Chapter 16
Anwen woke up in Maddoc’s arms. She made some happy noise between a sigh and a purr as she moved even closer to him. His arms tightened around her.
“Please tell me it is not time for me to leave,” she said quietly.
“You never have to leave if you do not wish it,” he answered before kissing her forehead.
She looked up at him to ask what time he thought it truly was, but she was prevented by him bending down and kissing her. She reached up and rubbed his cheek. “I will have to get up soon. I am sure Evan will be along in a moment.”
Maddoc held her tighter. “What would happen if I just didn’t let you go? I truly do not wish to.”
“You will have to at some point. There are things we both need to take care of.”
“I am scared to let you go. You might let your doubts win and leave me. I would not blame you after all you have been through, but I’m not sure I could bear it.”
She leaned up and kissed him. “I know I have my doubts, but I will not leave you. It is still hard to see how this will work, but the thought of being without you physically hurts me.”
“Then we need to start working on a way forward starting today.” He loosened his grip on her. “I can let you know the lords who will cause the most troubles and the ones who you can easily sway on our side.”
“What about those who are frightened and skeptical of my Gift?”
“You spent most of the day yesterday healing those who were ill. That should help some. Perhaps you could be more open about your Gift? I know you do not wish to put on a show or waste it, but a small demonstration or two could help others see what you are capable of. They could start to understand it is nothing to be afraid of.”
“I can try to think of something, I suppose. What about your mother and uncle?”
“My uncle can go to the dark place and back for all I care. He thinks he can bully me and coerce you into marriage. I will continue to let him know neither is possible. My mother will not actively work against us. She might worry, but once we are married, she will accept you as queen.”
“I will need to go get dressed so I can charm your lords and ease fears of my unnatural ability, my king.” She pushed away from him, stretching in the bed.
He reached out and grabbed her, pulling her close to him. “What if we just left this place for a while. We might be able to make it to the summer palace if the roads haven’t completely frozen over. We could get married and come back, man and wife. No one would be able to do anything about it.”
Anwen laughed a little “It sounds tempting but rather irresponsible. Like it or not, you are a king, and you cannot act so regarding your kingdom and people.”
“I’m tired of sharing you with others. I can’t take another day, having to watch how I talk to you and touch you. Everything in me wants to claim who you truly are to me.”
“I know who I am to you, and you know who you are to me. It will have to be enough for a short while. People can try to keep us apart, but they cannot tell us who we are. They cannot stop me from loving you.”
He cupped her cheek with his hand. “Nothing could stop me from loving you, Anwen. I really would love to run away with you and return with you as my wife, but it would not be fair to you. You deserve to be noticed properly. I am not ashamed of you. I will be proud to have you as my wife and queen. To think I could earn the love of such a wonderful woman is beyond anything I can imagine.”
“Hush,” she said before she kissed him. “I have told you over and over, you are all I want. You have earned my love with your faithfulness and your actions.” She gave him a little smirk as her hands moved down his chest. “I can think of many ways you have done more than enough to win my love.”
He groaned as she kissed his jaw, her hands moving lower. “Do you have any idea of what you do to me?”
She grinned as she rolled him over and climbed on top of him. “I do, my king, and I quite enjoy it.”
Anwen went down to breakfast after dressing. As she entered the room she was met by Elias and Lady Alys.
“Are you feeling well, Lady Alys?” asked Anwen.
“I am perfectly fine, your highness, and I owe you my thanks. I would have had to miss almost all of the rest of the festival in bed if you had not come to cure me.”
“I was glad to do it. I can’t keep Elias out of trouble by myself you know.”
Lady Alys laughed. “He is rather hopeless without someone to lead him around.”
Elias looked at both of them and shook his head. “I was coming over here to help you, princess, but if this how you are going to be, I will leave you on your own.”
“She will not be on her own, even if you leave. I shall help navigate her through the court if you will not.” Lady Alys gave Anwen a wink.
“What do you two plan to help me with?” asked Anwen.
“Our king has asked that I introduce you officially to certain higher lords of the court, especially those who have long been on his council,” replied Elias.
