Chapter 9

Hearing Anwen yell Princess Meira’s name, Maddoc and Brennan turned to look. Anwen jumped towards the princess, wrapping her arms around her as they collided. As they both fell, Maddoc saw an arrow fly in and hit Anwen’s leg. He heard Brennan shout mix with his own as he immediately moved towards Anwen.

“My ankle,” shouted Princess Meira from the ground. “I think you broke my ankle, you stupid girl.”

Maddoc paid her no mind. He knelt down next to Anwen with Brennan. Brennan looked at her leg, while Maddoc took her hand and moved her hair out of her face. Her eyes were closed, and she was breathing heavily. He was aware Brennan was doing something as Anwen’s eyes opened while she groaned.

“Do not move, Anwen,” said Brennan gently. “I have to be very careful removing this arrow. It will take a minute.”

“Are you sure that is wise?” asked Maddoc. “Do you know what you are doing?”

“Yes, I have been taught how to remove arrows. I have done so before. Just keep her still and calm.”

“What about me?” moaned Princess Meira who now had Princess Gwendolyn by her side.

“Gwendolyn, keep her still, and I will check on her ankle in a moment,” said Brennan.

Maddoc looked down at Anwen as she blinked at him. “What is it, Anwen? Are you well?”

“I think so,” she said with effort. “I just hit my head a little.” She cried out as Brennan did something.

“Not much more, Anwen,” said Brennan.

Anwen gripped Maddoc’s hand and looked over. “Is Princess Meira well?”

“She will be,” said Maddoc. “She says her ankle hurts, but I believe that is it.”

Anwen cried out again as Maddoc heard more horses approach. He looked up to see a group of riders along with Lachlan and Prince Rillian.

“What happened?” asked Lachlan as he jumped off his horse.

“I believe someone didn’t look before they shot their arrow,” said Brennan. “Princess Meira was almost hit, but Anwen saved her. Unfortunately, the arrow caught Anwen in her leg.”

“Let me see,” said Lachlan.

“No, I’ve got it, brother. Go check on Princess Meira. She says she hurt her ankle.”

Prince Rillian knelt down on Anwen’s other side and looked at her. He turned her head slowly and looked up at Maddoc. “I think she banged her head pretty good. There is some blood.”

“It is not bad,” said Anwen. “I shall have a cut and lump, but that is all. I’m more concerned with Brennan finishing.”

“One more good twist, Anwen,” said Brennan as Prince Rillian pulled a handkerchief out of his cloak.

He placed it on the back of Anwen’s head and smiled at her. “This will make another amusing story for you to tell, princess.”

She grinned a little. “I would rather not have this one if you please, your highness.” She cried out again, gripping Maddoc’s hand tight.

“There,” said Brennan. “It’s not so bad, Anwen. I am sure it hurts, but it will heal quickly I think.” He tore a section off of her skirt and wrapped it around her wound. “It is too bad you can’t heal yourself.”

Maddoc and Prince Rillian helped her to slowly sit up. The prince took his handkerchief off of her head, and Maddoc could see the blood on it. “I don’t believe your head is bleeding too badly, princess. A healer should look at it though,” said Prince Rillian.

“We need to get you back to the palace, now,” said Maddoc.

“What about the stag?” asked Anwen.

Maddoc shook his head but saw that she was serious. He looked at the group in front of him, spotting Elias who had ridden up hearing the commotion. Elias jumped off his horse and hurried over. “Good gods, what in the kingdom happened?”

“I will tell you later, but first I need you to see that this stag gets back to the palace,” said Maddoc. “We need to get the princess back to see a healer.”

Elias nodded. “Of course, your majesty.”

“Do you think you can stand, Anwen?” asked Brennan.

“Yes, with some help,” replied Anwen.

Princess Rillian and Maddoc helped her to stand. She held on to both their hands as she carefully put her injured leg on the ground. She grimaced a little but nodded her head. “What of Princess Meria?” she asked.

“I think her ankle is broken,” replied Lachlan. He had the princess boot off and was looking over her foot and ankle.

“Let me see,” said Anwen as she hobbled over and slowly sunk down on the ground.

“No, Anwen, you are too weak,” said Brennan.

Anwen ignored him. She placed her hands around the hurt ankle and closed her eyes.

“What are you doing?” asked Princess Meira fearfully.

