Her voice quieted ‘She died because of me.’
‘And how was that?’
‘Roulan said it was a difficult birth, she died after I was born.’ Shrugging her shoulders and shaking her head, she didn’t know any of the details. Roulan had told her all of this, so she only had his words to go on.
‘Father was heartbroken and Roulan said if he sees me doing the things she could, it would make him unhappy.’
Staring into his eyes she felt tears starting to form. Kai scowled, it was obvious Roulan had found a weakness in his sister, and for whatever reason, he was controlling her.
‘I think we should return home.’ Kai hugged Eloise, resting his chin on top of her head, his eyes narrowed. He thought about Roulan, and decided he liked him even less.
Feeling Kai’s firm body, Eloise closed her eyes and accepted the warm embrace. She never felt anything like this. His touch made her tingle and she couldn’t imagine him harming anyone when he appeared so gentile. Moving her arm around his side, she clung onto his wet shirt when he kicked on his horse. They didn’t hurry, but took a slow walk in the rain back home.
Chapter 14
Darion was making good time, he’d reach Darkmide by the afternoon; pleased he’d set off before dawn, estimated he’d arrive at his destination before sundown. He had to ride through Darkmide to keep on the main road and would stop and rest a while there before continuing onto Blackhill. Stopping for only a short while that morning, to have a light snack he’d wanted to press on. He didn’t like sleeping outside, and would be happier in a room at one of the taverns. It wasn’t a difficult journey, the road was well traveled. Many traders from Braxton and other towns and villages, used it often. Already meeting a few merchants, selling fruit and other perishable goods, he‘d refused an offer to journey to Blackhill together. He wasn’t in the mood for company, thoughts about Milo and the other victims of Dryden prayed on his mind. Wishing the traders a good morning, he’d quickened his horse to put some distance between them; using the excuse he had urgent business at Blackhill.
The previous year, Darion and Milo had taken the journey to Blackhill together; selling the surplus of wine, it had been a good year. They looked to make a good profit from their hard work. He and Milo would spend a few days in town; see the sights as it were. Not that it had any. But a change of scenery, from the usual drudgery of Braxton made a welcomed change. Neither of them traveled much, both enjoying their quiet lives. They kept away from trouble whenever they could. Farmers not fighters, they sought a quieter lifestyle.
Darion wasn’t the tallest of men, although at five feet-eleven he wasn’t exactly small. Fit from working the vineyards and fields, his lean body notable. Darker skin, bronzed by the sun from constant work outside, it complemented his dark hair and ruddy complexion. He loved working outside. Freedom, peace and quiet was all he wanted. Food on the table and a comfortable bed to sleep in made him happy. It was the same for Milo. Lowering his head, he would miss his friend. They worked side by side every day. Some evenings they’d share a jug of wine or ale with Darion’s father at their home; it wouldn’t be the same without him. He wished he could have stopped him from riding onto Dryden yesterday. If he’d insisted he waited, he’d still be alive. Milo was hot-headed and often acted irrationally. Both Darion and his father had warned him on many occasions, he’d get into trouble one day. He hated that they were right.
Turning his thoughts to Blackhill and Kai of Darkmide, he hoped he’d be able to convince him to aid their cause. Knowing the reputation of the former slave, his struggle to gain freedom after his life in servitude, maybe he’d feel it was a just cause. The previous year when Darion and Milo were in Blackhill, they’d seen and admired the way he ruled over Blackhill. Having less crime in the town, made Blackhill a good place to live. Fearing the punishment, he ruled with a strong hand, but it worked. Foolish was the man who chose Blackhill as his thieving ground.
Staring ahead and squinting, he could make the outline of Darkmide. Kicking on his horse, he looked forward to a drink and a short break.
Darion found a place to rest and have a bite to eat. The Inn had plenty of clients, and although he had to wait for his food longer than expected, he took the time to rest. Listening to people as they chattered, it seemed the topic of conversation focused on a wedding. Doubts and concerns were expressed and Darion heard the name ‘Kai’ and the word ‘Princess’ in the same sentence. He tried to concentrate on the conversation at the table to his side. Curiosity got the better of him, turning to address one of the men, he tapped his arm.
