Prologue

The original script has been translated from Latin, our national language, to English, due to changes in the aristocracy.  We must begin at the beginning in order to understand the events that took place.

An island, one of three larger islands located far above the Aleutian Islands in the Bering Sea and located off the coast of Britain, where the people believe it to be the final resting place of one of their greatest heroes, is actually NOT King Arthur’s final resting place, as told in folklore and fairy tales.  What is this place?  This place is called Avalon.  Yet, Avalon does exist.  Those that call this island their home, named it after its founding leader from many centuries ago...

During that long ago time, a ship full of women, in order to break free from the oppression of the male species, decided to set sail in search of a new home, and ended up crashing onto the shores of Avalon.  Some stayed and made this their home, and not wanting this island paradise to fall into the hands of the men they had escaped from, a spell was cast, a spell called the Cloak of Secrecy.  This spell would make the island disappear from existence, as well as taking everyone’s memory of its location and the existence of those inhabiting the island.  The elders say that as Avalon was encompassed by this spell, which also excluded them from the influences of the outside world, the climate changed.  The climate outside the Cloak of Secrecy is always cold and stormy.  Inside the Cloak, however, Avalon had its own climate.  Another world was created inside the Cloak of Secrecy.  The southern region a desert climate, the northern region a very cold climate, the eastern and western regions a spring climate perfect for harvesting fruits and vegetables and raising farming animals.

Brought on by the instinct for survival, the shipwreck survivors flourished on this uninhabited island.  And they are the forebearers of those that call Avalon home today.

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The last sovereign was forced to renounce her position because of ill health, as there was no cure for the illness. The Sage of Healing, as well as the Sage of Wisdom, could not provide a cure, and risky though it was, the sovereign was placed into the magical lake of Sage’s Mountain.  The waters of the lake were said to cure anything, and turn back the hands of time to anyone who wished to seek a cure for any injury or illness.  The waters failed, and Avalon lost its heart the day the sovereign died.

Since the former sovereign had renounced her throne, Alarica was named Sovereign Cyan, ruler over all of Avalon, giving her the freedom to do right for the future of Avalon.

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Sovereign Cyan Alarica is a beauty like no other.  She stands at over six feet tall, with piercing blue eyes, hair as dark as pitch and shines like glass in the light, high cheekbones, and well-toned and tanned physique from hours of the warrior arts of old that give her the movements of a panther, and the appearance of a goddess.  Smooth, sleek, and graceful as she moves about, she is unbeaten by any who dare offer her a challenge.

Her queen, Queen Melisandra, is equally beautiful, with long, flourishing golden hair, bright blue eyes, stands only slightly shorter than her sovereign, and has a beautiful figure that would make any woman jealous.

Sovereign Cyan Alarica and Queen Melisandra’s marriage was arranged at birth by tradition, with the belief they would be a good match.  They married as Alarica reached her twenty-first year - Alarica, denoting strength, beauty, and intelligence, Melisandra symbolizing beauty and poise – together, they would rule Avalon. 

Along with the day to day queenly duties, Melisandra was required, at their first anniversary, to become pregnant, to provide an heiress that would be the next successor to rule Avalon.  The ancestors had run across the problem, since it was a matriarchal society, when the island had first been settled, so a few women were sent back to sea to find suitable mates.  Not far from Avalon, one day’s travel by ship to the east, the seeking women found a small island called Phallustine.  Phallustine Island, a mostly patriarchal society, was the perfect place, as the men there did not want anything to do with women other than for child bearing. An agreement between the two societies was reached, stipulating that the women would be the ones to come to Phallustine Island, all male children would be brought to the eastern island to live, and the parents would have no claim as to the parenting rights of the children.

The elders of Avalon, the first inhabitants of the island, created the Magical Portal, a magical door that can teleport anyone, or anything, to any country desired, so the archives say.  But mainly it was created to facilitate travel between Avalon and Phallustine during mating season. At the right time, one merely walks through the portal, and they are immediately transported to their destination.

The queen, being in season, was immediately transported to Phallustine Island via the portal, as the Phallustine prince had agreed to such an arrangement. One week later, the queen returned after the session with the prince, and was immediately tested for positive pregnancy.  The queen gave birth to the princess nine months later.

These are the rulers of Avalon, with Princess Claryvorra as future sovereign of Avalon.

 

Part 1

Survivors of shipwrecks that crashed, caused by the stormy seas, throughout the years upon Avalon’s shore, would speak of America, making many of the inhabitants of the island curious, wanting to visit this place talked about.  It was always a shame to release the survivors without memory of their stay on Avalon, but had to be done this way though, if Avalon was to stay a secret.  

Alarica’s grandmother had been one who had yearned for the adventure, and left Avalon to seek a bond with the leader of America, but failed due to lack of foresight and preparedness.  Their stories had intrigued Alarica, and she, since then, had always wanted to follow in her grandmother’s footsteps, dreaming of exploring America, arguing with her sovereign that it was time, time to seek that bond again.  She prepared herself by reading the annals that had been collected secretly from the outside world.

In the center of the isle, high on a mountaintop, there stands a grand structure.  Though humble in its appearance, its size more than makes up for the lack of beauty that one might expect from the house of Avalon’s ruling family.  Some say that it would easily house all of the island’s inhabitants should there be a need.

On the eastern side of the castle, if someone were to look up to the balcony, they would see our beloved ruler, standing there, leaning against the railing with a goblet in her hand. She gazes out, overlooking the meadows of the eastern territory with a contemplative look on her face, which changes to a slow and easy smile.

Elmira, the sovereign’s sister and a smaller version of our sovereign, though with different coloring, holds the position as her assistant.  She appears on the balcony, wanting to see our sovereign, requesting the clarification of the rumor of moving to America that has circulated throughout the castle, and which Queen Melisandra has heard.

Alarica is bored.  Avalon has been at peace for many generations, and she wishes to form an alliance with the American President.  Our sovereign orders Elmira to see that a report is completed as to the preparations for departure, confirming the rumor without really speaking it out loud, and that Queen Melisandra is to oversee such preparations.  It is one of the queen’s many duties, after all.

Alarica stands there for just a moment longer after her meeting with Elmira.  Preparations have to be made, meaning she has to do her part as well, which entails something that she does not wish to do: speak with the advisory council.  The advisory council consisted of four older women who would voice their views according to the information that was given to them.  Alarica did not appreciate them, thinking them a bunch of old hags that had nothing better to do but to cause confusion among the masses.  Granted, they could not say anything officially, however, that did not stop them from whispering among themselves about the goings on of the state of their beloved Avalon.  The right person would hear the whispers, and soon, confusion would start among the commoners.

On the way to the council chambers, she saw that at the end of the hall stood an older version of her self.  There was an air of wisdom about her, with salt and pepper tresses, and wrinkles at the edges of her eyes. She was our Sovereign’s teacher in strength, beauty, and wisdom.  This was our sovereign’s mother. She had once been the queen of Avalon, but now, her place is that of unofficial advisor to our present sovereign, her daughter.

Alarica and her mother, Lady Leonessa, converse for quite a while, the topic of discussion being that the advisor is to follow her daughter to America.  Lady Leonessa, too, has heard the rumors.  Our sovereign is furious to hear that the council has made the announcement.  "I am the sovereign, not the council.  I decide what the people should know.  They do not have that power!” our sovereign yells at her mother about this.  Lady Leonessa calms her daughter, to further deliver her news.  It seems that our lady had made the decision for her daughter.  Councilor Ernestine is to follow our sovereign to America.  "Ernestine? Mother, Ernestine!?” she can not believe she heard the news correctly.  Councilor Ernestine, away from the council chambers, on a good day, is rude, obnoxious, and arrogant.  The arrogance growing the longer she is chief advisor to the crown of Avalon.  She has been the chief advisor for quite a while now, and believes herself to be the ruling crown of Avalon, not our present sovereign.  Councilor Ernestine is not well liked in the castle, and Sovereign Cyan Alarica, on more than one occasion, whispers her wishes to behead the councilor.  "Mother, I believe that the only reason you chose Councilor Ernestine was to free yourself from her presence,” Sovereign Cyan Alarica says to her mother with a bit of a smile on her face.

Lady Leonessa always has the last word, "Daughter, is it not your duty to care for your elders."

As her mother leaves, Alarica hangs her head, knowing that the only person that is able to defeat her in physical or verbal combat is walking away from her at that very moment.  Deep breathing a few times before proceeding to find Ernestine leaves her feeling at least a little relaxed.  Not wanting to kill a member of the council is a good thing, after all.  As is expected, arguing can be heard throughout the castle.  The servants have run away shaking their heads, as the arguments stem from the necessary preparations to arguments of torture.  This has gone on for a while, until Claryvorra asks for her mother’s attention.  The harsh voice heard only moments before is suddenly transformed to a voice of love and joy.  Claryvorra wonders about the arguing.  She tried asking the servants and her caretaker, but they would only say it is not something that a child should know.

After reassuring Claryvorra and explaining the argument that she had heard, Alarica addresses the elder, "Ernestine, you will do as I say.  You have your orders.  Be sure to follow them through."

Councilor Ernestine believes in the ways of old, and speaks Latin instead of English, despite orders.  Only Ernestine would have the gall to say "Of course, my sovereign.  I hear and obey.  However, it was always the sovereign's pleasure to hear of the negative reactions that the council may have.”  Our sire is not pleased to hear this.

"I am sure I have never stated a delight in hearing the negative reactions of the council.  They know what I expect, as should you.  I am your sovereign."

Leave it up to Ernestine to further argue the point.  "But, sire, will you listen?  I. . ."

"In case you have forgotten, Sovereign Cyan Camilla is dead.  I am not Sovereign Cyan Camilla.  I am Sovereign Cyan Alarica, with her Queen Melisandra.  Do not forget that!”  Our sovereign is quite angry with Ernestine.

Lady Leonessa has heard the arguing, and in true Lady Leonessa fashion, seeks a way to end the feud. She simply shoots an arrow between the two to cease the argument.  Lady Leonessa has a love of the English language, and uses it whenever she can, and tells Ernestine, in English, to follow her sovereign’s order or meet her in the practice fields.  Alarica knows then, just how her mother feels about the arguing.  When asked to go to the practice fields, it means a challenge, a challenge that her mother is sure to win, as age has not been a factor in her physical condition.  Ernestine, however, always shot her own foot with an arrow, as inept as she is, and the fact that she enjoys her sweets far too much, make her an easy target.

Lady Leonessa has had enough, and makes sure Councilor Ernestine understands.  "Ernestine, you understand English.  We studied English alongside each other as children, as well as having many arguments, in English, when Sovereign Cyan Camilla was alive.  Has old age deteriorated your mind? I will not repeat myself.  If you do not answer me, I will assume you wish to meet with me at the practice fields.  Which is it?"

"Such harsh tones, my Lady Leonessa, a lady should be kind and caring while in court.  Yes, I hear my Lady Leonessa’s words, though I was only pointing out the concerns of the council to our kind and lovely sovereign.  I just feel that our sovereign needs more time before being appointed."

"Ernestine, I will only say this once.  Sovereign Cyan Alarica is not only my daughter, she is the one that I have trained myself, and am proud to call my sovereign.  Do not force me to choose. You will lose.  Remember also, Ernestine, I am of a higher status than you.”  Lady Leonessa reaches between them to pull the arrow from the wall.  There is an audible gulp from Ernestine, and a proud smile from Alarica.

Ernestine leaves immediately to see to her orders, after throwing a tantrum in her chambers.  Upon hearing the crashing, screaming, and crying, all residents of the palace shake their heads in disgust at this behavior.  Everyone within the palace feels that Ernestine should be removed from office.  Removing her from office would be easier said than done, however, for there is a long and detailed process to remove someone from the council.  Therefore, she has been urged to retire her seat.  She will never retire her seat though, and spreads rumors that their sovereign should retire from the throne instead.

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Alarica has left to see to the packing of her healing remedies, as she is a skilled healer, having learned as much as she could from her mother.  Mother Camilla was a skilled healer herself, and did not seek any outside assistance.  That is, until she fell ill herself.  The illness was beyond her capabilities.  Though they had not been as close as she and mother Leonessa, they’d had an amicable relationship. She packs what she feels she absolutely need, and can always contact her mother if she thinks she needs something else.  Mother Leonessa is a skilled healer herself, though, both mothers feeling it best to share the duties of raising their future sovereign.

The sun is setting as the day is done. Cleaning up after a day at work is common practice on Avalon.  The lanterns are lit, table set for the last meal, and preparations for a night’s rest are completed.  This night is to be different, however.  After supper, Alarica has called a meeting in the antechamber, a less formal room than the throne chamber, with cushions strewn about on the floor in a circle for everyone to seat herself.

Sovereign Cyan Alarica states her wishes to proceed with the move to America. Her plans are to form an alliance with the American President, to let the world know of Avalon’s existence. As soon as everything and everyone is prepared, they are to use the portal.  The portal is a magical door that allows the people to move from Avalon to the outside world, because there would be no other way to leave Avalon and reach their destination in a short span of time.

Our fair Queen Melisandra is nearly faint with the news, not believing what she has heard.  "They are barbarians," she says.  “Why would I need to socialize with such barbarians?"

The sovereign’s statement is quite clear in her reply to her queen, "As we view them as barbarians, they would view us as barbarians as well.”  She and the queen are to rendezvous in the bathing chambers later, to discuss the matter further.

Of course, Councilor Ernestine feels her duties to be elsewhere "My dear, beloved sovereign, surely you do not mean to send me there, do you?  I can be of great assistance to you here, my dear, beloved sovereign.  I cherish the idea of working with you," Ernestine says, while rising and bowing as low as she can, hoping to change the sovereign’s mind.

Mentally rolling her eyes and feeling nauseas, "Ernestine, you will do as I say.  Remember what I had told you. Dismissed…” Alarica has grown bored of the arguments and wishes she had a weapon in her hand now and…well, it was an idea.

After the meeting, the events of the day show themselves as exhaustion on our sovereign’s face.  She asks Elmira to put the report on her desk, as she will read it in the morning.  Elmira is to also see that the necessary preparations are being made for her daughter’s education.  They spend a little while longer together, enjoying each other’s company.  After a reassurance of everything being well, Alarica leaves to see to other matters, most importantly, her appointed rendezvous, and proceeds to the bathing chamber, to join her queen.  Sounds of lovemaking soon follow, and as they reach ecstasy, the reverberations are heard through the night.  Moans, groans, and declarations echo through the palace.

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Alarica wakes up the next morning on top of her queen, finding herself sticky with sweat and sweet love juices that flowed through the night.  Though the bath is cold and still scented with calming lavender from the night before, she proceeds into the large pool that is the bath, whose size would fit a commoner’s house, with plenty of room for exit and entry.  She only needs to wash the remnants of last night’s session from her body, and finishes quickly.  Leaving the queen asleep on the floor of the bathing chamber, she proceeds to finish readying herself for the day.  There is much to do.

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Alarica sends for her queen as soon as her daughter’s caretaker arrives, telling the servants to ready the queen quickly.  Though tardiness from the queen is not unheard of, one of the duties of being queen is that of a model of behavior that is to be followed by everyone.  Repeatedly, they have had this discussion.  Always, an excuse is given for the reason for her tardiness.  They would have this discussion, again, tonight.

Queen Melisandra finally enters slowly, a satisfied smile upon her face, knowing that, since everyone has left, her sovereign will be receptive to tender caresses.  The queen excuses her tardiness by stating that she did not want the wonderful sensations from last night’s lovemaking to end.  The queen’s plans fall through, as Alarica turns around to clear the goblets that were left behind, leaving the queen’s arms empty.

Alarica needs the necessary distraction of clearing away the goblets, and when feels she is ready, addresses her queen’s behavior, as well as the report of the progress of moving to America.  This is not the sort of meeting the queen was wishing for, and instead of leaving satisfied, the queen leaves very angry, very frustrated, and very disappointed.

A servant comes to clear the goblets, and instead, finds them placed on a tray on the center table.  Alarica sees the servant leave as she picks up the final report. She finds everything to her satisfaction, finally, everything coming together as they should. She inhales and exhales deeply, relaxing as she experiences the cool breeze blowing in through the window, and smelling the flora mingling in the breeze.

It has been a long day, and our sovereign seeks for something to release the frustrations of the day, so she readies herself for the practice fields to fight an invisible foe.  Lady Leonessa is searching for something to release her frustrations of the day as well, and sees her daughter in the practice fields, immediately knowing how to release those frustrations.  As the sovereign comes down for a strike, it is suddenly blocked.  There is only one person who knows how to block that move.

"Does mother want to play with me?”  Alarica asks with laughter in her voice.

"Yes, daughter, mother wants to play.  Shall we?”  Leonessa replies as she gets into position.

They spend time sparring in the practice fields, and if anyone is seeing them spar, it would remind them of the days of old, as Lady Leonessa taught her young daughter how to handle a weapon. Lady Leonessa lands on the ground, flat on her back, marking the end of the session.  She starts laughing.  "Now I know I am getting old.  My own daughter bested me in a sparring match, a match that I used to win time and again."

Alarica is still stunned, but relieved to see her mother laughing.  "Mother, you are not old.  You simply let me win."

"Alarica, let us face facts, shall we?  I am getting old.  I wear the colors as well as show the signs of an aging woman.  Help me up, will you?"

"Mother, you may look old, but you are far from being old," Alarica says as she helps her mother off the ground.

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Alarica has to be certain that her advisor ss making the necessary preparations.  The thought of finding Councilor Ernestine, or for that matter, anything to do with Councilor Ernestine, always causes her to feel physically ill, most often with a nauseous stomach, as well as a headache.  Finding and swallowing the necessary herbal remedy to cure the headache and stomachache she is feeling gives her renewed strength to deal with the counselor.  She expects to find Ernestine in the archives studying American History.  Instead, Alarica finds Ernestine napping in her chambers.  Alarica pours water into a goblet and pours it over Ernestine’s face. Ernestine wakes up from her nap, furious that someone would do such a thing, and threatens to call a guard to shackle them.  She went back to sleep, only to find herself suddenly awakened by the whispers of her sovereign telling her, "If you do not start preparing yourself now, you will find yourself in America all alone for an entire year before anyone else arrives.”  Not willing to risk the punishment for challenging the statement, Ernestine immediately wakes up and heads straight to the archives to read about American History. Alarica would not have believed it if she had not seen it for herself, that Councilor Ernestine was, indeed, capable of moving so quickly.  Will wonders never cease?

Now came her favorite part of the day—spending time with her daughter.  Upon seeing the sovereign approach, Claryvorra’s caretaker gives her a briefing of the day’s activities thus far.  Taking her daughter’s hand, they walk toward the sovereign’s laboratory to teach her daughter about healing remedies.  They enjoy their time together, though Alarica dreads the day that her daughter will turn sixteen years old.  As was done to the sovereigns of the past, the next in the royal line are sent to Sage’s Mountain to continue their education at that age.  Family members give their heart and soul to the child, while the sages give them wisdom.  The consolation is that the princess still has a long time to go before she is sent away.

Alarica will teach her daughter healing secrets, the caretaker will teach her history, philosophy, mathematics, language, and literature, Lady Leonessa will teach her the warrior arts, and Queen Melisandra will teach her social responsibilities and etiquette.  This encompasses the princess’s daily activities, and she excels at all of them.

After her session with her daughter, she leaves the palace to stroll the grounds.  Left to her own thoughts, Odette’s betrayal comes to mind.  Alarica believed that she had found her heart, her soul in Odette, who resembled the woman in her dreams.  The sovereign found her companion, but it was not to be.  Odette had been using the portal without consent, exploring the outside world.  During her explorations, she fell in love.  Odette was going to leave a note to her sovereign, gather her meager belongings, and live happily with her newfound love.  However, a passing guard saw the companion pass through the portal and had immediately reported it to the sovereign.  The sovereign waited beside the portal to shackle Odette immediately upon arrival.  All of Odette’s memories were scanned, and all had been revealed.  She was guilty of betrayal, and the sentence was complete erasure of memory, to be executed immediately, and banished forever.  During the time of war, treason was punishable by death.  Complete erasure of memory and banishment was the alternative.  The sovereign had not found a replacement, nor did she ever see a replacement for her companion.  The betrayal hurt her deeply, and she did not wish to be hurt like that again.

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It had taken Alarica one year to prepare for departure.  So the time has come for change, and an adventure she will never forget.

 

Part 2

Finally, came the day of departure.  It had taken our sovereign one year of preparations before this moment.

Alarica stands in front of the portal, with everyone behind her waiting, Queen Melisandra, Princess Claryvorra, and a select group including guards and servants.  She stands there, thinking.  History may repeat itself, but only if we do not heed the lessons that history teaches us.  I remember grandmother telling me that two of her favorite servants were lost because they fell through the portal as it was transitioning between doorways.  The punishment of banishment is carried through by pushing the guilty through the portal at any given moment, just as I had done with Odette.

Alarica takes a count of everyone in attendance.  All are there except Ernestine.  The guard reports that Councilor Ernestine has been awakened and would arrive at any time.  She can not wait any longer.  The doorways are random, so there is no telling when the proper doorway will appear.

“I would like everyone’s attention.  I want to remind everyone that it is paramount that we wait for the proper doorway to appear.  If we do not, and pass through the portal while the portal is in transition, we will be forever lost, without any means of return.  Am I making myself perfectly clear?”  Scanning the crowd, she sees everyone nodding their head in agreement.  Now, all they have to do was wait.  It should come up anytime now, England, Ireland, Russia, Antarctica; soon, it will be here soon.

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Ernestine finally arrives, still half-asleep, which means that the chance of something going wrong increases.  She is not paying any attention where she is going, so tripped over a floor tile, which causes her to push a guard, creating a domino effect.

“Ernestine, be careful.  No!!  Ernestine!!”  Everyone was pushed through the portal.

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One year had passed since everyone was pushed through the portal, and Alarica thanked every deity she could think of for everyone’s safe arrival.  No thanks to Ernestine, she thought.  After the incident, it was a silent proclamation to shun Ernestine for her ill timing and negligence, negligence for her thoughtlessness as well as negligence for everyone’s well being.  It was a long time before the members of the household forgave the adviser.

Time had passed, and now it was just a matter of getting used to the American mentality, custom, and lifestyle.  This would be a hard and difficult task.  The two societies were so much different.  The Americans were looked upon as chaotic and unfeeling, always in a hurry.  The people of Avalon lived a simple life of horse drawn carriages and neighbors reaching out for one another.  No matter where they looked, be it the streets or the shops, everyone seemed of the same mentality: cautious.  There was a mission to accomplish, though, and it would be done.

Things were going according to plan and were going to work out just as she thought it would.  Well, that was what she thought at one time, but now she realized she was being naive.  She forgot to account for the male mentality she would encounter.  The quiet whispers, the howling, and the groping were encountered at least everyday, but this was to be expected.  Time and patience was what she needed, that and a dagger to be rid of the many hands that touched her private person.

Meanwhile, an eight year old had a report to write of a foreign country.  She asked her mother to take a walk with her to view the houses of the representatives from different countries.  There, at the end of the block, was a large house with large, wooden double doors.  There was a driveway that led to the street cut off by a high iron gate, which, even when the child stood on tiptoes, the top still could not be reached.  There was a sign outside on the gate that read Avalon.  She never heard of it before and thought it would make a great report.  All she had to do was ask someone inside if she could have some information to help her.

There is a guard posted outside the gate.  The little girl walks up to the guard and asks, “Excuse me, ma'am, but could I go in, please?  You see, I have to write a report on a foreign country, and I can’t do that because I don’t have any information on it.  Could I go?”

The guard replies with a straight face, “I am sorry.  You may not enter without an invitation, and you must be accompanied by a member of the household.”  The guard immediately turns to face the street, ending the conversation.

The eight year old notices a car pull in to the driveway.  The gate opens to let the car in and she sneaks in alongside the car before her mother can grab her.  The guards find her, however, and she is immediately escorted off the premises.  With a scowl on her face, arms crossed and foot tapping, she stands there thinking of another way to gain entry, not paying attention to her mother’s insistence on leaving.  There has to be a way to get in there somehow.  All I want is some information.  I’m just a kid, what could I do?  Realizing that maybe another try on another day would be best, she finally calms down enough to hear her mother and starts to walk away.  Then, she hears a voice.

“Welcome to the house of Avalon.  How may I be of service to you?”

The little girl stops and turns around, only look up and up and even further up, and once her gaze is upon the face of the person addressing her, she sees where the voice is coming from.  Looking up into the eyes of the stranger, she replies, “Hi, my name is Melisent, but my friends call me Mel.  I’m supposed to do a report on a country.  I asked my mama if she would take a walk with me to help me figure out what country.  I saw your sign and I told my mama that’s it, that’s the one.  I was going to go and ask if they had any information that I could have.  But since you’re here, do you?”  Giggling, she amended her question, “Oh, I forgot, please, may I have some information?  I tried asking the lady at the gate, and she said I couldn’t come in without an invitation.  Does this mean I have an invitation now?”

Alarica is amazed that such a small child would have so much to say, and feels the child to be gifted with the knowledge of words, and well mannered.  She has no choice but to reply.  “Greetings to you, I am Alarica.  Yes, you have an invitation now, and I may have some references that would assist you.  If you will follow me, I will see what there is that I may give to you.”

Melisent, with a big smile on her face, simply says, “‘Kay.”  They all walk up the driveway and through the iron gate.  As they approach the doors, Melisent is amazed that the doors are so tall.  “They must be ten feet tall.  Wow, mama, look at how tall the doors are!”

Alarica’s eyes leave Melisent’s gaze, to find a reflection of her dreams.  In the sunlight, the golden tresses have a reddish glow that top a very petite woman who stands well below Alarica’s bust line.  Small in height and stature, with the face of an angel, there she stands: her consors, her next companion.  The dreams have come alive--I have been wrong.  I have been wrong all along and chose the wrong person to be my consors.  Clearing her thoughts, Alarica turns around to open the door to let her guests enter the house.

Alarica places her hand gently upon Melisent’s shoulder.  “Does your mother not wish to come inside?” she asks with a concerned tone, wondering why a mother would let her child be with a stranger.  Alarica would never hurt a child, but she was still a stranger.

Not knowing what to say, Melisent shrugs her shoulders and walks back outside to get her mother.  She pulls and tugs her mother’s hand to encourage her to follow.  Finally, mother, toddler, and child walk into the house to join their host, waiting for them at the door.  Once inside, the mother stands by the door, hands folded, clutching her toddler’s hand, her head down and feet together, looking a bit like a punished child.  The face is expressionless, the eyes an empty green, now that Alarica has a better look.

She knows this will be her next consors.  It will not be an easy task to accomplish, but she knows that with time and patience, this will be her greatest treasure found in America.  The greatest treasures, after all, at first appear dull and lifeless, but with effort, become the most precious gems anyone can possess.  Two fingers gently, and slowly, lift the mother’s chin, hoping the eyes will follow.  The eyes turn downcast as the chin is lifted though.  In a gentle tone, she says, “Greetings, I am Alarica.  Who would you be?”  Alarica is pleased, as the woman starts blinking, eyes coming into focus upon her.

This woman asked her a question, and knows she has to answer.  When someone asks a question, an answer is expected.  However, thoughts of her mother, telling her repeatedly that no one wants to listen to a babbling idiot who is not able to speak without sounding like a baby, come into her head.  She was asked a question, though, and fear determines her next decision.  She motions for Melisent to come back beside her, and after a whispered conversation, Melisent states, “My mama told me to tell you that her name is Breanne.”

The child answering for her mother confuses Alarica.  She has been studying American culture and habits, but is unaware that this is another American custom.  More research is needed to find the answer.  She also thinks Breanne to be timid, which to her, did not make sense.  The child is bright and lively, but her mother is timid, which has Alarica puzzled as to how this could be.  Hearing screams for her eminence from her councilor, Alarica closes her eyes, wishing for a hole to appear to swallow Ernestine.  “Please accept my apologies and hospitality while I find the reason for the screaming.”  Bowing at the waist, she adds, “Please pardon me.”  She then walks backwards three steps before turning around to see to Ernestine’s execution.  On her way out, Alarica instructs Elmira to be sure that her guests are comfortable.

Seeing somebody else approaching, Mel starts introductions.  “Hi, I’m Melisent, what’s your name?  This is my mama, Breanne, and my baby sister, Emily.  She’s three years old.  I forgot to introduce Em to the woman that left.  She seems really nice.”

Elmira escorts them into the study, which is a large room with a floor-to-ceiling window that spans the entire length of the wall, and would allow Alarica to see outside, but no one would be able to see inside.  It is also bulletproof, helping to provide extra security.  Alongside of the window is a large built-in bookcase, filled floor-to-ceiling and wall to wall with various books, both old and new.  On the opposite side is the lavatory, alongside the wardrobe closet.  The desk is a large wooden desk, with two leather chairs in front, placed in front of the picture window.  Providing comfort for the visitors, a circle of cushions, on which to sit, surround a low table off center on the carpet.  If so desired, comfortable chairs can replace the cushions.  A love seat surrounded by two small tables offers another place of comfort by the doorway.

Elmira, smiling, breaks their trance as the small family circles in place, admiring the room.  “Hi and welcome.  I am Elmira.  Let me pour you something to drink while waiting for her return.”  Pouring three glasses for the guests, she notices the mother standing by the entryway to the study, while both daughters have found comfort on the cushions on the floor.  However, the mother continues standing by the entryway with her head down and back so straight, nothing would be able to pass between the wall and the woman’s back.  Elmira is puzzled with this display, not having seen anything like this before.

