Chapter 16: Chapter Sixteen

Elaine was led to her own, luxurious chambers to bathe and change into a silky, red gown. She was left alone in a firm bed, wider than it was long. Tossing among the white sheets, she couldn’t stop her brain from churning. Anxiety bubbled in her blood.

Maybe I should face my fears head on and ask someone. This laying about and worrying isn’t doing anything constructive. It won’t hurt to ask...oh, dear LORD, give me the courage to find the truth.

Throwing aside the red coverlet, she pushed the call button.

Gloria appeared in a few minutes to tend to her needs. A green, floor-length tunica was chosen, swathed with a blue stola. Once dressed, she sat before a golden mirror. The handmaiden worked quickly, fashioning her hair into a graceful, wispy coiffure.

“Thank you for your help, Gloria. Do I look alright to visit the medical bay?”

The handmaiden cast her eyes up and down. “You look every inch a future queen, my lady. Beautiful, strong and graceful.”

Peering into her reflection, Elaine struggled to find those qualities. A handsome woman in her late twenties stared back. Faint lines were etched around her mouth and eyes, denoting hardship. Her breasts and hips were still desirable. All the same, her skin was freckled and blemished from the sun.

“I only see someone who has fallen short. We both know that I can’t produce children most likely.”

“Yes, but His Majesty loves you. That much is obvious. You are the only one who can calm him down. Perhaps Doctor Galenius can do something for you.”

Elaine lifted her chin. “I was planning on paying him a visit. I can only hope that he will have good news.”

“As my mother used to say, you will never know until you try, my lady.”

Smiling weakly, Elaine took a deep breath and walked to the door. Two uniformed guards stood outside, guarding her chambers. Both bowed curtly in respect. One of them, a severe man in his forties, led the way to the medical bay. He walked with such tight dignity; she wondered if he even blinked without permission.

Servants, nurses and soldiers stood aside as she strode the hallways. Bows and curtsies greeted her. A cold sweat broke out along her skin. She realized that this was the first time any of them had seen their planet's future queen. Curiosity about her made sense.

The guard took her through bright, sterile hallways where mostly wounded soldiers were recovering. Nurses passed her, carrying sheets, laundry or trays of food. Bleach assaulted her nose. The ward had a barren, colorless quality which made her sad.

What a depressing environment in which to be sick or injured, she mused.

She was led past cozy offices with professional names blackened upon the white doors. He stopped at one door in particular and opened it, standing aside for her to enter. Doctor Galenius looked up from behind a metal desk.

His signature, kind smile crossed his face as he stood up.

“My dear, to what do I owe this charming pleasure?” he said, breathing a kiss upon her fingers. “Is His Majesty doing well? I visited him not even an hour ago and he was stable.”

“He was sleeping when I left him.” She blushed. “I have come for a...uh...personal reason.”

“My lady, do have a seat here and tell me what is on your mind,” he said, offering a cushioned chair. He perched a hip on the desk and crossed his arms. “Take your time. My rounds aren’t for another forty-five minutes.”

She clasped her hands together, willing them to stop shaking. “Do I have your word that what I say won’t leave this room?”

“Of course, my lady, that goes without saying. The Hippocratic oath dates back to the beginning of Roman culture and forbids physicians from sharing personal or intimate patient information. If we break that oath, our career is in instant jeopardy.”

“Do you know that I am a primitive from Earth?”

“I heard through the grapevine. Go on.”

“When I was a child, I was sold into prostitution. Things were done to me that injured...down there. I was forced to lose my baby. Since then, I haven't fallen pregnant.”

He nodded gravely. “Understood. You have my deepest sympathy.”

“I’m not sure but I think...I probably won’t be able to have Gavin’s...I mean, His Majesty's children.”

His eyebrows shot up and he exhaled forcefully. “Does His Majesty know all of this?”

“Yes, Doctor, I have told him everything. You can ask him to be sure. He still wants to marry me in two days’ time.”

“Both of you deserve happiness after such abuse. Now, turning our attention to this other dilemma, it is grave indeed. Has your monthly period been regular throughout your lifetime?”

“Yes, but they have been very light and short. Two or three days at the most.”

“Would you permit an examination?”

“Yes, I want to know today if you can do anything to help.”

She was led to a sterile examining room. A female nurse accompanied her and the doctor. He was as quick as possible and gentle in his probing. Even so, she gripped the table, embarrassed and terrified.

After Elaine's clothing had been put right, he dismissed the nurse.

“An heir will be vital to secure the throne, especially at this turbulent time in Novian history.”

She bowed her head, fighting tears. “I am worthless to him...I know this already. So I should back out of the marriage?”

