Bride of Alvar (Redemption Saga, Book 1)

Chapter 43

"Lucy, stop!" Mom runs after me down the hall as I hurry to the great dining room. "Let's talk some sense into you. You can't stay married to him."

Her words astound me. After everything...

I whirl around and face her. "Mom, if you're not interested in seeing where this story ends go back to Earth. I can get you there because you're originally from there, but if you're willing to trust my judgment, then stay."

"I'm worried for you. Have you any idea what that thing whom is your husband did while Saul was ruler? How many lives he took?" Mom shouts, her face is livid. "I'm afraid of him."

"Who told you?" I ask.

"Leeza explained it to me," she shudders and closes her eyes. "Horrible."

"I saw into his memories, Mom. Believe me, I know what he's done," I say, and I take her hand in mine, my heart softening at her concern for me. In the past I'd wondered how much she was willing to put me through, but it's nice to see her a little protective. "You don't understand magic like I do. Alvar didn't do it because he wanted to. He did it because someone else was controlling him. And I think you've underestimated how dangerous this world is if you think Alvar is the one you should fear at this point. He's the one who can protect us. There is another creature out there in the world of Axus who would see us all suffer here. Who feeds and lives off of pain and chaos."

I find myself wondering what the Sorceress is doing right now and it sends chills down my spine.

"Lucy, what are you talking about?" Mom shakes her head at me in sympathy.

I've always been the one who is crazy to her. Some things never really change, do they?

"Maybe you should go back to Earth, Mom, it would be safer for you. Our world is protected from here now thanks to the marriage you arranged for me before I was born," I assure her, "And I could maybe even visit you there. But I have to stay here and make sure Earth and Axus stay separate."

Mom shakes her head. "I won't leave you. I can't. I've already put you through too much to have you go on alone as the only other being from Earth here."

"Thank you, Mom." I throw my arms around her, even if I'm unsure how her semi-apology is coming off at me. "I hope I can convince the leaders of Underland to accept Alvar as their king." I don't have time to let her unsettle me. I'm a queen now with a husband to fight for.

"I'll stay and support you, but I'm afraid of him, Lucy, he's done horrible things," Mom admits.

"Good," I say, "You should be." And I enjoy one moment of seeing the shock on her face at my words before entering the great dining room where the leaders have gathered. Alvar is absent from the table, but I didn't expect him to be there.

This is about my witness of who Alvar is. Whatever that counts for.

Everyone gets up from their seats when I enter as a sign of respect.

I try not to rush myself. I nod my head in approval the way Leeza instructed me is custom, and say, "Please be seated."

Fletch sits next to me, and I'm grateful to have him there as a small amount of moral support. I notice Lord Vessin and Lord Calbir among those gathered and my nerves start to get to me. I know among those two, Lord Vessin in the one whom needs the convincing. I decide it best to let us eat before discussing the future of Underlund lest our hunger creates animosity.

After everyone is served and has had their fill I rise and tap my goblet.

"I want to first thank you for coming to my table and sharing in a meal," I begin, I'm shaking with nervousness.