“And I and my mother will see that you are noticed by the lord’s ladies. You have won my mother over with my sudden improvement. I believe she thought if I missed the rest of the festival, I might lose my chance with Lord Elias.” Lady Alys took Elias’s arm. “She also feared you might be a rival for the lord here, but I set her straight on that account. She knows you shall be our queen, and she was relieved as she does not like the Parvilian princess.”
“Do you think it was wise to tell your mother, dear?” asked Elias “My mother does like to gossip as much as the next lady, but she knows when to hold her tongue. The last thing she wants to do is anger the king or you.” Lady Alys looked at Elias before turning back to Anwen. “Now, let’s get started. I am sure Elias can find someone for us to sit by for breakfast.”
It was the beginning of a long morning for Anwen. She sat down at a table with several older men around it. Elias introduced her and began talking about Anwen. He reminded the lords of how she saved their king’s life. He talked about her Gift, and how she had healed Maddoc and all the sick people in the palace. The old lords did not seem very receptive at first, but Anwen tried to be as charming as she could.
Eventually, a couple seemed to warm to her, being more friendly with their chatter. One seemed very interested in if she was single, saying he had a very nice-looking grandson. Elias cut this off very quickly, saying everyone knew the lord’s grandson was an idiot. The lord did not disagree as the others around the table laughed.
After breakfast, Anwen put on her cloak and walked out onto the grounds with Lady Alys and her mother. There were several young couples and some mothers and daughters walking around the pathways that had been cleared of snow. The sun was bright and the day warmer than the two before it.
Lady Aly’s mother stopped several older women to chat while Alys introduced Anwen while holding her arm. It was a mixed reception. Some seemed to be frightened of Anwen, others were intrigued. A few were very snobbish, but Alys assured Anwen they were always like that. When they got to a group of snow-covered rose bushes, Anwen decided it was as good as a time as any to show her Gift.
She let go of Lady Alys’s arm and walked very close to a snow-covered bush. She knocked some snow off the bush with her gloved hand before taking her gloves off. She hovered hands over the bush and closed her eyes. Asking her powers to work through her, Anwen felt her hands warm in the cold air. She concentrated on telling her Gift to do as she wanted. When she opened her eyes and looked down, she found that the rose bush had come alive with dozens of beautifully bloomed roses.
Many people had stopped walking around and stared at the bush. Two younger girls eventually moved closer to the bush, giggling. They each carefully picked a rose and looked up at Anwen. Not knowing what else to do, Anwen gave a small curtsey with a smile. One by one, others came closer to the bush, to see the newly bloomed roses. A few even thanked Anwen as they took a bloom or two, a few young men picking a rose to take to some young woman.
Anwen walked back to take Lady Alys’s arm when she saw her aunt staring at her with Prince Korben by her side. Her aunt looked angry, and Prince Korben looked intrigued. Anwen turned her back on them and continued walking with Lady Alys. By lunch, Anwen was exhausted after speaking with so many people. She healed a small bird with a hurt wing just outside the palace that a couple of young girls were worrying over, and she saw to a cut that was on Lord Maven’s hand.
He looked down at his hand in wonder. “I’ve had that wound almost a year now. It would almost close and then reopen up. None of the healers could help me, but you have fixed it in one second.”
“I am happy to do it, my lord,” replied Anwen.
“If only you could do something about this old scar on my face,” sighed Lord Mavens.
“I would not even if I could. I think it gives you much distinction. It does not mar the handsome features on your face.”
The lord chuckled. “I know you are only trying to flatter me, your highness, but since it has come from such a young, beautiful woman, I will take the compliment.”
“You should, Lord Mavens. I am being very truthful. I know many ladies who would agree, and I am sure your wife is one of them.”
“She has never complained,” said Lord Mavens holding out his arm. “May I escort you into lunch, princess?”
She took his arm. “I would be very honored.”
Even though she was so exhausted, she was satisfied with all she had done. She knew it would take more than one morning of pleasantries to work her way into Calumbria’s court’s good graces, but it was a good start. Her mood continued to improve as her mother walked into the room escorted by King Brone. He brought her over to the table Anwen was sitting with Lord Mavens and his wife.
