The Pauper Prince - part 16

The Pauper Prince
Chapter 16

  The Queen and her entourage arrived at Mara's new chambers, which had previously belonged to the Princess Flora, to inform her of a new duty, for which her training was to begin immediately: running the castle. All of it. As she explained it, the King ruled the kingdom, but she ruled his home. All decisions regarding the operations of the castle were hers alone, with one exception: the King's Guards. This duty fell to the Prince, as well as the King himself. There had been times when, in the King's absence, the Queen had ruled on his behalf, as had the Prince, but she assured Mara that this was not expected of her. At least, not any time soon.
  To Mara's relief, the Queen understood and abided that she was not yet proficient enough at reading or writing to take notes while the Queen explained each duty pertinent to the castle's area. A servant was appointed the task of writing and followed the women closely. What Mara did for herself, though, was to silently make a point of remembering the names of everyone they encountered, from masters to apprentices and everyone in between. There were quite a few names to remember, so she worked out different ways to do so, knowing that her system would be tested the next time she walked the grounds with the Queen.
  As she was introduced to the various workers and craftspeople, Mara became aware of an odd feeling within herself. Each person who was introduced to her made some effort at royal courtesy, either calling her "My Lady" or "Your Highness" (prematurely, but no one was corrected), and bowing according to their sex. What Mara soon realized was that she did not look forward to being greeted this way by other women... but did for the men. Still, anyone watching her expression or movement at the time would not have been able to tell. Being perfectly stoic when needed was something she'd learned early and well, thanks to her father.

  In most cases it was not the Queen's task to simply walk around and tell everyone what to do. She could hardly tell a master blacksmith how to forge or a master carpenter what kind of joins to use. She could and did, though, check for any delays in scheduled projects, listen to concerns of all kinds, mediate disagreements, keep on top of needed supplies, and evaluate workers for promotion, demotion or dismissal. The areas where the Queen was very much involved were the kitchen, attendant staff, and handmaidens. The King and the Prince knew what they wanted and needed for their valets; the Queen's job was to find their matches, as well as being in charge of the handmaidens and other attendants. As for the kitchen, setting the menu for banquets, ensuring that the proper ingredients were ordered in the proper quantities, and guiding the overall quality of the food was her top priority. Food, in her mind, ran the kingdom. It was during their first visit here that the Queen put Mara on the spot, urging her to provide the kitchenmaster with the recipe for her vaunted Lamb Stew - the one that had supposedly won the heart of the Prince. Mara tried to beg it off, insisting that a starving man would find any meal delicious, but the Queen insisted back, with far more weight than she. Mara acquiesced and listed whatever ingredients she could remember. The kitchenmaster wrote down the ingredients, regarded them with minor suspicion, and promised to create the stew as best as he could with them. Mara would be satisfied if no one spat it out after a taste.
  The Queen had attempted to talk Mara out of her request for Heather as her personal handmaiden - the girl was still a mere apprentice, after all - but Mara was gently, respectfully insistent. The Queen was intrigued by this persuasive approach, and finally allowed it. She was even allowed to set her own "rules" for Heather's conduct towards her. The first two "rules" were no curtseying or royal addresses, unless being watched by others. Another "rule" was that she was Mara's assistant, not servant. Heather was also encouraged to speak her mind about any subject. She had been conditioned, though, to do anything but that, so there was much progress to be made. Mara herself had far to go for her own journey towards royalty. She had made a private vow to herself to never forget her beginnings, and was counting on Heather reminding her if the vow wavered.

