by Frank David
“Must this all be decided now?” Juliana screamed. “The poor woman has just lost her child and all you can think is where to bury her? Allow Lena some time to mourn her loss. Allow her to grieve in private. Allow her to decide what is best for Victoria. To hell with etiquette. To hell with Imperial standards. This goes beyond what is right for the realm or its people. It is about what is right for a mother who just lost her child.”
Roderick walked over to his wife. She pulled away at his touch. He could sense her disdain over the discussion.
“If this were our child, would you be so quick to brush it away?” Juliana turned away from him, her face red with emotion. “You know you would not. You would do whatever you believe would comfort me.”
“You are right. I have been insensitive.” Roderick approached her once more. This time she turned into his embrace and silenced her sobs in his shoulder. “Lena, if you would like Victoria buried at Frostmoor, I am sure that can be arranged. If you would like, I can tell the people of Victoria’s death.”
Lena looked up at him, her eyes swollen and red. “I would like her buried in Hulsteria. Also, I would like to make the announcement to my people.” Roderick helped her stand. He noticed the blood soaking through her nightgown.
“Lena, you are bleeding. You may have injured yourself,” Roderick said taking her over to the bed. “Braynard!” he called out, hoping the man would not decide to ignore him. “Juliana, go fetch the doctor.”
Roderick lifted her nightgown. The flow of blood from the incision was thick. He worried she may bleed out. “Braynard!” he yelled once more. The man would not come. “He knew Daniella could not be trusted but he wished she was there with them now.”
“He has turned his back on the young woman,” the voice said from the doorway. “That is his way. She serves no purpose, so he does not come. He told you all he knew and has left it at that.”
Roderick watched as the woman approached them. Her raven hair seemed to sway as she moved, yet there was no breeze. Her gray eyes seemed devoid of emotion or caring. He was amazed at her height. She was at least six and a half feet, much taller than him.
“I am Diana, Imperial Prince Royal,” she said, her voice deep and weathered. “I know Braynard has spoken of me. I have come to offer my services. I wish to heal the Empress Consort, if you will allow.”
“Braynard said you cannot see what is happening to those who follow God,” Roderick quickly pointed out.
“He is correct, but I can hear the cries that go unanswered,” Diana said as she sat next to Lena. “She will be fine, if you allow me to heal her. I can also help to ease her emotional pain. Had he not been here, I could have saved the child.”
Roderick looked at Luna, not sure he trusted the woman.
“If you can heal my daughter and help her to get through this, please do what you must,” Luna said, tears rising in her eyes.
“Very well.” Diana raised one of her fingers. The nail appeared sharp as a knife. She ran the finger across the palm of her other hand. Her blood began to flow. She placed her bloody palm upon Lena’s wound. The three watched as the incision began to heal. When Diana removed her hand only a tiny scar remained. “She will rest now,” Diana said as she appeared to float from the bed. It was as if her movements were unnatural.
“What of her emotional pain?” Luna asked.
“My blood gives her the gift of visions. She has seen the children she will have in the future. She knows this pain will pass and be replaced with great joy.” Diana moved past Roderick.
“Is she now one of yours?” he asked, causing her to stop.
“Everything has its price,” the laugh echoed as the Goddess vanished.
“We may have just cursed her,” Roderick said staring at Lena lying in the bed. “I do not know that we can trust either of them.”
“She helped my daughter. Braynard ignored her,” Luna said through clenched teeth. “If she is evil than I suppose we have a warped sense of right and wrong.”
“Braynard seems to follow a single line of fate. It would seem Diana can see alternate futures. It is possible that Diana has just sealed Lena’s fate with Braynard. He does not seem to approve of those who turn to Diana,” Roderick said sitting next to Lena. “I wonder what he will do when he finds out what you have done.”
“It was my decision, not Lena’s. If Braynard does not approve, he can seek to punish me.” Luna turned, her face red, her hands in fists at her side. “If he wishes to come for me, I will not be an easy target.”
