The Sampler Platter: A Little Bit of Everything

by Susan Skylark

Once Upon an Ogre

  The frost-clad birch trees sparkled in the morning sun beneath a sky of clearest blue. Mariana’s horse galloped through the knee deep snow in close pursuit of her mistress while their two guards rode a respectful distance behind. The Lady Arana laughed in delight as her mare stirred up the fresh powder, nearly drunk with the beauty of the morning. Suddenly her horse reared and fought for her head and it took all of Arana’s skill to stay in her saddle. The mare quieted, her concerned handmaid rode up, and the guards were not far behind. Her eyes were wide with both fright and joy as she said, “guards, you will remain here. Mariana and I will ride in pursuit of the unicorn that unsettled my horse so.”

  The lead guard gaped, “but your father will have our heads if he finds we did not guard you continuously my lady!”

  She scoffed, “he shall have your heads all the sooner if I tell him you have been trifling with me. Do as I say or unpleasant rumors will soon reach his ears.”

  They exchanged a horrified look and nodded glumly as the two women turned their horses in pursuit of the vanished creature. As they pressed onwards Mariana gasped, “is it wise to try chasing down a unicorn on a horse when the creature shall certainly terrify our mounts?”

  Arana wore a supercilious smile and said, “have you a better idea? We shall certainly never catch such a beast afoot.” Mariana shook her head and rode on in silence. The creature had left a trail that was easily followed and Arana thought what fun it would be to catch such a creature. They were all but myth, to even see one was nearly unthinkable! They dashed on recklessly for half an hour when they topped a small rise and their horses went mad.

  An ogre stood in the clearing before them in all his ugly glory. He swept Arana out of her saddle and Mariana was borne away by her panicked horse. She certainly could not attempt a rescue on her own but neither could she abandon her captured mistress. She galloped back to the place where the guards waited and told them of what had befallen their mistress. They exchanged a grim look and then laughed mirthlessly, “it is bad enough to risk our lives at her father’s hands should he hear of this. We would most certainly die trying to rescue her from the ogre. We will take our chances in the wide world as must she; as of this moment we resign from his Lordship‘s service. Farewell.” With that, they turned their mounts and galloped quickly out of sight. Mariana stared after them in stunned silence before turning her horse and returning to see if there was aught that could be done for the Lady Arana.

  Her horse was exhausted by the time they reached that fateful clearing but Mariana’s heart leapt for joy to find her mistress not only alive but in the company of a fox rather than a great brute of an ogre. The fox looked up in surprise at the girl’s return and said, “you have come back then? I thought you were long fled in fear?”

  Mariana tried to suppress her boundless curiosity and said to the impertinent creature, “I only went to fetch my lady’s guards but alas, they are the ones fled in terror leaving me alone to return to my mistress’ aid.”

  The fox seemed greatly amused, “you returned alone to face an ogre?”

  The girl said simply, “there was no one else and I could not abandon her without at least trying to do something. Who are you and why do you keep my lady against her will?”

  The fox laughed, “it matters not who I am but know I have the ability to take whichever form I wish, including that of an ogre or even a dragon. I have a personal errand, which needs to be accomplished and I thought your lady might aid me. Would you take her place my daring handmaid if it might spare her life?”

  Mariana nodded grimly, “it would be my duty sir.”

  He looked to the bound Arana and asked, “what would you say to such an offer?”

  Arana scoffed, “unhand me you beastly creature. I care not what your powers are, my father will not stand for this. He will hunt you down and destroy you, as he will my cowardly guards. If such an offer were made, of course the foolish girl ought to take my place as is only proper. She is only a peasant after all.” T

  he fox gave her an unreadable look and returned his attention to the maidservant, “and why would you trade your life for hers?”

  Mariana said, “I returned intent on doing something to free my mistress even if it meant dying vainly in the process for it is far better to suffer such a fate than to try living the rest of my life knowing I might have spared her this fate and done nothing.”

  The fox nodded slightly, “and you my dear noblewoman? What do you say of such sympathies?”

  Arana smiled condescendingly, “it is the only right way for a creature of her standing to act of course. If a life must be sacrificed, the peasant should certainly die before the lady.”

  An unpleasant smile crossed the fox’s muzzle, “then I shall give her that chance. What say you my valiant handmaid? Will you take your lady’s place? If so, dismount and stand beside your lady. She will take your horse, ride off, and not look back. You shall face whatever fate I think should befall you. Are we agreed?” Mariana nodded grimly and dismounted.

