Once Upon a Quest

by Joanna Mazurkiewicz

  “Maybe something has happened to her,” I heard Tobias say. “Maybe we should go inside. This is quite worrisome.”

  Oh. My. God. They were not barging into my chamber. I was still naked, and I had no voice. Why couldn’t I speak? Oh. Because I was mortified. Couldn’t they just leave and come back later when I was decent? Dear God. This was not going to end well.

  “James, break the door. Catherine never sleeps in,” Lucy said. “She’s always the first to rise. What if she was attacked by a Drakin while we were sleeping?”

  “Eric, wake up!” I whisper-yelled, pushing at his chest. “We must do something. My sister and your brothers are just outside the door and they’re going to bust through at any moment.”

  He opened his eyes and a wide smile spread across his gorgeous face. I wanted to slap him. This was serious! Damn. He certainly did look divine and my nether regions responded. I looked down, chastising them. This was not the time! They had a mind of their own, I decided.

  “What are you talking about?” Eric yawned and pulled me to him. Not this again. We had a real problem and at any moment—fuck it was too late.

  Tobias’s voice echoed throughout the corridor. “Step out of the way, Lucy!”

  I shouted, “No!” just as James came crashing through the door, splintering it into pieces. The entire floor trembled and I was completely mortified. I jerked the covers up to cover my nakedness, but the damage was done. Eric lifted himself up and the covers fell to his waist, exposing his bare chest. I was going to die.

  As if this situation couldn’t possibly get any worse, Lucy peered inside the room, followed by Tobias. I wanted the floor to open up and swallow me whole.

  “Catherine! What in the king’s name… Dear Lord.” Lucy’s eyes wandered toward Eric’s bare chest and her face went tomato red. He was rubbing the sleep from his eyes, and there was no hiding the fact that he’d slept in my bed. Naked. All night. And naked.

  So much for having my little chat while travelling. Uncomfortable silence stretched for several long moments. I sat there, holding the covers, dying inside of utter humiliation. I was naked. Everyone was seeing me naked, wearing nothing but a thin coverlet and, in bed with a man—the man I loved. Dear God.

  James slowly picked himself up off the floor and clenched his fists. His chest was rising and falling in rapid movements. Oh, shit. He seemed pissed.

  “So that’s it then, I guess. You’ve made up your mind?” He took a step toward the bed and I flinched at his brash tone. “I’m not sure why I ever pursued you in the first place!”

  I felt horrible he had to find out this way, but I sort of figured after threatening to kill him he might have already known he wasn’t my first choice. Either way, this was indeed a dreadful situation.

  Lucy’s face went pale when the realisation of what had happened set in. “Catherine. You had relations with a dhampir… in a brothel. You’re a princess and soon to be queen!” Her voice became louder with each word. “You should be ashamed of yourself!”

  Tobias was attempting to calm her, but she was having none of it, continuing to shout and push him away. I hung my head and Eric was laughing. I was going to punch him. There was nothing funny about this at all. Not in the least.

  “James, I didn’t want you to find out this way. I’m truly sorry.” I looked into his angry gaze. “I realised I’ve had feelings for Eric from the beginning.” God, I felt like a right arse.

  Ignoring me, James pointed toward his brother. “She was mine, Eric, and you damn well knew it! This isn’t over yet.” He then turned and stormed out of the room, nearly knocking Lucy and James over in his wake. Damn. This wasn’t good. Not good at all.

  “He’ll be all right,” Eric assured me. But that certainly didn’t make me feel better about what was going on at present. Lucy looked near passing out. Tobias was holding her up and fanning her face. God, she was such a drama queen.

  “All right. Everyone, get the hell out of my damn room. Now!” I shouted, reviving a near fainting Lucy. “Sis, get a hold of yourself and leave. We need to dress and get ready for the day. Except now we have no door and everyone in this damned brothel will see our naked arses. Get out!” I glared, pointing toward what used to be my door, having had enough of this dreadful foolishness.

  “Well, Catherine, you certainly are not a lady and you sir, are no gentleman.” She huffed, forgetting her fainting spell and then turning to leave, dragging Tobias behind her.

