The Elf King’s Lady: Wildecoast Saga Book 2

by Bernadette Rowley

  “I’ve dreamed of a life with you and I wanted to share with you what I think it would look like.” Kain drew a deep breath and settled himself more comfortably. “We would be married, naturally, and we would escape to the country, perhaps on a small estate – not too far from the city, as you must practice your medicine. You are so good at caring for others.” His voice broke and he cleared his throat. “I’d raise horses. It’s something I’ve never told you but it’s my fondest wish, or was until I fell in love with you.”

  Now Kain wept, overcome by a dream he could never realize. Why am I torturing myself? But somehow it seemed right to tell her. “Eventually children would come, and we’d raise them in a world where elven heritage was an honor, not a curse. I think four an ideal number – two girls with golden hair, and two boys who will love and respect their mother just as I do.” He collapsed across Alique, drawing strength from her fragile body and trying to conquer the sadness and regret that kept welling up. Her arm crept around his shoulders and he froze.

  Kain levered himself up a little until he could look upon her face but there was no change. He sat up and the arm that had curled around his body flopped away. He gripped that hand and squeezed. “Alique! If you can hear me, open your eyes. Give me a sign, anything.”

  His brief moment of hope died as the frail body before him lay unmoving. There was not a flutter of the eyelids or a twitch of a fingertip, only the slow rise and fall of her chest beneath the blankets. Kain stared at her, trying to convince himself that she might have heard at least some of his words, that his voice might bring her back to them. But it was crazy to believe such things. He was getting very good at self-torture.

  Kain tidied the blankets, drew a deep breath, and left the wagon. He had to stay strong for Alique’s sake and for the kingdom. He had a role to play, or at least he hoped he still did.

  *

  The remaining days passed in much the same fashion: Kain spending what time he had with Alique, talking to her and even reading to her. It was just passages out of her medical journals, but he hoped she might hear the familiar terms and latch on to them. There was no repeat of the moment when Alique had touched him, nothing to indicate she heard anything he said. Kain’s spirits sank so low he couldn’t think of anything but getting to the end of this journey and handing Alique over to Doctor Mosard. He had tried his best and been found wanting. This waiting and hoping had worn him down to the point where he had all but lost his appetite.

  On the last day of travel, Vorasava approached him. “There is no point in starving yourself, man. The lady will live or she will die.”

  Kain glared at the captain. “She’s special, Vorasava. I don’t appreciate you being flippant.”

  “They are all special, Kain. There isn’t a man here who wishes to see a woman die in battle, especially one who is so brave and beautiful. But there is nothing you can do to change this.”

  “Don’t you think that’s part of the problem?” Kain said. “That I can’t help her?”

  “You love her.”

  “That’s irrelevant. Lady Alique and I can never be together. I accepted that long ago. It’s the waste of a young and productive life that eats at me. She was so good. Gah!” Kain threw his hands in the air. “Listen to me! I already speak of her in the past tense.”

  “You are merely preparing yourself for the inevitable,” Vorasava said. “There has been no improvement.”

  “I’ll never give up on her,” Kain said, running his hands through his hair. “Not until she is gone from this world, and I’m praying that will be when she’s an old woman.”

  Vorasava shook his head. “Then I can’t help you.”

  “I’m not the one who needs help,” Kain snapped. He stormed away to sit with Alique for the last time before they reached Wildecoast.

  *

  Kain knew desperation as he made himself comfortable beside Alique in her wagon. Soon they’d enter Wildecoast and all would change. It would be difficult to visit with her. The Zorbas would close in around Alique as would the King and Queen and Doctor Mosard. Kain would lose her, perhaps permanently. He had allowed himself to hope on this journey, especially after she held him that day, but with no further change, his faith had started to wane.

  The only way Kain had survived these last days was to lock himself away, concentrating on Alique and remembering her in her health. He’d relived the days with her on the road when they were taken hostage and the intimate moments when he’d dropped his guard and taken her lips and her body. The regret he had felt at taking her virginity was one burden he no longer carried. Kain had been her first and only; he had that to hold tight to.

