Between the Veil and Crown

Arvek 51

The rest of the day spent in the throne room was uncomfortable, to say the least. Arvek wanted nothing more than to go to Selim's side, as though his presence could somehow help his brother. When he was able to visit in the evening, he arrived in time to see Rasinod preparing the second daily dose. Niara was also present, sitting next to Selim's bed with her fists tightly clenched. She looked up when Arvek entered, relief flitting across her face.

Arvek said nothing as he slowly lowered himself on a corner of the bed. Selim was stirring, his eyelids fluttering.

Selim shifted his head and Niara's attention snapped back to him.

"Selim? She murmured, reaching for his hand. "Seilm? It's me."

He seemed to respond, turning his head towards the sound of her voice.

"I should caution you, my Queen, whatever he has to tell you, it will not be pleasant," Rasinod said warningly.

She looked up at him, her eyes misted. Something inside Arvek twisted at the sight of it.

She squeezed Seilm's hand. His eyes began to open.

There was a slight pause as Selim took a moment to make sense of who he was looking at.

"Mother?"

His voice was so soft and frail. It was so much worse than when he had last spoken to Arvek. Arvek glanced over at Rasinod, wondering if he had noted the change in Selim's voice. Rasinod was watching the mother and son carefully.

Niara nodded, touching his hair with her other hand. It was as though her touch ha da rousing effect. He shifted again, attempting to move himself into a better position to see her.

"Mother." It wasn't any stronger. In fact, all of his attempt only drained him. He went still, his breathing labored.

"Shh," Niara said in the most soothing voice she could manage.

The moment was ruined by Rasinod leaning in and administering the dose. Selim slipped back into unconsciousness, leaving Niara to gaze sadly at his pale face.

"This is for the better," Rasinod told her. "I know you want to speak with him, but he will try manipulating you."

A tear rolled down her cheek.

"You could have waited a moment longer," Arvek said in a low voice.

"Sir," Rasinod began, sounding tired.

"You have finished your task,' Arvek told him. "You are dismissed."

Rasinod hesitated, as though he was ready to give Arvek an argument as to why he should stay. But, thankfully, he did not. He slipped out of the room without another word.

Niara seemed oblivious of what was happening around her.

All that fear and worry over he missing son, and all she ended up with was Selim on his death bed.

Arvek wished he could provide some level of comfort to her. But everything he could come up with fell short of touching the pain she felt.

He wondered if he should tell her that he was sending for the Rangers, to get their opinion and possible help. Would it give her hope, or would it make her sent him for involving those closely connected to Selim's kidnapper and tormenter?

He decided for the time being not to say anything. She would learn soon enough. Instead, he let the moment continue in silence.

Who knew how long they sat there. The darkness of the sky deepened and a stillness only found when all were asleep could be felt.