“I wish it was that simple, it is so easy to get up and react in a violent nature, but I do not wish for my people to believe that war can fought by violence alone. I cannot have the younger generations grow up thinking it is normal and right that we react with physical violence.” Eveline said seriously, gazing at a pair of children playing ball together.
“I understand, you believe that there are other ways, and you are right, but who better to implement them but you,” offered Jophiel, looking into Eveline’s anxious face.
“The problem that faces me is this, can my half-brother see sense? Has he gone too far, so far that violence is the only option?” pondered Eveline heavily.
“I believe that in relation to your brother, physical reaction may be the only course of action, but..,” she began hopefully, “that doesn’t mean you cannot try to bring together the other leaders of the North and South through negotiations. Despite the war they wage, they and you have one common enemy, your half-brother.”
“That doesn’t make them any better than Heidan,” argued Eveline.
“It may not, but it may persuade them to come together in order to fight against him,” answered Jophiel.
“It may,” mused Eveline. “I would be naive in thinking that the war against Heidan can be fought without violence, but I want my people to understand that they cannot react to those they dislike with the same physical harshness, we all must try to understand our differences and find common ground.”
“You sound like a diplomat,” smiled Jophiel, “which will stand in your favour, there are others ways to make people bend, not just through the sword and I am sure you will find ways in which to bend those you dislike to your will.”
“That sounds unlike myself, I have never tried to bend someone’s views to suit my own,” said Eveline evenly. “I do not even have much experience on the laws of politics, morals and ethics.”
“Well as to that, I have many fine books on the subjects that you can read beginning with Plato, in fact if you do decide to return to Calhuni, I suggest you bring with you some important guides,” Jophiel replied, guiding them through the gates and onto the road.
“I feel so uneducated,” sighed Eveline mournfully looking to her left and right before crossing.
“You are not uneducated, you are very intelligent, it is just that now you feel overwhelmed with responsibility,” Jophiel remarked flatly. “Why don’t we spend this week debating political philosophy and understanding political science,” said Jophiel her eyes sparkling with excitement and the prospect. “I am the angel of enlightment so really it is my duty.”
“How can I possibly take in all that political philosophy and science teaches in a week?” Eveline groaned, opening the gate to Jophiels house and letting her past.
“Eveline it doesn’t have to be complicated, and really it isn’t, we will look at the general concepts and work from there, and in the evenings you can read,” smiled Jophiel. “Have hope you have after all mastered the art of magic in a few weeks, which is an achievement, you are well able to master the art of politics.”
“Alright teacher, I will try,” laughed Eveline entering the house and taking off her coat.
“Good, and while we are discussing the various forms of political theories we can touch upon morals and ethics,” Jophiel said happily.
*
“Montesquieu believed that by separating the judicial system, the executive and the legislative would become dependent on one another, thus meaning that the power or influence of one of the them would not be able to exceed the other two,” Eveline stated firmly, setting down Montesquieu’s On the Spirit of Laws, with a thud.
“Yes, he believed that rules and laws could reduce the problems faced by society and thus they helped to improve society and human life.” Jophiel answered wisely, her spectacles on the end of her nose, giving her an air of the academic. “He believed in three types of government; a monarchy ruled by a King or Queen, a republic rule by an elected leader for instance France and a despotism ruled by a dictator like Hitler.”
“But he believed that a government run by the people and elected by the people was the best form of democracy?” Quizzed Eveline curiously.
“Yes, the current American political system was founded on his idea of the separation of powers, but we shouldn’t forget other political philosophers who helped to influence the American political system, such as John Locke and Francis Bacon.” Jophiel lectured.
“Yes John Locke’s, Two Treatises influenced the declaration of American Independence and Francis Bacon’s novel The New Atlantis, brought about his vision of a utopian North America; were slavery would be condemned, political rights would be offered to both men and women, the church and state would be separate and importantly that there would be freedom of religious and political expression.”
“Yes, similar to Thomas More’s book Utopia, in which he envisions the idea of an ideal society, it is greatly debated amongst academics however as he was a very dedicated catholic and was influenced by the humanist philosopher Desiderius Erasmus, anyway without going into great detail,” Jophiel breathed. “Plato’s Republic is considered to be the first book in which the image of an ideal society is described. Plato believed that we could find ways in which to better ourselves and our society.”
“So Montesquieu and Plato differ in their theories of power and who holds power?” Asked Eveline quietly, trying to take it all in, and digesting it without it overwhelming her.
“Yes, Montesquieu believed that political society was based on civil law, that the legal framework of that society should be reflected in what citizens saw as right or wrong,” Jophiel began swirling wine about in her glass. “Plato’s Republic challenges the definition of justice, he believed in a society that was made up of three classes, producers, auxiliaries and guardians, believing that a society was just when all three of these classes were working together. He believed that each person should only fulfil the role with which he was granted by nature and not interfere in the business of others.”
Eveline listened curiously as Jophiel explained Plato’s theory on individual justice, yawning with exhaustion but willing herself to listen. It was interesting watching Jophiel talk about political philopshy, she was so alive with thoughts and pondering, it made Eveline feel slightly demoralised, realising that she really didn’t know that much.