  I flopped back on the bed and looked heavenward. Dear God. Could this day get any worse?

  “So, let’s have another round before they decide to come back.” And he wasn’t joking.

  I slapped him on the head. “We have no door!”

  Chapter 30

  Lucy insisted upon returning to the Southern Kingdom in a carriage. Tobias had thankfully been able to procure one at a moment’s notice. She was a princess after all and wasn’t planning on riding a horse all the way back to the castle. She simply wouldn’t hear of it. Tobias had placed a spell on each of us to cover our scent while travelling through the Eastern Lands, just in case we came upon Drakins during our journey.

  Lucy wasn’t speaking to me, and James had disappeared, taking Gregory with him. I felt a bit guilty because I never had a chance to properly speak with him. Eric couldn’t keep his hands off of me. He was acting highly inappropriate, touching me every five minutes. I just knew he was doing it to get a rise out of me.

  It was time to bid our goodbyes and leave the brothel; my heart sank into my chest at the thought. I was going to miss Bertha; she’d become more than just my friend, feeling much like family instead.

  “Thank you for everything, Bertha.” I hugged her tightly, her enormous breasts nearly smothering me. “I’m going to miss you. Are you certain you can’t come stay with me in the Southern Kingdom?”

  “We were destined to cross paths, my dear.” She pulled away, ignoring my question and looked into my eyes. “You’ve embraced your destiny and will be a most wonderful warrior queen. I couldn’t be prouder.”

  “I hope to see you again someday and please, do keep in touch.” I was near tears. I always hated goodbyes.

  Bertha laughed and patted my shoulder. “I’m certain we’ll see each other soon enough, my dear. You just never know when I might pop up.” She winked at me, speaking in her usual cryptic tone. God, I was going to miss her.

  Lucy was sitting in the carriage with Tobias, waiting patiently to get on with our journey. She didn’t realise the close friendships we’d made while trying to rescue her.

  After Eric bid his goodbyes, he grabbed my arse as I was climbing into the carriage. I elbowed him in the gut, because I could. He was such a caveman. My caveman.

  “Catherine. This isn’t how the future queen should be behaving. Honestly!” Lucy shook her head while Tobias and I laughed.

  “He started it,” I said. “And good thing I’m not a lady, huh?” I winked at her to piss her off even further.

  “Oh, you’re… just so, you’re indecent!”

  “I know.” Then I leaned over and kissed Eric quite indecently, I might add, right in front of her. That certainly shut her up.

  Eric gave me an amused look and then yelled for the coachman to head south. Bertha was waving while the other ladies shouted goodbye from the second-floor.

  “I’m really worried about James.” I glanced toward Tobias. “What if something has happened to him? He’s still in Drakin territory.” Eric growled, and I rolled my eyes. He had nothing to worry about; I’d chosen him. We’d certainly need to have a chat about his growling issue later.

  I caught Tobias staring at my sister. It was the same intense look Eric had given me in the beginning. Lucy kept pretending she couldn’t see him, but I was certain she noticed. I wondered what he would think when he learned she had two other interested suiters from the Northern Kingdom. He was going to have to work hard to gain her affections.

  “He’s probably having his way with some blonde in the
village.” Eric interrupted my thoughts. “Don’t worry, he’ll come around. His ego was bruised because you chose me instead of him.” Eric brought me closer and kissed me passionately. I knew I would never be able to get enough of my dhampir.

  I was breathless, and it was suddenly far too hot in that carriage. Eric could barely keep his hands to himself throughout the entire journey. I was happy we managed to cross the border in one piece and without any disruptions. Lucy kept reminding us of our inappropriate behaviour, saying it wouldn’t be tolerated in my father’s castle.

  For years I had thought myself unfit to be queen. Now, I knew I could lead, but I would lead in my own way. Things were going to change in the Southern Kingdom once the crown was passed to me. Lucy was in for a rude awakening. As much as I loved my sister dearly, she really needed to loosen up.

  The news of our arrival had spread quickly. As soon as we crossed the border, many people were leaving their homes to welcome us back. Lucy waved to everyone, smiling, letting them know she was safe and unharmed.

