Chapter 15: Chapter Fifteen

Muffled voices drifted through Elaine's consciousness as she opened her eyes. She blinked, honing her senses. She glanced around at the luscious sitting room. There were no windows but a huge fireplace crackled across from the couch. When she looked closer, the flames were blue and purple. She shook her head, wondering if her mind could be unstable.

Getting up, she straightened her outfit and hair in a mirror before following the voices.

Down a carpeted hallway, she passed several large bedrooms, a spacious bathroom and a flight of stairs spiraling down. Around a corner, she came upon a dining room. A polished, wooden table ran its length, surrounded by ten chairs.

At the far end, Mara, Gloria, Lucas, Antonius and Doctor Galenius sat talking. Two footmen flanked the doorway, serving the intimate group. They bowed as she passed through the doorway. She wasn’t used to being treated with such respect.

The conversation ceased when she had entered the room. All present rose and bowed though Antonius did so rather stiffly. She ignored his reluctance and smiled at the others.

“Have I interrupted something important?”

The doctor pulled out a chair for her. “No, my lady. In fact, you are perfectly on time. I was about to ask for your presence. Do sit down.”

Elaine nodded in thanks, feeling self-conscious. She sat on the edge of her seat. A footman placed a gold plate setting on the table. Bowls of food were set about her. The six dishes were alien but smelled good. She had never seen so much food in her life.

Once she had chosen a few tidbits, Doctor Galenius spoke again. “First of all, my lady, I must inform you that His Majesty has been moved to these apartments for recovery.”

Joy drove Elaine out of her chair. “He’s here? May I see him?”

Chuckling, he held his hand up. “In a minute. He will sleep for days now. I need to talk to you about his recovery going forward.”

Nervous energy twisted her stomach as she retook her seat. “Will he be okay?”

“He will regain full health eventually. In the meantime, he will require extensive observation and special care.”

She nodded solemnly. “I want to help as much as possible.”

“I have conducted multiple blood tests and performed Deep Tissue Phase Imagery or DTPI. This non-invasive technique lets medical staff view organs, brain tissue and identify bone fractures. His Majesty's left hand is broken and he was struck about the head many times. Two minor skull fractures were found behind his right ear.”

“Are they fatal?”

“In a regular Novian or human, the answer would be yes. But the Praetorian serum will heal him quickly.”

She released a breath. “And the drugs in his bloodstream?”

“It will only take a few days for the hallucinogens to leave his system. Unfortunately, their effects on his brain will take much longer to stop. Up to six months, in fact. DTPI exposed brain swelling from the drugs and head trauma. Nothing to worry about as long as he doesn’t exert himself.”

“What should be the plan moving forward?” Antonius asked, tension wrinkling his brow.

The doctor looked between each person at the table, five in all. “As His Majesty’s innermost circle, each of you must keep these details between us. He requires time and rest to recover. No politics or stressful decisions until I clear him for duty.” He turned to Elaine. “This is where you can do the most good, my lady. Stay by his side, cheer him when he awakes and use your judgment in deflecting unnecessary conversations with visitors.”

She appreciated the active role but Antonius was glaring at her. Irritation boiled up. They made bold eye contact until he looked away. At some point, she would have to figure out what was his issue. Right now, there was enough problems which demanded her attention.

“That about finishes our business for the time being. I must get back to my other patients.” The doctor rose, took Elaine’s hand and kissed it. “My lady, working together, we will see His Majesty through this crisis. Rest assured, this storm will pass.”

“Thank you, Doctor. I appreciate your calm during all of this.”

Once he had left the room, the two soldiers excused themselves as well. Elaine wolfed down five quick bites, wiped her mouth and got up.

“Which room has Gavin been taken to?”

“The fourth bedroom on the left,” Mara replied, standing too, “I’ll show you, if you like, my lady.”

“No, but thank you. I really need to be alone right now.”

Gloria smiled. “We understand. If you require help, just push the call button by the bed.”

Quickly, Elaine found the correct bedroom. Taking a shaky breath, she pushed the door open and went inside. The room was dimly lit save for a virtual fireplace flickering shadows upon the walls.

Gavin had been tucked into a wide canopy bed. Thick, red curtains hung down around him, gold tassels catching the cold firelight. He looked better than hours earlier but pain was still etched into his pale face.

Relief eased the tension in her body. She came to his side and perched on the bed next to his hip. She touched his dear face. Her lips found his forehead and down, brushing across his mouth.

