Castles - Book 5 - The Frencolian Chronicles (complete)

Chapter Eleven

At the completion of the meal, the dining room filled with buzzing conversations wrapped with laughter here and there. Elliad rose from his place and moved around the long tables, pausing at intervals to talk to this one or that one, kissing the ladies and slapping the men on the back. It was obvious to see that his strength was returning fast.

Jobyna was tired. She felt tense and thirsty. These people here had been so occupied with their food and drink that no one had noticed her abstinence. When Elliad's back was toward her, she caught the eye of a servant and discreetly beckoned him to her. Requesting fruit juice or water, she found herself promptly served with a clean goblet and jug of juice.

Satisfied with the tasty fruit juice and with being ignored here now, she was able to study the people. People interested her. This bunch seemed empty, their faces void of real care and affection. Her father had called it 'dog-eat-dog' when people climbed on each other to succeed. Elliad had succeeded, he had 'his' treasures and the awe and worship of these people here.

Julian had drunk too much. His face shone red, his nose almost purple. He fell off his seat and his laughter resounded like the bray of a donkey. Jobyna guessed his mirth would be at a bawdy joke. Ada was also drunk, her indulgence for other reasons. Ranée was sober. She sipped from her goblet, watching the direction of Jobyna's gaze.

Elliad walked to his mistress and whispered lingeringly in her ear. He sat, kissing her cheek, then her neck. Jobyna looked away, feeling repulsed. Having studied her company long enough, she poured more juice.

Elliad whispered in Ranée's ear and she threw a sneering look at Jobyna. She left the room, followed by Ada. Silence stole the atmosphere as people noticed their departures. Elliad strolled leisurely around the main table to Jobyna and extended his arm. Everyone stood, bowing and curtsying as they made their exit.

"Chezkovia is over three times the size of Frencolia. It has five times the population." Elliad informed her as they walked. "The king in Chezkovia is called 'Czar'—he is Czar Kievik. He has two sons. The eldest son of the czar, the heir to the throne of Chezkovia is called the 'Czarevitch'. His name is Czarevitch Kenrik. I want you to remember that name, Jobyna. In a few day's time, Czarevitch Kenrik is travelling here with his entourage to visit me and discuss my future here. He's coming as his father's representative. I am preparing a welcoming banquet for him and I want you to be present. You know now what is expected?"

"To be seen and not heard," she said in a jovial manner, then biting her lip for being so outspoken. They approached the corridor leading to her apartment.

Elliad motioned behind for the knights, Julian and Brian, to wait. Turning to face her, he asked in threatening tones, "Why did you want to name this castle after me, Jobyna? You did not fool me with such flattery! I detected unspoken meaning in your words."

"I honestly do like your name, Elliad John. But it's true. You would not approve of my reasons." She was blushing and could not meet his icy stare.

Grasping her shoulders with his hands, he shook her violently, making her shudder with fear. The pressure of his strong left hand gripping her shoulder blade made her gasp with pain. All the nightmares she had ever dreamed flashed across her terrified mind as Elliad pinned her against the door to her room. His left arm pushed up hard under her chin and she felt sure she would be strangled.

Ellice and Boey stood back in fright as Elliad threw the door open and flung Jobyna backward. The force of this motion caused her to sprawl sideways, falling helplessly, awkwardly, to the floor. A strangled cry escaped her lips as one knee twisted beneath her, receiving the full weight of her descending torso.

"You make fun of me, girl! How dare you mock me?" he yelled. Pulling off the sling and throwing it down on the floor, he waved Ellice and Boey out of the chamber. Jobyna shuddered as the door slammed shut. They were alone.