by Serena Rose
“Really? That surprises me. So, they have some form of government then? Or did the stronger, more barbaric ones force their ideas on the weaker?”
I almost told him that their system wasn’t that different from the Prince’s, but I caught myself. That probably wasn’t the right card to play. “I’m not really sure. I only know what I overheard, which wasn’t much. They kept us separate from their inhabited parts of the mountain.”
“Sensible. It makes sense to try to keep you as little in the know as possible, so you cannot use your knowledge against them.”
I nodded. “I was pretty much either terrified or confused the entire time. I never knew what was going on.”
“I think anyone would be much of the same in your situation. But you made it out! That’s certainly something to brag about. Tell me, how did you find yourself in that tunnel? I’m sure that has to be a harrowing story.”
“No, it’s nothing like that,” I murmured. Thankfully, I had anticipated a question like this, and had already created and rehearsed my backstory. “It was all luck, really.”
“No need to be humble,” the Prince said with a smile. “Please, I’d love to know.”
“The dragon I was given to was one of the group that hated the idea of the pens. He thought they were wrong, and would bring more harm than they would good. But he couldn’t say no when they ordered him to find a mate.
“So he would drink whenever it was time for him to…” I trailed off, forcing a ladylike blush into my cheeks.
Another assuring pat. “We understand; it’s alright.”
“And he would drink after as well. Eventually, he grew to trust me. He started keeping me in his presence longer, and I began to overhear things. That’s when I found out that their scouts had heard whispers of a force approaching. They were planning some sort of retreat, but wanted to leave behind something to push you all for even trying to disturb them.
“I knew that this was my gods returning my prayers. They were sending me a way to save myself, and stop hundreds from being hurt. So that night, I…” My breath hitched. “I seduced my master. It was strange, he seemed almost relieved. I encouraged him to drink much more than he would normally, and when we were done, he passed into a deep slumber. From there, I dressed and ran as quickly as I could to the entrance they had been trying to enchant. I never stopped; I was sure that they would slaughter me the moment I did. And then, I finally saw the light, and what looked like rows and rows of angels coming to save me. It was only then that I realized what was going to happen, and I tried to warn them away.”
“You’re a clever little thing, aren’t you? Turning his weakness against him.”
I am not a thing.
My temper was spiking at his condescending words, but I forced myself to think of other things. The sharp line of Gael’s jaw. The way he had felt pressed against my body. Myrik, and how he had carried me to what he thought was our escape, his heart beating against my ear. If I just thought of them, I could make it through this charade without betraying myself. “I know not about that. Only that I had to do something. I am glad it worked out as it did.
“As am I.” He stood, finally releasing my hand from his grip. He nodded his head to both Josiah and I, and I could tell he was getting ready to dismiss himself, when suddenly his eyes widened and his smile broadened. “Oh! I forgot to tell you! More of my men are returning, and they found more survivors! According to the birds they sent, they should be here within the day!”
I couldn’t think of a single thing that could have made my stomach fall farther. I fought valiantly to keep my expression hopeful and not let the horror show through. “That’s wonderful!” I eked out.
“I’m sure you’re anxious to see them again. I will have someone tell you the moment they arrive!”
“Thank you, Your Majesty. You truly are too kind.”
“It is the least I can do, believe me. My kingdom is in your debt.”
I smiled weakly, and he tilted his head once more to each of us before exiting, his knights in tow. I let out a long sigh and leaned back against the down pillows propping me up.
“It’s exhausting being in the presence of such powerful men, isn’t it?” the apothecary asked, crossing to help me settle even though I didn’t need that level of assistance anymore.
“Yes, it is,” I murmured. “And it doesn’t get any easier.”
*
I had to escape. I knew that much.
I couldn’t wait for these new survivors to arrive and have them betray me. Sure, it could be Avros, or anyone else who would protect my identity as a seer, but I wasn’t willing to count on that.
So, I spent the rest of the day plotting and planning. It would help if I wasn’t still a bundle of bruising from the tunnel collapse, but I suppose I had to deal with the hand I was dealt. At least I could walk now, albeit shakily.
I was actually pretty certain I could get rid of Josiah and leave the healing ward with little trouble. It was exiting the palace that I worried about. I knew nothing of its layout, or exits, or anything really. I didn’t want to slip out only to end up wandering around suspiciously until daylight and collapsing into a little puddle of exhaustion.
Once more, I felt like I was chasing my mind in circles, until I remembered there was a certain someone who would provide me with an excuse to get out of here and could work as a guide.
“Josiah?” I asked, stirring the man from whatever herbs he was crushing in his pestle.
“Yes, my lady?”
“Is the Duke of Marlonvale still in residence in the castle?”
“I am not sure, but I believe me might be. Why? Did you wish to see him?”
I smiled weakly at him. “If it is not too much of an inconvenience, I would love to request his accompaniment on a walk. I am finally beginning to feel a little bit too cooped up here—although you have been more than lovely, I assure you.”
