Castle Walls

by D. Jordan Redhawk

  "Your Royal Highness?"

  Turning, the Invader found the captain of his Royal Guard waiting respectfully. "Yes, Semelo?"

  Having spent many years in the Invader's employ, two as captain, Semelo appeared to lack the usual nervousness in his ruler's presence. "The lords are requesting an audience with you, Sire," he said, stepping forward. "I believe they're interested in knowing when we'll be leaving for the city."

  "Led by Duke Agnar, no doubt." At the captain's nod, the Invader smiled. "Have the herald make an announcement. We'll be here until sunrise. I want the guard looking their best - weapons sharp, armor polished." Looking to the distant city, he said, "Tomorrow's procession will be spectacular."

  "Aye, Sire," Semelo nodded, bowing and backing away.

  Alone once more, the Invader murmured, "We'll see if I can flush you out, Princess. You and your… benefactor."

  With a sneer of distaste, Dominic watched the Invader's arrival from behind a curtain. Having ensconced himself at an inn two nights prior, he wanted to be on the Invader's route into the city. The owner of the establishment was a member of the rebellion and more than willing to give up the price of a room for a good cause.

  Eyes lighting on the hated figure, Dominic's face twisted further. Bastard!

  In a display of confidence, the Invader rode at the head of his procession without visible armor. He was clad in breeches and tunic of a light beige, his deep red cloak thrown back from his shoulders. The only jewelry on his person were those of his office - signet ring, a thick chain about his neck and a gold circlet on his head. He waved at the cheering crowd, his smile belying the well-worn sword belt at his waist.

  It wasn't lost on Dominic that the city guard were glaring at the masses, they're threat evident. Aye, applaud the bastard who killed your friends and family or join them in death. Regardless of the hypocrisy, the former aide felt a grudging respect for the Invader's tactics. If it weren't for Liam...these fools wouldn't need the prodding. They'd blithely go about their lives in subservience to an usurper.

  The Invader past, Dominic let the curtain return to its place, not interested in the courtiers and servants. He had the crowd peppered with contacts - their reports of strength and numbers would be reported before the Invader even arrived at the castle.

  "I should go."

  Dominic turned to his guest, almost surprised to find him there. "Yes. Get there before him. Don't cause suspicion and report to me this time tomorrow." The aide smiled. "The Invader will be on his guard so be careful in the palace."

  Rising, the man straightened the royal livery he wore. "Aye, I will." He paused in thought. "I may not be able to get away tomorrow."

  "I understand. If I don't see you in three days, we go underground."

  Nothing further was said between them as the spy left the room.

  Dominic went to a table, ignoring the tray of food. He poured another glass of wine and sipped thoughtfully. I'm very glad the royal bratling agreed to remain in our rooms. Just what we need is for him to be found wandering the streets during this festival. Considering Prince Liam had already done such a thing by being in the city to begin with, the aide frowned. Best I go check on him.

  Grabbing up his cloak, Dominic left the room, locking the door behind him.

  Chapter 11

  The weather was unseasonably warm. Katerin wiped sweat from her neck with a kerchief, the wagon rocking gently around her. In the interest of safety, the troupe had both her and Ilia remain inside their respective abodes while they traveled through the city. She perched on the bed, knowing that Ros was directly above her, driving the team.

  Entry into the city had been easier than expected with a rebellion in full bloom. In anticipation, Katerin dressed in rags that stank of soot from the fire pits. Her short hair was disheveled and dark streaks smudged her skin. As expected, the gate guards insisted on seeing the wagons' contents and the princess went into her simpleton routine. Whether it worked due to her improved acting or the fact the guards were mortally busy with the large influx into the city was debatable. In either case, they were waved through without incident.

  Beyond the walls, Katerin could hear the familiar noises of a large city. That it was her city only made the lump in her throat more solid and she was uncertain whether she should mourn or scream. Over the months, the brunette had entertained herself with dreams - her family intact, the Invader never there and life continuing as it had before. Since becoming involved with Ros, however, those fancies had faded. If things hadn't gone as they had, she'd never have met the circus owner, never have understood the love of two women, the love of Ros.

