Whispers of a Throne

by Victoria Pinder

  A loud whistle blew in the air and my body tightened in fear. What was that noise?

  "It's good to know she was kind," Joseph said. "Don't be afraid, boy."

  I swallowed. I wasn't comforted. We were going toward more poisoned inventions. Thor took too many risks with his health. We shouldn't be anywhere near here. The metallic boxes were big and on wheels. The knights all stepped inside it like it was fine. Joseph must have seen my hesitation as he asked, "Have you never seen a train, boy?"

  I lowered my head. Perhaps this was something everyone accepted, but this seemed a relic from the old days. "No."

  Joseph shifted his water container and stepped closer to me. "It's much faster than walking. A few rebels have been running this to help people escaping London."

  "Are you sure they are safe?"

  My voice had gone higher. I froze and hoped I didn't give myself away.

  Joseph then whispered so only I could hear. "We'll be fine. The trains are set and ready to go. The ride will be easier on your arms. You can put the basket down and rest for a bit."

  And breathe in my own death. I licked my lips and kept that thought to myself. "What exactly is a train and where did it come from?"

  Joseph pointed to a small pathway into the metal box. I held my basket closer to me. "We found this train car closer to the ocean and had it brought here. A few of the old lines can be found throughout England. This one will bring us closer to London."

  "How does it work?"

  "It sits on these tracks and we speed along it. There's a fire that must stay lit that works as the engine and we roll faster. The knights need sleep tonight if they are to enter London tomorrow to save Morgana."

  No one should touched the trains. We should quarantined all relics and began again. London and the people of Avalon clung to a past that left the world burnt and poisoned. Why don't anyone think about living beyond tomorrow?

  I guess we all die eventually, but I didn't like to take unnecessary risks. Neither should Thor. No one should, but I held my breath and followed Joseph. "Great."

  As we stepped inside this railroad car, I saw that we were in a metal bucket. There were no seats, just open space. In the next cart, there were seats and doors that seemed to lead to tiny rooms. The walls in this one were yellow.

  Joseph went left, so I went right. Our conversation had gotten too personal. We had to separate before he figured out who I really am. Squires rushed toward knights to help them. I kept my head low, in case someone asked what knight I served. At the end of the car someone pointed to the basket I carried and said, "Put that over there."

  My muscles tensed, but I placed the basket among the others. My hands were white from restricted blood loss and I shook them to get the circulation going. Candles were lit on the walls and I stared at how everyone knew where to go.

  Everyone, but me. I walked into the next cart and noticed the metal that held us together. Every moment on this death trap brought me closer to contracting some horrible sickness. The stories of the long-ago fires had scared me all my life. This train that rode the metal tracks must also be from the poisoned lands. I clenched my stomach and followed some boys down a small corridor.

  No one noticed me. Which was better than being ignored.

  My hands fisted and at least the fireworks in my arms were from getting the blood flowing again. I'm fine. I turned around for a moment. Was someone staring at me? I continued down a corridor, unsure where I should go. Perhaps I should find Thor and ensure he was safe, but I had no idea how to get close without him seeing me.

  The train rocked as we sped. I couldn't hear if the horses neighed in the back car. All I heard was the screeching of the wheels as we raced along the metal track.

  What did young boys do on this thing?

  I stepped into one room and the knights took off their helmets and found spots to rest while the boys made their way forward to help specific knights. I slowed down, seeking Thor. If I could just get a glimpse of him, maybe I might sleep. Everyone else was trying.

  Thor stayed in my mind as I walked into the next room. He'd send me back to Avalon if he saw me. There was no way I'd ruin his mission to save his sister. I pulled the brim of my hat down the moment I saw Chaus in the distance. Goose bumps grew on my arms. Thor had to be close.

  Then a soldier stepped right behind me. "Boy, go in there."

  Busted. My mouth dried and I averted my gaze. "What?"

  He stepped to the side and pointed me into a private room with no window. He shoved candles in my hands as I was about to ask why. He clenched his jaw. "Go. Now."