********************

  Setting the date of the wedding, making the guest list and planning the engagement banquet was entirely out of her and the Prince's hands. The Queen was at least telling them what to expect, but in such a way that did not invite differing opinion. Mara found it interesting that Kelvin, so quick to argue about almost everything with his father, never spoke up to his mother. In fairness her plans for the engagement celebration and wedding did not seem overly elaborate or bizarre, even to Mara's still-common mind. Perhaps there really was nothing to disagree with. Or perhaps their relationship was just that amenable. There was still so very much for her to discover.
  Nearly three weeks after the King and Queen had given their blessings to the marriage, Mara was in her study/parlor/sitting room/library, borrowed papers and books spread all over the serving table. Learning the alphabet and reading simple words were coming along smoothly and quickly for her. What was troublesome was mastering the pen and ink for writing. She had pages covered with letters, numbers, symbols and words that seemed to have more smeared black blobs on them than anything legible. As a result she had quickly developed the bad habit of reading more than writing. The various papers and books strewn about were perhaps beyond her reading level, but she preferred this challenge. Better to get through history and law more quickly. Especially the law.
  She was engrossed enough in trying to slog through the obtuse language known as Legalese, to have missed the first knocks at her door. The next round of knocking was loud enough to startle her. She was still holding one of the books on her way to answering the door.
  It was Kelvin, whom she would always make time for. She beamed and threw the door open wide, but made sure to close it behind him before burying herself in his embrace. Propriety still mattered much more to her than to him. When they parted, he paused to stare into her eyes and comment on how Heather had arranged Mara's hair that day. He was yet to be displeased with her results.
  Kelvin noticed her book, not to mention the piles of papers at the other end of the room. "I hope I'm not interrupting something important?" he said, offering his arm to her. She smiled and shook her head, then awkardly switched the book to her other hand so she could take his arm. They walked slowly together to a settee and sat down. "It's good that you have such a passion for reading," he said. "And learning in general."
  "I don't want to be ignorant anymore," she said.
  "I'd say that you've made good on your promise not to be 'idle' around here," he said. "I hope you know that I'm very proud of you?"
  Mara looked away and blushed to rival the garden's reddest rose. Between his declarations of love and of being proud of her, she found the latter to be far more heartwarming. "Yes," she said. "And you know that I'm... very grateful, yes? For everything."
  He leaned over and shared another, quick kiss with her. "You do like to read," he said. "I'd love to see how your writing is coming along."
  "Oh!" she said. "Um...." She shifted uncomfortably, "I don't think that you'd be very proud of that. It's... messy."
  "Why don't you show me?" he said. "I could probably give pointers. It takes a lot of practice; believe me, I know."
  "Um..." she said, looking back at the pile, "I think most of it is buried somewhere. Do you really need to see it now?  If I knew you were coming-"
  "That's fine," he said. "Later, then, as you wish. I really came for a different reason. May I?" He gently took the book she was holding and set it aside. A second later she realized that her place was now lost, but beat down the frustration in her face and smiled.
  "When we were in the tower of the Crown Jewels," he said, "And you were measured for Elisabeta's ring, it dawned on me that... well, that you don't have anything like that for yourself."
  "...I'm not sure I understand what that means," she said. "I'll have a gigantic wedding ring, but... not?"
  "What I mean is," he said, "That it's a family heirloom. It belongs to this family, not you, per se. Flora's tiara was made for her, though you'll inherit it. I realized that you don't have anything that's truly... yours. Something truly nice."
  "Something 'nice?'" she said, then chuckled. "Dearest Kelvin, I'm surrounded by nothing but 'nice' things. Things that I never thought I'd even see, let alone have. What is it you think I'm missing?"
  He reached into a pouch on his belt and pulled out a small box, but kept it partly hidden from her. "I should just show you, then," he said, breathing heavily now. He wiped at some sweat on his brow. This concerned her.
  "Is something wrong?" she said, trying to feel his forehead. He took her hand gently and kissed the palm before letting go.
  "I'm fine," he said. "I feel splendid. Just... a bit more nervous than I expected. I know you said, said that you don't expect fancy things, and I'm glad of that, but also... you make me want to. Uh, uh, give you fancy things. Nice things. You don't ask, and certainly not demand, so... I enjoy it. And so... I hope that you like this."
  He held out the small box, and opened it, then realized it was facing the wrong way and almost dropped it in his haste to turn it around. Inside was a ring, but not Elisabeta's ruby. This one was topped by an oval emerald of at least two carats, and surrounded by eight alternating rubies and diamonds - four of each kind, and each at least one carat. The band was all gold and wide enough all the way around to include carvings on each side, mostly of a floral nature. Kelvin's nervousness caused his hand to tremble; the light coming through the window caught the quivering gems and lit them up like tiny, shimmering torches.
  Mara reacted by widening her eyes to near-perfect circles and gasping - twice - then unintentionally holding her breath while staring. Kelvin peered at her, trying to gauge her thoughts, but eventually gave in.
  "I admit that I was also speechless when I saw Roderick's fine work," he said. "He took my idea and raw materials and made this masterpiece. I wanted the emerald to be the centerpiece, like the ones in your eyes."