Anwen kept her eyes closed and took deep breaths. Princess Meira made a hissing noise but then lay back with a sigh of relief. Anwen took her hands off the princess’s ankle and started to fall back towards the ground. Prince Rillian, Brennan, and Maddoc all reached for her, but it was Lachlan who caught her.

Without another word, he picked her up as he rose from the ground. He walked over to his horse and placed her on it before mounting behind her. He said nothing to anyone as he put one arm around Anwen and picked up his reins with the other. He rode off quickly as Princess Gwendolyn stood and looked after him.

“Will someone help me?” asked Princess Meira. “I am very ready to go back to the palace and rest.”

Brennan checked over her ankle. “Your ankle is fine. Unless you are hurt somewhere else, you should be good to ride back.”

“My back aches terribly, and I am sure I will be bruised where she pushed me,” whined Princess Meira.

“She saved your life,” said Brennan angrily. “That arrow was coming right for you.”

“King Maddoc, will you help me up?” asked Princess Meira ignoring Brennan.

Maddoc wanted nothing more than to get back to the palace to check on Anwen. He looked at Brennan. “We will get you up, your highness.”

He took one of her hands and Brennan the other. They both pulled to help her on her feet. She swayed and fell into Maddoc. “I am not sure I can ride alone in my condition.”

The last thing Maddoc wanted to do was share a horse with the woman, but he wanted no more delays. “You can ride with me.” He looked at Brennan. “Can you get some help and see that the princesses’ horses are brought back to the stables.”

“Yes, your majesty,” said Brennan.

Maddoc walked with Princess Meira to his horse. He picked her up and put her in the saddle perhaps a little too roughly. He pulled himself up behind her, putting his arms on either side of her and picking up his reins. He saw Princess Gwendolyn get on her own horse silently.

“If you see her, tell Anwen, I will check on her as soon as I am back in the palace,” said Brennan. “I will make sure her horse is taken care of. I know she will worry about her.”

“Thank you,” said Maddoc. He snapped his reins, and his horse took off at a gallop through the forest, weaving between trees.

As he rode, he ignored the moans of the princess in front of him and thought of Anwen. He wondered who had fired the arrow that had hit her. It was probably just some stupid young lord trying to hit a deer without checking his line of sight, but Maddoc would still like to know who it was. He would like to give the young lord a piece of his mind.

He hoped Anwen was alright. He did not like how pale she looked when she passed out after healing Princess Meira. The thought that Lachlan had her in his arms made Maddoc give out a small angry growl. He knew it shouldn’t matter who got her to a place she could get help, but Maddoc did not like the idea of Lachlan’s hands on her.

The ride back to the palace seemed to take forever. He rode up to the front door and was met by several servants. It was probably rude, but after dismounting and helping the princess, he left her in the hands of the servants. All he wanted was to see Anwen. As he walked through the door, he was met by his mother.

“Maddoc, are you well?” asked his mother. “I heard there was an accident.”

“I am fine, mother. I am only worried about Anwen. I must see her.”

“She is in her room with her mother, her aunt, and that man that brought her here. I have already called for the healer.”

Maddoc nodded and started walking up the stairs.

“You cannot go in her room, Maddoc,” called his mother.

“I can, and I will. Do not try to stop me. It will do no good,” said Maddoc as he continued up the stairs.

He got to Anwen’s door and knocked softly before opening it. He walked through the sitting room to the bedroom to find Anwen in the bed with her mother sitting beside her holding her hand. Princess Roslyn was in a nearby chair speaking with Lachlan who was pacing the room.

“You should go see if Gwendolyn is back, Lachlan,” Princess Roslyn said. “I am sure she is shaken up seeing her friend and cousin hurt.”

“She is back as is Princess Meira,” said Maddoc quietly as he walked further into the room.

“Your majesty,” said Princess Roslyn standing. “There is no need for you to be in here. You should go check on Princess Meira.”

“He will stay here,” said Queen Eira. “Sister, you should go check on your daughter with Lachlan. Make sure the healer comes to see Anwen as soon as he arrives.”

“Eira,” started Roslyn, but the Queen cut her off.

“Go now, Roslyn. My daughter needs quiet, and she will not get it with your chatter.”

Princess Roslyn looked at her sister for a moment before turning to Lachlan. “Come along, Lachlan, you should see to Gwendolyn. She will need you.”

Lachlan stopped pacing and looked down at Anwen. “I will come back later to check on her.”

“I will send someone to let you know how she is doing. There will be no need to disturb her,” said the queen. “Now go, now.”

