Small groups of men and women stood conversing or laughing as servants quietly moved between them with trays of food and wine. Several looked up at my noisy descent. Those who met my eyes, smiled warmly before redirecting their attention to their companions.
The sun streamed through large windows, making the glass goblets on burnished trays or held aloft by genteel hands sparkle. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. Another dramatic change from Argelle. Everything was fresh and clean. I was beginning to be thankful for my new assignment.
I didn’t realize I’d stopped until I looked up to see Mico waiting on me. Embarrassed, I quickly rejoined him. Mico gave me a warm smile and we continued. It seemed a straightforward route. There no confusing turns, which I appreciated as I tended to get lost in rambling buildings.
The walls were plastered and artfully painted, depicting beautiful couples, forests, strange creatures and rousing battle scenes. The frescoes glowed and some appeared to move in the golden sunlight streaming through large, sparkling, glass windows. I’d never seen such large pieces of glass and wondered at the skill of the Florenzans.
Mico stopped before an unguarded, heavily carved door. He rapped twice and I heard a strong voice bade us enter. My escort opened the door, bowed and stepped back to allow me to enter. As soon as I crossed the threshold, I crossed my right arm across my body and bowed low.
“Lord Pierce-Seahorn, please approach us,” a warm, deep voice commanded.
Smiling, I stood up and got my first look of King Stefano and, it turned out, his family. King Stefano had dark brown hair with warm brown eyes while Queen Marguerite was fair with deep blue eyes that were equally warm. Their sons flanked their parents and smiled welcomingly.
I returned their smiles. I studied the room as I approached the royal family. The walls were painted in a warm, pale yellow that made me think of sunlight. The furnishings were sparse, but elegant and rich looking. I kept my pace measured but quick. I bent my leg before them and bowed again.
“I find we are already in your debt, Lord Pierce-Seahorn.”
“I hope you will call me Conran, Your Majesty.”
“Certainly, Conran. Will you take a seat?”
Nodding, I sank into the heavily carved, plush chair positioned before him. I almost sighed in contentment. Everything appeared to be designed for luxurious comfort. I noted that Matteo was beside his father while Michele was on the other side next to his mother.
“Thank you for providing refreshments upon our arrival. I think we all needed it.”
“Thank you for protecting our sons,” Queen Marguerite said in a low, almost musical voice. She leaned forward to better meet my eyes. “We heard much of your powers, but didn’t expect a demonstration so soon.”
“I never expected to have to use it so soon,” I responded without thinking. Their spontaneous laughter reassured me.
I found myself relaxing more. Matteo’s face was stiff and taut. I felt sure he was worried about his horse. Michele’s face pinkened at my remark, but his eyes danced when he met mine. I couldn’t help smiling in response, but wondered if he took anything seriously. Queen Marguerite glanced at her sons and I saw the love in her eyes.
“Matteo, will you take your brother to his lessons?”
Silently, Matteo stood, bowing to his parents, then me before he left the antechamber.
“I greatly appreciate you protecting our sons. Michele still acts before thinking of the consequences.”
“He reminds me of my little brother, Joseph. He keeps my parents busy, but he is so winsome that you can’t stay mad at him.”
Queen Marguerite smiled and nodded. Her neck was long and graceful. She seemed the epitome of graceful womanhood. I wished I was an artist, so I could paint her.
“I see why King Drexel wrote that he would miss your presence at his court,” King Stefano commented with a dimpled smile.
“That was kind of him but wait until you meet Nicholas. He has more charm in one toe than I have in my entire body!”
“The ladies of our court will be happy to have both of you. We currently have a dearth of eligible men,” Queen Marguerite said with a wry look at her husband.
“Many of our men are out on training exercises,” King Stefano explained with a sideway look at his wife.
“I’m afraid that Nicky is engaged. His fiancée should arrive within the month.”
“That will sadden many a maiden,” Queen Marguerite said with a laugh.