Alarica, having finished speaking with Ernestine, returns to her guests, noticing the puzzled look on her sister’s face and wonders what the cause is.  Both sisters’ gaze meet, and know what each is thinking.  Elmira motions to Breanne, indicating the answer to her sister’s questioning gaze.  Alarica nods and thanks her for her assistance.

“I go peepee now!” declares the toddler.  Melisent looks around the room trying to find a bathroom.  Spotting one, she says, “Excuse me, Miss Alarica, but Em just turned three years old and she needs to go really bad.  Could she use the bathroom, please?”

“Of course she may use the lavatory,” Alarica replies, thinking the mother will still be standing against the wall.  She is proven wrong, as she sees the mother assisting the children into the bathroom.  Quietly, a conversation is held among the three then mother and toddler stay behind in the bathroom while Melisent approaches the sovereign.  “Excuse me, Miss Alarica, but it is nearly lunch time, and my sister gets cranky when she gets hungry.  Could you point me in the direction of your library or give me the books now so we can go?”  Looking up into Alarica’s eyes, she amends, “Sorry, forgot again.  Please, may I have them?”

“Of course you may have them now.  The books that I will be giving you are very precious to us.  As a show of faith, I will need something of yours that is precious to you.  I will keep your treasure safe here with me.  I will return your treasure back to you when you return the books to us.”

“Well. . .  I don’t really have anything . . . wait, yeah I do.”  Melisent reaches behind her neck to take off her treasured item. Feeling another pair of hands, she looks behind her to see her mother unclasping the necklace.  Accomplishing the task, Breanne gives Melisent her necklace.  Holding out her hand, she states, “Miss Alarica, this is my locket.  It’s the only treasure I have.  Would you keep it for me, and I promise that I will give you back your books.  The report is due in three weeks, and I should be done with the books in about two weeks, but I’ll give you back your books when I hand in my report . . . if that’s okay?”

Alarica stretches out her open hand to receive the necklace, and studies the necklace carefully, then places it in a secret pocket located inside her cloak, with the intention of placing it in a secure location later.

“I know it doesn’t look like much, but it’s my locket.  It has our picture inside of it.  It’s the only treasure that I have,” Melisent utters, shrugging her shoulders.

“This will be fine, Melisent.  I will place it in a safe place later.  Let us go now to the archives to find the necessary books, shall we?”  They both head in the direction of a large room located directly across from the study.  The room is filled to the brim with books.  No matter which direction Melisent turns, there are books everywhere.  There is a small case with scrolls stuffed inside cubbyholes, and a large table surrounded by chairs in the middle of the room.  A light fixture from above provides the necessary light.

Alarica has an idea of what sort of references are needed, since she had studied many of the texts and scrolls herself.  Placing the books inside a satchel, she lifts the satchel to judge the weight.  “I believe these will give you the necessary information.  Will this be too heavy for you?”  Alarica asks.  Just then, another hand reaches out to grab the satchel, as Breanne had quietly approached them after finishing with Emily in the bathroom.

Breanne and the girls have a whispered conversation.  Melisent stands there, smiling and nodding to what her mother is asking then the three of them are ready to leave.  There are things that need to be done.

Alarica is slowly becoming enchanted to this little mother with such a bright child, and though she is confused, she believes Breanne to have a mother’s heart and a beautiful spirit.  Unknowingly, the young mother has cast a spell over the sovereign.  Perhaps there is a chance to spend more time with Breanne, over the afternoon meal, maybe?  The queen is always away shopping at the mall, the mall being something new and exciting for her when she discovered it upon arrival, which means, Alarica is here, alone, to spend time with someone who will be her next consors.

Never speak when other people are present.  No one wants to listen to someone who cannot speak properly without spittle coming out of the mouth.  These words are repeating themselves over and over again.  Breanne knows it is rude not to respond, and to ask Melisent to speak for her, but what choice does she have, as she is not able to change the way she speaks.  They tried therapist after therapist, but nothing worked.  So Breanne was taught not to talk to anyone, and stay out of the way until everybody was gone.  No one would miss somebody that stupid anyway.  If she did talk, it meant suffering the consequences that she did not want.

Alarica needed an answer to her question.  Why does she use her daughter to speak for her?  She wanted to encourage Breanne to speak for herself, but was unsure how to proceed.  “Breanne, would you care to stay and share an afternoon meal with me?  We would be able to sit and chat with one another.”

Breanne panicked.  Why does she insist on talking to me?  I’m nothing.  I’m stupid, and I’m fat.  I don’t understand.  Breanne starts to rush out of the house, not having planned for this to happen.  Melisent was supposed to get the necessary information and leave.

Alarica is further confused.  A moment ago, everything seemed to be as they should have been, but now, she is not too sure.  “Breanne, is something wrong?  The baby is all right, yes?  Breanne, I assure you that when the books are returned to me, the necklace will be given back to Melisent.  I will keep the necklace safe until all is returned.”  Alarica tilts her head slightly, in confusion over the events that have unfolded.  She focuses her will, and hears Breanne’s thoughts.  “I do not understand.  You are something because you are a mother, and I insist on speaking with you because I would like to get know you better.”

Melisent knows her mother, and knows what the look on her face means.  That look means that her mother is scared, thinking that maybe retreat is the answer.  “Thank you, Miss Alarica, for your help.  We have to go now.  We’ll keep them safe.  I promise, cross my heart.  Goodbye now, we have to go.”  Melisent starts walking backwards, following her mother to the front door and watching Alarica following them.

Alarica is still confused, even more so now.  Things changed rapidly before her eyes, not knowing if it was something she had said or done.  What confuses her even more is the look of fear on all of their faces; not just Breanne’s.  Seeing that they will bump a table that is behind them, she tries to stop them, but fails.  Instead, they turn around and run out the door.  Alarica runs after them, but stops, thinking that tomorrow would be a better day.

She does not see them the next day, or the day after that.  Alarica thinks the deity to be cruel to deny her this woman.

==========

Three weeks have passed, and during that time, Breanne, who loves to paint, finishes the paintings that are to be hung in the local art gallery.  Painting is her world, her creation, something that she can control, and becoming a god in her paint world.  It is during this time that nothing else exists.  The canvas, the paints, and the tools used to create her pictures are all that she needs.  Her mother told her she was getting fat, so therefore, she does not eat.  She ignores her growling stomach, and as long as she was sitting and resting, she does not have any dizzy spells.  She has an alarm clock that is set to ring at the necessary times to care for the girls.  This is her world, her existence.  Nothing else matters.  After all, nobody wants to be friends with someone who sounds like a child talking . . . right?

==========

Alarica is confused and angry.  Confused over what happened, and angry that she could not find the answer.  Everyone kept their distance in the manor.  Princess Claryvorra would sleep with her mother, hoping that maybe during sleep, her love would spread to her mother and then the mother she knew and loved would be again.  Alarica needed to think.  She needed to do something, and decided that a walk would be the key.  She pulled on her boots, the appropriate dress, and her cloak to ready herself for an adventure.  Claryvorra wanted to go along with her mother, wanting to spend more time with her.  The princess got herself ready before asking her mother to take her.  Alarica agreed, and both walked out the door, hand in hand.

They came upon the town square, where Alarica suddenly stopped when she saw Breanne sitting at the center fountain.  Claryvorra knows her mother had met someone, and is confused about the events, and is further confused about what just happened.  “Mother, why did you stop suddenly?  Is there something or someone that you are curious about?”

Hearing her daughter’s voice brings her mind back into focus.  “It is her, Claryvorra, sitting at the water fountain.  It is she.  I thought I would not see her again, but there she is.  Come on.  I have some inquiries that must be answered.”  Alarica holds her daughter’s hand and proceeds to the water fountain.

Breanne looks up and sees Alarica approaching.  She gets up from where she is sitting and starts walking towards the bookstore that her children are visiting, listening to the storyteller.  Breanne hears her name called, but thinks she will be able to reach the bookstore before Alarica catches up to her.  She is proven wrong when she feels a hand placed on her shoulder, and that same contralto voice speaks--that kind and gentle voice of the woman she thought she would not see again.  Breanne stops and does not move, does not speak.  She does not want to embarrass the kind woman by having a conversation with her out here in public.  Her mother would not like that.  She keeps her head down, hoping that Alarica will let go so she can escape inside.

Alarica will not be denied this time.  There are too many inquiries that need to be answered, and the only one that has the answers is Breanne. She has found Breanne and is feeling a lot like a panther chasing after its prey, with the panther having caught her prey, and now doing what needs to be done.  To encourage the prey to respond to her without fear is the question, though.  Alarica stands there, waiting for Breanne to acknowledge her presence, but nothing happens.  Alarica lets go, hoping that the power of words instead of the power of might, will bring about the desired response.

Breanne takes the opportunity and escapes inside, finding her kids and telling them to hurry, they have to leave now.  Breanne starts feeling dizzy, the world spinning, breathing hard, and hanging on to whatever she can to keep herself upright, her vision growing dark.  She tries to take a few more steps, before collapsing on the floor.  She awakens in a strange place where nothing looked familiar.  It is not a hospital, the room warm and comfortable, with the smells of flora mingling in the air, confirming this.  She is on a bed next to a tall, wooden cabinet.  There is a small workstation in the middle of the cabinet, and two large windows behind her, with their draperies closed.  There is a love seat under the windows, and a wardrobe closet by the entryway.  Breanne leaves the bed and steps outside to look, but nobody is around.  She uses this as an opportunity to leave whatever this place is.  She has just left the room to find her children, when she feels a hand on her shoulder.

“It is good to see you up and about.  Please follow me back to the laboratory, would you?  Please?”  Alarica is indeed happy that her newfound friend is awake, but there is something wrong, something that has caused the confusion.  She examined both girls and both are healthy.  Melisent was anxious to wake up her mother so they could leave.  To anybody else, Melisent was over reacting, but to Alarica’s experienced eyes, Melisent was preventing her from finding out the truth, whatever the truth is.  It had taken quite a bit of effort for Alarica to calm Melisent, who is now resting in the bedchamber.

Breanne is standing there, looking at Alarica, saying nothing.  She has many questions, none of which will be answered; after all, no one will talk to someone who is not able to speak properly.  She does not understand why this woman insists on taking care of her, why she is being nice to her, and most of all, why she wants to talk to her.  No, she does not understand.  She only knows she has to find her girls and leave.  That is all that matters.

Alarica waits for Breanne to answer.  Maybe she does not understand.  “Did you understand what I said, Breanne?”  Tugging slightly on the fingers as gentle encouragement, Breanne just stands there.  “Breanne, you are at my manor with your daughters.  Melisent is resting peacefully with Emily.  Melisent’s unusual behavior has me worried, however, and I was hoping to discuss the situation with you.  I need us to go back to the laboratory, though, to examine you properly.  The draperies will be drawn to ensure our privacy.  Does that answer your fears?”  Alarica lifts her eyebrow, waiting for an answer.

Breanne thinks she has no choice, but she has to answer.  She needs to do what this woman said in order to leave, not wanting to risk the consequences.  She looks around for paper and something to write with.  She would not be able to speak, but she can express herself with pictures.  The pictures display a message.  Where are my girls?  Are they sick?  Breanne’s arms immediately come up, to defend herself against the beating she knows will follow.  It always happens.  Her mother never liked it when Breanne answered in this manner.

Alarica is still confused.  No matter how much encouragement she uses, she can not get Breanne to give a verbal answer.  Is Melisent protecting her mother?  Alarica reaches up to gently place her hands on Breanne’s arm, to lower them.  “Breanne, you do not need to protect yourself.  Everything is all right.  I promise.  Lower your arms now, so we may proceed to my laboratory.”

Breanne opens her arms just enough to see what sort of reaction she will receive.  She is used to being teased and beaten, but accepted like this was new.  Is she being accepted?  Is that a smile she sees?  Using the smile as encouragement, she slowly lowers her arms, though she immediately puts her hand over her mouth.

Alarica urges Breanne ahead of her, to proceed towards her laboratory.  Alarica closes the draperies behind her.  “Breanne, I need to see you.  You have nothing to fear.  I will not hurt you out of anger or taunt you.  There is a reason why you collapsed inside the bookstore, and I need to find out why.  I am a skilled healer.  Everything I am doing, I will describe to you as I am doing it.  Do you understand?” she gently asks.  Breanne nods her understanding.

“I will now proceed to take off your clothing.  Lower your hand, please.”  Alarica gently taps Breanne’s hand and smiles, waiting for Breanne to respond.  Breanne slowly lowers her hand.  “I need you to raise both arms with the fingertips reaching for the ceiling.”  Breanne looks up to see if there is anything hanging from the ceiling that can be used for torture.  Seeing nothing, she raises her arms slowly, while Alarica removes the sweatshirt that she has been wearing.  “I will now remove the trousers that you are wearing.”  Breanne immediately closes her legs as tight as she can, not knowing what will happen.  Alarica sees this and says, “Relax your legs, Breanne, and let the trousers fall.  Your lingerie will stay on.”

Alarica starts rubbing Breanne’s hips in an attempt to comfort her, and to encourage her as well.  Breanne takes in a deep breath, tenses her body, and lets the trousers fall.  She immediately clutches herself as tight as she can to help protect against the beating she is sure to come.  Closing her eyes as tight as she can, she stands there, listening to Alarica pick up the clothing that is left on the floor.  She feels hands rubbing her shoulders.  “Breanne, I need to see your body.  In order to see your body, I need for you to relax.  It works best if you relax yourself.  If I gave you something to help you relax, the tests may not give me true results.  Relax, Breanne, it is just you and I.”  Alarica continues to rub Breanne’s shoulders, feeling the fear take hold of Breanne as she starts to shake. Alarica starts to sing in an attempt to relax Breanne.

Breanne knows the beating will start.  Her mother would tell her the same thing.  The paddle, where was the paddle?  Why is she singing?  Opening one eye, she sees Alarica standing there, singing and rubbing her shoulders.  Mother never did that.  Breanne slowly lets go and opens both eyes, watching a smile come over the woman who has shown her something she never thought she would ever receive: respect.

Alarica examines Breanne and finds the possible reason for Breanne collapsing.  Breanne is far too skinny.  “Breanne,” she starts as she reaches into a closet for a robe.  “Breanne, I have examined both of your daughters.  Both are healthy and well cared for.  However, I wish the same for you.  You are malnourished, as evidenced by the shape of your body and the fact that you collapsed inside the bookstore.  I can visibly count each and every one of your ribs, Breanne.  That is not something that I would not find on a healthy body,” Alarica says while placing a robe over Breanne’s body.  “I am not sure which paddle you are speaking of, and I was singing you a lullaby.  My mother would sing me a lullaby when I was not feeling well.”

The robe is soft and warm, and she can not help but enjoy the feel.  Alarica smiles, seeing her friend relax at last.  “Melisent was quite concerned over your well being.  She tired herself out struggling with me.  She saw reason, I think, when I told her it would be better if her mother were to stay here with me so I may take care of her because I am a trained healer, rather than go to a hospital.  Here, everyone will be comfortable and well cared for.  She is now resting, after crying herself to sleep, feeling a failure, I think.”

Breanne turns around to find a paper and a pencil, just something to write with to draw a picture then finishing a rough sketch of the question.  How do you know what I’m thinking?  Nobody is supposed to know what I’m thinking.

Alarica slowly places her hand upon Breanne’s shoulder.  Breanne misinterprets the action and thinks Alarica is finally going to give her the beating she has been expecting.  “I will not hurt you, Breanne.  I do not know who has done this to you, to cause such fear within you.  I will not hurt you.  I know what you are thinking because I am able to see to hear your thoughts.  You will not speak to me, so I must find another means of communicating with you.”

“Breanne, I believe you to have a musical voice.  Please speak to me.  Here in this house of Avalon, it is considered rude and a sign of mistrust, using someone else to speak for you.  Remember, I am able to see and hear your thoughts.  Until you decide to speak to me, that is how we will communicate.  I will voice my thoughts and I will read yours.  I am the only one in this house that is able to do this.  No one else, not even my mother, has this ability.  Do you understand what I am saying?”  Alarica says.

Breanne nods her understanding then brings her hand up to cover her mouth in a nervous gesture.  Alarica slowly and carefully lowers it, to grasp its partner in front.  No one wants to read my thoughts ‘cause I’m stupid.  I just want to go home.  I’m sorry for causing so much trouble.

“There is no reason to apologize.  I was merely puzzled about Melisent’s behavior.  The other issues will be addressed later.”  Alarica stands there, thinking of a way to inquire further.  However, she thinks that maybe it will be too much for Breanne right now, starting to regard Breanne as a fragile treasure that must be protected and cared for.

Her thoughts are interrupted by Ernestine, screaming for her eminence.  “I am sorry, minime uni, but Ernestine is insisting that she speak with me about the state of my negotiations with the American President.”  Alarica blows out a breath as she lowers her head to gather what strength she can to prevent her from hurting, or better yet, killing Councilor Ernestine.  Alarica feels a kiss placed on her chest, and looks at Breanne as a smile is forming

Maybe she is just lonely, Breanne thinks, looking into Alarica’s eyes, seeing a smile form on the face that not a moment ago was looking very angry.

“If she is lonely, that would be her own doing.  Please pardon me while I speak to Ernestine.  Make yourself comfortable.  I will see to it that a platter is provided for you, soft foods to start with.”  Alarica walks towards the doorway to open the drapes.

As Alarica starts opening the drapes, she hears Breanne’s thoughts.  I’m fat, though.  She suddenly stops, to turn around and face Breanne.  “We will discuss that later.  Not another word about you being fat.  I will return.  This will only be a moment.”  She once again turns around and opens the drapes.

Breanne stands there, watching Alarica leave the room, not knowing what to think or what to feel. She was told she was too skinny, and she was not hurt.  This is not normal.  It has to be too good to be true.

Breanne closes the draperies again, to give her privacy to change.

==========

Meanwhile, Melisandra has returned home from her excursion and notices the closed drapes.  She thinks of surprising Alarica, having a little bit of fun, by showing her the new lingerie she has purchased.

Breanne is pulling on her pants when the draperies are suddenly opened, and seeing a stranger come into the room, she panics and starts screaming.  Alarica hears the screams and knows that it is Breanne.  She rushes back to her laboratory and sees Melisandra at the doorway, just standing there while Breanne is screaming.

Alarica shoves Melisandra aside without saying a word.  Melisandra comes out of her stupor, only to see Alarica, her sovereign, her love, caring for this stranger.  Melisandra is puzzled.  Who is this woman?  In addition, why does Alarica take care of her?  Was this woman seducing my wife away from me?  She wants answers…and she wants them now!

“Who is this and why are you taking care of her?  I demand an answer!”  Melisandra yells from the doorway.

Alarica ignores her to see to Breanne’s well being.  Breanne relaxes a little and pulls on her pants as they have a private conversation then leaves the room to go find her daughters.  Alarica watches her leave then turns her attention to Melisandra.

“You demand an answer, do you?  You have been spending too much time visiting the market place.  This is your station.  I thought you were aware of your duties, but I was wrong.  Tonight you will relearn everything that a queen, the mate of the sovereign, is to do.  You will relearn everything,” Alarica replies with a cold smile.  She is angry that Melisandra destroyed something she worked so hard to build.

Melisandra is still angry, though, and retorts, “I will speak to you that way because I am the queen.  Did you forget who I am?  Do you need a reminder?  I came back early because I wanted to share love as only two mates can.  Who is she?” she demands not realizing Alarica is getting angrier as her for speaking to her in such a manner.

Alarica snatches the bag Melisandra holds in her hand and sets it on fire with a simple touch. Lowering her voice, says, “Was that it?  Is there anything else?  No?  Good.  Then listen very carefully.  I will speak slowly and carefully so even you may understand.  We will have a discussion after the last meal, to be followed by a sparring session after the morning meal tomorrow.  I will not wait for you to awaken.  If you are not awake, I will wake you up, and if I have to do that . . .” Alarica abruptly turns to leave the room to look for Breanne, leaving behind a stunned and angry queen.

Melisandra knows that tone well.  It is not when the sovereign yells that someone needs to fear, it is when the sovereign speaks softly so only the person for which it is intended will hear.  That is what just happened, and now, Melisandra is scared, very scared, for more than one reason. Perhaps, maybe, there is a possibility that the sovereign can be distracted.  The sovereign is a woman, after all.

==========

Breanne finds the girls in what looks to her like a room for a princess.  Large cushions on the floor with thick blankets on top ready for someone to slumber.  Lined up along the wall is a tapestry, a beautiful tapestry with visions of magical creatures.  The walls are a warm brown, giving the feeling of comfort and warmth.  There are French doors with sheer linen curtains leading to a balcony, an entryway that leads to a double sink washroom, with a wardrobe on the opposite side, large enough to hold clothes for everyone in the manor.  Inside the wardrobe are many drawers and cupboards, without any handles or knobs.  Maybe this is somewhere to sleep.  I have to get the girls.

Alarica finds Breanne in the bedchamber waking up the children.  She wants them to stay, to be sure everything and everyone is all right, so she quickly and quietly walks toward Breanne to stop her from waking the children, knowing that as soon as the children are awake, they will leave.  She gently places her hand on Breanne’s arm to get her attention.

Breanne feels a hand placed on her arm and immediately moves into a position to protect her children, not bothering to look to see who it is, just assuming it is her mother.  Alarica gently pats Breanne’s back, once again trying to get the young mother’s attention.  Breanne instead clutches the children closer to her in an attempt to protect them.

==========

Melisent awakens, with Emily crying, not understanding what is going on.  She turns her head to see why her mother is trying to protect them.  She slips out from her mother’s grasp and stands in front of her.  Breanne quickly grabs Emily and steps out in front of Melisent in a protective stance.  Alarica is stunned, and knows that her efforts of the day are forgotten.  She stops immediately, and kneels on the floor in front of Breanne, lowering herself to a less fearful position.  Breanne takes this opportunity to run away with her children, knowing that the beating will eventually come; it was only a matter of time.  As they run away, Alarica remains there, kneeling on the floor.

Breanne and the children made it back to the house in time to get ready for tonight.  This is the night that her pictures are to be showcased at the local gallery.  Breanne had made previous arrangements with her neighbor to care for her girls, knowing she was going to be late.  So she prepares the girls for a night’s stay at her neighbor’s house, and then they are all ready to go, with Breanne dropping the girls off before leaving for the gallery.

It was a splendid evening as the patrons viewed her pictures.  Comments such as: What wonderful use of color, and I feel as if I am a part of the picture, were heard all around.  “I will not pay a penny below $15,000…” she hears someone say.  Breanne gets home very late, having had a successful night, all of her paintings sold.  All of her babies found a home, and for that, she was very happy, not because of the money, but because her babies will be admired by someone who cares.

 

Part 3

Everything was quiet at the house of Avalon, not out of exhaustion, but from the fear of angering the sovereign even further after everything that had happened.  After the last meal, everyone readied themselves for sleep.  The sovereign escorted her queen to the archives to review the Scrolls of Protocol, with orders to reread and study everything.  The queen would be tested in seven days.  This was followed by a lengthy lecture on proper behavior for a queen to follow when addressing her sovereign.  Sleep did not come until very late that night.

Alarica wakens up as the sun rises the next morning, her wife still snoring.  She picks up a pail of water, to pour over her wife to awaken her; she had been warned.  Melisandra wakes up suddenly, spitting out water and sputtering about who would dare wake the queen in such a manner, only to look up to see the sovereign holding the pail in question.  The queen reluctantly gets up, swallowing her pride, and retrieves a towel to dry herself off.  She is dressed immediately then a weapon of the sovereign’s choice is placed in her hand.  It is not a sword, and for that, she is grateful, meaning she will not have any cuts.  It is a long staff, a weapon she feels confident using, but nowhere near as competent as the sovereign.  She knows she will be sore for days, however, weeks even.  Seduction did not work the night before as she had hoped it would.  She knows the sovereign would have adored her in the lingerie she bought, it is pointless now.  The sovereign will hear about this.  She will talk to her mother and tell her all about what happened.

Alarica’s patience is thin at best, and Melisandra always stretches it beyond its braking point.  She knows the queen will talk to her mother, telling her a story worthy of folklore.  She is prepared for this.  It is a short match that ends with the queen on her back, unable to regain her stance.  Alarica puts her weapon away, undresses herself, and lowers her body into the warm and inviting bathing waters, thinking only of Breanne.

Alarica rises out of the water to get ready for the day, and noticing her body clear of any mark.  Smiling with pride, she continues towards her study along the way seeing her queen enter the manor looking rather haggard after only a short match.

===========

There is a knock at the door to the manor, and Alarica leaves her study to find out who would be knocking on a weekend: no one, as far as she knew, especially on a Sunday.  It is Breanne with her daughters.  Alarica steps aside with a bright smile.  “Breanne, it is good to see you.  I hope you are well today.  Please, come inside and tell me how I may be of service to you.”

Melisent approaches Alarica.  “Good morning, Miss Alarica.  I came back here to return the books.  I am returning them just as you had given them to me.  Thank you very much for letting me borrow them, they were very helpful and fun to read, not at all like the boring history books we have to read.”  Melisent holds out the satchel that contains the books.

Alarica takes the satchel, placing the strap around her shoulder.  “Come with me, back to the archives.  We must return them back to their rightful place.”

They walk across the hall into the archives, and Alarica places the books on the table “Thank you for returning them.  They may rest here until someone else is in need of them again.  You are probably one of very few people who think of these books as fun to read.”  She motioned for everybody to leave the room and escorts them to her study so she can return Melisent’s locket.

===========

Melisandra has left the bathing room looking not much better, just clear of the debris.  Melisandra’s maidens dress her to appeal to the sovereign then the queen goes in search of the sovereign in the study.  When she enters the room, she notes the smile on the sovereign’s face and thinks that maybe she does have a chance.  It is only a matter of time.

Turning towards Breanne, Melisandra says, “Leave us, you have no business here.  Get out, barbarian.”  She then turns towards the sovereign with a smile on her face, only to find that the sovereign’s face no longer shows any sign of love, but anger.

Breanne starts urging the girls to leave the room, but a hand is placed on her shoulder, stopping her.

“Breanne, Melisent, and Emily, please pardon Queen Melisandra.  She has forgotten court etiquette.  She has proven to me that she is unable to behave appropriately,” Alarica explains as she looks into the eyes of her queen.  Alarica shrugs her shoulders slightly when Melisandra leaves the room quite angry.

A large smile forms on Alarica’s face as she sits down beside Breanne on the floor.  Breanne attempts to leave the cushions to stand in a more appropriate spot, only to find her hand grabbed suddenly, and stops to see who it is.  Alarica is still seated, smiling up to Breanne and holding her hand.  It worked once before, it might just work again.

This is it, the time to beat her for being among smart people, and for allowing the children to be among the adults.  Panic is starting to take hold as it manifests itself with shaking and the empty eyes that Alarica wishes would disappear, and be replaced with warm and happy eyes that would sparkle as bright as the northern star.  The shaking can not be seen, only felt, which Alarica does, and grows concerned.

“Breanne, please be comfortable.  I will return momentarily,” Alarica says, hoping to soothe and quiet the shaking.  She rushes to her laboratory to make tea, and bring back the robe Breanne liked so much.  Returning as quickly as she can, she finds Breanne beside the entryway, standing as she had done when they first met each other.  “Breanne, this is tea.  I put honey in the tea for a little sweetness.  I also have the robe that you liked.  Both of these items will help to keep you warm.”

Alarica has never lied to me before, so why would she start now?  Breanne tells herself.  It can be a lie.  Instead of honey, it is a drug, and the robe is meant to tie me up.  It has to be a lie.  Breanne pleads as she sees the robe coming around her.

Alarica hears the pleas and they shattered her heart.  A simple gesture of love and care is sounding like torture.  Alarica continues to place the robe over Breanne very slowly and very carefully, being sure to be very gentle, and starts singing the lullaby that she sang for Breanne the day before.  Slowly, Breanne starts to relax just enough to allow Alarica to wrap the robe around her.  Alarica does not tighten the robe, however, leaving it to hang loosely around Breanne.  Alarica then picks up the cup of tea from the table.  Properly trained healers will always test the temperature of the tea before giving it to a patient.  This is done by holding the cup fully inside of their hands.  The tea will be comfortable to drink, she thinks.  To further test the tea, she dips the tip of her pinkie slightly inside the liquid, to be sure of the proper temperature.  Alarica takes this opportunity to be sure the tea would not drip from her finger.  “The tea is just right, I think.  Properly trained healers are able to make their own tea.  The tea is tasted to be sure of the right ingredients, and the temperature is tested to be sure that it is not too hot to drink.  It looks poorly upon the healer to have their patient’s tongue burned,” she informs the young woman.

Breanne sees Alarica put some in her mouth.  Alarica would not drink something that she poisoned or drugged, after all.

“What?  I do not understand.  Drug the tea?  Breanne, I am a healer.  The tea is not drugged.  Please, Breanne, drink the tea.  It is honey that I used.”  Alarica continues to hold the cup at Breanne’s eye level, waiting for her to take it.  One of Breanne’s hands comes up to its usual place, her mouth, while the other hand shakily takes the cup.

Alarica slowly reaches for the offending hand, to hold it within her own, smiling as she does so.  Breanne is still waiting for the beating she is certain is coming when she is reminded about her hand.  The beating never comes.  She slowly lowers her gaze to the cup of tea that is now sitting on the table.  Not sure about the reaction, she slowly moves her hand to pick up the cup, watching for any reaction.  She sees a smile appear on the face that has only ever shown love and concern.  She drinks the tea, watching Alarica over the rim of the cup.  After finishing, she replaces the teacup back on the table beside her.

