13Afterward
Wind whipped through Nina's hair, catching the edges of the coat that she wore across her shoulders and making her seem like a bird rushing across the otherwise serene landscape.
The Quicksilver District of Gwenael housed the Holy Sacellum and was the home of the priests and acolytes that worked there. It was part of the inner ring of the city, and was one of the smaller districts because of that. However, it was also so idyllic and beautiful inside that it seemed larger than itself. Surrounding the Sacellum were beautiful and lush gardens, sparkling fountains, and shaded gazebos. It was an area that was intended to bring peace and calm to those that visited.
Nina's quick movements as she raced down the smooth, bright stone paths was in direct contrast to the otherwise tranquil scene.
There was only one port in the Quicksilver District, and it was typically only used for people that weren't able to walk there on their own feet. Or, in today's case, to see off the visitors that had been staying here for the last week or so.
A calmly walking figure, bearing a cane and wearing a bright, white robe, came into her sight and Nina put her feet down, coming to a screeching halt. She skidded right past him, turning and flaring out her skirt and coat as she looked back at Master Eneas.
The master of the Sacellum smiled at her peacefully, his slow stride completely unaffected by her sudden appearance.
"Good morning, Nina." He greeted pleasantly as he moved down the path.
Nina smiled and relaxed at the sight of him, waiting for him to catch up so they could walk together down the path towards the dock. She had been afraid that she was going to be late, but if he was still here, then she knew she still had time.
"Are they already on board?" She asked immediately, getting right to the point.
"Their things are being loaded up. What few things they have, anyway. The girls are already waiting for take off. They might already be gone if it weren't for my knee."
Nina smiled. She knew better than to think that was true. Master Eneas was old, and age had already begun to weigh him down. However, he could move fast when required. The slow pace she had found him taking was a leisurely stroll to him. A way for him to buy time so she could make it here before take off.
"I'm sorry I'm so late. Master Hue wouldn't wrap the new bandages any faster."
Master Eneas waved her words away. "Your health is important, Nina. I see that you're running again."
"Yes, sir." She nodded, smiling. "I feel better every day."
"Good. I'm glad."
They fell silent as they continued walking. The port was on the other side of the apartments belonging to the priests and acolytes. It was accessible through the main street that cut through the apartments. On the far side was the Holy Library which housed the full and complete new doctrine. And, in the basement levels, the old doctrine as well.
A boat was already docked on the port. The style was clearly different from the more rounded boats native to Gwenael. This one, made from a brighter wood and with a more colorful sail, hailed from the Aqua Isles. Seeing it brought back pangs of nostalgia.
"It was quite ingenious of you," Eneas gave her a smile, "to think of sending them to the Isles."
Audi, Adilla, and Nellie were all standing at the base of the port. Even just in the short time since leaving Gascony, they already looked exponentially healthier. Their hair and skin were clean, the linen they wore was soft and comfortable. They had shoes on their feet. Even better, they had food in their bellies and Nellie was starting to gain weight again.
Nina walked away from Master Eneas to approach them. The sound of her footsteps caught Nellie's attention first. The little girl turned and beamed before tugging on Adilla's sleeve. The crazed girl turned slowly and stared at Nina. Even her eyes seemed less manic these days.
Audi turned as well, but quickly looked away again.
"Have you come to see us off?" Nellie asked. Her voice, even when just speaking, was melodious and calming.
Nina nodded, kneeling down to hug her. "I told you I would be here, didn't I?"
Nellie squeezed her tight. She didn't release her hold until Nina stood straight and gave Adilla a smile. The mad girl didn't quite return it, but she blinked rapidly, which seemed to be a positive reaction from her. At least, she did it whenever they thought she was happy.
Nina looked lastly to Audi. She had been refusing to look at Nina or Erec since they arrived, despite how often they visited. Guilt or shame hid her gaze from them.
"You will really like my family, Audi." Nina told her softly. "My father is going to be there at the docks when you arrive."
Audi didn't say anything. Nina just smiled at the back of her head.
"You'll love the Aqua Isles. It's summer there nearly year round. And the fish that come from the sea are the most flavorful you'll have ever eaten."
Audi took in a ragged breath. "Nina... I..."
She couldn't finish the words. Nina reached out and touched her shoulder with a smile.
"Don't rush yourself. I'll come visit the Isles soon to check on you. We can talk then. Or any time after. You can always write me."
Audi didn't move for a second. Then, almost imperceptibly, she nodded.
Nina hugged all three of them again before they loaded up onto the boat. Then she stepped back with Master Eneas to watch them leave. Nellie was waving at her from the rails. Audi was standing beside her. She didn't wave. However, as they were turning to take off towards the south, she finally looked down and caught Nina's eye.
"You've done well for them, Nina." Eneas assured her, touching her arm. "They'll be treated like nobles in the Isles. My compatriots there have already assured me that they all have a place in the Sacellum waiting. And, your family has volunteered to watch over them. They will have everything they need for their minds and spirits and bodies to heal."
"I know that." Nina smiled wistfully down at her hands. "I guess I'm just... worried. I did do the right thing by sending them to the Isles, didn't I?"
"I certainly think so. Asking them to remain here, in a place so very different from Gascony, would be too cruel. The Isles will give them a bridge between their old teachings and ours. They revere paladins just as we do, and those three will be treated well."
"Are they really paladins though? They're not like me or the others."
"No, they're not." Eneas tapped is cane against the ground. "And, I do believe the Lord knew what he was doing when he made it that way. Their powers are so very different. To be honest with you, from what we have been able to pull from Adilla, I don't think she even has a power."
Nina frowned. "She doesn't?"
Eneas shook his head. "From what I can gather, she was the most beautiful girl in her village. So beautiful, in fact, that she tempted the priest there into... well. When he was brought to task for the crime, he claimed that her beauty was too bewitching. He pushed the blame onto her and she was labeled as an unnatural. I don't believe she ever was, though."
"That's horrible." Nina felt a chill go down her spine.
