Sins of Basilia (Shrouded Thrones Book 4)

by Jeanne Hardt

  “Would you like to hold her?”

  Olivia breathed heavily, simply contemplating the idea, but something compelled her to accept Rosalie’s offer. “She knows me not, even so, I would very much like to.”

  Rosalie stood and walked around the table to Olivia, then carefully lowered the baby into her arms.

  To Olivia’s good fortune, Olive did not cry, but rather laid her head on her shoulder, just as she had her mother’s. Olivia inhaled her sweet scent, then kissed her tiny head. Her heart wrenched, and the pain she thought she had begun to overcome came forth in abundance. Tears pooled, and she struggled to keep them from falling.

  “Forgive me,” she choked out, then stood and returned Olive to her mother. “It is too soon.”

  “My poor Olivia.” Rosalie passed Olive to Dane and embraced her. They held onto one another for several long minutes.

  No words were uttered, yet much was said. Her kind friend understood her heartache and shared her sorrow.

  “Thank you for understanding.” Olivia gave a final squeeze, then separated from her and headed for the door. “Your service to our realm is highly appreciated.” She faced Dane. “Your father would be proud of you.”

  “It is kind of you to say, Your Majesty.” He shuffled across the floor, picked up something from the counter, and carried it to her. “I believe these have always been your favorite.”

  She stared at the pastry in his hand—another reminder of Donovan and the many he had brought her with hopes of a kiss in return. “Yes. I have a weakness for sweets.” She took it from him, but did not taste it. “It is still warm.”

  “Fresh from the oven.” He smiled and bowed. “Next time you come, please, do not trouble yourself with knocking. The bakery door is always open.”

  “Very well.” She pushed out another smile, then quickly departed.

  She had accomplished what she had set out to do, but within the walls of the bakery, many ghosts remained. They had shown themselves and haunted her with painful memories.

  With the pastry in one hand, she raised the corner of her skirt with the other and hastened back to the castle, needing to once again feel the comfort of Sebastian’s embrace.

  The world had become entirely new—a place Sebastian scarcely recognized. He had visited every realm and knew them like the back of his hand, yet all had changed. Never again would he travel wherever he pleased. He was no longer a Basilian prince meant to rule one day as the peoples’ high king. All had been stripped from him.

  Somehow, he had to find peace in Padrida.

  It helped somewhat to have his mother and sisters close—especially now that he and his mother had made peace. More importantly, since Olivia had started behaving more like herself, it renewed his hope in their future.

  Aside from the never-ending grief over losing their daughter, he struggled to shed worries over Basilia and what Frederick might be doing to destroy it. Sebastian’s hands were tied, and he held firmly to a feeling of helplessness.

  He could do nothing to aid the Basilian people, or those in any other realm. Worse yet, he had no idea what to do with himself.

  Things could be worse. Of all the kingdoms in the lands, Padrida was by far the most beautiful and self-sufficient, not to mention, it had an exceptional climate. Even so, having Padrida once again cut off from the outside world, being a warrior seemed meaningless. As much as he enjoyed swordplay with Jonah, Sebastian believed he would be of better use in some other capacity.

  But what?

  He had gone to the great hall to wait for Olivia’s return and found himself pacing—pondering his dilemma.

  He stopped in the center of the room and gazed upward. “What is my purpose now?”

  Rapid footsteps approached, and he nearly fell backward when Olivia ran into his embrace. “Good heavens,” he said with a laugh, but immediately sobered. Olivia cuddled into him and silent tears trickled down her cheeks.

  She had been content when she had left him earlier, yet it appeared her visit with Rosalie had not gone well.

  “My love,” he whispered. “I am so sorry. Did Rosalie refuse your apology?”

  She gradually lifted her head and looked at him. “Rosalie and I have made amends, but I foolishly held little Olive. The feel of her in my arms shot a pain into my heart that will not dissipate.” Her chin quivered. “I miss Amina.”