“Mother, I hope this means you are feeling better,” said Anwen as her mother sat down.
“Oh, yes, I am very recovered, dear. I told you not to worry about me. I only needed rest.”
“It must be nice to know if something was wrong, your daughter could see to healing you,” said Lord Mavens as he looked at Anwen. “I find Princess Anwen quite remarkable.”
Anwen’s mother nodded. “I would agree with you even if she wasn’t my daughter. She is goodness itself, and I believe she will outshine me as queen someday.”
“Hardly, mother. You are so beloved in Lucidala, that I will have much to live up to. I only hope I do not bring shame to our family.”
“You are too modest, I am sure, princess,” said King Brone who sat by Anwen’s mother. “Your mother has told me how wonderful you are, and I believe everything she says, good woman that she is. I also have you to thank for healing my Meira and saving her life.”
“My Gift is meant to be shared, and I could not do anything else, your majesty. I am only glad I saw that arrow in time.” Anwen smiled around the table before eating some of the stew in front of her.
As lunch ended, Anwen walked out of the hall, and Maddoc ended up by her side.
“I hear you have had a productive morning, princess,” he said quietly as they walked slowly to the entrance hall.
“I believe I have. What have you been up to?”
“First, I spoke with my mother at length over breakfast while ignoring Princess Meira. Then I spent some time with Elias talking with King Brone.”
“How did the conversation with the king go?”
Maddoc shrugged. “He still believes an alliance between his daughter and me is possible, but I think it is only because he wishes to appease the highest lord in his kingdom. He wants Princess Meira to marry quickly and have children so there can be an heir to his crown that will appease all his lords.”
“Why does it have to be you? There are several princes and high lord’s sons here who would love to unite with Princess Meira and gain access to the Parvilian throne. Why doesn’t the king focus on them?”
Maddoc sighed. “Because Princess Meira has declared she will only have me. I do not think the king is used to standing up to his daughter. I believe he has spoiled her all her life, and now he does not know how to tell her no.”
“Then we will have to somehow convince Princess Meira you are not an option for her.” Anwen saw that Prince Korben was ahead looking at them both. “Your uncle seems to want to talk to one of us, and I am sorry to say it, but I hope it is you.”
“Go on a different way, and I will deal with him even if you were his original target.”
“If I could kiss you, I would, my king,” said Anwen.
“You should go see the gallery again before you dress for supper tonight, your highness. I believe time there would do you some good,” said King Maddoc.
“Then I will see that I find my way there later this afternoon. Have a pleasant one, your majesty.” Anwen turned and walked down a different hallway that led to the library.
Before she could reach her destination, her aunt stepped out from a doorway.
“Anwen, I wish to speak with you. Would you join me for a few moments in this small parlor?”
Anwen hesitated. “Whatever you wish to say to me, aunt, you can do so here in this hallway.”
“No, it is chilly out here, and there is a nice fire in this parlor. You are so thin, Anwen. I would not wish you to become ill. Are you frightened to join me? Do you think I would hurt my own niece and future queen?”
“Very well, aunt, but just for a bit. I wish to find a new book to read, and then I have somewhere to be later this afternoon.”
Anwen walked into the small room as her aunt closed the door before coming to sit by the fire. She pointed to the chair next to her, and Anwen sat down.
“Now, I would like to know exactly what you were doing with that little display you were putting on this morning?” Her aunt had barely let her sit down before speaking in a brisk tone.
“I am not sure what you mean, aunt. I was only being friendly and entertaining the fellow guests.”
Her aunt leaned forward and seem to try a different route. “Anwen, you and I have never been close, and I regret it. Your mother and I were very good friends growing up, and though we have grown apart, I do still love Eira very much. You are like her in some ways, though you have a lot of your father’s impertinence.”
“I suppose it is not too late, Aunt Roslyn. We could still find a way to get along better.”
“Yes, and I hope we do. I hope you and Gwendolyn find a way to become better friends as well.” Her aunt sat back a little. “In the spirit of wanting what is best for you, I believe you should give up whatever it is you might have with the king. It cannot end well for you and may damage your kingdom.”