“Luna, Braynard is not an easy target, either. I do not think you would be able to avoid what he would bring against you.” Roderick’s face showed the despair. He remembered how easily Braynard stopped him from questioning him. “He was able to silence me from a distance, Luna. He never laid a hand on me but left me unconscious. Do not underestimate him.”
Lena sat up. Her face still flushed and eyes swollen. “The woman brought me great peace. My daughter was not meant to live. She was meant to be with Victor, not me. I believe I should address the people who are waiting to hear the news of their future ruler.” She turned to get out of the bed. Her legs betrayed her as she stood. She stumbled but caught herself from falling. “Someone retrieve my crown.” She ordered. A guard just outside the door hurried off to fulfill her request.
Luna rushed to her daughter’s side, offering support. “You do not have to do this now. Your people will continue to wait. You are in no condition to address them. You need to change.” Luna’s voice could not hide her pain.
“No. I need to do this. I will address them in what I wear. They will see the proof of the difficulties I suffered. Victoria is gone and will not return. The longer this is ignored the more difficult it will become.” She took small steps toward the door with her mother’s help. “I believe you and I should prepare to leave Xasha. When Joseph arrives, he will not need us here.”
“Lena, you do not have to leave so quickly.” Roderick took the task of helping the young woman, knowing the task was difficult for the older Imperial. “It may be wise for you to remain until after Joseph’s coronation.”
“I do not wish to be present at the celebration, cousin. I hope you can understand. The throne should be my daughter’s, not your nephew’s. If I were to remain, I fear I would not be up to the joy of the occasion.” She pushed him away as she continued to walk toward the balcony which overlooked the courtyard. She did not desire anyone’s assistance. She needed to appear strong before the people gathered.
The guard returned carrying Lena’s Imperial crown. It was placed upon her unkempt hair. She was a sight, but no one would mention her appearance.
The guards stood before the door. The light flooded the hall. Lena squinted as the brightness abused her eyes. She stepped forward into the light.
Cheers erupted as the crowd saw Lena approach the edge of the stone overhang. The cheers quickly changed to gasps as the blood on her gown caught the spectator’s eyes.
“My beloved Xashans. I come before you to announce the birth of Victoria, Empress of Xasha.” She fought the tears as she said her name. “Unfortunately, Victoria was not meant to sit upon the throne and serve her people. Shortly after her birth, my sweet daughter, your Empress, took her final breath. She has joined Emperor Victor.” The cries of the crowd brought her comfort as she struggled with the words. “Word has been sent to Hulsteria. Joseph, son of Empress Stelaphina and your own Imperial Prince Royal, Edmund, is now the Emperor of Xasha. I would hope you show him the love and support you have shown another Hulsterian. I have been honored to be your Empress Consort. You will all continue to be in my thoughts as I live out the remainder of my life in Hulsteria with my family.” She turned and returned to the palace as the cries of those below filled her ears.
“I am done.” The sound of her crown striking the stone floor echoed through the hall as she returned to her room.
Chapter Nine – Mary
Mary could not sit still as the women worked to pre
pare her for the party. She did not wish to attend but Lady Elizabeth had not given her any other option. She watched in the mirror as they pulled at her hair and applied the thick makeup to her face. As a commoner, makeup was not an accessory with which she was accustomed. She was impressed at how the years seemed to disappear as the makeup was applied. The small wrinkles around her eyes were suddenly less noticeable.
“Stand up, m’lady,” the woman, she assumed was in charge, ordered. She took Mary by the hand and led her to the middle of the room as the others gathered the garments she would wear. Her body was violated as they began layering on the material that would be her costume for the evening. Mary was not accustomed to such heavy dresses. She staggered as the women stepped back to admire their work. “You are perfect, m’lady.” The woman smiled at her handiwork.
Mary stared at the image in the mirror in front of her. She did not recognize the woman looking back. Was this to be her new life if the Empress did plan on granting her and Greg titles? Would she be comfortable having women doting over her daily?