“Don’t try to coddle the feelings of an old man now. You’re a young, beautiful woman; of course you want to get out and enjoy the company of a handsome man.”
“I think you’re plenty handsome,” I retorted sweetly. “But I appreciate your understanding.”
“Well I was young once too, you know.” He laughed to himself and slid from his stool. “I’ll see if I can fetch a servant for him. I’ll be back in just a moment.”
“Thank you, Josiah.”
He left and my stomach twisted with anticipation. Part one was a success so far. I just had to hope that the Duke was still around, otherwise I was going to have to use Josiah as a guide, and I had no desire to physically accost the man.
Thankfully, when he returned only a few moments later, there was a large, toothy smile across his face. “The gods are with us! It seems that he is still due to be here for several more days. One of the maids will return to us soon with his answer. Or, if we’re very lucky, he might just pop in himself.”
“That would be wonderful, now wouldn’t it?”
Josiah sat back in his stool, but instead of returning to his work, he looked at me almost giddily. “Are you sweet on the Duke?”
“What?” I blurted, surprised before I could recover. “No!” I realized that was much too emphatic of an answer, and looked down sheepishly. “I just…appreciate a familiar face from before…everything that happened, happened.”
“Ah, sorry if that came across as insensitive. You’re a lovely young woman, and I was just happy to see you expressing interest in something so normal. I would not blame you if you wanted to hole yourself up and never set foot outside again.”
“Oh no, I have far much to do for that.”
“Good.” He beamed at me once more before returning to his work, oblivious to the stress twisting in my middle.
The next hour or so ticked by so slowly, I almost wondered if I was stuck in one of those dreams where time never passes at all. But eventually, just when I was worried I was going to have to rethink of a new plan, footsteps echoed outside the door once
again and it swung open.
I flinched as the heavy metal slammed into the stone wall. I didn’t even need to look to know exactly who it was.
“Lady Mercedes!” The Duke of Marlonvale said, crossing over to me. “I am glad to see that you have recovered. I was afraid that our last meeting would be the only time we would ever have to speak, and that would be such a tragically short ending to our story, do you not agree?”
Ugh. What a pompous ass. “Quite. Imagine how surprised I was when I heard there was such a familiar face present. It brought me great comfort while I healed.”
“I am happy to hear that I assisted in your recovery. A little birdy told me that you requested my presence? I hope this little tumble of yours hasn’t taken away that fire that made you so interesting.”
I laughed lightly. “Oh no, my lord. It would take much more than that. Actually, I wished to ask if you would allow me to be so bold as to request your escort around the grounds. Josiah has only recently given me approval to be up and about, but I’m not quite myself enough to go on my own.”
The Duke bowed deeply. “But of course. I would be more than happy to, especially since our last stroll was so abruptly interrupted.”
“Thank you, it means quite a lot to me.” I gently swung my legs over the side of the bed, and held up my arms coquettishly for him to help me up. I could do this. It was just a simple game of flirting to get something I needed. Probably the oldest play in the book, right?
His larger hands wrapped around my smaller wrists and he hauled me up. He put a bit too much power into his pull, and I collided with his chest. I tried to pretend I didn’t know that it wasn’t on purpose, and laughed nervously as we parted.
“Sorry about that,” he murmured. “I guess I just don’t know my own strength.”
“That’s alright,” I chittered. “It’s nice to have someone a bit brawny guide me, just in case I slip.”
He guided me to just one of his arms and nodded so resolutely that my cheeks pinkened from the effort of not laughing. “I assure you, you need not worry about falling into anything other than my arms.”
I almost coughed up a laugh at that, but Josiah snorted from his side of the room and saved me from ruining my cover.
“Apologies, my lord,” he murmured. “The summer pollen does terrible things to me.”
“The trials of getting older, I suppose.” I breathed a sigh of relief that he left it at that. “So, shall we begin?”
“Let’s,” I agreed eagerly.
And then we were walking forward and passing through the door that had been the partition of my reality ever since I arrived.
The outer halls were pretty much exactly what I had expected. Everything was towering, and drafty and ancient. There were lush tapestries hanging from the walls, as well as paintings, sculptures and armor. And everything was very, very, very dirty.
I guess they didn’t show that side in blockbuster videos. For having so many maids, the palace could use a good bit of spit-shine and bleach to make things sparkle.
…I didn’t even want to think of what the kitchen looked like.
“So, where would my lady like to go?”
“I would love to see the gardens, if there are any,” I murmured. “Perhaps walk along the outer walls of the castle?”
“I can accommodate that, as long as your skinny friend there can keep up.”
“What?” I was confused for a moment, then realized he was referencing the cane still clenched in my other hand. “Oh goodness! I didn’t even notice that I had brought this along.”
“I’m glad it was a force of habit then,” the Duke smarmed at me. “I was beginning to think you doubted my ability to lead you true.”
“Oh, most certainly not, my lord.”
“Good. Now, where did we leave off, last we spoke? Something interesting, I’m sure.”
“So much has happened, I don’t think I could remember that in a thousand years,” I retorted. “But you’ve already heard of what’s been happening to me on my side, I would love to know what has been occupying your own time!”