Roslyn walked out with Lachlan following her. They both looked at Maddoc as they left, but his gaze would not leave the bed. As soon as they were gone, he walked closer. He looked down to see Anwen slowly opening her eyes.

“Are they truly gone,” she asked quietly.

The queen smiled a little. “Yes, my dear. Hopefully, they will not come back. At least for a while.”

“Did I hear Maddoc has come?” Anwen opened her eyes fully and looked at her mother.

“I am here, Anwen,” said Maddoc moving very close to the bed. “I am sorry I was not here earlier.”

“I am sure there was much to do. My horse is alright, isn’t she?”

“Brennan is seeing to your horse, and Elias is making sure your stag makes it back,” said Maddoc.

“Our stag, your majesty.” She gave him a slight grin.

“You should rest, dear,” said Queen Eira. “The healer will be here soon to see to your leg and check on your head.”

“I really am alright, mother. I just have a slight headache, and my leg hurts of course. I shall mend.”

“I will feel better when the healer looks over your wound. I would not like a repeat of last time,” said Maddoc.

Queen Eira patted her daughter’s hand before standing up. She stretched her back and groaned.

“Are you alright, mother?”

Queen Eira stretched again and nodded. “I have just been sitting too long, and the shock of seeing you in such a state got to me. You were so pale when Lachlan brought you in. I thought you might be dead.”

“I was just worn out from the incident and healing Princess Meira,” said Anwen as Maddoc sat down next to her. “She is alright, isn’t she?”

Maddoc nodded. “She is still complaining about her injuries, but as far as I can tell she is fine. You saved her life. I don’t know if she will show her appreciation, though.”

“I did not do it for her appreciation. I didn’t have time to think of it at all. I do not wish her ill, even if I rather she were somewhere else. She is much too pretty for my taste, especially since she wants you.”

Her mother laughed a little as Maddoc smiled. “It doesn’t matter how pretty she is. She is not you, and that is all that matters.”

“Should you be in here, my king? I am sure it will cause talk,” said Anwen.

“What have I told you about people noticing my feelings for you? It does not bother me, and soon it will not matter,” said Maddoc.

The healer came in eventually with Mrs. Owens who brought some food and wine for Anwen. The healer cleaned and wrapped her leg. He checked her head and declared it was not serious. He had her eat and drink a little before giving her medicine to help with her pain.

He left to go check on Princess Meira as Mrs. Owens picked up the tray and set it to the side. “I will need to get the princess cleaned up and dressed more comfortably. That medicine will make her tired. There are many people downstairs who would like to know how she is. Perhaps you should go tell them, King Maddoc.”

He nodded as Queen Eira walked forward. “I will go with you, your majesty. I should check on my niece as well. Anwen, I will come in before bed and see how you are doing.”

“I am sure I will just be sleeping, mother, so there is no need,” said Anwen as she sat up.

“There is a need because I am your mother, and I will not rest until I see you are doing well. Now, try to go to sleep as soon as you can. I am sure you will feel better in the morning.” Her mother bent down and kissed her cheek before walking into the sitting room.

“I shall talk to Mrs. Owens later and see how you are, Anwen,” said Maddoc as he took her hand. He bent down to kiss it and softly said, “I will be here later, my love. I will try not to wake you.”

“If you do, I will not mind,” she said as she leaned up and kissed his cheek. “Even if do not awake when you come, if later I awoke in your bed, I would prefer it.”

He squeezed her hand before letting it go. He watched her for a moment before leaving the room with Queen Eira.

“My poor Anwen is always getting into scrapes. Her whole life, trouble just seems to find her,” said the queen as they walked towards the stairs.

“I think it is probably because she is always trying to help others. I really do think she saved Princess Meira today. I have no doubt that arrow would have hit her.”

“Yes, she is always trying to help someone or something. When she was eight, she fell out of a tree trying to return a bird’s nest that had fallen. She dislocated her shoulder, but she could have broken her neck. I can tell you of countless other times she came home with scraped knees, torn dresses, and bumps on her head. Always in the pursuit of some adventure or helping some unfortunate soul.”

Maddoc grinned and shook his head. “I guess she was a handful.”

“Yes, and no,” said the queen. “She has always been very good, and she has brought me more joy than anything else over the years. There are those on my court and in my family who would call her troublesome.”

“I think she is exceptional in every way,” replied Maddoc. “I do wish she would not put herself in harm's way so much, but I have never met a braver or kinder soul.”