  He tightened his hold on her. “As do I. As much as I am comforted in the reassurance of your vision, it does not dismiss the emptiness caused by her absence.”

  Olivia took a large breath and eased out of his grasp. “It is impossible to be at peace. Still, I know I must. Trusting God is not easy, but I have to be strong to lead our people.”

  “I will help you in any way I can.” He took her hand and led her to the chaise, then sat and pulled her close. “Tell me about your visit.”

  She wiped her eyes and sat a bit more upright. “Before I held the baby, all went well with Rosalie. I even took the opportunity to speak with Dane regarding the grumbling in the kingdom. Fear weighs heavy. There are those who believe we will be attacked again. I feel assured it will not happen. Was it wrong of me to insist the men return to their labors and no longer train to fight?”

  “Your intuitions are generally accurate. And, I agree with you that the men of Padrida will do better service to the realm by tending their crops and livestock, and seeing to their families. However, if the men are so uneasy, perhaps you should encourage them to continue their swordplay. Not as earnestly as before, or for such long hours, but merely to maintain what they have already learned. They can hone their skills when their other labors are completed for the day. Should the need to fight arise again, they will feel more confidently prepared.”

  Her eyes searched his face. “You are so wise. When Father decreed we should return to our old ways, I should have known it was impossible to fully revert to things as they were. We have been exposed to the outside world and the dangers it holds. I cannot expect Padrida to be as it was, when no one knew of our existence.” She cuddled against him. “I will share your suggestion tonight at the evening meal. Perhaps it will help to ease the worried mumblings in the realm. I want our people to feel confident in their futures.”

  He kissed the top of her head. “Truthfully, I was just contemplating my own future. I serve little use here.”

  Her head drew back, and she questioned with her eyes. “You are of great use to me. Your counsel and support are invaluable.”

  “And yet, that takes little of my time each day.” He held his hands up and turned them over, studying them. For a man, they were much too soft. “I cannot be idle. I must find a way to be productive.”

  She cupped her hands around his. “I feel your eagerness, but are you not able to find contentment here in the castle?”

  “Day in and day out?” He shook his head. “I would go mad. Please understand…I no longer crave adventure, merely purpose. Adding to my grief over Amina, my thoughts are constantly plagued with worries over Frederick and Angeline and how they are treating the people of Basilia. I have heard my mother cry for Estelle and Becca—fearing for their safety. They, too, trouble my mind. It is impossible to dismiss my concerns, and if I have nothing to do to fill the hours of the day, I will spend even more time sickened with worry.”

  She caressed his fingers. “I understand. I feel more at ease when I am working to help others achieve contentment.” She donned the most beautiful smile. “Last night, in your arms, all my worries drifted away. But we cannot spend every second of the day entwined.”

  “No.” He chuckled, and it actually felt good. “Even so, I happily anticipate all our nights together.”

  “So…there is no need to worry over the hours in darkness, but what do you desire of your days? Padrida may not be as vast as the outside world, yet it offers much. Would you like to build something, or perhaps teach your abundant skills to the youth? If we are to encourage continued swordplay, the young men would do well to learn from you.”


  He contemplated her suggestions, though something else came to mind. “I will continue training with Jonah—mostly because I enjoy the vigorous activity. Still, I want to do more than what I was taught while growing up to become a king. Oddly, I have an aching desire to learn how to make things grow.”

  “You wish to farm?” She nearly laughed, but he was relieved when she did not.

  He folded his arms over his chest. “Can a prince not sow grain?”

  “A prince can do whatever he wishes. Even so, I find it unusual that you want to toil in the fields. It is not easy by any means.”

  “Good. I need to be challenged.” His heart beat a little faster. “Perhaps your people would look kindlier upon me if I contribute to the realm.” He took a deep breath, stood, then turned and faced her. “In Basilia, there are thousands of people, and I never made an attempt to know them all, realizing its impossibility. Here, there is no reason why I should not become acquainted with everyone. Man, woman, and child. You once told me the names and trades of every person here. Sadly, I retained few.”