  "Wh--What's in my eyes?" she said, tearing her gaze away.
  "I was just-- comparing them to emeralds," he said, blushing at his own words. "That's all."
  She smiled. "Oh, that's very kind. I never really thought of them as being especially green. Kelvin? You... say that I make you... want to give me things like this?"
  "I thought it would be a nice way to show your betrothal," he said. "Until the actual wedding, and you get Elisabeta's ring. But this... this would be yours, to do with as you please. See, I... Aside from the Crown Jewels, over time we accumulate a personal wealth of gems, precious metals, custom jewels. So, I took some of my own gems, and some of my own gold, showed Roderick what I wanted, and he made this."
  "If everything came from you, that means it's yours."
  "NoNo," he said. "It's yours. Remember my promise to you. Please. Allow me?" He reached first for her right hand, then remembered its purpose and took her left hand instead. It took all of her restraint to keep from yanking it away, especially when he slipped it on her finger. A perfect fit. He held her hand by the very tips of the fingers. For a long time she couldn't do much more than stare at it and silently curse herself for being struck so dumb by a piece of jewelry. But then, it was quite a piece. It was large, and her fingers were long and slender, but it somehow seemed just right for her hand.
  "Thank you," she whispered. "You wondered if I 'like' it. I love it. Is it all right if I show this to Heather?"
  "Your servant?"
  "Assistant," she said.
  "I've said before, it's yours to do with as you please," he said. "Of course I'm hoping that what you please is to wear it and show it to everyone, not just your ser-- assistant. Did you mean show it to her right now?"
  "No," she said. "I meant show her first. Before other people."
  "You're very fond of her."
  "In a way, she's as new at her job as I am," said Mara. "We're both learning. And... I enjoy her company. Er, Kelvin... there's something I've been thinking about of late, and I think this is the perfect opportunity." She arose from the settee. "Wait here," she said. "Will you wait here? I'll just be a second."
  "Of course."
  Mara hurried into her bedroom, then returned moments later, holding something behind her back. "Um," she said clearing her throat. "I've been thinking about how you've given me so much, and... I haven't really been able to return the favor. You know that I never had much."
  "Dearest, it's not 'things' that you give me."
  "Well, I hope you tell me someday what I do give you, but until then... I want you to have this." From behind her back she produced her sword, and held it horizontally before him. "It's what I've had the longest, so I think that makes it my most... precious possession? Or perhaps just the oldest. Either way, I've been thinking that, you've given me so much, and I don't have much of my own, but I have this, so... I hope you'll take it."
  "Oh, Mara," he said, rising, "I couldn't take this from you. As you say, it's your most precious possession. It's been your weapon, your protector, for most of your life. Please; you must keep it."
  She opened her mouth to speak, but had no words. Still holding it aloft, she started noticing its flaws. The wearing and weathering of the leather scabbard, splotchy coloring, fraying straps. She pulled out the blade part way, each ding and dullness on the edge now an eyesore to her.
  "You're right," she said, resheathing the blade. "This is old and shabby. Straps barely hanging on. The scabbard's tip worn through to the blade. This is no gift for a Prince. It's junk. You must think I'm a fool."
  "What?" he said, waving his hands. "NoNoNo, that's not what I meant at all! I meant that there's no reason for you to give up--" He stopped, looked about, rubbed the back of his neck, fidgeted. "I'm the fool," he said. "Please forgive me." He reached out to try to take the sword from her, but she held it tight.
  "You're just accepting it out of pity," she said.
  "It is not pity," he said with a hint of irritation. "I am honored by your gift. Truly. You know, it's said that those who give all that they have are greater than those who give from their surplus. Please, Mara; I accept your gift with all my heart."
  "You mean it?" she said, one eyebrow cocked.
  "Do you mean it?"
  She was silent, and then released her hold on the sword. He took it and felt along the scabbard, turned it around, pulled out the blade and popped it back in. "It is flawed," he said. "But beautiful. If, Lord forbid, I must ride into battle someday, I promise that I'll have this with me."
  She scoffed. "You don't want to ride out with that," she said. "Not without a lot of repairs, anyway."
  "I won't change any of it," he said. "It would be with me to remind me of you. To remind me what I would be fighting for."
  "Well, if there were ever a war," she said, "I'd be fighting with you, of course. It wouldn't have to be with my old sword. I wouldn't need anything fancy, though I suppose you'd want me to have one. Really, I'd be fine with a common soldier's broadsword. Something strong, and sturdy."
  Kelvin regarded her in silence for a time, then smiled, set down his gift, and pulled her into a tight embrace. "No matter where I go," he said, "You will be with me."
  Much time was spent buried in kisses, which nearly became far more than that. Kelvin managed to hold himself in check in time. Mara sensed some frustration in him but did not know the exact cause. She also noticed that Kelvin took longer than usual to compose himself after their passionate exchanges.
  "Darling," he said, wiping sweat from his mouth. "I was wondering if you'd be willing to read to me? I'd love to hear how far you've come."
  "I'd be willing," she said. "But please don't laugh at me. I still have to sound out the letters for many words. It sounds odd, but it helps me remember."
  "I learned the same way," he said. "And I would never laugh at you."
  "Well... I hope you would if I said something funny? Then you should laugh."
  Which he did.