The queen took Maddoc’s arm. “You see her better than most, I think. I am still worried about how your future with her will work, but I do believe you are a good fit for her.”

“I am not worthy of her goodness, but I could not think of loving another now.”

“It is hard for me to believe anyone deserves my daughter, but I could see you coming close, your majesty.” She sighed a little as they came to the stairs. “I shall have to speak with Lachlan or maybe I can have Lord Aidan do it. He cannot keep up this fascination or whatever it is for Anwen. He had his chance with her. He gave her up and chose differently. He will have to live with that choice.”

“Would you let me speak with him, Queen Eira?” asked Maddoc. “There is something I wish to know about what happened out in the woods, and I believe I will be the one seeing to Anwen’s protection in the near future.”

As they exited the stairs the queen looked at Maddoc. “I am not sure how wise it is, but I have a feeling you will be speaking to the man no matter what. Please do remember that Anwen is very close to his family. His brother is her oldest and dearest friend. His grandfather is like a father to her. He can never be completely out of her life.”

“Maybe not, but he needs to know his place in it. I am very ready to let him know how things are. I don’t care who he may speak of it with. Seeing her hurt and vulnerable makes me want to announce our betrothal this second. I want everyone to know she is under my protection.”

“You still have some work to do in your kingdom, don’t you? I understand your impatience, but I think if you can work just a bit longer getting things under control, you will be better off in the long run. You might start talking with the Parvillian king. He does not seem unreasonable to me.” The queen gave him a small smile. “In fact, if you need some help in getting him to see a future in which his daughter is not your queen, I might be able to help.”

Maddoc gave her a curious look. “You could?”

“Anwen has told you of my gift, hasn’t she?” Maddoc nodded. “Then you should know if I wished you to stay away from my daughter, I could have already persuaded you to do it. I would never interfere in such a way unless I thought it was absolutely necessary, of course. I will not go too far in securing King Brone’s favor for you, but I could smooth the way a bit.”

“I would appreciate your help if it is needed. Maybe at supper tomorrow, we could all sit together.”

The queen nodded. “Now, I see some have spotted us, and I am sure they will want an update on our princess.”

The queen let all those that gathered know that Anwen would be well. She would just need to rest for a day or so.

“I expect she will even be well for her birthday in four days,” said the queen happily.

“We shall have to do something special to celebrate,” said Elias as Lady Alys nodded by his side. “I am sure our king can think of something.”

Maddoc had been thinking about what to do for Anwen’s birthday since Brennan had let him know it was coming up. What he really wanted was to find a way to spend time with her alone. He wished he could take her for a ride through the woods and have an intimate supper in his room, but he knew others would want to celebrate as well.

“I do have some things in mind. I had hoped to have some dancing at the end of the night, but we will have to see how the princess’s leg feels. Now, I believe everyone should get cleaned up and rest. I think an early supper is in order after today.”

As everyone dispersed, Maddoc’s mother and uncle came up to him.

“I hope Princess Anwen is truly well,” said his uncle. “I wish I had known earlier she was injured. Do you know who fired the arrow?”

“I have a guess, but I am not sure. I do not believe it was done in malice. I think it was just someone being very stupid,” said Maddoc.

“I should go see how she is doing in a bit,” said his uncle. “I told the healer to stay here until we are sure she is well.”

“She is probably sleeping at the moment and will be for some time. Whatever the healer gave her for pain has left her tired,” said Maddoc.

“And how is Princess Meira, Maddoc?” asked his mother.

“I am sure she is fine. Anwen healed her ankle out in the forest, and that was all that was wrong with her. What did the healer say?”

“He said he could find no injuries on her, though she was complaining of being sore. He gave her some medicine and encouraged her to rest,” said his uncle. “You should go check on her, Maddoc. It would be the right thing to do.”

“I will in a moment. There is something else I need to see to,” said Maddoc seeing that Lachlan had come downstairs with Princess Gwendolyn.

His uncle grabbed his arm. “Do not think you can dismiss Princess Meira easily. She and her father have expectations.”

“None that were raised by me,” said Maddoc.

“You visited her in Parvilia for over a month,” pointed out Prince Korben.

“And I showed her no particular attention. I have never had any real affection for her. I am going to let King Brone know where things stand very soon, uncle.”

“The consequences of this will be felt not just by you, but by the kingdom, Maddoc. Think about what will happen if Parvilia decides to not be our friend anymore. They are important to our trade ventures and the prosperity of our people. If you choose not to marry the Parvilian princess, others may suffer.”

