by Aimee Hunter
“Will you show us where the entrance is and where it leads to?” Mason asked, not seeing the interaction between Rena and the Nightkin but noticing the same thing the Princess had. However, that was the least of her concerns at the moment. Her focus was on getting the people of Culville out safely.
“Of course.” Sylvia responded, motioning for Mason and Lana to proceed her. She hung back and caught Rena’s arm, pulling her close enough that the shifty Captain that trailed after the woman everywhere, wouldn’t overhear their conversation. He was already frowning at her hand on the Princess’ arm, looking as if he were about to rip her arm off. “Whatever you think you’ve figured out, you’re wrong,” she insisted harshly. There were things about the Summa that no one was supposed to know. It was forbidden for a human to know any of their secrets. And no matter how much power she had among her people, or how beloved she was by them; if they thought she had betrayed one of their most closely guarded secrets she could be executed for treason.
Rena placed her hand over the one on her arm gently removing it, but keeping ahold of the woman’s hand.
“It’s okay, Sylvia. I won’t say anything. But tell me, where did you learn how to cast enchantments?” The Nightkin woman’s mouth opened and closed, giving a strong impression of a fish out of water, but no sound came out. Her mind was racing though. Trying to think of anything to say. “Calm down. Breath.” Rena gently ordered, becoming concerned for the woman. “If it helps, I know a thing or two about magic myself.” This brought a weak smile to Sylvia’s face while her mind was sent racing down another path altogether. She had no idea Kahlian’s could harness magic. She opened her mouth to speak, having finally regained control of her vocal chords when Mason spoke up.
“We won’t get far with you leading from behind, Sylvia.” Mason quipped with a sharpness that caused both women to jump.
“I’ll be right there,” Sylvia responded quickly then glanced back at Rena. “Aren’t you coming?” Rena shook her head motioning over her shoulder at the Captain that was still watching them like a hungry hawk.
“No. There’s something I need to deal with.” The Princess explained. “You go ahead. When you get back, we’ll talk. Okay?” Sylvia nodded, uncertain what to make of this woman, but unable to deny her kindness. She waved to Rena before turning quickly to join the Stone sisters.
Chapter Seventeen
Rena watched Sylvia and the Stone sisters disappear inside the barracks then turned her attention to the city sighing. It was a shame that it would be lost. The city was a kaleidoscope of rich wood, brilliant gold and vibrant color. A city throbbing with life, even on the brink of war.
The Palace was the focal point of the entire city. A domed building with parapets and covered walkways for patrolling guards; showcasing giant white pillars all along the façade of the building. It looked like the architect had been an Englishman with a passion for ancient Roman architecture. It was beautifully incorporated with the buildings that still remained from the old world. Even the inside of the Palace was a cross between the English, Roman and mid-21st century American styles that was seen throughout Culville. It made Rena wonder if it was King Alexander who held the passion for this particular building type.
The inside of the Palace had the grand stairwells and thick lush carpets of Old England with the wide open marble-looking stone floors and halls the Roman’s favored which was intermixed with the industrialism from just before World War III. The Palace even had a Roman bath. The floor of the room was sunken, resembling a medium in-ground pool and the entire room was built out of a stone that looked to be the closest they could get to marble. There were even busts of Roman Gods and Goddess’ to complete the ambiance.
There were Grand fireplaces to chase away the bitter cold of the brutal wind swept winters common in this part of the continent. Beautiful gardens, giving homage to both cultures were literally everywhere in this city. An atrium was built adjacent to the back of the majestic building that was like another world. There were plants from every corner of the world, some that shouldn’t even exist anymore.
The dining hall smacked of English design, but the dining table itself was a curious piece of art. Someone had taken a solid oak table and carved beautiful figures of ancient Gods and passionate lovers, all wearing the togas of Roman aristocrats. Culville gave the distinct impression that it’s ruler was a lover of ancient history, seeking to model his kingdom after empires of yore.