  My leg muscles cramped. I wanted to run, but where could I go? He must want me to light these candles in the room. "Yes. Sir."

  As soon as I'd crossed the threshold, the soldier slammed the door shut. I fumbled with the candles and dropped them. This wasn't good. I closed my eyes.

  Thoughts of Thor stirred me to continue. I opened my eyes and stared into the room. In the middle was a decent sized bed. I had no idea how it fit on a train, but it took up most of the space.

  I knelt down to pick up the candles, but then Thor came out behind a narrow door, with a cloth draped around his waist. Everything about him was hard and muscular yet his skin seemed smooth.

  Blond men were less hairy than men like my father. My entire body shivered and I was tongue-tied. He came closer and heat coursed through me. I didn't know what to do.

  Thor stopped, knotting the cloth at his hip. "Come here."

  I lowered my head to get the candles. Even his bare feet had muscles. He'd know me. No one else would. I kept my head down though my body shook as I stood.

  His hand went to my chin and lifted my face as he lowered his. "Look at me."

  I gazed into his blue eyes and my body was warm though I had tears in my eyes. I was unable to move as he came closer. The smell of the forest and home overwhelmed me.

  He reached up and whipped my hat off my head. My brown hair tumbled down in the massive, messy braid. He knew. I couldn't speak. I swayed as the train swayed.

  He stepped back and covered his mouth. "Gwen."

  This was it. My heart raced. What would he do? "Thor."

  Chapter 14

  Heat invaded my senses though my stomach churned. Thor's lips pressed together as he stared at me. My heart thumped in my chest as I stared back. What could I say to him that made sense?

  I couldn't explain about my mother or London. The amulet upset him when he saw it, and he might not want me asking questions that have to do with Rex's insignia.

  Besides now, I had to have a different reason to stay as the fast kiss flashed in my mind and made my lips tingle. I came here because I wanted to be with you sounded false to my ears so he'd never believe it. More excuses rushed through me, like I am here to support you and be a good queen. No, that wouldn't work either.

  He towered over me. I swallowed, but said nothing. I tugged at the ill-fitting shirt over my probably ruined nightgown. I should say something. For once I couldn't say a word. Tears formed in my eyes as I held his cool gaze. I had to go to London. My chin trembled as I finally managed to say, "Hi."

  His eyes widened. "Hi? That's all you have to say?"

  Change the topic. The heat in my body grew as I stared at his chiseled muscles. I blinked and then licked my lips. "Can you put some clothes on?"

  Thor narrowed his eyes, and ran his hands through his wet hair. Every muscle on his body was hard and defined. "What?"

  My toes curled in my shoes, not that he'd see. The longer I stood in front of him the more light-headed I became. "You're naked. I can't think."

  He crossed his arms and stood taller, like he had the option to command me. Then his lips turned into a smile. "You're filthy, so we're even."

  My knees locked together, as if my body understood I'd topple over any moment. He was far too manly for me. I glanced backward, wishing I could escape. My face had to be red, I was so hot. "Please put on some clothes."

  He dropped his ar
ms to his sides. I dared to glance up at him and his gaze grew softer. He tugged the cloth around his waist, and I noticed how the skin on his abdomen was washboard cut into perfectly formed muscle. He truly was perfect. Nakedness somehow made him stronger.

  Then he blinked and said, "You win. Fine. Go get cleaned up in the bathroom. I'll get dressed and find you something to wear."

  "Thanks." The tingling in my chest remained as I rushed toward the bathroom door and accidentally brushed against his arm. His muscles on any part of me made my body weak. For a moment, neither of us moved. Goose bumps rose along the skin on my arms as my heart thumped. Heat rushed back to my face. I refused to look at him and went inside.

  "We're far from done," he said.

  The door clicked closed. Why could he mean that we're not done? I'd burst if he continued to touch me. My body pulsated and I could hardly breathe.

  Get clean. Nel had turned the water on from the silver handles. This tub had white circles, so I mimicked her actions until water came out of a silver spout. I stepped in and slid down, steam rising. The tension in my body dissipated and my breathing returned to normal.