Maddoc stared at his uncle before he closed his eyes. “I will find a way to move forward. We are important to the prosperity of Parvilia too. I believe I can make this work.”

Prince Korben shook his head. “You will find out how wrong you are. I pity the heartache you might feel, but I did warn you.”

His uncle walked away as his mother came closer to him. “He is not wrong, Maddoc.”

“He is not unbiased in his opinion, mother. You must know he wants Anwen for himself.”

“I do believe he wants a connection with Lucidala, and the princess with her Gift is an alluring match for him.” She sighed and looked at Maddoc. “I do not approve of it. It would be cruel for him to marry her and have her under your nose as his wife. I know you have strong feelings for Princess Anwen.”

“I love her, mother. Can you not see that by now?”

“I do, and I wish it could work out. I know what it is like to lose someone you love, but Maddoc there could be a way forward without her. It would not be easy, but for the love of your kingdom and your people, you could do it. She could do it for her own kingdom.”

Maddoc shook his head. “I do not know your story of lost love, but I am telling you I cannot go on without Anwen. I certainly could not stand to see her married to my uncle. I don’t see how I could manage it. Her mother will not make her no matter how good the connection.” He smiled a little. “I think she is actually starting seeing me as an option for her daughter.”

His mother put her hand on his arm. “Please think about what you are doing. I would not wish to lose you. Things seem stable in Calumbria now, but one wrong step can lead to everything crashing down. I only wish to help you be a good king.”

“Then you will support me when I know that I am right. I know picking Anwen will make some things more difficult, but it will be impossible for me to rule without her. Now, I must go. I wish to speak with someone, and then I will check on Princess Meira. Have faith in me, mother. I believe I can do this.”

“I wish I could believe you.” She squeezed his arm and turned to walk up the stairs.

Maddoc walked over to where Princess Gwendolyn and Lachlan stood to the side. They were whispering to one another, and it did not sound like a friendly conversation.

“What did you expect me to do, Gwendolyn? Let her fall and leave her there?”

“There were several men who could have seen her safely back to the palace. Prince Rillian would have been very willing, or your brother. You could have let the king do it. The gods know he likes to put his hands on her when he can for some reason. I am sure she has given him favors in the past.”

“Do not speak of her like that. I will not hear it.”

“It is the truth, and you will hear whatever I say,” hissed Gwendolyn. “If you do not wish all to know what you have done including your grandfather you better become more attentive to me, the woman you will marry.”

Lachlan groaned and looked away, causing him to see Maddoc. “Your majesty, is there something you need?”

“I wish to speak with you. I was hoping you would come to my study.”

“Yes, go with him, Lachlan. After you are done, it would do best to disappear from my sight for a bit before you attend to mother and me at supper. There will be no repeats of what happened today,” said Gwendolyn. She curtsied to the king and hurried toward the stairs.

“Come with me, Lachlan,” said Maddoc as he turned to walk to his study.

Maddoc entered the room and held the door for Lachlan. He closed it behind the man and moved to the fireplace, sitting down in one of the large chairs.

“Have a seat, Lachlan. If you would like a drink, help yourself.” Maddoc pointed to the pitcher on the table in front of them.

Lachlan sat down but did not pour a drink. He stared at Maddoc as Maddoc studied him. He was a fine-looking man with his shoulder-length light brown hair and strong jaw. His lips were full and turned down as he looked at Maddoc. Lachlan’s eyes were a deep brown, and perhaps it was just Maddoc’s predetermined notion to dislike the man, but they seemed a little sinister to him.

“I am guessing you know why I asked you in here,” said Maddoc. “You must know of my interest in Anwen.”

“I have seen the attention you have paid her, even when you have tried to hide it. I cannot imagine what you hope to gain from her except to use her for your temporary pleasure.”

Maddoc closed his eyes for a moment to settle himself. Showing too much anger too early would not serve his purpose. “What I hope to gain from Anwen is her hand in marriage. I want to spend my life with her. I have her promise to marry me, and when the time is right, I shall announce it to all. I hope to marry her before spring is over.”

“How can you marry, Anwen when it is talked about widely that you will marry Princess Meira? The princess herself speaks of your upcoming wedding as if it is already planned. You are as good as promised to her.”

“I am not,” said Maddoc adamantly. “I have told Princess Meira to cease talking of a supposed betrothal between us. If she continues to do so, she will only look like a fool when I announce who my queen shall be.”

