She glanced up at her husband. “What can this mean?”
A roar of joy shattered the countryside as the crowd saw their queen.
“I believe,” Ashtyn said with humor, “your loyal citizens were coming to rescue you.”
Nestled in her husband’s arms, Thalia smiled at her subjects as they gathered around Ashtyn’s horse. “Thank you,” she said with tear-bright eyes. “Thank you with all my heart.”
When Thalia entered the palace, she was immediately surrounded by servants. Uzza had food and drink brought in for the two weary travelers, while Lord Parinez dismissed everyone and led them to a small chamber.
Ashtyn quickly explained to the lord chamberlain how they’d escaped, and Lord Parinez beamed. “Your Majesty,” he said with a teasing tone that few had ever heard in his voice, “You are to be commended for sneaking the keys away from the guard.” He leaned forward and laughed. “As word spreads of your deed, you will gain even greater glory.”
Thalia was seated on a low stool and began to tremble. “You must also know, my Lord Chamberlain, I was frightened. Lord Sevilin is a truly evil man, and his mother even worse.”
“Yet you are safe now, Majesty, and all your subjects will celebrate your return.”
Ashtyn stood, tightening the buckles on his breastplate. “The queen needs food and rest, and I must rejoin my troops.”
Thalia came to her feet, noticing how weary he looked. “Surely you can rest first! That wound on your head needs tending.”
Ashtyn took Thalia’s hand and led her to the door so they could speak alone. “Remain in the palace, and do not go about without your guard. If Sevilin escapes my men, he will be dangerous.”
“I will take no more chances with our baby.”
His eyes softened, and he touched her face. “Rest.” Without another word, he walked away, leaving her staring after him.
Lord Parinez came up beside her. “He’s right, Majesty. You should rest now.”
“I fear for my husband,” she admitted.
“Majesty, there is not a mightier warrior in this land than Prince Ashtyn.” His face suddenly creased into a frown. “We captured the servant, Eleni. She awaits your judgment.”
Anger tore through Thalia. “Bring her to me at once!”
“Should you not rest?” he asked kindly.
“Nay. Not until I see the traitor.”
Evening shadows had crept across the chamber floor as Eleni stood before Thalia, her hands clasped in front of her, her head bowed. Thalia silently walked around her and then spoke, “I wanted to see what a traitor looked like, so I will recognize friend from foe the next time I meet with one of your kind.”
“Majesty,” Eleni pleaded, “have mercy! I have heard that you gave pardon to the rebels who fought for Lord Sevilin. Have you none for me?”
“There is a difference between you and the rebels: I knew them for the enemies they were, whereas you masqueraded as a loyal citizen. Surely you can discern the difference.”
Eleni raised tear-bright eyes to Thalia. “It was the gold, Majesty. Gold corrupts when you haven’t any.”
“And therein lies the malignancy. A person who can cast aside loyalty for gold is tainted.”
“What is to be my punishment?”
Thalia turned to Lord Parinez, who was watching along with two fierce-looking guards stationed at the door. “Where is the gold she was given by Turk?”
“It was placed in the treasury.”
“Give it back to her.”
The lord chamberlain frowned. “Pardon me, Majesty?”
“This person sold her honor for that gold, and she shall keep it. But this is my judgment on you, Eleni. You are to be banished from Bal Forea for the rest of your life. The time will come when the gold is used up, and you will understand what your greed has cost you.”
Eleni was sobbing and reaching out to Thalia. “Please, Gracious Majesty—my life is here. I know nothing else. Do not send me away!”
“Take her from my sight—keep her confined until the next ship sails for Rome. Perhaps the Romans will welcome her.”
Without a backward glance, Thalia left the room, closing her eyes as she walked down the corridor, listening to the traitor’s cries fade into silence.
A messenger arrived the next morning. The rebels had been flushed out of the stronghold, and many captured. Some had died. Among the dead was Lady Vistah, who had been thrown and trampled by her own horse while trying to escape.