"As for Audi and Nellie, well, you can clearly see the differences in your powers. A girl who cries gemstones, and a girl who sings you to peace. I've had her sing for us. She never once robbed us of our free will. Her voice is soothing though. To sooth and to enrich. The Lord has His plans, and I do believe that He knows Gascony does not need warrior paladins as we do. He's trying to give them something else. Something they refuse to recognize."
Nina frowned, looking back the rapidly sinking dot that was the boat. "Will there be other girls like them, do you think?"
"Other paladins born in Gascony? Probably. Only two real paladins in the entire country. That is how it normally goes. Except during times of trouble, the Lord rarely gives more than one."
"If there are others... shouldn't we try to help them, too?"
Eneas gave her a smile. "I don't disagree with your decision to bring these three here. You did the right thing. However, I also believe we should trust in the Lord. If He's trying to convince Gascony to accept paladins as normal, natural, and right, then it is not our place to interfere."
Nina sighed. "It's complicated, isn't it?"
"The Lord's plans usually are. By the way," he gave her a smile, "is that a new coat?"
"Yes. Do you like it?"
"It's a lovely shade of maroon. It goes well with your coloring."
Nina beamed, warmed by the compliment. "Well, I should get back. I have to go check on Manon. Her new instructor arrived yesterday, and her lesson is going to begin soon."
Eneas nodded and wished her well. He smiled as she turned and began running back across Quicksilver towards the elevators that connected the district to the Royal Complex. It was nice to be able to run freely again. If Nina was honest, she was probably doing it more than she needed to only because the restrictions of Gascony and her own injuries had finally been lifted from her.
The training room that Nina aimed towards in the palace was already full when she arrived. Manon, her instructor, Monsieur Damien, and Queen Radelle were already there. The air was tense and strained but eerily silent when Nina walked inside. Manon's arms were crossed, Radelle's jaw was set and stern, meanwhile Damien was grinning ear to ear.
"Lady Benoite!" He greeted brightly, his attitude quite at odds with the atmosphere.
"Damien." Nina beamed, giving him a small hug. "Thank you so much for coming."
"Nonsense. I'm glad to hear you calling upon me. I'm quite eager to get to work. Eh, but I do believe that we're having a bit of a problem here." He pointed to the queen and princess.
Nina stepped up between them, eyes moving from one hard set face to the other. "Is there something wrong?" She asked carefully.
"No." Manon said, tossing back her hair. "We're fine."
Nina made a sound of agreement that still sounded disbelieving.
"Nina, are you sure about this?" Radelle turned to her. "You don't really have to take over Manon's education. And, I've never even heard of Monsieur Damien before."
"He's an excellent dance instructor, your majesty." Nina assured her. "And, Manon promised that she would behave and follow her lessons. Or, did you forget, Manon?"
"I didn't forget." She grumbled unhappily. She had dressed in her dance shoes and a dress she didn't mind moving in. Still, returning to dance lessons after everything that had happened...
She sighed. No matter how much she did not want to return to this pointless, aimless life, she had given her word. And, for some reason, she no longer felt the need to escape from this place. She wasn't happy here, but she appreciated that this was something that she needed to learn.
"Mother, really," she looked to the queen, "you don't have to stand watch. I'm going to do it."
Radelle gave her daughter a doubtful gaze.
When they had first returned to the capital, Cyrus and Radelle had been so happy to see both of their children alive and, relatively, unharmed that they hadn't been able to bring themselves to punish Manon for stowing away on Nina's boat.
However, now that had some time had passed and they were beginning to return to their ordinary routines, Radelle was reluctant to trust her wayward daughter. Though Manon was saying she would listen and behave, she had heard similar lies in the past.
"Your majesty." Nina gave her a calm smile. "Please, leave Manon to me. We've come to a... mutual understanding since we've been gone."
Radelle still looked uncertain. But she sighed. "Very well. I'll leave her to you, Nina. Manon... Please, just give me one day of peace, hm?"
Manon frowned. "Am I just a terror in you people's minds?"
"Yes." Nina grinned, earning a dull look.
Radelle left slowly, giving a long look behind her at Manon. The door shut softly and only once she had walked away from it did Nina turn to Manon.
"So, you really will behave?"
"I already said that I would."
"I know, I know. You just don't have the best track record." Nina grinned.
Manon grumbled. "This is ridiculous. For once, I'm trying to be good, and all anyone can do is make snarky comments."
"Trust is earned, Manon, and you haven't earned any around here. Furthermore, it will take some time until you do. However, I have faith in you. I know what you're capable of. More importantly, you now know what you're capable of."
Manon sighed, turning into the room. "Fine, fine. Let's get this over with. Damien, was it?"
"You can call me master, dear. I am your teacher." He gave her a bright smile.
"Right. Master Damien, what dance style will be learning today?"
"A very old and respected one. Oh, did you want to stay and watch, Lady Benoite?"
"Not hardly. I've seen enough of these lessons. I have to go meet Sybille for the daily reports. Manon, I expect to hear good things from Damien."
"You'll hear something, I'm sure."
Nina started backing up. "And, once you've mastered everything Damien can teach you, I'll find you a new, even better instructor."
She tried not to grumble and instead sent the paladin a smile.
"Hey, Nina, is that a new coat?" Manon called out, just before she left.
Nina grinned back, hand on the door latch. "Why, yes, it is."
"I like it." Manon gave her a smile.
Nina smiled back before shutting the door. Manon turned around with another soft sigh. Just one last one, at least.
Manon tried not to pout. She really did. She took in a deep breath, squaring her shoulders, as she prepared to face this dance lesson like a soldier. She just had to grin and bear it. If nothing else, like Addie said, dance would make her more graceful, and that was a useful skill.
The door shut behind Nina and Damien smiled at her. "Are you ready to begin, my dear?"
"Might as well. What position are we starting with?"
"No, no, no." He shook his head, grinning. "I'm afraid, you're not appropriately dressed for this lesson. You need your dancing shoes."
Manon frowned down at her feet. "I'm wearing my dancing shoes already."
"I have better shoes for you." He turned and walked over to a table, upon which he had set the bag that he brought with him to the lesson. From inside, he pulled out a long, narrow box. It didn't look like it was wide enough to hold shoes, and Manon frowned.
Manon watched curiously as he returned, stroking the box.
