Book Two: The Larkspur's Longing ~ A tale of deep obsession and devotion

Chapter Twenty-Seven: Surprise

The moment Callidus entered Windridge, his senses sharpened, and he immediately detected the unfamiliar sound of raised voices resonating down the stone steps. Despite the muffled words, there was no mistaking the characteristic cadence of Cressida's passionate shouting.

Callidus instantly ascended the stairwell toward the second landing. The argument intensified, becoming louder and more distinct with each urgent step he took.

As Callidus arrived at the door leading to Cilla and Quail's makeshift prison cell, the voices from within became clear, and Cilla's sharp tone cut through the air.

"...even seem to care about us anymore!"

Cressida's voice was slightly muffled and carried a shrill tone, as if she had been crying. "It's not that simple! I'm just as trapped as you are!"

Cilla's retort was swift and biting. "Oh, are you? Because the last time I checked, Quail and I don't get walks out in the garden."

"You'll be free in three days, Cilla! You'll be released with everyone at his Coronation."

"Your Highness, I never thought you'd be foolish enough to believe that."

"He's changed! I keep telling you two that he's changed! He's going to let everyone go-"

"But not you, Birdie," Quail's voice interjected, his tone markedly calm compared to the heated exchange between the women.

"Not that she wants to go anymore," Cilla swiftly cut in. "She's more than happy to be his little caged bird for the rest of her life."

"I'll have to get married eventually! And Callidus loves me!"

"He thinks he loves you."

"Isn't that what love is?" Cressida declared, "It's a choice."

Callidus pressed his ear against the door, his mouth growing dry.

"It's not a fair choice if he's the one making them all."

"He's not! I told you, it's my choice!"

"So, you want to marry him now? Is that what you're saying?"

"I think...I think he'd be a good husband to me," Cressida said, her voice slightly wavering.

"Lady's mantle, Birdie," Quail interjected with a curse, "He killed his own father!"

Cressida's response was swift. "His father was a horrible man! He deserved a lot worse than what Callidus did to him!"

Quail pressed further. "And his brother?"

Cressida's voice held a hint of uncertainty. "We...we don't know who killed Ferox."

"Oh, Birdie, come on-" "Your Highness, really!"

"But...but even if he did-"

Cilla practically screeched in response, her exasperation clear. "Even if he did?! Your Highness, are you hearing yourself?"

Cressida, equally frustrated, cried out, "Are you even hearing me? I told you that Callidus is changing. He's become kinder, more open, more honest. It's not fair to hold his past against him when he's trying so hard to become a better person!"

"I'm sorry, Birdie," Quail interjected, "but tell that to my broken finger."

Cilla added, "And wrist."

"Callidus didn't break Quail's wrist!" Cressida defended, "And besides, he hasn't hurt you anymore, has he?"

"He hasn't come to see us anymore," Quail said. "But I'm sure if he had, I'd be in a much worse state."