Lachlan shook his head. “I am sorry, your majesty, but I don’t think it will be as easy as you imagine to marry Anwen. I doubt your mother and uncle will allow it.”

“I am the king and an adult. They can suggest who I marry, but they cannot tell me who to marry. I will follow my own will and heart. Anwen already owns my heart, and for some reason, I believe I have won hers.”

“What of the lords of your kingdom? Do you think they will be happy with you marrying a princess of Lucidala? Especially when you throw over the princess of such an important kingdom to your own?”

“Anwen already has the support of the highest lord in my land. I think she can win the others over very quickly with her goodness and intelligence. It will not be easy, but nothing worthwhile is.”

“Anwen and I were easy,” said Lachlan quickly. “We fit together so well, that falling in love with her felt like breathing to me. We make perfect sense together. Our families are already connected, and we both have the best interest of Lucidala in our minds. No one goes better together with Anwen than me.”

“You have chosen another. You had Anwen’s love, and you could have had her hand if you would have asked for it. Yet, you threw away all you had with her. I don’t want to know why, because no matter what you have to say, I will not understand it. All I can do is be grateful you were such a fool. I know what it is to have earned her love, and I will not waste it as you have.”

“Do you think she has no feelings for me? You don’t know how deep our love was and is. I still love her, and I know she loves me.”

Maddoc laughed a little. “She has spoken to me in depth of what you mean to her at this point. It would be cruel to tell you all she has said to me but know this, she has no feelings for you other than pity at this point. All her affections have transferred fully to me. She has told me herself that she has loved no one as she loves me. She wishes she never had to see you again but knows with your intertwined connections, it is impossible.

“She loves your brother and your grandfather. I believe she is fond of your parents. She understands the importance of family, and you will marry her cousin. If I could, I would make sure she never had to see you again, but it cannot be so. You do stay in this palace under my rule. If you continue to pressure the princess with your presence and words, I will have you thrown out.”

Lachlan shook his head. “There are things I need to say to her. She may not realize it, but she will want to hear them. She needs to hear them. I trust when she knows the whole truth, she will choose me over you with no regrets. You say you have her promise, but you have done nothing to really secure her future. Until it is announced she is betrothed to you, I will try to get her to listen to me. I might even do it until you marry her, not that I believe you ever will.”

“I already consider her under my protection. She will not leave this palace until I know she will return as my wife. I may even go with her back to Lucidala for a time.”

“So, you will forbid her to speak with me?” asked Lachlan.

“No, I would never forbid her anything, but I know she has no wish to hear anything from you. I also think she has told you as much.” Maddoc stood up and walked to the fireplace. He looked at the fire. “I don’t know what you think you have to say to Anwen, and I don’t care. If she wants to hear you out, then I will let her tell you herself. Until then I will see that she does not have to endure your presence when it is not necessary.”

Maddoc turned to look at Lachlan. “You had no right to ride off with her today, and I know if she had been conscious, she would not wish it. I do not trust you alone with her at all.”

“Are you afraid she will choose me if she knows the truth?”

“No, I am afraid you will do something foolish and hurt her in some way. I think it might have been you who fired that arrow out of some attempt to impress her with a kill. I can’t prove it, and it will do no good to try to get you to admit it. It does show me just how impulsive you are. I had a feeling you were an impulsive man. If I find out that you do anything to make her feel uncomfortable or cause her any pain, I will see you thrown out of this palace and maybe more.”

Maddoc nodded towards the door. “I have no more to say to you, and I do not wish to hear anything else from you. Go now, and it would be best if you avoided being in my sight for your stay here. Just know if I hear one word of you doing anything unacceptable to Anwen, it will not end well for you.”

Lachlan got up from his chair and walked to the door. Before he left, he looked at Maddoc. “You are the fool if you think you will end up married to Anwen. You are beholden to your kingdom as is she to Lucidala. She will see it in the end, and she will pick me. We will rule Lucidala together as it is our home. We are practically made for each other. I may have made a mess of it, but nothing could ruin what we are to each other. You need to be prepared.”

“Go, now,” growled Maddoc.

Lachlan left the room, and Maddoc reached down to pour a glass of wine. He drank it quickly and poured another. As he drank his second glass slowly, he thought about Anwen. He had no doubts about his love for her, of hers for him. Whatever Lachlan thought he knew, did not matter to Maddoc. He had Anwen’s promise, and even Queen Eira had started to say she would help him. There were a few more things he needed to do including keeping good relations with the Parvilians. Maddoc finished his wine and knew he had to check on Princess Meira.