  The fox freed Arana from her bonds and the arrogant girl walked proudly to the exhausted horse saying as she passed Mariana, “this is of course a regrettable situation for I shall have to find myself a new maidservant and it has ruined my morning ride. You have been an agreeable though not irreplaceable companion. I shall perhaps write a letter of condolence to your family.” Without another word, she mounted the horse and rode swiftly away.

  Mariana watched her go with a combination of astonishment and consternation, wondering how all her years of devoted service could mean so little. She turned her gaze once more upon the fox who said, “your mistress is certainly a cold fish, however did you come into her service?”

  Mariana wondered why she was not terrified by the strange creature before her, but all she felt was a great curiosity. She said, “her father is a great lord and his men happened upon my father and I six years ago in the marketplace when I was only twelve. I was about the same age as the lady and they must have thought me an appropriate companion and servant for her ladyship, for not long after one of her father’s servants arrived to collect me and ever since I have served her as handmaiden and dearest companion though it seems the latter was a misconception on my part. At least my family earned a handsome commission for my service. Now what would you have of me sir?”

  The fox laughed merrily and said, “please call me Aric. As I said, I am on a special errand for my master and am in great need of your assistance. You need not come if you do not wish it but I think it will be greatly to your benefit if you do.”

  She laughed, “I thought I was your prisoner?”

  He smiled and said, “I was only trying to see what kind of a woman your lady was and she certainly disappointed me. Will you come?”

  She smiled and said, “my curiosity shall kill me if I do not.”

  She gasped as suddenly a great green dragon sat before her and took her gently up into his great claws saying, “forgive the uncanny mode of transportation but it is the quickest way to reach our destination.”

  He leapt into the air and soon they were well beyond the lands in which Mariana had spent her entire life and into country completely unknown where anything might happen. They flew on for the rest of the day and as night was falling landed in a great field well away from any place where men might frequent. The dragon set down his prize and suddenly a tall horse stood before Mariana. She smiled and crawled into the saddle at the strange creature’s behest. They rode on until they reached the gates of a bustling city well after dark. The guards paid them no heed as they rode past and turned down a vacant alley.

  The horse became a man clad in black and silver livery; he bowed deeply to Mariana who giggled in delight. He said, “if you shall follow me my dear and say nothing to anyone of my strange proclivities I would be most grateful.” They came to the gates of a beautiful castle in the midst
of the great city; the guards bowed and let the pair pass unhindered. The man asked of one of the guards, “is the Prince about?”

  The guard shook his head and said, “no sir, he has gone to visit his aunt and will not be back until tomorrow afternoon at the earliest.”

  The man nodded saying, “very well, we shall await his return. Come my dear.” He gave her into the keeping of a matronly woman saying, “the Prince shall be very eager to make her acquaintance on the morrow. Make sure she is presentable.” He bowed deeply in farewell and vanished into the castle. The girl was hustled off by the servant to a much appreciated bath and supper all the while wondering if this were all some strange dream.

  Aric came to fetch her in the mid-afternoon saying, “you look absolutely stunning my dear. The Prince Laver is quite eager to make your acquaintance. Do not be afraid but I doubt that shall be a problem with your courage.” She blushed and he smiled warmly as he led her to the Prince’s sitting room. He announced her and she bowed deeply. The Prince studied her as he might some rare and beautiful beast that might at any moment take flight in fear, never again to be glimpsed by mortal man.

  He asked of Aric, “this then is the lady of whom you have spoken so highly?”

  She blushed crimson as Aric said, “it is certainly she. I will withdraw and allow you to introduce yourself.”

  The Prince smiled warmly at his dearest friend and confidant and after the door shut quietly the Prince approached Mariana and said, “welcome to Celedon my lady, it is not often such beauty graces our courts. Tell me only your name and neither your country nor your history; we shall attend to those details at a later time.”

  She smiled coyly and said, “I am called Mariana my lord.”

  He smiled slightly and said, “please call me Laver.” She blushed all the more but nodded in acceptance. He motioned for her to seat herself at a small table where tea and snacks were waiting and after she was comfortable he said, “you are probably wondering what all the fuss is about. I sent Aric on a desperate quest and I hope he has succeeded, for by my father’s proclamation I must wed soon and I have found no one thus far who would make a suitable wife and Queen.”

  She paled and said, “me?”

  He laughed warmly, “nothing is yet official but I have high hopes. Let us get to know one another and tonight you shall be my escort at the ball my father is holding in hopes of enticing me to fall in love via the fine and seductive art of dancing.”

