Ties of Destiny (Curse of the Crown Book 1)

by Caitlin Taylor

  “Did you ever apologise to him?”

  “You care for him.”

  “I’m trying to get you to care for him. He’s... he deserves your acknowledgement.”

  “Jeffrey,” the Prince sighed, fingers massaging a temple. “I’m watched all the time. By servants, courtiers, guards. Every one of my actions is weighed and judged. There are spies at this court who report anything I do. My behaviour must be consistent in order for me to do what I do.”

  “Do what you do...” Jeffrey hissed. “Being cruel to those around you.”

  “If I start treating people differently it will become known. The last time...” The Prince paused and looked away. “I cannot let it happen again.”

  “You treat me differently.”

  “That’s because you are different. You have already made a reputation for yourself at this court. The way you greeted Lord Lucretius? He has not forgotten and is happily telling all and sundry.”

  “Lord Lucretius?”

  “You were playing with a dagger. Balancing it on your finger I believe.”

  “Oh, that one. Did it scare him?” Jeffrey said and grinned, the thought appealing.

  “You don’t like him?”

  “He’s a Lord. He’s condescending and thinks himself better than everyone else. What’s not to like?” Jeffrey said evenly, managing not to role his eyes.

  “He’s one of my closest allies. He too plays a role he doesn’t like.”

  “You should all start wearing costumes and masks,” Jeffrey sneered.

  “We do, they are called pretences,” the Prince sighed.

  “Is that why he was dressed in the western fashion? It looked ridiculous.”

  “He has as much choice in that as I do in my behaviour.”

  “I still don’t see why you can’t apologise to Kieron.”

  “If my father found out, Kieron would suffer.”

  “If you can talk to me without worrying about what your father might do, then you can talk to Kieron too.”

  “I told you, you’re different. The court sees you as different.”

  “So, you won’t then.”

  “I can’t, Jeffrey,” the Prince’s voice was pained. “Not until I take the throne.”

  “Your father doesn’t seem like the type that’ll give his throne up easily.”

  “You’ve no idea.” The Prince groaned, running a hand through his black hair in a helpless gesture.

  Jeffrey could tell he was troubled, agonised by his inability to do as he wished. Something struck him then. “I heard a rumour once,” he said quietly. “I was still a boy then. They said the Games would be back, the way our ancestors had them. There would be gladiators and other fights. With lions and tigers. I was so young, I didn’t really understand then. They spoke of massacres and bloodbaths. I didn’t know what that meant. It was after your father’s crowning, a celebration in the old style.”

  “You are lucky you did not have to attend them,” the Prince’s voice was barely a whisper, his head turned away. “The public didn’t share his appetites. He couldn’t repeat them. But he wanted to. And he was King now, all-powerful. There’s a small arena in the palace, no city folk allowed.” He swallowed hard, memories heavily lacing his voice. “I will never forget what I saw then. The things I heard, the screaming.”

  There was a long silence. Jeffrey didn’t know what to say, there were no words. Only a few years older than the Prince, he’d been a boy when he’d heard his father talk. How old had the Prince been? Hearing it had been disturbing, having to watch so young, unimaginable. Jeffrey wanted to do something, say something but could think of nothing. As he watched, the Prince closed his eyes and his demeanour changed. It was as if a wall was being built. When he turned back to Jeffrey, any hint of his previous pain had disappeared. His muscles relaxed, his posture easy, eyes open and cold. The transformation was startling. Seeing it so clearly, made Jeffrey sit up straighter, pushing his own memories away. How long had the Prince been doing this? Hiding behind walls, pretending to be someone he wasn’t.

  “Maybe next time you speak to Kieron,” the Prince spoke in a voice, as casual as if their conversation had never been anything other than pleasant chatter, “you could mention that he came up in a conversation you had with me. That I mentioned his loyalty is appreciated, that I value him. It’s all I can offer now.”

  “Thank you, Your Highness. I will tell him.”

  “There was something else I wanted to talk to you about. You may know that I’m leaving the palace for a few days. Typically, I don’t take personal guards on these journeys, mostly because I never trusted them. I do trust you. Would you be willing to come along?”

