My mouth hung open. I was unabashedly shocked. "I, um, I can bathe on my own, I do not require sight to-"
I felt her hand, just lightly, touch my shoulder. "-I did not ask because I see you as an invalid. I ask because I have chosen which of the two paths you described already, and I see you as a kind and brave man that is devoted to helping his ruler."
She moved her hand to my chest, and I caught my breath. "Do you not know how handsome you are? Would you-"
I sputtered, and insolently interrupted her. "-Me? Handsome!?! But I cannot even cut my hair properly, I cannot see! Please do not jest with me!"
Gently, I removed her hand. "I may be 'the oracle,' but I am still a man, and such words are inflammatory to my earthly desires, your Majesty. I cannot help but think inappropriate thoughts, I am unaccustomed-"
She put her hand on my face! "-You were meant to think those manner of thoughts. Andrew."
Her voice was so velvety and seductive, yet earnest. I felt the echoes of my vision and realized there would be ramifications if I did not resist. Perhaps for the kingdom, for the Queen's rule. I spoke rapidly, desperately clinging to my resolve to do right by her. "I am a lowly orphan of no standing, I have never been with a woman! I have no carnal knowledge, no skill! What if I put a baby in you, a bastard-"
She brushed her thumb across my lower lip, and my protests died at her touch. "-If you know the secret of my bloodline, then you know that I can choose when to conceive a child. And such a critical point is no time to bear myself an heir. But perhaps later, after I have made those fools see that I am already married, to the crown and country. I need no husband to rule. Now, will you allow me to accompany you for your bath?"
Confusion addled me, and I cautiously reached to feel along her arm. She felt warm and solid, not like a vision. "Are you real? Have I lost my senses after so many dreams and hallucinations?"
She took her other hand and guided mine to her breast! Overcome, I exhaled sharply and started coughing, doubling over with the effort and pain.
YOU ARE READING
The Last Oracle
FanfictionOracle: "a priest or priestess acting as a medium through whom advice or prophecy was sought from the gods in classical antiquity." Andrew has been alone, acting as the holy oracle, the voice of the gods, for over a decade. It has cost him his eyesi...