The Pauper Prince - part 15

The Pauper Prince
Chapter 15

  Mara had somewhat lost track of time since her arrival at the castle. She guessed one week, but Kelvin assured her that it was a fortnight. By this time her meals with the royal family had become, as much as a meal with a royal family could be, routine. By this it meant that she was simply dining with them and having more or less mundane conversations, and not interrogations, tests, questioning, arguments - not about their possible marriage, that is - nor long, uncomfortable pauses. She had, in time, managed to obtain footwear other than her old boots, due to needing custom shoes that took longer to make.
  True to his word, Kelvin had arranged for an instructor for her, first to teach her reading and writing. After that would follow any other subjects she wished. For now Mara was requesting law and history, and later, at Kelvin's suggestions, literature, mathematics and science. She still showed no interest in studying music, so he relented on that. Rather than combat instruction with Seamus, she requested instead to learn archery and horsemanship. What she absolutely refused to do, though, was ride sidesaddle, which her instructor insisted was the only way for "ladies" to ride. At first the Prince had tacitly agreed with that, but finally stepped up to order her riding instructions to be identical to a man's. This required that the seamstresses make special riding clothes for her that allowed her to spread her legs enough to sit on the horse properly.

  Mara was at her dressing table, studying these new things called "letters," and the Prince was outside, walking the grounds with Seamus, when they were both summoned to the King and Queen. Coincidentally, they arrived at the door to the consultation room simultaneously.
  "Do you know what they want?" she asked him quietly.
  "I wish I did," he said, and pushed open the door.
  Inside, the King and Queen waited for them. They were both standing, so Kelvin and Mara took that as their cue to do the same. They stood side by side and waited to be addressed. The King seemed to be taking his time, though, looking at them alternately before clearing his throat.
  "We have made our decision about your marriage," he said. Both of them became infinitely more alert. Mara took a deep breath and almost forgot to let it out. She let her gaze drift downward.
  "Lady Mara," said the King. "Look here." He pointed first to her eyes, then to his.
  "Yes, your Majesty," she said. She dared not let them stray even a bit now.
  "And Kelvin," he said. "You understand that this decision is final. There will be no debates. No arguments. No counterpoints. You will accept our decision. Do you understand?"
  "Yes, Sire," he said.
  "Good." The King looked first to the Queen, then back at them. "The marriage between you, Prince Kelvin of Gildern, and you, the commoner known as 'Lady' Mara of Breech... will not have our blessing."
  Her world was gone - washed away with a single word: not. The Prince had promised - insisted - that it would happen come hell or high water, but it was true: without the backing of the King and Queen, their life together would be hell.
  "And therefore," said the King - what other knife could he put in our backs now?? - "Effective immediately, she will be granted the title of Countess, and granted five acres of land, two miles due west of the castle grounds and known as Riverbend-" Mara, still trying to keep her gaze on the King, stole a glance over at Kelvin, who was practically vibrating from his efforts to remain still "-And will have all the rights and privileges accorded to her title and station. And it is that marriage - between you, Prince Kelvin of Gildern, and you, Countess Mara of Riverbend - that has our blessing."
  Kelvin could take it no longer. He threw his hands high into the air and let out a great cry of delight, then ran first to the King, then to the Queen, then to the King, and so on, until he threw his arms tightly around his father, loudly babbling his gratitude, then all but attacked his mother with more hugs and kisses on both cheeks over and over. For her part, she impotently protested his "unprincely" behavior.
  For herself, Mara had not yet fully registered what had just happened. They were not getting married - they were getting married - she was a commoner - and then not? She had land? Where did the title come from? She was so engrossed with watching the Prince fawning over his mother, the Queen, babbling and cooing to her, that she did not see right away that the King was looking at her. Finally she met his gaze, and for the first time since their meeting, a smile crept onto his face. Not a smirk or a half-grin or a sign of sarcasm, but a warm, welcoming smile. He held out his hands to her, palms up, then beckoned her forward.
  She took hesitant steps forward, then put her hands on his when they were close enough. He squeezed them gently. "Countess," he said. That word gave her a chill. "I know that we have put you through much. Many questions, many examinations, many tests. We had to, to determine if you were worthy of our son and of our kingdom. Please forgive the misdirection in the beginning; it was really to, uh, give the Prince a bit of a jape. But we do now, truly, wish to welcome you to the family. Welcome. Welcome, daughter."
  He pulled her slowly into an embrace and patted her back once. He realized that she was shivering. He was about to let go and ask if she was cold, but she suddenly gripped him tightly and buried her face into his shoulder, her eyes closed. Kelvin, who had been watching, waited a few moments, then put a hand on her shoulder and gently pulled her away. She then became embarrassed by her impropriety and apologized to the King. He insisted that there was no need.
  Once again they stood side by side to face the King and Queen. Kelvin smiled and bowed his head. "Thank you so much," he said. "God bless you both. This means everything to us."
  The Queen stepped forward and held Mara's hands. She seemed to be considering her words, and opened her mouth to speak, then smiled and nodded slowly. "Welcome, child," she said finally, and withdrew.
  "This is going to mean everything to the kingdom," said the King, with a hint of warning. "You may have our blessing, but you won't have it from others."
  "Father, no matter who I picked, some family would be offended," said Kelvin. "We've been through this."
  "Yes, but at least the other families all know each other," said the King. "She'll have come from nowhere, from their perspective."
  "Well, technically, she has," said Kelvin. "B-b-but can this wait? Keep this a joyous occasion, a joyous day? Let us have our celebration!"
  "Yes, yes," said the King, waving them away. "Go on, enjoy yourselves."