  She asked, “why must you marry so swiftly?”

  Laver said, “Aric has spent nearly a year in search of a suitable bride and that is the time my father has given me to find a proper wife. He wishes to pass the throne on while still healthy enough to do so and the deadline comes swiftly.”

  She said, “why do you not wish to know my background?”

  He laughed, “I do not wish to be biased one way or another. I wish only to judge you on the person that you are, not from whence you have come. After all, what does that matter in the end? You are at least familiar with court functions and manners I hope?”

  She laughed, “sadly I am well acquainted with such things.”

  He nodded and said seriously, “you shall desperately need them in the coming days. The single ladies of the court and their mothers are eager to see me properly married to one of their number and they will try to tear apart an outsider such as yourself, especially if it seems you have won my favor. Are you ready for such an onslaught?”

  She nodded grimly, “I was ready to face an ogre a day gone, I think a few finely clad lions and wolves will be nothing compared to that. Who is Aric?”

  The Prince smiled and said, “when and if we are wed, then I shall reveal his secret but until then you must be patient.”

  She bowed her head in agreement and they passed a lovely hour before both were called away by their respective servants to prepare for the ball. Mariana had primped and dressed her mistress countless times but it was quite a different matter having the same done for you. She sat patiently and did as she was bidden and soon was deemed ready for the evening’s entertainments. A knock sounded upon the door and Aric stood without, waiting to escort her to the ball. He was resplendent in an outfit that seemed part livery and part soldier’s uniform. A great smile lit his face upon sighting her, he bowed deeply, and offered her his arm. Together they made their way to the evening’s extravaganza.

  She whispered quietly glancing ruefully at the sword on his hip, “are you sent to protect me from the jealous ladies of the court rumored to be prowling about thirsty for blood?”

  He laughed, “if only it were that easy my lady, alas you must defend yourself on that front. I hope it is only decorative but at the last end of need it shall certainly be used in defense of the Prince’s life. But come, there are more subtle though no less deadly dangers that you must brave this night. I myself would prefer an honest duel to the gauntlet of social intercourse that lies before you.” She gave him a nervous but determined smile and he laughed all the more. They entered the grand ballroom and were announced as ‘the Lord Aric and the Lady Mariana.’ She gave him a questioning look and he whispered saying, “I am no more a lord than you are a proper lady but none here shall question the title if we act the part.”

  She nodded in understanding and steeled herself for the coming debacle. At all previous court functions she had been nothing more than the Lady’s silent companion and attendant but she had long practice in watching her mistress in the subtle and venial ways of the aristocracy in such matters and knew they could wield their tongues as a master swordsman could his blade. He walked with her across the great floor inlaid with an intricate design of many colored tiles to the small flock of courtiers awaiting the beginning of the festivities. A servant brought her a glass of some expensive wine and Aric bowed deeply as he excused himself to attend to other errands on the Prince’s behalf. She smiled gratefully and prepared to be left alone, a sheep among wolves. A dozen hard faced women of middle age with arrogant eyes and fake smiles looked over the unknown and pathetically alone young woman placed before them. Mariana felt like a baitfish in the midst of a school of pike. The elder women studied her silently for a few moments and easily wrote her off as any sort of real competition to their daughters. Perhaps she was some distant relative of the Prince’s and his man had escorted her in simply out of regard for her position in the family. It could not possibly be that the Prince found any interest in such a plain and vulgar sort of girl.

  The smiles of the older women deepened, as if they were a flock of vultures scenting a rotten carcass. They withdrew into a close bunch and spoke in eager whispers; Mariana could not hear the words but she had no doubt as to the subject. The elder women being content with their gossip, the younger felt free to approach the strange competitor for the Prince’s affections. The alpha female approached boldly and minded Mariana of a swan alighting on its own lake, certain that no lesser fowl would dare interfere with or defy the queen of the pond. A gaggle of giggling and sneering girls bedecked in gaudy gowns and adorned with far too much make-up followed close upon her heels and engulfed Mariana in a covey of whispers and silent laughter. “Who might you be?” intoned the swan in a voice so high it nearly screeched, “I am Regina, the eldest daughter of Lord Bronzewell, the greatest lord in Celedon.”

  Mariana bowed as deeply as the surrounding flock allowed saying, “I am Mariana of Silveria, lately of the house of Lord Gorze.”

  “You have a very strange way of going about an introduction,” sneered the swan and the covey snickered wildly in the background like a pack of hyenas.