“And so each of the classes are controlled by the three elements of the soul, their appetites, spirits and rational thinking. Plato believed that our world was divided into two realms, the visible and the intelligible, believing firmly that only educated persons could understand knowledge,” Jophiel let out a breath gazing at Eveline, “am I overwhelming you?”
“No, no it’s interesting, truly it is, but I feel overwhelmed with knowledge myself and if there is one philosopher I wish to talk off then it is Machiavelli,” smiled Eveline hopefully.
“Ah Niccolo Machiavelli, an interesting pick, why him if I may ask?” frowned Eveline curiously.
“I found his book The Prince, well harrowing but intriguing at the same time, I have a feeling most academics discredit it,” Eveline explained.
“Well it is debatable, either it was written as a practical guide on how to gain power or as some academics would debate it is a guide on how not to rule,” smiled Jophiel. “Machiavelli wrote The Prince in hope that he would find favour with Lorenzo de Medici the current ruler of Florence at that time, however he did not find favour.”
“It is shocking indeed that he justifies the immoral and unethical acts of violence used by rules or those trying to gain power,” Eveline mused, “I can understand why it is treated with distain, but within his book lies an element of truth, whether we dare admit it or not, he believes that we have to control our destiny and not merely wait for it.”
“If you are willingly to believe that it was a satire book, then that changes things slightly, he is then highlighting the notion of tyrannical rule, he is exposing the republican gov
ernment which at that time was in chaos,” explained Jophiel thoughtfully.
“Yes, I wonder, does my half-brother need the help of those beneath him? Or does his abilities keep him power with or without support?” Eveline asked, shifting her body in the chair, letting her hips relax.
“I’m not quite sure. Heidan is indeed from what you have told me a tyrannical ruler, but even with all his strength and abilities he still needs his supporters help to keep control over those who oppose him,” answered Jophiel. “He may be individually powerful, more so than any other shadow, angel or being, but if you bring together a group of powerful beings and they begin to function as one then you become his equal, do you understand?”
“Yes I think I do. I have powers to equal his, despite not knowing about them until now, but if I were to find others who had extensive and strong powers, together we could cripple him,” she pondered deeply, “but then again he has the support of Lagar and those who follow him like Islaer, so really both sides are as powerful as the other, it is a level playing field, so what determines victory?”
“Publilius Syrus once said that where there is unity there is always victory,” Jophiel quoted grandly.
“Light can overcome darkness, you are right, unity is needed,” smiled Eveline yawing again.
“I think you need to go to bed, it has been a long week and Theodore will be arriving in the morning,” Jophiel ordered getting up and stretching her arms out.
“Yes, I am excited to see him,” announced Eveline following Jophiel in getting up and stretching.
“So you are decided then? You will marry him and go through with the plan?” Jophiel asked seriously, opening the study door and letting Eveline pass.
“Yes, I would regret not trying, it seems the most logical and illogical thing to do,” Eveline smiled setting her hand down on the banister.
“I hope for your sake that it works, so you will make for Keswick next week?” Jophiel asked following Eveline up the stairs whilst unpinning her hair.
“Yes, I am packed and ready to go tomorrow. We are too be married at a registry office near Westminster.” Eveline smiled happily at the thought.
“How romantic,” sighed Jophiel. “I dare not ask how your grandfather will react.”
“He gave me a choice and promised that whatever I choose to do he would support my decision,” replied Eveline firmly.
“Well I wish you all the best, it has been a pleasure having you here, teaching you and befriending you,” said Jophiel stopping and turning to give her new friend a hug. “I am only sorry I cannot go with you, but I have packed away some essential reading whilst you are up in Keswick waiting for June’s arrival.”
“You have been so good to me Jophiel, so very good, I will not forget your kindness,” smiled Eveline hugging her friend tightly, “and I will write weekly to you, it would be sad to not keep in contact.”
“Maybe you can spend your time in Keswick learning how to protect yourself with a sword, Theodore should be qualified enough for the job,” Jophiel answered letting go of their embrace.
“That is a good idea, I will make sure that he takes time to train me so that I am at least decently set up for the journey ahead,” Eveline said happily turning to her door, “good night,” she whispered.
“Good night Celestine,” murmured Jophiel walking into her room and closing the door behind her.
Chapter XV
Belated Present
“So are you ready?” Jophiel asked Eveline, standing behind her at the looking mirror. Eveline smiled at her reflection, Jophiel had given her a beautiful, cream dress that fell to her calves and coat to wear for her wedding to Theodore. Eveline’s hair was set beautifully and adorned with small, cream and yellow flowers.
“I think so yes,” Eveline replied nervously, gently rubbing her painted lips together, she had to admit the effect was rather lovely.
“I have a gift for you, something to remember me by,” said Jophiel turning round and picking up two velvet boxes. Eveline’s eyes looked upon the velvet boxes and she sighed.
“Oh you really shouldn’t have,” she gushed rather excited to be given two presents.