  He seized Alique’s hand and raised it to his lips, kissing each of her fingers, inhaling the essence of her. “We’ll soon enter the city, my sleeping beauty,” Kain said. “I’m glad that the good doctor will care for you as you should be cared for, but I’ll miss you. Please know that I love you and will always hold you in my heart.” He choked on the words, finally allowing reality to sink in. Alique might die, and he wouldn’t be with her. The next time he saw her might be as she lay in a coffin at her funeral. Kain slammed the door shut on that vision.

  “I’ve treasured my time with you and wish for your speedy recovery. I pray for that every day, even though I’m not sure the Goddess will listen to such as me.”

  A shout came from outside – the city had been sighted.

  “I must go now.” He lowered his face and pressed his lips to hers. “Goddess protect you, my love.”

  Kain left the wagon, mounted Snow and galloped to the head of the column to join Vorasava.

  *

  The column entered Wildecoast amid cheers from the city’s residents. The bulk of Vorasava’s force was left camped on the cliff tops outside the gates and hawkers moved out amongst the soldiers to trade their wares. After two weeks on the road, many of the men seemed glad to see the merchants.

  Gwaethe’s elves camped with the Brightcastle force, furthest away from the city, but Gwaethe, Isiloe, Tuthariel and three elven guards entered with the wagons.

  Kain continued to ride at the head of the column, determined to meet whatever waited head on. Lord Zorba rode beside his daughter’s wagon.

  The force entered through the gates and continued up the main thoroughfare toward the inner castle gates. The sergeant on duty saluted respectfully enough, but Kain swore the man looked a little harder at him than usual. It was Grif Tyne, who had looked after him the night he got drunk. It appeared word had spread of his elven links.

  Kain shook off the pointless musing and focused on their passage through the city. Archers stood on many rooftops, and Kain pointed out the security and any notable buildings to Vorasava as they passed.

  “It is quite a splendid city compared to Brightcastle,” Vorasava said. “I’ve visited from time to time with official functions but riding in as part of an army gives a different perspective. The news of our victory over the elves has obviously come before us.”

  “The people do seem excited, though it doesn’t take much,” Kain said. “Wait until we get to the castle. The nobility really know how to make a fuss.”

  Vorasava frowned. “Mind what you say, man. I’m from a noble family, albeit one to the west.”

  Kain allowed himself a small chuckle. “I’d have never known!”

  Vorasava frowned again and Kain slapped him lightly on the shoulder. He could be friends with this man given the right conditions. “Ah, the gates lie ahead, and I for one can’t wait for a good stiff drink.”

  Kain saw Vorasava frown out of the corner of his eye but he didn’t care what his companion made of the remark. He trotted Snow forward and led the force to the gates, directing his soldiers to their barracks, just outside the castle compound. As the riders dispersed, they made way for the wagons, Alique’s in the lead. They had arranged the order so that seriously injured were in the first wagons. They would be taken into the castle so they could be close to Doctor Mosard. The less
seriously injured soldiers were taken from the wagons to the barrack’s infirmary.

  Kain stood off to the side with Vorasava, Snow having been taken to the stable. He watched as Mosard descended the steps and greeted Lord Zorba, before tending to Alique. She was whisked into the castle in seconds. Kain yearned to follow her. He was already bereft knowing she was locked away in that place.

  “Kain!”

  He was enveloped in a bear hug by Nikolas, and had to blink tears away. What is happening to me?

  Nikolas held him at arm’s length. “It’s good to see you again, especially after such a successful mission.” He turned to Vorasava. “Captain, we meet again.” The two shook hands.

  “Congratulations on your appointment, admiral,” Vorasava said.

  Nikolas laughed. “Thanks. I don’t know if congratulations or commiserations are in order. My cousin has been after me for months to return to the sea. I don’t like to let her win too often.”

  “The Queen is a very persuasive woman,” Vorasava said.