“How was the tea?  Not too bitter, I hope.”  Seeing Breanne shake her head back and forth was a good sign.  “That is good.  It means the leaves are still young and full of flavor.  Please, Breanne, come and sit on the cushions.  It would really be more comfortable than standing here by the doorway.”  Alarica tugs lightly on Breanne’s fingers, encouraging her to follow.  Breanne moves from the doorway, to walk stiffly to the cushions.  Alarica wonders why, and starts inspecting Breanne to see if there is anything wrong.  Bells go off in Alarica’s head when her hand finds the wet spot on Breanne’s seat.  “Breanne, how would you like to take a bath?  While you are bathing, I will find a dress for you to wear while your clothes are being laundered.”  Seeing embarrassment on Breanne’s face, she wraps her arms around Breanne, calls the girls, and walks behind Breanne to avert anybody’s gaze as they move towards the bathing chambers.

==========

Alarica enters the pool after the girls, holding her arms out, encouraging Breanne to come in.  The hand finds its way again as Breanne steps around to go into the tub.  “Breanne,” Alarica says, tapping Breanne’s offending hand, which the young woman immediately lowers.  She stands there looking around the room.  Alarica starts to make Breanne comfortable before leaving to find a dress, and after seeing that Breanne is comfortable, leaves the bathing room after reminding Breanne that a dress has to be found.  Hearing joy and laughter, Alarica is certain that everything is going to be all right.  Taking a last peek before leaving, she enters the bedchamber and heads towards the wardrobe.

There they were: Odette’s clothes.  By tradition, all that Odette wore or touched was burned. However, Alarica made sure to separate what Odette wore and what she had not.  The clothes and everything else in Odette’s possession that had been touched by her were burned or destroyed.  Odette did not touch these possessions.  Odette and Breanne look very similar, but their nature is so vastly different.  Finding the right dress, she puts the rest away, to be used later.  Alarica leaves for the archives, to see if her queen is, indeed, doing what she is supposed to be doing.  Instead, she finds her asleep on the table.  Alarica pours herself a glass of water, and moving the scrolls away, she pours the glass over Melisandra.  Melisandra wakes up, suddenly screaming, to see her sovereign standing there with her eyebrow raised.  Taking the hint that is presented to her, she continues studying the scrolls.

Alarica re-enters the bathing chambers, to see everyone splashing and laughing.  “My intention is not to interrupt.  However, one of many lessons I learned was all good things must to come to an end.”

“That was probably the easiest lesson you learned.”

Alarica hears the voice, knowing to whom it belongs.  She is delighted to hear her mother’s voice, and be in her presence once again.

“Breanne, Melisent, and Emily, this is my mother, Leonessa,” Alarica says, full of joy.  She looks towards the tub to see the girls excited and happy, but Breanne has returned to that frightened state.  “Mother, would you assist the girls, please, while I attend to Breanne?  Claryvorra will be delighted to be with someone similar to herself, and Emily will fit into her old baby clothes.”  Alarica thanks her mother, hangs the dress on a hook by the door, then walks over to the tub to assist Breanne in exiting the tub. Alarica holds out the towel to wrap it tightly around Breanne as she moves towards her. Breanne looks at Alarica and just waits.

Reading Breanne’s thoughts, Alarica replies, “It will be all right.  She is my mother, who no doubt heard my mother-in-law complaining about how cruel her daughter’s spouse is.  Melisandra is my wife only by marriage.  We do not follow the same customs as Americans in many ways, especially marriage.  Melisandra has been . . . reluctant . . . in her duties, and has been complaining to her mother about the cruelties she is suffering.  You have to understand that Melisandra tells her mother the truth as only Melisandra sees it.  This may or may not be agreeable to everyone.”  As Alarica is talking to Breanne about this, she is dressing her at the same time.  Length is similar to Odette, but could use some alterations here and there, and believes that when Breanne is at proper weight, she will fill the dress very nicely.

“I should tell you something.  I need you to listen to me.  I am Sovereign Cyan Alarica, with Queen Melisandra and her Princess Claryvorra.  We have come to America from Avalon to seek an alliance with the American President.  My grandmother tried to form an alliance many years ago, but failed.  I am here to succeed where she failed.  The dress that you are wearing belonged to my consors, a consors that is no more; she is but a distant memory.  Mother Leonessa was the queen and mate to mother Camilla, who was the former Sovereign Cyan of Avalon.  Mother Camilla has been dead for five years.  She died of an illness for which there is no cure.  Because I am the eldest, I am to hold the throne.  All of which that I told you is true.  Melisent has read only a small portion of our history.  I only ask that you understand,” Alarica finishes, with a pleading undertone directed at Breanne.

 

Part 4

Breanne is stunned, and does not know what to think or believe.  Even if Alarica is lying about all of that, she had proved she could be trusted.  Are you really a king?  Uh oh, I forgot to say sire.  Maybe I should just leave and not be here.

Alarica is relieved, and replies with slight laughter in her voice, “The term is sovereign and it is either my sovereign or your eminence.”  Things turn serious, however, when she asks, “Why do you say you should leave?”

==========

“Now, why would you think that, child?  If you have been invited by my daughter, it means that she trusts you,” Leonessa says, standing in the doorway after finishing with the girls.

==========

Breanne panics, and her hand immediately goes up to her mouth as she backs up, backing up in search, and finding, a clear path to run somewhere, anywhere that would be safe.  Alarica runs after Breanne, though it did not take long for her to catch up.

Leonessa is standing in the doorway, which was the only way out.  Breanne finds a screen, thinking that if she crouches low enough, she will not be seen.  Alarica finds her there, and kneels down beside Breanne, rubbing her back.

Breanne is frightened that the beating she has been expecting has finally come to life.  Instead, Alarica starts singing, and turns around to see her mother crouching down beside her, a confused look on her face.  The singing is working.  Breanne starts to straighten up to see that it is Alarica.  Breanne clutches onto Alarica and starts crying, letting out all of the pain that had built up over the years.  After a few soothing words, Breanne starts to calm down.

“Alarica, what happened?  Was it something I said?  I do not understand,” Leonessa finishes, before Melisent and Emily run into the bathing room.

“Don’t hurt her!  Don’t hurt her!  You’re a doctor.  Doctors don’t hurt people.  Let her go!”  Melisent screams from the doorway at Alarica when she hears her mother screaming.  She runs towards them, launching herself to tackle Alarica, only to be caught by Leonessa.  Melisent, screaming, crying, and kicking, is a handful all on her own.  Emily, who is watching everything that is going on, is crying as well.

The commotion brings Claryvorra’s attention to the bathing chambers.  Her mother is there with Breanne, grandmother with Melisent, so that left her with the baby.  The princess walks into the bathing chamber, taking a hold of Emily, and doing what everybody else is doing: giving a little bit of love.

“Daughter, I think an explanation is in order.  First the mother, then Melisent, and Emily cries as she is watching her family fall apart,” Leonessa tells Alarica as she rocks Melisent back and forth in comfort.

“Mother, I wish I had an explanation.  I do not know enough to be able to give the answer that you require,” Alarica responds softly after noticing that Breanne has fallen asleep in her arms.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to cause such a ruckus,” Melisent states, pushing herself away from Leonessa.  “I’m sorry I yelled.  I heard mama screaming like she always does.  She always screams when grandmother talks to her.  She never leaves any visible bruises.  You only see them if you know where to look.  Mama’s not supposed to talk because she sounds like a little baby.  It’s not mama’s fault she can’t.  Mama tries really hard, but she just can’t.  She probably thought you had the paddle to hit her with, because she tells me to talk to you and she draws you pictures.  She thought that you were going to hurt her.  My mama is always crying,” Melisent finishes, rocking herself back and forth.

Leonessa reaches out her hand, waiting for Melisent to take it. When nothing happens, Leonessa sits in front of Melisent and pulls the eight year old close to her, and they rock together.

Alarica feels two things at that moment: Deep pain because of the beating her friend receives for doing something Breanne has no control over. And anger, which took hold of a protective streak she reserves for only two people: her mother and her daughter. Now it was five, as Breanne, Melisent, and Emily were added to that list. Alarica picks up Breanne and places her on her own sleeping cushions.

Leonessa now has a sleeping child in her arms, so she places Melisent next to her mother then leaves the sleeping chambers after closing the drapes.

Alarica stays behind to think.  I know why Breanne does not see herself as the beautiful woman I know she is.  How could anyone hurt my little one? Her mind is confused, her heart broken, and her soul shattered because someone has taught her to believe she is not worthy of kindness, love, and respect.

Alarica returns to the bathing chamber, seeing that Emily is all right playing with Claryvorra. She searches for her mother, only to find her sitting by the sleeping cushions that Breanne and Melisent are now resting on. Alarica sits in front of her mother, to tell her what has been happening so far. They both sit there, watching the girls rest, and believing this is the only time Breanne can truly be free.

==========

Breanne starts to wake up, momentarily confused.  Suddenly remembering where she is and what has happened, she turns around to see that the two women are there.

Leonessa looks at Breanne with a smile, “Hello, child.  I am mother.  Did you rest well?”  Leonessa raises her hand in an attempt to brush back Breanne’s hair from her face, but the young woman misunderstands, and covers herself with her arms.  She then hears that voice.

“Breanne, it is all right.  Mother will not hurt you.  She left to find a washcloth to clean your face.  Lower your arms, Breanne…there is nothing to fear.”

There, that voice always says it will be all right.  Lowering her arms slowly into her lap, she realizes that there is something she has to do.  She looks around, trying to find it.  Where is it, it has to be somewhere.  Breanne starts wiggling on the sleeping cushions to buy her some time.  Alarica notices the motions and hurriedly shows her where to go.  Finally, feeling better and proud she made it before there was another accident, she goes to the sink to wash her hands.

“There you are.  Here is a cloth for you to clean your face.”  Leonessa holds out the cloth for Breanne to take.  Breanne stands there, looking at the cloth, wondering what the true purpose for the cloth is.  Looking at Alarica and Leonessa, Breanne realizes that they have similar eyes, trusting eyes.  Breanne takes the cloth and wipes her face, feeling how it good it felt.  Breanne rinses the cloth in the sink, wrings the excess water, and lays it in the sink to dry.

Slowly, Breanne raises her hand toward Alarica, to feel, to see her face.  Alarica smiles with pride, watching as Breanne raises her hand, and meets her half way, grasping the hand gently to place it on her face.  For the first time since they met, Alarica sees a smile, a genuine smile.  Holding Breanne’s hand to her face, she softly says, “You see, everything is fine.”

Turning slightly toward Leonessa, she wants to, but . . . Alarica gives her slight nod, so Breanne raises her hand, and Leonessa grasps it gently, holding it.

“Breanne, how would you like to stay and visit with an old lady for a little while?”  Leonessa asks softly.

“Do not believe her.  She says she is old because she wears the colors.  However, she still has the skills of a fine warrior,” Alarica states with laughter.

“I say the truth,” Leonessa replies, looking at Alarica.

Suddenly remembering what Alarica told her before everything happened, Breanne collapses on the floor in an attempt to bow.  Alarica bends down to comfort Breanne.  “Breanne, I appreciate your attempt to bow before us, but that is only required in the public arena.  I will let you know before what is expected.”

Breanne raises her head to see Alarica sitting there, smiling at her.  Feeling embarrassed, Breanne’s face is turning red.  Red faced and embarrassed, she lowers her head in an attempt to hide. Alarica approaches Breanne and embraces her, rubbing her back.

Breanne looks at Alarica and smiles.  I better wake Melisent.  Tomorrow is a school day, I’m sorry.  She waits nervously for something to happen.  As a nervous gesture, the offending hand goes up again.

Alarica looks at Breanne with an expectant look, Breanne looking back at her.  Remembering, Breanne lowers her hand, to clasp its partner in front of her, earning a smile from Alarica.  “Now, we can wake up Melisent and have an early meal before seeing you home.  I think it would please mother if she could get to know you a little better.”

But tomorrow is school, we have to leave now, it will be dark soon, Breanne replies, her head halfway between up and down, still not completely sure what will happen.  She watches Alarica and Leonessa looking at each other, as if reading each other’s minds.

“Breanne will not speak to me.  We communicate by me voicing my thoughts and me reading hers,” Alarica informs her mother, answering the quizzical look on her face.

“Breanne, stay here and have a meal with us.  My daughter will provide transportation to see you safely home,” Leonessa addresses Breanne, hoping to straighten Breanne’s stance.  Breanne remains hunched over, with her head halfway down.

“Breanne, always stand tall and strong,” Alarica says, attempting to straighten Breanne’s stance. Breanne turns to Alarica with a questioning look.  “Breanne, always keep in mind that it is not your height but your conviction in yourself that you are proving.”  Breanne, understanding what Alarica is telling her, straightens herself out of the hunched-over position.  Head and back straight with hands clasped in front of her, Breanne is now the perfect picture of poise.

“Very good, Breanne,” Alarica praises, noticing that with every praise, Breanne grows more sure of herself.  And that meant Breanne would have confidence to talk to her and be less fearful here, in this house, the house of Avalon.

===========

“Melisent is waking up.  I hope she had a restful sleep.  I will go see to her.  Please pardon me,” Leonessa excuses herself, watching Melisent getting up from the cushions.  She sits beside Melisent, quietly talking to her.  Melisent is visibly relaxed, and a little embarrassed, as evidenced by the red face.

Alarica, my sovereign, could you please show me where my clothes are now so we can go home?  Breanne asks, still poised, still scared.

Alarica wants Breanne to be comfortable, if only with her here in the manor.  If comfort for Breanne means only relaying her concerns and feeling through thought, then Alarica is happy.

“Breanne, I would like you to stay for a meal.  I will make sure that your clothes are done by tomorrow morning.  I. . .”  Alarica starts, but Ernestine appears at the door, not following social etiquette by ignoring the closed drapes.

Ernestine watches an immediate transformation that she does not understand.  “Meus imperium, you must review these papers before tomorrow.  It will be too late to review after the last meal, and must be done now.  I will show these vagrants out and see to it that they will never be able to enter again.”

“Ernestine, you will do no such thing, and I will review the papers.  Leave them in my study.  Before that, bow and apologize,” Alarica states in the tone that Ernestine has come to recognize as meaning business.

Ernestine, however, has always felt it is her duty to think for the sovereign.  “Vestra magnificentia, meus darling imperium, what would you be doing with these vagrants?  Let me take care of them for you, dear meus darling imperium,” Ernestine finishes, hoping that with a little sugar mixed in, it will allow her to be seen as the councilor she has always been known as.

Alarica is furious by this time.  Ernestine was questioning her judgment among other members of her family. She will pay for this.  “By the order of the throne, you are to bow in humiliation.”  Alarica feels something on her lower back, and looking beside her, realizes that Breanne has moved beside her and is rubbing her back with a little smile on her face.

“But vestra magnificentia . . .” Ernestine begins, watching the sovereign move towards her.

Alarica grabs the papers away from Ernestine and watches her expectantly.  “Now!” is the last thing the sovereign says, before Ernestine falls on the floor, her body outstretched, on her stomach.  “You will stay there until further orders.  This would also be an appropriate time to remember your English lessons.”  Alarica steps outside the room, and holds her hand out with a smile growing on her face as Breanne approaches.

Leonessa smiles with pride for her daughter.  Holding Melisent’s hand, both walk out of the room, following Alarica and Breanne.

==========

They walk to the dining area, a bright room with large floor-to-ceiling windows, sitting cushions around a low table, live plants and flowers around the room, and long draperies to close the entry way.  Alarica speaks to a servant, to make sure her request was followed.  Claryvorra enters the room with Emily, who is smiling and laughing, something that she only does when she was truly happy.  Can it be that Breanne has found a home?  That she has found someone that can love her?

Breanne has been studying the flowers, looking at the shape of the petals and smelling their fragrance.  Alarica comes and stands beside her, enjoying watching Breanne appreciate the flowers.  Breanne notices Alarica, and smiles a true smile at her.  Alarica begins to tell Breanne about the flowers, their origin, their use, everything she knows, and Breanne absorbs everything Alarica tells her.

Leonessa, like any mother, takes this opportunity to tell a story or two about her daughter, and Alarica wishes for a hole to appear now, below everyone, to make everyone disappear.  Breanne quietly stands beside her, rubbing Alarica’s back.  At least someone loves me.

Elmira walks into the room, finding everyone smiling and laughing, especially Alarica, since an opportunity has presented itself just in time.  This time, it is Elmira’s turn to be embarrassed.  The food arrives and everyone enjoys themselves, as the laughter and good cheer continue.

Breanne whispers to Alarica to find somewhere to talk.  Both enter the study, and Alarica closes the draperies.  Alarica…thank you for the food.  Can I have my clothes now, please?  Breanne thinks, with just a little more courage this time.  Alarica notices the change and smiles, knowing that maybe, with a little more time, she can erase all the bad memories.

“Breanne, the clothes you had been wearing are now being laundered.  Come back tomorrow and I will give them to you.  If I am not here, Elmira will be here to assist you with anything that you need.  Melisandra is studying the Scrolls of Protocol.  The Scrolls of Protocol were written as a guide to help train and provide knowledge for those of the aristocracy.  Melisandra has grown complacent in her duties as Her Majesty of the Throne of Sovereign Cyan Alarica.  That is why she was not present at the table.  Otherwise, everyone is to be present at mealtime.  There are no excuses, unless I state otherwise.  Those situations do not come up very often.  I will see to it that you have transportation home,” Alarica tells Breanne while caressing her face.

Breanne is absorbing the words, and the touch, feeling good for the first time since she can remember.  She would be purring if she could.  Placing her hand on top of Alarica’s, Breanne thinks.  Alarica, how long will Ernestine have to be like that?

Alarica bows her head, knowing Breanne has a point.  After a while, the purpose is lost, and is not as effective as it should be.  Looking up at Breanne, she replies, “I will release Ernestine later, but not without consequence.  She did something wrong, and she must pay the outcome of such an action.  I will go into detail later, but right now I must go see that you have a safe journey home.”  Breanne releases Alarica’s hand, the one she has been holding.  In its place, she holds out her arms in a gesture that anyone would understand.  Alarica nods slightly then envelops Breanne, to give her the love that she sorely needed.  Releasing each other, Alarica leaves to find transportation, and Breanne leaves to find her girls.

With cloak in arms and keys in her hand, Alarica gathers Breanne and her girls to leave for home.  If a sovereign wants something done properly, she does it herself.  That is why Alarica drove.  On the way, Alarica explains that she might not be home, but Breanne and the girls are always welcome, and can come by any time.

==========

Alarica does not appreciate the American Government because she has to deal with the imbeciles who call themselves leaders. It is not the debating; it is the so-called typical male behavior that is the problem, along with their feeble minds. She can not carry any weapons on her person, not that she needs any, all she needed was a well-placed pinch here and there . . . and, Oops, I’m sorry, but he’s dead. We were only talking and he just died. Maybe he had a bad heart. The sad thing about that is…everyone would believe it. Idiots…

==========

The next day, Breanne returns to the manor for her clothes.  Alarica is not there however, so she leaves to return home.  Melisent comes home, feeling miserable because her teacher said that she made everything up.  She tried to explain to the teacher that all that he had to do was call the number on the card that she provided.  The teacher refused, stating, “If I don’t know about it, it doesn’t exist.

Melisent calls the number Claryvorra gave to her, forgetting to pick up another business card.

“Hello,” Claryvorra answers.

“Hello, who is this?”  Melisent asks, not recognizing the voice, as it does not sound immediately familiar.

“This is Claryvorra, Melisent.  How are you?”  Claryvorra answers, trying to reassure Melisent.

“Claryvorra?  Hi, I’m sorry, but I forgot to pick up another card before I left the other day.  If you give me the number to talk to Miss Elmira, I can call her instead,” Melisent responds.

“Melisent, the number I gave is my cell phone.  I would be happy to provide you the number to speak with Elmira.  However, if there is any way I may help you, I would be happy to.”

Melisent realizes then that they have something in common.  Both liked to talk, and that they did. They talked until it was time for supper, Melisent feeling better after talking, feeling that it had not just been her mother who had found a friend.

=========

The following day is another day with nothing of interest to do or speak of, until her mother showed up.  Breanne’s mother wants to talk to her about her excursions, having heard about them.  Breanne does the best she can.  She remembers how she was treated and how she felt when she was with Alarica.  She now knows that she does not have to suffer, but suffer she does.

Melisent leaves her room when her grandmother leaves, to see to her mother.  It does not look good.  Melisent can not wake up her mother, and blood is coming from her mouth, nose, and ears, blood is everywhere.  Her grandmother did not yell.  However, she used the voice that meant she was beyond angry.  Angry with what, though, Melisent does not know.  All she does know is that she has to remain calm to help her mother.  Thinking of a solution, she picks up the phone and dials a familiar number.

“Claryvorra, I don’t know what else to do.  My grandmother came over tonight to talk to mama.  When she left, I went to put Emily back to sleep and then I came to check on mama, and there’s blood everywhere, and she’s not waking up,” Melisent says, with urgency in her voice.

Melisent does not realize that during the conversation, she was put on speakerphone so Leonessa can hear what is going on.  Her grandmother urges her to find out where they lived and that something will be done.  Claryvorra does as she is told, then gives the information to her grandmother.  Not long after hanging up, Melisent hears a knock on the door.  Safely answering the door, she is happy to see that it is Leonessa with three other women who, for security reasons, had followed.  Melisent leaves to pack a few things for herself, Emily, and her mother.  Breanne is carried to the car by a guard, while Leonessa sees to it that the children are taken care of.

==========

Alarica has a lunch mvting with a state senator, Senator Rio Trafford Chamberlaine.  The meeting is to discuss the possibility and plans of gaining popularity within the senate, working her way up to the top.  That was the plan.  However, just as any other plans, they, too, fall through.  Alarica is not aware of the senator’s preferences, or the true meaning of the meeting.  In between debates of philosophy and integrity, Alarica finds herself thinking of the multiple uses for the silverware on the table.  “Senator Chamberlaine, I am here to discuss with you the possibility of being seen by the President of the United States, to discuss the plans on how to proceed to do so.  I have been meeting with the members of the government ever since my arrival.  I was relieved to have someone finally listen to me.  As desperate as I am for someone to recognize me, I am not that desperate, and I would very much appreciate it if you kept your hands off my private person.  Please enjoy your day.”

==========

Alarica arrives home frustrated over the events.  Imbeciles, every one of them… She thinks that maybe it is not a good idea to seek an alliance with America.  Yet, she could not give up.  She must succeed where her grandmother failed.  Visions of relaxation came to her mind and she realized that what she needed were a bath and a goblet of Vinum.  Thinking those thoughts and following through with them, however, was something entirely different.  Suddenly, the doors burst open, with Breanne and the children being carried in.

Leonessa explains what has transpired, and Alarica takes Breanne from the guard, carrying Breanne to her laboratory to see to her injuries.  Leonessa, in the meantime, takes the children to the sleeping chamber, where Claryvorra has arranged the sleeping cushions so the three of them can sleep together.  Claryvorra assists her grandmother by making sure everything is all right and everyone is comfortable.

Leonessa and Alarica work side by side to assess and treat Breanne’s injuries.  After finishing their healing duties, Leonessa leaves the laboratory to sleep, leaving Alarica to care for Breanne.  Alarica does not leave Breanne alone for very long, at any time.

Breanne sleeps for three days before waking up confused and in pain.  Everything hurt.  She is not sure if there is a place on her body that does not have any pain.  What brings solace to this misery is that voice, the voice of comfort that she has come to love.  Attempting to open her eyes to see the face, she realizes she cannot.  Reaching up to her eyes, she feels a bandage wrapped around them, which she tries to remove, only for her hand to be held in place by another.

“Breanne, you will be all right.  You were brought here three days ago after being beaten by your mother.  She has caused much damage to your body.  The bandage around your eyes is to protect them from further injury.  You are not well enough to eat solid food, so instead, it will be soft food.  The children are well and have not been injured, though they are worried about you.  Mother has been spending time with Emily.  Do not worry, you and the children will be taken care of, I assure you,” Alarica informs her patient, while rubbing Breanne’s hand in comfort.

Will I see again?  Breanne is able to ask before the headache returns.

“Yes, Breanne, you will be able to see again.  The bandages need to stay for two more days before I can remove them,” Alarica answers, her voice straining in an attempt to keep calm.

Breanne nods her head before falling back asleep.

==========

The next day, when Breanne wakes up, she slowly remembers, remembers the words, the hitting, and the confusion.  She does not know what she did wrong.

Alarica cares for Breanne during her recovery and is able to see into Breanne’s memories.  Breanne’s defenses are weak, and in an effort to assist Breanne with her recovery, Alarica has to know what happened, but also knows she has to confess to Breanne what she has done.  Alarica has a responsibility to care for her family, and that family now includes Breanne and the girls.  She can not do that without knowing everything.  Now that she does know, she understands less than she did before.  Knowing and understanding are two different concepts.  That is a lesson that is hard to learn.

The bandages are removed and Breanne is getting stronger.  Alarica’s healing knowledge is rewarded as she continues to see Breanne heal.  That is the easy part.  The hard part is admitting what she has been doing without Breanne’s knowledge and approval.  It is a betrayal of trust.  Good intentions or not, it is still a betrayal.  Her training with the Sages comes back full force every night as she attempts sleep.  But sleep will not come until she admits the truth.

Alarica enters her laboratory with an attempt at a smile on her face.

Breanne sees this and wonders what is wrong.  Alarica said everything is fine.  What is wrong then?

Hesitating at the cabinet that holds the herbs, thinking how the subject should be approached, she stands there.  She told Leonessa what had happened, and though disappointed, Leonessa understood and said to tell the truth.

Alarica, what’s wrong, your shoulders are slumping?  Breanne asks in an attempt to get Alarica’s attention.

“Breanne, I . . . I have something I need to tell you,” Alarica states, still standing at the cabinet, looking to the doors for answers.  She shakes her head then slowly turns around to face Breanne.  “Breanne, as you know, as sovereign there are certain things that I am capable of doing.  To shorten the story, it was decided that it was a necessity to better serve her people to protect them from harm, as the enemy was not always forthcoming with the necessary answers.  One of those things is being able to see into someone’s memories.  Reading thoughts and seeing into someone’s memories are different things, as one is immediate, and the other requires more probing.”  Alarica stops and rubs her hands on her dress and realizes it is useless.  The armlets that adorn her arms have leather palms.  “Breanne . . . I . . . I looked into your memories to see for myself what had happened.  So many questions needed to be answered.  It is my responsibility to care for my family.  You and the girls are a part of my family, not by blood, but by heart.  I cannot explain it any more than that.  I find myself confused over what I have seen.  There are still many questions.  This does not happen on Avalon.  If a mother is seen as an unfit mother, the child is immediately adopted into another family of the same village without question.  They need only provide the necessary documents to support this decision.  Please understand, Breanne, please . . . I beg you to understand,” Alarica finishes, lowering herself to the floor, bowing in humiliation, waiting for Breanne to answer.

Breanne does not know what to think.  She only knows what to say.  Alarica, what did you see?  Alarica, you can get up now.  I remember you had Ernestine do that.  I don’t think this is the same thing.  Alarica..?  My sovereign..?  Breanne says, before attempting to sit upright because of Alarica’s unresponsiveness.  Successful in her attempt to sit up, now all she has to attempt is to walk over.  Feeling proud of her accomplishment, she sits down in front of Alarica, and taps her head gently.  Alarica slowly raises her head, not sure what to expect.  Alarica is a strong and confident woman, and sovereign.  Except when something bothered Breanne, and she was the cause.

Tears lingering in her eyes, she says, “Yes, Breanne?”

Why don’t you sit up?  That way we can talk without you hurting your neck, Breanne responds, hoping to lighten the mood just a little.

Alarica nods and sits in front of Breanne.  “Am I forgiven?  Etiquette dictates that I need your permission first.  I did not ask for permission.  I did not think it was necessary, as I was only looking to find out what happened.  The more I saw, though, the more curious I became,” she explains, looking at the floor.

It’s okay.  I don’t think you would hurt me.  I just want to know what you saw.  Breanne starts to rub Alarica’s hands, hoping to sooth the worry that has enveloped the woman who has become her friend.

Looking into Breanne’s eyes, she begins.  “What I saw was very confusing.  There were . . . I am not sure how to explain this . . . there were attempts to help you with your speech, but I am not sure they were attempts made with love.  The hitting, the words, everything, was just puzzling.  I do not believe they saw the frightened child they had created.  Your mother blaming you for your father’s death, stating that he died because of you.  Nothing made sense.”  Alarica finishes angrily, mentally sorting through the images she had seen.

Breanne sits there, thinking how to explain what happened.  She knows that Alarica will understand her, but she needs to be sure that Alarica and Leonessa both understand who she is.  That meant asking Melisent to speak for her.  Melisent knew everything.  Where is Melisent?

“She is outside with mother.  Mother has been spending time with the children, teaching them how to defend themselves.  Why do you ask?”  Now Alarica is confused.  Did she go too far?  Now that Breanne is well, does she want to leave and never return?

Their too young though.  Breanne is suddenly concerned that her girls will be needlessly hurt.

“Do not worry, they are well.  Mother is a good teacher.  If you ask her what she has been teaching them, she will tell you.”  Alarica is desperate, now trying to find something to keep Breanne with her.