‘Forgive me. Did I hear you mention a wedding?’
‘Yes, at Blackhill in two days. Kai’s going to marry a princess, from Middenland.’ He nodded before turning back to his friends at the table.
This was going to mess up things; Darion didn’t think he’d get the chance to speak with Kai, if he was busy with his wedding. Surprised he was marrying into royalty, though, suspected it was a land deal or something similar; it wasn’t uncommon for marriages to be arranged. Slumping forward and resting his head in his hands, he wasn’t sure if he should continue onto Blackhill or return home. The waitress brought over his food and placed it on the table, making him straighten. The soup didn’t look very appetizing. Puffing out a sigh, he scratched the side of his jaw and thought. If he returned home without having attempted to speak with Kai, he wouldn’t be very popular. On the other hand, he could travel to Blackhill and not get the opportunity anyway, so either way he would be out of luck.
Staring into the bowl of soup he decided to continue and see how it turned out. At least that way, he could say he tried. Dipping the spoon into the watery liquid, he hesitated as he drew it nearer his mouth. It didn’t smell good and pushed the bowl to the side. Leaving a few coins on the table, he rose and left the Inn.
Darion retrieved his horse and while he was preparing to leave, he watched four soldiers exiting the city on the main road, they were in a hurry. He only noticed them because they were dressed formally; all wearing the same colors and with an emblem on their backs, he assumed they might be in the wedding party. Not thinking anymore on the matter and mounting quickly, he headed in the direction of the soldiers.
The soldiers were traveling on the same road and towards Blackhill but the speed they rode took them out of sight within no time. Darion had no plans to hurry; he didn’t mind taking a slower ride. Thinking about the wedding, he hoped there would be rooms available, it could be difficult finding somewhere to stay if there were guests and visitors staying. He’d slept many times rough, so while he’d miss a comfortable bed; it wasn’t the end of the world.
Chapter 15
Finishing the slice of pie and wiping his hands on a cloth, Jace could easily have eaten more. Selecting a piece of fruit instead he looked around at the countryside while he ate. They’d managed a good portion of the journey already, and according to his father, they should arrive in Darkmide by noon tomorrow. Jace watched his father check the horses and clean their hooves.
‘Do you want some more wine father?’ He shook the flask and smiled.
‘Well, if you insist.’ They were almost at the border between Wild Plains and the Highlands. Stopping for a bit to eat and a chance to stretch, they’d chosen a good resting place. Still high enough to get a wide view, it was impressive to see.
Taking the flask and sitting next to Jace, Caster took a large mouthful.
‘Damn fine wine. I’ve heard Blackhill has a good supply we’ll be good then eh?’
Jace shook his head in amusement. While he appreciated good wine, he was no connoisseur. He knew what he liked and that was all that mattered. His father was a little pickier, but it didn’t stop him drinking it.
‘Is your mother still washing?’
‘Yes, she’s behind us somewhere.’ He cocked his head, nodding behind them. ‘She’s doing well, isn’t she?’ His smile bordered on a grin, and his cheeky remark didn’t go unnoticed.
‘She is, but if
you tell her I said so, I’ll slap you.’ Caster smirked.
Jace thought the world of his parents. He was lucky to have both, others were less fortunate. The banter between his mother and father made him appreciate his family and home life. He checked over his shoulder to see if they were still alone.
‘Can I ask you something father?’
‘Yes, what is it?’
‘Did you know that mother was the one when you met her?’
Raising his brow to stare, Caster remembered Jace’s subdued mood yesterday.
‘I did son.’ He nodded. ‘I never saw anyone so beautiful.
‘How did you know?’
‘I can’t explain it. It sort of… just felt right.’
Jace thought for a moment, he’d felt nothing with Caitlin, nor any other of the young women he’d taken out. ‘Do you think there’s someone special for everyone?’
‘Of course!’ Furrowing his brows. Slapping his hand on Jace’s thigh, ‘Trust me Jace, when you see her, whoever she is, you’ll know.’