  Mariana grinned impishly and said, “it is all I can say at the moment. Perhaps I shall tell you more one day when we know each other better.”

  The swan gasped, “you have quite an impudent manner about you girl. I would watch my tongue if I were you. It would not do to upset me else my father would be most displeased
and perhaps worse, the wrath of the Queen of Celedon might soon come upon you.”

  Mariana bowed slightly and said, “I meant no harm my lady, I merely spoke the truth of the matter.”

  Regina sighed, “you are new to Celedon and perhaps do not know how to act properly in the company of your betters. If your visit is of any great duration I hope you soon learn some restraint. Such wild tongues are found in only the basest of the peasantry.”

  Mariana said, “and how stands the Prince’s pursuit of a wife?”

  Regina cooed, “this ball is a mere formality of course, but he must make every show of effort if only to appease the commoners. He has but two weeks left in which to announce his future bride and then the wedding and coronation will soon follow. I already have my dress prepared for that most glorious day. You are perhaps a visiting cousin come to enjoy the festivities?”

  Mariana smiled and said, “something like that I suppose. The Prince has already proposed to you then?”

  Regina shook her head derisively and said, “not officially but the match has been in place since the day after my birth. My father assures me that neither the King nor the Prince dare think differently but the peasants and lesser lords must be satisfied by the charade of the past year. The Prince has traveled extensively through the Kingdom interviewing every available woman from the lowest barmaid to the greatest of ladies; countless noble daughters of foreign birth have paraded through the court in the last year and perhaps you are even the least of these if you are of noble birth at all. It is vexing perhaps but it keeps the hopes of the peasants alive and peace with the surrounding nations all the same. Are you staying long then in Celedon?”

  Mariana said, “I know not the length of my stay. I am only just arrived and for all of my knowledge may be off on the morrow.”

  Regina smiled coldly and said, “that would be considered wisdom on your part.”

  Mariana said, “can the Prince find none to please him in all the country and even among the daughters of other nations? What of these your followers?”

  A wild look entered her eyes like that of a she wolf scenting some intruder upon her territory and Regina said coldly, “none of these flitting sparrows has any trait half as pleasing as the least of mine nor would they threaten their own privileged positions by such an intrusion; as I said, it is mere show that the Prince seeks elsewhere for affection when my own is certainly his.”

  Mariana nodded and said, “I meant no disrespect I was only trying to gauge the situation. Who is this Lord Aric?”

  Regina laughed superfluously and said, “you should know more of him than I, after all it was upon his arm that you entered the room and he who escorted you to Celedon.”

  Mariana laughed, “I know little of him save that he seems the Prince’s dearest friend and most faithful servant.”

  Regina yawned expansively and fanned herself with the appropriate instrument saying, “I forget where he comes from, some little land that no one had ever heard of I suppose. He has been the Prince’s companion and right hand man since they were little more than boys. They are often about the country together or the man is ever off on some errand for his Majesty the Prince. Why did he escort you in?”

  Mariana shrugged, “otherwise I would have been alone in a strange country.”

  Regina laughed haughtily, “it is presumptuous to come begging in a place where one is not known nor expected.”

  Mariana smiled slightly and said, “I suppose you must be right.” Their conversation was cut short by the announcement that the Prince himself had come and Regina and all her retinue began cheering and clapping and nearly fainting with exhilaration. The excitement died down, some minor announcements were made, and then the dance began in earnest.

  The Prince made his round of all the nobles and gave his greetings and appreciation for their presence before he sought out Regina for the first dance. He then studiously made his way through each of the girls in her retinue before finally, halfway through the evening he finally approached Mariana who shyly took his hand as he led her to the floor. “You keep trying to lead,” laughed the Prince as she stumbled in her steps.

  She smiled and said, “forgive me Highness but I have ever had to play the part of the gentleman that another lady might practice. I have never formally danced myself.”

  He gave her a teasing grin and said, “then I will try my best to accommodate you but we both cannot lead.” Their dance was perhaps the clumsiest of the evening but the one he enjoyed the most. Regina and her squadron enjoyed it immensely for completely different reasons. The Prince then cordially danced with each of the young ladies present before he asked again to dance with any of his previous partners. Once he had made his round of all the young women, he then took Mariana again to the floor much to Regina’s frustration but she was the next he stepped out with. She seemed a little pacified but her feathers were quite ruffled by the snub as she saw it. She tried to calm herself by saying it was merely the Prince being polite to his awkward young cousin, but her glares in Mariana’s direction lost little of their heat. Every young person present saw Regina’s great dislike for the handsome young stranger and all kept well away lest they also should garner her antipathy thus Mariana spent much of the evening standing awkwardly off to one side all by herself.