There was no personal message from Ashtyn, but the rider assured his queen that the prince was in health and in pursuit of the last of the rebels.
As Thalia lay in her bed, she sent all her thoughts to the gods, beseeching them to put an end to this war. The people had suffered enough, and she wanted them to know what peace felt like.
Hot tears scalded her eyes. She was no longer the free-spirited girl who had driven her chariot into Alexandria that day not so long ago. Before too many months passed, she would be a mother. Her stomach was softly rounded, although she had not yet felt the baby quicken within her.
Thalia had little doubt that the conflict was all but over, and Ashtyn would be returning home. They had a country to rebuild—a bankrupt country where the people had barely enough food to survive.
She sighed and turned over in her bed, wondering if Ashtyn was thinking about her. Though they had been through so much together, Thalia had no knowledge of what his feelings were for her.
He respected her, she knew that.
He honored her as his queen, she knew that.
He was loyal to her as a husband, she knew that.
But was his heart still bound to the other woman he had spoken of? She did not know the answer to that.
Heavy-hearted, Ashtyn sheathed his bloody sword. So many of his countrymen had been slain in this useless conflict. And now the war was over, and he’d have to deal with peace. Weariness swamped him, for he hadn’t slept in four days. The last battle had been the bloodiest, as the defeated rebels fought for their lives.
There was one last requirement that needed his attention before Ashtyn could go home and lay down his sword. He dismounted and motioned to Captain Darius. “Bring me the prisoner.”
Moments later Sevilin was led before Ashtyn, his shackles rattling as he stumbled forward. Sevilin’s hair was matted and so dirty it was hard to see what color it was. His armor was bloodied and battered, but he stood erect, with a snarl on his lips.
“It is over, Sevilin.”
“If you expect me to beg, you will be disappointed. But I would ask that you meet me in battle so I can die with honor.”
Ashtyn met the cold blue stare. “I do not expect you to beg—I expect you to die like the traitor you are. I will not cross swords with you; that death is offered only to the worthy.”
Sevilin’s mouth thinned. “You think you have it all—Bal Forea, the beautiful young queen. But there are many who will always be loyal to me—they will never forget that we fought for a great cause.”
Ashtyn shook his head. “There is no one left who is loyal to you, and, if you are remembered at all, it will be as a defeated man. When Bal Foreans hear your name mentioned, they will despise you for tearing their country apart.”
There was a long silence before Sevilin spoke. His hands were trembling, and he went to his knees. “It’s her doing—it was her plan.”
“I suppose you speak of your mother?”
Sevilin dropped his gaze. “I am not sorry she died.”
Ashtyn turned to Captain Darius. “When this traitor is dead, bury him in the woods so no one will ever find his remains.”
Hearing the chains rattle as he walked away, Ashtyn felt his heart lighten. The people would soon be reunited under one banner. He thought of Thalia and the part she had played in the victory, although he doubted she understood how important that part had been. She had seen to it that the women and children had survived hunger, and she had given the men hope, and someone to rally around.
/> He frowned. Word was that eight Egyptian ships had been sighted on the horizon. He doubted there would be a fight. Thalia would not allow that. Her brother Ramtat was coming to take her back to Egypt.
To live without her would be like death, but he would not stop her if she wanted to leave. His only hope was that she would stay for the sake of the people … and for their child.
His mind was filled with thoughts of golden hair brushing against soft shoulders. Eyes so blue they rivaled the blue of the sky. He thought of making love to her and groaned. No woman had ever stirred his passion as deeply. He missed the sound of her laughter, and even the way her eyes sparkled when she was angry. He reached out his hand as if to touch her.
If she left him, he would never know another happy day until his death.
Whatever happened, he would be there early in the morning so he could ride beside Thalia to meet the arriving ships.