  But, gods, the price! she thought with a shake. Using the kerchief, she dabbed at her eyes. A headache niggled at the back of her neck and Katerin sat up, rolling her shoulders to loosen the muscles. "Enough of that," she murmured. "Pity will get you nowhere." Moving to the edge of the bed, she leaned closer to the shutters, cracking one open to see outside.

  The street here wasn't as crowded now that they'd passed through the gate. There were far more people that Katerin had seen in one place in some time, however. Ros had smartly avoided the market, knowing they'd be slowed considerably. Not having spent much time in the city proper, the princess wasn't sure where they were in relation to the castle and Firemount Field. The two were side by side, the field used frequently for outdoor parties and tournaments during her father's reign.

  Katerin closed the shutter as the wagon drew alongside the field, guards prominently stationed on the perimeter. After a few moments, they lumbered to a stop and she could hear Ros climbing down the side. Her lover had an amiable chat with the guards, showing her invitation and receiving directions to their area. The brunette heaved a sigh when no further search was made. Her lover returned to the driver's seat and she felt the lurch of movement.

  Noises outside indicated a different population. Katerin could hear music - pipes, drums, lutes - and the grunts and shouts unique to those practicing an entertainer's profession. Soon, the wagon stopped and Ros dismounted once more. Her voice rose as she ordered the rest of the troupe to their places.

  Several moments later, the wagon door opened. "I think it's safe for you to come out," Ros said. "We're centrally located in the field and the guard is remaining on the outskirts."

  With a flutter of nerves, Katerin nodded. Hearing the troupe's familiar sounds as they set up camp eased her. She came forward, taking her lover's hand and stepping out of the wagon.

  The racket became much louder. Immediately surrounding them, their troupe set camp. As Katerin slowly turned, she could see another circus troupe in a practice session, three minstrels singing to the accompaniment of four musicians and a menagerie of exotic looking animals.

  "So many!" she blurted, eyes wide.

  Ros chuckled, draping her arm across the smaller woman's shoulders. "Aye, and more where these came from. I daresay the Invader hired acts from as far away as the Contrin Seas."

  Katerin shook her head in amazement. Even Father never went to such expense.

  "I'm required to check in the registrar's," the blonde said. She squeezed her lover. "Will you be all right?"

  Tinting at the evident concern, Katerin ducked her head with a smile. "I'll be fine, Ros. Do what needs doing." She looked about at her friends. "I've plenty of people to keep an eye on me."

  Seeming reluctant, Ros lingered a moment longer. "Well then," she finally said. "Best get on with it. I'll be back as soon as may be."

  The brunette smiled, gently slipping away. "I'll see how Em and Phizo are doing," she said. "They could probably use the assistance."

  "Aye." Ros watched her lover walk away. Have I made the right decision, bringing her here? Worried didn't even begin to explain the circus owner's state of mind. She truly felt, however, that there was no other option. To not follow the Invader's directive would cripple the troupe's route. And to leave her behind would cripple me...

  Sighing, the blonde shook herself from her reverie. "
Let's get cracking. Two days and we'll be gone." She left the troupe, heading for the registrar's.

  From the window, the Invader regarded Firemount Field with satisfaction. It was a jumble of activity with more entertainers arriving every hour. The tourney grounds proper had been prepared with new fencing and paint, the stands repaired in preparation for an audience. To one side were the tents of those who wished to win a hefty purse at the upcoming tournament.

  He saw a tall blonde woman in men's clothing approach the registrar and shook his head. A woman running an entertainment troupe? Noting the sword and her obvious comfort with it, he thought, Probably a sapphist to boot. Pity. She's beautiful.

  A scratching at the door interrupted his thoughts and he turned away, picking up his forgotten glass of wine. "Come in."

  Semelo opened the door and bowed before entering. "Your Majesty," he said. "I believe we've found a spy for the rebellion."

  Instantly alert, the Invader set his glass on a nearby table, waving the man into the room. "Who and how?"