  After half an hour of solitude in the midst of the great throng, someone finally took pity on the poor girl and engaged her in conversation. “Welcome to Celedon,” said the stranger politely, “I am sorry the hospitality of the court is quite lacking and perhaps my presence will only make it worse.” He wore an amused smile and she immediately felt towards him as she might towards a favorite uncle. The man was in his middle years and though not handsome, the humor and wisdom in his eyes leant much to his appearance. She recognized the uniform as that of the Brethren, having seen the Brethren’s Advisor to the King of Silveria on her frequent visits to court accompanying the Lady Arana. She had never spoken with the man, being only a servant and he an Advisor to the King, but he had gained her respect nonetheless and his counterpart in Celedon seemed no less likely to do the same.

  Mariana smiled gratefully and said, “it has been a lonely evening. I have angered the queen bee and the hive dares not cross her. She is quite possessive of one not yet her own.”

  The man smiled, “you have assessed the situation perfectly my lady though you are quite new to Celedon. Her father is the most powerful man in Celedon save the King himself, and he is quite eager to have the Prince as a son-in-law and his daughter a Queen. The King would find the union most expedient but has graciously allowed the boy to choose his own bride but has given him only a year in which to do so else the King shall choose for him. I do not envy the boy his place. If he weds Regina I fear his father-in-law and wife shall make his life miserable but if he refuses and weds someone else, he will have earned himself a terrible enemy. Either way, his reign will not begin as easily as his father might hope.”

  Mariana sighed, “is there naught that can be done?”

  The man smiled, “the Prince is not completely alone. Lord Bronzewell is powerful but the lesser lords tend to flock together in opposition and are able to balance his stubbornness. Lord Aric is as faithful and skilled a man as anyone could wish to have at one’s side. The Brethren shall certainly stand behind a King who shall be as just and wise as the Prince seems likely to be. I only pray that he chooses a good woman to rule beside him who lacks neither sense nor courage for he certainly shall need both in the natal days of his reign.”

  Mariana smiled deeply, “you seem quite fond of the Prince.”

  The man shared her smile saying, “I was Advisor to the King when Laver’s father was a boy. I have watched both grow into fine men, strong but gentle, wise and merciful. How did you become embroiled in such schemes?”

  She laughed, “it is a short but strange tale. One moment I was chasing after my lady in the woods of Sil
veria, for I was but a handmaiden to a noble’s daughter only a few days gone, and the next I was off to Celedon and find myself here at the Prince’s bidding.”

  A slight, knowing smile touched the man’s lips as he spoke nonchalantly, “I had thought the Prince seemed to be enjoying his dance with you a bit more than with any of the others with whom he has graced the floor though your steps were far from perfect.” She blushed crimson at his mention of her faulty footwork or perhaps he had hit the mark where the Prince was involved. He laughed, “fear not lady, for it is not your skill at dancing that shall win the boy’s heart if such be the case. You would make a far better Queen than others I can think of, but we must part company for your suitor calls again.” She blushed crimson once more but could not help but smile in delight as the Prince once again sought her hand.

  As they whirled about the floor the Prince remarked, “I see you have met Garon, he is an honorable man and my father’s favorite Advisor though many in the court think he listens too closely to his advice.”

  She laughed, “and what is your opinion of the matter.”

  He smiled, “I wish all my future advisors were more like him. His advice is not always pleasant to listen to but it is always wise and often necessary. He is never obsequious nor rude and always tells the absolute truth about everything even if it is to his own disadvantage.”

  She smiled deeply and her eyes twinkled with joy, “then I think he will find his future King an excellent lord to advise.”

  He said nothing but his own smile deepened. He left her then as the dance ended and took a younger daughter of an obscure lord to the floor much to Regina’s chagrin Ill at ease and frustrated, she and her retinue again surrounded the hapless Mariana and Regina scoffed, “becoming a favorite of the Prince I see. I would refuse him should he ask you to dance again. His ruse of pandering to the hopes of the commoners has gone too far and I shall certainly apprise him of his error when next we dance. I see you also keep company with that fool from Astoria, which does nothing but deepen the social grave you have already begun. Heed well my words or your future in Celedon shall be short and miserable.”