Chapter Thirty-Three
Bal Forea had never seen a sight such as the fleet of Egyptian ships sailing into the harbor. Frightened women scooped up their children and ran into their huts, barring their doors. Battle-weary men gathered what weapons were available to them, even knowing they would be useless against the might of Egypt. Although the rebels had been dispatched, a far more deadly foe was sailing into their port.
But for Queen Thalia, watching from the palace balcony, it was the most beautiful sight she’d ever seen. Eight Egyptian warships were entering the harbor, their white sails rippling in the wind.
She turned to Lord Parinez. “Send someone with a message to our own ships to take no overt actions against the Egyptian fleet. They have come in friendship, laden with food to feed the hungry.”
Lord Parinez’s forehead creased in a frown. “Perhaps they have come to take you back to Egypt.”
“My brother Ramtat will be on one of those ships, and he will have many questions.” She looked into the blue eyes of the elder statesman she had come to love. “I have a decision to make.”
“Do not consider leaving us. You are sorely needed by your people,” he said with feeling. “We love you, Majesty.”
“The war is over; can you say with assurance that I’m still needed?”
He reached out to her, but stopped short of touching her hand. “Gracious Majesty, you have done Bal Forea much good. But your subjects are still in need, and they trust you to see them through the rebuilding of the kingdom. This is where you belong.”
She lowered her head. “I had a life and people I loved before I came here. My mother was ill when I was taken from her. I fear her health might have worsened. I need to see her, and she needs me.”
Lord Parinez bowed low. “May the gods help you decide wisely.”
Thalia placed her hand on his blue-veined one. “Lord Parinez, you have stood at my side and taught me what it means to be a queen. You are very dear to me, as are the people of this island. Whatever I decide will be difficult.”
“I will see that your guards are made ready. I know you will want to meet the ships.”
“I must wear the royal crown to meet my brother—perhaps it will help him understand why I am here,” she said, rushing to her chamber.
There was a great uproar when the Egyptians came ashore, leading their spirited war horses down the ramp, their armor gleaming in the sunlight. The people crept to their windows, staring at the two resplendent generals who rode at the head of their troops.
General Ramtat wore his blue and gold Egyptian uniform, while Rome’s General Marcellus wore red and gold. Red silken banners of Rome intermingled with blue Egyptian standards, rippling in the afternoon breeze.
Thalia had just ridden out of the gates of the palace with her honor guard, when Ashtyn suddenly appeared beside her.
She halted her horse and looked him over carefully. Although he was dressed as befitted a general who was about to meet another general, he was weary, she could see it in his eyes. There was a gash on his cheek and one on his hand, evidence of the fierce battle he had fought.
“I did not expect you.”
He studied her face with grave scrutiny. “Did you think I would let you face your brother alone?”
Joy spread through Thalia, and she reached out to touch his hand. “Ashtyn, how glad I am the war is ended!” Unashamed tears dampened her eyes. “The people can live in peace at last.”
He raised her hand to his lips. “Aye. But after so many years of nothing but war, they must be taught the ways of peace.”
In that moment, Thalia recognized her brother riding at the head of his troops, and renewed joy burst from her heart. She dug her heels into her horse’s flanks and galloped toward Ramtat in quite an unqueenly manner.
When she neared him, she didn’t remember dismounting, but she was suddenly in Ramtat’s arms. “My brother!” she cried as he crushed her to him. “How glad I am to see your face.”
He pulled back and looked her over carefully, from the golden crown on her head to the royal purple she wore. “It’s true then—you are a queen.”
She was unaware that her own people were venturing out of their houses, though they were still wary of the fearsome-looking army.
“It would seem so.” She laced her fingers through his. “Tell me about the family—are they all well?”
“Why don’t you ask how I am faring, little sister?” Marcellus said, dismounting and pulling her out of Ramtat’s arms. “I had not thought to see you so splendidly gowned. And with your shoes on, too.”
She lay her head on Marcellus’s shoulder. “Tell me about Adhaniá. Is she well?”
“You can ask her yourself. Do you think she would have remained behind?”
Thalia was not sure she could take more happiness. “She is with you!”