He walked up to the fourth floor and found her room. He knocked, and the door was answered by a familiar servant to the princess. She had dark hair and eyes. When she came face to face with Maddoc she gave him a seductive smile.

“It is good to see you, your majesty. I haven’t been able to since we arrived.”

Maddoc couldn’t even remember her name. He barely remembered the few nights they shared together when he visited Parvillia early in the fall.

“I have come to check on Princess Meira. I hope she is doing well.”

“Is that the king?” asked Princess Meira from in the room. “Please have him come in.”

The dark-haired servant moved out of the way, and Maddoc entered the room. He was greeted by King Brone who was visiting his daughter.

“King Maddoc, I am so grateful to you for looking out for my daughter,” said King Brone as Maddoc walked up to him.

“You should be thanking Princess Anwen. I believe she saved your daughter’s life, and she healed Princess Meira’s ankle. She is currently suffering from injuries and exhaustion sustained in the effort.”

The king nodded. “I have been told of Princess Anwen’s kindness towards my daughter. As soon as she is well enough for visitors, I will thank her myself and so will Meira.” He spoke lower. “I am sure once Meira is feeling better she will better understand what the princess did for her.”

“I hope you are right,” said Maddoc.

“Is Queen Eira coming to supper?” asked King Brone. “I understand she may wish to sit with her daughter, but if she is going downstairs, I should like to give my thanks and well wishes for her daughter as soon as possible.”

Maddoc tried to keep from smiling. It seemed the king was already at least a little smitten with Queen Eira. She might not even have to use her Gift to calm him as Maddoc had a conversation with him. “I am not sure of the queen’s plans. I believe Princess Anwen will be resting for some time, so the queen should be downstairs soon to eat.”

“I will go see myself and let you have some time with my daughter. There are several servants about, so I do not worry about anything improper,” said the king with a small laugh.

“I will not be long in your daughter’s rooms,” said Maddoc.

The king nodded, and he walked from the room as Maddoc moved towards the bed Princess Meira was sitting up in.

“I trust you are well and recovering from the day?” asked Maddoc.

“I am still very sore, and quite worn out,” said Princess Meira. “The healer says I should rest for some time, though I hope to be downstairs by tomorrow.”

“I’m glad to hear it,” said Maddoc. “If there is anything you need, please let a palace servant know. I will let you rest now.”

“Wait, my king,” said Princess Meira as her cheeks turned pink. She looked at her servant who was in her room, and the dark-haired woman walked to the front, away from them. “I wish you to know how thankful I am of you seeing me to the palace. The day was quite awful but being in your arms almost made it worth it.”

Maddoc huffed a little and took a step back from her. “I am very glad you were not injured seriously, but I am not sure I would talk about anything in the day being worth me almost unwillingly riding with you on my horse. Princess Anwen was hit with an arrow in her effort to save you. She has a bad bump on her head as well. Perhaps you should rethink your phrasing.”

The princess sat up a little further and adjusted her robe. “I am not happy Princess Anwen was hurt. I was only commenting on your service to me, and how much I enjoy your company. I thought you would be pleased to know your future wife is looking forward to more intimate dealings with you.”

“Are you talking of yourself as my future wife?” asked Maddoc. “If I were you, I would cease all talk of a union between us. I have given you no promises, and I never shall. I have no ill feelings toward you, Princess Meira, not really, but I do not wish you to be my queen. I hope you will eventually find someone who will value you and want to marry you, but it shall not be me.”

“But your uncle has already made assurances to my father. Your mother has talked to me of the responsibilities of being your queen,” said Princess Meira.

“My uncle and mother may have had certain expectations about us, but they will be disappointed. I do not wish to lead you on or make you look like a fool. Please desist from talking about this with anyone. I would not like your reputation to be hurt.” Maddoc turned to walk away.

“Is it because of Princess Anwen? Has she given you enough of her favors to entrap you somehow? Do not let simple pleasure with a tolerably well-looking woman blind you from the best path for your future, my king.”

“Do not speak so of her,” said Maddoc furiously as he turned around. “She is everything good and proper, and she has done nothing to entrap me.”

“Men are always such fools,” said Princess Meira dismissively. “If you let me have some time with you, I can show you how absolutely taken in by that woman you have been.”