Despite his vulnerable state, he was handsome and strong. His bare chest rose and fell as he breathed easily. She placed a hand over his heart, savoring its beat. Though his brain was under heavy attack, the rest of his body was healing.

Her fingers glided over a limp wing coming from under him. Tears choked her throat. Trimmed in gold, the white feathers looked ragged and unkempt. She couldn’t know if his wings had been damaged by a fight or whether feathers had been forcefully plucked. A shudder ripped across her shoulders.

Rushing to the bathroom, she threw up what little food she had eaten. The strain and incredible stress of the past several days overwhelmed her. It was hard to believe that a week ago, she had been living a peaceful, mountain life.

She missed the farm and the animals which had been her companions. Gavin had been so happy and at ease. His smile could light the darkest, winter night but she hadn’t seen it for awhile.

When she returned to his bedside, she eased down beside him. Her head rested next to his on the pillows. She drank his features, memorizing his face. Her heart ached to take away his pain and regain a quiet lifestyle.

That was not to be, she knew.

He would be crowned Emperor of an entire planet and she would be his Empress Consort. This dangerous reality was his life and, if she wanted him, hers as well. A heavy sadness wrapped its icy fingers around her soul. She had found impossible love but would pay a high price.

For the rest of their lives together, she must watch responsibility heaped upon her husband’s shoulders. Such a dismal, helpless future made her feel incredibly tired and discouraged. Restless, she rolled off the bed.

Pacing back and forth across the floor, she took note of the room. A bookcase lined one wall, filled with dozens of books in Italian and Latin. Her fingers perused the collections, running along each title. Choosing a historical volume, she found a comfortable nook in an armchair.

A golden clock on the mantle ticked away the hours. She read and checked on Gavin in turns. The couch served when fatigue pulled at her. He remained in a drug-induced slumber. The doctor and nurses came and went regularly. There wasn’t much change in the patient’s condition until the third day.

* * * * *

That afternoon, Elaine sat by Gavin’s side, struggling to focus on the book in her lap. The words blurred together. Her gaze fell upon her beloved’s face. Something was different about him. His eyebrows hitched together, his breath coming faster.

She covered his hand as he stirred. “Darling, are you awake? I’m right here, I haven’t left you.”

With great effort, he opened his eyes. They darted around before landing on her face. His fingers twitched in her grasp. His color returned somewhat. A weak smile rewarded her.

“You...are...alive. They told me that...you were dead.”

The pain in his eyes smote Elaine’s heart. “I know they did but that was a lie. I’ve been safe this entire time.”

“They said you had...been given to Darius' troops before being killed. I heard...your screams.”

“No, I was rescued by your Uncle Lucas right after you were taken away. Enough about me. How are you feeling?”

“Alright, I guess. I hurt all over.”

“Should I summon a nurse?” she asked, reaching for the call button next to the bed.

“No...I want to be alone with you? Lay with me...please?”

Not wanting to hurt him in anyway, she laid down carefully. He turned his head so their noses could touch. She held his hand, leaning over to kiss him.

“How long have I been asleep?” he murmured into her hair.

“Almost three days since the last time you woke up. I was so afraid for you.”

“Will we ever get past this hell so I can marry you?”

“I’ve been wondering the same thing ever since we were captured by that evil Marco. ”

He winced, looking up at the bed canopy. “He was killed during my release from the torture chamber. Good thing. If he was still alive, I would make good use of the equipment used on me.”

“All that matters now is getting you well and healthy again.” She pulled his chin back for a lingering kiss. “We will get through this trial, my love. Don’t lose hope. As long as we are together, we have a future.”

“I'm sorry that you were pulled into this mess.”

“I have nowhere else to be except by your side.”

A yawn arrested his facial muscles. “Maybe you should call the doctors so I can go to sleep again. I can't seem to stay awake for long.”

“Your body is healing itself.” She stretched over and pressed the button. “Is there anything else I can do?”

“Where is Darius?” Something dangerous flashed in his eyes. “Has he been caught and executed yet?”

Taken aback, she faked a smile. “He was able to flee the palace. As far as I know, he is still on the run.”

“Not for long.”

His jaw clenched and his good hand became a fist. Ashamed to admit it to herself, Elaine was glad for the straps holding him. She felt that he was close to unraveling. He wasn't in his right mind yet.

On an impulse, she kissed him. His muscles softening, he accepted the gesture. It warmed her heart to know that he had been thinking of her all this time. She smiled around their kiss.

A throat was cleared behind them.

Heat burning her cheeks, she drew back to find two nurses and a young doctor standing there. One nurse wore a disapproving expression while the other two were amused. Without comment, they checked Gavin’s vitals, changed his sheets and gave him another dose of pain medication.