Jace nodded, sure his father was right.
‘Did something upset you yesterday?’ Caster leaned closer. ‘Something that made you doubt yourself?’
Drawing in a deep breath then puffing out, Jace thought he’d tell his father about what happened with Caitlin. After listening, Caster moved his arm to Jace’s shoulder and squeezed it.
‘My son, you’re a fine looking man.’
Jace snorted.
‘There’s always going to be those women who see you nothing more than a provider. We may not be wealthy by some standards, but…we do alright.’
Pausing while he finished the last of the wine. ‘So you need to be careful where you put your… what you do, shall we say.’ He gave him a look and nodded.
Jace laughed and lowered his head. ‘I understand that. I’m sure I’ll meet someone special, like you say, and know it.’
‘You have to trust your heart lad. You’ll know when you see her, trust me.’
Slapping his shoulder and feeling a bit woozy after the wine, Caster tried to stand. He was a bit wobbly and Jace steadied him. Shaking his head at his father he quickly snatched the flask when he heard his mother arrive; Ellanor gave Caster and Jace a frown.
‘What have you two been up to?’
‘Nothing, just having something to eat.’
‘And a drink!’ She sighed before grinning at Casters slightly tipsy state.
‘Come on, you old goat.’ She took his arm, ‘shall I help you up onto your horse, or can you manage?’
Ellanor giggled and looked at Jace. ‘Should we tie him on so he doesn’t fall off?’
Matching his mother’s laughter, Jace put away the empty flask and moved towards his parents. He was about to aid his father to get back on his horse but was pushed away.
‘I’m not that drunk! I’ve only had a few mouthfuls!’ He grinned with a slight wobble ‘But maybe a leg up wouldn’t hurt.’
Ellanor shook her head and left him with Jace. She had herself to sort out. Gathering up the uneaten food and checking they’d not left anything, she mounted her horse. To her own amazement, she’d traveled well, and had been surprised she’d not found it more tiring. Checking to see if Caster and Jace were ready, she sidled next to Caster.
‘You’ve not forgotten the way have you?’ She raised her brows in amusement.
‘Of course not woman! I’m drunk, not daft!’ Looking around, he kicked on his horse. ‘It’s this way, trust me.
Chapter 16
Garlan and Leon stood beneath the shelter of the terrace and watched the rain, their expressions mixed. Unimpressed by the downpour, Garlan’s face expressed his disdain perfectly. The inclement weather was unexpected, only a few moments previously, the sky had been clear; not a hint of a cloud let alone a rainstorm. Noticing Nissa had joined them to watch the downpour, he puffed out a breath.
‘I hope this doesn’t last, it’s going to spoil the wedding.’
Leaning forward briefly Leon scanned the heavens; the rain was no issue for him, his concerns were for Eloise. It didn’t look like it would ease any time soon. Glancing briefly towards the doorway, he could sense Nissa’s anxiety as she joined them. Having heard the morning’s argument with Kiera and Eloise, he’d asked Sabe if he should ride after them. But Kai’s friend assured him that it was no concern, which made him feel easier.
Leon had been impressed with the town since they’d arrived and Kai had been the perfect host. He had no reason to fear any harm would come to Eloise while out with Kai. Since meeting him, he’d changed his views about the former slave.
‘Where the hell did it come from?’ Garlan asked, to nobody in particular.
Leon, with a raised brow in Nissa’s direction replied. ‘I’m sure I have no idea my Lord.’
Nissa, smiling sheepishly and returned inside; she wanted to speak with Sabe anyway.
Leon smiled; he wasn’t going to embarrass her further. Acknowledging her smile, he watched her leave. Seeing Garlan’s agitation at the continuing rain, he thought he’d enquire if he knew where Roulan had gone. Leon had watched him ride out in the early hours, and asked by Sabe of his whereabouts, he answered truthfully when he said he had no idea. Roulan’s behavior caused increasing concern and he was sure Garlan was oblivious.
‘I hope Roulan’s found somewhere to shelter.’
Snapping his head towards Leon, Garlan’s surprise answered his question.
