The Unfading Lands The Complete Set

by Katharine E Hamilton

  “I feel as if I am gazing upon the next generation of rulers.” Mosiah stated.

  “Aye.” King Anthony responded, inwardly upset with his children for not being present, but grateful that Alayna seemed in control of the room. As he expected, he caught sight of Isaac down the opposite corridor pulling a red-headed maiden into one of the rooms. He cleared his throat and diverted his gaze. “If you two gentlemen will excuse me, I believe I need to seek out my children.”

  King Eamon and Mosiah nodded as they watched King Anthony stalk over to a room across the hall.

  “I see our future queen has made use of the throne.” King Eamon complimented as he bowed before Alayna. Mosiah bowed as well. Alayna’s cheeks flushed. “You make a glorious sight, my dear.” Eamon complimented. “Boys.” He nodded at his two sons in greeting and then smiled at Elizabeth. “Princess Elizabeth.”

  Elizabeth curtsied in response.

  “How long has the queen been responding to petitions?” King Eamon asked as he stepped out of the way and stood next to Ryle.

  “Two hours.” Ryle explained.

  “Two hours?!” Mosiah and Eamon asked at the same time.

  “My sweet Princess,” King Eamon stepped forward. “You must not tire yourself dear. Normally petitions last half an hour at most.”

  “A half hour?” Alayna asked.

  He nodded.

  She waved her hand at the line of people in front of her. “But what about those in line?”

  “They are to wait until the following week, my Lady.”

  “That hardly seems fair.” Elizabeth stated.

  “Elizabeth.” Alayna scolded. “If King Eamon believes we are finished then we are finished.”

  “Oh no, Princess, if you wish to continue that is up to you. I just do not want you to tire out.”

  “I was unaware of the proper protocol on this matter, King Eamon. I did not realize it was a short-timed event. Thank you for letting me know.”

  “Do you wish to stop, my Princess?” Ryle asked.

  Alayna shook her head. “No, I shall visit with a couple more.”

  He smiled and nodded, waving the next person forward.

  King Eamon stepped out of the way and stood next to Clifton. “And you Cliff, where have you been off to?”

  “I was beating Princess Elizabeth in a horse race.”

  “Now wait a minute,” Elizabeth interrupted quietly and with a slight swat to Clifton’s arm. “That is untrue, my Lord. Your son cheated.”

  King Eamon’s brow rose as he glanced playfully at his son. “Is that so?”

  Clifton shifted on his feet under his father’s scrutiny. He heard Elizabeth giggle softly and caught her smug smile. King Eamon chuckled as well at the young couple’s interaction and lightly patted his son on the shoulder. He smiled at Elizabeth and then saw that Clifton held her gaze. The two young ones held a secret, he could tell. Of what, he did not know, nor did he care. He smiled as he made a mental note to address Granton about a proposal and a note to address his son about his feelings.

  King Granton stood on the second landing overlooking the grand hall watching as his daughter took his role in front of the petitioners. She handled them with love and grace and he smiled proudly. He watched as Prince Ryle did her bidding and protected her with ease. The young man would be a fine Captain if he were not in line to take his father’s throne, Granton thought. His gaze then travelled to Elizabeth and Clifton, their backs to him as they stood side by side. He noticed several small glances bouncing back and forth between the two. His Lizzy. His heart warmed at the thought of her finding a connection with one of Eamon’s sons. He knew Prince Isaac would not be suitable. He had heard the rumors of the boy’s cavalier ways and thanked the stars for Elizabeth’s refusal of him. And as his thoughts travelled to the Western prince, Granton spotted the boy sneaking out of a doorway down the hall followed by a castle maid. He shook his head in disappointment. The lad would learn soon enough, he thought. Princess Melody kept to herself mostly within the chambers of King Anthony’s quarters. She rarely ventured out and only for meals or group activities. The young princess took after her mother, shy and timid. Granton knew her sweet spirit balanced out her brother’s pretentious one. Edward would have been good for Melody. His son had always been outgoing and courteous. Yet, part of him knew deep down that she would not have been good for Edward. Why had he fought him so? Why had he pushed his son’s desires away? He knew he was to blame for Edward’s crossing of the border. That is one reason he granted Elizabeth’s request for more time before she married so eagerly. He could not bear it if she crossed the boundary. He would give her all the time she needed, let her marry whomever she pleased… just as long as she stayed in the Realm. It took Edward’s crossing to teach him that. His children’s happiness mattered, as much to them, as to him. His gaze fell upon Alayna as she finally stood and the villagers were being escorted out of the castle. She immediately sought Prince Ryle’s arm as he escorted her away from the throne. A match they would make, yet he was not quite sure Alayna had her heart set upon romance or that Ryle had his sights set on being King, whether of his father’s kingdom or the Realm. Neither of his daughters sought out suitors like many women did. He loved that about them. They were strong, opinionated, and fierce when need be. He was pleased with their appearances at the Council meeting. He witnessed a new side to each of them. Sides that pleased him greatly.