  Kelvin took Mara's hand and almost yanked her from the room, knocking the doors open as they went. He was moving quickly and taking long strides, which gave Mara trouble until she managed to pull up on her dress to keep her feet from tripping.
  "Kelvin," she said, "Am I really a Countess, or is that just something we'll tell people, like calling me a Lady?"
  "If Father said that you're a Countess," said Kelvin, "Then you're a Countess."
  "No," she said. "What? Is that allowed? I mean, he can do that?"
  Kelvin chuckled. "A King can grant titles, yes," he said. "But, up to Count and Countess without consulting with the aristrocracy. Therefore, you are a Countess." He looked back at her and grinned.
  "Where are we going, anyway?" she said. "And why the hurry?"
  Kelvin slowed down considerably now, allowing her to walk at a more natural pace, and released her hand. "Do forgive me," he said. "I was overcome with excitement. You can keep up with me now, yes?"
  "I was keeping up," she said. "I'm just curious about the haste."
  The two were walking down stairs now that led to a side exit from the castle. Outside it was bright and cool. After their eyes adjusted, Kelvin offered his arm, which she took. He began escorting her across the grounds.
  "Where we're going is a surprise," he said. "You were given a tour of the castle and grounds early on, weren't you?"
  "Um, yes," she said. "I think I've forgotten most of it, though. There was a lot to take in."
  "Were you taken to that tower there?" Kelvin said, indicating a tower separate from the main wall. There were several guards at its base.
  "Mm, we saw it, but didn't go in," she said. "He didn't say what was in it, either."
  "Actually, that's good," said Kelvin. "You weren't allowed in at the time." He looked at her and smiled. "You are now, though."
  She had no answer for him. In a few minutes they arrived at the base. The guards knew the Prince but were still questioning of the woman he had with him. "Lads," said the Prince, "This is the Countess Mara of Riverbend. My intended."
  The guards first acknowledged the Prince, and then her as they bowed their heads and overlapped their greetings. Mara blushed. This was the first time that she had heard him, other than to the Queen and King, introduce her as his betrothed. Odd that it was to a group of castle guards, but that probably made it more memorable.
  "Gentlemen, are there objections to me and my fiancee entering the tower?"
  "No, your Highness," the guards answered, again in overlapping fashion. Each of them produced their own key, and took turns onlocking different locks on the iron door. The last guard pulled it open for them. Kelvin entered first, offering a hand to Mara to guide her up the winding staircase, but she insisted on ascending it unassisted.
  Finally the reached the top, where a middle-aged man, and a younger man sat at separate tables - worktables, from the looks of them. At the far end of the tower, opposite where the staircase ended, was a very large, solid, metal door with multiple locks, like the door at the base of the tower. Both men looked up from their work, then stood and bowed their heads to the Prince. The middle-aged man then left his worktable to approach the Prince and Mara. Then she could see that he was shorter than they.
  "Your Highness," he said, bowing again. "This is an unexpected visit."
  "My apologies for the lack of notice, Master Roderick," said the Prince. "And hello, Master Jason!"
  The younger man seemed startled by the attention, and stood up again and bowed hastily. "Oh! Hello, your Highness. I greeted you before, as well."
  "Master Roderick, Master Jason," said the Prince, "Please allow me to introduce you to my intended, Countess Mara of Riverbend."
  Roderick seemed taken aback by this news, then took her hand - which she did not expect- and bowed deeply to her. Jason hurried around his worktable to bow awkwardly, but did not take her hand.
  "It is an honor to meet you, my Lady," said Roderick, kissing her hand before straightening up. Mara looked to the Prince, then at her hand, uncertain what her response was supposed to be. Roderick bowed again to the Prince. "Congratulations, your Highness. To both of you." Jason also bowed again to mirror his master, then returned to his worktable.
  "Thank you," said the Prince. "Then you'll know why we're here. Unless this is a poor time to see Elisabeta's ruby?"
  "Not at all," said Roderick, gesturing to Jason, who dug around in his worktable's drawers before producing two keys. Roderick retrieved two of his own keys from his worktable, and together they unlocked the large door and pulled it open.
  It was clear to Mara now why this tower had been excluded from her first tour. They don't show the Crown Jewels to just anyone. Everywhere she looked were crowns, tiaras, scepters, necklaces, rings, broaches, bracelets... if a person wore a type of jewelry, it was represented here. Each item had been carefully placed on its own stand or pedestal. Nothing had been thrown in haphazardly.
  While she was busy being dazzled by the gold, silver and sparkling gems, Roderick was handing the Prince two sets of thin gloves. The Prince pulled his on and handed the other set to Mara, who finally noticed it after he poked her arm. She pulled on the gloves while still staring at the contents of the store room. The Prince looked around, then took a small, hinged box. He turned to show it to Mara, then opened it.
  Her eyes went wide, but she made no sound. Inside was a ring of gold, on top of which was a round ruby larger than her thumbnail. And surrounding the giant ruby were tiny diamonds inset into the gold and continuing halfway down the band. The band itself appeared to have some filigree sculpted into it, as well.
  "What do you think?" asked Kelvin softly. Mara looked at him, then the ring, and back to him.
  "What do you mean?" she asked.
  "I mean, do you like it?"