Maddoc looked down at Princess Meira with a frown and shook his head. She sat up further and reached for his hand, grabbing it.

“I am not unpracticed or unskilled, my king. I have been told I am more than proficient in pleasing a man. Perhaps if you let me come to you, I can show you how easily you could forget all about Princess Anwen.”

Maddoc yanked his hand away, feeling disgusted by her insinuations. “I have no wish for you to show me anything. I have tried to remain friendly with you, but I am quickly seeing it cannot be. From this moment forward, I shall try to avoid your presence as much as possible.”

“You will not be able to avoid me. You will not be able to resist me in the end. You should not think that your little princess is only showing you favor. My poor friend Gwendolyn is overcome with her cousin’s efforts to take away her intended. You must know of Princess Anwen’s and Lachlan’s past. I am sure there is still something there. I wouldn’t be surprised if she is visiting him at night and other times.”

“Stop, now,” said Maddoc angrily. “You know nothing of Anwen’s activities or her feelings. I will not stand here and listen to you maligning her. If I find that you are speaking so of her in public, I will have you thrown from the palace in a second. I wish to remain on good terms with your kingdom, but not to the detriment of the woman I love.”

Maddoc walked from the room as Princess Meira said, “I still trust it will all work out in the end. I will even forgive you for this little conversation.”

Maddoc spent the rest of the late afternoon in his room. He knew he had to go downstairs for supper. He sat by Elias and Lady Alys as he watched Queen Eira charming King Brone. He was in no mood for conversation and thankfully Elias seemed to mostly be focused on the woman next to him. A few tried to come up and speak with Maddoc, but after his short answers and sometimes rude responses, many left him alone. He excused himself early, avoiding his uncle who was eating with Princess Roslyn.

As he walked to his room, he came across Mrs. Owens in the hallway speaking with Queen Eira.

“How is the princess?” asked Maddoc.

“She is resting now,” said Queen Eira. “She ate a little and seemed in good spirits according to Mrs. Owens. I was just telling this fine lady how much I appreciate her efforts in taking care of my daughter.”

“I have not met a kinder woman, your majesty. I enjoy every moment with the princess,” said Mrs. Owens. “I have some work to do below stairs, but if she needs anything, I will see to her.”

“I am sure she will rest well tonight,” said the queen. “She seemed quite tired when I just checked on her.”

“I hope she will feel better tomorrow,” said Maddoc. “I hope you sleep well, Queen Eira.”

“Thank you, your majesty. I am very worn out from the day. Tomorrow night, we shall eat supper together with King Brone. I have hope for a good outcome there.”

Maddoc smiled and bowed before she turned and walked away with Mrs. Owens. He hurried to his room, and after speaking with Evan and changing into some comfortable clothes, he dismissed his servant for the night. Picking up a lit candle, Maddoc pushed open the wall and walked quickly through the passageway, desperate to see Anwen. After all he had experienced that day with his conversations, only seeing and touching her would bring him comfort.

He opened the wall to her room and walked out slowly, leaving it open. He could see her lying in the bed, her head turned away from him. He put his candle down, moved over to the bed, and carefully picked her up. Perhaps, it would have been better to leave her where she was, but she had mentioned she would prefer his bed, and he was desperate to hold her.

As he pulled her close to him, she turned her head and blinked her eyes, looking up at him. She gave him a small smile, before leaning against his chest. He picked up his candle carefully with Anwen in his arms and walked through the open wall, managing to clumsily close it behind him. He walked to his room and put down his candle before carefully laying Anwen on his bed. He closed his wall before hurrying over to the bed. He lay down and immediately took her into his arms, kissing the top of her head as he closed his eyes.

“I’m glad you came and got me,” she said softly.

“I should have let you rest, but I could not do without you tonight. I am not hurting you, am I?” He moved the covers under them carefully, making sure her injured leg was positioned well before covering them both up.

“No, I am very comfortable, my king,” she sighed as she burrowed into his embrace.

“I love you, Anwen. I hope you know it.”

“I do, and I love you as well,” she said with a small yawn as he held her tighter. “Are you alright, Maddoc?”

“I am now.” She looked up at him with concern, and he kissed her forehead. “Go to sleep, my love. I will tell you more later, but all that matters is that we will be together like this forever.”

“I know, Maddoc. I never doubt you.”

He smiled a little as she closed her eyes. He had many doubts about himself in his life, but his love for her was not one of them.