  “Your Highness, I am at your disposal.”

  “Forget that this is your job for a minute. Do you want to come along?”

  “First and foremost, I am a soldier, Your Highness, I cannot switch that off. There is nothing that keeps me here, however. As I said, I am at your disposal.”

  “Then I would be pleased if you could join me.”

  “As you wish, Your–”

  “Please, stop calling me that,” the Prince said and cringed. “If it’s not completely against your code, I’m quite tired of hearing it all day long.”

  “I’m not sure I could, Your Highness. It would reflect badly on you if I did not address you appropriately.”

  “Maybe you could try behind closed doors? When it’s just us, or Ignacio?”

  “I will try,” Jeffrey said and shrugged.

  “Thank you, that’s all I ask.”

  ***

  Preparations for the Prince’s departure had the staff in an upheaval. Bags needed packing, the car needed checking, staff assignments needed changing. Jeffrey spent his preparation time with the marshal and Kieron, who Jeffrey had successfully been able to have brought along. They poured over maps of the region, planning the path they should drive, and alternatives should they be needed, as well as learning points of note; towns and villages, nearby forts and more.

  On the morning of departure, they left early, right after sunrise. It was a long journey, even by car. Their bags were sent ahead, along with Kieron. The Prince’s own car was readied but held no luggage. Ignacio sat behind the wheel, Jeffrey beside him, the Prince lounging in the back. A few miles after they left the city when they were well out of sight, Ignacio pulled over and swapped seats with the Prince. Now they were out of sight, no one could stop the Prince driving his own car. A privilege he didn’t get to enjoy often, rarely being able to leave the palace for any reason.

  The Prince was certainly making the most of the opportunity, driving at top speeds, the roads largely empty, giving him free rein. The car’s top had been opened when they had stopped, allowing the wind to whip their faces.

  Used to military convoys that rarely drove fast, Jeffrey found the experience exhilarating. Any sideways glance at the Prince made the corners of his lips pull up. The Prince had never been so relaxed, and it wasn’t a front for once. It was pure unadorned enjoyment of life. When their eyes caught, the Prince grinned and winked at Jeffrey. Then he reached for the gear stick and switched, increasing their speed even more.

  Their journey would take the whole day but for lunch, they would stop at the house of a friend of the Prince, or so Jeffrey had been told. The Prince seemed to know the path well, for someone that drove so rarely. Without hesitation, he turned off the main road onto a dirt track. It went on for a long time but in the distance, a structure could be seen. The facade of grey stones offset by white bricks surrounding the windows. A tower made up each corner, one of them twice as large as the others. The entrance door was topped by an enormous window, shielded by a balcony above it. The pillars supporting the balcony framed the entrance door, making it look more imposing than it already was.

  Jeffrey couldn’t help a chuckle. It was not the kind of house he had expected.

  “What’s so funny?” The Prince asked as he pulled up the car at the entrance.

&
nbsp; “You said we were going to the house of a friend. This is not a house.”

  “Then what is it?” The Prince asked with a frown.

  “It’s a storming castle!” Jeffrey laughed.

  “But it’s tiny.”

  “Compared to the palace, sure. But it’s still not a house.”

  The Prince shrugged and smiled. Reaching for the door he got out. Servants had already arrived to greet them and show them inside.

  “Your Highness,” a man of sturdy build with white and grey hair came bumbling towards the Prince. Dressed in the court's fashion, the tight-fitting trousers and robe hinted at a powerful body beneath that seemed at odds with the man’s clumsy manner.

  “Lord Argyros, it’s a pleasure to see you again.” The Prince walked towards the man easily, leaning in to place a kiss on each cheek.

  “Your Highness, you flatter me. It’s my honour to receive you in my humble home. How was the journey?” He took the Prince’s arm in a level of familiarity that seemed disproportionate. While Jeffrey expected to be ignored, the shadow on Ignacio’s face, hinted that he was less pleased with not even being acknowledged.

