Candescent (The Opalescent Collection Book 1) (28 page)

I didn’t realize I fell asleep again until Rasha’s voice startled me. We approached the dark palace that was illuminated by soft lanterns that guided us up its stony path to its doors.

“I’ll take her up to her room.”

“Don’t worry about me. I’ll take Versailles to the stable. When I’m done with her I’ll go to the guest room. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

I was carried through the doors of the great palace into the blinding light of the halls. I could feel the heavy steps taken up the great staircase as my savior neared exhaustion. I was taken through the vast halls to a dim room I assumed was my own. Slowly I was placed onto my feet. I felt too weak to stand and held onto my savior for support, held onto him, letting only a few tears escape.

“Thank you Raven,” I said.

“You don’t need to thank me.”

“I guess that makes us even then.”

“I will always be indebted to you, my Queen.”

“And you carried me across that desert so fast. You brought me home without a thought.”

“I didn’t have to think. It didn’t take long to get to the City from where we were anyway.” He looked down at me now, saw how vulnerable I was and I could see his sorrow for me.

“Thank you,” I said again.

“Don’t thank me, you don’t have to.”

“I will repay you then.”

“Don’t bother.”

“You know you are welcome to stay here.”

“I’m going to stay. We’re going to have a nice feast tomorrow and you can see the rest of the Allies and find out about Pete. You will be ok, I promise.”

“Won’t you have to leave afterward?”

“No, just Rasha and Rallen have to leave. I can stay if you need help. But I think after some time you will be fine on your own.”

“I can’t think of that right now Raven.”

“You don’t have to. I know you’re tired and you need to sleep.”

“Yes,” I paused to look at him with admiration. “Goodnight Raven.”

“Goodnight.”

He took a step back and I waited for him to leave. Suddenly he held me, pulled me close and suffocated me with a loving kiss. Being shocked and tired I didn’t oppose against his profane doings. So he continued to fondle me, acting as though he was Pete himself, like he had permission. And being as late as it was, now somewhat delusional, I could have been convinced that he was Pete if he told me.

He didn’t have to tell me because when he turned to guide me toward the bed I saw Pete lying on the bed before me. And although his eyes were closed, I fainted.

“Chenille can you hear me?”

My eyes flew open in an instant. Herbs were in front of my face and I assumed they were responsible for waking me. I didn’t know how long I was out but it was long enough for Raven to find Caspian and bring him to me.

“Caspian is that you? It’s good to see a familiar face.”

The doctor gave me a smile, his sapphire eyes glistened and I felt better. It was so long since I saw him and I wanted to know so much. I wanted to find out about Amelia. Many questions filled my head but I pushed them aside. He had a question for me.

“Do you remember what happened?”

“I fainted.”

“Can you add anything Raven?”

I noticed Raven sitting beside him as quiet as a mouse. He shrugged, shook his head, not answering the doctor.

“It was Pete,” I said, “I saw him lying on the bed in the bedroom and I fainted.”

“I see. So then Raven got me to take a look at you,” he mumbled.

“How is Pete?”

“Pete.” He took a deep breath. “Pete is not well. Lucian’s heart caused a lot of damage, but it didn’t actually kill him. The physical features have all gone and he isn’t suffering right now. It seems that he is not dead, but rather asleep, like in a coma. I don’t know how long he will stay like that but I am monitoring him very closely. There is a chance that he will wake to be the same vampire you once knew and loved, but that might not be so. He might wake up and not know who he is. He might call out for Jasper and ask
him
who he is. In the meantime, you will just have to take his place until he wakes. That is,
if
he does.”

I sank back satisfied with what he had to say. “Can I still go to the feast?”

“You can go only if you feel up to it.”

“Will you be there?”

“I’ll try my best.” He stood up, gathered his things and put them back into his medical bag.

“Caspian, would you mind me asking about Amelia?”

“I don’t have any news to give you I’m afraid. I will make sure you are the first one to know if anything should come up. So far there is nothing to be said.” He gave me a shrug.

“I will see you at the feast then.”

“Yes, I’ll see you. Send for me if you need me.” He gave us a final goodbye and then left.

Raven, who had been quiet and still as stone, managed to sit beside me.

“Are you sure you’re all right?”

“Yes Raven, I’m fine. I was just shocked before.”

“Good.” He took a long sigh of relief.

“You know, I could ask you the same.”

“What do you mean?”