I have to find Melisent so she can speak for me.  I don’t speak well, so she has to speak for me.  She can explain to you what happened.  She knows things.  Please let Melisent speak for me, my sovereign. Breanne attempts to bow, as a pleading gesture.

Alarica still does not understand, but does as Breanne requests.  She leads Breanne to a sleeping cushion to rest as she sends someone to get Melisent.

==========

Melisent comes into the laboratory with a big smile on her face, excited about what happened, as evidenced by the manner in which an update is delivered.  Alarica starts laughing, while Breanne covers her mouth in an attempt to hold the laughter in.  Leonessa joins them in the laboratory as well.  Breanne calls Melisent to her, and quietly asks her daughter to tell everyone everything, from the beginning. Melisent nods her head and sits in the middle of the floor.

“Mother has asked me to tell you the events that have been happening so far.  Mama is an orphan.  She doesn’t know who her real parents are.  The woman that we are supposed to call mother or grandmother, adopted mama because she thought it would be fashionable to adopt.  I say she’s crazy.  I watched Mommy Dearest once, and they looked alike.  Grandmother couldn’t, and still can’t, accept that mama is handicapped.  She thinks that mama isn’t trying hard enough and is only doing it to annoy her.  It’s not her fault she has trouble reading, it’s not her fault she doesn’t always understand, and it’s not her fault that she is the way she is.  We only know that she’s our mama.  I don’t know who our father is, and I don’t care.  I’ve never met him or seen him, and he never bothered to come find us, so as far as I’m concerned, it’s only us girls, which is fine by me, because I only need my mama and my sister.  Mama told me once, that grandmother paired the two together.  He drugged her one night and mama woke up the next day not knowing what happened, or where she was.  She found out later she was pregnant.  She never saw him after that.  The other day grandmother got angry because mama left the house without telling or asking for permission first, which doesn’t make sense, because we don’t live together.  Grandmother said that mama was conspiring with known terrorists, and will one day ruin the United States of America because they will be spreading their impure thoughts, beliefs, and customs to everyone.  She forced mama to tell her who they were, but she didn’t.  Grandmother only left because she was going to be late for the ladies get-together,” Melisent finishes, still sitting there, watching puddles form on the floor from the tears that were shed as s  told everyone her story. She needs to finish though.  Taking a deep breath, she continues.  “I know everything because I’m always looking to see what’s going on, and making sure that mama’s okay.”  Melisent turns around and leaps into her mother’s lap, to cry on her shoulder.

Breanne rocks Melisent back and forth, thanking her for a job well done.  Leonessa gets up after everything is said, to make tea for Breanne.  Alarica leaves, to tell Elmira that she is not to be disturbed.  Breanne misunderstands however, and thinks everyone left because they are disgusted to be in her company.  She stands up, gathers her girls, and goes in search of her belongings.  Leonessa returns with the tea, looking for Breanne, not realizing she and the girls are in the wardrobe gathering their belongings to go home.

“Breanne, I have tea here for you.  My daughter said that you like this tea.”  Leonessa places the tea on a table in the sleeping chamber.  Hearing noises coming from the wardrobe, she realizes where everyone has disappeared.  “Breanne, it is too early for you to leave.  You started recovering from your injuries only two days ago.  When you have fully recovered, we will discuss things further.”  Leonessa peeks her head outside of the wardrobe and calls to her daughter when she hears Alarica call for everyone.

“There you are.  Let us take a bath.  It will help you to feel better,” Alarica says, urging Breanne to follow her.

Breanne hesitates, confused.  Do they still want to be with me?  They aren’t disgusted with my presence?  She looks between Alarica and Leonessa.  Those eyes again, those same trusting eyes.

Alarica assures Breanne that she enjoys Breanne’s company.  Breanne nods her head, and remembering the way to the bathing chambers, walks ahead of everyone.  She stops at the bench and realizes that she was being followed.  Alarica, Leonessa, and Melisent are taking off their clothes to get into the bath.

Breanne stays in the corner of the pool by herself.  Playing with the water and washing herself clean, Breanne escapes into her imagination.  It is her own world, a world that she created. It is the only place where she feels comfortable.  She sees pictures being created in her head, the colors, shapes, lines, everything.  All she needs is her pad and her paints.  Her hands know what to do.  They always do.  There is something else, something wanting to come in.  She is startled when she feels a hand placed her shoulder.  Looking up, she sees it is Leonessa.  Breanne smiles, and Leonessa smiles back, satisfied that everything is all right.

Leonessa joins Alarica.  “Alarica, what is she doing?  She seems lost.  Are her thoughts still open to you?  I ask not only from curiosity, but because I am concerned.  She has carried a heavy burden.”

“She is fine mother.  I think she will answer you if you ask her,” Alarica replies, smiling at her mother.

Leonessa rejoins Breanne.  “Breanne, what are you doing?  Are you all right, child?”  No response from Breanne.  Leonessa scoops a handful of water and pours it on Breanne’s shoulder, startling her.  “There you are.  What are you doing?  Are you all right?”  Leonessa asks Breanne once again, smiling and waiting for an answer.

The water is pretty.  See, it makes waves.  Breanne demonstrates to Leonessa, knowing that she will not understand.  No one did.  They all thought she was just crazy.

Leonessa turns around to look at her daughter, wondering what Breanne is thinking.  Alarica replies, “She said the water is pretty because it makes waves.”

Leonessa’s comments surprise her, though.  “You see the lines that the water makes, wondering where they will end.  A philosophical discussion, I think.  Come and join us on the other side.  You can scrub my back.  Or would you rather stay here and play with the water?”  Leonessa asks Breanne, slightly tilting her head, wondering how Breanne will answer her question.

Breanne lowers her head and continues to play with the water.  It is not that she is ignoring Leonessa; it is that Breanne is confused.  Leonessa senses this, and walks to the other side of the pool, gathers the necessary supplies, and comes back to be with Breanne.  Leonessa reassures Alarica that everything is fine. Breanne is simply doing what she can to help herself understand these new events.

After getting Breanne’s attention, Leonessa holds up the necessary supplies in front of Breanne, asking the silent question.  Breanne hesitates, looking at Leonessa.  Suddenly, a picture comes to life, a picture that only she will see for now.  But with time, Alarica, too, will see the picture.  Smiling, she takes the supplies from Leonessa, who in turn smiles and turns around, showing Breanne her back.

Once Breanne finishes, Leonessa makes the familiar gesture to turn around.  Breanne shows her back, so Leonessa can scrub her back.  That is when Leonessa sees the scars; the scars that Melisent said no one knew were there, unless you knew where to look, because the scars were on Breanne’s buttocks.  Now, Leonessa is furious and make the decision to adopt Breanne.  It is not unusual on Avalon to adopt someone, of any age, without a home or family to call their own.  She will discuss this with her daughter later.  Now, she has a child to take care of.

==========

After bathing is completed and everyone dressed, Alarica brings Breanne into her study, to speak with her about an issue that became clearer to her, now that she knows the facts about Breanne’s life.  “Breanne, I need to speak to you about something I have been thinking about since I first met you.  I am in need of a consors, a companion.  I have had visions of what the consors looks like, and at one time, I thought I had found her.  I was wrong.  She betrayed me.  It was because of that betrayal that I promised myself no one would be permitted to be my consors, until I met you.  You are the one to be my consors.  To explain the position, you would need to understand that a sovereign marries because it is what is done.  A match is made between two people that the mothers feel would be a good fit.  Sometimes the matches work, and sometimes they do not.  That is where the consors comes in.  The consors holds the sovereign’s heart and soul.  It is often the consors that the sovereign relies upon to reveal things only the consors would understand.  They hold a trusted position in the aristocracy.  It is the sovereign’s duty to train the consors, as they would be relied upon to perform certain functions.  I will train you, and the Scrolls of Protocol will tell you what you need to know.  If you do not understand something, you need only ask, and I will explain to you what you need to know.  There is information that needs to be provided, though I know most, I do not know all, so you will assist me in providing the information.  Protocol states that I will need your mother’s permission for you to take the position of consors.  It needs to be your natural born mother.  You do not have one.  The proper substitute would be either a close companion that you trust implicitly, or your natural born family, which in your case are both Melisent and Emily.  I will explain everything to Melisent, and ask for agreement.  Emily is very young, much too young to understand,” Alarica explains, while holding Breanne’s hand.  They are seated on cushions, as Breanne is still recovering from her injuries.

Breanne is stunned.  She feels like Cinderella, or that she is in a deep sleep, dreaming of everything that has been happening.  Breanne does not know what to say.  The only thing that comes to mind is to be sure she understands that Alarica wants her.  Breanne points to herself, asking silently if Alarica is sure.  Alarica nods her head in answer then takes Breanne to the sleeping chamber to rest.

==========

Upon returning to her study, she finds Leonessa waiting for her.  “Alarica, I need your permission to adopt Breanne into our fold.  She has been beaten both physically and emotionally. She needs a family’s reassurance, a love that only a family can provide.  Will you grant me permission to adopt Breanne?”  Leonessa is desperate and wants Alarica to understand that Breanne needs a family as much as Leonessa needs a family.  Breanne would have that.

Alarica listens to her mother’s desperate words.  She tells her mother of her intentions of granting Breanne the office of consors. The scrolls will take too long to pass through the council if both a request of adoption and a request for office of consors are submitted.  The time will be less if only a request for office of consors is submitted.  Breanne will be granted immediate citizenship when Sovereign Cyan Alarica and her Royal Majesty Melisandra, with Lady Leonessa as a witness, finalize the scrolls.

Leonessa is happy at the turn of events. She is not granted permission, but when the scrolls are finalized and Breanne becomes a citizen, she knows that Breanne will have the peace and the love she needs.  Leonessa will also have her wish, because as consors, Breanne will have residence within the palace, and that means Leonessa will be able to visit often.

 

Part 5

Alarica sits behind her desk, preparing the necessary documents that she needs to provide the council in order for her to have her wish granted.  Empty scrolls, as well as the Scrolls of Protocol, are scattered upon her desk, looking as though a tiny tornado has come upon and caused the mess.  There is much to do before asking Breanne to do her share of the work.

==========

Leonessa walks into the sleeping chamber to check on Breanne, who is lying awake on the sleeping cushion staring at the ceiling, thinking about all Alarica has told her.  Alarica has confidence in me, but I don’t know if I can.  I just paint pictures.  It was a lot to take in.  She sees Leonessa come into the room and wants to ask her a question.  How do I ask a question without talking?  She wouldn’t understand my pictures, and she can’t read my thoughts like Alarica can.  Alarica is busy, and Mel and Em are with the princess.  She closes her eyes, concentrating on the words, and gathers all her courage to ask, “Queen Mader, couldtch I athk you thometing?”  Then waits for something to happen, but nothing does.

Leonessa, instead, tilts her head slightly, concentrating on what Breanne has attempted to ask.  She makes a motion to wait, and will return.  She comes back with a pad and pencil, giving them to Breanne.  Leonessa sees the lost expression “I thought this would help you.  Alarica tells me you draw pictures.  If that is how you wish to communicate with me, I will not mind.  It is just mother, and of course you may ask me something, actually, you can ask me anything.  What is wrong?”

Breanne concentrates as she writes her question to Leonessa.  Well, Alarica told me about being consors, and I just want to know how I tell her I can’t take it.

“First, tell me why you do not wish to be her consors?”  Leonessa asks, believing she already knows the answer.

Breanne concentrates on what she wants to write and how to express her concerns.  She considers herself stupid, someone without any intelligence.  She cannot speak correctly.  She can not leave the girls behind; after all, they are her children.  She is uncoordinated.  The list continues.  In saying all that, she regards herself as unfit of such an honor to be the sovereign’s consors.  When Breanne finishes writing, she folds the paper and places it on Leonessa’s lap.

Leonessa unfolds the paper and read the letter.  Leonessa immediately excuses herself to talk to Alarica about this new development.

==========

“Ernestine, do you need another lesson . . .” Alarica raises her head, and sees that it is her mother not Ernestine.  It gives Alarica concern, because her mother has always a stickler for proper behavior.  Rising from the desk and walking towards Leonessa, she apologizes.  “I am sorry, Mother, I thought you were Ernestine.  What is the matter?”  She embraces her mother, not noticing the paper her mother is holding.

“I believe you need to read this.  It brings to light some concerns that need to be addressed,” Leonessa replies, handing over the paper to Alarica.

Alarica unfolds the paper and starts reading.  It does not take long before a look of confusion and disgust appear on her face.  Leaving the study, she immediately enters the sleeping chamber, expecting to find Breanne on the sleeping cushions.  She is not there, however, she was gone.  Alarica searches the manor, and orders the guards to search for Breanne.  The girls are gone as well.

Elmira had errands to do around town, and does not know where they are.  No one has any answers.

Minime uni, where are you?

She grabs a cloak and the car keys so she can search around town herself, to find her missing family.  Suddenly, the front door opens, and there stand Breanne and the girls, carrying various bags and boxes.  Alarica is confused over what has happened.  She is angry that Breanne did not tell her where she was going, but she is relieved that her family has returned.  Alarica is not sure which feeling was stronger.

“Panis, qua have vos been? Quis est totus illius? Quare did vos non dico mihi vos erant iens alicubi ?” Breanne, where have you been?  What is all of that?  Why did you not tell me you were going somewhere?  Alarica asks fiercely, not realizing she is not speaking English.

It scares Breanne.  It is the tone.  It is the expression.  It is her mother, angry with her for doing something wrong.  She does not understand what she is saying.  She does not understand why Alarica is looking at her like that.  Breanne thought she could trust Alarica.  What did I do wrong?  …she asks, crouching on the floor into a tight ball and covering her head, waiting for the beating.

Alarica does not understand what is happening.  Surely, she understands English.  Why is she not answering?  Why is she taking a frightened position on the floor?  She asks herself all these questions, but has no answers.

Leonessa leads the girls outside, while Elmira observes the events unfolding before her.  She feels that maybe her sister needs an explanation of the events.  After she explains the events, Alarica understands.  She had not been speaking English, so it was impossible for Breanne to answer.  The angry expression on her face scared Breanne, reminding her of her mother.  Everything makes sense now.

Alarica removes the cloak she is wearing, and gives both the cloak and the car keys to Elmira to put away.  Alarica will be busy making up for her mistakes.  Sitting on the floor in front of Breanne, not touching her, she starts singing the song that always brings Breanne’s attention.  It has worked in the past, it will work again. Alarica only needs time, and believes she has plenty of that.

Breanne realizes the beating she is waiting for is not going to happen, and relaxing, she starts hearing the song, the song that always comforts her.  It was the melody that she listens to, as she does not understand the words.  She lifts her head slightly, to look to the side of her, and seeing no one there.  She looks to the other side, only to see the wall.  She looks in front of her, and sees Alarica there, singing.  Alarica is the one singing her song.  Using that as motivation, she straightens into the position that Alarica has taught her, her head up, back straight, and hands clasped in front of her.

Alarica sees this as a good sign.  A sign that means everything will be all right.  She stands up and steps in front of Breanne, smiling, then tugs Breanne’s finger slightly, as a silent message to follow.

==========

Both enter the study, and Alarica closes the draperies for privacy.  Retrieving two goblets and placing them on the center table, she urges Breanne to sit on the cushions.  While holding Breanne’s hands, she begins.  “Breanne, I am very sorry for my behavior.  I was concerned for your safety and well-being.  My emotions guided my words, not my thoughts.  My intention is not to frighten you, but to show you love, care, and respect.  Do you forgive me?”  Alarica asks, with tears on the brink of being shed.  Breanne nods her head.  Alarica has passed the first hurdle, now on to the next…the issues that were brought to her attention.  “Mother showed me the letter that you wrote regarding your concerns of your appointment.  The issue of intelligence is not only seen in scores in the studies, it is also seen in knowing how to use the information around you, and knowing how to use the information that you do have.  You are an intelligent lady.  I say that because it is reflected in the children.  They are a reflection of you in beauty, intelligence, and integrity.  The issue of speech is not an issue, because there are many methods of communication.  I will teach you the warrior signs.  Though they are not used, they are still taught to everyone.  The girls will come with us.  I will not leave them here for many reasons.  I will not separate mother and child unless warranted.  The issue of coordination is not a factor, because since mother will be your teacher, you will do well.  You will not be expected to learn how to handle a weapon, but you will be expected to learn basic defense skills.  The other issues that you have concerns about are not relevant in this matter.  Everything will come with time and patience.  I have plenty of both if guided towards someone I believe is in need of both.”  She pushes a goblet in Breanne’s direction.  “This is nectar.  It comes from a fruit that can only be found in the frigid northern part of Avalon.  This fruit grows high on the mountaintops of the northern territories.  The bushes bear the fruit between late winter and early spring.  The fruit is not found anywhere else on Avalon.  That is why the fruit is very special, and is also one of my favorites.  Please, try it, you will enjoy it, I believe.”

Alarica and Breanne pick up their goblets.  Breanne looks at the color, smells the fragrance of the nectar then tastes a bit.  Alarica is right.  It is good.  She finishes the rest in one gulp.  Alarica laughs silently as she watches Breanne enjoy her drink.

“Is everything all right now?  May I come in?”  Leonessa asks from the other side of the drapery.  Alarica stands to open the drapery, letting mother enter the study.  Breanne takes this as her cue to leave.  She has something special to do anyway.  Turning around to smile at both Leonessa and Alarica, she leaves the study to start her special project.  It will be her way of saying thank you.

“Daughter, now that things have settled down a bit I can tell you the reason why I am here.  I am always delighted in seeing my daughters.  I love the both of you.  I came here because your mother-in-law received word that the beast that calls herself sovereign harmed her precious and fragile daughter.  I assured her that I would see to it that everything is all right.  I will report to her my findings upon my return,” Leonessa finishes, having used a bored tone all the way through after having gone through the same thing herself.

“Mother, please tell my dear and loving mother-in-law that her precious and fragile daughter is well.  While she was not harmed in any manner, she was forced, however, to pay the consequences of being lax in her duties as Her Royal Majesty to the Sovereign Cyan Alarica of Avalon.  I am sure that Melisandra provided her version of the truth, which I will not deny.  What I will deny, however, is the manner in which that truth was delivered, without my presence or approval, as stated in the Scrolls of Protocol,” Alarica closes, feeling satisfied that her mother-in-law will receive the message.  Of course, Alarica knows that her in-laws will not accept that answer, and will be forced to see for themselves.  So be it.

Leonessa smiles with pride, knowing what her daughter has in mind.  She would have done the same thing.  They talk a while longer, urging Elmira to join them.  After the talk, Alarica returns her attention back to the scrolls, Elmira back to her desk, and mother to see what sort of trouble the children are up to.

==========

“Melisent, what are you doing crouched below the curtain?  You announce your presence and ask for permission to enter,” Leonessa says, a bit confused why Melisent would be on the floor as she was.

Melisent is surprised to hear the voice and immediately jumps up and turns around.  “Just call me Mel, and I’m here because I just wanted to be sure that mama is all right,” she replies.

“I will call you Melisent because that is your given name.  Why not just ask your mother if she is well?”

“All right…  And mama is painting.  She won’t hear me if she’s painting.”

“The proper answer would be yes ma’am.  Your mother is an artist?  Alarica had mentioned to me that Breanne drew pictures.”

“Yeah, she sold a bunch of her paintings a while ago.  She was thrilled that her babies found a home.  They’re not real babies she just calls them that because they are her pride and joy.”

“Yeah does not exist in this household.  It is ‘yes or no’ with a complete answer.  Do you think I would be able to see her pictures?”

“Sure, come on, I’ll show you something.  Remember I told you she doesn’t always understand things.  Well, she got used to not asking any questions.  So she works them out in here to save for herself.  It’s like her diary,” Melisent tells Leonessa as they walk into the sleeping chamber.  Reaching under the bed, Melisent pulls out a sketchbook, takes a brief look inside to be sure it is the right book, and gives it to Leonessa.  “She doesn’t care if you look at it, as long as you tell her.  I’m gonna go and play with Em.”  Melisent was one-step away from leaving the room.

“Melisent, please state that last sentence in the correct manner in which it is to be presented,” Leonessa instructs in a motherly tone.

“Yeah, but I’m just gonna go play with Em,” Melisent turns around, looking straight into Leonessa’s eyes.

“Correctly, Melisent,” Leonessa insists.

“You’re not my mother, and you can’t tell me what to do,” Melisent says in a calm voice as if in challenge.

“That is right, she is not your mother, however, it does not matter, she is the adult, and you must treat them all with respect,” Alarica states from behind Melisent having overheard the conversation from the study.  There is pride in Melisent’s voice.  While that is a good thing, she feels that Melisent needs to stop and realize the situation.

“Yes, ma’am, whatever you, say ma’am.  May I be excused, ma’am?”  Melisent replies, growing irritated with the conversation, giving a mock salute.

Breanne, having come out of the room to look in another one the boxes that she has brought with her hears a part of the conversation and does not like the way her daughter is behaving.  What has Mel done now?  Leave it to Mel to get in trouble.  Breanne speaks quietly to Melisent before leaving her to find the necessary item.

“But, Mama..!”  Melisent responds, stomping her foot.

Breanne turns right around and looks at Melisent, delivering a silent message.  Melisent understands and hears the message loud and clear then stands there taking a couple of deep breaths before doing what she has been told to do.

“I am sorry for talking back to you.  May I play with Emily now?”  Melisent correctly enunciates, looking straight at Leonessa.

“I accept your apology.  There are rules that must be followed.  Eventually, both you and Emily will learn them all.  It is best you learn them now, instead of later, when it will be more difficult.  You are your mother’s first born; therefore, you have certain responsibilities that you must abide by.  One of which is that of a roll model for Emily.  She looks to you to see what she is to do or not to do.  Do you understand what I have told you?”  Leonessa feels it is necessary to start now with Melisent, working slowly but diligently in training her to be able to behave in the palace.

“I understand, Miss Leonessa.  I am sorry.  May I be excused now?”

“Just grandmother, and yes, you may be excused.  Thank you for showing the picture book to me.”  Leonessa smiles as she replies holding up the sketchbook.

Leonessa opens the book to see the pictures.  The sketches are of a family of black panthers, with a little cat and her kittens in the bunch.  The pictures explain themselves.  They are pictures of what happened from the time they met until just a moment ago, page after page of pictures of this family of panthers and this cat telling a picture story.  Alarica has been looking at the sketchbook as well, and they both realize that Breanne does, indeed, have a gift.  The reason she is not able to understand the world around her, is that she looks at the world through the eyes of an artist.  Understanding that was the key.

Leonessa discusses the necessity of showing the book to the prior consors with Alarica.  During training, Breanne would spend time with her, learning things that are not taught by the scrolls.  Alarica is furious with her mother for suggesting such a thing, knowing very well how the prior consors will view the sketchbook.

Alarica had asked her once to judge Princess Claryvorra’s picture.  The reply was not what she had expected, as she had viewed it as a bunch of scribbles.  Leonessa was embarrassed by the event, but because they were best friends, Leonessa only said the consors had had too much to drink and did not know what she was saying.  There were many members of the palace that were disappointed in Lady Leonessa.  Alarica could not find the words to convey her thoughts, and ignored her mother until she arrived in America.  Leonessa feared it would end her relationship with her daughter.  When she arrived, she was happy to receive a warm greeting.

All else aside, there is only one thing left to do.  “I am sorry, Sovereign Cyan Alarica, for questioning your judgment.  Please forgive an old lady,” Leonessa pleads, bowing fully.

“You are forgiven, Lady Leonessa, and this subject will not be brought up again.  Might I remind you that the Scrolls of Protocol state that the sovereign will train her consors as she sees fit?”  Alarica responds in a quiet voice, wanting this conversation to end.

“Thank you for reminding me, my sovereign, and . . . thank you,” Leonessa answers, still bowed and with tears in her eyes.  She cannot blame Alarica for being angry, because Leonessa knows she is wrong.  Leonessa straightens and fully looks at the front cover of the book she was holding.  Not able to look into her daughter’s eyes, knowing what she will see, she presents the book to Alarica, who takes it from her mother.  “Just be sure to tell Breanne that we viewed her diary, and to say thank you,” she adds then turns to leave the room.

Alarica places the book by Breanne’s bedside before leaving.

==========

Elmira hears the arguing and knows the best thing to do is to stay neutral and not say anything, even though she has her own ideas.

Claryvorra sees her grandmother walking outside in a slumped posture, not remembering her grandmother ever looking like that.  She decides that maybe the best action is to include her grandmother in a game to raise her spirits, so she grabs Melisent and Emily and runs outside to meet her grandmother.

Leonessa can never deny the children anything, and thinks that the best thing will be to forget the events, even for just a little while, and play a game with her girls.

==========

Alarica needs to calm herself before going back to the scrolls to prepare them for submittal to the council.  That means spending a little time with Breanne.  The question is though, where is she?  She then sees her leave the room, but does not pay any attention to where she is going.  Walking out of the room and looking around, she hopes that maybe she will see something that does not fit.  There it is…an empty room next to the laboratory.  Alarica notices the closed drapery, and smiles, knowing there is where Breanne is, and walks over to the room.  “Breanne, may I come in, please?  I would like to talk to you some more, if you would.”

Oh, Alarica is here, but she’s early.  Breanne opens the curtain, looking straight ahead, and right into Alarica’s chest.  Oops, I need to remember to look up.  Breanne giggles a little then looks up.  The smile disappears when she sees Alarica’s face.  Uh oh, did that Ernestine do something?  Not knowing what else to do, she embraces Alarica with all her might, and starts rocking back and forth, rubbing Alarica’s back.

Alarica’s troubles just melt right there and then, as she rocks back and forth with Breanne.  They let go of each other after a while, with Alarica feeling better than she had before, along with renewed strength.  She made the right decision all right, not that she had any doubt to begin with.

Well, now that she feels a little better… how about a little painting?  Breanne grasps Alarica’s hands and sits her down on a cushion on the floor.  Then picking up a pad and a paint set, she sets them in front of Alarica.  Alarica looks at the paint and the paper, then at Breanne with a raised eyebrow.  Breanne gazes back at Alarica, smiling.  Just paint a picture and let yourself be free.  Alarica shakes her head, but picks up the brush to start painting.

“Your eminence, I must speak with you,” Melisandra yells from the hall.

Alarica chooses to ignore Melisandra, at least until she is done painting.  She has a picture to finish, after all.  Whatever crisis has struck Melisandra can wait until later.  At least, that is what she thought.

“My sovereign, what are you doing hunched over on the floor.  What is this imbecile . . . this barbarian having you do?”  Melisandra enters the room, surprised to see Alarica sitting on the floor, painting a picture, even.  Sovereigns do not paint pictures.  Do they?

Alarica continues to paint, ignoring her queen, and wondering just how much her queen does remember about protocol, after spending seven entire days in the library.  Apparently she does not remember much.  Alarica would like to confine Queen Melisandra to the library, to learn the scrolls in their entirety.  However, if her queen has not learned anything by now, it will be her queen’s doing, not Alarica’s the lack of trying.

Melisandra continues to scream at her sovereign, waiting for a reply to her questions, and growing angrier the longer she is ignored.

Alarica stands to face her queen.  There is that feeling on her lower back again, having missed it when it was not there.  “Melisandra, right now you are to concentrate on the upcoming Harvest Festival and Celebration.  You are to prepare a guest list as well as a menu for me to view before preparing anything.  Leave now to do what you were told to do,” Alarica states then sits back down on the floor to finish her picture.

Breanne resumes painting as well.  Melisandra is left in the middle of the room, ignored.  “Are you not going to answer me?  I am your queen, and I demand an answer!”  She will tell her mother about this.  No one does that to Queen Melisandra.  Mother will see to it.

Alarica finishes her picture and presents it to Breanne.  Breanne takes the picture and smiles.  You see, you can paint.  I’ll just put it up here.  She places it on an easel, placing a pushpin through it in a place that the hole will be hard to see.  Breanne then finds a pen and gives it to Alarica.  You have to sign your name.  Alarica signs her name on the bottom of her creation.  Feeling better and able to think again, she is ready to do what she wanted to do when she found Breanne.

“Breanne, Melisent gave us your diary for us to see.  I now understand how you think, how you process the information that is presented to you.  You see the world around you through artists’ eyes.  You see color and strokes, not logic and reason.  That is why you are who you are.  I will train you, do not worry.  Mother will be there to train you so you are able to defend yourself.  I have to go back to the study and finish preparing the scrolls.”  Alarica embraces Breanne before leaving, heading back to the study.

I have to finish this picture.  It needs to be perfect.

==========

First, a short note to her mother-in-law, then finish her part of the scrolls.  This will be the last time these documents have to be prepared, so she does not mind the labor.  She left the drapery open when she entered the study, and sees Leonessa standing at the entry when she returns from playing with the girls outside, with the intention to see her daughter.

“Mother, please come in.  I have a note here for you to present to my lovely mother-in-law, if you would please.  Please be prepared to hear my mother-in-law complain that the beast was cruel to her precious and fragile daughter.  I had Melisandra fulfill her duties, after all.”  Alarica says as she embraces her mother, leaving a peck on her cheek.

“I will be sure to present this to her,” holding up the note “and I appreciate the warning.  Do I need to prepare to come back as well, or do you think everything will stay in one piece?”  Leonessa asks, with laughter in her voice.

“Whatever do you mean, Mother?  I will not hurt anything or anyone,” silently adding much to the end, smiling and batting her eyes.  Leonessa starts laughing, with Alarica soon following.  Letting her know of the current events, she goes back to work on the scrolls.  She will be dreaming of these scrolls by time’s end.