  Mariana said firmly, “I shall dance with whom I please and keep company with those whom I choose. As all others seemed indifferent, I was happy to share a few moments of idle conversation with such a learned man. Do not threaten me for I have nothing to fear from the likes of you.”

  Regina smiled viciously and said, “we shall certainly see.” She and her flock swept gracefully away like birds blown with the wind.

  The Lord Aric was then at her elbow and said, “I shall escort you from the ball if you would wish it.” Mariana gave him a grateful smile and would have hugged him had it been appropriate. They left then and ere he left her in her chambers he said grimly, “Regina will have the throne no matter what. I fear you have garnered her enmity and she will not rest until she is assured of the crown. She may use means less than scrupulous to ensure her favor with the Prince. Be cautious in the coming days for your very life may depend upon it.”

  She nodded in agreement and bid him goodnight as he disappeared down the corridor leaving her to wonder what exactly it was he feared. She had witnessed much venom between warring factions at court but never had she considered that some might sink to murder and treason to accomplish their goals but then her mistress was the daughter of a relatively minor country lord and not one high in the circles of power, rich though he was. The higher the circles in which one was wont to be found, the greater the power to be lost or won thus the more desperate the means to gain or keep it. An unconscious shudder ran down her spine to find herself in so precarious a position, but the Prince needed her and not that long ago she had been willing to face down an ogre barehanded. What was this to that? She laughed, the ogre would at least offer a fair fight; with this enemy none could tell how she might wage her vicious war.

  After the ball, in the small hours of the morning, the King called his son to his chambers for a private talk. The King sighed, “you have earned the wroth of the entire Bronzewell clan this night my son. I promised you the chance to choose your own bride and you know well the price you might pay should you choose other than the Lady Regina.”

  Laver laughed, “there is also a grim price should I choose that lady as my bride as well. I would rather face the wrath of the entire clan than unite my soul with such as she.”

  The King asked curiously, “you have then another lady in mind?”

  The Prince smiled with his whole heart plain upon his face, “you perhaps noticed the worst dancer amongst my many partners?”

  The King smiled, “quite a fetching creature if not quite so refined a dancer. Who is she?”

  The Prince smiled, “I know only her name and asked that she not tell me her history that it might not mar my judgment. I will continue in the gauntlet of festivities you have planned in the next fortnight but I doubt I shall change my mind.”

  The King shook his head, “I would not show too much interest in the girl lest you draw ill-luck upon her ere you are wed.” T

  he Prince’s face turned grim as he thought what might befall her at the hands of a jealous rival. He said, “Aric shall guard her well.”

  The King said, “I hope you know what you are doing but you have my full support whomever you choose.”

  Regina retired to her chambers and her retinue cowered against the far wall as she paced obsessively back and forth and muttered harshly to herself. What was she to do with the little usurper? The wench might yet ruin everything! Men were such fickle creatures at times. Just wait until she had him well in hand and he would never dare defy her again. But what to do about the fiendish little imp? Perhaps she could be threatened or frightened into flight and failing that she could always be made to quietly disappear. Her father had resources that could see to either situation. She smiled viciously, the next few weeks might prove to be far more interesting than she had at first dreamed. Her ladies laughed nervously for they knew well that that particular smile did not portend well for the one who inspired it. Regina shouted for pen and paper and sat down immediately to write the needed directives. She smiled terribly, the next few weeks would be quite amusing indeed!

  Mariana woke the next morning to find that a lovely letter had been slipped under her door. It was from Regina and it graciously requested her presence at tea that afternoon. Mariana shook her head wondering what the jealous schemer was up to. She prepared for the day and after a light breakfast in her rooms, she made her way down to the gardens where she might walk and think in peace. It was a pleasant morning and the castle seemed quite abandoned, after the late night endured by many of its residents, it was no surprise that many were still abed. She found the solitude delightful after the lonely and distant though cloying crowd of the night before. A red breasted thrush singing in a berry bush drew her gaze and it took her a moment to realize he was trying to catch her eye. Once he had her attention he whispered in the familiar voice of Aric, “be wary, for the Lady Regina was up late last night and sent many letters which I doubt not contain instructions for various schemes against yourself. Be on your guard and also do not be surprised if the Prince pays you little heed in the coming days for he wishes no harm to come to you.”

  She nodded grimly and asked, “then what should I do?”

  He said, “be very careful, especially in going anywhere alone or in company only with Regina and her ladies.”

  Mariana grinned, “I am invited to tea this afternoon.”

