The Last York Prince [AU]

Death

(Melusina sings and Richard is too late)

SOMEWHERE AROUND CHRISTMAS 1495:

Richard was plagued by Melusina in his dreams. During the day, he was often tired and lost focus.

This attracted his mother's attention. Since Lizzie had other engagements, she asked Maggie to inquire on Richard.

Richard smiled, seeing Maggie. He greeted her with a big hug.

"How are you?", asked Maggie.

"Restless lately, but I don't know why", said Richard.

"Why don't we take a walk to the garden?", Maggie suggested.

The two walked around the palace garden. Maggie let her fingers brushed through the colourful petals.

"Did you get my flowers, Maggie?", asked Richard.

"Yes, I did. They're very beautiful and it was thoughtful of you", said Maggie.

Both sat down by the fountain. Maggie combed Richard's hair with her fingers.

"Maggie, can I ask you something?", Richard voiced out.

"What is it?".

"If my father survived that day, do you think he'll love me?".

That caught Maggie off guard. She thought on her words carefully.

"Well, I know he has two more..., illegitimate children, John and Katherine. I do not know much about Katherine, but John was Captain of Calais. That is, until the king removed him from the position. Where he is now? I do not know", said Maggie,

"But I do know this. Your father was a great man. He loves his wife and children, legitimate or not. I know he's watching over us from heaven".

"They said he was using my mother, that he didn't love her. They said..., I'm..., I'm a blasphemy".

"No, you are not! Never think such a thing. Who cares about other people? I'm here, everyone is here to support and love you, Richard", said Maggie.

"Have you visited, Teddy?".

"I have. He's alright".

"I'm worried".

"About what?".

"About a lot of things. I keep..., hearing her sing. It's more frequent than the last time".

"Who's death is she preparing for you?".

"That's what I'm afraid of".

LATER

Jasper found Richard in the library, reading as always. There are times when Richard could finish a few books in a day.

"What are you reading?", Jasper sat down in front of Richard.

"Kings of England", said Richard.

"Who are you reading about?".

"Your brother, Henry VI".

"Do you know what happened to him?".

"Some said he died because of melancholy; his only son died on the battlefield , but people said my father and his brothers ordered his death".

"I never know what happened. I wasn't there. I wish I was, he was my brother after all".

Richard looked around and hoped no one was in the library to eavesdrop. He sighed and closed the book.