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