“You acted so strange when Caspian was here, you were quiet and stiff as though his very presence prevented you from breathing. You didn’t even answer him when he asked you questions.”

“I didn’t have to answer him,” he rebutted as though I insulted him.

“And now you’re being defensive.”

“Don’t worry about me. I’m just tired.”

He tried to move even closer and attempted to kiss me a second time. “Raven no! What are you doing?”

“What’s wrong?”

“What’s wrong? This is unacceptable Raven! No wonder you’re acting strange. You know as well as I do that this isn’t right.”

“But Chenille you know I didn’t mean any harm.”

“Stop this nonsense!” I swung my legs over the edge of the bed and got to my feet.

“Chenille please listen to me.”

I ripped my hand away from his gentle grip and proceeded toward the door. He got in front of me, which only made me glare in disgust. “Get out of my way! I have to get ready for a feast and I won’t do so in front of you.”

“Then won’t you just listen to what I have to say?”

“No, what you have to say doesn’t matter to me. The damage is already done. Leave me alone.”

“Please don’t be disappointed in me. I was tired. I wasn’t thinking straight-,”

“No, you weren’t. Now please, let me pass.”

He gave me a hard time since he wanted to talk and right his wrongs. I wouldn’t hear it. I couldn’t take it from him any longer and ignored him. When I finally escaped, I went to the luxurious bathroom. I bathed and dressed into a beautiful dress. I cleaned myself up and admired my reflection. I wasn’t emaciated as a starved dog anymore. I was fatigued but I looked forward to having a good feast. I stayed in the bathroom until I was completely ready and even then, I waited for someone to come and get me.

At last, it was Rasha who came for me. She greeted me warmly, wishing me a good morning. She was dressed so beautifully, decked with elegant gold jewelry. The creamy, exotic silks draped over her body, making her as exquisite and statuesque as a ruler should look. I was sure everyone would look at her with awe. That wouldn’t bother me.

While I headed to the grand staircase, I caught Raven’s glance from the corner of my eye. He was cleaned up and looked as wonderful as I would’ve expected from an ally, even him. He wore his magnificent sailor coat. It was navy and had enticing, shiny gold buttons. His black and white hair was nicely brushed and when he smiled at me, he thought I actually noticed him and admired him.
What a poor fool he is.

W
hen we all entered the dining room breakfast was already on the table. The curtains were open to let in the soft morning glow that casted an inviting light on our meal. There was a variety of breakfast meats and sweet cakes. There was fresh juice at every seat waiting for parched morning mouths and cool fresh water pooled over the lip of each pitcher.

Only Rasha, Rallen and Raven were present for the morning portion of the feast since the rest of the Allies would join us in the evening. I expected that Caspian would not come. We all sat and enjoyed our morning feast, only exchanging small talk. There would be time to talk when everyone else was there. Our meal took over an hour long and when we finished I dismissed my guests. The whole remainder of the afternoon was to nap and relax or take a stroll around the palace grounds. It was time to unwind and clear one’s head to prepare for the evening. I knew at the feast everyone would be talking about Pete.

So I caught up on the sleep I’d lost and stayed alone for the remaining hours. No one came to bother me or even talk to me when I visited Pete. He was still asleep, barely moving, barely breathing. The hours passed and felt short. Before I returned to greet my Allies, I cleaned myself off, woke myself up with some cool water, and finally made my way to the great dining room.

My father and Calvin came and so did my Allies: Tassie, Tallia, and Olend from Leria, Nella and Maven from Alfur and Saven and Malli from Lerion. Caspian couldn’t make it. We all sat around the massive table decked with cooked and roasted beasts filled with spices and herbs. Vivacious greens and fruits were piled high like centerpieces. And at every seat there was a silver goblet filled to the brim with plumeberry juice. The women gave their glass to one of the men at the table, be it their husband or one they knew. I gave mine to my father. Everyone sat, commented on the feast and thanked me for having it arranged. They all helped themselves. The men took a sip from their goblets.

“Are you doing all right? I mean are you handling everything all right Queen Chenille?” Rallen asked.

“I’m doing ok,” I admitted.

“How is Pete?” Olend asked.

“He’s not well.” My father answered for me and that was the end of it.

“Did they talk with the dragon?” I heard someone ask.

“Talk with him? That dragon was gone one he realized Pete was gone…or
Lucian
.”

“Jasper has gone full circle hasn’t he? He’s seen his Master die twice as far as he’s concerned.”

“Poor thing.”

“
Jasper
? We should be thinking about the people.”