  The bird seemed to smile, “you must not refuse her but go not alone.”

  Mariana laughed, “I know just who to invite.” He resumed his song and she continued on her way as if nothing more of interest had passed than a quick study of a common garden bird. She walked a while longer in the gardens and then sought out Garon.

  She found him in the stables tending to a rather plain looking horse. He smile
d as she entered and said, “this is certainly a strange place to find a lady.”

  She laughed, “and who is to say that I am a lady? I have been invited to tea with the Lady Regina and do not wish to go alone.”

  He laughed, “I would love to attend you but I fear my presence would be rather awkward. You are wise to take such a precaution, however. I shall certainly come though the entire castle think it odd.”

  She grinned from ear to ear and actually began to look forward to the whole tedious affair. They arrived promptly on time and Regina was quite hard pressed to maintain a pleasant countenance when she saw her guest’s guest. Regina smiled grimly saying, “this is quite an unexpected surprise. I was certain it would be a ladies only affair but I am sure your escort is quite welcome as well. Please come in.” The hour passed rather tediously as Regina dared not threaten the little usurper or try worse with such a witness. They politely excused themselves and the ladies drew a great sigh of relief and began to plot anew.

  As they walked companionably down the corridor Garon said, “they were quite put out by my presence. I think you are wise to be cautious. I will do what I can to aid you in this awkward and dangerous time, if you need help all you need do is ask.” He bowed deeply and vanished down a side corridor. She shuddered to think what the girl could be capable of that everyone seemed intent on warning her this day. She went to the library and tried to read for the rest of the day but her mind was too busy to concentrate on her book.

  Regina wrote several threatening letters all promising terrible things should the girl not withdraw immediately from Celedon, but each time she received no reply and the impertinent girl seemed unaffected by the whole scheme. She could not get the girl alone to threaten personally nor would written threats avail her. The one bright spot was that at least the Prince seldom even looked in the creature’s direction and he spent much more time in Regina’s company. Was he coming to his senses or was he surreptitiously protecting the wench? The days would have been quite lonely save that Aric and Garon seemed to turn up quite frequently to keep company with Mariana for a few hours which were the only bright points in the days that followed though they were full of feasting, dancing, various contests, and endless festivities that the Prince might find himself a suitable bride amongst the many eligible guests.

  Aric quite often appeared in other than human guise, sometimes as a lizard upon the wall or perhaps as a dog before the fire in the library. It seemed he was never far off and if he was not in sight, Garon seemed to be within an easy distance. As the days passed, Regina felt the Prince was not being as genuine towards her as she thought he must be if he were truly courting her and his frequent, furtive glances in the direction of that wretched stranger certainly gave away the ruse. The day was fast approaching when he would make his announcement and Regina was becoming quite certain that the fortunate lady would not be herself. Something must certainly be done to prevent such a tragedy. One night she garbed herself and two faithful guards as peasants and snuck from the castle in high hopes of ending the little competition once and for all.

  The days passed slowly for Mariana and she might have thought the Prince had lost all regard for her save for Aric’s continual presence and the quick, hopeful glances he occasionally cast her way. She might have lost her wariness regarding Regina also had she not ever seen the growing vitriol in the woman’s eyes. Things must soon come to a head or Regina might soon burst asunder in frustration. But the days passed and nothing seemed to happen. The threatening letters ceased and the girl virtually ignored Mariana. Finally the morning of the annunciation day arrived and Mariana hoped fervently that come evening she would be free of this wretched limbo one way or another. Regina also looked forward to this evening for the Prince would be hers one way or another. Should he choose correctly the little minx had nothing to worry about should she leave Celedon immediately in shame, but should he choose poorly her very life would be forfeit and she would gain the Prince by default. She had made certain arrangements with certain people of an evil and sneaky tendency that would ensure things would go her way one way or another. She had not overlooked the constant watchfulness of both Aric and Garon, and both might well suffer the same fate as that wretched girl.

  The day drug on as the fateful night made its weary way to fulfillment. Finally all gathered in the castle’s great courtyard under the first stars of evening to hear what the Prince had to say upon this great and momentous occasion. The people loved their King and also admired his son. Many dreaded his choice of bride but no few girls were desperate with curiosity to know if they might not be the One. The eligible young ladies formed a line facing the eager audience and the Prince paced before them, occasionally exchanging a word with one of their number who would then smile sadly and quietly withdraw or sometimes ran weeping from the stage. Finally only two remained: Mariana and Regina. The audience waited in epic silence as the Prince made his final choice. He approached Mariana and Regina smiled triumphantly but her exultation turned to rage as he took Mariana’s hand in his and smiled gently. The temerity of the man! But his foolishness would not last. She raised her eyes, met the gaze of several plainly clad men set well back among the watching crowd, and nodded grimly. They drew bows from beneath their voluminous cloaks and before anyone noticed, they had loosed several arrows felling not only Mariana but also Garon and Aric.