The three rooves were domed and gold leafed. Rena briefly wondered where they had acquired the gold, considering how extremely rare the metal had become in the last few centuries. Each roof had its own unique statue crowning it. The center roof held a massive golden cross. The roof on the right is a female wearing a toga, Rena had been told it is a stature of the Roman Goddess Diana. Rena found this amusing as it was Diana Stone who had pointed it out. And on the left roof was a stature of a wolf baying at the moon. That particular statue was Rena’s favorite. Looking at it made her think that perhaps the mother wolf that had nurtured and raised the founders of that most glorious of ancient cities, was watching over them. Maybe she had even been like her.
The Eastland Princess dropped her gaze from the sparkling rooftops of the Palace to take in the city around her. Though the buildings were by no means as grand as the home of the Corlando’s. It had a well-manicured look to it. The houses and business’ all looked well cared for. Even the local taverns had the look of loving care. Rena was deeply saddened to think of it all being reduced to so much rubble.
She could see citizens already boarding up the windows of their homes. The proprietors of the business were doing the same. Most had donated all the food and drink the could spare to feed the soldiers who would be defending everything they loved against insurmountable odds.
Movement beside her brought her attention back to her immediate surroundings. Confused to find the whole of her Royal Guard standing with her Captain.
“Jonathan?” she questioned cautiously.
“You should be inside the Palace where it’s safe, Your Highness.” The Captain admonished in that soft voice she hated. Rena shook her head, just barely refraining from rolling her eyes at him.
“The fighting hasn’t started yet, Captain. It’s quite safe.” She said, eyeing her retinue. “What’s happening?” she wanted to know. Jonathan’s eyes followed hers and he sighed.
“It’s the King, after that spectacle at the wall with those Stone women, he collapsed.” He informed her. “I think the thought of losing, not only his home, but his entire kingdom was too much for him to handle.” He mused. Jonathan looked back at Rena, he’s expression becoming flat. “I don’t think you should be associating with Mason Stone anymore, Your Highness, she’s trouble. You would do well to avoid her and her uncouth sisters.” He warned her. Rena’s eyebrows climbed into her hairline as she listened to the man that protected her family all her life.
“Excuse me?” she asked, finding it hard to believe that he would presume to tell her who she could or could not see. “The only person in this world who has the authority to tell me who I can or cannot associate with, is my father. And you, Sir, are not him.” She informed him coldly.
“True, but in your father’s absence, I am responsible for your safety. I therefore, have the right to order you to stay away from Lady Mason.” He countered, refusing to back down.
“According to whom?” Rena demanding planting her hands on her hips, her tone challenging.
“Your father.” He responded to her surprise. “He ordered me to do whatever I thought was necessary to protect you. And that is exactly what I intend to do, Your Highness.” His face took on a determined look. “That means you are confined to the Palace. You are not to leave, for any reason or any person, unless the building is on fire and falling down around your ears. Is that clear?” He ordered. Rena stared at him, shocked. She couldn’t believe that this normally calm and compliant man was ordering her around like a petulant child. If he thought he or anyo
ne else was going to force her to stay locked up, then they were all in for a rude awakening.
Rena knew how strong and fast she was thanks to the brief lessons from the Stone sisters. She was fairly certain that even with the help of the guards, he wouldn’t be able to overpower her. Forcing her to stay hidden while everyone fought around her. She crossed her arms, glaring at him defiantly.
“No,” she said. Jonathan reared back in shock. He couldn’t believe the defiance she was exhibiting. She was normally so careful to at least maintain the appearance of a well behaved Lady.
“Princess, I’m warning you. I will use force if you leave me no other choice.” He threatened, gesturing to the men behind him. Rena glanced at them impassively, not in the least bit intimidated. Jonathan was confused. On the very few occasions he or her father resorted to threats to force her compliance, she would give in and go along with their wishes. But now she seemed almost bored by his threat. “It’s because of Mason Stone, isn’t it? She’s why you’ve become so defiant and disrespectful.”