“Aye. And Danaë.”
Thalia felt sobs building in her throat. “This is a blessed day.” She turned back to Ramtat, almost afraid to ask, “Our mother—is she in health?”
“That, too, you can see for yourself. Nothing would keep her from coming on the voyage with us.”
Suddenly Ashtyn appeared at Thalia’s side. Ramtat reached for his sister and pulled her to him, while Marcellus drew his sword and placed the point at Ashtyn’s throat.
Ashtyn had known he would have to answer to Thalia’s family, so he did not reach for his own sword, as instinct drove him to do.
“No!” Thalia cried, pulling Marcellus’s sword arm away from Ashtyn. “Marcellus, Ramtat, this is Prince Ashtyn, my husband.”
“I don’t think so,” Ramtat said, pulling her back against him. “I will hear all that has happened before I sanction such a marriage.”
“I have much to tell you, but first, let me calm my people’s fears.” Thalia looked at her brother pleadingly. “I beg of you.”
Reluctantly, Ramtat nodded, and Marcellus sheathed his sword.
“Have you brought food, as I requested?” Thalia asked, noticing the villagers were venturing closer.
Ramtat nodded toward the ships. “Queen Cleopatra sent enough food to feed this island for years.”
Thalia reached for Ashtyn’s hand as she spoke to her brother. “Please excuse us while we explain to the people why you are here.”
Ramtat glanced at Marcellus as his sister moved away with Prince Ashtyn. “She fears I will harm that man.”
Marcellus nodded. “She is wise to keep him with her. Did I not feel the heat of your wrath when I married your other sister?”
Ramtat was watching Thalia closely. “She is different.”
“Aye. Our Thalia is a queen in every sense of the word,” Marcellus said with pride.
“People of Bal Forea, please gather around, for I have much to say to you.” Thalia raised her voice so all could hear. “First of all, you need not fear the Egyptians or Romans. Both generals are my brothers, and they will not harm you.”
A murmur rippled through the crowd.
“Also, the ships are loaded with foodstuff from Queen Cleopatra of Egypt. Lord Parinez will appoint
an overseer to distribute the food fairly.” She turned to her husband. “Prince Ashtyn will now speak to you of glorious tidings.”
Ashtyn met her gaze, and then looked back at the gathering crowd. “We have much to celebrate this day. Not only have your queen’s kinsmen come to our island, but the war that has lasted so long and taken so many of those we love is over. Lady Vistah and Lord Sevilin are both dead. Take heart, all is well!”
After the roar of happiness had finally subsided, old Didra hobbled to the front of the line, pointing up at the sky, which was filled with hawks circling and riding the wind currents.
“The hawks have returned!” she said, glancing at Widow Craymon. “Just like I said it would happen.” There was glee in her heart, and a renewed strength in her aching bones. “You wouldn’t believe me when I said this queen would save us—but you can now see it for the truth.”
Widow Craymon’s eyes bulged as others pointed at the sky. “Aye, there has never been such a day,” was all the widow could manage to say past the thickening lump in her throat.
A stunned silence fell over the crowd as they watched the Egyptian and Roman soldiers begin unloading food from the ships.
Chapter Thirty-Four
It was a happy group that gathered on couches in a small chamber where they exchanged information on what had happened since the day Thalia had been abducted.
Ashtyn stood apart, near the arched doorway, his gaze on his wife’s face. He watched her laugh, he watched her smile, and when he saw how much she loved and was loved by her family, his heart ached.
Servants with downcast eyes served food and wine, while Ramtat asked the questions they all wanted to have answered.
Thalia explained to him how she had first been kidnaped by Turk. She caught her husband’s eyes as she said, “Ashtyn rescued me from that man.”
A short time later, Thalia was seated next to her mother, clasping her hand while they had a private talk. “You look wonderful, Mother.”
“My dearest daughter, I knew not what we would find when we arrived, but I find you happy. I am not wrong about that, am I?”
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