"Nina has left your instruction to me. And, I am going to teach you the most beautiful, most deadly form of dance that there is." He opened the box, revealing its contents. "Your shoes, miss."
Manon gasped at the sight of the beautiful twin daggers resting on blue velvet. They gleamed brightly in the sunlight coming through the wide window. She picked one up reverently, admiring the smooth and thin body. It wasn't like any dagger she had ever seen.
"A princess learns to walk and talk and dance as royalty does. A warrior learns to fight and grapple and shoot like a fighter does." He lifted the velvet bed, revealing twin leather vambraces that he plucked out and began attaching to her forearms. "You shall be a combination of the two. A princess who will walk and fight like royalty, who grapples and dances like a warrior. You wish to learn to be rough and tumble, but you have been barred from doing so. So, instead, you shall learn the elegant, graceful, and deadly arts that hide in shadows, and are concealed by laces and ribbons."
He tugged her sleeves down, hiding the daggers and vambraces under the fabric. Manon stared in awe at the way they were hidden so wonderfully.
"Don't be fooled now, my princess." He grinned at her. "These arts are harder to learn, because you must conceal them. You won't carry a large sword, but if you are careful, you will never be unarmed. Are you ready to learn to dance?"
Manon lowered her arms and bowed her head, struggling and failing to hide the excited smile on her face. "Yes, master."
Leaving from the knight's quarters, Erec stretched his arms over his head. The fresh sunshine on his face was invigorating after so long indoors.
Erec's fighting force had been recalled from the front lines since he had been in Gascony. Rainier had taken command of them in his absence, but they had finished out their remaining time and had been replaced so that they could come home to their families. At least, until their next campaign took them away again.
Erec had been spending the last few days gathering what remained of his force and building up those ranks that remained. During this time of war, those who wanted and were capable of joining the military had already done so. However, since he had been gone, more young men and women had come of age and had joined. Fresh out of training, they were ready to take their places amongst the ranks of an army. He had been happy to take them on.
He had also needed to rebuild the commanding ranks. Most of the higher officers were promoted from those that were already in his army, but there had been a few who had earned their knighthood in the war that needed new ranks to serve. He had come to the knight's quarters today in order to recruit them and it had taken more time than he had anticipated.
As he was walking across the Royal Complex, aiming to return to the palace so he could meet with Sybille for the daily reports, he caught sight of Odilon walking along the path. He was reading a stack of papers that had put a frown on his face and pulled a furrow between his brows.
"Odilon!" Erec called out his name, catching his attention.
The lord turned his eyes, lowering the papers. He gave Erec a smile. "Oh, your highness. Good morning. I didn't expect to see you today."
"What's that you're reading there, if you don't mind me asking?"
Odilon grimaced, holding up the papers again. "Just some reports from my businesses on the border."
"The war eating into trade again?"
"Actually, no. I think I've got those trade routes and stores pretty well stabilized. As much as can be, considering it's an active war zone. No, these are from the Lloegyrian border."
"What's happening on the Lloegyrian border?"
"Pirate attacks, mostly." Odilon sighed, rubbing his temple as he turned and began walking. Erec stayed in step with him.
"Pirate attacks? Isn't it getting a bit late in the year for that?" Pirates were rarely active during late fall or at all during winter. The colder season brought with it lean times for pirates and citizens alike and the harsher winds made it more difficult to operate airships.
In fact, Erec was looking forward to the winter. The war would likely slow down some with the colder weather. That was true in all historical wars. The weather made men less likely to want to fight and the cold made it harder to obtain the food and supplies needed to support entire armies. The war wouldn't end, and there would still likely be battles, but if this war followed historical precedence, they might have something of a reprieve.
"It is a bit late." Odilon shrugged. "But, it's like this every year. Near the end of the season, there's a bit of a surge in attacks. Like they're trying to stockpile for the winter."
"Well, if I can be of any help..."
"Thank you, your highness. It's just another thing to deal with. I'm used to it though. You don't have to worry yourself over it."
Erec grinned. "You're a close friend of the family, Odilon. I'd be happy to help you."
Odilon nodded gratefully. "Thank you, again. It's not a problem yet. Just an annoyance. The war on top of everything is making it all worse."
Erec frowned, looking away and feeling almost guilty. As though it was his fault that the war hadn't been brought to an end already. Odilon shook his head, forcing a smile back onto his face.
"Never mind. You and I haven't really had a chance to speak since you returned from Gascony. I'm glad to see you back unharmed. We were all really worried when we heard that you had been captured. Each day that passed only seemed to make it worse."
Erec smiled sheepishly. "I'm sorry for making everyone worry. I can't say that I really regret getting to see Gascony, though. It's offered me an entirely new perspective on life."
"Always a valuable experience." Odilon was back to reading his reports, his voice was far away as he focused on the words.
Erec grinned. "So, where are you heading, then?"
"Hm? Oh, just to see your father. I know we don't have many people to send, but I would like to buy a few soldiers from him. Just until this end of season rush is over."
A frown pulled at Erec's brow. "You said it wasn't that bad."
"Oh, it's not. Comparatively." Odilon hasted to reassure him. "It's not the first time I've needed some help to keep things under control. Like I said, the war is just making everything harder. The guards and pirate hunters that usually keep things together have mostly been incorporated into the fighting. That leaves less to protect people from the pirates."
"Well, I think father is going to be at the daily report reading with us. You're welcome to come along, if you like, but he won't be done for some time."
"No. No, thank you." Odilon grinned. "I've been to the war meetings before. For such an important, life-or-death topic, you people sure know how to make it boring. No, I'd rather wait for him in his study. Do you mind telling him that I'll be there?"
"Absolutely, not." Erec looked at his face for a moment, frowning. "Odilon, I do believe I owe you an apology."
"Hm? For what?" He looked surprised, and Erec couldn't blame him.
"I suppose, for myself. I did nothing to you. But, before I left for war, I found myself thinking some... less than kind thoughts about you. And, for that, I'm sorry."
"Well, I accept your apology, I suppose. Though, I don't know what I did to earn your ire."