==========

Later, it is time to prepare for supper, so Alarica leaves the office to ensure Breanne is aware of the time.  She announces her presence, and asks for permission to enter.  Breanne does not answer.

The strokes must be even, and the color must be just right.  Yes, this is it.  I can feel them coming to life.

Alarica leaves after attempting to get Breanne’s attention three more times, to find her mother. Alarica explains to her mother the situation, and both walk in the direction of Breanne’s workroom.

Melisent sees both Alarica and Leonessa walking towards the direction of her mama’s workroom and thinks that maybe she should explain her mama.  So she gathers Alarica, Leonessa, and Elmira, to talk to them about her mama.  “I just wanted to tell you about mama.  I saw you heading in the direction of the room, and thought that maybe I should explain something.  You see, mama doesn’t know or hear anything when she’s painting.  There is a special alarm clock that she uses to remind her of the times that she needs to take care of something.  If she didn’t answer, it’s not because she’s ignoring you, it’s because she just didn’t hear you.  Grandmother thinks otherwise.  Anyway, that’s what’s going on.  I’m going to get the girls and make sure they’re ready.”

The three adults left standing in the study look at each other, exchanging the same message: Be sure that the alarm clock is set to the correct time.  An alarm is heard as they exit the study then see Breanne walk out of the room a short time later, closing the drapery behind her.

They need to rest.  It’s time for supper, because my clock told me so.  After giving hugs to everyone, the four women proceed toward the dining room for supper.

Everyone has had a seat assigned to them, according to her rank within the court, and according to the occasion, formal or informal.  Everyone takes her assigned seat, except for Breanne, who adores the flora at every opportunity.  Ernestine enters the room a short time later.  Taking advantage of Breanne’s interest in the flora, Ernestine sits next to her sovereign, as her normal seat would be far away from the sovereign.  Mealtime should have started by now.  However, the queen is late, again.  Melisandra enters the room a short time later, fawning exhaustion from the hard work she was forced to do.  Everyone knew better.

Hearing Melisent’s voice, Breanne turns around to take her seat, noticing, though, that her assigned seat has been taken.  That is her assigned seat.  Alarica told her it was her seat.  Breanne does not like confrontations, and avoids them whenever she can.  So, she sits in an empty seat, far away from the sovereign.

Alarica, however, notices the change in seating.  Under normal circumstances, with everyone seated, the sovereign is supposed to ring the bell, and the food is served.  However, these are not normal circumstances, and having acquired her mother’s strict adherence to the rules, the bell is left untouched.

“Mama Rica, how come you don’t ring the bell?”  Emily is hungry and wants her food now.

“That is because the rules are not being followed.”

“Who broke them?”

“Councilor Ernestine broke the rules by sitting in someone else’s assigned seat.”  Alarica knows of Ernestine’s greed for food, and is aware of Ernestine’s whimper when the dinner bell is not rung.

Emily grows impatient, as her tummy is growling louder and louder.  If the mean lady is not moving by herself then she will help the mean lady move.  Three things happen at that point.  Alarica grabs Emily, Breanne runs to get Emily, and Melisandra leaves the room.

Leonessa has had enough.  She stands and walks towards Ernestine, to whisper something in her ear that causes Ernestine to immediately leave her seat.  Breanne can take her proper seat now.  Leonessa settles Emily down in her seat, while Claryvorra and Melisent leave to get Melisandra.  Now that everyone is properly seated and at the table, the bell can be rung.

==========

Instead of preparing to bed down for the night, they stay at the table, to address the issue of proper seating arrangements.  “We will stay here and address the events prior to supper.  I will call upon all those involved and have them speak their point of view.”

“Queen Melisandra, it is your duty to see to it that everyone is present and properly seated.  You did not follow protocol, why is that?”

“Sire, I thought that your bar. . .  I mean . . . consors would speak for herself and resolve the matter on her own.”  Melisandra wants Breanne and the girls to leave, having seen the affection that is displayed between them.

“When it was not resolved, why did you not say anything?”  Alarica will not give Melisandra the satisfaction of closing the doors on Breanne.

“I had something else to take care of.”  Why is she asking these questions?  Get rid of her so we can enjoy our nights again, with delicious love.

“The only thing that needs to be taken care of is the preparations for the Harvest Celebration.  That can be continued AFTER the meal.  I expect a full report on my desk in two days.”  Alarica is irritated that her queen will not show responsibility.

“Yes, my sovereign.  May I be excused?”  Melisandra has a long report to tell her mother.

“No, you may not be excused.”

“Councilor Ernestine, why did you feel the need to change the seating arrangements without prior approval, as stated in the Scrolls of Protocol?  Your actions caused everyone to wait for the food to be served.  The baby took action because she was hungry enough to cause harm to another adult.  After excusal, you will diagram, in detail, the seating arrangements for both formal and informal occasions.”  Alarica has many sharp implements on the table.  Maybe she can take one and . . . but then Breanne would not be able to enjoy the flora.

“Your eminence, my dear sovereign, I have missed you so.  We used to be such good friends, you and I, and I miss that camaraderie.  I want to be close to you.  You know I have been working on your speech and writing the necessary information that you will need for the upcoming meeting.  I am sure you do not expect me to do such a menial task right away, and instead allow me to assign it to your consors.”  Ernestine will not miss any opportunity she can to work her way to the top.  She is determined to be documented as the council member that was the sovereign’s mind.

Mentally rolling her eyes and gulping her food back down “You will do as ordered,” Alarica says, looking straight into Ernestine’s eyes.

“Breanne, I realize your nature, and I realize you are not fully aware of your role in the court.  It is your duty to see to it that the rules are followed.  Any wrongdoing done by anyone in my court is to be reported back to me immediately.  If it is something that you can take care of yourself, you will be expected to take care of the situation on your own.  Sometimes, confrontation is necessary, Breanne.  It is something that cannot be avoided at all times.  Lady Leonessa will assist you if you need assistance.”  Alarica is hoping that Breanne will think about what happened.  Though she also knows the same thing will not happen again.

“Everyone has their orders, dismissed.”  Alarica closes her eyes and lays her head back.  It is not long before she feels her muscles being manipulated by skillful hands.  When the massaging stops, Alarica feels like wet leather that has lain there waiting.  Reluctantly, she rises from her position to go back to the study and finish the scrolls, but first, a bath to cleanse away the day.

==========

It is late when Alarica realizes the time.  It is midnight and she needs sleep.  Taking a quick glance towards Breanne’s workroom, she realizes the drapery is still closed and the lights are on.  It is too late for Breanne to be working.  Remembering what Melisent said, she hopes that the alarm clock was set for her to go to bed as well, and the young woman just forgot to turn off the lights.  She walks towards the room expecting to find Breanne asleep.  Instead, there is Breanne, painting.  It is midnight, and Breanne is still painting.  Alarica makes every noise she can think of with the items that in the room.  Breanne does not react.  She flicks the lights on and off, and still nothing happens.  She searches for the clock to set the alarm, hoping that will get Breanne’s attention.  The clock cannot be found.  Breanne’s eyes are fixated on the canvas, and her hands move of their own accord. Breanne’s mind is centered on the painting so much so, that nothing else exists.  Nothing else exists, other than the picture.  Alarica cannot understand.

Alarica has one last hope, and that is to sing the song that always brings Breanne’s attention.  “Minime uni, audio mihi.”  Little one, listen to me.  Alarica sing the song in its entirety, and nothing happens, Breanne is still painting.  Alarica leaves the room, to return with a cushion, pillow, a blanket, and the robe that Breanne enjoys wearing.  After placing the robe around Breanne’s shoulders, Alarica settles herself down for the night, thinking that in the morning, she will have a discussion about this with Breanne.

 

Part 6

It was early morning when an alarm is heard.  Alarica reluctantly rises from her bed, to see that Breanne is waking up as well, smiling.  Good morning, did you sleep well?  Breanne embraces Alarica, with a good morning kiss to follow.  Alarica is growing addicted to these hugs, and finds herself wanting them more so than she remembered before meeting Breanne.  I have something for you.  I’ll show you later.

Both leave to perform their respective duties then, at midmorning, Breanne gathers Alarica, Leonessa, and Elmira to her workroom, to show them the picture she has been working on.  She stands in front the easel.  I don’t have anything, really, so I painted a picture for you to say thank you.  I hope you like it.  After Alarica translates Breanne’s thoughts, Breanne steps around the easel to turn it around.  Breanne had not cover it because the paint was still wet, but the picture is done, and she thinks they will like see what she has been working on.

Leonessa is in the background, with Elmira and Alarica in front of her, and Claryvorra in the foreground.  It is done in such a manner that they look real.  The eyes seem to follow whoever is looking at the portrait.  Everyone in the room is speechless because of the beauty and artistry that the picture represents.  No one knows what to say.  Breanne thinks they hate it and hangs her head, turning the picture around.  Alarica notices this and stops Breanne.  Looking into Alarica’s eyes, she sees love, not hatred, which causes Breanne to smile.

“Breanne, I . . . I am speechless.  My daughters will tell you that does not happen often.  The picture is beautiful.  When the paint is dry, the picture will hang in the gallery.  I have not seen anything that was created this beautifully before.”

All Leonessa can do is stare at the painting.

“Breanne, this picture is truly beyond words.  Ars est porro, tamen vita est brevis.  It means, art is long, but life is short.  This will truly make us immortal.  Thank you, minime uni.  I would like to address the issue of you taking care of yourself, and that involves sleeping.”  Alarica notices one of Breanne’s eyes closing as she is speaking, and decides that the better thing to do is to lead Breanne to the sleeping chamber for a long awaited rest.

==========

Alarica finished preparing the scrolls while Breanne sleeps through the day.  Alarica reluctantly rises from the chair and goes to the sleeping chamber to be sure that Breanne is sleeping well.  Breanne wakes up as Alarica enters the room.  After a bath and a change of clothes, it is now the time to begin teaching Breanne how to be a consors.

Alarica patiently leads Breanne through the long and tedious process of preparing the scrolls.  Now that the necessary information is provided, it will be sealed and delivered, by hand, to the council by Lady Leonessa.  Lady Leonessa will be leaving today to go back to Avalon, and there are a lot of things to do once she returns home.

Leonessa has finished preparing for her departure, and everyone gathers in the main room, not to say farewell, but to say we will meet each other again.  Assuring Breanne that once things are settled, she will return to begin her lessons.  Also, to remind Breanne that she is loved and cared for.  Leonessa leaves for home, back to Avalon.

==========

“Mama Rica, this for you,” Emily holds up a paper to give to Alarica.

“Thank you, Emily.  What is this?”  Alarica starts laughing when she looks at the paper, and the laughter brings the interest of Elmira

“What is it that has the sovereign in such good humor?”  Elmira is given the paper that Alarica has been looking at.  “Let’s see, once upon a time, a little kitty came upon a fat panther that was sleeping.  Then oops, sorry, I did not see the water.  Bye-bye.”  Elmira joins in the laughter as well.

Alarica pins the paper on the bulletin board as a visual reminder to those who pass by what happens when the sovereign’s orders are not followed.

Ernestine is heard in the backroom screaming.  She wants to tell the sovereign what happened, and that this new consors of the sovereign’s should be punished immediately.  As she comes upon the office and sees the picture, she realizes it will do no good to complain, but that did not mean the sovereign would not hear of the complaint.

“Your eminence, my sovereign, I demand a challenge of revenge!  Look at me.  I am wet!”  Ernestine is screaming.

“Councilor Ernestine, it is your right to challenge for revenge, however, I would like to remind you that although another means could be found, it was the most effective.  You had work to do, and I have yet to see the seating arrangement that you were ordered to prepare.  Breanne is doing what she was ordered to do.”

Ernestine stands there in front of Alarica’s desk, saying nothing.  The water turns to steam as Ernestine’s temper grew.  “My dear sovereign, I demand that you discuss this with her at once.  I demand to be treated with respect.”

Alarica asks Elmira to find Breanne and to bring her to the study.

Breanne is brought into the study and stands in front of the desk.  She glances up to the bulletin board that is above the sovereign’s head, and starts giggling.

Alarica wants to get this matter dealt with promptly, her floor is getting wet.  “Breanne, did you pour water over Ernestine’s head.”  Alarica is trying very hard to stop herself from laughing.  Breanne nods her head yes.

“The reason that you poured water over Ernestine’s head . . .” Alarica says, pushing a piece of paper and a pen in Breanne’s direction.  Breanne quickly draws the events that occurred prior to the water.  Alarica looks at the paper and now understands.

“Councilor Ernestine, Consors Breanne used the water as a last resort to awaken you.  You did not respond to the other attempts that were made to awaken you.  While you do have a right to challenge for revenge, I will not give approbation of such an action, as I do not believe it is warranted, dismissed.”  Alarica puts a cloth in Ernestine’s hand and points to the puddle that Ernestine created.  Ernestine will still be able to offer the challenge to Breanne, but if Breanne is injured or killed during the challenge, Ernestine will be punished.  So Ernestine is forced to walk away without satisfaction.

Alarica takes down the picture from the bulletin board and puts it together with the picture Breanne has just created.  She seals them and leaves them to give to Elmira for filing later.  Breanne is still standing in front of the desk.  “Breanne, I am proud of you.  I do not believe in speaking of the forgotten.  However, I want to tell you that you are very much the consors that I have dreamed of for so long.  I thought Odette was the one, and I believe that if you were Odette, she would wait for me to tell her what she should do.  You are truly my consors.  You have grown stronger, and your injuries have healed completely.  I cannot force you to stay, though I suggest that you do stay.  Right now, because your appointment has not been publicly announced, you still have the choice of living outside of the manor.  I worry that your mother will repeat the beating and cause further injuries that you may not be able to recover from.  I would like for you to write an invitation to your mother, inviting her for dinner next week.  I want to meet the woman that feels it is necessary to injure her child.  Someone that was born truly gifted.  EGO sentio ut nos es uni mei minime uni.”  I feel that we are one, my little one.  Alarica embraces Breanne, envisioning love passing from one to another.

As they let each other go, Breanne asks.  What does that mean?  Breanne can comprehend what Alarica says if she works it out herself, but the last sentence puzzles her.

Alarica shakes her head, but Breanne is still standing there, waiting for the explanation.  “It was me thinking out loud, that maybe I have found my soul mate.”

Breanne smiles when Alarica says that.  She does have to leave, there are things that need to be done, Halloween to prepare for; the kids need their costumes, she needs her costume.  Her mother never accepted her writing, so there is only one other to do.  Breanne’s posture stiffens, and she squeezes Alarica’s hands.

Alarica is concerned with this behavior and does not know what to think.  She knows, though, it has to be something important, so she waits.

Now what do I do?  She’s going to hear me talk, and then she, for sure, is going to hate me . . . but she trusts me, and I am her consors.  Breanne asks, tears brimming her eyes.  Alarica, could you help me?  Mother will not read what I write, so I have to ask her.  Please?  It broke Alarica’s heart.

“Of course I will help you. In any way I can.”

Breanne lowers her head, closes her eyes, and hears in her head what she needs to say. Taking a deep breath with her eyes still closed, she begins.  “My . . . friend . . . Alarica . . .wwwoul . . . like . . .ta . . .ta . . .to . . .invi. . .invi . . .in . . .vite . . . you . . .ta . . .ta. . . to . . .sssupper.”  Breanne still has her eyes closed and her breath held as her face grows red.  It is the best she can do.

Alarica is afraid Breanne will pass out from not breathing, so she wets her index finger and makes a line on the lower eyelid of each eye to get Breanne’s attention.  Alarica is proud that Breanne tries so hard to speak properly.  “Breanne, Breanne, open your eyes and breathe.  Breanne, it is Alarica, please open your eyes and breathe for me.  I am afraid you might pass out.”  Breanne opens her eyes and exhales all the air that she was holding.  “That was very nice.  I think, though, that we need to practice.  Watch my mouth and see what I do.  Together, we can do anything.  Remember to always look the person in the eyes.  I know you have to try very hard, and you have to concentrate.  Look into the person’s eyes when speaking to them.  Ready, let us begin.”

Alarica and Breanne work for quite a while before Breanne starts crying.  She just cannot do it.  She cannot speak the way other people can.  Breanne gives up hope, feeling as if she failed.  I knew I couldn’t do it, why did I even bother.  I’m just too stupid!!

Alarica is certain Breanne will be able to do this, all they need is time.  She sees as the look of determination changes to a look of failure, aided by the crying, the slumped shoulders, the bowed head, and the arms crossed in front of Breanne’s chest.

Breanne does not say anything the rest of the day.  She goes into her workroom, closes the draperies, and turns on the lights.  She will not grant anyone entrance.

==========

Alarica explained to Melisent what happened earlier that day.  Melisent understood, because she had experienced it herself before.  Claryvorra, though, thought that maybe Breanne just needed a distraction, something to encourage Breanne to forget about the events.  It worked for her grandmother it has to work for Breanne.  It did not though, because Claryvorra could not understand Breanne when she painted, only Melisent did, and Melisent stayed away from her mother.  Not out of fear, but because of her knowledge that her mother needed time to deal with the failure.

Melisent explained to Claryvorra about her mother.  How her mother does things, and who she is.  Claryvorra had a clearer understanding, and knew that there was only one other person that could help Breanne.  Claryvorra communicated with her grandmother, telling her what had happened, hoping that maybe her grandmother would be able to help.

There were visitors the next day.  Leonessa, mother-in-law, and sister-in-law arrived the next day, and everyone had a different purpose for having journeyed to the manor.  Alarica was away at a meeting, so Elmira was in charge.  Leonessa was in shock to see Ernestine working and not sleeping.  Melisandra, however, took advantage of the sovereign being away, and went shopping.  Elmira made sure the in-laws were comfortable, while Leonessa searched for the girls, who were outside, under the supervision of one of the guards, practicing defensive skills.

Emily sees Leonessa.  “Gamma you back, Gamma!” she shouts, running as fast as she can toward Leonessa.

“Yes, Gamma is back.  I am here, Emily.  I have missed you,” Leonessa responds as she embraces Emily.

Emily smiles and giggles within Leonessa’s arms then they both walk outside, and Emily announces grandmother’s return.  Leonessa tells the girls her purpose, and to be aware that the in-laws are here.  She leaves Claryvorra to explain to Melisent and Emily what to expect from them.

Leonessa sees the workroom.  The curtain is closed and the lights are on.  Elmira told her Breanne had not left the room since yesterday, and would not leave the room for any reason, or grant anyone entrance.  After what Claryvorra had told her the night before, she was a bit concerned.  It was out of that concern that she entered without permission.

 SEQ CHAPTER \h \r 1“Breanne, child, it is mother.  I have returned.  We can start our lessons now.”  There is no reaction from Breanne, she only paints.  Leonessa hears her daughter’s return and leaves Breanne.

This is what I’m good at, painting.  I know I can’t talk.  I shouldn’t have tried.  Now I embarrassed Alarica.  She’ll hate me and throw me out.  I know she will.

==========

Alarica is told of their arrival, and though she is happy for her mother’s arrival, she is not in the mood for the in-laws.  She is worried that if Breanne continues to isolate herself, it will kill her.  She has a responsibility to care for her family, and Breanne is a part of her family.  The problem was, though, how to care for someone that imprisons themselves in their own mind.

==========

Melisandra arrives not long after Alarica has returned, and knows she will suffer the consequences for her disappearance, but thinks that maybe she can have a little fun tonight.  Breanne is unresponsive and in self-isolation, and the children are bedding themselves with her.  So that left the sovereign all alone, to give her the opportunity to have some delicious love, and wake up with the feeling that can only come from good lovemaking.  She has just the right implements to do that with, too.

==========

Leonessa sees her daughter enter the study.  “Alarica, Claryvorra has told me about Breanne and what has happened.  Breanne isolates herself now, she is unresponsive, and in self-isolation.  The children bed down in that room to offer comfort, but I am not certain Breanne is aware of this.  Is there anything, something that I can do?  There must be something to bring Breanne out of the self imposed trance.”  Leonessa is worried about Breanne.  Though Breanne is not her daughter by blood, she is her daughter by heart, and this situation is worrying her.

“I do not know, mother.  I have tried everything I can to bring about the Breanne that I know and love.  She tried so hard to speak a simple sentence correctly, and I was sure, that with a little work and practice, we could accomplish that simple task.  It is not to be.  I do not know what to do.  I feel helpless.  I feel as if I am a lost child looking up to Melisent to find out what it is I am to do.  Her thoughts are only of colors and lines, nothing more,” Alarica finishes, looking out the window in the study.  The meeting at the Senate did not go well, the in-laws are here, and Breanne is in a self-imposed isolation.  Things are not going well.

Leonessa has an idea that might work.  It is the only thing that nobody seems to have tried.  She leaves the study and walks into Breanne’s workroom, thinking that the most likely place for it to be was on Breanne’s person.  Leonessa sees a pocket, reaches inside, and there it is.  Setting the alarm to go off immediately, it creates the desired reaction, startling Breanne out of the trance.

Breanne blinks continuously while looking at Leonessa.  Who are you? Do I know you?  Breanne tilts her head slightly, confused as to what has happened.  What happened?  Leonessa holds out her hand, but Breanne does not take it, only looks at it.  Leonessa knows Breanne is confused, and takes her hand instead.  Breanne does not move however, she just stands there.  Leonessa calls for Alarica and explains to her what has happened.

Alarica does the only thing that she knows will work to bring Breanne’s focus back to her.  She starts to sing.  Alarica can tell that Breanne is coming to her senses.

Breanne gives Alarica a confused look, thinking…  Alarica, are we home?

Now, Alarica is confused, not understanding Breanne’s question.  She takes Breanne’s hand and walks two steps before Breanne collapses.

==========

Breanne wakes up a short time later in the laboratory.  She does not see anybody around, so she rises from the table to go back to the workroom.  My painting needs to be completed.  It is not done.

Leonessa returns to the laboratory with a tea for Breanne, who is gone.  Leonessa knows where she went.

On the way to the workroom, Melisent stops Leonessa to talk to her.  “Grandmother, where are you going?

“I am going to see Breanne, to make sure she is well.  She left without me seeing her first, and I am a little concerned.  Alarica had placed Breanne in the laboratory to rest, but her mother-in-law demanded our sovereign’s attention.  She asked me to see to Breanne’s needs.”

“You didn’t do anything, did you?  You didn’t try to take her away from her painting, right?”  Melisent is growing concerned, not sure of the cause of her mama’s collapse.

“We were concerned for Breanne’s well being.  She has not eaten or slept for at least a day.  I needed to do something to bring about your mother’s attention.  I did not know that would happen.”  Leonessa is now regretting her actions.  It was her actions she felt had caused Breanne’s collapse, though neither Alarica nor Leonessa knew why.

“Grandmother, you have to understand that when mama paints, she doesn’t know or hear or see anything, only the painting.  So when you try to take her away from her painting, she panics, sort of.  She doesn’t know how to do anything else.  She doesn’t have anybody to talk to.  When she paints, she forgets everything.  Some people smoke, overeat, drink, or shop, or whatever.  My mama paints.  When she’s ready she will come out, I promise.  Look, I don’t like it when she does this either, she’s my mama.  There’s grown-up diapers at the house that I use.  I get her to change into those, hand feed her, and leave her to her painting.  If you do anything else, I don’t know if she can take it.  Please be my grandmother?  Please?  Please be my grandmother and understand.”  Melisent is desperate for Leonessa to understand.  She loves her mama and wants her mama to have a family.

Leonessa embraces Melisent, with tears streaming down her cheeks.  The guilt and the explanation compound themselves on her already fragile ego.  She does not feel like a mother right now, only a failure.  Looking into Melisent’s eyes, she says with a shaky voice, “Then, that is what I will do.  I will take care of her.  She is a member of this family, and it is my duty and honor to take care of her.  I will send Elmira to the pharmacy to get these grown-up diapers that you mentioned.  I am trying to understand, Melisent.  I am trying.  And I will always be your grandmother.”  Leonessa embraces Melisent once more then lets her go with a peck on the cheek.

“There is one more thing that I should mention.  I overheard the conversation that mama had with Miss Alarica, and I wrote the invitation.  My grandmother doesn’t know my writing, so she will accept it.  I asked Miss Elmira when would be the best time, and she said it will be next Thursday at six o’clock.  So that’s what I wrote on the invitation.  I also asked Miss Elmira to take care of it for me, because if she found out it was from us then she wouldn’t accept it.  So I asked Miss Elmira and she said she would.  I haven’t heard anything yet,” Melisent informs Leonessa in one breath while looking into her grandmother’s eyes.

Leonessa cannot help but laugh.  “That is fine, Melisent.  I will be here, then, to meet your grandmother for reasons of my own.  Thank you, Melisent.”

Leonessa tells Elmira what is needed and for what reason, and is on her way to the kitchen when she hears a scream.  Recognizing the scream, Leonessa only shakes her head and proceeds to the kitchen to fix a platter for Breanne.  A platter in one hand and a tea in another, she walks into the workroom, to see Breanne painting again.

 “Domino Leonessa, EGO requiro ut vos operor quispiam erga vestra filia.”

“It seems as though my daughter’s mother-in-law is demanding I do something about my daughter.  However, which one, I do not know.  She will have to be a little more specific.  Speak English, and stop yelling.  Open up, Breanne, this is a farmer’s bread rich in texture.  The cheese is from the eastern territory of Avalon, and the meat is a cured meat, similar to the American ham.”

Food, that smells good.  I could use that color here.  Breanne accepts the food and finishes her tea.

Elmira returns with the requested item and hands it over to her mother.  Alarica’s mother-in-law, stands just inside the doorway, watching and waiting for a response.

“Puteus, es vos iens efficio quispiam..?”  The mother-in-law is angry now, as Lady Leonessa is taking care of this woman instead of attending to her needs.

“What do you say, Breanne, should I do something?”

There, that’s it, the picture is almost done.

Leonessa stands there, thinking about the best solution.  “Excuse me, please, it seems as though my attention is needed.”  Leonessa bows to Breanne, walking backwards three steps before turning around.

“I am Lady Leonessa, former queen of Avalon.  You will speak English in this house.  You are now in America.  My daughters know what they can and cannot do.  If you wish for me to speak to someone, you will have to be more specific,” Leonessa states in a calm tone, though her thoughts were anything but.

“My precious and fragile daughter is being ignored, and I demand that you do something about it.  She is being brutalized, and I will not stand for it.”  Is it possible for someone’s ego to grow beyond the confines of a shelter?

“Queen Melisandra has not been brutalized, though she has had to answer for being lax in her duties.  Sovereign Cyan Alarica would not hurt anyone in her court.  If there is nothing else, there is something that I must attend to.”  Leonessa feels satisfied at that moment.

==========

Leonessa entered the laboratory, closing the draperies behind her.  Gathering the necessary items, she met Alarica in the hall.  Leonessa explained everything that had been happening so far.  Though Leonessa protested, Alarica took the items away from her mother to see to Breanne’s needs herself.  Alarica needed a chance to breathe, and this would satisfy that need.  Leonessa left to see to the children, while the mother-in-law stomped her way back to her quarters.

Alarica enters the workroom to attend Breanne.  “Hello, Breanne, mother tells me you have eaten already.  This is an herbal bath, and it will help to keep your skin fresh and supple.  After that we will see about the diapers.”  Alarica does what needs to be done, taking her time as she soaps, lathers, and rinses Breanne of the fragrant soap.

What’s that smell?  …Breanne thinks.

Alarica’s mind is filled with thoughts of what her mother has told her, as well as the events that occurred after the in-laws’ arrival.  “Breanne, I need you.  Things are not going well.  My queen has mentioned the events that have occurred up to this point, from her point of view.  Her version of the truth is far from the truth.  I need a way for everyone to see what has happened so far.”  Alarica finishes bathing Breanne and reaches for the diapers.  She has never seen anything like them before, but is aware of their purpose.  Encouraging Breanne to pull up the diapers, the deed is done.

Oh, what . . . oh, she needs my help, but how . . . how do I help her?  My journal . . . that would help, I hope.  Breanne places her hand on Alarica’s arm to get her attention. She does not say anything, only shows a book to Alarica.

Alarica opens the book and smiles, having found the answer to her current dilemma.  She does not feel it is necessary to justify her actions, however, will do so for her daughter’s sake.  Alarica stands behind Breanne to embrace her and whisper words of love then leaves the room.

==========

Alarica calls everybody’s attention to the front room.  She has a story to tell.  Using the pictures in the book, Alarica tells everybody of the events that have occurred up to that point.  Melisandra is nervous now that her mother is aware of the events as they truly occurred.  Alarica feels satisfaction, finally ending the argument.  It was a senseless argument, but it was something that needed to be dealt with.  The in-laws find the events and the book to be a horrendous display.

“I want to know, immediately, who created this display, this book of scribbles.”

“The person that created the book of pictures is Consors Breanne.  She is a valued member of this court, and will be treated with respect.”

“I do not see why you would choose a vagrant over someone of refined blood.”

“I chose Breanne because she is truly my consors.”  Alarica feels that is explanation enough, at the same refusing to acknowledge her sister-in-law as a possible candidate as her consors.

“My youngest would be a fine consors.  She is well-educated, refined quality, and a very beautiful woman.  I know everyone would agree with me.”

Alarica leaves the family, to encourage Breanne to follow her.  She answered her needs before, maybe it will work again.  Alarica returns, with Breanne following a little while later.  “This is my Consors Breanne.”

The mother-in-law inspects Breanne from head to toe, and Breanne starts to feel nervous.  However, with a wink and smile from Leonessa, she knows everything would be all right.