“No, no, you didn’t let me finish, my lady. When you are wed and ready to conceive a child, come to me again. On our planet, my dear, there are many cures for what troubles you. There doesn't seem to be anything wrong with your vaginal canal or cervix.”

A lump tightening in her throat, Elaine struggled to speak. “You are certain, sir?”

“Yes, my lady, I am dead serious. Most likely, stress and poor diet has interfered with your monthly cycle and dampened fertility.”

“What can be done?”

“I will prescribe vitamin tablets and a special diet to strengthen your body. Get plenty of sleep and drink as much water as possible.” He patted her hand. “You aren't alone in this, my lady. Together, we will find a solution.”

She did break down then, hiding her face in her hands. Months of fear and guilt poured out alongside blessed relief. Her heart sang with a prayer of thanks. She got herself under control, giggling self-consciously.

“I’m so sorry, Doctor. It’s just that...oh, I have been so in the darkness and now you have shed light. I must look like a mess.”

He handed her a handkerchief and a small mirror to fix her makeup. “That is perfectly alright, my lady. I look forward to working together for the good of the Imperial Empire and for your own happiness.”

“You have taken a great load off my mind.” She kissed his cheek and hurried out.

The guard escorted her to the emperor's bedchambers and his guards opened the double doors. Before entering, she took a shaky breath to calm her pounding heart. She was surprised to hear her beloved’s quiet laughter. The beautiful sound warmed her insides.

Moving quietly, she peeked into Gavin’s bedroom. Further surprise greeted her. Antonius was leaning against the wall by his friend’s bedside. Her eyes cut to her beloved who wore a hearty grin. She was glad to see the leather cuffs had been removed from Gavin’s limbs.

Clearing her throat, she made her presence known.

His smile evaporating, Antonius pushed away from the wall to bow stiffly. Gavin turned his beautiful smile and green eyes upon her. His bandaged left hand reached out, asking for hers. She glided to his side and touched his wrist.

“Would you excuse us, Antonius? We can finish our discussion later.”

“Very well. I will come back. Summon me when you are ready,” he said, his jaw clenching as he left the apartment.

Jealousy was written all over him. Maybe his coldness toward her was understandable. He had been Gavin’s loyal confidant for a long time. Now she was stealing his best friend. Something to think about later on…

Drawing her close, Gavin slipped his powerful right hand behind her neck. Possessively, he tasted her throat. She moaned and tangled her fingers in his short hair. Needing him closer, she pulled his chin up to devour that fine, plump mouth. Her tongue caught the taste of alcohol lingering inside his cheeks.

Their kisses transitioned from desperate to languid. She opened her eyes to meet his emerald gaze. He murmured sweet love into her ear, gently pressing kisses along her jawline. Her head fell back as she exhaled in pleasure.

“My love, we will be caught doing something indecent if this goes any farther.”

“As if you aren't already mine to do with as I please.” His chuckle warmed her cleavage. “You smell incredible, darling. I could eat you alive.”

“You're feeling better, aren't you?” She giggled, cupping his head as he rested against her breasts. “Are you still in pain?”

“Still there but getting better. I'll be able to ravish you soon.” He grinned sheepishly, leaning back against the wall of pillows. “If my control holds, I intend to wait until our wedding night.”

“Will you have the strength for a wedding?”

“I'll find the strength. No matter what happens in the coming future, I want you to be my wife. I've been laying here, thinking about your delights to be savored afterward.”

She had the decency to blush under the lust in his eyes. “I heard that Doctor Galenius stopped by while I was gone. What did he say?”

“That the Praetorian serum and pain medications are doing their work. He took off the restraints so I will be able to get out of bed for some light exercise. Care to go for a walk with me later?”

“I would love that.” She beamed at him. “But aren’t you pushing yourself a little fast?”

“Doctor’s orders. The broken bones are almost healed. Truly, I’m feeling much stronger.”

“And your mind? Tell me the truth now.”

His eyes fell to their joined hands. “There have been dreams but it all feels like it happened to someone else. Pain and discomfort are not new to me. What they did to me this time was nothing compared to the execution-by-exile ordeal.”

She bowed her head, overcome by emotion. His wings were spread out around him, a shadow of their former glory. Her fingers couldn't resist touching the soft, damaged feathers. He winced and she pulled her hand away.

“I didn't mean to hurt you. Your feathers...they are growing back.”

“I won’t be able to fly for a few weeks.” His face was twisted by a bad memory. “Now I know what a chicken must feel. Being plucked is not a painless experience. Each feather was agony as it tore loose.”

A shudder ripped up her back. “I can’t bear the thought. Surely, now that an army surrounds us, you will never be hurt again.”

“My sweet, in some ways, we are more vulnerable than ever before. Being the sovereigns will guarantee plentiful enemies from around the globe.” He guided her head back and pecked her lips. “But I can promise that you will be my sunshine for as long as breath fills my body.”