"It's nothing you did. It was my fault. I was jealous and being unreasonable because of it. I just want you to know that I apologize for that."
Odilon appeared genuinely startled. "Jealous? Of me? Whatever for?"
"It's silly in retrospect, but I was jealous over Nina. Of the easy relationship you had with her. I wanted that for myself, and you already had it."
"Nina?" Odilon stared at him. "You were jealous of my relationship with her?"
"I was. You didn't deserve my unkind thoughts. Which is why I'm apologizing."
Odilon started laughing at him. "You don't have to worry about Nina. She is a friend to me, and nothing more. A valuable friend, to be sure. But, that is all. I'm afraid, she's not at all to my tastes."
Erec grinned. "Thank you. Though, is there anyone suited to your tastes? I haven't seen you giving anyone, woman or man, any special attention. I've heard some people spreading rumors about themselves with you, but they were always quickly debunked. Are you uninterested in romance?"
"It's not that I'm uninterested in it. More to say, I don't want all the trouble involved in it. Partners require an investment of time that I don't have to spare. Invariably, they begin to make demands of me that I have no desire to fulfill. I'm afraid that relationships are not worth the effort they take to maintain."
Erec grimaced at the pleasantly spoken words. "My, what a grim view of love."
Odilon shrugged. "Well, it is true. Anyway, I'd better finish reading these. What time is the war meeting starting?"
"Soon, actually. I'd better get going. Nice speaking to you, Odilon."
Erec waived him off a the two of them walked into the palace. Odilon went one way, seeking the elevator that would be closest to his father's study. Erec, meanwhile took the closest one to the entry doors.
"Thank you for bringing this here for me, Ferrant." Nina smiled at the royal blacksmith as he placed one of the two long sword boxes he had brought with him down on the table at the far end of the war room. "And, thanks for making it so quickly. I didn't think you would be able to finish it in just a week."
"The blade was already mostly finished, to be honest with you." Ferrant shrugged. "Most of the work was done on your hilt."
"You already had the blade?"
"I had the rough shape. I tend to keep them around just in case. People tend to break weapons rather suddenly and need a new one quickly. Or, allow their enemies to take them." He gave her a grin and she grimaced sheepishly.
"I'm sorry."
"No, no. It's fine. It was your sword. Do with it as you please."
He opened the box on the new sword, revealing the masterpiece he had crafted for her. The bright, shimmering gold of the handguard seemed almost too large for the long, thin blade with runic designs down the heart of the steel. Glimmering gems, amethyst and diamond, sparkled along the edge of the guard.
Nina sighed, impressed, as she lifted it reverently from its velvet bed. She lifted it to the light coming from the window, admiring its weight and shape.
"Beautiful. You're an artist, Ferrant." She admired, lowering it gently to hold in both hands.
Ferrant beamed, grabbed the sheath that he had placed down beside the sword before closing her box and placing the second one he had brought on top of it. "Are you going to pass on the name again?"
"My duty still guides me, so yes. Devoir III. I didn't think I'd be having to get a new sword so quickly."
"Try not to need a fourth one anytime soon. You're not the only paladin I need to outfit, you know."
Nina chuckled guiltily as he passed her the sheath. She slid the sword into its home, admiring the craftsmanship of the delicate wood and gold inlay before tying it to her waist.
"You really have a gift, Ferrant."
He smiled under her praise. "Thank you. Erec's coming as well, isn't he?"
"Yes, he should be here soon. Is that his sword?"
"It is. I thought it would be just easier to bring you them both at the same time. Did he really break the last one clean in half?"
"Sorry." She grimaced sheepishly again.
Ferrant sighed, smiling. "It's all right. I'm just teasing. I would rather it be one of my swords that breaks, instead of one of you. Metal is easy to replace. By the way, is that a new coat?"
"Yes. Do you like it." She lowered her arms, allowing it to fall over them so he could see the full design and cut.
"It's quite lovely." Firmin nodded in approval.
Nina gave him a bright smile. As she was about to thank him again, the door to the war room opened and the king and queen stepped inside. Cyrille was beaming from ear to ear. He waved at the two of them brightly.
"Nina. Ferrant. Great to see you two."
"Your majesty." Ferrant bowed his head respectfully. "Nina, would you mind giving Erec his sword? I should really get back to work."
"Oh, but don't you want to give it to him yourself? You worked so hard on it."
"That's all right. If he doesn't like something about it, you can tell him to contact me."
"That wasn't what I meant." Nina frowned.
"Please, you'll be doing me a favor by allowing me to escape." Ferrant shifted uncomfortably, stealing a look at the king and queen. Despite being the royal blacksmith, Ferrant had no formal title. He was a commoner by definition. As a result, he had always been slightly uncomfortable when he was around high ranking individuals, especially if he happened to be in opulent surroundings at the same time, as he was currently.
"Something I said?" Cyrille asked, grinning as Ferrant hastened to make his escape. He didn't appear bothered by the quick retreat.
"Sybille just stepped out." Nina told the two of them as she walked towards the large map table that currently held known troop deployments for Vasconia and Gascony both.
It disturbed Nina how much further the line representing Gascony had managed to progress since she had been here last. It seemed to have finally stalled out, what with the imminent coming of winter and Cesaire and Didier's absence from the fields, but it was still frighteningly far.
As Cyrille decided to be nosy and snoop around at his son's new sword, Radelle joined Nina at the map table. She stood at her side and frowned with her down at the table.
"It's not looking good, is it?" She asked softly.
"It will get better." Nina's tone was certain, even if her voice warbled slightly. The lines had reached into the Great Plains at this point. Even if winter wasn't arriving, they would be stalled out by Vasconia's own landscape.
"I hear that Erec will be returning to the front lines soon." Radelle's voice was conversational, but held a tight worry. Nina couldn't blame her for it either. Still...
"We can't keep him from fighting for his own people. Besides, winter is almost here. He'll be safer. Relatively. We have to have faith in our future king."
Radelle lifted her gaze to Nina's face. "I heard that he's made overtures to you regarding marriage."
Nina's breath caught in her throat, but she couldn't very well deny it. "He has, your majesty."
"And? Have you responded to him."