  Closing the door behind him, the captain stepped closer. "His name is Travis. He was hired last summer in the kitchens. We caught him purely by accident." Semelo grimaced. "One of the ovens overheated and started a fire. The smoke wasn't acting properly - hovered near one wall rather than go for the windows and doors. When the fire was out, I investigated and found a passageway. He was inside, unconscious."

  The Invader scowled. "Where does this passage lead?"

  "Well, Sire, we had reports that your drawing room was on fire, but no flames were found. I can assume that is where it ends." Semelo nodded. "I've already sent a squad into the kitchen passageway. I've another in your drawing room. If there's anyone between, we'll flush him out."

  "Where is the spy?"

  "The dungeons, Your Majesty, awaiting an…audience with you."

  The Invader grinned. "You know me well, Semelo." He gestured toward the door, stopping to pick up a pair of gloves before following. "Let's go see our little friend, shall we?"

  As expected, the guards surrounding the field were to keep the entertainers in rather than the populace out. Though everyone enjoyed them, most troupes were considered potentially dangerous - traveling warrens of immoral people who would think nothing of stealing the food from a working man's table. Only scoundrels and rogues could thrive on the instable lifestyle.

  With little effort, Dominic was able to gain entrance. Where else can I loiter about near the castle without question? He wore peasant clothes, dusty and brown, appearing as one of many visitors who found the lure of entertainers stronger than common sense. Drifting along, he watched the castle, ignoring jugglers, contortionists and musicians.

  The soldiers on the wall had been doubled since the Invader's arrival which was to be expected. Dominic was certain the usurper was here because of the rebellion. It was impossible to hide a revolution of such magnitude; a handful of cells had been rousted over the last year and there was no doubt rumor fairly flew to the Invader's ears. Fortunately none that were vital.

  Two boys raced past the aide, breathless as they explored, and he absently checked his belt pouch. Finding it unmolested, Dominic continued wandering.

  Reports coming in indicated that the Invader brought more courtiers than army. All counts totaled roughly twelve hundred soldiers in and around the city not including the Royal Guard. With proper planning, the Invader will be dead and Liam king before the end of this 'celebration.' All he needed now was Travis' report from inside.

  Time was the essence. Liam was becoming an increasing problem, insisting the rebellion push through before everything was in place. So far, the older and wiser leaders had headed the young hotblood off but it was anyone's guess how long it would last. If the royal bratling has a mind to start early, we don't have the means to stop him.

  Shaking his head, Dominic realized he was woolgathering, staring at a circus troupe as they rehearsed. There was no more information to be had here and he turned to leave. The sound of footsteps behind him didn't register until he intercepted a running person, the pair crashing into each other.

  Almost falling, Dominic grabbed the person's thin shoulders to keep his balance. "Watch where you're going, fool," he growled.

  "My apologies, sir," a woman's voice answered. "Are you all right?"

  "No thanks to you," the aide said, finally looking at the person. Dominic's eyes widened and he clutched the woman in his grasp, giving her a shake. "Your Highness?" he hissed.

  Heart in her throat, Katerin shook her head. "You mistake me for someone else, sir." He looks familiar. A courtier of father's? She desperately cast about with her eyes but none of her friends were near.

  Remembering where he was, Dominic quickly looked around before bodily dragging the princess to the side of a wagon. "Are you mad?" he demanded in a whisper. "What on earth are you doing here?"

  "You're hurting me," Katerin said. His hands dropped as if they burned. I think his name's Dominic, isn't it? "I don't know who you think I am, but you're wrong." Of all the people to find me, it has to be a minor courtier turned peasant.

  Leaning forward with menace, Dominic said, "You may be able to fool these...people, princess, but I know who you are."

  Katerin realized he wasn't going to accept her innocence. Deal with things now; Ros will know what to do after. "My title isn't necessary, sir. I'm known as Katerin these days."

  Triumphant, it was all Dominic could do to not crow aloud. He stepped back, looking her over. Katerin wore rags that were filthier than his, dirt smudging her skin and hair mussed. She's still the image of her mother, he thought, refusing to sneer. "I'm so glad to see you survived!" he said. "We'd heard you escaped the Invader's wrath that night."