  “It is not surprising that you forgot them. This has always been my home, and I have spent years in their company.”

  “And now, Padrida is my home.” He squared his jaw. “I wish to farm. In doing so, I hope to acquaint myself with every commoner. I would like to become more familiar with them than just placing names to their faces.”

  “Very well.” She rose to her feet and linked her arm into his. “If that is where you heart is leading you, I will take you to Baylor. He is a good man and exceptional farmer. I believe he would appreciate the help. Reginald used to work at his side, and since his death, I am quite certain Baylor has suffered from his absence in many ways.”

  “I suppose familiarizing myself with Baylor is a prime place to start. I was not exactly gentle with him when searching for Donovan. I practically accused him of hiding the man.”

  Olivia shuddered. “As I told Dane, Donovan is a phantom. He alone orchestrated the abduction of our daughter. Justine’s family is not to blame.”

  “I am well aware, and I will gladly make amends with all of them. I only pray they hold no hostility toward me. If I had not come to Padrida, Reginald would still be alive.” He tightened his fists. “God, how I hate all that has happened because of me!”

  “Hush.” She placed a hand to his mouth. “Have we not learned that we accomplish nothing by chastising ourselves for the choices we made? All is as it was meant to be. Do not forget, we must trust in God and move forward. We cannot go back and change what we have done.”

  He pulled her into an embrace and simply held her. They shared a common pain that need not be spoken. If they could change anything at all, Amina would be with them.

  After several long minutes, Olivia looked up and warmly smiled. “Our love will see us through.”

  He nodded, then caught sight of Delana from the corner of his eye. She stood in the hallway, craning her neck and watching them.

  He gestured toward her. “We are no longer alone.”

  Olivia spun in his grasp and faced where he had indicated. Delana crept toward them as if fearing reprimand for her interruption.

  Olivia extended her hand. “Please, come join us.”

  Delana’s expression transformed into elation, and she rushed across the room. She stopped just short of them and looked from him to Olivia and back again. “Something has changed.”

  “Yes,” Olivia said. “I have realized my error in judgment. Can you forgive me for lashing out at you?”

  Delana surged forward and wrapped her arms around both of them. “Seeing the two of you happy together is what I have been praying for.” She gave an even harder squeeze, then stepped away.

  Sebastian laughed. “It would seem all has been forgiven.” He smoothed a hand down his sister’s long hair. “Tonight at the evening meal, we hope to put everyone’s fears at rest.”

  “Mother will be pleased. But…” She turned to Olivia. “Your mother has been abed for many days, and I believe she is more grief-stricken than ever. You should go to her.”

  “I will. There are many I have to see before the day’s end.” Olivia rested a hand on Sebastian’s arm. “I spoke with Rosalie and Dane in regard to Orman. You recall him, do you not?”

  “Yes.” The memory of the boy’s readiness to venture to Basilia stabbed deep. “I had promised him hopes of a Basilian bride one day, and yet I cannot fulfill my vow. I suppose I must make amends with him.”

  “You will be given every opportunity, if he accepts my proposal.”

  “And what might that be?”

  “Quirin needs an apprentice. I believe Orman could be a capable healer if trained properly. He has always been eager to learn.”

  Delana loudly cleared her throat. “Are you intending to bring another man into our home?” Every bit of joy disappeared from the girl.

  Olivia looked at her with pity. “He is seventeen and not quite a grown man. I assure you, he is kind and good-natured. Not someone to fear.”

  “Well, he had best keep his distance from me.” Delana jutted her chin. “If he is so eager to find a bride, he should seek one far from this castle.”

  Sebastian understood his sister’s concerns. Frederick had damaged her, and only time would heal her. “Orman is an excellent choice as apprentice. As for the issue that troubles you, Delana, Quirin will keep him occupied and he will have no opportunities to contemplate matrimony.”

  “Good. Then I will keep my distance from him.” She tossed her hair. “It would be wrong of me to take his mind from his studies.”