  "Do I-?" she said, then stared at it some more. "Um... How couldn't I? I mean it's- It's beautiful! My liking it or not is... unimportant, right?"
  "Not so," said Kelvin, carefully removing the ring and turning it this way and that. "You see, this belonged to Queen Elisabeta of Umbridge. She was my mother's aunt, and Mother inherited it upon her death. Then Mother gave it to me for my 17th birthday."
  "She... gave you a woman's ring," said Mara.
  "Well, not for me, of course," said Kelvin. "The intention being to give it to my future wife, as her wedding ring."
  "Oh," said Mara, nodding. Then both her eyes and mouth went wide again. "Oh??"
  "That's why I asked if you like it."
  "But-- But-- Uhhh... But this--" she said, suddenly unable to even sputter out a full sentence. "Big and-- Whahh--- But I'm just-- I-I'm not--"
  "Darling," said Kelvin, so softly as almost whispering, "It's all right. Slow down. Take deep breaths."
  "Is everything all right, your Highness?" Roderick asked from his worktable.
  "Thank you, Master Roderick," said the Prince. "We're fine. We'll be over presently." He returned his attention to Mara, who was working on slowing her breathing, as advised. Eventually she got it under control, but covered her face with her hands, then let them slowly drop before resting on her chin.
  "Kelvin," she whispered, "I-I can't do it. I can't wear something this-- this--"
  "Fancy?" he offered. She nodded.
  "I-I-I'm afraid that I'll... that I'll break it," she said. "Or worse: lose it! Then I lose my head, yes?"
  "You won't lose it," he said, "Because you'd never be taking it off. And I'm not sure what you plan to do that would break it. Here: let me have your hand."
  "W-w-well I wouldn't be wearing it now, would I?" she said, keeping her hand from him. "We're not married yet."
  "No, but we need to check the fit," he said, taking her left hand, anyway, and peeling off the glove. After he was done, and held her hand in his own, he paused, then smiled to himself. "I guess this will be practice for me, too," he said, and slipped the ring onto her third finger. It went on and came off too easily, so was too loose.
  "Oh," said Mara, almost in relief. "See, it's too big. It would slip off too easily. I won't be able to wear it."
  Kelvin did not respond to her, but removed it, put it back into the box, then took her hand and guided her over to Roderick's worktable. He set the box on the table.
  "It's too large, my good man," said the Prince.
  "Ah, a resizing, then," said Roderick, and he fished through some drawers before pulling out a small pouch. "Not surprising," he added, and started pulling out plain, steel rings from the pouch and setting them carefully on the table. "I could tell by her long, slender fingers that Elisabeta's wouldn't fit." He looked up at Mara and held out his hand. "My Lady," he said, "Would you mind showing me your left hand?"
  She did, and he peered at it a second, then picked up different steel rings before finding one that seemed to satisfy him. He slipped it on her third finger, and it fit perfectly. Roderick smiled. "One try," he said. "I am good."
  "We could make this my wedding ring," said Mara, showing the band to Kelvin.
  "Ha ha," he said sarcastically, removing it for her and handing it back to Roderick. "These are only for sizing."
  Roderick took the ringbox and opened it. "I can have this ready as soon as you need it, Sire," he said.
  "Well, there's the question," said the Prince. "A date hasn't been set yet, so...in a week or so would be nice.  More is fine if you need it. By the way, will you size her other hand?"
  Mara looked at him. "Why?" she said. "How many weddings are we going to have?"
  "We'll just have one, for now," said The Prince, and winked. "And you never know," he said. "You're going to be a Princess. What's a member of royalty without jewels?"
  "...A person without jewels?" she offered. The Prince chuckled, then left her side as she submitted to Roderick sizing her right hand's fingers. He seemed to know their sizes just by looking at them, but still verified, and called out numbers to Jason, who dutifully recorded the information.
  When she finished with them, she turned around to see Kelvin standing before her, his hands still gloved, holding a gold tiara that, compared to most of the other headdresses in storage, had a simple design.
  "This is a tiara," said Kelvin. She cocked her head and gave him a Look. "And I see that you know that. It belonged to Flora." Her expression softened immediately. "Now, you could always have your own made, because everyone has their own style or preference for these--"
  "When would I be wearing it?" Mara asked.
  "Oh... just special occasions, really," said Kelvin. "Special banquets, uh, parties and other soirees, uh-"
  "That's fine," she said. An awkward silence followed before Kelvin raised it up slightly to her.
  "Would you like to, uh... See over here?"
  He and Mara walked to a mirror near the storage room. She faced the mirror while he stood behind her and carefully placed the tiara on her head. He made some minor adjustments, then stood beside her and peered into the mirror. He smiled slowly.
  "Beautiful," he whispered.
  Mara was uncertain what he was referring to, herself or the tiara. She decided that it was the tiara. She felt as though she was looking at someone other than herself, and for the briefest of moments, almost curtsied to her own reflection, but came to her senses in time. There was no sound save for the two jewelers at work. Then she reached up to remove it. Kelvin took her hands gently and moved them away.
  "Uh," he said, "Need gloves, remember?" She apologized while he carefully removed it and placed it back in its proper spot in the storage room. Then he pulled off his own gloves and began shutting the vault door. "Master Roderick, Master Jason," he said. "Unless we're needed for anything else, we'll take our leave of you."


