“Now,” Aaron said. “If you wish to come to the Halls of Mist with me and act as scribe, translator, and researcher for the Druid Hall, add a polite request to that effect.” He watched Cen continue to write, pleased the faerie wished to join him. Zalia was one of the few kingdoms with no representatives in the Druid Hall. Besides, if they intended to work with Zalia, it would prove valuable to employ someone who had insight into its traditions.
Of course, if Tràth did marry Imena, that would give them access to the princess. Given how he reacted at the Shadow Gate, Aaron didn’t know if the prince would go through with it. Aaron had been shocked and saddened, but the prospect of bonding made him simultaneously hopeful and excited, despite the uncertainty of the situation. Tràth’s reaction to the lot of the shadowlings had clearly been personal. Aaron hoped his passion would motivate Tràth to help make changes in Zalia, changes the druids would never be able to induce alone.
Aaron read the letter Cen had drafted, took the stylus, and signed the page in his own hand. “Before you go, would you ask her name?”
Cen shook his head. “She won’t have one,” he said. “None of the shadowlings do. It’s—”
“Forbidden,” Aaron finished for him. “Ask her what she wants to be called.”
Cen translated the question into the fae tongue.
She tilted her head and furrowed her hairless brow. She pointed at Aaron, took his hand again, and kissed the back of it.
“She keeps doing that. What does the gesture mean?” Aaron asked Cen.
“She’s pledging loyalty and service,” he said.
“Tell her I don’t want her to be my servant. If she consents, someday we’ll share a bond.”
Cen translated, and she touched her chest, just over heart. A smile crept over her silent lips. Reaching toward Aaron, she touched his chest, then her own again.
“Yes,” he said. “I feel it too.” He kissed her hand, ignoring the grime on her fingers. He felt awkward, having Cen translate such intimate things, but when she smiled, the discomfort melted away.
She touched her chest again, this time seeming to indicate herself. Then she indicated her lips and smiled.
“What does she mean?” Aaron asked Cen.
“I confess I haven’t used the shadowling sign language in decades, so my vocabulary isn’t as complete as I might like. I will work on filling any gaps,” he said quickly. “I believe she’s describing herself.” He turned back to the faerie. “Aoibhneach?” he asked.
She nodded again, smiling widely.
“What does that word mean?” Aaron asked.
“In English you would say glad, elated, or joyful.”
Aaron smiled at her, even though she couldn’t see him. “Tell her we have a name in English: Joy. Ask if she would like to take that name.”
She responded to the suggestion with another kiss to his hand and a happy expression. The happiness was somehow enhanced, rather than marred, by her many scars. Aaron suspected others didn’t see what he did, but to him, she was perfect. “Joy,” he repeated. “A beautiful name.”
After Cen translated, Aaron asked him, “One last thing before you go. Would you ask if she would allow my attendant to help her bathe? And also, ask a steward if he can find more suitable clothing for her.” Her clothes were little more than rags. When he brought her to the Druid Hall, he wanted her to feel like she belonged.
Cen did as requested, and a worried frown appeared on Joy’s face. She pulled her arms in tightly and covered herself, as though suddenly embarrassed about her state. But Cen continued speaking to her in a gentle tone. Aaron had no idea what the scribe said, but he appeared to soothe her worries.
She shook her head once, then pointed at Aaron. Cen seemed to be trying to convince her, but she stood her ground.
“I’m sorry, my lord druid,” Cen finally said. “She won’t consent to an attendant bathing her. Only you.”
Aaron blinked. “Right,” he said. “Well, please tell her I’ll help get her situated, and I’ll wait outside while she bathes. I…” He felt foolish for making such a fuss, but he didn’t feel comfortable. She tugged on his heart, and he wanted to do anything she asked. But she was vulnerable, clinging to him because he offered her a better life. The last thing he intended was to take advantage of her or for her to think he had expectations.
“I understand,” Cen said, with an amused smile. He spoke to Joy for a few more moments, until she seemed to agree with whatever he was saying. Then, Cen stood. “I believe she is ready, my lord druid. If I have your leave, I will deliver your message to the princess and procure the clothing the lady requires.”