  The Prince had his sword out and stood grimly over the struggling form of his would-be bride as she fought for each breath; the guards were trying to wade through the panic stricken crowd to reach the assassins but were making little progress. Regina’s eyes gleamed in dark glee as she saw her dreams coming true. A great thrashing nose and an equine scream of rage came from the stable as a plain looking gelding broke out of his stall and forced his way to the side of his stricken master. Garon clutched weakly at the arrow planted firmly in his chest and shooed away the desperate attentions of the frantic unicorn saying, “forget me you great hearted beast! See to the girl, the entire future of Celedon rests upon her shoulders. Hers is the life you must spare!” The creature whinnied pathetically but hurried to the side of the stricken woman. He nuzzled her gently, his knees buckled, and he vanished before he hit the ground.

  Mariana put a hand weakly to her head and exchanged a horrified and astonished look with the Prince who yet stood protectively over her. Regina watched the noble beast give his life for that of the dying girl and something snapped within her. Her assassins were now either fled or captured by the guards and she alone remained to exact revenge for her ruined aspirations. If she could not have the Prince, no one would. She drew a dagger from a hidden pocket and leapt upon the Prince who was still mesmerized by the sudden healing of his beloved. Aric had taken an arrow in the shoulder and though wounded, he was not about to abandon his friend to the unseen wrath of Regina. He leapt between the lioness and her prey and they grappled for control of the knife. Regina gained full control of the blade long enough to slash her opponent across the face but in so doing he moved his arm to block the blow and she stabbed herself in the palm. She laughed and cried as she saw both her final triumph and her imminent doom. The blade was poisoned and the least injury would soon prove fatal. Aric already lay unmoving and his breathing slowed and ultimately stopped as the Prince and Mariana looked on in horror. Regina stared triumphantly at the corpse for a moment, glared upon the Prince and Mariana, and then toppled over herself with blankly staring eyes.

  Mariana’s eyes were clouded with tears as she crawled to the side of Garon who lay nearly as still as Aric. “What happened?” gasped she, “why am I still alive?”

  Garon smiled through the pain and said, “a unicorn’s greatest gift my dear. Your life is far more dear to the future of Celedon than my own. May the Master ride with you…” He trailed off and said no more. Mariana turned away and the tears overflowed from her eyes and Laver’s gentle arms were there to comfort her. He wept as
much as she for the loss of such dear and noble friends.

  The country was in uproar at the near disaster but quite pleased with their future Queen. Lord Bronzewell was so embarrassed by the antics of his daughter that he could do nothing but retire to his country estates and promote his son to his place which greatly eased the transition of the Kingship as the boy was far less proud and demanding than his father. Mariana and Laver were soon married and the coronation followed immediately after. A new Advisor to the King was sent from Astoria and he was eagerly welcomed by one and all, especially after the tale of Garon’s sacrifice on behalf of their beloved Queen. Long did Laver rule his people justly and wisely with his Queen ever at his side. He told her what he could of Aric’s mysterious ways though even he knew little enough of them. They had first met when the young Laver paid a visit to his father’s hawks. His most valuable specimen was a rare creature found only in the far north and only a fledgling. The talkative boy soon gained the attention of the young bird and they chattered endlessly back and forth. The bird soon came to realize it was a thinking creature and not simply a bird and soon the boy discovered this as well. The bird might have forever remained naught but a bird had not the boy awakened the wiser part of its mind.

  A friendship soon developed and the bird soon learned he also had the strange talent of shifting forms. Ever grateful, the bird swore his life to protect that of the boy. To all others he was but a bird, but to the boy he was his dearest friend. One day, when the hawk was old enough to fly, he escaped upon a hunting trip. Not long after, Lord Aric arrived and soon gained the friendship of the young prince. After, the two were rarely seen apart. Laver urged his friend to return north to his people but Aric refused, saying he knew nothing of his own people and was honor bound to remain with his friend. So it was that Laver trusted no one else with the business of finding him a suitable wife at which quest he succeeded handsomely much to the unending joy of Laver, Mariana, and all of Celedon.