“You call this your consors, this vagrant your consors?  I will see to it she is removed.”

Melisent is getting angrier the more she listens to this woman, and does everything she knows how in order to stay calm.  Count to ten, and think good thoughts, are becoming a mantra.  She does not realize she is not the only one that is angry.

“You have no right to have MY consors removed.  I am Sovereign Cyan Alarica, and I will not be denied.  I warn you, that if any harm comes to Consors Breanne, I will see to it that your family will be shunned.”  Alarica is very angry and finds it even harder to control herself.  The last words are spoken with a growl in her voice.

A loud gulp and the ticking of the clock are the only things that are heard around the room.

“You cannot mean that!  You would not dare do such a thing!  My daughter is your queen, and therefore your duty to take care of us!”  The mother-in-law is shocked that such a thing would happen.  She does not believe the sovereign would do such a thing.

“Madam, may I remind you that I am the sovereign.”  There is that feeling on her lower back again.  She missed that.  “I will see to all disciplinary measures.  It is my duty.”  They stare at each other for a long while, both challenging each other in a silent duel that neither will back down from.

Melisent has heard enough “You will be nice to my mama.”

“Who are you to speak to me that way, you insolent child?”

“My name is Melisent, and I am the oldest daughter of my mama.”

“No wonder you do not have any manners.  I guess that is to be expected from a vagrant’s child . . .” Melisent launches herself at this point toward the woman that continued to insult her mama.

Breanne reaches out and grabs Melisent before she has a chance to do anything.  A quiet conversation later, Melisent offers an apology, though it is not reciprocated.  Melisent and Emily go to the sleeping chamber, to be away from everyone.

Breanne slightly tugs Alarica’s finger, to get her attention.  Alarica shows Breanne the warrior sign for forgiveness.  The mother-in-law pretends not to know what Breanne is saying.  However, Leonessa is not going to let her daughter be beaten by someone who has no morals, values, or empathy.  She knows it was a mistake to let Camilla talk her into this union.  Leonessa leans over and speaks quietly to the mother-in-law.  Now she had Breanne’s full attention.  Breanne offers forgiveness again, and this time, it is accepted, though not willingly.

Claryvorra tugs on Breanne’s fingers and tries to lead her to the sleeping chamber, knowing what is to come, believing that witnesses are not a good thing.

“I, Sovereign Cyan Alarica of Avalon, do declare, by the power of the throne, Breanne to be my consors.”  Alarica is getting tired of this argument, and voices the declaration in her mother tongue rather than English.

The mother-in-law has no choice but to accept her decision.  Defeated, she rises from her place in the room to go to her quarters and remain there until the last meal is called.

==========

Alarica made the declaration official by using the power of the throne.  Now, the council did not have a choice but to sign, and soon.  Sovereign and council must work together as a union when a decision needed to be made.  That was the first lesson that every sovereign learned.  Alarica was desperate.  She only hoped that she would not be recorded as the one that severed her comrades’ head.

Everyone else rises and goes to their respective stations within the manor.  Alarica stands there, watching everyone leave the room.  Breanne does not leave; she does what only she knows how to do.  She embraces Alarica with all the love she can and rocks back and forth.  She does not understand what is happening, but she sees the eyes of the one that has become her friend.  That is all she needs to understand.  The rest will come later.

Leonessa now knows why her daughter has come to love the little artist.  The unconditional love and support that Breanne offers and gives to Alarica is something that had been missing in her court.  Leonessa joins them, and the three embrace.

After they let go of each other, Breanne tugs on Leonessa’s and Alarica’s fingers.  She has a painting to show them now that she is done.  I hope they like it.  The colors are just right, and I think I captured everyone’s personality perfectly.  That’s what a picture does.  It records the personality of someone, not just their looks.  Well, here goes everything.  Breanne turns the easel around to show them the picture she had been painting.  The canvas is large, the size of one of the picture windows overlooking a garden.  The background is of a glade in the spring.  A tree spans the entire portrait, and on each of its branches are four black panthers lazily lying down with their tails hanging below.  At the very top, there is a black panther with mottled gray fur.  In the next branch, a panther with sky blue eyes, watching for anything.  Just below, there is a smaller version, with brown eyes and a swishing tail, and on the last branch, a cub, watching a squirrel climb the tree.  Each resembling the personality of Alarica, Leonessa, Elmira, and Claryvorra, it appears as though the panthers are real, that one could touch them.  Leonessa and Alarica are stunned as they view the painting.  It is them.

“Panis, quo painting est profecto magnificus…”  Breanne, this painting is truly magnificent.

Leonessa supposes that Alarica does not realize she is not speaking English “Speak English, daughter, so she may understand what you are saying.”

Alarica stand there for a little bit before shaking her head.  “This painting will be hung in the study for all to see.  I have only one request, and that is for you to paint a representation of my queen.”

Breanne steps back and turns around to retrieve another canvas.  I hope this works.  I don’t know what they would look like in their royal gown, so I guessed.  I hope I guessed right.  Carefully putting away the first painting, she replaces it with another, a true portrait of the sovereign, her queen, and the princess, the sovereign and her queen sitting on their throne, and the princess sitting on the dais in-between the sovereign and her queen.  It was a true representation of the royal family.

Alarica can only smile as she views this picture.  She had not realized just how busy her consors has been.  “It appears you have been busy painting, minime uni.  Both are splendid pictures.  This painting will be hung in the public arena, behind the dais, so everyone may see the royal line and what they represent.”

“These pictures are magnificent.  You truly are a gift, Breanne.  I have never before seen anything like this before.”  Leonessa chokes on the last words she is speaking.  Anyone could see the depth and beauty of the portraits that displayed the family.  Leonessa feels proud at that moment.

These pictures mean thank you.  “You . . . are . . . my . . . friend.”  Breanne wants to be sure that she can say the last part of her speech correctly.  Alarica can only smile at that moment, a true smile that reaches her ears and causes her eyes to sparkle with delight.  She feels proud.

“It will be time for the last meal soon.  We must prepare ourselves.  Come, minime uni, let us bathe before the meal.  You will feel better after you bathe.”  Alarica reaches out her hands, waiting for Breanne to take them.  And take them she did, walking side by side to the bathing chamber.

 

Part 7

Breanne is a little reluctant to take off her clothes, knowing that she has diapers underneath.  Alarica assists Breanne, and just as she puts the dress into the basket, Breanne’s face turns red, and she covers the diaper with her hands, squeezing her legs together as tightly as she can.  No, my sovereign, please, I will do it myself.

Alarica gently but firmly removes Breanne’s hands from their position, and rips off the diaper.  She returns moments later with a new pair of undergarments and a new nightdress.  “Breanne, everything is fine.  These are for you when you are done bathing.”

Leonessa follows, with the girls close behind.

Breanne stays in a corner of the bathing pool playing with the water.  Knowing this, Leonessa stays behind Breanne, to be with her daughter.  Alarica and the girls splash and play at one end of the pool while Leonessa and Breanne bathe and play with the water at the other end.  Watching the water ripple always fascinates Breanne, and takes every opportunity she can to satisfy that fascination.

The in-laws follow close behind Melisandra as they enter the bathing chamber.  Alarica nod her head in acknowledgment.  Leonessa greets them as they enter the bathing pool.

Emily watches as Melisandra bows to Lady Leonessa, walks back three steps then turns around.  “Mama Rica, how come she did that?  She bow then walk backwards, how come?”

“The reason that Queen Melisandra did that is to show respect.  It would not be respectful to immediately turn your back on someone.  To do so is both an insult and a show of how one perceives the other,” Alarica explains everything for more than just Emily’s benefit, but also her in-laws, who are both within hearing range.  Emily resumes her splashing as Claryvorra sighs and Melisent resumes her bathing.

“Scrub me!”  The mother-in-law sees Breanne in the corner doing what she always does.  Only Alarica and Leonessa understand Breanne’s love of the water.  “I said scrub me!  You are the servant!”  Breanne does not respond, because she simply does not hear her.

Drip, drip, drip . . . watch the water go.

Alarica needs to see what Breanne will do, therefore only observes.

The mother-in-law grabs Breanne’s hand and places a sponge in it.

Breanne only looks at the sponge before placing it alongside the bathing pool.  What’s that for?  I’ll put that here.

This only further infuriates the mother-in-law, who lunges her fist toward Breanne.  Years of abuse have taught Breanne how to duck and cover, so she ducks beneath the water and reappears close to Alarica, who by now is laughing.  Leonessa leads the mother-in-law, who by now has a broken hand, to the laboratory.  Alarica whispers words of approval to Breanne, who smiles as a result.

=========

Alarica, my sovereign, do I sit in the same place?  Breanne does not want to embarrass Alarica by not being aware of the rules.  All have exited the bath and are getting ready to sit at the table.  It did feel good to be clean again.

“Yes, Breanne, you will sit in the same place.  I suggest to you, though, that you sit immediately upon entering the room.  I know you enjoy the flora, but the guests will not understand.”

“‘Kay, thire . . . are you mad at me for doing whatch I did?”

“So the imbecile does speak after all.  What is that they say, oh yes, a timidus canis crusta magis violenter quam is morsus?  But that is only true if they are able to speak.”  The mother-in-law needs to show everyone that the sovereign has made a bad choice of consors, by displaying her as an uneducated coward.

Breanne does not understand what is going on, does not understand what the woman has said.  She looks at Alarica confused.

“What she said was ‘a timid dog barks more violently than it bites.’”  Alarica, finishing her explanation, looks her mother-in-law in the eyes.  “Madam, I did not realize the educational system on Avalon needs to be improved.  Perhaps I need to do some research as to the educational system.  Although, I should not expect anything more than the intelligence for which my queen displays on a daily basis, but I should be happy that my queen is able to at least read.”  Alarica is not going to allow her mother-in-law to accomplish what she has planned.  Not if she has anything to say about it.

“You apologize immediately to my mother.  You are an animal.  Mother does not think your choice of consors would be suitable for us.”  Melisandra hears the conversation and feels the need to intervene, not realizing she is making the situation worse.

“Queen Melisandra, do you remember anything at all that you read from the Scrolls of Protocol?”  Alarica is angry, and Melisandra is able to determine that by the tone of her voice.

“Yes, my dear sovereign, I do remember.  It is just that mother is only protecting what she feels is necessary.”

“Who has a right to appoint a consors?  Who is the one that has the power to dissolve that appointment?  What is the queen’s role in the appointment of a consors?”

Melisandra has forgotten all that she read in the scrolls, having only concentrated on the duties of the queen and not bothering with the rest of the scrolls.  It would just take too long, and she missed her shopping.

Alarica stands there, waiting for the answer, as a piece of paper is slipped into her hand.  Here you go.  The answers are you, you, and none.  She smiles as she looks at the paper.  “It seems as though someone knows the answer.  Let us see if you do,” she says, rolling the paper to be put away later.

“I . . . do not . . . remember . . . my sovereign.  It has been so long since I have read them.”  Melisandra is nervous now that her mother is witnessing the reality.

“That short of a memory..?  Well then, you will be spending more time in the archives, relearning everything.  I will test you at the end of seven days, and I expect an answer before bedding down.  I also ordered you to see to the preparations of the Harvest Festival and Celebration.  I am assuming you have them completed, since you spent time doing something else other than your duties.  Go get the reports and bring them to me immediately.”

“Yes, my sovereign.  I will do as ordered.”  Melisandra fully bows hoping her mother has a short memory.

Emily is heard crying in the background, and Breanne leaves to see what has happened.

“You do not expect my daughter to remember everything in those dusty old scrolls, do you?  Surely, you would allow her some margin of forgetfulness.”

“Yes, I have expectations of my court, with no margin of error.  You are dismissed.”  Alarica immediately leaves to see what has happened, worrying about the baby.

==========

Breanne runs out of the kitchen with a bag full of ice wrapped in a towel and gently places the ice pack on Emily’s head.  Both are seated on the floor, holding each other in comfort as they rock back and forth.  Leonessa has returned from her session outside with the girls, and both she and Alarica run towards them, seeing them on the floor.

“Breanne, child…what happened to the baby, is she all right?  May I take her to the laboratory to see to her injuries?”  Leonessa holds out her arms, waiting for Emily.  Emily willingly crawls into her gamma’s arms, feeling safe and loved.

“Breanne, what happened?  Do you know what happened?  I must know so I may see that the person responsible for hurting a member of my family is disciplined properly.”  Alarica holds Breanne as she cries in her arms.  After Breanne stops crying, she explains that she did not ask Emily what happened.  She only wanted to help take the pain away.  Alarica understands and leaves for the laboratory.

“Hi, Emily, did you tell grandmother where it hurts?”

Emily nod her head yes as fresh tears roll down her cheeks.  Alarica feels the need to swallow hard to suppress the tears in her eyes.  The baby was hurt in her court.  She was not the one to strike the blow, but it happened in her court.

“Mother, did she tell you what happened?”

“No, she has not.  I think she is a bit shaken up right now.  There is a significant bump on the top of her head.  Her left cheek is bruised, and a binding ring on her right wrist indicates she was roughly pulled and tightly squeezed.  She holds that wrist close to her.  I do not believe the wrist was injured.  However, there is still pain.”  Leonessa does not like it that someone beat her granddaughter.  When I find out who did this, they will receive the same treatment by my hand, whatever the consequences.

Alarica silently agrees.  “Emily honey, what happened?  Will you tell me who did this?”  Alarica reaches for a pad and a pencil.  “Emily, I want you to draw a picture of the person that did this to you.”  Emily nods her head and starts to draw, giving the picture to Alarica when she is done.  Noticing that Leonessa is nearly done with Emily, she waits, holding Emily’s hand.  Emily stays close to Leonessa, instead of leaving to explore, which worried both adult women.  This is not at all like Emily.  Alarica shows the picture to Leonessa, who growls in response.  Leonessa will see to the children while Alarica seeks the one responsible.

==========

Everyone was present at the table, in their proper seats.  It was a very quiet meal.  Emily stayed close to her mama and gamma, not eating anything.  Even her favorite after meal treat was denied.  Leonessa explained to the girls what had happened.  Melisent is angry, wanting to know who had beaten her sister.  Claryvorra had similar thoughts, only with a staff - the long staff.

The meal was finished in silence, and everyone left the table.  Breanne saw to the girls, leaving the others to work out what happened to Emily.  Though Emily’s picture was rough, Alarica had a good idea who it was that had hurt Emily.

Melisandra presented the reports as ordered.  Alarica did not like what she saw, as the reports were incomplete, and made sure Melisandra understood her displeasure in what had been presented.  Melisandra left with the reports in hand and tears in her eyes.

“Dear sister-in-law, what have you been doing lately?  There is a nice mall in the city that the queen frequents.  There is also a movie theater not far from here.  They are playing Harry Potter right now.  Princess Claryvorra enjoys those stories.  She likes the idea of flying on a broomstick, I believe.  There is also a boxing ring a half-turn east of the manor.  Have you been there?”

“I have been busy seeing to my mother’s needs and spending time with my sister.  I would not have time for such things.  I am a busy lady of the court.”  She is nervous that maybe they know what happened.

“A busy lady of the court, very interesting description of yourself, I must say.  Where did you learn that a lady of the court busies herself by beating up other members of the court, especially those that cannot defend themselves?”  Alarica wants to make her sweat a bit before doing onto others what had been done to a member of her family.

“I do not know what you are talking about?  That imbecile told you a story.  I told mother I would be a better consors than she ever could.”  Is it getting hot in here?

“You do not know what I am talking about.  Yet, you blame someone else for lying about something which you have no knowledge of, am I right?”  This is fun.

“I only said that the imbecile told you that I beat up that brat when it didn’t really happen.”

“Elmira, did you hear everything?”  I am really enjoying this.

“I heard every word, my sovereign.  I have just received a note from Emily, that shows who beat her.”  Elmira hands over the paper to Alarica, who takes a look at it, smiling.  It would not be convincing if the note had come from a family member.  Therefore, a member of the guard wrote the note.

Alarica calls for a guard to place both her sister-in-law and mother-in-law under house arrest.  Neither would be able allowed any liberties for a very long while.  Melisandra is upset to hear the news, and protests against the sovereign and her decision.  Due to the seriousness of the crimes, they have to pay the consequences.  The only thing the queen can do is bow her head down in shame.

Alarica calls for Breanne from her study.  Two things need to be accomplished.  The first is to see that Breanne understand all of the events that had happened.  Once that is done then the second task may be accomplished.  And that task is for Breanne to decide how the prisoners should be disciplined due to the nature of the crimes.  Alarica takes as much time as needed for Breanne to understand everything.  She then sends Breanne away, with orders to write, in detail, how Breanne would like the prisoners to be disciplined.  Then she is to bring back the document, and follow through with the judgment.  While discussing the events, she finds out that Lady Leonessa has been tutoring Breanne.

“Lady Leonessa, I must speak with you regarding the training of Breanne.”  Alarica finds Leonessa in Breanne’s workroom, and leads her to the study.

“Yes, your eminence, I am here as requested, why the formality?”  Leonessa is confused and doe not know if she has done something wrong.

Alarica closes the draperies behind her, indicating privacy.  This might be a while.  “As you know, it is the responsibility of the sovereign to see to the training of her consors.  I have been informed that Lady Leonessa has been doing much more than physical training.  She has also been training her sovereign’s consors the responsibilities to be taken at such a position.  While I am proud and flattered that she has taken this responsibility, I must know why this is happening?”

“My sovereign, I not only have two daughters, I have three.  I am proud of each of them.  I realize the responsibilities and roles each is to take.  However, I fear that Breanne will not understand the Scrolls of Protocol.  I fear that she will give up because of lack of understanding and the fear of asking for assistance.  I know the scrolls and the words written within.  It is my duty to not only love, but also understand each of my children.  Breanne is the most complex of all.  There is one thing I do know, though, that is the waters of the bathing pool center her and relax her.  I use that time to teach Breanne the scrolls.  I do not reiterate the scrolls word for word, instead, I retell the scrolls in such a manner that Breanne will understand.  That is what I have been doing.”

Alarica stands up from behind the desk she has been sitting behind, to turn around and stare out the window, thinking.  Turning around to face her mother, she says, “Mother, I thank you for your patience.  This will make her training easier.  I believe that between the both of us, if we work together, she will truly be the most valuable treasure in my kingdom.  I took the time to explain the events that have just occurred, and the responsibility that she is to play.  I wait for her to complete the necessary documents to describe the disciplinary action that I am to take with the prisoners.  I will give the documents to Ernestine to review and give back to me for final signature.  I fear, though, that I will be recorded as the sovereign without family values.  I pray the people will understand.”  Alarica and Leonessa embrace each other, wishing for everything to be over with.

==========

Breanne returns to the study, after describing, in detail, what she would like to do, to make sure this does not happen again.  Beating rarely solves a problem; therefore, a more effective approach is needed.  It would be humiliating for them, and at the same time educational, but Breanne thinks it will at least give them the chance to think about what they had done.

Breanne finds Alarica in her study, peering out the window.  She rubs that nagging spot on Alarica’s back, just as she has many times before.  Alarica enjoys that feeling, especially now, as evidenced by the smile on her face.  There is work to be done however, so reluctantly, she turns around to receive the documents.  She does not look at them though, just passes them to Elmira to give to Ernestine for review and signature.  Two official signatures are needed: one of a high-ranking official, and one from a lower position within the structure, as well as the author’s.  Even though Alarica did not read the document, she is interested in knowing what disciplinary action her minime uni has taken in this matter.

“Sovereign, I demand entrance, this document is atrocious.  The disciplinary action described in this document for the current prisoners will not be viewed as being fair, your eminence.”  Ernestine is surprised to see the document and those involved.  She does not have a high opinion of the sovereign’s choice for consors, therefore, Ernestine feels that no type of action should be taken against them.  They are her majesty’s family, after all.

“Permission granted, please describe to me why the disciplinary action that Consors Breanne describes in that document would not be viewed as being fair.”  Alarica is always ready for an argument.

“The prisoners are her majesty’s family, your eminence.  Surely, you do not expect them to be disciplined for an indiscretion.  I am sure they had good reason for doing what they did.”

“I will hear their reasons when they are presented before the court, Councilor Ernestine.  If that is all, place your signature in the appropriate place.  Alert the guards to prepare the prisoners for presentation.  You are dismissed.”

“Yes, your eminence.”  Ernestine’s ability to speak through clenched teeth is amazing, as is her remarkable capacity to keep her head.  She then leaves to do as she was told.

Alarica finally takes the time to read the document, to find out what her consors has in mind.  Interesting selection of disciplinary actions however, they resembled Breanne very much so.

==========

Alarica calls everyone to the front room.  Her Royal Majesty Melisandra, Sovereign Cyan Alarica, Princess Claryvorra, Consors Breanne, and Lady Leonessa take their respective positions on the floor.  The audience consists of Councilor Ernestine, Melisent, Emily, and Elmira.  The guards are called to present the prisoners to the floor.

The prisoners are unshackled and ordered to take a bow of humiliation before everyone then were to stay in that position until told to do otherwise.  Alarica takes pleasure in seeing them on the floor.  Sometimes, it is good to be the sovereign.

“This session was called to address the mistreatment of my consors, Breanne, and her toddler Emily.  The charges against them are mistreatment of members of the aristocracy and perfidy.  It was my decision, as Sovereign Cyan Alarica of Avalon, to order Consors Breanne to decide on the disciplinary measures to be taken.  She has documented these measures and requests that Her Royal Majesty Melisandra read the document.”

Melisandra reluctantly opens the document.  “On this, the 16th day of October in the year 1996, it has been recorded that Sovereign Cyan Alarica of Avalon appointed consors Breanne records that she, Consors Breanne, had not been shown any respect by the family of Her Royal Majesty Melisandra.  Queen Melisandra’s mother used the phrase ‘a timid dog barks more violently than it bites’ to describe me as I was speaking with the sovereign.  I am not a dog, therefore, how am I able to bark?  Another word included was imbecile, which the dictionary defines as a stupid or silly person; a dolt.  I may be silly at times, but I am not stupid nor am I a dolt.  She further describes me as a vagrant, which the dictionary defines as one who lives on the streets and constitutes a public nuisance.  I do not live on the streets nor do I believe I constitute a public nuisance.  She describes my eldest daughter as an insolent child.  The dictionary defines insolent as presumptuous and insulting in manner or speech; arrogant.  My daughter is young and is still learning proper etiquette.  However, I do not believe my eldest daughter, Melisent, to be an arrogant child.  I have recorded the events since my arrival in a journal for my own use and understanding.  My sovereign had requested assistance in the matter of her mother-in-law, not believing the events as were told to her by her daughter-in-law, Sovereign Cyan Alarica, because Queen Melisandra had relayed to her mother a different set of events.  Upon description of the journal, it was noted that it was described as a book of scribbles.  I am sorry you feel that way.  Nevertheless, I do not scribble, neither do my daughters.

On a separate occasion during the discussion that Sovereign Cyan Alarica and Queen Melisandra were discussing responsibilities, my youngest daughter, Emily, was found with a bump on her head, a bruise on her cheek and a ring on her left wrist.  It was found out later that Queen Melisandra’s sister had beaten Emily as a consequence of being curious about a document that was found in the possession of said person.  It should be noted that Emily is three years old, and curiosity is second nature to her.

I do not excuse Emily for what she did.  I would, however, expect that someone who is much older than Emily be able to think of a different solution than beating my daughter.

It is my decision, as Consors Breanne to Sovereign Cyan Alarica, that the following disciplinary actions be taken.

1) Parenting and anger management classes to be taken by both.  Proof of completion must be presented to the court upon completion.

2) Volunteer at a nursing home and/or children’s home for a period of three months.  Proof of volunteering for either or both must be presented to the court.

3) The guilty party must apologize with sincerity to all those involved in this matter.  Those that must apologize include, but are not limited to, the mother-in-law, sister-in-law, and Queen Melisandra.  Those that are involved include, but are not limited to, Sovereign Cyan Alarica, Consors Breanne, Melisent, Emily, and Lady Leonessa.

4) Consors Breanne will write a letter of apology to her sovereign at a later date.

With United Powers and By Common Consent, "

Sovereign Cyan Alarica"

Councilor Ernestine

Consors Breanne."

“Prisoners, rise and be heard before this court.  What is your view, mother-in-law?”

“My view, sire, as I heard the events, is true.  I will adhere to the decision of my sovereign.”

“What say you, sister-in-law?  What is your view?”

“My view, sire, as I heard the events, is true.  I will adhere to the decision of my sovereign.”

“You both have agreed that you are guilty of the charges as presented before you.  Make note that the entire document was written by my consors.  I would not have been so lenient in the disciplinary measures if I had prepared the documents.  The measures will be carried out immediately after the last meal and upon sunrise on the morrow respectively.  You are both confined to quarters.  The only time you will not be confined is for meal times only.  You will be kept under close guard until completion.”  Alarica signals to the guards to escort them to the dining chamber.  Pride filled her heart as the document, which proved Breanne to be worthy of the appointment, was read.

==========

The meal was eaten in silence.  Everyone at the table kept their head down, except Emily.  I wonder what is for dessert.

“There is a matter that needs to be dealt with immediately.  All those involved, present yourselves and do as you have been ordered.”

The mother-in-law, sister-in-law, and Queen Melisandra rise from the table.  Queen Melisandra bows first.  “I, Her Royal Majesty Queen Melisandra, say to Sovereign Cyan Alarica, Consors Breanne, Melisent, Emily, and Lady Leonessa, I apologize for my lack of judgment, responsibility, and mistreatment for which I am responsible for.  I request that you all forgive me in these matters, as I promise to do better by my court.”  Melisandra fully bows and remains in that position.

“What say you, mother-in-law?”

“I apologize for any harm that I have caused this court.”  She is willing to apologize, but promising something is another matter entirely.

“Apology not accepted by Sovereign Alarica.  What say you, Lady Leonessa?”

“Apology not accepted by Lady Leonessa.  What say you, Melisent?”

“I won’t accept the apology.  What about you, Emily?”

“She not say sorry… ‘Bout you, Mama...?”

“I, Lady Leonessa, speak for Consors Breanne, and she has said to me that she will not accept the apology.”

“What say you, sister-in-law?”

The sister-in-law does not want the same thing to happen to her, so following in her sister’s footsteps, “I, sister-in-law to Sovereign Cyan Alarica, ask that the court accept my apology for any wrong doings that I have caused.  I promise to accept the lessons that this court and the disciplinary measures will teach me to do better in the future.”

“Does the court accept Queen Melisandra’s apology?  Indicate by raise of hand.”  Everyone raises her hand.  “Therefore, Queen Melisandra, you are excused to remember and fulfill your promise.  You will be expected to fulfill your promise to this court.  You do not; you will be denounced from the throne.  Do you understand as this has been explained to you?”

“I thank the court for accepting my apology.  I fully understand my obligation as has been explained to me.”

“Rise, you are dismissed.”  Alarica’s eyes follow the queen’s departure.

“Does the court accept my sister-in-law’s apology?  Indicate by raise of hand.”  Everyone raises her hand.  “Therefore, sister-in-law, you are excused to remember and fulfill your promise.  You will be expected to fulfill your promise.  You will report directly to me to assign proper placement for you in the matters of anger management classes, parenting classes, nursing home, and children’s home.  I, your sovereign, will discipline you if you should fail to fulfill your obligations.  Rise, you are dismissed.”  Alarica’s eyes follow her sister-in-law’s departure, only to fall back to her mother-in-law, who is crouching in an attempt to not be seen.

“Does the court accept my mother-in-law’s apology?  Indicate by raise of hand.”  Nobody raises her hand.  “Therefore, mother-in-law, the court does not accept your apology.  You will have only one other chance to apologize properly.  You do not properly apology, you will be shunned from society.  You will no longer be recognized or remembered. Your property and wealth will be taken and distributed, your name will be erased from the archives, and your children will be remembered as the vagrants you described the children of this court.  You will present your apology on the morrow, before deciding placement of your disciplinary measures.  Keep in mind, if we had not progressed to this point in our society, you would have been thrown in prison.  Rise, you are dismissed.”

 

Part 8

 Alarica and Melisandra left the manor for the guesthouse at the back of the property.  Alarica was in need and the queen had a duty to fulfill.  It would be difficult to accomplish either, or both, in the communal sleeping chamber.  They talked long into the night, with intercourse soon following.  Alarica left the guesthouse early the next morning, feeling nothing other than the satisfaction of a physical need fulfilled.

Melisandra still had the lingering feeling of fingers and tongue sensually touching her wet folds, sending her to the heavens as the orgasms came one after another.  For the queen it was much more than sexual gratification, it was a connection of souls, a connection of love, whereas for the sovereign, it was only an act of physical fulfillment.  Realizing that caused tears to fall down her cheeks unhindered.  She also realized that they would never connect as anything other than sovereign and queen, just like the sovereigns and queens of the past.  Her dreams would never come true.

Alarica walks into the house ready for a bath, needing to wash off the after effects of the session she had had last night with her queen.  Probably the only thing that she does right is not to leave any visible marks.  I have to face the public, and cannot do that if I reek of sex.  She feels the only reason it lasted as long as it did, was Breanne’s face appearing before her eyes.  The slightest sound would cause reality to interrupt the vision . . . If only it could be.  Finally, the session ended, with the sovereign on top of her queen.

Alarica notices her family walking into the bathing chamber, and joins them.  It is the weekend, and the girls are looking forward to going to the town square to do a little shopping, and maybe watch a movie.  All of them have earned it.  Melisent and Claryvorra help each other with their studies, earning good grades in return for their hard work.  And Emily…explores the vast world around her, learning new things each day.