The knock on the door took her gaze from her image. Greg entered. She had never seen him look so handsome. The suit he wore fit him perfectly, better than any he had ever owned. The women quickly left the room as Greg approached his wife.
“My god, Mary.” His eyes were wide as he stared. “It is like you have not aged since we wed.” He quickly embraced her. He kissed her with a passion the two had not shared in many years.
Mary turned from him after the kiss. “You do not look so bad yourself,” she laughed. “Could you get used to this, Greg?” She turned to face him again. “Do you think we could live like this?”
“I believe we can and apparently, we will,” he said, his eyes taking in her beauty. “If this is how you are to look every day, perhaps a new Morrison will come into this world.” He blushed as he said the words.
“Greg,” she scolded. “We are too old for additional children.” The makeup could not hide the color which was flooding her cheeks.
She looked down at the dress she wore. The color was above her current station and she worried she may be judged harshly for wearing such hues. Commoners were to wear basic colors: blacks, grays, browns, and dull blues. She was wearing deep gold, a color reserved for those of noble birth and position. The Empress had not yet bestowed any title. The law of colors was set generations ago and she was fearful of the consequences for the choice of garment.
“I should select a different dress,” she confessed to Greg as she moved from him. “The color is not appropriate.”
“The color is beautiful,” Greg reassured her. “You are the mother of the future Emperor Consort.”
“He is not Consort yet.” Mary paced the room. “I am in violation of the law. The women who dressed me selected what I would wear. Do you think Lady Elizabeth influenced their decision?”
“Lord Frederick and Lady Elizabeth have been very hospitable. I do not think she is trying to cause you any trouble.” He followed his wife as she continued to pace. “Calm down, Mary. This is a night of celebration. You must try to enjoy the feast our hosts have organized.”
A knock on the door stopped Mary’s movement. A guard entered. He paused as he looked at the couple. Mary was sure it was the dress.
“Imperial Grand Archduke, the younger, Harris Morrison.” The guard made the announcement as he stepped aside to allow Harris to enter.
“Mother,” he greeted Mary. “You look stunning.” He approached her and kissed her gently on the cheek. “Father you clean up rather nicely, as well.” He hugged Greg.
“Harris, I think I should change. This color is inappropriate.” Mary began walking the room again.
“The color is perfect,” Harris said, sensing his mother’s nerves. “You are the guests of honor tonight.”
“Law states I am not permitted to wear such colors.” She began twisting her hands around themselves. “I could be arrested.”
“You will not be arrested.” He grabbed her hand to stop the fidgeting. “We should join the others downstairs. The guests will be arriving soon. You should be there to greet them.” He offered his mother his arm to escort her.
Mary looked down into the hall. She saw Brett talking with Lady Samantha. She worried he was being charmed by the money and power of the Imperial Grand Archduke’s family. He did look happy which eased her fears a bit.
“Mary, that dress is perfect.” Elizabeth greeted Mary.
“I fear the color is wrong for my station, Your Grace.” Her voice shook as she spoke.
“You are among friends. There is no need to worry about colors. You look beautiful.” Frederick kissed her hand.
Elizabeth watched the interaction between her husband and Mary closely. She did not like having the woman in her home but knew she had no choice in the matter.
“Greg, you look stunning,” Elizabeth blushed. “What an attractive couple you are.” Elizabeth faked a smile.
“You look twenty years younger,” Brett added as he and Samantha joined the conversation.
“You do look amazing, Mary.” Samantha smiled. “You are missing something.” Samantha looked puzzled. “Jewelry!” she shouted. “Mother, you must have something Mary can wear. It would be criminal to not properly adorn this dress.”
“I do not need anything else, Lady Samantha.” A nervous smile appeared on her face.
“You are correct, Samantha. I will have someone find just the right pieces for her.” Elizabeth excused herself and went to talk to one of the maids.