  “That she is. You’ll want your quarters so you can freshen up, captain?”

  “That would be kind.”

  “I’ve had a suite prepared in the castle and your closest aides have accommodation nearby,” Nikolas said. “The steward is ready to show you to your rooms.”

  Vorasava nodded and left with his aides.

  Nikolas stared over Kain’s shoulder. “I see Lady Gwaethe and her cousin are back, and this time game enough to enter the castle precinct. What does that mean?”

  Kain glanced at the elven women. Isiloe looked anything but relaxed, but Gwaethe had cloaked herself in composure fit for a queen. She’d need every last shred. “I had to reveal Gwaethe’s elven faction. She now insists on meeting their majesties.”

  Nikolas frowned. “Putting pressure on you, is she? Don’t let yourself be railroaded, Kain. You must make your own decisions.”

  “But that’s just it, Niko. I can’t act on my own behalf. This kingdom needs leadership and so do the elves. I’m the common factor.”

  Nikolas shook his head. “I don’t like it. You can’t possibly predict how Beniel and Adriana will react to the elves, let alone your other news.”

  “I’ve more important things on my mind at the moment,” Kain said. “I have to know how Alique is. Promise me you’ll keep me updated, no matter where I end up.”

  Nikolas ran a hand along the stubble of his jaw. “I’m sorry, man. I hope the lady makes a full recovery. Of course I’ll let you know of her progress when I can.”

  Kain nodded. “I’d kill for a drink.”

  “General Jazara,” the Queen said, joining them. “I am glad you have returned safely.”

  Kain bowed low, his gut clenching into several large knots. “Your Majesty.” He turned to King Beniel who stood beside Adriana. “Your Majesty.” He bowed again.

  Nikolas merely nodded.

  “General,” King Beniel said, “I suggest you tidy yourself and meet us in half an hour in the small audience hall. The admiral will accompany you.” The King stared at Gwaethe and Isiloe then turned to the Queen. “My dear, perhaps you could see that our elven guests have chambers prepared.”

  “Why of course, husband,” Adriana said. “General, Admiral.” She swept over to the elven women and their guards, herding them into the castle. Gwaethe threw a last panicked look over her shoulder as she disappeared.

  Brother! What shall I do? Gwaethe sent.

  Just act with your usual royal decorum and keep Isiloe under control, Kain replied. This is what you wanted, remember. Kain couldn’t suppress the sarcasm of that last remark and was rewarded with a burst of anger from Gwaethe.

  “Come, Niko,” Kain said, “looks like you’ve been appointed my guard. Let’s use the cavern baths. It could be my last time.”

  Chapter 20

  It was closer to an hour by the time Nikolas and Kain presented themselves outside the small audience hall. Gwaethe and Isiloe were already seated in the waiting room. Isiloe looked daggers at Kain but Gwaethe appeared at ease.

  “You will pay for putting her in this position,” Isiloe snapped, standing and shoving her face in Kain’s.

  “Isiloe!” Gwaethe said. “Be seated, and remember what I said.”

  Kain gritted his teeth. “Gwaethe insisted on this. I’d rather she not be here.”

  “Oh, that would suit you, wouldn’t it?” Isiloe said. “You could pretend she did not exist then.”

  “Do you hear yourself?” Kain asked. “I can’t win no matter what I do.” He turned to Gwaethe. Get her under control or she’ll spoil everything.

  I will try, brother, Gwaethe replied.

  You’ll have to do better than that.

  Nikolas guided Kain over to two chairs against the opposite wall. “A little spitfire isn’t she?” he said.

  “Feisty as all hell,” Kain said. “I think she hates me.”

  Nikolas’s eyes widened. “You think?”

  The door opened and Formosa stepped from the audience chamber. He cast Kain a smug look. “I’d like to see you worm your way out of this one, Jazara.” He looked at Nikolas. “Be careful who you associate with, admiral. I’d hate to see your career suffer further.”

  Nikolas started to rise but Kain pulled him back into his seat. Formosa smiled and left the room, his boots clicking on the tiled surface.