Breanne is keeping her head down, and her shoulders slumped, and the action worries Leonessa and Alarica.  Alarica, as usual, follows the girls, while Leonessa stays with Breanne.  Leonessa thinks it strange that Breanne does not play with the water, since she always does, except for today.

“Breanne, child, is something wrong?”

Breanne looks up, and that is when Leonessa notices the circles and the dark shadows beneath the eyes.  Breanne only shakes her head no, without a verbal answer.  I haven’t slept in days.  I know I shouldn’t be afraid but . . .

Leonessa surmises Breanne slept well during the night, but the circles and the shadows are telling a different story.

Alarica has grown concerned, and moves to the end of the pool where her mother and Breanne are.  “Mother, what is wrong?  This is not like Breanne.  By now she is splashing the water, watching the ripples.  What has happened?”

“I do not know.  She is not speaking, and I do not think she slept last night.”  Alarica and Leonessa agree to switch places.  Leonessa goes with the girls, while Alarica stays with Breanne.

“Breanne, what is wrong?  Will you tell me?”  Alarica makes a move to place her hand on Breanne’s shoulder.  Breanne misinterprets the gesture and moves to protect herself.  She had done the best she could, even using every reference she could find.  She even asked Elmira to proofread the document.  What could have gone wrong?

“Breanne, minime uni, it is all right, it is me Alarica.  Calm down and tell me what is wrong?  You know not to fear me, do you not?”

Breanne does not respond, just stands there motionless, waiting for the beating.  Alarica wants to reassure Breanne, as Breanne has done with her many times before, but she is fearful that Breanne will not understand.  “Breanne, are you scared?  Are you afraid of my in-laws?  Have they threatened you as a result?”

No. Aren’t you mad at me?  …Breanne replies.

“There is no reason for me to be angry with you.  On the contrary, I am very proud of you.  You proved yourself yesterday.  You cast doubt on those who do not believe in you.  You showed the people many things.  A lesson I will always remember: that the disciplinary measures do not need to match the crime, and on the contrary, the measures can be used to teach a lesson instead.  Very well done, my minime uni…”  This time, Alarica is able to place her hand on Breanne’s shoulder.  But Breanne remains stiff, and as she gazes into Alarica’s eyes, she sees what she always does, except this time, fear has clouded the vision.

Breanne relaxed her posture, her breathing deepens, and her arms come down.  Please, don’t hurt me or the girls.  They’re just kids.  Please?

The pleading look in Breanne’s eyes crumbled Alarica’s resolve.  Breanne knows she does not need to fear Alarica, but there will always be flashbacks to a time she never knew, and to always expect the worst.

Taking a deep breath, Alarica declares, “Minime uni, there is nothing to fear.  The girls are fine.  They are doing very well with their studies.  I do not know if you have knowledge of this, but mother was a little angry that Melisent’s teacher gave her such a poor grade on a paper that she truly worked very hard on.  She went to school with Melisent, and spoke to her teacher.  I am not sure what she showed the teacher, but after that, the grade remarkably went up.  Mother will not tell the story in detail, either, only saying that she should not expect anything resembling intelligence from a man.  So you see, my minime uni, everything is fine.”

Breanne continuously blinks her eyes, as if trying to clear them.  Then she truly does see Alarica’s eyes.  They show her what they always did in the past.  The fear is gone and she can truly see again.  She is happy.  I’m sorry I doubted you.  I thought you would be mad at me.  I love you, Alarica.

“I love you as well, Breanne.  Are you going to have any lessons this morning?”

Breanne shakes her head no, but continues to look at Alarica, whose face is getting red.  Alarica finds the sponge and holds it in her hand “Then, could you please scrub my back?  Please . . . pretty please?”  Breanne giggles and starts scrubbing Alarica’s back.  All is right with the world again.

Alarica leaves Breanne as she starts to play with the water.  It is time for a morning chat between mother and daughter anyway.  They leave the girls in one corner, to stand in another corner of the pool.

“Did you have a nice chat last night?”

“Yes, Mother, I did.  I also had a need fulfilled.”

“I assumed that is why you did not return last night.”

“Mother, does Breanne understand the relationship between a sovereign and her consors?”

“Yes she does.  I explained to her that while the sovereign shares her heart and her secrets with her consors, they would never be intimate.  It is up to the queen to satisfy the need for intimacy, not the consors.”

“Thank you, Mother, I was worried.  I think she is better now.  The past will haunt her, I expect, for the rest of her life.  She will always expect the worst.”

“You are welcome, and thank you.  What was wrong?”

“She expected to be beaten, if not her then the children, because of last night’s events.”

“She expected to be beaten?!  Last night I was filled with pride as Melisandra read the document.  Everything was as it should be.  The document was expertly written.  Why would she expect to be beaten?”

“The past, Mother, the past haunts her still.  I cannot imagine what sort of torture she had to endure.  I take that back, yes I can.  As much as I try to forget the images, I cannot.  That beast that calls herself Breanne’s mother tortured her just short of death.”  They stand there looking at each other saying nothing, neither knowing what to say next.

Everyone finishes preparing themselves for the day.  Lady Leonessa, Breanne, and the girls leave to have a little fun in town.  The rest stay behind to attend to business.

==========

Alarica calls for her mother-in-law to be presented to her.  The sister-in-law sits on the floor cushions waiting for the events to unfold.  “Madam, this is your last chance to apologize.  These events are being recorded for later viewing by the rest of those involved.”

“I already apologized, but if you need to hear it again, I will say it again.”

“This was your last chance to present your apology.  From this day forward, you will be shunned from society.  You will no longer be recognized or remembered.  Your property and wealth will be taken and distributed, your name will be erased from the archives, and your children will be remembered as the vagrants you described the children of this court.  You are dismissed.”

Alarica immediately rises from behind her desk.  A dagger immediately makes itself known, and cuts through the clothes that her mother-in-law is wearing.  The mother-in-law is shocked beyond words.  She expected to be forgiven, after all, she is the queen’s mother, and she has done nothing wrong.  The guards escort the prisoner out of the manor.

“Elmira, I need to speak with you immediately.  Get the queen and tell her, her presence is necessary.”  Alarica has that authoritative voice again, which always causes Elmira to stand at attention.

A short time later, Elmira and Melisandra enter the study.

“The proceedings for shunning need to begin immediately.  The queen’s mother failed to apologize properly.  She was given a full explanation of the consequences for failure to present a proper apology.  She has been stripped and is no longer a member of society.  Elmira, contact Ethelmona to let her know I need to speak with her immediately.  Contact the Superintendent of Archives to have mother-in-law’s name erased.  It will be known, from this point forward, that the children do not have a family.  I took pity on them and adopted them into my household.  Contact the chancellor to have her property dealt with.  Her name is to be erased from the deed and sold immediately.  If the property cannot be sold within one month’s time, it will be distributed among the villagers.  Contact the Ratio Imperator to have her wealth dealt with.  Her name is to be erased from all of her holdings.  A complete record is to be prepared and presented to me immediately.  I will decide what to do with her wealth.  Elmira, you are dismissed.”

“Imperium, are you not being cruel for not giving her a second chance?”  Melisandra is in tears. All that she knows is now lost.

“Queen Melisandra, sister-in-law, both of you have been stripped of everything…family, wealth, and identity.  It will be recorded that I took pity on the both of you and adopted you into my household.  I gave your mother a second chance, but she failed to rethink and retell her apology.  Any recognition, any resemblance of assistance from either of you, and you, too, will be erased.  Am I clear?”  Alarica needs to be sure her point is heard loud and clear.

“Yes, my imperium, your thoughts and orders have been made clear.  I understand them.”  Melisandra has nothing else to say.  She is crying now that her family has been torn apart.  She would like to blame Breanne, but realizes that at least there is still a Queen Melisandra.  There would be time for blaming later.

“Yes, my imperium, I hear your orders loud and clear.”  The sister-in-law wants revenge, but not now, not with so many eyes watching.  She will pay for this.

“I suggest to the both of you that you pay attention to me.  If either of you plan or speak of retribution towards Consors Breanne, not only will you be erased from society, your memory will be erased as well.  Queen Melisandra, you are excused.”

Melisandra walks away with her head down and shoulders slumped.  Who could she blame if she can not blame Breanne?  This would not have happened if Breanne had never become a part of this household.  She has to accept her sovereign’s decision, but she does not have to like it.

“Sister-in-law, my dear, dear sister-in-law, did you think you could get away with thinking about retribution? May I remind you that you do not have a mother to run to any longer, and that your older sister will be kept underfoot for as long as I feel it is necessary? You harm my consors, you will be no longer. It will not matter if it will be by another’s hand, you will be the one I look for to accuse. Sit down; we have measures to attend to.” Alarica, sister-in-law, and Elmira plan on how the measures are to be carried out.

==========

Elmira was able to find parenting classes held at the community center three times a week for three hours a day for six weeks.  The anger management classes were scheduled at the local hospital twice a week two hours a day for six weeks.  Breanne stated the nursing home and/or children’s home, but Alarica thought a greater lesson would be learned if her sister-in-law did both.  Elmira signed the sister-in-law up for both.  The nursing home would be done in the mornings.  The children’s home would be done after the completion of both classes.  Alarica assigned a guard to her sister-in-law, the guard being held responsible for the sister-in-law’s actions as well as seeing to it that she attended her schedule on time.  Maybe then, she would rethink her actions before executing them.

Alarica spoke with her prime minister to be sure she understood the measures to be carried out for shunning.  It would be up to Ethelmona to be responsible to see that everything was completed.  Alarica put the recording away in a safe place then set the mother-in-law’s clothes on fire, to turn to ashes.  She heard banging on the door earlier, most likely her mother-in-law wanting entrance back into the manor.  Now it was necessary to alert the guards that her mother-in-law no longer existed, she was now a nuisance that had to be dealt with, and to alert the rest of the family, upon their return, to ignore her.  Alarica would explain the rest.

The girls returned with bags in hand and a bewildered look on their faces.  Alarica brought them all to her study to show them the recordings that were made of the meeting.  All agreed that it was something that had had to be done.  They also understood that the mother-in-law was as good as dead.  They were to ignore her from now on.  She did not exist.

It came time for Leonessa’s departure once again, having to leave to oversee the changes that had been laid out by the sovereign.  They needed to be completed – now.  “Many things must be done in light of everything that has happened up to this point.  I will return in time for dinner with Breanne’s mother.  I am interested in meeting the woman who calls herself mother.  I will make sure that everything has been completed as you have ordered them.”  Leonessa approaches her daughter with open arms, embracing her with mother’s love, the only love she knew how to give.  Now that things are well, she could go home knowing that everything is just as it should be.

“Breanne, I want to tell you that I love you.  I am very proud to call you my daughter.  You are a great artist, consors of the truest nature to my daughter, and a wonderful mother.  I have told you all there is to know in the scrolls.  Now it is Alarica’s turn to train you.  If you do not understand, do not be proud, ask for assistance.  I will return in time for dinner with your mother.  We will see each other again, do not worry.”  Leonessa hopes she turns her head in time before anybody sees the tears. If there is one thing she does not like…that was saying goodbye.  It did not matter if it was forever or for a short time, goodbye was goodbye.

“Well, girls; grandmother is leaving again, though I will return soon.  Melisent, remember your manners.  It is always best to speak properly.  Claryvorra, you are so much like your mother.  I see her in you everyday.  Emily . . .”

“Gamma, why you cry...?”

“Gamma cries because she always has a hard time saying goodbye.”

“Then no goodbye, say see you later.”  Emily giggles as she waves her hand.

Leonessa cannot help but laugh; after all, her granddaughter did have a point.  “All right, then, I will see you later.”

==========

Alarica urges Breanne to stay at the manor, stressing that Breanne and the girls would be safer staying at the manor than if she were to return home.  Breanne agrees, though discusses with Alarica the fact that her house needed to be taken care of.  Alarica assigns Elmira that task, and to make sure that any personal belongings are to be packed carefully and immediately brought to the manor.  Everything else would be donated.  Breanne also confers with Alarica about her life’s work and her responsibilities.  Two things are important to Breanne, and those are her pictures and her girls.  Breanne keeps the room she had adopted as her workroom, which only needed a few items to complete the look.

Breanne, though, is worried that Emily might not have a chance to make friends.  I don’t want Emily to grow up like I did.  I didn’t have anyone to play with.  She needs other kids to play with.  Everybody in the manor is much older, so Breanne wants to enroll Emily in preschool.

Alarica disagrees, because Emily is much too young to attend school and anything that she needs, will be provided for her.  Breanne learns early on that nobody can win an argument against Alarica, except Leonessa, without providing proof of your side of the argument.  She spends a lot of time researching the positive and negative side of children in preschool, focusing on the positive.  Breanne presents the argument to Alarica, who is impressed with the preparation Breanne has done to prove her point.  Alarica does agree with Breanne that there is definitely a positive side to preschool.  However, toddlers on Avalon do not attend school of any kind.  It is up to the village to care for and educate the toddler as needed.  The children do not begin school until six years of age.  Before six years of age, it is felt that the child was not mentally or physically mature enough to attend such an institution.  Therefore, Emily will not attend school, she will instead stay home.  As Alarica is the sovereign and head of household, her word was final.

However, in any law or rule, there is always a loophole.  Breanne reads the declaration carefully, finding something, understanding the document as was presented to her.  She finds that loophole.  The document states:

Emily, youngest child of this court, is not to be enrolled in any school at any time before approval by the sovereign.

It does not mention anything about a daycare facility.  It is nitpicking, and chances are Alarica will be angry, but Breanne is her mother and she feels Emily is prepared to attend preschool.  It is only preschool, after all, what could happen?

==========

There was a childcare facility not far from the manor, and Breanne enrolled Emily for part-time care five days a week for half a day.  Breanne thought that would be long enough for Emily to learn and play with other children her own age.  Emily was excited to be going to school just like Melisent and Claryvorra.  So excited, in fact, that it was the first thing that she told Alarica when she returned from her business trip.

Alarica had a meeting in Washington, D.C. with a Senator Saxon Montgomery.  Senator Montgomery promised to hear Alarica, and promised to deliver her pleas to the rest of the Senate.  However, the only thing that was accomplished at this meeting was the reminder that Alarica needs to be reminded that there is really only one head of household.  Needless to say, she was never in a good mood when she returned from the trips.  That and exhaustion tended to shorten Alarica’s patience level quite a bit.  “If I hear one more time one more idiotic statement about women’s roles in the household, heads will roll!”

“Elmira, Secretary of State Crystal Wheaton will be coming tomorrow for lunch.  Be sure the cook prepares something suitable.  Notify the queen she is to be prepared for the meeting.  I will attend to . . .”

 “Mama Rica, you’re home.  Guess what?  I go school now, just like Meli and Vorra.”  Emily is excited at seeing Alarica’s return and she does not realize she has set off the bomb in Alarica’s head, as steam comes out of her ears.

Elmira only nods as she looks for a place to duck and cover.

“Breanne, where are you?!  We have something to discuss it seems!”  Why is it that no one listens to me?

Breanne is ready for this, and has prepared a presentation Breanne style: a detailed picture presentation to argue the reasons for her actions.  Alarica is ushered into the front room and made comfortable.  Elmira is curious and decides to watch as well.  First, an apology is expressed about going against orders.  However, the orders stated that Emily could not attend any school without authorization.  This is not a school, it is a childcare facility.  Emily will not attend all day everyday; she will only be attending five days a week for half a day.  Emily is excited about meeting new people and making new friends.  Breanne is only interested in socializing Emily, the education will come later.  What better way for Emily to learn about social behavior, etiquette, and learning about people than a school setting.  Sometimes real life experience is better than schoolbooks.  If Emily ever expresses a desire to stop going to preschool, Breanne will pull her out of preschool immediately.  The cost of childcare per month will be $150 because Emily is part-time.  Breanne has set up the payment for automatic withdrawal out of her checking account.

All of Alarica’s arguments are forgotten as Breanne makes her points.  Now, there are two people in the kingdom that are able to win a verbal duel.  Alarica can only agree with Breanne, stating that she is going to hold Breanne to her promise.  Breanne is ordered to change the billing so the payments will be taken from the House of Avalon instead.

Alarica calls for everyone to prepare herself for supper.  Melisandra, Breanne, Alarica, Elmira, and the girls enter the bathing pool.  Alarica keeps Melisandra close by since the reading of the punishment document.  Keep your friends close and your enemies even closer, and queens with a grudge underfoot.

Supper is eaten in silence.  Ernestine still cannot believe that Breanne prepared the document, it simply could not be.  Melisandra lost everything.  Her mother always protected Melisandra, and now, her mother is no longer.  What am I going to do now?

The sister-in-law is angry and needs to blame someone.  There is only one someone that I can blame.  But under close supervision and with her day scheduled as it was, it would be impossible to accomplish what she wished to accomplish.

==========

The following day, Alarica and Breanne walk Emily to her preschool, which is not at all what Alarica had envisioned.  She is feeling a little more at ease with the decision to enroll Emily into preschool.  After a conversation with the director, they walk back to the manor.

Alarica has been training Breanne on etiquette, expectations, and procedures.  Sovereigns have their own wants, needs, and ideas, and Alarica has hers.  Breanne needs to learn them all, because eventually, it will be expected that the consors will be able to anticipate the sovereign’s thoughts and actions.  There would be no difference.  Alarica finds that set up situations are a much better learning tool than any book or lecture.  Breanne has been learning everything and doing very well.  Alarica is very proud.

Emily is to be picked up by Elmira, while Alarica, Melisandra, and Breanne attend lunch with Crystal Wheaton.  Alarica does not have high expectations of this meeting.  She had read Ms. Wheaton’s mind on different occasions, and is not impressed by what she heard.  This meeting is necessary though, as it will give her a closer link to the American President, much closer than the various senators she has met with.  The outcome of this meeting is as she expected.  Lunch is had with mindless chatter about food and the weather conditions.  Alarica is annoyed and wants to discuss business.  However, Ms. Wheaton always steers clear of those subjects.  She leaves, leaving an annoyed sovereign, bored queen, and confused consors.

==========

During supper, Emily has her chance to tell everyone about her first day of school.  She is very excited and very happy, and she cannot wait to tell gamma.

Leonessa arrives the next day, excited about the news she is to deliver.  Expecting to see the baby, she does not find her.  She becomes increasingly worried and wonders if Breanne’s mother has arrived sooner than expected and found another victim.

“Breanne, child, where is the baby?  Where is Emily?  Is she hurt?  Is she ill?”  Leonessa is concerned and growing irritated, since Breanne starts laughing.

Breanne gives Leonessa a note that reads:

Em is fine.  Come and see.  I have something to show you.

Breanne then leads Leonessa to her workroom and shows her everything that she used to make the presentation to Alarica.  Leonessa studies everything carefully.

“So, what you are saying is you enrolled Emily into a childcare facility against orders from your sovereign?”  Leonessa is shocked that Breanne would do something like this.  Breanne does not understand the tone and thinks that maybe she just does not see everything.  Breanne takes the presentation back, to find the information that she needs to show Leonessa.  Breanne gives that particular piece to Leonessa, to show her why.  Leonessa sees the picture and still does not understand.

 “Alarica, my sovereign, please explain to me why you let a yearling be enrolled in school, against orders at that?”  Leonessa needs to find the answer, not seeing the answer in the information she was given.

“Mother, Lady Leonessa, I am her sovereign, and she is my consors.  Part of her duties includes seeing to the well being of the children, whatever that may entail.”  Alarica searches through the presentation pictures and information to find the one that she needs.  Leonessa starts reading, looking at the pictures again, this time without anger clouding her vision.

“I am sorry.  I did not intend to be so harsh.  I miss the yearling running to me calling for gamma.  I was shocked and hurt that she is not here.  Could I come with you to pick up Emily?  If I understand the pictures, she finishes her day a little after midday.  Would I be able to come with you?”  Breanne nods her head and embraces Leonessa, letting her know everything is just fine.

==========

Emily is excited to see her gamma has returned.  Melisent and Claryvorra return home later that day, and that is when Breanne begins getting increasingly nervous.  Leonessa thinks that maybe the news that the council signed the appointment papers would have relieved the nervousness, which it does not.  Alarica is at a loss as to what to do, nothing works.  Melisent tells everyone it is because her grandmother is coming to dinner, and nothing will calm mama down until grandmother leaves.

Breanne is trembling uncontrollably, so it is up to Leonessa to see to it that Breanne is prepared.  Alarica prepares Melisandra, giving her a lecture at the same time.  The sister-in-law is kept in her quarters due to the seriousness of this dinner.  Breanne tries, tries hard to explain to Leonessa that the girls will be safer in another room.  Leonessa just has a hard time understanding.  When words fail, a picture will speak the words that a person cannot.  Leonessa finally understands.  She speaks with Alarica, showing her the picture as well.  Alarica understands and agrees.  She calls for the girls, to explain the situation, and reluctantly, they agree

Breanne’s mother arrives for dinner, a half hour late, having always felt that it is best to be fashionably late.  It is what is expected.

“Breanne, are you here?!  Where are you, stupid child?”

“There is no need for vulgarity in this house.  You are in the House of Avalon, and you are expected to abide by our customs and rules.  I am Lady Leonessa; I will escort you to the dining table.”

Leonessa escorts Breanne’s mother to the dining room, and when they enter and the mother sees Breanne sitting, she immediately begins yelling.  “Get up from the table!  What are you doing sitting down before the food is served.  Babies wait until the grown-ups eat.  I said get up!”

Alarica, I love you.  Help me, please.

Alarica acknowledges Breanne’s plea, annoyed that this woman feels it is necessary to belittle her consors.  “Madam, might I remind you that you were invited to my house for dinner.  We are all seated here at the table waiting for you.  The invitation stated that dinner would be at six o’clock this evening.  It is now 6:35 in the evening.  Please do not further embarrass yourself by continuing to belittle a member of my household.”

Breanne’s mother is stunned.  Breanne has a friend, who treats her as an equal.  Attempting to keep some dignity intact, she does not respond any further, and sits down in the spot appointed just for her, much to her annoyance, next to Alarica.  It would be easier to control the situation.  Alarica rings the bell for the food to be presented to the table.  Breanne is still trembling, and is finding it extremely hard to hold onto anything at the table.  Leonessa leaves her hand on Breanne’s lap to comfort her.  Breanne’s mother finds these events amusing.  Alarica is aware of all that is happening, and pinches Breanne’s mother to get her attention.  Breanne’s mother simply ignores Alarica.

“Baby, baby, I want more wine.  Go get it.”  If there is one thing she likes, that is wine.

Breanne starts to get up, but is held down by Leonessa.  Breanne is confused.  Her mother ordered wine and she is supposed to go get it.  Alarica orders more wine to be brought to the table.

“I wanted Breanne to bring me my wine.  After all, she is my daughter.  I can do with her what I please.”  If anyone said that Leonessa is angry, it would be an understatement.  Leonessa is a student of battle strategies, and Breanne’s mother had just declared war.  And Leonessa does not believe in surrendering.

“Madam, the wine was brought to you.  Breanne is seated here, comfortably eating her meal.  Is there anything else you desire, madam?  Perhaps a contest, physical in nature, in the morning, would interest you?”  Leonessa is not going to let this woman go without a show of arms.

“I have you know I am very fit for my age.  I am in better shape than Breanne.  You against me tomorrow morning sounds like a fine idea.  An obstacle course, I think, like they have on TV. Then when I beat you, I will go against the woman seated next to me.  When I beat her, I will take Breanne back to my house.  There are a few lessons that we have not completed yet.”

Alarica sees the panicked look in Breanne’s eyes and feels that it is her time to step in, before the knife looks even more appealing.  “Madam, we will see who wins the obstacle course tomorrow.  Breanne and the girls will remain here at the manor.  The contest will begin at nine o’clock tomorrow morning.  You will go against the both of us.  You do not appear on time, it means forfeit.  Do you understand?”

“Oh good, I get to show the both of you just how much in shape I am.”  Everything that Breanne’s mother has said up to that point is a complete contradiction to what she is doing.  Five bottles of wine, the appetizer, main course, and dessert later, she is still boasting just how much in good shape she is in.  This night is educational, in both patience and strategy.

“Well, I should be going home.  Breanne, there is something I would like to discuss with you.”

Alarica follows behind them, ready to protect Breanne.  The images that she saw in Breanne’s mother’s head leading her to believe she cannot be trusted.

“I want to talk to Breanne alone.  This is a private matter.”

“In this house, privacy does not exist.  Breanne is a member of this household as well, and I have a right to know her business.”

Breanne’s mother can only stick her nose up in the air.  She is stuck in this house without anyone to help defend her.  “Breanne, I went by your house and saw it was for sale.  You will move back in immediately.  I already called the real estate office.  There are some papers that need to be signed.  I would do it for you, seeing as you are only a baby, but they need your signature.”

Breanne uses the warrior signs that Alarica taught her to use, not wanting to risk speaking knowing how her mother would react.

“Stop that jibber jabber and foul language.  I told you . . .”

“Madam, she said she will not go to the real estate office.  It is not necessary to have a house that I will not be occupying.  I am an artist, mother, and confidant.  I can read, write, and do arithmetic by myself.  I have a responsibility to fulfill.”

“I see, and she said that?”

“Yes she did, madam.  There are many ways of communicating.”  Lady Leonessa has returned from seeing that the girls are all right.

Lady Leonessa holds up a large piece of paper that Breanne had written in a moment of frustration.

Audio, EGO animadverto, EGO perceptum, proinde, EGO agnosco

“What is that gibberish supposed to mean?  That is not even a real language.”

“Yes, madam, it is a real language.  It says: I hear, I see, I learn, therefore, I understand.  Nobody showed Breanne how to write this.  This was done out of frustration.  I could spend the entire evening showing you how intelligent Breanne truly is, but we have a match tomorrow.  We will see you in the morning.”  Leonessa just smiles using every force imaginable to control the outburst waiting to come out.

Breanne’s mother turns around and walks away.  Leonessa puts away the paper and leaves for the yard, to work off some frustration.  Alarica would have followed, but Breanne’s needs are more urgent.  It takes quite a bit of effort for Breanne to calm down, relax, and go to sleep, the events of the evening finally taking their toll.

Alarica finally joins her mother, to work off some of her own frustration.  The rest, Melisandra would work off later that night.

==========

“Melisandra, it is morning, and time to rise.  Get out of bed so we may prepare ourselves for the day.”  Alarica waits for a count of ten then picks up a goblet, and filling it with water, is ready to throw it at the queen.  Melisandra does not like this.  She would rather sleep for as long as she can, savoring the visions and the feelings.  But if she does not get out of bed, she would suffer a goblet thrown on her.

Melisandra and Alarica wait for everyone in the bathing chamber.  Melisandra thinks that since they are alone, she might as well have a little fun.  Last night was glorious and well worth the marks.  However, she wants to continue the feeling of leaving love trails on her sovereign.  Alarica pushes away Melisandra’s advances.  Melisandra tries again, and only stops due to the threat of finding a separate sleeping chamber with an assigned guard.

Everyone shows up to bathe together and get ready for the day.  As the course is set up outside, Breanne brings out a few first aid supplies, just in case.  First an archery course, then a tunnel, three hurdles, tires, a rope to swing to a wall, and then a 10-yard dash.  The one with the most points and fastest time wins the contest.  In the minds of Leonessa and Alarica, it is a basic course that anybody would be able to accomplish.  Just for fun, while nobody is there, at least so she thought, she completes the obstacle course. Breanne had never done anything like this before, but it looked too good to pass up, and is happy she completed it without breaking any bones.  Little did she know that Alarica had been watching and timing her.  Alarica sneaks back into the house and tells mother what she has seen.  Leonessa did not think it would be possible for pride to swell to such proportions.  It does however, whenever it involves Breanne.

Breanne’s mother arrives on time this morning, and is brought outside to become familiar with the obstacle course.

Alarica greets the mother outside.  “Good morning to you.  This is the obstacle course.  Take your time to familiarize yourself with it.  We will begin when you are ready.”

A half-hour later, she declares, “I’m ready.  How will this be done?”  The mother is anxious to get this done, wanting Breanne to return home, and will do anything to accomplish that.

“It is very simple.  The three of us will complete the obstacle one at a time.  The person who has the most points and the best time wins the competition.  One of my staff will keep time.  Are there any questions before we begin?”  Alarica knows what Breanne’s mother has in mind.

“Okay, looks easy enough.  Let us begin then.  I will go first.”  Breanne’s mother starts the obstacle course.  Not one arrow hits the target, she is able to get through the tunnel, however, topples over all of the hurdles, trips through the tires, is not able to climb the rope nor swing the rope, therefore walks around the wall, and walks the 10-yard dash.  Breanne runs in to fix the course while the time is recorded.

“I will go through next.”  Alarica is confident she will be able to accomplish the course, blindfolded even.  The arrows hit their mark, she crawls through the tunnel, clears the hurdles, runs effortlessly through the tires, climbs the rope, and easily swings over the wall, and finally, runs the 10-yard dash, all in the total time of 1:45 and 22 points.  Breanne does not have much to clean this time.

“It looks like I am next.”  Leonessa passes the course easily, with a time of 1:40 and 22 points.  She is not even breathing hard, whereas Breanne’s mother is still attempting to catch her breath.

Waters are given all around for a brief rest before discussing the results.  Alarica and Leonessa are both smiling with pride.  “It seems as though we have a winner.”  Breanne’s mother immediately gets up from the bench, grabs Breanne’s hand and just opens the door.  “The winner of the obstacle course is Breanne, with a time of 1:38 and 22 points.  Congratulations, Breanne, you should be proud.”  This causes Breanne’s mother to stop in her tracks.