“Thank you,” Aaron said. “Your help will be of great value to me. When we arrive at the Druid Hall, we’ll sort out your duties. I’ll make sure you have the opportunity to study as well as work.”
“I appreciate your thoughtfulness, my lord druid. Of course, I won’t turn down working with the other druid lords and learning more runes, but this provides a unique chance for me. I’d like to work with you both as much as you need, if it pleases you.”
“It does,” Aaron said.
The scribe bowed to him and left. Aaron gazed down at the faerie. “Joy,” he said softly. She smiled up at him and nodded. He held out his hand, and she accepted his support. If the state of her eyes wasn’t obvious, he would swear she could see. “Let’s get you to the bath,” he said.
After calling for his attendant to prepare water for Joy, he guided her to the bathing room. He tested the water, then took her hand and touched it to the surface. Her expression changed from happiness to fear. She clung to him. “You’re okay.” He hoped his tone was enough to reassure her. “I’m right here.”
She shook her head and buried her face in his shoulder. He couldn’t tell how old she was, what her education or experience might be, but he suspected if she’d ever taken a bath, the event was either too long ago to remember or it had proved horrifying.
“Okay,” he said, uncertain what to do. She couldn’t go the rest of her life without a bath, but how could he convince her everything would be all right?
He slipped off his shoes. She glanced down at the sound. He knelt, taking her foot in his hand. She allowed him to remove her tattered shoes. He continued with this process, one piece of clothing at a time, until they were both undressed. His heart ached at the black scars covering her crimson skin. Her body was criss-crossed with long, thick stripes and old burn marks.
Keeping hold of her hand, Aaron stepped into the tub and guided her to do the same. With some trepidation, she followed. Gently, they sat together in the warm water, Joy with her back to Aaron’s chest. He handed her a bathing sponge and poured soap into it. She smelled it, turning to him with a smile, but didn’t seem certain what to do. He put his hand over hers, and guided her through washing herself. She quickly understood.
In truth, she needed a thorough scrubbing, but he didn’t want to risk upsetting her. Fortunately, she seemed to enjoy the process and got quite vigorous with the bathing sponge. The water darkened with grime.
She washed herself from head to foot, and the faerie that emerged at the end, although still scarred and timid, was even more beautiful. The potential bond pulled at his heart when she smiled in his direction. How she could be happy after everything that happened to her, Aaron didn’t understand. Every scar on her body told a horrifying tale of neglect and hardship. He handed her a soft cloth to dry her skin and took one for himself. He tried not to stare. Even though she was blind, he didn’t think it would be respectful.
His attendant appeared as Aaron was drying himself. “My lord druid,” he said. “I didn’t realise you would be washing as well. You should have sent for me.”
“No worries,” Aaron said. “Lady Joy needed my help.” He didn’t know why he called her that, but the title fit. If she was to be his bond-mate, and he hoped she would, she deserved the same courtesy as any noblewoman. He regarded her, and his head swam. “Jalail, I’m feeling lighth
eaded.”
“Are you unwell, my lord druid?”
“No. It’s the bonding magic.” He paused. “Has Cen arrived with clothing for the lady?”
“Yes, a moment ago. He dropped them off, then hurried to gather his things for the journey. He said he’d meet us in the main courtyard.”
“Good.” He looked at Joy, who had turned toward him as though watching him. “Please help her dress. The lady will need her own attendant at the Druid Hall, but if you don’t mind, I would appreciate your assistance. I’m afraid I don’t know anything about women’s clothing.”
“I will aid you both, my lord druid.” Jalail lowered his voice. “It is an honourable thing you are doing, to bond with one they call a shadowling, even as the azuri prince takes the Zalian princess. It will mean a great deal to many here.”
Aaron nodded, not knowing how to disabuse the attendant of the idea that he chose Joy. He guided her to his chamber, where Jalail dressed them both. She seemed to find the attention strange, and she reacted timidly, but she complied with the attendant’s gentle guidance and occasional words.