Rena once again found herself gaping at the man in disbelief.
“I’m disrespectful?” she exclaimed glaring at him fiercely. “You’re the one who suddenly thinks you have the right issue orders to me. You forget your place, Captain.” Lifting her chin imperiously, daring him to follow through with his threat. “If you think for one moment, my father would condone using force on me, then you are more deluded than I thought.” Rena informed him. “Now, stand aside, Captain.” She ordered, taking a step to move past him only to have him block her path.
“I’m afraid I can’t do that, Your Highness.” Rena looked up at him and for the first time in her life, saw him as the soldier he must have been at one point. She didn’t like what she found.
“These men will escort you back to the Palace. Go peacefully and they won’t hurt you.”
Rena’s eyes narrowed at his words.
“You’re making a mistake, Captain.” She warned him. Something seemed to snap behind his eyes and he grabbed her arm, yanking her close.
“I don’t think so. I’m doing my job, Princess! Which is you keep you safe and see you married to Prince Devon.” He hissed angrily. Rena jerked her arm from his grasp. Easily breaking his grip.
“I’ll never marry that despicable man.” She declared vehemently. Jonathan stepped into her personal space quickly, bringing his face within inches of hers.
“You will marry the Prince. I don’t care if he is a spoiled, pathetic little brat. This marriage is far more important that you know! What you want, Princess, has very little to do with will happen.”
Rena’s eyes widened and her lips thinned in barely controlled rage.
“You cannot force me, Jonathan.”
“Oh but I can, Rena. This marriage will unite two Kingdoms and will supply Culville with superior weapons. It will give Eastland a powerful ally. The Kingdom needs this alliance!” Rena leaned in closer, nearly pressing her nose against his.
“There will be no marriage, Jonathan. Neither will there be an alliance. Because there will be no Culville!” she growled, gritting her teeth. Feeling a sort of satisfaction seeing him taken aback at that bit of news.
“Guards! Take the Princess to the Palace. Make sure she doesn’t leave.” He ordered, his face flushed red with rage. Rena had never seen this side of him. She felt like she was looking at a stranger. Three guards approached her as she backed up a few steps.
“Don’t do this, Jonathan! You don’t know what’s coming! There is a mutant army outside of this city. It will destroy everything and everyone!” she told him desperately. She couldn’t believe it when he laughed.
“Oh, Princess. How naïve you are. Culville herself is in no danger. Prince Devon will not allow that. As for her people,” he shrugged nonchalantly, “those that don’t fall in line will be put down.” Rena thought that Jonathan couldn’t surprise her anymore. She was dismayed to discover how wrong she was.
“You’re involved in this with him.” She realized, feeling sick. “How could you do this? You’re condemning all these innocent people to death!” she accused him before it occurred to her that there was no way he would agree to something like this without some kind of incentive.
“What did he offer you? What could he possibly give you that would justify the whole sale slaughter of thousands of people!?” Though broken hearted over his betrayal, she couldn’t hide her disgust.
Jonathan smiled coldly at her.
“Everything I have ever wanted. Titles, lands, a place in his court. Everything your father denied me. Making sure this marriage takes place is simply my contribution.” He told her bluntly. Rena closed her eyes sadly. She almost felt sorry for him.
“You fool.” Opening her eyes again, the look she gave him was full of pity. “You’ll never see any of the lands and titles he promised you. Once you’ve fulfilled your purpose, he will kill you.” He laughed at her.
“I don’t think so, Princess. Who do you think negotiated the marriage contract to begin with? Who do you think poisoned Mason?” he informed her with a pleased smile. Rage swept away any compassion she might have felt for her lifelong bodyguard.