“I disagree,” said Anwen not even trying to hide her relationship with Maddoc. “I am very sure in where I stand with King Maddoc and see a future where our two kingdoms are combined in a new way.”
“You could make an alliance with the Calumbria, but it cannot be with the king. If you try, you will anger the king’s closest allies in his own court and the great kingdom of Parvilia. That will not only hurt Calumbria but Lucidala as well since we share a border with both. You should let the king go and focus on a different relationship.” Her aunt gave her a small smile. “Prince Korben thinks very highly of you. He could have married years ago to many eligible women, but he has never had the want until he met you. You must see what a compliment it is.”
“Perhaps it is a compliment, but it is not one I will accept. I see and respect Prince Korben only as the uncle to the king and an important person in Calumbria. I could never see him as a husband.”
“Anwen, do not be stubborn and foolish. While your father could get away with his insolent ways, you cannot. He was a man and had methods to get what he wanted. You are a woman and a princess, and you must do as you are told.”
“And who is telling me I must marry the prince?” asked Anwen.
“I am and soon your mother will as well. I am working to convince her. A marriage between you and the prince is the best way to keep the peace in our land and forward the interest of Lucidala. Think of the power you will have, Anwen. While King Maddoc may be in the king in name, the prince has led this kingdom for longer. When the king is off seeing to his future wife’s kingdom, the prince will be the true ruler of Calumbria, and you will be by his side. What you could do for Lucidala would be immeasurable.”
Anwen shook her head. “Everything in me rebels at the idea of marrying the prince, aunt. It will not be. You cannot force me, and when it comes to it, neither can my mother. I don’t believe she would even try. She wishes me to be happy and knows who my heart desires.”
“Your heart desires it, or is it your wicked tendencies?” Her aunt gave a harsh laugh. “You have always been wild, and it is no surprise you are so loose with your favors. I know Lachlan had his way with you, and I believe you still try to seduce him even now that he is betrothed to my daughter. You have given yourself to the king, but his interest in your will fade in time. You are a pretty little thing who seems to intrigue him, but looks are fleeting. The king will realize this and do what is best for his kingdom in the end.”
Anwen stood. “I will not sit here and listen to this. Gwendolyn is very welcome to Lachlan as I have no interest in him. I hope she is happy with him though I doubt it. You have no idea what I share with Maddoc, and even if I told you, I doubt someone as cold and hollow as you could understand it.” She walked to the door as her aunt stood up.
“Do not follow me, Aunt Roslyn. In fact, do not try to speak to me again. I have nothing to say to you, and I have no interest in hearing any more of your poisonous words.”
Anwen hurried from the room, almost running to the library. When she reached it, she collapsed in the nearest chair, breathing hard.
“Princess Anwen?” asked a voice to her left.
She looked over to see Prince Rillian standing up from a chair, a book in his hand. He put the book down and walked over to her. He kneeled down next to her and took her hand with concern in her eyes. “Are you well?”
She shook her head and try to keep the tears from falling. She had cried too much the past few days. “I just don’t understand why it has to be so hard. I love him, and he loves me. It should be so simple, but so many people seemed to have made it their mission to keep us apart.”
“I don’t know what to say, except that I understand how you are feeling very well. I know what it is like to love and be told it is wrong.”
Anwen stared at him as he pulled a chair close to her. He sat down as she wiped a tear off of her cheek. “I had a feeling your heart had been touched and broken before. I’m sorry to hear it is confirmed.”
He smiled a little. “There has been some time for healing. I don’t want you to think I am a very unhappy man. I am not. I am more concerned with you at the moment.”
“I’ve just had a very full morning, and I am tired. My aunt decided to drag me into an empty parlor and tell me I must drop King Maddoc and marry Prince Korben. She said some other awful things as well.”
“You do find yourself in quite a tangle. I know you feel strongly for your king, and I believe he returns your love, but there is much between you. I know you want it to work out with him, but I would hate for you to be hurt any more than you already have.”