Once the medical staff had left the room, Elaine sat on the edge of the bed.

He sought her hand. “I want to marry you as soon as possible. Within the next two or three days.”

Elaine laughed in surprise. “That’s a little soon, isn’t it? You need to heal before we think about marriage.”

“If anything else happens to me, I want you to be protected.”

“Nothing will happen to you now. We'll be fine.”

“You can't know that. This civil war is far from being over.” Earnest worry pulsated from his eyes. “It will be easier to protect you when we are married.”

“In that case, couldn't we have a private ceremony right here? It will be less taxing...”

“No, the planet needs a public wedding so everyone knows you are the rightful queen. There can't be any doubt.”

“Whatever you think is best though I doubt Doctor Galenius will approve. I'm not crazy about you exerting yourself either for that matter. Rest and get better first. Then we can talk more.”

He sighed, becoming frustrated. “Your safety is all I care about. Tell Antonius to arrange a ceremony for the day after tomorrow. I should be up and around by then.”

She grimaced. “Must I ask him? I would rather Lucas was the one to organize our wedding.”

He leveled an inquisitive stare at her. “Has he done something inappropriate towards you?”

Not wanting to upset him, she chose to fib. “Not exactly. He doesn't like me. It's uncomfortable every time he is in the room.”

“Antonius has been my trusted friend since boyhood, my love. He isn't going away. You can’t avoid him forever.”

“That may be. I still don’t want him planning our wedding.”

“If you feel that strongly then ask Lucas instead to make the arrangements. Will you object if I ask Antonius to stand with me?”

“No, that is your own concern.” She leaned forward to peck his cheek. “Thank you for respecting my feelings. Is there anything else you require before I leave?”

He shook his head slowly. “Get something to eat and sleep. Promise me?”

She pressed a kiss between his golden brows. “I will. Go to sleep. That's a direct order from your future queen.”

His eyelids drooping, he chuckled. “You are the only one who can give me orders now.”

When he had drifted off to sleep, she was able to leave her post. Her stomach rumbling, she realized that she hadn’t eaten or had a change of clothes for thirteen hours. She went in search of her handmaidens, either one of them.

Nearly getting lost, she came upon a maid who directed her to the apartment's kitchen.

No one was there but that was for the best. The cupboards were well-stocked. She had a craving. Soon, a pot of creamy potato soup and a batch of yeast rolls were filling the apartment with delicious smells. She hummed quietly, feeling much more like herself.

Preparing a meal and working over a hot stove brought back wonderful memories. Her appetite surged, ready for familiar food. She had yet to get used to the foreign, spicy fare served on Novus.

Mara walked into the kitchen as Elaine was putting together a green salad. She looked in amazement at the simple meal being prepared.

“My lady, I would have brought a tray to His Majesty’s room for you.”

Elaine smiled, carrying the salad bowl to the table. “I was feeling out of sorts and cooking always brightens my mood. Would you like to join me? Perhaps Gloria as well?”

“I will find her at once. Thank you for the invitation.” Mara curtsied before leaving.

Elaine shook her head, a frown creeping across her face. She still wasn’t used to the curtsying, titles and customs. This shared meal must be used to her advantage. Gavin’s wish for a quick wedding presented problems for her.

Events were moving too fast versus her ability to keep up. She needed advice and help to understand minimum standards. Not just for the wedding itself but for her role as a royal wife moving forward. She hoped that the two sisters could prepare her.

So much was at stake.

Mara returned and brought Gloria to the table. During the meal, Elaine endeavored to create a lighthearted atmosphere. Her food was complimented profusely though she wondered at their sincerity. Earth cuisine was bland and simple compared to Novian fare.

Once the plates were cleared, Elaine got down to her ulterior motive. “I would like to use this opportunity to have an open discussion.”

“Of course, my lady, what would you like to know?” Mara asked, setting aside her wine glass.

“Indeed, we are always at your disposal,” Gloria added with a smile.

“I have some news which I hope meets with your approval. Gavin has requested a wedding ceremony. We will be married the day after tomorrow.”

There was a short pause before smiles broke out on the sisters' faces.

“Wonderful tidings, my lady,” Gloria said, “After what His Majesty has endured, he shall find happiness at last.”

Mara smiled. “Agreed. I am thrilled for both of you.”

“Thank you. Um...I need your help though. Gavin is an incredible person. I wouldn't want to embarrass him.”

“You are doing fine so far, my lady,” Mara insisted, her eyes straying to her sister. “You will make the perfect wife.”