“You’ve already proven yourself capable of betraying one King, Jonathan. Do you really think he’ll risk the possibility of you turning on him in the future? You’re a disloyal coward. Once you’ve secured me, your usefulness will have reached its end.” She glared, murder in her eyes. “If Prince Devon doesn’t kill you, then I will. For what you tried to do to Mason. You delusional, narcissistic, self-absorbed pathetic little man!”
“Enough. Guards, seize her. And try to be gentle, Prince Devon wants her unharmed.” Three of her guards smiled, circling her.
“I warned you, Jonathan.” She said softly, keeping her eyes on the men closing in on her. Reading their body language, they believed it was going to be easy to subdue her. They would underestimate her. Good, she thought smiling. Makes it easier for me.
She dropped into a half crouch, waiting. She didn’t have to for long, as the man closest to her made a grab for her but found himself on the ground with a broken arm. The move Diana taught her was more effective than she thought. The second guard came at her from behind. Wrapping his arms around her, pinning her arms to her side and lifting her off of her feet.
Reaching up as much as she could to grasp his forearms, she planted her feet before slamming her head back. Feeling something give way, she heard a satisfying crunch followed by the beginnings of a scream. Not giving the man holding her the opportunity to recover, she dropped her weight and snapped forward quickly. Sending the man flying over her shoulder to crash painfully on the ground, having been unprepared for the sudden change in direction and distracted by the pain from his crushed nose.
The last guard decided to rush her. She side stepped under his out stretched arms, bringing her knee up into his gut with ruthless force, making his feet leave the ground from the impact. With him bent at the waist, she clasped her hands together raising them over her head. She brought them down like a club as hard as she could across the back of his neck, feeling it snap. The man was dead before he hit the floor. Jonathan gawked at her in complete shock. She had effectively incapacitated three grown men. Without even breaking a sweat.
Ignoring for the moment that she had just killed a man, Rena turned, advancing on her former Captain. Grabbing him by the lapels of his jacket, she yanked him close to her face.
“If it weren’t for the fact that you’re in league with Devon and have betrayed, not just me but my father as well, I could forgive what you just tried to do. You have always gone to extremes to protect me. But I cannot, I will not, forgive what you tried to do to Mason.” She stated shoving him back, pleased with how hard he stumbled. “Once I’ve spoken to King Alexander, you will be arrested. I will have you escorted back to Eastland where you will stand trial for treason. Your King, will decide your fate.” She was every inch the Queen she would one day become as she spoke to him. If it we
ren’t for the fact that she was threatening him with execution, he would be proud of how she was conducting herself in this moment. He watched her as she proudly walked past him, her Royal Guard parting before her, bowing their heads in acknowledgement of her station. Rena was so consumed with indignant rage; she never saw Devon when he stepped out of the shadows of the first building she passed. Jonathan watched impassively as the Prince clubbed Rena in the back of the head. Hard. Sending her crashing to the ground, unconscious.
“Really. Is that any way for my future Queen to act?” Devon asked smugly standing over her body holding the barrel of the handgun he had used to knock her out. He smiled over at Jonathan as the Captain ordered Rena’s guard to stand down. “I mean, it’s almost disgraceful.” Captain Grimes returned his smile.
“Thank you, Your Majesty. I don’t know what’s gotten into her.” Devon nodded his understanding, waving him off.
“I do. But don’t worry. The problem is being dealt with. Now, let’s get her somewhere nice and quiet. Where no one can hear her when she wakes up.” While the two surviving guards took care of the body of their fallen comrade, Grimes ordered the Eastland soldiers to secret Rena out of the city and into the heart of the mutant horde outside the gates of Culville. Where no one could possibly rescue her.
Chapter Eighteen
Sylvia led the two Stone sisters to a back room in the barracks. She walked into the room, while the sisters stood guard at the door. Approaching the back wall, she hesitated, looking over her shoulder at Mason.
“Well? Where is it?” she pressed, puzzled by Sylvia’s obvious reluctance.