  “Delightful as always,” the Prince chuckled, letting himself be led away.

  “You were driving yourself then?”

  “Every opportunity I get.”

  “I’m sure you brought an appetite. Lunch is ready and waiting.”

  “Thank you, my friend.”

  They had entered the dining room. The large mahogany table dominating the room could have housed half the court it appeared, it was set for three people.

  “We seem to be missing a seat,” the Prince observed.

  “Your guard may eat in the servants’ hall if he wishes.” The Lord spoke, looking at the Prince.

  Jeffrey felt tension throughout his body, the hairs on the back of his neck standing up. “Your Highness, I should not be leaving your presence.”

  The Prince frowned slightly as he looked at Jeffrey. “It’s alright, Jeffrey. It’s only lunch.”

  “With all respect, Your Highness, I disagree. I don’t know the house. I may not be able to find my way back here if there was a situation.”

  “Jeffrey,” the Prince chuckled. “I’ll be fine.” He stepped closer to him to whisper in his ear. “I’ve got my sword with me. I’ll be able to defend myself for one hour of lunch.”

  Jeffrey shook his head looking at the Prince imploringly.

  “Your Highness, my Lord,” one of the Lord’s servant had joined them. “The servants have a shortcut to the kitchens from here, to make sure food is delivered hot. It’s only a few steps. I’ll be happy to show your guard.”

  “Thank you,” the Prince said, nodding at the servant. Looking at Jeffrey he asked, “Will you at least check it out, Jeffrey? If you’re not happy, I’m sure he'll lead you back here or you can find your way the few steps.”

  “For the record, I still object, Your Highness. But I’ll go,” Jeffrey sighed. He nodded at the servant in appreciation, letting himself be led to the kitchens, throwing a disparaging look at the Lord on his way out.

  “You must forgive him, Argyros. He’s very dedicated and loyal.”

  “I know the struggle you’ve had with your guards. If he’s loyal and you’re happy with him, that’s all that matters to me.” The Lord’s reply could still be heard in the passage Jeffrey took, and the subtle undertone it carried.

  They walked only a few steps and entered a large kitchen, bustling with activity. An old stocky woman leaned over a silver tray, putting delicate pieces of red fish in rolls, filled with a white paste and covered with herbs. At the same time, she issued orders to two young girls, one standing at a stove, stirring a pot, the other mixing ingredients in a bowl.

  “Anna, would you have something for the Prince’s guard, Jeffrey, to eat?”

  “Another mouth?” She hissed, never even looking up. Standing straight she surveyed her work on the tray. Deeming it ready, she gestured at the servant. “Bring it up.” The servant did as told, taking the tray into his white-gloved hands and carrying it away. Anna gazed at Jeffrey. “The Prince’s guard, eh.” She looked at her work table and picked up a plate, laying a few slices of leftover fish on it, she added some of the paste and herbs, less delicately than she had for the men upstairs. “Start with this, I’ll have more in a bit.”

  “Thank you, ma’am. I appreciate the hard work you do.” Jeffrey took the offered plate and half bowed. She waved him away with a huff, gesturing at an opening through which Jeffrey could see a table, the servants dining hall. He took a seat and ate. The food tasted as delicious, as could be expected of food made for royalty.

  Shortly after Jeffrey had finished the fish, one of the girls brought him another plate, laden with meat and potatoes and vegetables. He thanked her and tucked in. When he finished, he brought the empty plates back to the kitchen. One of the girls took them off him, smiling shyly. He smiled back and winked. “You have my thanks, all of you. The food was delicious.” The girl closest to him flushed scarlet.

  “You’re kind, sir. I hope it’s not too different to what you’re used to at the palace,” the older woman said. She seemed more relaxed now, the main dishes must have been served. Before her stood a cake covered in powdery sugar. Ready and waiting to be served.

  “You’ve done an excellent job, I assure you. The food was well on par with that of the palace.”

  “Thank you, sir,” the younger girl said. “There is dessert too if you like.” She held out a little bowl filled with what looked like chocolate mousse. A strawberry sat on top, along with a leaf of mint.