  Inwardly, Sebastian smiled. He had witnessed a glimmer of Delana’s former self. Though only twelve, she acted much older. If given the opportunity, Orman and she could become friends, but he feared his sister would remain too guarded to allow it to happen.

  Olivia glanced around the room as if she were lost, and the crease in her brow deepened.

  Sebastian rubbed up and down her arm. “I thought I had helped you feel better, but you seem even more distressed.”

  “My mind is spinning with all that must be done. I had best see to my mother, then venture to find Orman.”

  Delana’s mouth screwed together. “I hope he is as kind as you say. If you both believe him to be so, I will trust your judgment.” Her eyes widened. “I nearly forgot. That guard—Korvin—was searching for you. It might be important. He looked quite dismayed.” She quickly kissed Olivia’s cheek, then gave Sebastian a fast peck as well. “I must tell Catrice we no longer have to hide from Olivia.” Her cheeks turned crimson. “Forgive me for saying it, but I hope you understand.”

  “More than you realize,” Olivia laughed. “Go on now. I will see you again at the evening meal.”

  Delana hastened from the great hall as rapidly as she had entered.

  Sebastian grunted. “Korvin. I need to set that lovesick boy straight. I can only imagine why he seeks you out.”

  “Jealousy does not become you.” Olivia’s eyes narrowed. “Do not forget, you enlisted him to aid me.”

  “A foolish mistake.” He put an arm around her and guided her toward the hallway. “Go to your mother, and I will see to Korvin. He must come to terms that you are my wife and he will never have you.”

  “His feelings for me are simple infatuation. He poses no threat.”

  “Perhaps so, but it troubles me to have any man look at you as he does. He would be better served to place his eyes elsewhere.”

  Olivia nuzzled against his arm. “Be gentle with him. Please?”

  “Gentle, yet firm. If he cannot serve as a guard without drooling over you, I will tell him to find another trade. Besides, are there not eligible maids in Padrida he can seek out?”

  “Yes. And you will soon meet them all.” She grinned. “I will be forced to watch them long for you. Promise you will not be overly charming?”

  He stopped walking and rubbed his chin. “Hmm…Gentle with Korvin and not overly charming with the women of
the realm. You ask much of me.”

  She playfully smacked his chest. “I love you, Sebastian. Now, behave yourself and go learn how to farm.”

  “Another command, my queen?”

  Olivia stood on her tiptoes and kissed his lips. “You can expect more tonight in our chamber.”

  Her words set his heart racing.

  As he watched her walk away, he felt more in love than the day they married.

  The trials they had endured and were still overcoming had profoundly strengthened their bond. Though captive in Padrida, he knew without question, he belonged here.

  Chapter 20

  Last night’s full moon reminded Donovan how much time had passed since he had sent Roderick to Issa with the proper amount of gold coins and an understanding of what supplies they required. More than anything he wanted the man far from Coreen. Still, he should have returned by now, and Donovan could not help feeling uneasy.

  His spirits had briefly lifted as soon as Roderick had ridden away, but his absence did not help matters with Coreen. Donovan had been unable to talk to her in depth. Whenever he looked at her, visions of Roderick and she together came to mind. Perhaps he was acting childish—or more reasonably, jealous. Whichever it might be, he had not managed to speak his mind, or reveal his true feelings.

  Mirella had urged him more than once to go to Coreen, but he repeatedly ventured in the opposite direction and found other ways to occupy his days.

  “I am insane,” he mumbled and kicked at the ground. He had forgotten how to behave as a man and had been acting no better than an immature boy.

  With newly determined resolve, he returned to the cave. The pleasant aroma of frying pork greeted him.

  Mirella looked his way and broadly smiled. “Are you hungry, my lord?” Though she was usually cheerful, Roderick’s absence had substantially improved her overall mood.

  “Yes, I am. Quite.”

  “As am I,” Coreen said from the corner of the room, where she sat holding Nara. “Your sweet daughter has had her fill, however, my stomach is rumbling.”