  Mara shielded her eyes from the sun as they left the tower. Behind them, the guards busied themselves locking the gate with their separate keys. This time Mara and Kelvin walked in a casual stroll, now that the important business had been tended to. He offered his arm again to her, which she took, but was lost in thought as they meandered.
  "After Roderick is done," said Kelvin, "We'll return and see how the ring fits."
  "Mm," she said, nodding, then continued with her thoughts.
  "Is something troubling you?" he asked.
  She shook her head. "Not exactly," she said. "I'm just trying to sort through all this, all that's happened today. And... just now I've been shown a whole... tower full of gold and jewels, just... sitting up there. And I'm to be wearing a single ring worth more than I and probably all of my ancestors combined have ever made in our lives. Does that seem strange to you?"
  "I suppose when you put it that way, yes," he said. "But would you believe me if I said that the Crown Jewels used to need their own building for storage?"
  She chuckled. "No, I wouldn't," she said. "But on second thought, every time I disbelieve something around here, I'm immediately shown it."
  "They did used to," he said. "Every kingdom goes through feast and famine. In case you're wondering, yes, sometimes this very kingdom was forced to pawn its riches, just to survive. And I don't mean to keep us in fancy clothes, but to pay for things the kingdom needed. Then during times of 'feast,' most of the royal families replenished their jewels. Then repeat for the next famine, and so on."
  "So... we're in a time of famine?"
  "Actually, no," said Kelvin. "We're... comfortably-fed, I would say. We lost riches during the plague, both of lives and gold. The lives being worth more, of course. But our prosperity has been growing since. It's simply that Father never made it a priority of putting the Jewels back into a building. He tries to spread the kingdom's wealth a bit more. The Jewels we have now will stay as they are. Other than items we might wish to create from our personal wealth."
  "Oh, well, I... I'm not one for fancy things," said Mara. "The ring you showed me is obviously a family heirloom, so I would... I will be honored to wear it. Just remember that I would never ask for something so, um... fancy."
  "I know," he said. "That makes it more pleasant to give you things."
  "Well..." she said, "You don't have to." They walked on in silence, no particular destination in mind.