  Jeffrey looked towards the cake still sitting on the worktable, the desert meant for the Lord and his guests. Still uncut. Rather than making Jeffrey wait for the nobles’ leftovers, she had made something only for him it seemed. He took the bowl, locking his eyes on hers. “You made this for me,” he said and smiled, letting it reach his eyes. “You are very kind. It’s more than I would expect or deserve. Thank you.”

  She smiled shyly, her eyes wandering over Jeffrey’s body.

  He suppressed a grin, understanding sinking in. Leaning back, he lifted a leg, pressing his foot against the wall, his knee falling outwards, the leather strips of his skirt falling open. Arranging himself in a way that she would appreciate, was about all he could do for her. He dipped the spoon into the gooey mass and tasted it. His eyes closed at the taste, a memory from his childhood resurfacing. Chocolate mousse had always been his favourite. He took another spoonful, devouring it. “You’ve outdone yourself, this is divine,” he said in a half moan, the taste better than anything he had eaten in forever.

  “Thank you, sir. You’re very kind.”

  Jeffrey could feel her gaze on him but ignored it, focusing on the desert.

  Once he’d finished, he pushed away from the wall, gave the bowl back with a wink and smile and returned to where the nobles were seated. They were in the middle of eating the cake he had seen before, a map laid out in front of them. He quietly took his post near the door, catching the Prince nodding at him.

  Their conversation continued in quiet tones. Ending only when the Prince stood and turned his attention to his friend. “Lord Argyros, thank you for your time, it has been an honour and a great help to speak with you. I’m am most grateful for your support and more importantly, your friendship.”

  “The honour is all mine, you will make a great King one day and if I can support you on your journey, I will do all I can. Your Majesty.” Lord Argyros bowed low, the way he would in front of the King himself.

  “My dear friend, I appreciate the gesture, yet others may see it as treason. You mustn’t put yourself in danger this way.” The Prince replied, taking Argyros gently by the shoulders to make him stand straight. “We will right the wrongs that have happened when the time is right. Until then, let’s be patient.”

  Lord Argyros smiled in acknowledgement and inclined his head. He also nodded at Ignacio before leading the two men back outsi
de, Jeffrey following.

  ***

  Their final destination turned out to be a private villa in a remote area with direct access to the beach. They reached it, as the sun neared the horizon, turning the sky shades of pink. The entrance to the villa was gated and controlled with what seemed like a complicated security system. From the gates, only trees were visible behind the fence. But once they had driven through the gate and left the trees behind them, a wide stretch of land opened up before them, in the distance stood an enormous white-walled villa framed by the ocean glistening in the sunshine.

  Jeffrey stared in wonder. “What is this place?”

  “The royal holiday home,” Ignacio said with a chuckle.

  “Holiday home... it’s bigger than most people’s real home!”

  “Yeah, but in comparison to the palace, it’s pretty small, right?” The Prince pointed out.

  “Right,” Jeffrey said with a roll of his eyes. “By unrealistic royal standards, this would be quite small.”

  Ignacio burst out laughing. “I think you may have hurt his feelings now.”

  The shocked look on the Prince’s face, made Jeffrey cringe. “Your Highness, I didn’t—”

  “Oh, don’t bother, Jeff. He needs to hear the truth once in a while. I’ve told him so often, he no longer listens to me.”

  “Just shut up, both of you!” The Prince hissed, the corners of his lips tugging upwards.

  “As you command, Your Highness,” Ignacio said, his voice overly formal, still grinning.

  As they came up the driveway, a man dressed in a tunic reaching to just above his knees came down the steps of the main entrance. He wore a thick leather belt and leather cuffs on each wrist. Jeffrey had little trouble recognising him as the man in charge of the servants and household. As Ignacio parked the car, the man stepped up to open the doors for them.

  “Your Highness, My Lord, welcome back to Casa Extraneo.”

  The Prince nodded and headed inside, barely even looking at the servant.

  “Thank you, Robyn, it’s been a long journey. Is everything ready?” Ignacio asked.