“You are not telling me that this stupid girl completed this course.  I know she couldn’t have, because I didn’t see her do anything.”

“On the contrary, madam, she completed the course before your arrival.  I witnessed the event myself.”  Alarica only has one thought.  Never underestimate the enemy.

“How do I know you’re not lying to me?  She would do anything to get out of working.  She is a very lazy child.  She wasn’t here when we started, and she didn’t agree to do the course.”

“Madam, if you do not believe her, then you will believe me when I show you the recording of the events myself, madam.  As far as Breanne is concerned, if you will not accept her scores, then you must accept mine.”  Leonessa is at a critical breaking point: whether or not to break every bone in this woman’s body, that is.

“Well, I’m sure it is a lie.  This course was rigged.  It was set up so that you could keep her from me.  You will not, I am her mother.  I can do with her what I wish.”

Alarica has had enough, no one would dare hurt her family.  “Madam, you seem to overlook the simple fact that you completed the obstacle course with a time of 5:10 and 1 point.  Breanne is a part of this agreement, and I feel that her scores should be taken into consideration.  However, you are correct; she did not state any desire to be a part of this contest.  What was stated was that you must defeat both Lady Leonessa and myself to be able to take Breanne away from us.  You stated so yourself.  You have not accomplished that.”

“You rigged it.  You rigged it so I would lose.  The arrows are crooked, the hurdles too high, the rope does not work, and there is no way to go up the wall.  I will take my daughter right now.”

Alarica calls one the guards of similar height and weight to Breanne’s mother.  The guard is able to complete the course in 1:45 and 22 points.  “As you can see, the course was not rigged.  You will not take Breanne anywhere.  She is a valued member of my household.  In the end, however, the decision lies with Breanne.  It is up to her to choose.”  Breanne hears and understands what is being said.  For Breanne, it was never a question.  She struggles free from her mother, to embrace Leonessa, her mother of the heart.

“You come here immediately, baby.  Baby, you come here this instant or no dinner for you.  Stupid baby, I’m warning you.”  The guards surround her so she can be escorted immediately away from the manor, and is never to return.

Breanne looks up into Leonessa’s eyes and signs I’m sorry and thank you.

“My child, you have nothing to apologize for, and you are welcome.  You are a treasured member of this household.”  Leonessa embraces Breanne with the only kind of love a mother should give, unconditional love.

==========

The day proceeds as usual, the girls come home from school, and there are duties to see to.  Melisent, however, has a matter of her own to see to.  “Mama, we have to go shopping for our Halloween costumes.  I want to be Hermione.”  If there was a story that attracted Melisent, it was Harry Potter.  She has read all the books and seen all the movies.  While she thinks Harry Potter is cute, she admires Hermione for many reasons.  Breanne assumes it is because of Harry Potter.  So the discussion starts and an agreement is reached.  Melisent will be Hermione, and Breanne will make the costumes.  The last time she asked Emily, she wanted to be a bunny.  That left Claryvorra.  Just because Claryvorra is not her natural born daughter, that does not mean she does not need to take care of her.  Melisent has been hinting that Halloween will be soon, and a decision needs to be made.

Breanne leaves her girls painting a picture in the workroom.  After searching the sleeping chamber and the study, the kitchen is the next stop.  Claryvorra is in the kitchen getting something to drink for the girls.  Breanne does not know if Claryvorra has the same abilities as Alarica, so she uses warrior signs to convey her message.  Claryvorra is familiar with the signs, but not fluent enough to interpret them, so she leads Breanne to the laboratory, where her mother has been working.

“Mother, Consors Breanne is trying to ask me something, but I cannot understand.  Could you interpret for me, please?”

“Concentrate and you will understand.  You already know how to read the signs.”

“I know what the signs mean, but not enough to be able to carry a conversation.”

“You need to practice, Claryvorra.”

“Please, Mother, just this once.”

“Breanne, what is it that you are asking Claryvorra?”

The girls are getting ready for Halloween.  Mel wants to be Hermione, Em maybe bunny, and that leaves you.  What you want to be?  …Breanne thinks instead of signing.

After Alarica conveys the message, Claryvorra gives this question deep thought, never having been asked the question.  She is familiar with Hermione; Melisent had given her the books to read.  Therefore, what to do?  Then she has an idea.  “I am thinking maybe a wizard.  I have seen pictures in the stores and in Melisent’s books.”

Breanne breathes a sigh of relief.  There is something on her lower back, and she looks up into Alarica’s eyes.  That is it.  A gift of love returned.  Breanne grabs Claryvorra’s hand, to take her to the workroom; there is a costume to design.  Claryvorra uses the colored pencils to create her costume. Now that the costumes are designed, all that is needed was to bring them to life.

After a trip to town to acquire the necessary supplies and three days to do each costume, they were done.  The girls are proud of the costumes, and Melisent wants to show off her costume, inspiring the others to do the same.  All the adults enjoy the fashion show, Ernestine aside.

==========

Preparations for the Harvest Festival and Celebration were underway, with the girls planning a party of their own.  Melisent would be attending the party held at her school with Claryvorra, and Emily would be attending the Harvest Festival at her preschool.  Luckily, the parties were not scheduled so that they would interfere with each other.  Instead, they would be either the day before or the day after.

Breanne had always attended the girls’ parties, but never a party with adults.  She is nervous, to say the least.  Alarica has a last minute meeting with Lithuania in the hopes of forming an alliance somewhere else, with the eventuality of forming one with the United States.  Meanwhile, Leonessa is having a discussion with Ernestine as to the proper placement of the official documents.

Queen Melisandra has been assigned the duty of supervising the preparations for the celebration.  Without her sovereign watching over her, she is free to do what she pleases, that is, if she can get passed the guards, which did not seem possible.  If I cannot exact my revenge on the consors then maybe I will have a little fun with her instead.  After all, if it were not for her, my family would not be torn apart.

Melisandra feels it is necessary for Breanne to go to the town square to purchase a picture representing the harvest.  So she asks Breanne to go to town for the needless errand.  Breanne is glad for the break, no matter how silly the errand sounds.  However, Breanne does offer to paint a picture instead of purchasing such a picture, but the offer is refused.  Breanne leaves to go do what Melisandra has requested of her.

After leaving the gallery with a picture in hand, she is grabbed from behind, her mouth covered, and dragged into an alley to be beaten.

==========

Alarica has returned from the meeting, feeling something resembling accomplishment.  She finds Melisandra and requests an update on the preparations.

“Melisandra, where is Breanne?”  Alarica knows that Breanne is not home, and that meant Melisandra had something to do with it.

“I do not know what you are speaking of, meus imperium.”  Melisandra is getting nervous.  How was she to know?

“Melisandra, I left you here by yourself without my direct supervision with the purpose of the two of you finding resolution.  The matter is past.  What was done is done; nothing will bring back anything that was lost.  What happened was not Breanne’s doing, it was your mother’s.  Your mother made her choice.”

“She caused everything to happen.  If she had not been here, I would still have my mother.”

“Melisandra, you miss your mother because there is no one who will fight your battles for you.  This is the first time you must fight your own fight without relying on someone else.”  Alarica leaves immediately to speak with the guards and search for her missing minime uni.

Melisandra screams and cries as a result of the encounter.  Her life and family have been turned upside down, and Breanne is to blame for it.  Right...?  It is, after all, Breanne’s fault that the queen no longer has her mother to protect her.  Nothing makes sense anymore.  The more she thinks about the past events, the angrier she becomes.  Is her sovereign right?

==========

Emily has stayed home to be with her gamma.  She wonders what is making that noise.  When she sees what it is, she asks, “Gamma, how come she make that noise?”

“She is doing that because she does not know what else to do.  She has relied on someone else for too long.  Now she must learn how to make her own decisions.”

 

Part 9

Breanne manages to escape after the beating, sheer determination allowing her to make it back to the manor just short of opening the front door.  She does not have enough strength left to continue, and collapses as she grasps the doorknob.

“Ms. Wheaton, I am happy to see you here . . . again.”  At that moment, Alarica feels something.  What is that?  “If you would please excuse me for a moment, I will return.”  She leaves for the laboratory, out of sight of the Secretary of State.  She concentrates when she feels it again, and suddenly opens her eyes after realizing what it is she is feeling.  She leaves the laboratory for her study, to speak with Ms. Wheaton.  “Ms. Wheaton, I am sorry, but I must request that this meeting be rescheduled.  There is something that I must attend to.”

“I came to this meeting based on your request, Ms. Alarica.  Now you are telling me you must reschedule.  Very well, I will let my assistant know of your request.  Good day to you, Ms. Alarica.”  Crystal Wheaton leaves the manor, leaving Alarica to accomplish her goal.  That goal is to rescue Breanne.  Alarica quickly gathers the necessary supplies with the intention of leaving the manor with or without security.  She cannot wait, she has to leave.  As she opens the door, Breanne’s body falls to the floor of the entryway.

Alarica immediately picks her up to take her to the laboratory.  She does not have time to react to the situation, only act to save her consors’ life.  After a careful examination, she determines Breanne has too many injuries and a head injury to heal here at the manor without the proper tools.  She needs to go back to Avalon.  She is able to stabilize Breanne by placing her in dormancy, which is temporary, and she needs to act quickly.

“Elmira, work with Ernestine to pack everything immediately.  Use as many guards as needed.”

“Meus imperium, sister…what is wrong?”

“Breanne has been hurt.  I do not have anything here that can help her.  I need to go back to Avalon.”

“Yes, meus imperium, I hope she recovers soon.”  Elmira immediately meets with Ernestine to pack everything for the move back to Avalon.  Ernestine is very happy to be moving back home.  Elmira does not tell her the move back is due to Breanne’s injuries.

“Queen Melisandra, coordinate with your sister to be sure all necessities are coming back with us back to Avalon.”

“We are moving, sire?”  Melisandra is very happy to hear the news, and does not bother to ask the reason why.  Alarica has another duty to attend to, and that is to explain to the children the sudden change of plans.

Leonessa offers to speak to the children about the move to Avalon.  Alarica feels it is her duty, therefore will do so, even though the circumstances are unpleasant.  Alarica gathers the children and explains the events as thoroughly as she can.  Melisent is angry, angry that her grandmother would do such a thing.  Emily only wants to go to her mama.  Alarica promises that they can all see Breanne later, before the move back to Avalon.  That left Claryvorra in charge of being sure all of them packed what was needed.

Leonessa packs the supplies in the workroom.  Alarica packs the laboratory quickly, to oversee how the others are tending to the order.  Everything and everyone is now packed and ready to move.  Alarica let the girls see Breanne before the move.  Leonessa will lead, and Alarica will follow.

===========

It had been seven days since their arrival back to Avalon.  Ethelmona was to go to America to finish what Alarica had started.  Queen Melisandra supervised the unpacking and settling of everyone.  Claryvorra’s caretaker missed her pupil, and was very happy she brought friends along with her.  Elmira began the legal paperwork for citizenship for Breanne.  Breanne was appointed consors for the sovereign, and therefore, would automatically become a citizen of Avalon.  However, to be sure that her citizenship was stable, in the event of Alarica’s death, Breanne’s citizenship needed to be secured so there would be no question.  Because the girls are her natural born daughters, they would be citizens of Avalon as well.

Breanne wakes up slowly, confused about the sights and sounds.  Where am I?  This isn’t the house.  I don’t hear traffic, but I hear people marching.  Where am I?  The last thing she remembers is the need to go home.  Now, she was here, wherever this place is.  Too weak to do anything, she can only lay there and wonder.

Leonessa comes into the room to check on Breanne.  “Breanne, child, are you awake?”  Breanne attempts to say something anything, but finds she cannot.  “Do not say anything, child.  Your voice box was badly damaged and will take quite some time to heal properly.  It is good to see you well.”  Leonessa is in tears as she watches Breanne, knowing she is going to be all right.  Both Alarica and Leonessa worked feverishly to help Breanne to heal.  It is good to see their efforts have succeeded in helping Breanne to recover.

Leonessa gives Breanne a pad and pencil to express her thoughts.  Breanne asks question after question to Leonessa, who explains everything to Breanne as simply as she can.  Breanne falls asleep once again.  Leonessa is happy beyond words that her special daughter is going to be alright.

Leonessa meets with Alarica to tell her the good news.  Alarica has been very worried due to the amount of time Breanne has been in a healing sleep.  Her duties as sovereign, however, have kept her busy enough to focus her mind on other things.  Alarica runs to Breanne’s recovery room.  There it was, the proof that Breanne was alright.  The writing is rough and just barely readable, but it proved that Breanne would be coming back.  The sovereign would have her consors.

==========

It takes three months for Breanne to heal completely, and another three months before she gets her strength back.  All the physical scars are gone; all that is left are the emotional ones.  Breanne often wakes up during the night, not able to go back to sleep, and wanders the palace.  She sees her paintings hanging on the walls, framed perfectly for all to see.  It is on one of these excursions that she hears a strange noise, and leaves the palace to see who is there.  Leonessa told her, her mother would not be able to follow them to Avalon.  She and the children are safe here.  So what can it be?

Using a lantern, she walks in the direction of the strange noise, and that is when Breanne sees her.  About as tall as Alarica, some parts have feathers while others are skin.  The half bird half-human, whatever it is, needs help and that is all Breanne needs to knows.  She approaches slowly and carefully, humming a lullaby to sooth this strange beast.  Breanne requests help from a couple of the guards, not wanting to add to the injuries, to bring her into a vacant room.  There is a piece of something in its wing, and she remembers it is best to leave the object in, rather than pull it out.  She secures it, leaving it alone until she can explain to Alarica what she needs help with.  Breanne does not want to leave it in too long though, as she is sure it is causing pain, even if the piece does not look too big, so decides to pull it out after all.  Apologizing before attempting the pull, and thinking of a prayer, she pulls it out of its wing.  The beast does not make a sound, only seems to relax a bit.

Breanne stitches the wound closed then fills a bucket with water, and with whatever material she can find, she bathes the beast.

==========

The next morning, Alarica expected to find Breanne in her bed, but she is not there.  So where can she be?  It is a large palace, and while it did take Breanne quite some time to learn it, she did eventually learn the layout.  Better than Alarica, actually.  So the possibility of Breanne being lost is unlikely, unless she ventured outside the palace.  Alarica is about to call for her guards when she sees Breanne walk down the hall, covered in what looks like mud and blood?

Alarica does not speak, only picks up Breanne to bring her to her the laboratory.  Alarica strips off Breanne’s clothes to examine her for any wounds.  Breanne does not know what to say, that is, until Leonessa comes into the room.

“Well, good morning to you all.  Did something happen last night?  I spoke with the captain of the guards and she stated that two of her guards had assisted a member of the palace with a strange beast into the palace.  Does either one of you know anything about this?”

‘Can I have something to wear, please?  Alarica tore my dress off.’  Breanne is beginning to shiver, making it a little difficult to sign her request.

“Of course you may.  Alarica sometimes gets over excited and does things without explanation.”  Leonessa gives Breanne a gown to wear to avoid embarrassment, and that is when she sees the bloodied gown from the night before.  “This blood is not yours.  Whose blood is this?”

‘I took a walk last night.  I heard something, so I left to see what it was.  It’s a half bird half man thing.  I took out the stick, and it bled lots.  I was going to wash up, but she grabbed me before I could,’ Breanne signs.

“Half human half bird . . . could it be?  Breanne, there is a legend that says, there is a world far above ours, and on that world are people who are able to fly like a bird.  You said you pulled out a stick.  Could you show this beast to me, please?”  Leonessa is intrigued as Breanne tells her story.

Alarica does not miss the fact Breanne is wandering the palace at night, a time when Breanne should be sleeping.

==========

Leonessa approaches the beast, and without warning, the beast fiercely grabs Leonessa’s hand.  Breanne starts humming again, petting the beast.  It starts to relax, and therefore, lets go.  Leonessa starts humming a lullaby of her own as she checks the wound.  Leonessa smiles with pride, recognizing the stitching.  “You did very well, Breanne.  The stitches are small and even.  You did good work.  I will send Alarica back here with something that will help prevent infection.  I have to speak with the captain of the guards, to let her know of our unexpected guest.”

Alarica has heard and understands everything her mother tells her.  She approaches slowly, humming a lullaby as well, and wraps gauze around the wing to give it time to heal.

Back in the study now, Alarica confronts Breanne about the conversation that she has had just had with Leonessa.  “Breanne, what were you doing wandering the palace at night?”

Breanne feels like a kid whose hand has been caught in the cookie jar.  Her right foot circling the floor, while holding her hands at her back, along with a shrug, is her only response.

“Breanne, do you need a sleeping potion to help you sleep?”  Breanne does not react, only looks at Alarica as she asks the questions.

“Okay, Breanne, after bathing tonight, you will come with me to the laboratory.  I need to see what is bothering you.  I need to see your soul.  Your physical injuries have healed, leaving your soul to be healed.  I care about you, minime uni.  You are more than just my consors.  If it were up to me, I would leave Melisandra and make you my wife.  But I cannot.  It is not up to me.  I expect your friend to sleep through the day.  I need you to ride to the Western provinces to speak with the satrap.  Let her know that her presence is mandatory for the soiree to be held to announce your appointment.  The satrap should not have any problems interpreting the warrior signs, if she does, come back immediately to let me know.  Two guards will follow, they know the way.  I will check in with the beast on occasion.  Prepare yourself for departure.  I expect you to leave within the hour.”  Breanne just stands there, looking at Alarica.  Alarica is confused. Did I forget something?

“The children are fine.  The caretaker, Lady Leonessa, and I all take part in their education.”  Breanne embraces Alarica with all that she has.  Using a finger gesture, she asks Alarica to bend over, and places a kiss on her cheek.  Alarica smiles as a result.

==========

Breanne had come back from the western province, and one day soon after, she heard squawking from the palace.  She ran in to see what was wrong, and there was Ernestine, being held up in the air.  The beast had woken up seeking its little one, the one that had been kind and gentle, but found Ernestine instead, and felt she was a threat to its little one.  The beast made its presence known, moving to protect Breanne from the stranger.

Breanne hummed the lullaby that she knew would be familiar, and approached the beast without fear.  She rubbed its arm at the same time she lowered it.  The beast understood and lowered Ernestine, who afterwards ran screaming out of the room, to the floor.  It had exerted all of its energy defending itself against Ernestine.  Breanne gently led the beast back to bed, poured a goblet, and left the beast to rest.

Breanne found Alarica and immediately reported to her everything that had been said and done.  Alarica was pleased, and now that she knew the reason why Ernestine was screaming, she chose to ignore Ernestine’s request to immediately see to the beast’s execution.  Alarica was only sorry that the beast did not hurt Ernestine.

Alarica, sing something, anything, before it hurts you.  Breanne does not want her best friend to die.  Singing worked for her, why should it not for somebody else.

Alarica sings the lullaby that she sang the last time she tended to its wounds.  The beast does not recognize the tunes and begins approaching Alarica.  Breanne steps in and hums the lullaby that she has all along.  While the beast seems to sooth, it does not seem to stop it.  Breanne moves in front of the beast, and speaks out of desperation, “Thop itch, she my friend.  She help fix your wing.”  The beast stops, puzzled about what it hears.  The beast takes one of Breanne’s hands and moves it to its wing, over the band-aid.  “I thitched itch, she help choo make itch betcher.”

It stands there for quite a while, not doing anything.  After a long while, it speaks.  “You say stitch my wing and she make it better, how.”

Breanne feels relieved that there is some form of communication.  “She putch herbth on itch.”

“I am Aegle, who are you, little dove?”  Though the speech is slow, they are at least communicating.

“I am Breanne.  Thith itch Thovereign Thyan Alarica of Avalon.”

“I am sorry.  I do not harm.  I came to find little dove.  How long before heal?”

“Well, couple dayth maybe.”

“I do not know.”

Breanne looks to Alarica for help.  Alarica resists however, believing that if someone starts something, they must finish it.  Breanne starts to use the warrior signs, thinking it will help Aegle to understand.

Aegle put her hand on Breanne’s.  “I hear words.  But not know how long.”

“A couple dayth meanth maybe choo dayth…”

“Maybe two days to heal.  Little dove, please cut binding.  Wing stiff from closing, please cut binding.”  Breanne hears the plea, and starts to look around for something to cut the binding off with, when she feels something put into her hand.  Aegle has given Breanne her own dagger to cut the bindings, though it causes Alarica to prepare herself for a fight.  Breanne cuts the binding and watches as the material falls to the floor.  Checking the wound to be sure it is all right, she gently massages the wing then slowly opens it just enough to earn a satisfied groan.

“How abow a bath...?”  Breanne suggests thinking a bath will help Aegle to feel better.  The wound is still healing and can not get wet as a result.  A sponge bath would have to do for now.

“A bath, yes…that would be nice, thank you, little dove.”  Aegle walks back to the room she previously occupied and waits for her little dove’s return with the promised bath.

“Breanne, I appreciate your heart and your dedication.  However, your next duty to attend to is to travel to the east with the same message that you delivered to the Western Satrap.  Patience…you will need patience for the Eastern Satrap.  I will send two guards with you.  They know the way.  I will see to Aegle’s well being.  You must depart immediately.  Travel safely, my minime uni.”  Breanne leaves to prepare herself for departure.

Alarica gathers the necessary supplies for a bath, interested herself in getting to know this new creature Breanne found.  She starts to bathe Aegle, when her wrist is grabbed suddenly.  “Aegle, it is Alarica.  It will be all right.  I needed to send Breanne away.  I am here instead.”

“You send little dove away without help.  Dove cannot do anything if cannot speak.  I must see to her.”

Alarica gently pushes Aegle back on the bed.  “There are many forms of communication.  I would not send her anywhere without proper protection.  You must lie still.”  Aegle lies back on the bed and seems to go to sleep.

Leonessa enters the room in search of Alarica, and Aegle hears an unfamiliar person enter the room.  Leonessa bends over to check the wound and her wrist is grabbed instead.  “It is all right, strange one.  I am Leonessa.  Please let go of me.”  Aegle eases the hold, but does not let go.

“Aegle, please let go of my mother.  She came to see you.”

Aegle immediately lets go, only to sit up right with eyes gazing at the both of them.

“Little dove come back?”

“No, she has not.  I do not expect for her to return until the last meal is served.”  Alarica is both relieved and nervous.

“Please send her when she come back.”  Aegle lies back down, to sleep peacefully.

Alarica and Leonessa leave the room, closing the drape behind them.  Alarica and Leonessa exchange information as they head for the bathing chamber.

==========

 Queen Melisandra, Elmira, and the rest of the family join them soon after, everyone telling a story of their own.  Breanne returns from the eastern territory, sooner than Alarica thought, and would like to know how she is able to return so quickly.  Breanne takes a quick peek into her patient’s room, only to see Aegle sleeping.  She then joins the family in the bathing chamber.

“How is it that you were able to return so quickly?”  It is an answer that Alarica needs to know.

I just talked to her, that’s all.  Breanne shrugs her shoulders, not knowing how else to answer the question.

Aegle suddenly appears at the entryway to the bathing chamber.  The girls do not fear Aegle, however, Queen Melisandra screams for the guards.  Breanne walks out of the bathing pool, leads Aegle into the chamber and closes the drapes.  No guard will enter as long as the draperies are closed.

“I worry you be safe. Your leader say you would be well.”

Breanne nods her head, and embraces her gently beneath the wings.  Breanne reenters the pool to finish bathing.

Melisandra continues to scream.  “Are you not going to do anything about that beast?  Do not just stand there; get rid of that beast…immediately!”

Breanne rinses off quickly then leaves the bathing chamber to escort Aegle back to her room.  After she sees to Aegle’s comfort, Breanne directly goes to the study, to speak with Alarica about the events that led to her early return.

Alarica has never been so amused to receive a report.  She should have known only her consors would think of something so simple, and have it work.  Breanne prepared a presentation, to save her the trip back and forth, and to provide written documentation.

After seeing to her duties, Breanne has a little time before the last meal is called.  She wants to see if Aegle is well and resting comfortably.  She checks the wound, and feels that the wound is well healed, but the mother side of her says to be extra careful.

“You check the wound often.  That is good.  It means you are a concerned land dweller.  Do you think, though, you remove the stitches now before my people search for me?  I am worried my people would not understand.”  Breanne thinks about that and realizes it would be for the better, but she cannot help but wonder that it would be too soon.  Expressing her concerns, Breanne compromises with Aegle to teach Breanne how to call upon her people to give them a message.  Agreeing that it would be a good idea, Aegle teaches Breanne how to call upon the Aireon people.  They are always above, circling, watching, and observing the land dwellers.  Aegle writes a note, telling her people she will return in three suns, after healing from the inflicted injury.  Always curious, Breanne tries to read the note but cannot, since Aegle has written the note in the language of the birds.

Breanne is on her way outside to find a clearing when Alarica stops her.  “Breanne, it will be time for the last meal.  Are you not hungry?”

I’m fine.  I’ll just be a minute.  Breanne does as she has been instructed, but no one has come down, and thinks she has failed.  She is about to ask Aegle for assistance when Aegle’s people surround her.  Alarica has been watching Breanne in fascination, and finds herself surrounded as well.  Breanne holds out the note Aegle has written.  One of the flock members reads the note and nods its head, but no one moves.  Breanne starts humming the lullaby that she hums to Aegle.  Aegle hears and answers Breanne, wondering why Breanne has summoned her.  Once Aegle arrives by Breanne’s side, she immediately pulls Alarica out of reach, placing her closer to the palace entrance.  Communicating with her people, they bow and leave immediately.

Aegle reaches for Breanne’s and Alarica’s hands, to go back to the palace to have the last meal together.  “Do I have permission to eat with you?”  Aegle is feeling stronger under Breanne’s care, and wants to know more about the land dwellers.  Permission granted everyone sits at the table.

Melisandra and Ernestine are disturbed by Aegle’s presence.  Leonessa is happy to see the guest feeling well enough to have a full meal.  The girls are just fascinated at seeing such a being.  The meal is completed in silence, except for the occasional giggle from Emily.

Aegle asks to speak with Alarica, thinking that it is time for the Aireon people and the land dwellers to come together.  “Leader, I think it time for the Aireon people and land dwellers to form a bond.  I have seen much, heard many stories, and think we would benefit from this bond.”  Aegle feels a need to stretch her wings, and the expanse of the study allows her to do so, feeling pleasure as she spreads her wings to their full extent.  Alarica is stunned to see such a thing.

Upon closing her wings, “Do you say yes?”

“Yes.  I am sorry.  Yes, I agree we could form a treaty.  Avalon has been at peace for many centuries.  We have lived under the Cloak of Secrecy for many centuries and I feel that it is time to reach out our hand.  Grab a hold of that hand, any hand that is reaching for assistance or for peace.  I would be very happy to discuss a treaty with you.”

“I will discuss with little dove.”

“All right, would you like me to remove the stitches?”

“Little dove will remove when it is time.  I will speak with you later.  Be patient with little dove.  She still has visions of a hand that hurt her.  This vision troubles her.  I cannot take the vision.  I can only see.”  Aegle leaves to go back to her room, leaving Alarica behind in the study thinking.

==========

Breanne tried to go to sleep that night.  But she could not help remembering the dream that returns every night.  If it had not been for a dog that suddenly showed up, distracting them, she would have been struck dead.  She took that opportunity to escape, running, and hiding until she reached the manor.  It was easier to stay awake than to go to sleep dreaming of her death.

Alarica had been searching for a solution for Breanne’s insomnia.  Having healed the body, it was now time to heal the soul.  In order to do that, the mind and the heart need to work together to help heal the soul.  It meant time, as well as using Alarica’s powers, but it would be possible.  Anything was possible, especially if the necessity was great enough.  Leonessa and Alarica had worked out a plan to aid Breanne in sleeping through the night.  All that was left was to pray to the deity.

Breanne lies awake for a while before feeling the need to leave the sleeping cushions.  She begins to rise, but is pushed gently back down again onto the sleeping cushions.  What is happening?  I thought I was safe.  That smell, I know that smell.  She stops struggling, to let the person, or thing, do what it needs to do.  Once the person or thing completes the spell, Breanne falls asleep, not knowing that her dream will have a different ending.

==========

Breanne wakes up the next day much later than usual, nearly midday.  After preparing herself for the day, she checks on Aegle, to see how she is progressing.  Aegle is sitting on her bed, waiting for Breanne to arrive.

“Your leader say you sleep well now.  I wait for you to walk with me.”

“I’m going choo remove da thitches.”  Breanne pulls a small pair of scissors to cut the stitches with from her pocket.  After doing so, she gives Aegle a sponge bath to prepare her new friend for departure.  “I dink you ready choo go now.  I hope you make itch home.  Come back thoon choo thay hi.”  Breanne starts to cry, thinking she will not see Aegle again.  Aegle, however, has other plans.  Now that the stitches are removed, she can repay the kindness given to her by someone who understands what it means to be hurt and bound.

Breanne completed the negotiations with the people of Aireon, and Alarica was truly impressed.  In all of Avalon’s history had a consors ever discussed or negotiated a treaty. Breanne would be documented as the first to ever have done so.  The negotiations were not an easy task with the language barrier, but leave it up to Breanne to think of a way to surpass that barrier and complete the negotiations.

That left Alarica wondering what other miracle her consors was capable of doing.

 

The end

 

Thank you for reading my story.  More of the Triumvirate saga will be posted soon so stay tuned.