“I have a feeling I will be hurt no matter what I choose. If I truly decide to marry Maddoc, I know I shall face many hardships, but if I give him up, I do not know if my heart can take it.” She took a shuddering breath. “I do not wish to be alone.”
Prince Rillian took her hand. “You don’t have to be alone no matter what you choose. If you have to, let the king go, but do not think no one else will want you.”
She laughed a little. “I suppose I could just marry Prince Korben. I am afraid I would be miserable, but I suppose it would be good for Lucidala.”
“No, dear princess, you must not marry that man. I am afraid of what would happen to you if you put yourself in his power. I would not want to see your strong will be broken by such a man.”
She shook her head. “How have you gone on? Is there not hope you can be with the one you love.”
He looked down. “No, and there never was.” He looked up at her, hesitating for a moment. “The love I experienced many would call unnatural. I hid it from almost everyone I could, especially my father and brother. I felt shame in it, I am sad to say.”
Anwen knew she had a confused look on her face as she tried to understand what he meant by unnatural. It didn’t take long for her to come to a realization. “Oh,” she said with some surprise as he let go of her hand.
“You understand me then, do you? I am afraid I have shocked and disgusted you.”
She grabbed his hand, “No, not at all. I did not mean to imply that in any way.” She looked away for a moment. “I have heard of such things, of course, and when I was young, I walked in on two of my father’s servants sharing a kiss one time. It didn’t seem unnatural to me.”
“I am afraid there are not many in my kingdom who share your point of view. I had known him my whole life, and it has been many years I knew what I felt for him was more than friendship. I tried to deny it, but I was unable to. He told me he felt the same, but both of us knew it could never be.”
“Where is he now?”
“Married to a lovely woman. They have moved out to the country. I believe they just had their second child.”
She gripped his hand. “I am sorry, Prince Rillian. I truly am. I know how that must hurt you.”
“It did, at first, but I am glad to see him settled so. I believe he does love his wife in some way, and she is a good woman. I hope they are happy for many years.”
“I wish I could be as generous as you. When Lachlan left me for Gwendolyn, there were a few weeks I wished they would both fall of the tallest cliff in my kingdom.”
The prince laughed. “Don’t worry, princess. I had similar thoughts when the pain was fresh.”
She sighed. “I do not think I could bear Maddoc marrying anyone else. The thought of having to see him happy with another is something I cannot imagine standing.”
“You are strong, Princess Anwen. You have a kingdom who needs you and friends who love you.” He looked at her as he rubbed her hand. “If you do find it too much to be with your king, I want you to know you have options. I know I may not be what you want in a husband, but I would never hurt you. I would support you and help you with your kingdom. I believe I could even come to love you.” He shook his head. “I am not doing a very good job of this.”
‘No, I understand what you are saying, and if I cannot be with Maddoc I do not think I could ever love someone as I do him. I could see myself being very fond of you. I am sure we could have a nice quiet life together.”
“Then consider it, princess. What you will face here scares me for you. You are too good to be ripped apart by this court or dragged to the altar by that power-hungry prince. We could announce our engagement and leave tomorrow. You would never have to come back here again.”
She reached over and covered his hand with her free one. “You are very sweet, and I would be lying if I said I wasn’t a little tempted, but I cannot give up on my king. I have come too far to turn back. No matter what I must face, I believe I will always choose him.”
The prince brought her hand to his lips. “You are too good for him. I hope you know it.”
She shook her head. “No, I think we are made for each other. I have never given much thought to destiny, but being with Maddoc feels a little like it was meant to be. I cannot throw it away.”
The prince looked like he would say something else when the door to the library opened and Mrs. Owens walked in. Both Prince Rillian and Anwen stood as the old lady walked up to them, trying to catch her breath.
“Princess Anwen, your mother has taken ill in the main parlor. She collapsed and was taken to her room. Lord Elias went to fetch a healer and asked that I find you.”
Anwen put her hand to her chest as her breath caught. She found it hard to speak or think. Her mother was so dear to her. She could not lose her. She looked at Prince Rillian who held out his arm. “Let me take you to your mother’s room, princess.”
Princess Anwen nodded as she took the prince’s arm. She only hoped she could help her mother in some way.