“I wish you would not fuss over me.” Mary could feel herself begin to tremble. She had a bad feeling about the evening but kept her thoughts to herself. Greg and Brett seemed so happy and she did not want to spoil it for them. The smile on Harris’s face put her at ease.
“Mother, I do wish you would stop worrying so.” Harris placed his arm around her shoulder. “Enjoy the attention. It is soon to be your new life.” He kissed on her forehead.
Elizabeth returned with two of the house maids, each carrying jewels. “These are perfect,” she said as she took the diamond necklace from the first maid and clasped it around Mary’s neck. Next, she placed the matching earrings on each of Mary’s ears.
“Yes, mother, they are perfect,” Samantha quickly added with a smile. “I believe you will be the center of attention this evening, Mary.”
Mary blushed at the compliment. “Thank you, Lady Samantha. You are too kind. I am sure I will go unnoticed.”
“Nonsense,” Elizabeth interjected as she went and stood next to Frederick. “Everyone will be quite impressed.”
“We must prepare. Our guests will be arriving soon,” Frederick spoke. “Harris, as you are still heir, you are not to bow to any of our guests. You outrank them all. They will bow to you and you will acknowledge them with a simple nod of your head.” Frederick wanted to make sure everyone knew the protocol. “Mary, Greg, and Brett, as you have not been given any title, you will bow and curtsy before each of the guests and they in turn will greet you with a nod. Apart from King Maximilian, all guest should be addressed as ‘Your Grace’. The king of course is ‘Your Majesty’.”
“The coaches are approaching, Your Grace,” the butler informed Frederick.
Frederick put everyone in order. He was first in the receiving line followed by Elizabeth, Samantha, and Harris. Greg, Mary, and Brett were stationed at the end of the line.
Mary felt as though her knees would fail her, causing her to stumble to the floor. She had met many of the Imperials and Royals while working at the palace, but that was many years ago. They were always kind to her. She worried she may be perceived differently now that she was to become one of them.
Mary nervously greeted each of the dignitaries as they were presented to her. She remembered to curtesy and to not look any of them in the eyes. It was a sign of great disrespect for one of low birth to look in the face of a Royal or Imperial. It was a detail Frederick had forgotten to mention in his coaching. Thankfully, she ha
d taught Brett well and he knew the etiquette, so they did well during the presentation.
After all the guests had arrived, the banquet was served. It was a grand buffet. Elizabeth believed it would allow the guests to mingle and avoid the need to sit anyone next to the commoners.
Mary made a plate for herself and wandered the room. She was hoping to see a friendly face aside from those of her family and Frederick. These would become the people of her new social circle. She worried that she would never fit in. Most of the Imperials and Royals were born into their positions, thus they were more respected over those who recently received a title.
“Mother,” the voice cried out, catching her attention. She turned to see Harris approaching, his smile as wide as ever. “Why are you standing here alone? You should meet some of the guests.”
“I do not think any of them wish to speak to us,” Mary whispered to her son.
“What do you mean? You are the mother of the future Emperor Consort. These people will be dying to make your favor.” He grabbed her by the hand and led her off into the crowd.
They approached a young woman. She was talking with an older woman. Their backs were to Mary.
“Lady Courtney,” Harris said, getting the younger woman’s attention.
“Harris, is it not?” Courtney asked as she eyed Mary.
“Yes, we met just the other day while I was at your home with Stelaphina,” Harris ignored her attempt to be dismissive. “I would like to introduce you to my mother, Mary Morrison.”
“It is an honor to meet you, Your Grace,” Mary curtsied.
“Of course it is. This is my mother, Imperial Archduchess of Paisley, Lady Beverly Warlington.” Courtney gestured toward the older woman with whom she had been talking.
“Courtney, do not be so rude,” her mother scolded. “I apologize for my daughter’s attitude. Neither of us are fond of such events but it does not excuse ill manners.” Beverly turned her eyes toward Harris. “You are to be the future Emperor Consort?”
