23. A Change of Plans.

23. A Change of Plans.
Caspian

I have been pacing in my chambers all morning. My father's punishment has been too severe, and it is something I shall never forgive him for. Even Mira, the child who still as an adult idolised her father to the strongest degree, is appalled by what he has done. How he has attempted to humiliate me, and keep me from my Catherine.

He has had me chained up for two months. Hobbled my beast's legs in the bowels of our palace, with only my mother and sister as visitors. Testing my restraint, as we both know I am stronger than he is. That I could break free with ease from the darkness he has forced me to endure. But, if I did then there would be no palace left. Our people would have suffered, many would have died had I pressed for freedom. So instead I was left to endure this torture, my longing for Catherine burning deep within me as I waited him out.

It was his own sadistic way to harm me further. Knowing I can leave, but doing so would kill and maim hundreds and in turn our people would never be the same again. Thus keeping me in check with my own need to keep the Kelpie race safe.

However, if he thinks that this would make me regret my actions towards those humans, then he will be sorely disappointed. All it has done has reassured me that once I bring Catherine home, I will never again have anything to do with him.

My chains were finally removed this morning, and Mira escorted me to my quarters where I have managed to freshen myself up, before I am presented once again to my father. Now, I must once again await his summons, while containing my urge to break free and never again return. I ponder about taking Catherine away to a tropical island somewhere; where we could live out our lives in the peace, companionship and solitude we have so far been denied. I remember she fishes, it's how I found her again. We could survive on fish, and the tropical fruits. I can build us a home and we can raise our family in the warmth and safety it would provide; never to be separated again.

My brooding is disturbed by a gentle knock on my chamber door.

At Last! I can move forward from this awful stalemate.

I am swinging the door open before I even realise I have crossed the room. But it is not a guard as expected; it is both my mother and father, looking rather uncomfortable as they stand in the hallway before me.

I'm instantly wary, this is not what I expected at all.

"Son," my father exclaims, with what I am sure is a false relief and affection colouring his words.

I only nod, not trusting my words and showing quite obviously that I will not lower my guard.

"Caspian," my mother speaks sweetly, moving into the room and cupping my face with her hands.

My father follows, closing the door behind himself as he exhaled a sigh of relief.

"What is going on? I was awaiting my summons." I ask plainly, not having any time to waste on false pleasantries with this man.

"Yes," my father responds with a sigh. "As was your Uncle Robert, I believe."

"What?" I ask perplexed by my father's attitude.

He seems defeated somehow.

My mother sighs loudly, looking at him impatiently.

"Will you just tell him, Kano." My Mother snaps, "Begin by apologising, and then explain."

"Apologising?" I scoff, "That would mean an admission of a wrong doing, and His Majesty cannot be seen to do that."

"Caspian," my mother scolds me, "Let your father speak."

I sigh, holding my hands up in invitation for him to begin.

"Your right, Caspian." My father begins solemnly, astonishing me entirely. "My actions were wrong. My hands were tied and I could not be seen to give you leniency," he stated his voice raising. "Your Uncle Robert was pushing me to pull you in line, and he had the entire court's eyes and ears all watching for my actions."

I stand frowning. Trying desperately to understand my father's words.

"I will not allow him to try and humiliate you further, by making an exhibition of you upon your release." My father finishes, finally explaining my missing summons.

"So what now then?" I ask him waiting.

"Now," my mother answers with a wry smile, "You go get your mate, and bring our next queen home."

"Yes." My father states assertively. "She is needed here now for more reasons than your tethering."

I look at him expectantly, but typically he does not elaborate, and instead keeps talking as if he has been on my side all along.

"I have done some research into what you discussed at your trial, Caspian. The family that own the fortress or castle that you described are not known for their chivalrous behaviours. However, I placed spies in the local town and they described the young lord who is staying there at the moment. He visits the brothels and gambling houses nightly, so, I believe there is hope your mate hasn't been harmed. I also think that is your way inside is not with the young master, but in fact with his father. So, I made contact on your behalf. As far as they are concerned, you are a wealthy wine merchant who is venturing into converting your ships to sell as naval vessels. You are expected to meet with the Duke and his son in their ancestral home in three days time to discuss this business."

My father's words astound me.

"How?" I utter, both baffled and thoroughly excited.

"Because, you are my son, and I have always been on your side, Caspian Varuna. Even if you think you can take on the world alone; with all your might I do not doubt you would succeed as well. But, sometimes, the best way is with a diplomatic tenacity first, earn some trust before you go renegade. Besides, this is the mother of our future grandchildren. Of course we would help." He responds.

It has been a long time since I have seen my father behave like this. A long time. The demands of his throne have taken a toll on our relationship for many years, but I never expected this level of dedication. Maybe my sister has not been so blinded all these years, maybe it is I who has not seen the bigger picture.

"You have my thanks, father." I utter genuinely, "But where will I find these naval ships?"

My mother openly laughs at me over this.

"Oh my boy, the sea bed is littered with them. Five have already been repaired and floated for you." She smiles warmly. "All that is left is to get you to the tailors, you must be dressed the part after all."