‘What? Where is he?’ Garlan’s hands started to fist at his sides. He didn’t like not knowing what his son was doing. Since his argument with Roulan last evening, he’d not exchanged any words with him.
‘I’m afraid I have no idea my Lord. I thought you knew?’ Leon kept a blank expression.
‘I don’t! But once he returns, I’ll ask what he’s been doing. I promise you that.’
Leon was in a situation now, and wondered if this was the time to convey his worries about Roulan’s behavior to the King.
‘Can I speak with you freely my Lord?’ Leon hesitated. ‘I have a few concerns about Roulan which I’d like to share with you.’
Garlan turned slowly, his eyes narrowed at his friend and aid. ‘Should I be worried Leon?’
Raising a brow and sighing, truthfully not able to answer, Leon pursed his lips. Rubbing the flat of his hand over his cheek, he quickly glanced over his shoulder, to check they were alone.
‘Roulan has been meeting with mercenaries on a number of occasions in Brightstone.’
Noting Garlan’s surprised expression, he wondered if he was making the right decision to disclose his findings. While Garlan has no respect for his son; blood is thicker than water. But he’d started, so may as well finish.
Taking a breath, he continued. ‘I wasn’t sure who he was meeting to begin with, but later I discovered they were from the South. My sources tell me they’re from Xanderstone, a town known for harboring… less savory characters, for want of a better word.’
Leon wasn’t sure if this was a good time to tell him about Eloise, and how Roulan had manipulated her. He waited to gauge Garlan’s reaction from the news he’d given him. Sensing he was stressing already, the vein on his temple pulsed rapidly and his cheeks reddened.
‘You think he’s raising an army, to overthrow me then Leon?’
‘I’m afraid; it looks that way my Lord. But there’s something else I think you should know.’ Crossing his hands behind his back, he took a step closer. ‘He’s controlling Eloise, and I don’t know the reasons, but I suspect it’s something to do with her… gift.’ His brow arched.
Garlan knew Eloise inherited her mother’s abilities as well as her beauty, but he didn’t know they were of any significance. ‘But surely making a bit of rain isn’t any use to him?’
Leon turned his body towards the soaked courtyard and raised both brows. Looking back to Garlan, he could see he finally realized that it was all Eloise’s doing.
‘You mean-?
‘Yes, my Lord. I’m quit
e sure Eloise has done this.’
‘I had no idea!’ Garlan raised his hands to his head and brushed them through his greying hair. ‘Why didn’t Eloise tell me she could do something like this?’
‘Because, Roulan forbid her to speak of it; telling her you’d disapprove.’
Garlan cocked his head to the side.
‘He’s been against this alliance from the start my Lord. He wanted to keep Eloise by his side.’ He watched Garlan’s horrified face as he processed the information.
‘What else can she do?’ Garlan fixed Leon with a piercing stare.
‘I’m sure anything she wants. If you recall her mother’s ability-’
‘I don’t need reminding.’ Garlan screwed his eyes shut and raised his hand quickly to stop him further.
Leon stepped back, gave an apologetic nod and turned to face the courtyard to watch the rain. It was flowing like a river in places, racing down the street and further. Usually people would run in to shelter from the rain, but the people of Blackhill had been waiting for it and were almost dancing when it arrived. Glancing at Garlan, he knew what he’d told him would cause him stress, but he didn’t regret it. Whatever Roulan was up to, it could make their time here uncomfortable. Sabe had already noticed his absence, and he had no doubts he’d be advising Kai. Giving the King a few moments to process what he’d said, Leon looked down at his boots before turning to him.
‘I think it might be worth having a word with him on his return.’
Garlan nodded. Glancing at Leon before he turned to walk away, his troubled brows furrowed. ‘Thank you for your council Leon. I appreciate you must have struggled telling me this.’
Leon closed his eyes slowly and nodded once.
‘I did my Lord. I hoped my investigations had turned out to be nothing, but the results do infer there’s a reason for concern. It's my duty to tell you my findings, no matter how difficult.’
‘I agree, thank you.’ Garlan’s worried face turned away from Leon; he left for the solace of his room without adding anything further.
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