The First Queen

4 - Threats and Familial Issues

My scream was so loud that even my ears rang like the horns of the apocalypse. I staggered back and Nyx hissed before winding her way around my legs reassuringly.

The pounding of heavy footsteps outside of my chambers didn't avert my eyes nor my thoughts from what was resting atop my bed like an ominous headpiece (no pun intended). Ahead (again, no pun intended)of me, was a letter placed against the bloody and mutilated head of a renowned duke from House Azumond known for being rather good at battles who had been one of my suitors.

Xanthe barged in, closely followed by a couple of guards and the gossipy Dallin who just stared, dumbfounded, until Athena entered not five seconds later. I slowly turned around to gape at the horrified faces in front of me and I noticed that Athena was half-dressed in her armour.

She must've come as soon as she heard the screams...

"Your Highness..." Xanthe gulped, taking in the scene.

Athena had hardened and her conscientious knighthood got the better of her before anyone else, "Sir Wraith, Mistress of Whispers: Stay. Everyone else: Out!"

Her commands were hastily carried out and I found myself alone with the two knights and the dracaenae.

"Are you well, Lady Elia?" The Captain asked, her voice pulling me back to planet Earth.

"I--..." I couldn't answer her and she just nodded, caressing my arm gently before realising the intimacy of her actions and pulling away.

Xanthe and Sir Wraith shared a look before focusing on Athena.

"Mistress, have Your Eyes found anything?" She asked and Xanthe shut her eyes momentarily.

"A cloaked man. Tall... In The Valenlor Wing... That is all." Xanthe grumbled, rubbing her temples and muttering words under her breath.

"Sir Wraith, I require you to clean this mess," Athena demanded and the knight visibly gagged at his job.

The Captain reached over and plucked the letter from the scene before opening it and handing it to me.

"It's for you..." She sighed angrily.

I took the note and began reading. I must be popular; two letters in one night.

"False Princess... Know your place or you will end up like Duke Derrock, if that Captain gets in the way, then I'll expose you for the fake that you are..." I read aloud and Athena bristled and seethed in front of me.

"The gall to threaten you..." I heard her mumble.

"Captain..." I stuttered and Athena's golden eyes met mine and I found myself lost in her prowess and beauty once more.

"I apologise for my outburst, Your Regency. Are you well?" Athena stammered, clearly regretting her sudden anger.

"All is well, Captain..." I gulped, "I don't want to do this."

"What do you mean?" Athena gasped, obviously taken aback.

"I wasn't made to be royalty, Athena... I'm just a common barmaid in Aerilon! The lovechild of a king at best! I know little to nothing of court life and if King Gabriel does pass and I'm to rule then I may just lead Azumond into the ground or die trying!" I shuddered, raking my hands through my hair.

Athena gestured for the knight and Xenia to leave and they did so with a courteous nod and the click of the door shutting behind them. Before I knew it, Athena's warmth was radiating through me with the light yet strong touch of her hands on my arms.