"I... didn't say no." Nina didn't tell her that she had basically already agreed. In the heat of a tense moment. Erec hadn't yet brought it back up to her, and she was now worried that he hadn't heard her or had changed his mind.
"That doesn't mean you said yes." Radelle tilted her head curiously.
Nina blew out a stuttered breath, unsure of what to say. "You're... all right with it?"
"You're asking me?" Radelle raised a brow. "I'm not the one who would be marrying you."
"But I would be the one succeeding you." Nina looked to her, frowning. "Am I really the person that you want to pass your legacy onto?"
"My goodness. How grandiose your thoughts are." Radelle chuckled. "Succession and legacy? I think you're over complicating a very simple matter."
"It's hardly simple."
"It really is. Becoming queen or king or what have you is no different from any other task. You might be lost in the beginning, but you find a way to make yourself suited to it. Do you know the only question I asked myself when Cyrille brought up the topic of marriage to me?"
Nina shook her head, waiting.
"I thought, 'Do I have the wherewithal to deal with this idiot for a lifetime?'" Radelle grinned back to where Cyrille was leaned over the open sword box, smiling within. "That's really all a marriage is, Nina. It's not romance or love, nor is it duty or honor. It's about finding a partner in life that will help see you through good times and bad."
The door opened and Erec came walking in. He beamed at Nina, taking a step in her direction before he spotted his father over her shoulder, lifting his sword.
"Father, is that mine?" He asked, irritated as he walked past her.
Cyrille jumped, dropping the sword into the box and slamming it shut. Far too late. Nina started chuckling as Radelle rolled her eyes. Erec was grumbling to his father the queen turned back to Nina with a long suffering smile.
"See what I mean? An idiot."
"A royal idiot." Nina corrected, frowning. "Weren't you at all scared about becoming queen?"
"Well, yes. A bit. After I agreed to marry him and I realized what that entailed. Oh, but we had his mother there to help me. I was already nobility, but there was still a great deal to being queen that I had to learn. She saw me through all of it. Just as I will see you. If you agree, that is." She grinned at Nina peacefully before turning her eyes back to the table.
Nina stared past her to where Erec was jerking his sword from his apologetic father's hand.
"Really? You didn't even give me a chance to look at it." He grumbled.
Erec looked down from his father, taking the opportunity to do so now.
This sword was completely different from his lost Douleur Exquise. The hand guard was larger, now forged from heavier gold in a long, swooping pattern. There was still an amethyst stone at the hilt, but it was now housed in a more solid cage of circular gold. Erec beamed at the exquisite blade as he turned it around in the light, not unlike Nina had.
"Douleur Exquise II?" Cyrille asked, beaming.
"I think not, father." Erec grinned, lowering the sword and picking up the sheath. "I do believe that I shall have to change the name."
"Oh? To what?"
Erec looked over to where Nina was conversing in hushed tones with the queen, the two of them pointing to different places on the map.
"Amour Exquise." He said simply, smiling.
Cyrille made a face. "My boy, you are bad at naming things. Do me a favor, and let Nina be the one who names my grandchildren, eh?"
"Father." Erec chuckled, tying his sword to his waist. "We haven't even agreed on that yet."
"Well, what's taking her so long? Nina! Is my son not good enough for you?"
The shouted question, said exactly as Sybille was opening the door to come inside, made Nina blush fiery red.
"Your majesty!" She cried out, trying to cover her face
Erec tried to glare at his father, but the effect was greatly reduced by the grin that he fought to keep off his face - unsuccessfully. Nina was simply adorable when she blushed like that. It made him wish that they were alone, so he could tease her further.
"Should I come back?" Sybille asked calmly, pointing over shoulder.
"No, no. Come in." Radelle waved her forward. "Where did you go?"
"I forgot these reports in my room." Sybille shrugged, lifting the papers held in the crook of her arm so they could see. "These are a few days old, but they're important, so I figured that I should bring them anyway since we're all together again."
They all gathered together around the map table. Sybille, having already read the reports, new and old, passed them over to Nina to read aloud to the others as she began adjusting the position of the various troop deployments to match the current known status.
"How soon will your troops be ready for deployment, Erec?" Cyrille asked, his face as serious as the subject they had changed to.
"A few days. But, if you need us to move fast, we can rush things."
"There doesn't seem to be a need for that." Sybille assured him. There hadn't been a great many changes to make. Some land had been reclaimed since Colette had returned to her place at the front lines, but other than that, things remained as they were.
"We won't have time to perform any major military maneuvers before the winter storms makes the barrier mountains too dangerous to fly near." Nina said as Erec came to her side. "With Antonin Pass in their hands, they won't need to worry about getting supplies into the country though."
"Winter is still dangerous, even in the Pass." Cyrille shook his head. "If a large storm were to hit, even the Pass would become, well, impassable."
"Could we use that to our advantage?" Erec asked, turning to Sybille. "If we waited for a winter storm to close the Pass, could we then attack their troops?"
"Attack them where?" Sybille asked calmly. "Their lines are spread out rather far. And, don't forget, any storm large enough to hamper them will also hamper us."
"That's no reason we can't use the winter to slowly chip away at their lines." Nina said, grabbing onto Erec's idea. "If we wait for a winter storm to close the Pass, we can then begin eating away at their lines at these three points here. Using Colette, Lea, and Erec at each spot, when the Pass is closed, we can start regaining the ground. Even if it's only in increments."
Erec was trying to focus on her words, he really was. However, hearing her so easily add his name to the list of people defending the front lines made a tingle of pleasure go down his spine. Having her take his plan and push it forward, adapting and improving it, only made him more convinced that the two of them would be excellent partners.
They hadn't had time to talk, not since returning to Gwenael. There had been so many things to attend to upon arriving. Nina had been forced to remain in bed by Master Hue, the paladins' personal physician, until her legs healed some. Erec had needed to place himself out in the public eye as quickly as possible, to assure his people that he was alive and well. Their hopes rested on him, and seeing him, alive and well, was important.
The extreme difference in schedules had made it difficult for Erec to go see Nina. By the time he got the opportunity, it was always late. He hadn't wanted to disturb her rest. She needed that more than she needed him clinging onto her.