Never a fool, Elaine caught the subtle look. “I won't be impressed by flattery. I have no grasp of Novian customs, not to mention royal behavior. I would appreciate candid honesty.”

“You are certain, my lady? We wish no offense.”

“Yes, I am sure. The last thing I want is to embarrass Gavin in any way or offend his followers.”

Gloria took a deep breath. “We could suggest a few tips to keep in mind. Firstly, titles are very important in the royal court. Unless speaking directly and in private to His Majesty, you must refer to him by the proper reference. Given names are rarely spoken except behind closed doors.”

“I see. So I should have said that I do not want to embarrass His Majesty?”

“Yes, exactly. The same should be said about each noble personage and military representatives.”

“How will I know each proper title? There must be dozens if not hundreds.”

“Once you become Empress Consort, ladies in waiting will be chosen for you. They will shadow your every step and assist in such matters.”

“What else should I be doing differently?” she asked, turning to Mara this time.

“I would advise reading a list of books which I could assemble for your ladyship. Absorbing information on Novian history, the Imperial dynasty and culture in general will be invaluable.”

“I will enjoy learning more. I have read several history volumes during the past couple days. Novus is fascinating. Anything else I should prepare?”

“You speak Italian very well but your syntax needs to be tweaked. Do you know Latin?”

“A few phrases but not enough to understand a conversation.”

“I could arrange a language tutor to assist you. While Italian is used as the common language throughout Novus, Latin is used in all formal ceremonies and religious services. A general grasp would be helpful.”

“Yes, I agree.” Elaine nodded, glancing at Gloria. “I am curious about an empress consort's duties. What will be expected of me?”

“Queens of history have been expected to accompany her husband to all banquets and diplomatic events. She would spend her free time learning the arts, bettering herself and conceiving royal offspring.”

“So I won't have any public duties besides appearing on my husband's arm at social functions?”

“I'm afraid not, my lady.”

Unhappy with the thought, Elaine lifted her shoulders. “Well, it would seem that I'll have nothing but time. On the bright side of things, that will be helpful. So is there anything else we haven't covered?”

“Nothing immediately,” Mara said, “Though we can arrange tutors for languages, social etiquette, history, traditions and royal fashion. Lessons in Novian dance and popular music wouldn't be amiss either.”

Elaine’s heart dropped; she was failing before having begun.

“Thank you for being honest with me, even if some of it was hard to hear. Tribune Lucas has been chosen to arrange the wedding ceremony. I would appreciate both of you working with him.”

“The emperor's uncle is a fine choice, my lady. He will do the job properly.”

“Also, I'm not sure what to wear. ”

“That won’t be a problem, my lady,” Mara piped up, “I could put together an exquisite outfit which meets all the requirements. Do you prefer a certain color?”

Elaine shook her head. “Not especially. I’ll leave that up to your good judgment. How involved do I need to be in the wedding preparations? I was hoping to still watch over Gav….I mean His Majesty as he recovers.”

“We will share duties with Tribune Lucas, the restaurant staff and other servants. The final choices will remain yours.”

“Please remember that His Majesty and I want a simple, quick affair. He can’t handle much excitement just yet. I would have preferred to wait until his health had returned. But he insisted upon our marriage happening as soon as possible.”

Worry clouded Elaine’s mind, taking her far away. She bit down on her bottom lip. She worried over the true reasons behind his sudden desire for a quick wedding. Did the doctor tell him something about his health? Is he dying and just doesn't know how to tell me?

Fingers covered her wrist, the human contact bringing her back to the present moment.

Gloria wore a warm, sympathetic smile. “His Majesty will fully recover, my lady. He must for you and for the Roman Empire. He is the last of a royal bloodline dating back almost two thousand years. Both of you will be guarded as a precious commodity.”

“Do you think the people will resent a primitive woman as their queen?”

“They need never know, my lady. What His Majesty desires will be fulfilled.” Mara was choosing her words carefully. “Being the only possible heir to the throne will provide him with many perks. Those made wealthy by royal ties wouldn't want to risk his abdication. He will be allowed to marry whom he chooses. Even if she is not a woman of noble blood.”

“Enough of this serious talk,” Gloria insisted, glaring at her sister. “My lady, you look tired and in need of some pampering. Should we retire to your chambers?”

Nodding listlessly, Elaine felt an emptiness widening within her abdomen. Gavin’s bloodline would die with him. Her body was useless to provide an heir. Gavin still wanted her but for how long? She wondered if he understood fully what her barrenness meant for his future.