  Kain could feel the tension in his friend’s body.

  “That bastard has been after me for years,” Nikolas said. “I hate to see him elevated at your expense.”

  “Don’t worry, Niko. He’ll get his reward eventually. Men like him always do. In the meantime, you can’t possibly be implicated in any of this.”

  “I don’t care about that.”

  “Well, I do,” Kain said. “If I go down, I want it to be just me. Not you, and not Alique.”

  Nikolas slouched back into his chair, arms crossed. “It’s not right.”

  Vorasava was next to enter the waiting room from the audience chamber. “Lady Gwaethe,” he said, bowing low. “I trust you are well.”

  Gwaethe nodded, and only a slight widening of her eyes told Kain she was shocked that Vorasava should speak to her here. He studied his sister properly for the first time. She was beautiful, with a presence that was hard to ignore. Had Vorasava been smitten? Poor bastard if he had.

  Vorasava seemed to shake himself out of his study of Gwaethe, nodded to Nikolas, and turned to Kain. “General, I gave my report which was factual. Of course I had to mention your alliance with Lady Gwaethe’s elven faction. I think you should know that Formosa has raised questions of your parentage and your loyalty to the kingdom.

  “Only what I expected of him, Vorasava, but thanks for the warning.”

  “I cannot gauge the mood of the monarchs,” Vorasava said, “but I wish you well. You are a decent man.”

  Kain smiled. “Thank you.”

  Vorasava glanced at Gwaethe, bowed again, and left the waiting room.

  “Wish I’d had three ales instead of two in the baths now,” Kain said, straightening his uniform.

  The door opened and the steward called for Kain.

  “Call if you need me,” Nikolas said.

  Kain nodded and entered the audience hall.

  *

  King Beniel and Queen Adriana sat on thrones on the dais. A senior page was taking notes beside them. The steward guided Kain to a chair placed before the monarchs.

  Kain stood in front of the chair, awaiting instructions.

  “You may sit if you please, general,” King Beniel said. The King had lost weight since his brother’s death but some of the spark had returned to his eyes.

  Nothing like a crisis to bring you out of melancholy.

  “I’ll stand for now, Your Majesty,” Kain said.

  King Beniel nodded. “First, congratulations on your successful mission. Our objectives have been achieved and the dark elves pushed back as far north as we could have hoped. They also must have sustained a blow to
their confidence. One must think their campaign is in tatters.”

  “The loss of life was higher on our side than I had hoped, Your Majesty,” Kain said, meeting the King’s eye. “As for our enemy, they also had a high casualty count. However we don’t know what the total elven numbers are.”

  “Still, a good result, and the rescue of Lord Zorba will be a boost to the men. Was it ascertained why he was taken?”

  “He may just have been in the wrong place at the wrong time, but I believe he was being held as bait and also because he would be useful to their cause. The elves have some plan to breed better war horses and Zorba’s are the best in the kingdom. Lord Zorba also rode one of his best brood mares, and it is well known that the elves took four stallions in their earlier raid.”

  “Vorasava reports you have an alliance with an elven faction and that they were helpful in securing victory,” King Beniel said, leaning forward on the throne. “How did that alliance come about?”

  Kain paused, knowing his next words would decimate his credibility. “I’ve not told you the truth of my escape from the dark elves when the Zorba estate was originally taken hostage.”

  “Oh?” the King said. “Then I would hear the truth now.”

  “Lady Alique and I didn’t escape by ourselves, we were rescued by another elven party.” Kain closed his eyes, head down, wondering how much of the truth he should reveal. He wasn’t ready to divulge his blood links to Gwaethe just yet.

  “Why would this faction rescue you?” the Queen asked.

  “Apart from the fact that they seek to disrupt Faenwelar’s faction, they wish for the kingdom’s help in gaining ascendency. Their leader aims to defeat Faenwelar and unite the elves.”

  “And why would the kingdom assist this elven leader?” King Beniel asked.