  “You know,” Eric said to me while Lucy and Tobias were distracted by the townspeople, “Tobias has it bad for her.”

  I glanced at Tobias who was standing near the window with Lucy; his hand was on the small of her back. She kept pushing his hand away each time he touched her. I had a laugh at that. It seemed awfully familiar.

  It was going to be interesting to watch the two of them together. Lucy was quite a handful, but Tobias was indeed a gentleman. I had no doubt he could win her over; he’d just have to step up the charm a bit.

  Nearly half an hour later, we finally pulled up in front of the castle. I flew from the carriage and ran toward my father. God, I’d missed him so. When I noticed he was standing with a cane, I took a step back and clutched his shoulders.

  “Are you all right, Father? Please tell me you’re okay.” I had tears in my eyes. He just had to be all right.

  “Yes, yes, dear, but I’m afraid we’ll need to have a chat soon.” He looked dreadfully ill and my heart broke. I embraced him in my arms.

  “Catherine, my darling girl, I didn’t expect this from you, all you all right?” he enquired, looking at me with concern. “Is Lucy with you?” Then I saw his eyes move past me and he smiled widely.

  Lucy ran past me, nearly knocking me off my feet, and hugged him.

  “Oh, Daddy, it’s so good to see you.” Lucy hugged him tight and then pulled away. “I’m all right and finally home! I have missed you so. It was dreadful. Simply dreadful! If not for Catherine, I have no idea what Julius would have done with me.”

  I watched as my father ushered Lucy inside the door, but my mind was in turmoil, worried for his health. It seemed he had taken a turn for the worse in the days since I had been gone. I needed to speak to him straight away about everything that had happened and warn him of the possible invasion coming our way.

  However, I didn’t want to ruin Lucy’s homecoming and decided I would wait until later tonight to speak with him. Father welcomed Tobias and Eric inside the castle, thanking them for aiding me in my quest and bringing his daughters home safely.

  My mind drifted off to James and Gregory. I was worried about what might have happened, and if Gregory was in fact a traitor. If so, he could be leading James into a trap or to his death. Eric and Tobias didn’t seem bothered by their brother’s disappearance, but I felt in my gut something was dreadfully wrong. I only hoped he would eventually return unharmed.

  My earlier plan to keep an eye on Gregory was now ruined which left me a bit uneasy. Julius was still out there somewhere, and I knew he would make good on his threats, I just didn’t know when.

  After our homecoming meal was finished, I made my way to my father’s chamber. Knocking once, I entered.

  “Daddy, I’m sorry to disturb you, but I thought maybe we could have a chat before you retired for the evening.” He was already lying in bed and he didn’t look very well. My heart plummeted to the floor.

  “Yes, come in, Catherine. There are some things I would like to speak with you about as well.” I went to him and sat on the edge of his bed, taking his hand in my own.

  “I’m afraid the kingdom may be coming under attack soon, and we need to be—”

  “Yes, Catherine, I’m aware. General Halton has informed me. This is why I need to speak to you.” He squeezed my hand, and I could see tears brimming his eyes. “Please do not interrupt until I am finished.”

  I swallowed hard and nodded. “Yes, Daddy.”

  “As you can see, I am not fairing so well. I’m afraid the time has come for you to accept the crown as I am no longer able to perform my duties as king.” He took a measured breath. “I know you’ve said that you have no desire to become queen, but my dear girl, the kingdom needs you. I need you.”

  “I understand, father.” Tears rolled down my face as the gravity of the situation hit me square in the gut. I was going to lose my father soon, and there was nothing I could do to change it.

  “Now, Catherine. I won’t have you arguing with me. It has been decreed”—His eyes went wide—“Did you just say that you understand; that you accept?”

  I smiled and kissed his forehead. “Yes, father. I do. I know my responsibilities to you and this kingdom. I will become queen.”

  The king’s mouth dropped open in shock. I believed I had rendered him speechless. He couldn’t say a word. I had a chuckle and squeezed his hand.

  “You see, father. There’s this thing called destiny, and it came up and bit me right in the arse. I’ve also chosen a dhampir as my future king. Eric.” I wiped away my tears. “You should probably close your mouth now. Would like a glass of water?”

