Queen's Light

After the Council

His name was Thomas Fye, and he was an archer.

Before the war, Rhiannon hadn't spent so much time around members of the opposite sex aside from her brother. Being in the army was a new experience, one that she approached with caution. But when the most perfect candidate strolled into her view, she couldn't take her mind off of him.

Because of her training, Rhiannon floated between fighting as a foot soldier and as an archer. She very easily asserted her position within both of these ranks, catching the attention of many a talented soldier, many of whom became some of her closest friends. At least until she was promoted.

Once upon a strangely breezy summer day, Rhiannon strolled to the archery range for practice. To her surprise, someone had already beaten her there.

He was tall, lanky and lean, with hair like spun gold and eyes the color of the sky. He had introduced himself as Thomas, Thomas Fye, and she was immediately intrigued by his aura of charisma.

They became quick friends, and months later Rhiannon realized she felt differently about him than she did her other friends. She cared about him, as though he were a part of herself.

She knew that if she bottled those feelings inside her, she would likely explode, so she meticulously planned the day she would tell him. She went with him to the practice range, a normal occurrence, then waited until the sun began to set to tell him of her feelings.

She could still remember what he'd said in response. It scarred her that day, and was ultimately what caused the beginnings of her addiction to blood petals.

"Are you trying to tell me that you love me, Rhiannon?" A laugh. "Figures. I've been loved before, you know. You're every bit the ugly bitch she was."

He'd ended this with another laugh before walking away.

Her hands shook.

Perhaps this wasn't the best time. Perhaps she could make up an excuse, say that she was feeling ill and had to retire to her chambers.

For the rest of time.

No. Rhiannon knew that if she set it aside now, she would never say anything. And if that happened, she may revert to plunging a knife into her own heart. It would certainly hurt less.

She stopped by her chambers, leaving behind her papers from the council meeting. As she passed by her window, she opened it, relishing the light autumn breeze that rushed in.

Autumn was her favorite season. The colors, the weather, the clothing, the smells, the food. All of it made her feel just a little bit warmer inside.

Just a little bit.

She took a deep breath, delighting in the scent of the cool weather. It calmed her overactive nerves, if only slightly. Her hands were shaking, barely visible. She rubbed them together, taking another few deep breaths. Her heart pounded deep in her chest.

After what felt like an eternity, she uprooted herself and left her chambers, heading down the hall to the west wing of the castle.

She came upon the palace offices, finding the Seneschal's among them. With a less than steady hand, she lifted her arm and rapped on the door, hoping he were in.

( Malgeres )