A Fool's Tale

Chapter 29 - Unexpected Visitors

When I woke, Talia was gone, and Kyla was leaning against the wall across from me. She stared at me, her expression an equal mixture of fondness and irritation.

I started in surprise.

"It was you, wasn't it?" She accused.

"What was me?"

"You saved King Roland."

I shrugged. There was no point in denying it. Kyla was too sharp to deceive.

"Why'd you do it? What makes you think he's worth risking your life for?"

"I don't know, Kyla. Haven't you ever felt a strong loyalty to anyone or anything?"

She paused in thought. "Maybe, okay, fine. I get it," she exclaimed, exasperated. "Just don't do anything like that again. I don't want to see you get hurt."

There was an awkward pause before I answered. "Don't worry. Master Isidor already told me. I'm lucky to still be his apprentice after my stupidity."

"Yeah, I hear magic's dangerous stuff."

"It's true. Have you ever known any magicians?"

Kyla's gaze shifted away. "There was a time when I lived with some mages, but I'd rather not talk about it."

"Sure. That's fine." I think it was the first time Kyla had ever mentioned even the smallest detail about her past. Perhaps, given space I would learn more, and discover why I felt a connection with her. "You know, I once had a wise person tell me to be proud of my past. Maybe it's something you would feel better about if you told me." I prodded lightly.

Kyla's eyes glittered with amusement. "Nice try." She turned toward the door. "I have to go. Rest up."

I closed my eyes. I still couldn't figure Kyla out. Maybe I never would.

Over the next few days, I stayed abed. My head ached constantly, and the first time I tried to sit up, the room spun so fast I collapsed back onto the mattress. Phoebe brought my meals and Master Isidor checked in on me regularly, although there was nothing he could do about the pain. He said time was the best medicine. I suspected there might be a way to heal myself if I dared enter my mind magic again, but Master Isidor forbade me from making the attempt.

One night, King Roland and Queen Vivien visited me. As usual, I was lying flat in bed, hoping for the day I would wake pain free. I was shocked to see them enter and hastily pushed myself into a sitting position, forcing myself to endure the pain and dizziness of an upright position. The thought of just lying there in front of the king and queen was mortifying. It was likely my first step to true healing, as once I was up for a few minutes, I began to feel a bit better.

"Your majesties," I slowly bobbed my head. Sparks of pain crackled across my temples.

"Good evening, Gael. I understand it is you I have to thank that my husband is alive today," Queen Vivien spoke.

"Oh, I don't know. I'm sure he would have been fine," I mumbled, blushing. It was funny. If I were in my motley as Jangles, I expect I could have laughed and had a witty response for the queen, but I couldn't seem to overcome my natural shy disposition when I was myself. Their presence awed me.

King Roland reached forward and clasped my hand. "The kingdom may not know of the service you have given, and the sacrifice you made, but I will not forget. I'm indebted to you."

My face turned even redder. It didn't seem right for the king and queen to be paying compliments to me. If it weren't for them, I would still be with my uncle.

"I'm just happy you gave me the opportunity to work and live here, your majesties. I couldn't ask for anything more." I lowered my head, in a sad attempt at a bow from my seated position.

Queen Vivien smiled. "I now see why Talia is so fond of you. You are different than so many others around here. Try not to change Gael, though it may be difficult. I foresee you may rise in station one day, and with that will come the lure of power and money."

I nodded. I didn't envision myself ever being tempted by such desires, but I trusted the queen was wise, and would remember her words. I expected them to leave after their expressions of gratitude, and was surprised they stayed far longer, talking about my interests and childhood, and even telling stories about their own lives, binding me ever closer to them. Eventually, they noticed my eyes growing heavy and bid me a good evening.

The memory of their company was something I would always treasure and it was their support that set me on a quicker path to healing, for the next day much of my pain had dissipated. With the aid of Isidor, I was even able to stand beside my bed for the first time since my affliction. It was also the first day I realized the Brimstones may still be in danger. The assassin was at large, and perhaps that threat, more than anything else, gave energy to my limbs, and a greater determination for me to heal. After their visit, I felt more loyal to the king and queen than ever. If they needed my protection, I had to get healthy, and despite Isidor's warnings about being cautious with my magic, I would stop at nothing to keep them safe.