I decided now was as good a time as any to discuss King Drexel’s concerns and proposal.
“Your Majesty, King Drexel proposes an alliance between our two kingdoms with mutual military support. There is an increased threat from the sea that may soon impact Florenza. I hope we can discuss it at your earliest convenience.”
A small frown creased King Stefano’s forehead. I hoped I hadn’t brought the subject up too quickly but decided to wait before saying more. I wanted to give the king time to think.
“Does that mean we will have even fewer men to protect us?” Queen Marguerite asked, her voice rather dry.
“King Drexel would initially provide one thousand men with arms, fifty cannons and five hundred horses. Argelle will supplement your forces in increments of five hundred men until the threat is eliminated. He is also negotiating with Westland and Greater Ahistrone. These marauders are fearsome.”
“That is a generous proposal.” He paused before continuing, “I have received troubling reports. Do you know what support Westland and Greater Ahistrone can provide?”
“Not yet, Your Majesty. I will let you know as soon as I have the details.”
“What does Argelle require from us?”
“What do you propose, King Stefano?”
King Stefano smiled, a deep slash appearing on each side of his mouth.
“I understand this is your first diplomatic posting.”
“It is, Your Majesty.”
King Stefano’s smile deepened. “You already appear a very astute diplomat. We need to discuss this at my council meeting but I see no reason why Florenza cannot match Argelle’s forces.”
“Do you think two thousand men and twenty galleons is feasible? Argelle can complement your sea forces with five galleons.”
“Two thousand…,” King Stefano rubbed his bearded chin. “It would require recalling everyone from the exercises but it is possible.”
“There is no need to make a decision now. I know you need to consult with your advisors.”
King Stefano laughed. “Never stop pressing your advantage, Conran! King Drexel would be disappointed.”
I relaxed and smiled in response.
“Can Argelle provide additional galleons to support us?”
“I think we could provide two more, but it will depend on the other two mutual support agreements. Perhaps we could note that codicil in our treaty?”
“That would be agreeable. I see no reason why I cannot have the agreement drawn up as we have discussed. I will offer it to my council, but I would like you present to provide your arguments as to why it is necessary for both Argelle and Florenza. Would tomorrow be agreeable to you?”
Staggered at the rapidity of our exchange, I had to swallow and breathe deeply before I could respond.
“That is entirely agreeable, Your Majesty.”
King Stefano smiled and leaned back on his throne. He signaled a page over.
“Bring wine and goblets for us and our guest.”
With a low bow, the page backed out of the room.
“Now that business is concluded, we want to know you. Please tell us about yourself,” Queen Marguerite requested in her lovely voice.
I found it easy to talk to them, and Queen Marguerite’s obvious interest and warmth helped me relax. Leaning back in my chair, I recounted my early childhood, how Mother met Brendan and my time at court. The only interruption was the servant bringing a crystal decanter of wine and three sparkling glass goblets on a tray.
Queen Marguerite
gracefully handed her husband and me a glass after the servant carefully poured each. After all the talking, a glass of wine would be welcome. King Stefano waited until his wife had her drink before lifting his glass to me.
“Congratulations on your peerage. May your time at the Court of Florenza be rewarding and bring you happiness, Lord Pierce-Seahorn.”
We clinked and the glasses rang merrily. I took a sip after admiring the ruby color in the streaming sunlight. The flavor was sweet and refreshing.
“This is delicious.”
“Thank you. Not everyone appreciates our court wine. It tends to be too sweet for many of our court guests.
“I prefer sweet rather than dry. My stepfather says it means I don’t truly appreciate good wine,” I said, smiling.
Both their majesties laughed appreciatively. Reassured, I decided to ask what had been on my mind since I met their men.
“I noticed your captain is a shapeshifter. I have never met one before.” I paused to judge their response. Queen Marguerite’s drink paused halfway to her lips. She seemed startled.