But it had been so long already. This war meeting wasn't the first time they had seen each other since they had been back, but it was already the longest.
He forced himself to return his focus to the topics at hand. His future queen was important, but so was ending this war. And, if they could use small chances during the winter to enact big changes, they could turn the tide for when spring returned and the battles began anew.
Halfway through the meeting, to Erec's surprise, Sybille brought up the subject of the pirates on the Lloegyrian border.
"How did you know about that?" He asked her, surprised.
"Reports." She said simply, frowning. "How did you know about that?"
"I ran into Odilon on the way here. He told me. He's waiting for you in your office, father, to talk about it. He said it wasn't that bad."
"It's not. Comparatively." Sybille shrugged, sounding similar to Odilon in her assessment. "There have been worse numbers in the past. It seems, however, with most of the soldiers and pirate hunters focused on the war, there are less to protect this side of our border."
"How bad is it?" Radelle asked, frowning. "Winter is almost here, and that will bring a stop to the raids. If we can wait until then..."
"I want to agree with you, your majesty." Sybille frowned, walking around to the Lloegyr side of the map table. "But the only reason that the raids stop in the winter is because the prizes gathered aren't worth the fight required to take them anymore. Without any soldiers around to stop the fighting, I don't know how long the raids will continue."
Just like that, the war meeting became a discussion on how to bring an end to the unexpected pirate problem the war had brought to them. Though Lloegyr, by all accounts from their queen, was staying out of the war between Vasconia and Gascony, pirates were a different matter. They plagued both kingdoms equally.
Cyrille had a scribe fetched and dictated to him a letter to be taken to the Lloegyrian queen requesting her aid when it came to the pirates. They would do what they could as well, but their resources were strained already.
After the message was sent and a plan made to try and gain as much ground back before winter hit as possible, the war meeting was adjourned. Cyrille and Radelle, who both now needed to turn their attention to Odilon and matters of state respectively, left rather quickly afterwards. Sybille remained behind so that she could catalog the latest reports for the records.
Erec turned to give Nina a glance, hoping to catch her eye. She was too focused on frowning at the map table to see it.
"Nina?" He called gently.
"Yes?" She was reluctant to turn from the map, but did so after a second. She found herself immediately trapped in Erec's gaze. "Erm, y-yes?"
He hadn't really had a plan in mind when he had called her out. He only knew that they were in the same space with finally some time to talk. He just blurted out the first question that came into his mind to keep her from looking away.
"How did the, er, takeoff go this morning? You were seeing off Audi and them, right? Did everything go well?"
"Oh, that. Yes." Nina smiled wistfully, turning her eyes down to where the Aqua Isles were carved out at the far southern portion of the map. Far from Gascony, far from the war. The small island nation was spread out over multiple small and large islands and was a strange blend of Gasconian and Vasconian cultures that shouldn't exist, yet did so effortlessly.
"I want to go see them soon." Erec said, surprising her into turning her eyes back to him. He was smiling at the islands as she had been. "Just to make sure that they're settling in. I suppose it will have to wait until after my next campaign."
Nina floundered at his words. "I, er... I didn't know you cared."
"Well, they are your new sisters, aren't they?" He grinned at her. "And there's still the matter of meeting the rest of your family."
Nina smiled, leaning in a bit closer to him.
"Hey." Sybille's calm voice interrupted before anything could happen.
They both turned to find her giving them dull looks, her arms laden down with papers.
"I don't care if you want to make eyes at each other, but can you do it somewhere besides the war room? I have to actually work in here."
Nina blushed pink as Erec chuckled sheepishly. They shared a look and Erec gestured with his head towards the door. She fell in behind him. As the door was shutting, Sybille had already turned her attention back to work.
"Does she ever relax?" Erec asked, grinning back at the door.
"I've never seen it happen before." Nina shrugged. "I appreciate her dedication though. Things would be much harder without her."
Erec nodded before turning to walk down the hall. Nina fell in step beside him and Erec smiled at her as they strolled as though they had all the time in the world.
"What else do you have to do today?" He asked, genuinely curious about her schedule.
Nina rubbed the back of her neck. "Well, I still have to read the reports from the city guard. With less people to patrol the streets, crime rates have started to rise. I'd like to nip that in the bud before it becomes a major problem."
"Do you need any help?"
"Oh, no. I have this under control. The city's safety is my responsibility, I can handle it."
"Yes, I know that." He gave her a smile. "But, that doesn't mean I can't help you if you need it. Are you getting a headache?"
Surprised by the seemingly random question, Nina lowered her hand from where she had still been massaging her own neck. "No, why do you ask?"
"You get headaches when you're stressed."
"Do I look stressed?"
"You were rubbing your neck." Erec reached out and gently pushed aside the bright strands of her platinum hair, revealing the side of her neck to his eyes. He had the strong urge to lean over and kiss it right there in the open hall where anyone could see.
He could only imagine the blush that would paint her cheeks if he tried. It seemed honestly worth the anger she would direct at him to see that blush.
Before he could try, she was shaking her head in response to his question. "No, I feel fine, actually. I haven't had a headache in a while."
"I'm glad."
Erec then hesitated, unexpectedly nervous. He gave her a look out of the side of his eye as they continued walking. He hadn't tried anything since they arrived. However, now seemed like the perfect time to see if anything had changed.
Reaching out, Erec put his arm around Nina's shoulders. He pulled her close, smiling forward, acting as natural as he could.
Nina blinked at his hand where it rested on her arm, then turned to look at him. A grin settled over her face as she leaned into his side, putting her arm around his waist in turn. Erec's smile widened as he tightened his grip just slightly.
"I've missed you," he said simply, nearly whispering the words.
Nina bit her lip, nerves eating up her belly. But, the truth of it was-
"I've missed you, too." She lowered her eyes, embarrassed. "We've been so busy since we got back, we've barely had the chance to say two words to each other."
She had noticed. He wasn't the only one affected.
"I kind of regret that now, actually."
He had been so happy that she had admitted to missing him that he hadn't expected her to expand on that thought. Her regret caught his eye and he frowned at her. She shrugged under his arms, smiling sadly.