  At that, my father laughed heartily, and told me how proud he was to have me as his daughter. This moment was bitter sweet. I had accepted my destiny a bit early, and hoped my father lived to see my wedding.

  Epilogue

  One Week Later

  “I’ve told you Jane; this dress is hideous! And it’s damn itchy. There’s nothing wrong with wearing trousers. It’s my coronation.” I pointed out while she was adding yet something else to my hair.

  Today was the day I was to become Queen of the Southern Kingdom. I was due in the main ballroom within minutes. Eric, Tobias, Lucy, my father and invited guests were waiting for my arrival. I would most likely be late if Jane didn’t stop poking me.

  “Princess, this is appropriate attire fit for a queen. You must get used to wearing such things.” Jane was having a laugh, thinking she could turn me into a proper lady or what society considered proper. I wasn’t my sister.

  “No, Jane. This is just shit. I am to become a warrior queen, not a prim and proper, fussed up, whatever it is you and everyone else want me to be.” I was near growling, sounding like Eric. “Dear God.” I looked heavenward. “Where is Bertha when you need her?” I truly missed her. She would have made me something fit for a warrior.

  “You called?” Bertha appeared right in front of me, and I screamed, taking a startled step back. She looked radiant.

  “What the hell?” I clutched my chest. “You nearly gave me a fright.”

  Jane was still screaming and then she fainted, falling to the floor.

  “Oh, my,” Bertha said looking down at Jane, “is she going to be all right?”

  “Yes, yes, she’s fine.” I reached out and hugged her tight. “I’m so happy you’re here. Please tell me you brought something decent for me to wear and, not this shit?” I pulled away and then pointed toward the dreadful white dress with puffy everything I was currently wearing.

  She snapped her fingers and a garment bag appeared in her hands. “Of course I did. I always come prepared. Now remove that horrific ensemble so we can get you dressed for your prince.”

  I stripped in a hurry, excited to see what she had brought for me. I just knew Lucy would think it indecent, and I was going to love it!

  Bertha removed a dress, looking much like the battle gear I’d worn to fight Julius, except all in white. I
t crossed over my chest with a long skirt that trailed in back, splitting up the middle. I could wear my boots! Dear God! I was in heaven. It was simply beautiful. I squealed in delight.

  This would be the new fashion for all the ladies within the kingdom. I would see to it. And… no corsets.

  “Oh, my. Thank you, Bertha! What would I ever do without you?” I began dressing into my gorgeous ensemble truly fit for a warrior queen. “What are you, my own personal fairy godmother?” I chuckled, buttoning my blouse.

  “Something like that,” Bertha said smiling. “You must hurry, dear. You don’t want to keep Eric waiting.”

  Once I was dressed, I took a good look at myself in the mirror. This time, I recognised the woman staring back at me: The Warrior Queen of the Southern Kingdom, and I couldn’t wait to rule alongside my dhampir.

  Bertha walked me toward the ballroom with a proud smile splitting her face. “I’m afraid it’s time for us to part ways. I’m proud of you, Catherine. Go, go and accept your crown.” She embraced me one final time and then vanished. I knew I’d see her again. She was part of my destiny after all.

  The royal trumpets sounded when the guards opened the grand doors. All eyes were on me when my arrival was announced. My father sat on the throne with Lucy to his left. When I glanced around, I noticed The King and Queen of the Western Kingdom; they’d arrived as soon word went out that I’d chosen Eric. Smiles faltered when they noticed my attire, and my smile grew even wider. This was certainly going to be fun indeed.

  To my right, I say my love, and my heart fluttered in my chest when his eyes took me in. Eric was standing next to James and Tobias. I never knew I could love someone so fully and completely, until him.

  James had finally decided to return, saying he wouldn’t have missed my coronation for the world. Gregory had stayed with him while in the Eastern Lands and kept him out of trouble. He was standing beside James’s parents’, smiling. I was happy to see the Drakin’s return, but I would still be keeping an eye on him. James apologised for his behaviour and hoped I would be able to forgive him. He even congratulated Eric and I on our upcoming wedding. Standing next to his brothers, he looked so proud, and I knew someday he would find a love of his own.