  We? Dear gods, could he be involved in this rebellion? "Yes. It wasn't easy. I hid during the day and traveled at night until I was out of the kingdom."

  "Alone?" Not bloody likely.

  The brunette nodded. "Yes. A few weeks later I found the troupe and I've been with them ever since." If he is with the rebellion... "I've heard rumor that one of my brothers survived as well?"

  Dominic's smile faded. "No, Your Highness. As far as I know, no one but you lived through that night."

  "Don't call me that," Katerin said absently, feeling a bit of her heart wither with death of hope. "Princess Sabine didn't live through that night...Dominic, isn't it?"

  "Aye," he answered, resorting to a nod of his head rather than a bow. "Are you sure, lady? The throne…" Her dark eyes became intent and Dominic found himself snared by them. Just like her mother.

  "Are you still loyal to my father?" Katerin demanded.

  Appearing properly horrified at the question, Dominic said, "Of course, Your...I mean, Katerin."

  "Then everyone in the Dulce royal bloodline is dead. Is that understood, Dominic?"

  The aide studied Katerin for long moments. "Aye. Everyone." So. Not interested in regaining the throne, eh? While that could be a blessing, why?

  "Kat!"

  Dominic turned to see a tall blonde approach, eying him suspiciously.

  "Are you all right?" the newcomer asked Katerin, her gaze never leaving the man.

  Blushing, the brunette nodded, stepping into a hug. "Yes, I'm fine," she said, ignoring Dominic's raised brow.

  "Can I help you?" Ros asked the stranger, her tone anything but helpful.

  "No, thank you. The lady and I ran into one another. I just stopped to be certain she was well." That's it then? Found yourself a woman lover?

  Ros glanced quickly at the smaller woman. "She appears to be unharmed, thank you. However, we have rehearsal," she hinted.

  Taking his cue, Dominic nodded. "Of course. My apologies for the interruption." To Katerin, he said, "Be careful, young lady. You never know whom you'll run into."

  "I understand," the brunette said.

  With a bow, Dominic scurried away, mind spinning.

  Watching, Ros asked, "Who is he?"

  "I'm not sure," Katerin said
. "Either a minor court official or lord."

  "He recognized you," the circus owner stated with surety. She turned to her lover. "Didn't he?"

  Swallowing, Katerin dropped her gaze and nodded. "Yes, he did." The blonde's body stiffened and she continued. "I think things will be fine. Our presentation is tomorrow afternoon - I doubt Dominic will have time to do anything before then even if he's a mind to."

  Ros said, "Aye, there's the rub. Will he have a mind to?" Her eyes searched the immediate area, alert for guards appearing out of nowhere to collect Katerin for the Invader's axe. "We have to get you out of here. I'll have Martim and Tomas go with you-"

  "No."

  Narrowing her eyes, Ros glared at the brunette. "We must get you away," she said, apparently hoping repetition would lead to agreement. "If you were recognized by him, you could be by any number of others."

  Katerin shook her head. "I don't think so. The only reason he did was because we ran into one another." Raising her hands and stepping away, the princess continued, "Where will I go…outside the gates? You recall the patrols along the roads as much as I. Getting into the city was easy. Getting out, ahead of schedule I might add, will not. We've got guards here at the field, guards at the city gates and guards on patrol that are all looking for an elusive prince that doesn't exist. It would be less safe than where I am now."

  "Kat…"

  The brunette, her royal dander up, shook her head. "No, Ros. Growling at me won't change a thing. Dominic isn't in the employ of the Invader - if he were, do you think he'd dress like a peasant? He's got something to do with the rebellion, I'm sure of it. If he were to turn me in, it would decimate any faction trying to usurp the Invader." Sighing, Katerin said, "If he were to turn me in, do you think we'd get through the field? If anything, Dominic will be scheming how to get me into the rebellion. He has only a trumped up figurehead. It would be idiocy to give me over when he could use me to his advantage. I'm safe for the moment. Though we leave as soon as the show is over."