"You'll be leaving soon to go back to the war front, and I have to stay here to look after Gwenael and protect their majesties. We'll be apart for months at the least."
"Yes, but we knew that would happen." Erec frowned despite his attempt at comforting her. It hadn't escaped his notice that he was going to leave her again so soon after arriving. They didn't have the luxury of allowing him to remain here, enjoying a decadent life, when the Gasconites were trying to take advantage of the last of the autumn days to push forward and secure their already strong foothold into Vasconia.
"I'm still rather... sad." Nina frowned at him.
He gave her a smile. "Well, when I return, we'll go to the Aqua Isles together."
"Then, you'll return to the war."
His smile turned sour. "Yes, I suppose I will.
Nina came a halt, forcing him to do so as well. He turned, looking around to face her fully. She had lowered her arm from his waist and instead taken his hand.
"I don't... want you to go." She frowned at herself, at the admission. "It's wrong of me, and I know that I can't keep you here, but I dearly wish that I could."
"Believe me, Nina, nothing would make me happier than to stay." He interlocked his fingers with hers and held on tight. "But, if I don't go, that will only prolong the war. The sooner we end it, the sooner we can be together."
"I know that." Intellectually, she knew that. Part of her, an extremely selfish part, still wanted to keep here him despite everything she had learned in Gascony.
Erec smiled, releasing her hands so he could cup her face. "Will you write to me, Nina? I don't just mean military reports or orders. I mean letters, so that I know you're thinking of me. Messages just so you can tell me about banal things that have nothing to do with war or battles."
She looked surprised. "You want to hear about such trivialities?"
"It's not trivial. It's as vital to me as my heartbeat. It will remind me why I'm fighting when the blood of battle threatens to wash my purpose away. It will give me a reason to stand and fight when I'm too tired to move. I want your sweet words to comfort me in the dark nights when we're apart and remind me of you in every wondrously painful way."
Nina chuckled, surprised and dismayed. "That makes it sound so horrible."
"It's not. Believe me, it's not." Erec rested his forehead against hers. You would not believe how much comfort even the orders you used to send me could be. In your own handwriting. Knowing that it came from you only made me long to see you more."
Nina smiled. "And, what will you write me in return?"
"I will write... every dream that I have for our future." His eyes closed, picturing it even now. "I'll think of our life together and how perfect it will be and I will tell you of that. I'll tell you of the plans for our kingdom and our family. I'll remind myself, as I'm reminding you, of everything that waits for us on the other side of this war."
Nina was looking away from him, but he could see on the side of her face the smile that she was biting in a failed attempt to bring under control.
Lifting his head, he looked around the deserted hallway. Just because there wasn't anyone here now, however, didn't mean no that no one was incoming.
Lowering his arms, he took her by the hand and began leading her away. He heard a brief sound of confusion, but she didn't fight him as he dragged her off down the hall.
The Grosamadour Palace of Vasconia was an enormous marvel of architecture. It was big enough to be a city on its own, with five different elevators, and twelve different floors, not including the tallest tower which reached even further into the sky. It was home to multitudes of people from the king and queen down to some of the lower maid and kitchen staff that boarded here for lack of their own home.
Erec knew this place like the back of his hand. He had been raised in this massive structure, there wasn't a single room worth knowing that he wasn't familiar with. So, when he pushed open the door to one of the smaller sitting rooms on the far end of the upper floor where the royal family conducted business, he knew that there wouldn't be anyone inside. The room was small, and the placement of the window - never in the direct path of the sun - meant the room was perpetually dim. It made it a rather unpopular spot and made Erec rather confident that they could have some privacy there.
Nina turned around as Erec shut the door behind them. Even as she was opening her mouth to ask what he had brought her here for, he was turning around and taking her by the face. His lips closed over hers, swallowing the words as he kissed her desperately.
It was their first kiss since returning to Gwenael. The heady heat of it made Nina's head spin as she clutched to his forearms, clinging onto him to avoid letting her knees weaken and fall. The scent, the taste of him was different now. Less rugged, more refined. Fuller, sweeter.
Unbidden, Addie's question returned to her: What does a prince like?
This was what a prince tasted like. Rich like wine, with a distinct crispness. Like biting into a fine apple, refreshing and dizzying. She honestly didn't know if she preferred this or the way he had felt under her hands, against her lips, when they had been roughing it through Gascony.
Erec pulled away from her with a gasp, but he kept her face in his hands, enjoying the way it took her eyes a long second to focus back onto him.
"All right?" He asked, unsure of what he was even trying to determine.
Nina nodded, chest heaving with each quick breath she fought past her tingling lips.
Laughing, Erec put his arms around her and pulled her close. His belly swooped in excitement when she held him back without hesitation.
Nina rested her head down against his shoulder, turning her head into face his neck. He had placed some sort of scent or cream there and the rather masculine fragrance filled her nostrils, clouding her mind, and tempting her into nuzzling the skin she found there.
Nothing had changed. Relief swept through him as the fear that she would try to distance herself from him upon their return was washed away.
Of course, one kiss didn't prove anything. Despite all that they had endured, and everything they had enjoyed together, there was still doubt. Because, even despite the kiss, he hadn't broached that final subject. She had already told him yes aboard their boat before jumping ship, but the moment had been fast and said under pressure. That uncertainty in what she would say now that they were safe and calm was driving him mad. If he had to leave on another campaign before hearing it from her lips again...
"Nina?"
"Hm?" She responded almost lazily. She couldn't imagine anywhere that was as comfortable as the warmth of Erec's arms.
"Will you tell me what you're thinking? If I ask?"
"Yes, of course." She pushed herself up straight so she could look him in the eye.
"Have you given any more thought to my proposition?"
She didn't pretend to not know what he was talking about. But she looked away quickly. She was already flushed from the passion of his kiss, but he could easily imagine her blushing at the question.
When she didn't answer immediately, he pushed her hair from her face.
"Nina?"
"Don't rush me." She mumbled, clearly embarrassed.
Erec chuckled. "I'm sorry. Take your time."