“Well every bride needs some jewellery doesn’t she?” smiled Jophiel opening the larger of the boxes and revealing a beautiful pearl bracelet, set with small diamonds.
“Oh Jophiel it is beautiful,” Eveline beamed in the mirror gazing down as Jophiel put the bracelet on her right wrist.
“It was a gift from a very old friend and since I will never marry, I want you to have it.” Jophiel answered quietly, stroking the pearls with her fingers, before setting the box down and opening the small box, revealing matching earrings.
“Oh my how very exquisite,” cooed Eveline taking the earrings in her palm and turning them about with her fingers before putting them on.
“There you look ready to meet you fiancé,” laughed Jophiel walking round the side of the bed and taking a small parcel from a cupboard. Eveline allowed herself a moment to take in her over all appearance, she really did look striking and she felt stunning inside and out. The beautiful yellow diamond jewel at her chest shined brightly, warming her heart. Jophiel returned to her and took her hands in her own guiding her to the end of the bed and setting her down.
“When I was in the cab with Galean he gave me a parcel, told me that if he didn’t survive that I was to give this to you when the time was right.” Jophiel smiled, looking down at the neatly wrapped parcel. Eveline frowned as she gazed at the package, it looked very familiar and for a second she felt a wave of grief descend upon her.
“It’s the fudge,” she choked, “we went to this beautiful sweet shop in Bath with Belle and I told him how I wished for some fudge, he must have bought it for me as a present for Christmas.”
“He left you a card as well, its inside he said, and you are to read it alone and to eat the fudge when you feel sad.” Jophiel said quietly watching the pain fill Eveline’s eyes.
“What would he think of me, marrying Theodore,” cried Eveline, holding the parcel in her hands tightly.
“He would be happy for you Eveline, he was not a man that was easily rushed to jealousy and anger, and he only wanted you to be happy.”
“Is it wrong that a part of me wishes I was marrying him instead?” whispered Eveline shamefully.
“No, not at all, you loved him, still I think you love him, but he is gone and your love for Theodore will grow and strengthen,” promised Jophiel, squeezing her hand gently. “Come no tears today, let us go down and have some tea before we leave.”
“I will be down directly I will just put this in my suitcase,” smiled Eveline getting up off the bed with the parcel in her hands and crossing the room to her brown leather suitcase, waiting for Jophiel to exit before kneeling down and opening it. The suitcase wasn’t packed with clothes, only a few blouses, skirts and jumpers alongside her undergarments. Eveline placed the beautifully wrapped package onto of her clothes, stroking it with tenderness and love before shutting the suitcase close again and picking it up, leaving the room, and turning to take one last glance before closing the door. Jophiel and Eveline sat in the morning room for half an hour before the doorbell rang and Theodore was introduced to them. Eveline blushed as he gazed at her, his eyes taking in all of her beauty. Theodore was dressed in a morning suit and looked as handsome as ever, his blue eyes as blue as ever, his cheeks flushed with happiness.
“You look stunning,” he murmured kissing her cheek slightly. Jophiel stood and watched the couple embrace, her heart warming. The logical and reasonable side of Jophiel understood seriously the consequences that their marriage would bring, but they adored one another and she understood also why they wanted to marry. Sometimes she thought as she stood on the doorstep waving them away, logic wasn’t always the best course of action, and love was not logical. Jophiel felt bereft without her new friend as she closed the door behind her and entered her morning room, but she felt hopeful that she had trained her and lectu
red her enough so that Eveline would be able to protect herself, that she was ready for the new journey she was about to take.
*
Theodore clasped Eveline’s hand gently as they sat together in the taxi nearing the registry office at Westminster.
“Are you nervous?” he asked warmly, gazing at his future bride with deep adoration.
“Yes and no,” replied Eveline, smoothing back her hair with a gloved hand, “what I mean is I am anxious that something will go wrong but am very happy that we are to wed and go back to Keswick, to go home.”
“You have nothing to worry about Eveline, everything will go smoothly and soon we will be on the train back to Keswick where we can have a few months of normality, a few months in which to be a married couple,” Theodore answered happily, “do you remember the wedding at Bristol?”
“Yes with fond memories, she looked beautiful,” beamed Eveline, letting her laced hand rest in Theodores.
“When we were sitting there watching the ceremony, all I could think about was marrying you,” Theodore declared, his face full of happiness and joy.
“That is exactly what was going through my mind too,” gushed Eveline, her cheeks flushing slightly.
“Despite only meeting on that day, I knew instantly when I met you that I loved you,” Theodore murmured, lifting his other hand and cupping her face tenderly.
“And I you,” answered Eveline letting her cheek lean into his palm softly.
“When we were in Bath I had this crazy idea that you may have felt similar feelings for Galean,” laughed Theodore, rolling his eyes.
“Why would you think that?” choked Eveline, trying to disguise her shock with a cough.
“Oh, it’s stupid really,” Theodore frowned, “you just both got on so well, and it didn’t make things any easier seeing you both with Belle, you looked like a normal family, and it made me jealous admittedly.”
One Crown & Two Thrones: The Guardians Page 34