Guided down to lay beside him, she pillowed her head upon his chest. Doctor Galenius sprang to mind but she decided to wait until their wedding night to share her news. They laid together for a while longer, basking in each other's presence.

They drifted off together, as close to peace as they could get for now.

* * * * *

Two and a half hours later, Gavin awoke first and kissed her awake. The bed was abandoned at that point. He stood upon legs which trembled. With Elaine's tender help, he regained his equilibrium quickly.

She shaved him carefully and fixed his hair to look more natural.

He was assisted into a comfortable blue tunic draped over with a white toga. His muscular arms sported battle scars from his ordeals. Cuff bracelets were locked around his wrists. The wide gold bands were encrusted with precious gems and intricate etchings. A medallion with the Imperial crest hung from his neck by a thick gold chain.

Her breath was stolen as her eyes roamed over him. He was every bit an emperor. His beautiful wings, though tattered, hung proudly from his shoulder blades. Never had he appeared so in his element and comfortable in his own skin.

Reaching up, she touched his smooth cheek. “How do you really feel about being emperor, dear one?”

“I might fail in this role but at least I have tried. I wish that we could have lived our lives on Earth.”

“Even though you hated my planet so much?”

“The people, yes, for how they treated you. The land was untamed and wild. I miss the freedom to roam.”

“So do I. God had other plans for us.”

He raised his eyebrows. “Yes, perhaps so. Shall we go for our walk? I’m as ready as I’ll ever be.”

“I'm here if you need to lean on me,” she whispered, taking his arm.

“I was going to say the same thing. This will be our first public appearance. It may be overwhelming.”

She smiled and sighed. “I guess we'll have to get used to it. This is our lives now.”

Outside the doors, four guards followed them at a reasonable distance. Once entering the main compound, all eyes were upon them. Soldiers, servants, medical staff and everyone else came together. Applause broke out, rippling through the crowd as the couple passed through.

Kind words for Gavin’s health were whispered from every angle. Elaine's heart was touched by the love and loyalty shown to her future husband. There were well wishes directed at her as well. Long life and good health for their new rulers.

At the massive, exterior door, Gavin gave an impromptu speech.

“My people, every one of you has saved my life and kept the dynasty secure. The Lady Elaine and I are engaged to be married in two days' time. You are each invited to the wedding and banquet to be held afterward. I know this is short notice. However, this civil war demands that the throne be stable. Continue your hard work while knowing that it is much appreciated. Thank you.”

Applause and cheers erupted within the concrete walls, deafening in its enthusiasm.

Nearly bursting with pride, Elaine had been watching her beloved. Everyone could surely see the cuts on his face, his ragged wings and the purple bruises staining his arms. And yet he had conquered over all those hardships to be standing before them.

The people's king had come home, providing Novus with safety, hope and security.

Soaking in Novian sunshine, the couple headed toward the stables to pet the horses and smell fresh hay. Tagging along, Lucas updated his nephew on war developments and the efforts to locate Darius. She kept close watch over her beloved. When he was getting tired, she ended the conversation between the two men.

Indulging her worry, Gavin chose to return to his rooms. Propriety didn’t allow her to join him for the night but she was content, knowing that soon every privilege would be allowed.

The bed welcomed her tired body, exhausted after a lovely day. The last thought to cross her mind was the wedding gift she planned to give her new husband. A joyful smile followed her into dreamless slumber.

The next morning brought a quick breakfast with him. Then Gloria, Mara, the head chef, Lucas and Antonius provided a presentation to showcase their wedding choices. Flowers, food dishes, tapestries, dresses and many other options were paraded past their judgment.

While she was having the time of her life, poor Gavin became bored. He retreated into the next room with his uncle and best friend for male conversation. The ladies and head chef continued tirelessly until every detail was ironed out.

The evening closed with a delicious meal shared between the engaged couple, served by romantic candlelight. It felt like old times to Elaine, sharing this quiet time with her betrothed. Afterward, they sat before a flickering, virtual fireplace. Spent cuddling, stealing kisses and talking, the hours passed over. An excitement hung thick between them as they bid goodnight to one another.

She didn’t sleep a wink that night and wondered if he was laying awake too. The wedding was set for eleven o’clock and a sumptuous luncheon would be served afterward. Even Antonius seemed caught up in the party mood. She ruminated upon the man, questioning her past misgivings.

Is jealousy at the root of his problem with me? He is so rude all the time, except when around Gavin. I can't take him much longer. He is such an arrogant suck up!

She turned onto her side, pulling the sheets up to her neck. Time would reveal the soldier's motives. At any rate, tomorrow was not the time for problems or worry. Love would rule the day.