She clearly intended to do just that. Her weight shifted nervously between his feet as she tried to gather the courage to form the words that she both desperately wanted to speak and, at the same time, hoard away from the entire world for the rest of her life.
While she fought with herself, Erec was running his fingers through her hair, across her face. The pad of his thumb ran gently along her bottom lip. The palm of his hand slipped down the gentle slope of her hip, then back up again. He smiled at her face as he occupied himself with her body. Honestly, just making it harder for her to focus.
"How can I think if you don't stop touching me?" She asked, getting breathless again.
Erec smiled. "I don't want you to think. I want you to feel. Tell me what you feel. Don't bother clouding your emotions with thoughts. What do you feel? Right now?"
"Nervous." She said immediately, making him laugh. "Stop that! I'm serious."
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry." He hastened to bring his face under control with only minimal success. "Keep going. What else do you feel?"
New blew out a breath. She wished that things like this were as easy as battle. Or, maybe, that she had more experience dealing with such matters.
Though, she doubted highly if she would have been responsive to any other man's advances, even had she not been raised in the Isles. Something about her was off putting to the opposite sex, and she didn't think anyone else would have had the dedication to love her for an entire decade. Erec had proven himself loyal and determined, if nothing else.
"I feel... warm." She said, deciding to start with the easiest things.
"That's good." He rand his hands down her waist to come to rest on her hips.
"And scared."
"Of me?"
"I suppose... of me?" She grimaced. "I just find myself thinking... what if this is a mistake? What if I'm not good enough for this? What if I disappoint you?"
"Nina, you would make an impeccable queen. You have a great work ethic and you're so responsible. There isn't anyone more suited to rule."
Her blush deepened. "I wasn't actually talking about being queen."
Erec rose an eyebrow. She licked her lips.
"I meant about being... your wife." The word felt so foreign on her lips. Her heart squeezed, dropped, then strangely felt like it was soaring just to think of that word applied to herself. She dropped her head down onto Erec's shoulder, suddenly too nervous to show him her eyes.
He was just grinning. "Oh, well, in that regard, I can't imagine ever being disappointed in you. As for your suitability, who cares? So long as we're both happy, isn't that all that matters?"
"I'd have your children." She whispered as though the very idea was unbelievable. "I would sleep with you every night."
"I'd hold you every day. I'd kiss you every chance I get." He added, kissing the side of her head as though to illustrate his point.
Nina let out a long, stuttered breath. It seemed, to her, to be the most incredible of dreams. She turned her eyes up to face him, searching for any hint of indecision. He just smiled at her.
"Do you really love me?" She asked, unsure of why she felt so very insecure of words that he had already presented to her multiple times. In any and all other things, she would trust him without question. In this singular instance, however, she needed reassurance.
Erec kissed her cheeks. Slowly. Sweetly. Taking his time.
"I do. I've loved you since the first moment I laid my eyes on you, and that love has only grown with each passing day. If you still aren't sure as to your answer... Well, I won't lie, the waiting is only getting harder. Especially if I have to be apart from you again. But if I have to wait-"
"I love you, too."
Her simple declaration, so soft and understated he might not have heard it at all, completely derailed his thoughts. For all that he had fantasized about hearing her say that very thing, the reality struck him dumb with the enormity of the simple sentence.
"Oh..." Was all he could think to say.
Nina bit her lips, looking away from him. "I love you, and I will m-marry you."
Erec grabbed her chin and turned her back. "Say it again. Look me in the eyes and say it again."
Her lips worked up and down for a couple seconds, but it was so much harder trying to say such things when she had to actually look at him. She already knew that he loved her, she had no reason to fear a lack of reciprocation. Still, just thinking about saying it again set her heart racing erratically in her chest and each breath she struggled to take in was harder than the last.
But, if he could say it, then so could she.
"I love you, Erec." She whispered the words.
He cried out, throwing his arms around her. Just hearing her return his feelings made his heart feel so full that it was likely to burst at the seams. Nina yipped in surprise when he pulled her clear off her feet and spun her around.
He put her back down so suddenly that she might have fallen over if he didn't have hold of her arms to stabilize her.
"Now, say the rest of it." He nearly begged, breathless and excited.
Nina started laughing. She couldn't help it. He looked so very happy in that moment that it was infectious, catching on her and making her chest lighter as the nerves released their sharp grip over her heart.
"I love you, Erec." She repeated again. The words weren't just easier to form, they tasted even better in her mouth as she spoke them a second time. "I love you, and I... I want to marry you."
"Say it again." He pleaded, taking hold of her face.
"I love you and I want to marry you." She laughed, clutching his arms.
He kissed her. Once. Twice. "Say it again. Scream it to the world!
She dragged in a deep breath, and as she yelled, so loud her own voice echoed in the small room and down the hall, she felt something long repressed finally release in her chest.
"I love you! And I want to marry you!"
Erec sealed the words with another kiss. Grabbing onto her as though afraid that she might disappear if he were to loosen his grip. She didn't mind the pressure. It felt more than good. It felt freeing.
He kissed her until they were both breathless, then dragged in another deep gulp of air, and kissed her again. It was all she could do to hold onto him and withstand the onslaught. After so long of waiting for her, he couldn't hold back any longer.
And she didn't want him to either.
They didn't quite break apart. Their lips just separated, their panting breaths mixing in the air, as they stared at each other so close they could count the lines in the other's eyes.
"By the way," Erec grinned. "That's a nice coat. Is it new?"
Nina laughed, running her fingers through his hair, shaking her head. "Yes. Yes, it is."
He ran his fingers down the maroon fabric, tracing the golden lines on the seams. It was beautiful, subtly feminine, and her perfect size. It wasn't a man's coat that she had draped over her shoulders today. It belonged to neither her father nor to Erec. This was her own coat.
"I like it." He smiled. "It looks good on you."
Nina smiled, resting her hands on his shoulders. "Feels good on me, too."
They rested their foreheads together, lost in staring into each other's eyes.
The future was uncertain, and the prospects didn't look good. However, despite knowing that it could all end tomorrow with the war creeping ever closer to their front door, they couldn't help but plan for the tomorrow that they hoped would come.
Fighting, together, for the duty and the love that bound them together.