“I don’t know if it’s as exciting as saving an entire regiment of the royal army,” he said back jovially. “But I didn’t get myself captured by some flying, overgrown lizard, so perhaps we’re a bit more even than one might think.”
“I’m sure if someone were to be as callous as to make it a competition, the difference in our paths would be quite noticeable.”
“Hah! Look at you, laying down pretty consolations just like an islander. I’ve only met a few of you, but you all could disagree right to my face and make it sound downright lovely.”
“It’s an art I do not mind being known for.”
He snorted, an incredibly unattractive sound. “You’re the talk of almost the entire castle and fiefdom. I wouldn’t be surprised if even that pitiful little village I first found you in has heard of your exploits.”
“The village!” I practically yelped before reigning in my tone. “Are they alright? Have they heard of me? Did they recover from the dragon attack?”
He laughed and patted the hand that was resting on his arm. I was quickly starting to hate that. “I’ve been far too occupied with matters of actual importance to check on the well-being of a tiny little slum.”
“Of course. How silly of me.”
We walked through way more halls than was ever necessary, and most of them seemed empty. I knew from history books that most of the servants were probably traveling through narrow, staff passages hidden from view, but one would think that at least there would be more nobles milling about.
“Where is everyone?” I murmured.
“This is the summer season,” the Duke answered. I could tell that he was really enjoying being the all-knowing guide on this little tour of ours. “Most are traveling to their homes along the sea, or even vacationing in your land. This is the time of year that the castle finds itself most empty.”
I nodded my head, and he went on about another tangent about the first manor that was gifted to him after some great act or another he performed for the previous king. I made sure to keep my eyes open and observe everything around me, so I could retrace my steps if I needed to.
Ages later, we finally emerged into an open hall, with arched ceilings that were flooded with beautiful sunlight. We strolled down the length, and I took deep breaths of the fresh air.
It wasn’t like the healing ward had been particularly claustrophobic—especially not compared to the recent rock collapse I was in, or the cavernous city I had been living in—but even a well ventilated and illuminated room could not take the place of real, actual outdoors.
“I was sure the Prince was going to hog you all to himself,” the Duke continued, and I wondered just how much of his ramblings I had missed. “But I was pleasantly surprised when one of the maids delivered that you wanted to see me and were available to see.”
“The Prince is very generous,” I murmured. “And far too busy to occupy my time unfairly.”
“True, I suppose. But I know if I heard of a woman from a faraway land who somehow survived and almost escaped our greatest enemy, I certainly wouldn’t want her leaving my side. You must have a treasure trove of useful knowledge stored up there.”
“No. Nothing like that,” I assured him.
But then we were stepping out into direct sunlight, and I stopped in my tracks. God, I had missed this.
I tilted my head up, letting the rays caress my face. It poured over me as liquid gold and I took a deep breath, letting the summer air fill my lungs and rejuvenate me.
“You look quite content there,” the Duke said.
“I am,” I answered. “As content as one can be considering the situation.” I lowered my head and examined my surroundings with new eyes. We were at the front of what had to be a garden, with high topiary walls stretching out far beyond my sight. Over the tops of the cerulean partitions, I saw numerous willows, and blossoming trees. It was quite beautiful, and I co
uldn’t imagine what it must look like on the inside.
“Is there a place to sit inside?”
“Of course. That’s the point of gardens, isn’t it? To sit and repose on the beauty and incredible neediness of nature.”
“I suppose.”
“Come,” he said, pulling me along. “I know of a lovely place by the fountain. It should be fairly private as well, considering the season.”
I let him lead me along. And I was right, it was that much more beautiful on the inside of the bushy walls. The carefully sculpted path was winding and curved in on itself, but I didn’t mind the meandering cobblestone walkway. On either side were hundreds upon hundreds of beautiful blooms, cultivated to perfection.
I saw dahlias and marigolds, roses and beardtongue. It was like a painter had dumped their entire palate in generous puddles, leaving a beautiful, living creation for all to enjoy. I could easily see anyone who was troubled in the palace coming here to reflect, and puzzle over anything that may be occupying their thoughts. I could only hope that it would be as productive for me.
A trumpet sounded through the air, and I full-body jolted, my mind flashing back to the tunnel that had almost been my end.
“What was that?” I cried, my heart in my throat. I tried to tell myself that I was fine. That I was safe and out in the open. But my mind wouldn’t listen.
“Calm yourself, Lady Mercedes. It’s just the criers announcing that the soldiers we were waiting for have arrived with the other survivors.”
Oh no. My time had just cut down from potentially hours to maybe minutes. I just hoped I would luck out and maybe the survivors they were toting were either unconscious or not the ones who would rat me in.
“Oh, how silly of me.” I tried to think of a quick distraction, so I pointed to the closest brilliantly colored flower. “What kind of blossom is this?”
The Duke didn’t indicate whether he bought the abrupt transition or not. “Trust a woman to be enraptured by some pretty petals.”