Joy ran her hand over the soft, velvet dress Cen had brought. The dress was full and its skirt divided, to make travelling easier. The silver shade looked luscious against the dark crimson of her skin. The scribe had even thought to bring several pairs of slippers. Jalail had Joy sit, and he helped her find the ones which fit best.
Aaron watched, fascinated. A fever made sweat emerge on his brow. His eyes grew hot and watered. The magic was beginning to take a toll. He would need to tell the Mistwatchers what to expect. His condition might not get any worse. Douglas had been feverish, but ultimately fine when he bonded with Tràth. Munro, on the other hand, said he’d been delirious for days. “Jalail, would you tell her I think she looks beautiful?”
The attendant translated, and Joy tilted her face up to Aaron. She ran her hand over her bald head, as though trying to cover her many scars. He’d meant to pay her a compliment, but she seemed puzzled and sad. She shook her head once and looked away, breaking Aaron’s heart.
“Are we all packed?” Aaron asked Jalail.
“Yes, my lord druid.”
“Please tell the Mistwatchers we’re ready to leave.”
“Yes, my lord druid,” Jalail repeated and left.
In less than an hour, they were on their way. The journey passed quickly. Joy stayed close to Aaron, but seemed to enjoy the run. He wondered if she’d travelled before. He looked forward to the day when they could communicate freely, so he might learn about her life. When the group approached the portal, she held her hand out to touch the orb of light. Passing her hand through its energy, she quickly withdrew it.
“We’ll be perfectly safe,” Aaron said. “I’ve passed through the portal a hundred times.”
She didn’t seem comforted, making Aaron doubt Cen’s translation.
Finally, holding Aaron’s hand, she consented to travel through. The portal pulsed hard when they entered, but the sensation quickly passed.
When they arrived in the Halls of Mist’s courtyard a few seconds later, Aaron was surprised to see Lisle and Douglas. “What’s up?” he asked Douglas, who looked particularly distressed.
The relief on Lisle’s face was evident. “Oh thank god,” she said. “We were just debating about coming through.”
“I still have to go to Zalia,” Douglas said.
“Why?” Aaron asked. “What’s going on?”
Neither replied, however, because they were staring at Joy. She had been hiding behind Aaron, but she peered out as they moved away from the portal.
Douglas asked, “Where’s Tràth? Why isn’t he with you?”
“He’s still negotiating a trade agreement with the Zalians. I thought he’d told you he expected to be gone for a couple of weeks. I only came back sooner because of Joy.” He indicated the faerie beside him.
Cen had continued a running translation for Joy’s benefit.
“This is Lady Joy,” Aaron said. After a short pause, he added, “She is to be my bonded faerie. She doesn’t understand English and signs in the fae tongue. Cen will act as translator until I can learn to do so myself.”
No one said a word for a moment, then Lisle said, “Congratulations to both of you. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Lady Joy.”
With Cen’s help, Aaron introduced the two druids. He could see their hesitation and the many unasked questions in their expressions. Her missing eyes and the scars over her body, especially the ropy, black gash at her throat, would give anyone pause. Aaron recognised that even though she was blind, Joy easily interpreted their reaction.
Joy made some signs with her hands, bowing to Douglas and Lisle.
Cen translated, “I am honoured.”
“Please tell her she doesn’t have to do that,” Aaron said to Cen.
Cen gave her the instruction, but she only became more uncertain.
“Please,” Douglas said. “Is Tràth all right?”
Aaron hardly knew how to answer the question. Tràth had been visibly upset at Joy’s condition, but he didn’t think that’s what Douglas was referring to. He also believed it wasn’t his place to tell Douglas Tràth was considering a marriage proposal. “Yeah, he’s fine. I just saw him. He seemed tired, but that’s all.” Looking at Joy and thinking about their potential bond, he realised Douglas might have sensed Tràth’s distress. “We can talk back at the Hall. Tràth was upset earlier, but I’m sure he’s calmed down by now.”
Douglas shook his head, looking confused. “I need to step through, check for myself.”
Aaron suspected Douglas didn’t know Tràth had wanted to close the bond. After the way he’d ignored Tràth, how could he be surprised?