“No one knows what Captain Andreas is. He told me and I promised to keep his secret. He’s never harmed anyone. How did you know?”
“I saw it as a shimmer around him. I had never seen one before. Lady Ilena explained it to me.”
“I feel left out of this conversation. Can you tell me what you’re talking about, Husband?”
King Stefano looked uncomfortable. I immediately regretted my directness.
“My apologies, Your Majesty. I never should have been so blunt.”
“No one else has ever realized Captain Andreas is a werewolf,” King Stefano watched his queen as he responded. “I would have told you if I thought it was a matter for concern, Dearest.”
The warm look of understanding they shared reminded me of Mother and Brendan. I felt uncomfortable; an interloper in a personal moment. Since I couldn’t slip away, I surveyed the throne room as I sipped the refreshing wine. I closed my ears to their soft murmuring. A servant quietly entered and set a fruit of tantalizing fruit on a low table between the royal couple.
“Lord Pierce-Seahorn, would you like some fruit?” Queen Margarite asked.
“Thank you,” I said as I reached for a golden apricot. “I apologize for my lack of tact. I should have been more discreet as to my inquiry.”
“I appreciate your forthrightness. I have an abhorrence of subterfuge.” She paused before looking steadily at me. “I hope you will always be honest and direct with us.”
“It is a bad habit of mine, so I can assure you of my complete honesty.”
King Stefano snorted and grinned at me. I couldn’t help grinning back before I bit into the apricot. I chewed slowly to savor the sweet, juicy fruit.
“It seems you have finally found one as childish as you, my love,” Queen Margarite interjected dryly.
“Not childish. Simply a well-developed sense of fun,” the king retorted as he lay his hand over his wife’s.
“I need to ensure the banquet room is ready for Lord Conran Pierce-Seahorn’s party. It will give you more time to know each other.”
As warm as Queen Marguerite was, the atmosphere lightened with her departure. Without asking, King Stefano signaled a silent page forward to refill our glasses. The page had been so discreet that I’d failed to notice him standing in the far corner. Casually, I glanced around and noted a guard at each corner. I felt disappointment in my lack of awareness. Something must have shown on my face.
“What is it, Conran?”
“I can’t believe I didn’t notice your servant and guards earlier, Sire.”
“They are trained to be discreet, so I’m rather pleased such a talented young man missed them. I have never been to Argelle. How did you enjoy your time at King Drexel’s court?”
“King Drexel is very fair and gave me many opportunities I never would have had otherwise. His castle is very hectic and much darker than yours,” I blurted without thinking. I felt my face warm in embarrassment. “Our land has harsh winters. I think that is why the walls of his castle are thick with few windows.”
I forced myself to stop talking before I said something I would regret. I certainly did not want to say anything against Queen Drusilla. That would not be seemly.
“I have visited some northern castles. They can be stuffy and smoky in the winter,” King Stefano commented diplomatically.
I smiled at him in appreciation. I didn’t want him to think me an ungrateful advisor of King Drexel’s. Slowly I sipped the sweet, rich wine.
I was fascinated by the assortment of fruit and cheese on the plate laid on the tray between us. I had only seen grapes once in a painting, so I reached out to pick a small bunch of the shiny grapes. They were juicy and sweet. I noticed King Stefano watching me with a smile.
“I have never tasted such wonderful fruit,” I admitted. “I have only seen a painting with grapes in it. I love these.”
King Stefano smiled. “We are blessed with rich soil and reliable rain. We have orchards and extensive gardens just outside this room. Would you like to see them while we wait for dinner?”
“Very much,” I said, standing. I was careful to step down and below the king. “I prefer walking to sitting very long.”
A laugh boomed from King Stefano as he set his glass down and rose. “You may not enjoy our dinners as they tend to be very long. We love food and enjoy lively conversations, so see no need to hasten the experience.”