  I rubbed my face in the water until my skin didn't feel grimy. Some of Nel's liquid soap that smelled of flowers would be perfect, though Thor's green bar had a clean smell to it.

  Thor banged on the door, and his voice thundered through me. "Are you done in there?"

  I swallowed. There had to be a way to stay in this water forever yet my throat was dry. "Can I say no?"

  His voice rumbled, and my body trembled. "Gwen, you don't want me to come in there."

  If he came in here, he'd see all of me. I'd melt into the water and disappear forever if he saw me naked.

  "I'm coming." My voice squeaked and I almost slipped as my foot hit the floor. I steadied myself against the wall and grabbed a white cloth from a shelf. This wasn't like me at all. I had to get myself together. I dried myself off and called through the door, "When did you get attitude? You are always so nice until now."

  He coughed and then repeated his command. "Come out, Gwen."

  My body trembled as I stayed behind the safety of the bathroom door. I cleared my voice so I didn't sound weak too. "No. I don't have anything clean to wear."

  I heard a few footsteps shuffle outside. "Open the door and check the handle. Get dressed and hurry. I want to know why you disobeyed me."

  He'd have to wait for that answer. I had no idea what I'd say. I reached out and grabbed the clothes. The material was soft as I unfolded the extra-large shirt.

  This must be his. I buried my nose into the soft fabric and breathed his familiar forest scent. His footsteps were heavy and right outside the door. My fingers shook and I threw the shirt on. His white linen shirt went down to my knees, and left my legs exposed. I had nothing for my thighs. Time was running out. He'd come in here if I didn't come out. He'd demand answers. I had under a minute to figure out what I'd say. I pressed my lips together and slipped out the door.

  Thor stood up from a corner chair as the outlines of trees and mountains passed by the window in a flash. His massive muscles blocked out those huge mountains.

  I swallowed as my knees grew weaker. I leaned against the wall to let the space between us act as a shield. He crossed his arms. "Why are you here?"

  My fingers slid against a panel on the wall as I lifted my head. "Don't be rude. It's not like you. You're the savior."

  He dropped his arms to his sides and his shoulders relaxed. My own arms followed what he did, and I took a deep breath. His blue eyes became a deeper color. "Gwen, I needed you to be safe."

  I glanced at his tall, muscular frame. He was gorgeous and perfect. Despite myself I trusted him, but I couldn't trust myself right now. If we married, he'd be true and honest, which was something. "That sounds more like you."

  His eyes narrowed. I clearly confused him. I confused myself. So much changed so fast, but one thing revolved in my mind. I had no idea how I'd fit in his world. Then he shook his head. "Why are you here?"

  My face, shoulders, and entire body steamed hotter than the water. I hoped I wasn't red, though I probably was. I couldn't tell him the truth about my mother and my amulet and risk making things worse over the amulet. I also couldn't say how he went under my skin. I'd die. I averted my gaze and said, "I couldn't stay at home and do nothing."

  His gaze narrowed and his hands clenched though stayed at his sides. "You were to stay safe. Now you've compromised the mission to get Morgana away from Rex."

  My shoulders dropped and my eyes misted. I didn't know what to say. I lifted my head and let words fall out of my mouth. "Despite what you think, I am here to help you, not hurt you."

  I'd never stop him from saving his sister. I had to know about my mother and her connection to London.

  His shoulders tensed. "Did you learn how to fight since dinner?"

  Ouch. His words pierced through me. I'd changed him. Thor was never that rude. Perhaps I should tell him my feelings, though my stomach clenched. I stared at the wall. "That feels so long ago."

  His words were like lightning shot through my heart as he said, "Just answer the question, please."

  This wasn't going my way. "No, I don't know how to fight."

  His hand tugged on the linen pants that matched the shirt I wore. "Then how can you help free her?"

  I rubbed my arms and then I deliberately put my hands at my sides. I had to convince him I was here to help not fight. "I have skills."

  He stared at me so hard that my stomach turned into mush. My shoulders fell as he asked, "Great. What?"