“Listen, I think I understand what’s bothering you. Let’s talk back at the Hall, where we can find some privacy.”
Douglas nodded. “All right.” He glanced at the portal with distrust.
Lisle sighed. “We have bad news.” She gave Aaron a significant look. “Very bad.”
His heart clinched. From her expression, something terrible must’ve happened. “What is it?” he asked. “Is everyone all right?”
“Come on,” Lisle said, trying unsuccessfully to mask her worry. “We’ll get Lady Joy settled, then we’ll talk.”
Chapter 15
Prince Koen took it as a good sign that Queen Konstanze of Ashkyne received him in a small private room rather than a larger public arena. Her response to his request was as he expected: reserved but curious.
He bowed deeply. “Your Majesty,” he said.
She tilted her head in reply, taking the measure of him with her eyes. “I was surprised to hear from you. There are whispers that your mate has taken ill. Nothing serious, I hope.” Her tone betrayed her wariness.
The queen’s eyes flickered with annoyance when he sat without waiting to be invited. Although she outranked him, he didn’t want her believing she had the upper hand. “I’m afraid it does seem to be. I’d like to take you into my confidence. You are a powerful queen. I’m sure you’ll know what I should do.”
“Of course,” she said, narrowing her gaze.
“You see, Eilidh’s second mate, the druid lord Quinton Munro, died two nights ago.” He heard the slight intake of breath Konstanze tried so hard to disguise.
“Is that so?” she asked with a frown.
“The Druid Hall is not announcing the loss, and Eilidh’s first mate Griogair hopes to keep the tragedy quiet. I’m not sure what purpose that serves, except to deceive the Caledonian people about their queen’s condition.” He had Konstanze’s complete attention. “I’ve come to you because I made a grievous mistake. When Eilidh offered me the protection of her bloodline after my mother’s death, I believed I had little choice. The Source Stone had chosen her, after all. I should have accepted your offer instead.”
“Oh?” Konstanze asked. She sat back in her chair, considering every word.
“Eilidh hardly speaks to me. She has no inten
tion of bearing my child, so I will have no opportunity to produce an heir. But that matters little at this point. I believe soon Eilidh will be dead.”
Konstanze raised an eyebrow. “She suffers because of her bond?”
“Suffering is inadequate a word to describe her state. She’s inert and fades more with each passing hour. The Caledonian conclave intends to crown Princess Maiya, with Griogair as regent until she comes of age. You understand my dilemma?”
“I believe so,” she said. “However, I would be surprised if Griogair exiled you.”
“Truly? Your Majesty, you underestimate how jealous he is. He encourages if not instigates Eilidh’s harsh treatment of me. He manoeuvres to keep me away from her. I think he’s been planning for this moment. We only have his word about what happened to Munro. A few Caledonian servants did witness the attack, but they would repeat whatever story he commanded them to. In fact, he’s sworn them to silence about the event. Consider this: As her first mate, he expected to father her heir. Instead, she shunned him in favour of one she deemed more powerful. He’s even more jealous of Munro than of me. Princess Maiya’s birth made the matter worse.”
Konstanze sipped her wine as Koen went on.
“So what better solution than to murder the druid lord? They are physically weak, even if they do control the Source Stone. As further evidence, I offer you this bit of information: no body was recovered.”
“No? How can you be certain he is dead?”
“Only Prince Griogair’s word. He claims our mate believes him dead and says her bond would reveal the truth to her. However, he refuses to allow me to visit her to verify the claim. Princess Maiya has been isolated, her nurses not even allowed to leave the child’s chambers. For all I know, she, along with those who serve her, may be dead as well.”
“I would not have suspected Griogair could be so…ruthless.”
“Believe me, Your Majesty. I have witnessed his work. Somehow, he convinced the joint conclave to put him on the throne. If Maiya, by the grace of the Mother, still lives, with Munro and Eilidh out of the way, can she possibly stay untouched? How long before Griogair goes from accepting the regency to becoming the first Caledonian king in generations?”
Caledonia Fae 05 - Elder Druid Page 17