“What about them? They know about Pete and their precious city is being rebuilt. Sebastian is destroyed now, so they’re safe.”

“Yeah, the people will be just fine now.”

“We’re not here just to talk about the people right? I mean, what about us?”

“Us? After this feast we’re all going home. Sebastian will be locked up and pushed under the rug like an old memory.” My father chimed.

“And you’re ruling us now?”

Everyone paused to look at me. I didn’t have a chance to answer fast enough before Raven cut in.

“Oh, if she couldn’t answer that Catastrophe will
be a catastrophe
.”

The men all laughed at his joke and the women giggled. I looked down at my food. I was not amused, only offended.

“Lighten up! Where’s your sense of humor?”

I looked up at him and gave him a pathetic excuse for a smile. I knew the plumeberry juice was getting to them. The women couldn’t help but laugh along because the stench of the juice was so potent that anyone sitting too close would feel its affect too.

“How is your dragon, my Queen?” Tassie asked.

“My dragon? He died…a while ago.”

“I’m so sorry.”

“Wasn’t his name Minx?”

“Like mink, the furry animal?”

“Ironic for a big beast like him,” Raven stated.

“Actually the word minx on Catastrophe means ‘the cherished one.’ I bet you didn’t know that huh Raven?” Calvin barked.

“He was such a sweet dragon. He wouldn’t hurt a soul unless I asked.” I said.

“How sweet was your dragon?”

“He was sweeter than your tongue.”

“
Sweet
doesn’t come to mind when I think of my tongue,” Raven laughed.

“It will be by the end of this feast. It will be so sweet from that juice in your hand that you’ll be uttering sweet words, only if you can.”

The men laughed because what I said was true.

“We’ll be lucky if we can stand, let alone say a few words.” Calvin added.

“And by
we
I hope you mean
you men
.”

“Of course. Who will drag us all the way home?” Olend said.

“Not me,” his wife chimed.

We all turned back to our plates and ate for a while. It wasn’t long before the men were laughing at themselves even when nothing was said.

Their conversations became so confusing that I gave up listening until they made sense to me.

“We should have feasts like this more often.”

“Too bad Pete isn’t here. He would’ve enjoyed himself.”

“There will be other feasts.”

“Pete shouldn’t have to miss out on a feast like this. It has all of his favorite things.”

“Hey, someone should go up there and wake him up.”

Everyone laughed and started to point fingers at who should
attempt to wake him
.

“Oh isn’t it obvious?”

“Who?”

“The Queen.”

“Why should she? She’d be faced with who he is when he wakes up.”

“So? How would she wake him up?”

“She should kiss him awake.”

“He’s not under a spell you know.”

“I don’t think I’m going to bother him.” I said.

“
Bother him
? He’s practically in a coma.”

“Someone should go get him up.”

“You say it like it’s simple.”

“Go kiss him awake Chenille.” Raven laughed.

“I don’t take orders from you, last I checked.”

“Oh, perhaps you do.”

“You should stop talking while you’re ahead.”

“I know you’re just savoring your last kiss.”

“By who?” I hissed.

“By me, of course. Don’t you remember? Now, there is no mistaking me for the King. I mean, just look at me. I captain a ship, well I used to. I am lucky to even be surrounded by the most powerful rulers on Catastrophe. Let’s face it – I’m nothing.”

“So you kissed the Queen?”

“Who hasn’t?” he teased. “But to answer your question, yes. It felt like I was kissing her very
soul.
”

They all laughed and he raised his goblet, smiled, and drank down more of that damned truth-spilling juice.                     

“Don’t listen to him. He doesn’t know what he’s saying.”

“And neither does she.”

“Poor Raven has drunk himself away again. This is not the first time I’ve seen you like this,” I chimed.

“Are you denying that kiss?”

“I would never do such a thing. I would never betray the King, my Eternal Mate.”

“Well, I beg to differ. Do you not remember the Trial?
All
of that was linked to you betraying your Eternal Mate for Fitzray.” He snorted. “And it seems that you weren’t faithful to
him either
.”

“How horrible this juice is. It’s making you say profanities.”

He pointed toward my hand with the Ceremonial Rings. “You wear his ring, but he should be back by now. Wouldn’t you think so?”

“Not necessarily.”

“Reincarnation for him never took too long.”

“But my friend Amelia, Caspian’s Eternal Mate, she hasn’t returned yet. It’s been months and months of waiting. And what do you know about Fitzray’s reincarnation and how long it takes? Last I checked you were just
acquaintances
.”