  Elizabeth turned and spotted him at the top of the landing upon her exit. She waved and smiled. He returned it. Prince Clifton leaned towards her and whispered in her ear, causing his daughter to laugh and nod as she linked her arm with his. Yes, he would do anything for his sweet daughters. Anything.

  ∞

  The next morning was dreary and wet. Elizabeth watched the rain pour against the stained-glass windows of her bedchamber as she waited for Mary to finish braiding her hair. She loved rain, but not when it trapped her indoors. She had hoped to write Edward a letter and see if he had written one for her. She had so much to tell him. She leaned forward resting her elbow on her vanity with her chin in her hand. Mary lightly tugged her hair to pull her back to a proper sitting position so she could continue braiding.

  “You do not seem like yourself this morning, my Lady.” Mary commented as she weaved strands of hair in and out.

  Sighing, Elizabeth caught Mary’s worried gaze in the mirror. A small smile of gratefulness tugged at her lips as she watched her precious attendant style her hair. “I am fine Mary. I am just trying not to allow the weather to dampen my spirits. I guess I am failing.”

  “It must rain for the grass to stay green and the trees so pristine,” Elizabeth joined her as they recited the small poem together. They ended on a smile as Elizabeth sighed again thinking of riding through the green meadows of the Realm with Clifton.

  “Ah, see a smile.” Mary pointed out with a satisfied grin.

  Elizabeth rolled her eyes playfully and then spun around on her stool. Mary gasped, her fingers slipping from the braid and part of it unraveling. “Miss Elizabeth, I was not finished.”

  “Mary.” Elizabeth stated completely ignoring Mary’s concern. “May I tell you a secret?”

  Mary’s eyes widened in surprise. “You may tell me anything, my Princess.”

  “I know, and I need to tell someone.” Elizabeth squealed in delight as she grabbed Mary’s hands. “I showed Prince Clifton my meeting place with Edward.”

  Mary’s jaw dropped, and she remained speechless as Elizabeth continued.

  “He met Edward. He saw my arena. We even battled blades for a bit. And then…” Her voice trailed off as her blue eyes became dreamy and her smile widened. “He kissed me.”

  Mary’s shock broke into a fresh smile. “You trust him with these secrets? With your heart?”

  “Yes, the funny thing is, I do.” Elizabeth added and turned back around so Mary could repair her braid. She continued watching Mary as she spoke. “It took him a few minutes to understand, but he came
around.” Elizabeth explained. “Oh Mary, he is such an amazing man.”

  “Have you spoken to Princess Alayna of this matter?”

  “No. Only you. I’m not sure what Alayna would say to be honest, and I fear her disappointment. I’m so happy about it I do not wish for someone else not to be. I believe that might just crush my spirit.”

  “Does Prince Edward approve of Prince Clifton knowing?” Mary asked.

  “Yes, in fact we all three find it extremely helpful in planning our strategies against the Lands. I now have an ally, Mary. An ally with influence. Prince Clifton can take the news from Edward and place it on the Council table with more authority than I.” Mary tied the end of Elizabeth’s braid with a small white ribbon and then helped her stand, her pale, yellow dress making her dark hair and blue eyes shine. “Do I look alright?” Elizabeth smoothed her hands over the front of her dress and fingered a hand over her braid.