  I lifted my chin. I had value. "I'm smart."

  His eyes widened. "And?"

  I had no choice. I had to tell the truth. There were no other options. I sighed, but then I saw how he didn't move. If I didn't tell him right now, he'd never trust me. I gazed at him. "I couldn't stay in your fortress. My mother is connected to London and Caesar Rex though I don't know how or why. I have to know."

  His muscles flexed, but I think he was relaxing. "Why?"

  "Everyone in your castle thinks I'm out to sabotage your life long goal to overthrow Rex. They don't trust me and no one looks me in the face. Here, with you, I can find my answers. I promise I'll do everything I can to help you find your sister. I want to know about my family too."

  His shoulders slumped. I hope that meant he believed me. Then he shook his head again. "I should have spoken to you sooner about that."

  He'd not send me away. My heart soared. Right now that was all that mattered "So you understand why I came here?"

  He sat on the bed. "Gwen, not truly. How did you expect to search for any answers? You were dressed like a boy."

  Because I like being with you didn't come out of my mouth, neither did that I trusted he'd keep me safe. With him, I'm not alone.

  Then someone knocked outside and wanted his attention. Thor stood and turned away from me. The heat in my body lessened as I tried to hide in the corner of the room so that prying eyes wouldn't see.

  I cringed at the sound of boots stepping inside. My cheeks pricked as I turned to see Merlin. "Excuse me, Sire." Then his eyes widened as he noticed me, standing there in Thor's shirt. I smiled at his surprise, unsure what else to say to a man who always wore gray. Thor said to Merlin, "Wait out in the hall."

  Despite how I was half naked and in Thor's room, he bowed to me. "You changed..."

  Thor seemed to remember that I wore just his shirt and stepped in front of me, shielding me from view. Thor said in stern tones, "Wait in the hall. Guard the door."

  Merlin's voice became formal. "Yes, Your Majesty."

  Thor spun toward me and his Adam's apple bobbed. His blue eyes assessed me and my chest fluttered. I hoped somehow he was affected by my bare skin even a fraction of the amount I felt for him. "Gwen, we're not done with this conversation."

  I lifted my chin and held my arms at my sides so I'd not reach out and touch him. That wasn’t me. I stood still and nodded. "Fine."

>   The door closed and I left my place against the wall to collapse on the bed. If I closed my eyes, would my madness end? Probably not. I didn't know where else to go. The amulet around my neck was my only clue.

  In time, he'd have to get over his anger. I'd stay out of his way. Thor was my only friend. He'd see that he could trust me. I sat back up and stared out the window as we rolled through a burned city.

  He shouldn't risk his life by entering these poisoned places. If I married him, I'd insist that he and everyone in the kingdom give up the poisoned things of the past. In time, he'd listen to me on this.

  The charred buildings that reached the sky grew more solemn. Who knew when anyone last walked on the grounds outside the window? There was a sense of loss that clung to the shadows of everything. We shouldn't be here.

  Thor returned to the room. It seemed forever but was probably only a few minutes later since I last saw him. My body was cold now. As he entered, warmth flooded me again, but my fingers were still icicles.

  Thor closed the door and the vibrations that ricocheted from his actions sent a lightning rod through the room. "Gwen, you're being here puts everyone on this mission in danger."

  I sat on the bed to face him. "Then we won't tell anyone."

  He stepped closer and the tension in my muscles dissipated. "You haven't told me fully what you hope to find. I need to know if I can help you."

  I thought I'd been clear...I relaxed my shoulders as I stroked my throat. "I need to discover how my mother and Rex are connected."

  He moved his sword to a seat near the window. "My sister is my priority."

  We were so close. He was inches from the bed that I was now in. "That's fine. I came to find these answers with you and help in any way I could."

  Halfway from the window to the empty space of the bed he froze mid-step. "What?"

  I stood and came toward him. The moment I brushed his arms, my own skin tingled with awareness. I didn't let him go. "Thor, you're all I have now. I don't know what this means for the future. I don't know anything beyond I can't bear to think something might happen to you that I might have prevented."