“I know it varies from vampire to vampire but I know Fitzray should be back.”

“What are you his brother now?” I hissed. “He will be back,” I lied. I hoped no one would remember this night.

“I think you’re lying.”

“Then you’re mistaken.”

“I don’t think you had the guts to perform a Ceremony with Fitzray.” He pointed to my hand again with a sly, drunken smile. “And who wears two Ceremonial Rings anyway? I wish I could say that it’s some new fashion trend but,” he cut himself short just to shake his head. “If only you could say that you have an heir to the throne. If you were pregnant you would have us all convinced that you had Fitzray’s reincarnation.”

“I was. I was supposed to have an heir to the throne. It was Prusaious that ended it. And what does it matter to you anyway? Why do you care about
my
Trial and
my
Eternal Mate?”

“Well you are going to rule and I would expect a truthful queen to take Pete’s place. He was a liar anyway, at least in the past, but I don’t know. I guess I’m expecting more from you. I guess we all are.”

“Get out Raven.”

“Oh, we’ve just started to talk. Since we’re all on the same page now why don’t you tell everyone what you told me? Tell them that you had dozens of chances to destroy Sebastian and you didn’t step up to the plate.”

“Raven you’re twisting my words and you know it!”

“And you…you wanted to die. You wanted to kill yourself. What would have happened to
us
if I didn’t save you?”

“You told me that it was an honor to speak with me. That was lying on your part. If it was an honor you would care about what you say to me.”

“Then I guess I don’t care.”

“Then you better get out of my palace.”

He smiled and couldn’t take me seriously. “You wouldn’t put a drunken man out on the street, would you? You’re better than that. I know you are.”

“You have ten seconds to get up and leave before you’re pulled out!” I said, now standing.

“All right,” he drank the rest of his juice and looked at me.

“I don’t have anywhere to go. Could you do me a favor and tell me where I am now?”

Everyone laughed at Raven’s act. I looked at them with disgust, knowing that it wasn’t worth it to argue and egg him on, so I gave up. They would all either retreat to the guest rooms or fall asleep in the mashed potatoes. I left the dining room, upset and offended. I knew I was no more of a fool than they were. I laughed along with them, contributed to the conversation and argued and denied some things. That was enough.

“You’re going to bed so soon, sweetheart?” Raven called.

“I guess that rests my case.”

I rushed off to my room and threw off my shoes. I started to doubt myself as a queen. I could only hope that my Allies would wake up and not be able to recall the night and the conversation that went with it.

I closed my eyes, resting by my Eternal Mate. I was too tired to blow out the candle so I watched it burn. I heard the door open and I looked over to see Caspian at my bedside.

“I thought I’d pop in to check on Pete but I see you’ve already done that for me.”

“I wanted to see him.”

“Why aren’t you at the feast? It looks to me like you’re going to bed.”

“I am. I just couldn’t stay awake any longer. Thank you for making it. You should go and enjoy yourself. There’s plenty of food and it’s easy to get a laugh out of them.”

“I’ll let them know you wished them a good night.”

“Goodnight Caspian. Enjoy yourself.”

“I will,” he said, closing the door behind him.

I closed my eyes and couldn’t sleep. My mind was spinning too much. I looked around, trying to clear my head, when I spotted Caspian’s medical bag. I reached down, grabbed the bag and looked inside. I shuffled through the vials and bags of herbs, picking out one in particular. I felt I knew this herb, even though I never saw it before in my life. It looked like black tea, but it was really a powerful medicine. I was sure it was a sleep agent or a sedative, but it just smelled bad and dangerous. I would use it, whatever it was.

I closed the medical bag and pushed it back to where I found it. I decided not to take the herbs just yet. Somewhere deep inside I hoped something would void my decision. I wanted to talk with my Allies in the morning, confirm that they didn’t remember anything and say my last goodbyes. I couldn’t imagine what would come of me if someone remembered about what Raven had said – and that it was true. I had denied it all, accused him of being wrong. I said that
he was the liar
, when in fact he said the truth.

I cursed the plumeberry juice, wondering what kind of custom would allow such a thing to be mandatory at a feast. Not only did it make your guests lose their minds, but it made them spill out the truth. And the truth wasn’t just about them, but about anyone. And if Pete was awake to hear the truth he would be so disappointed and aggravated. So I kept the bag of herbs under my pillow, where they would remain until my decision was made.