  “You look beautiful, milady. As always. Now come, let’s take you to breakfast. Perhaps there will be an open seat next to Prince Clifton.” Elizabeth smiled as she exited and made her way to the dining hall. Mary announced her, and she rounded the corner to find only King Eamon at the table.

  “Ah, good morning Princess. It would seem the weather has infiltrated the castle and set everyone’s moods to brooding, except for you and me.” He waved a hand at the chair across from him. She sat and flashed him a polite smile. The man was kind and she found herself searching every inch of his face to see what parts of him he shared with his son.

  “Good morning, King Eamon. I trust you slept well?”

  “Yes indeed. I find storms relax me.” He grinned as he took a sip of his water. “And you, Princess? You look absolutely stunning this morning.”

  She blushed. “Thank you, my Lord. I did sleep well.” She unfolded her napkin and placed it in her lap as Renee brought her a plate of food. “I apologize for my father and sister not joining us.” Elizabeth stated.

  King Eamon waved the apology away swiftly. “Granton needs his rest and your sister and Ryle set out a half hour ago.”

  Elizabeth’s eyes widened in surprise. “Where did they go?”

  “Your sister wished to accompany a woman and her child back to the village. Apparently, the castle has been housing the sick child. Ryle went as her guard.”

  Elizabeth smiled. Yes, she bet Ryle would not pass up the chance to be near her sister.

  “Did I say something amusing?” King Eamon asked as he studied her.

  “Oh, no my Lord. I was just thinking of how kind it is that Prince Ryle accompanied my sister.”

  “Yes, he seems to be quite attentive to your sister.”

  “You think so too?” Elizabeth blurted out in pleasure.

  The king chuckled. “Oh, my dear, of course he is. She is the future Queen of the Realm.”

  Deflated, Elizabeth shrank back in her chair. She had hoped Ryle was attentive due to feelings of a more amorous nature, not duty.

  “You seem upset.” King Eamon stated as he took a bite of bread.

  “Not at all, my Lord. I guess I am allowing the weather to affect my mood as well.”

  “It is hard not to sometimes.” He added.

  “Has Prince Clifton eaten breakfast yet?” Elizabeth asked.

  The king could not hide his smile at her question. “No, he has not. I’m afraid Cliff woke up with a sort of headache this morning. He remains in our chambers.”

  “Oh, I am sorry to hear that. Please give him my best.”

  “I will, Princess. I will. You and Cliff seem to be good friends.” Eamon fished for a reaction and was pleased when a slight tinge of pink stained the young Princess’ cheeks.

  “I guess you could say we are. Your son is a good man, my Lord. Both of your sons are good men.”

  Eamon sat up proudly. “I believe so too. They continually make me proud. Their mother would be proud too.”

  “I am sorry to hear of the queen’s death, my Lord. Though I never met her, my father spoke very highly of her.”

  “Aye, she was wonderful. Full of spark that one. She had Cliff’s green eyes and Ryle’s dark hair, a beauty. She won my heart immediately.”

  Elizabeth grinned as she listened to the love in the king’s voice. “She sounds most lovely.” Elizabeth added.

  “Aye, she was indeed. I hope one day my sons will find the same happiness.” He hinted, noting the way Elizabeth’s eyes avoided his. He watched her carefully as she sliced the ham upon her plate. “I have been meaning to tell you that your appearance at the Council meeting was quite refreshing.”

  That had her blue eyes popping up from her plate. He smiled. “Thank you, King Eamon.”

  “I find your ‘level head’ quite an asset, as well as your outspokenness.”

  Elizabeth simply stared at him in surprise making him chuckle.

  “I see that my comment surprises you.”

  Elizabeth nodded. “Yes, I must say it does. I feared my presence was unwelcome and my opinions—”

  “Unwarranted?” He finished for her.

  “Why yes, that is exactly the way I felt, at the beginning. It was not until after the meeting my sister and I discussed the matter more thoroughly.”

  “Ah, Princess Alayna will be a wonderful queen.”