“It sounds like the formal dinners at Argelle.” I saw no reason to mention that the conversations usually veered to malicious gossip. I hoped the conversations of Court of Florenza matched the light atmosphere I’d noted thus far.
The guards quickly, but quietly, moved before and behind King Stefano as we moved out of the chamber. We went up a short, airy hallway lit by windows cut into the creamy walls. I noticed the paved flooring was swept and still damp from being recently mopped.
Much as I disliked her, Queen Drusilla had transformed King Drexel’s court into a cleaner place. Unfortunately, she had also terrorized all the servants – going so far as to disfigure one of her ladies in waiting. I would not miss the oppressive ambiance or her barely veiled hatred. I must have unconsciously sighed.
“What is troubling you, Lord Pierce-Seahorn?”
“Please call me Conran. Your court reminds me of my home. It makes me a little homesick.”
“I understand Lord Seahorn’s hall is not too distant from here. Your family is welcome here and we will grant you leave to visit them. Would once a month be sufficient?”
At first, I could only nod wordlessly. I had never expected such a gracious offer. Swallowing and clearing my throat, I looked up to see sympathy in his dark brown eyes.
“Thank you. It is very gracious of you, Your Majesty. I will do all I can to be deserving of such generosity.”
“I have no doubt of that, Conran. You proved yourself before you ever arrived to the Court of Florenza. Perhaps my sons can accompany you occasionally. It would do them good to get away from court.”
“It would be my pleasure, Sire.”
Privately, I hoped it would not require a large contingent of guards as that would cause an undue hardship on Mother. When the time came, I would do my best to assure King Stefano and Queen Marguerite that Brendan’s men would provide adequate protection.
The King’s lead guard set a fast pace up a wide gravel path and around the corner of the building. Bright sun streamed down, illuminating the neatly laid out orchard spread out before us. About a dozen people were working between bright green trees that stretched down a gently sloping hill.
The women wore aprons and covered their hair with brightly colored scarves. A clear voice filled the air with song as the men and women picked and put soft orange fruit into wide woven baskets. It was a beautiful, peaceful scene.
I looked past the large orchard and saw large fields of twisted vines spread across the opposite hill in long, tidy rows. More wor
kers appeared to be tending the vines. Everything looked well maintained and tidy.
“What are those vines?”
“Grapes for the wine we produce. The grapes you ate came from our southern field. They are much sweeter and I cannot resist having some brought to the castle for eating.”
While King Stefano spoke, I admired the rolling hills under the bright blue sky, unbroken by any clouds. The sun was warm on my head and the scent of the nearby ocean wafted across the land. I couldn’t help smiling.
“What do you think, Conran?”
“I think it is beautiful, Sire. It seems so peaceful, too.”
“We have been blessed by many years of peace, but there have been troubling reports of small groups of armed men. That is why I deployed many of our men to the north and west to train and investigate the reports. Perhaps the same marauders King Drexel is concerned about. The attack today troubles me.”
“I should have found the third man. I hope Prince Matteo’s horse recovers.”
“You aren’t responsible and it looks promising for Matteo’s horse. The head groomsman is staying with him but reported that he was surprised at how well he is doing. Prince Matteo has been checking on him so often that I expect him to sleep with him tonight.”
“I understand how he feels. I would do the same myself.”
A sudden chill made the hairs on my neck rise, startling me. I looked around and saw a tall, gaunt man approaching us. He was dressed severely in black with long black hair falling to his shoulders.
Something about the man made me uneasy. Absently, I stroked the Druid’s egg hanging around my neck. ‘Witch,’ I murmured to myself. Just what kind of people did King Stefano surround himself with? No wonder he seemed nonplussed about my power.
King Stefano turned to follow the direction of my eyes. I watched the king’s eyes darken as his lips pressed tight. I felt his tenseness and immediately cast a protective spell, not bothering to hide my hand movements from the witch.
The Sigil of Sobek: Book 2 The Chronicles of Conran Page 13