  “Agreed.” Elizabeth faithfully responded.

  Eamon relaxed against the back of his chair and folded his napkin onto his plate. Renee swiftly cleared it and refilled his water goblet. “Please do not feel the need to stay with me, my Lord.” Elizabeth granted. “I am accustomed to breakfast alone, it will not hurt my feelings.”

  He tilted his head at that response and shook his head. “It is no bother, Princess. I find your company quite invigorating on a morning such as this. Plus, I wish to enquire more of you.”

  “Oh?” Elizabeth’s brows rose, and she waved a hand for him to continue.

  “Well, since we are speaking so freely I wish to ask you your thoughts on the guard. Your father said you wished to be more involved. I wondered what made you wish to be informed?”

  Elizabeth finished her meal and politely placed her napkin on the table. She glanced at King Eamon’s soft gaze and kind face. Smiling, she softly sighed. “May I speak freely?”

  “Of course.” He invited.

  “I have always been drawn to the guard, my Lord, ever since I was a little girl. My brother used to take me to the armory and explain every weapon and every piece of armor in detail.” A small smile tugged at her lips at the memories of Edward and her sneaking into the armory. “Edward and I were inseparable. Alayna never joined us for fear of the consequences from our father, but Edward and I could not help ourselves. We found it all fascinating and exciting. Knights and guards— Captain Mosiah patiently tolerated us following him around like leeches.”

  King Eamon chuckled and then took a sip of his water.

  Elizabeth continued. “I loved watching the guards practice in the arena. The swift flash of a blade, the sound it makes slicing through the air. The power in a single stroke captivated me. I often thought, what would it be like to hold that power in your hands? To feel brave and courageous?”

  “Not all men that fight are brave, milady.” King Eamon replied softly.

  “Yes, I know that now.” Elizabeth countered. “But my feelings are the same. I feel brave when I clasp my sword. I feel invincible when I strike a blow.”

  “When you strike a blow?” Eamon’s eyebrows rose in curiosity at the Princess’s candid slip of her hidden talent.

  Flushing, Elizabeth realized honesty would be her best tactic with the king. “Yes. I am no stranger to a sword, my Lord. Though my father and sister do not know, I am quite a practiced swordsman.”

  “Interesting.” He rubbed his bearded chin as she continued.

  “I tell you this in confidence, though I don’t quite care if you share it with my father at this point. Your son, Prince Clifton, knows of my talent. In fact, he has been helping me fine tune it.”


  “Has he now?” King Eamon asked with a small tilt to his lips.

  She nodded. “He is a good teacher, my Lord.”

  “He has been taught well. Cliff has always loved the sword, not as much as Ryle, but he loves it all the same.”

  They heard a shuffle and Prince Clifton emerged at the edge of the dining hall. “Morning.” He greeted as he slipped into the seat next to his father. Elizabeth softly smiled at him as she noted the light shadow of a beard forming along his jaw.

  “Morning, Cliff.” His father affectionately wrapped an arm over his shoulders and squeezed him in a hug before allowing him to eat. “Headache gone?”

  “Yes, thankfully. I feared having to stay locked in the chambers all day.”

  “Yes, you most certainly would have been a bear if that had happened.” His father teased as his son took a sip of water.

  “You are looking lovely this morning, Princess Elizabeth.” Clifton complimented stiffly in front of his father making the older gentleman laugh heartily. Clifton blushed and turned to his father with a fierce gaze.

  “Don’t look at me like that, Cliff. Miss Elizabeth and I were just discussing you.”

  “Is that so?” Clifton turned to Elizabeth as his father continued.

  “Yes. She tells me you have been teaching her the sword.”

  Clifton’s eyes widened as he looked to her again. She nodded and shrugged her shoulders.

  “Just one lesson thus far.”

  “Ah. I see.” Eamon replied. “I trust you to be careful when teaching the Princess.”

  “Yes, Father.”

  “Well, now that you have risen to greet the day, I think I will go make myself busy.” King Eamon stood and then bowed towards Elizabeth. “My dear Princess, it was an extreme pleasure speaking with you this morning.”