The Pauper Prince - part 14

The Pauper Prince
Chapter 14

  An hour earlier Heather had created a minor masterpiece of braidery with Mara's hair, humming all the while, before taking leave of her mistress. As soon as the sprightly girl had left, Mara returned to her brooding and spinning of her sword. The sound of the leather scabbard's tip on the floor changed suddenly, becoming harder and sharper. She examined the tip and sighed. The tip had finally worn enough for the blade to start slipping through. More of her stupidity in action, damaging her most precious possession.
  She had just set the sword aside, when there was a knock at the door. She thought of calling out, but decided to stand up for once and get the door herself. Mara plodded over and opened it just enough to peek out. The Queen met her gaze. Mara quickly opened the door all the way and curtsied slightly.
  "Lady Mara," said the Queen. She had come alone, which was not her custom.
  "Your Majesty," said Mara, in a flat tone. She was unable to manage more than that for the moment.
  "Will you walk with me?"
  "...Yes, your Majesty," said Mara, and took a step forward.
  The Queen held up her hand quickly. "It was a question," she said, "Not a command."
  Mara was uncertain if there was a difference, but finally she nodded. "I will still walk with you," she said. "Your Majesty."
  "Good," said the Queen. "I hope you like the garden."


  The two walked to the royal garden in silence, the Queen occasionally pausing to receive her subjects' greetings and salutations, but discouraging anyone from lingering for conversation. When they reached the entrance to the garden, word was sent within that the Queen wanted the place to herself and her companion. The Queen led the way to the center, where there was the ornately carved wooden and metal bench that Mara had seen on her first tour of the castle grounds. The Queen seated herself, then patted the spot beside her.
  "Please," she said. "Join me for a sit."
  Mara complied silently. She stared at a spot ahead of her while the Queen breathed in deeply, letting it out slowly with a loud sigh.
  "It is almost my favorite time of the year in here," she said. "Almost all of the flowers are in bloom. Almost all of the birds have returned. But the sights, sounds and smells even now are still beyond reproach, don't you think?"
  "Yes," said Mara, still using her flat tone. "I'm... glad that her Majesty is so pleased."
  The Queen chuckled softly, then was silent. Mara stayed as still as she could. Perhaps the Queen expected the wonders of the garden to relax and soothe her, too. Or was she supposed to be speaking? Or continue waiting to be spoken to first?
  "I had the same examination myself," said the Queen, "When I became betrothed to King Silas. Well, Prince Silas, then. But unlike you, I did not pass the test."
  Mara turned slightly towards her, but did not otherwise respond.
  "This was quite unfortunate," said the Queen, "Because, you see, I actually was a virgin. And yet the 'test' told the then-Royal Physician otherwise. Now, to this day I could not say for certain if it was a lie on his part, or if the test is simply inaccurate. All I know is that a great deal of money and land exchanged hands, and tongues were stilled, until our marriage was approved."
  This time Mara did try to respond, but found that she had no words.
  "You realize that the penalty for you would be death, if you repeat any of this," said the Queen. "Don't you?"
  "Wh--? Then why--?"
  "After Silas and I were married, I begged him and his father, the King, to rescind that abominable law for a 'purity test,' when it was clearly unreliable. But they wouldn't have it. I cannot help but wonder if he would have put... Flora... to that same test. But I did manage to convince them to remove that man that they called the Royal Physician. It wasn't enough that he was corrupt. He also took an unseemly pleasure in making his examinations... uncomfortable... for me. Say or think what you will about Sir William, child, but he is dedicated to his profession, and is concerned for our comfort as well as our health."
  "If you say so, your Majesty," said Mara. Another silence followed.
  "And you mustn't be angry with the Prince," she said. "He also tried to dissuade the King from ordering the test, but ultimately had to stand aside for the law."
  "Is this law something that the King can overturn?" said Mara. "Or remove? Or something?"
  "Yes," said the Queen. "But he believes in it. A woman entering her first marriage in the Royal Family must be untouched by other men. And this test is currently the only way to determine this."
  "But it is inaccurate."
  "Or I was simply the victim of a corrupt, lying dog," said the Queen. "The truth is long buried."
  "The man must be untouched by other women, too, correct?"
  "There is no such law about that. However, the Prince has elected to keep his own purity, for his lady's sake, whoever she might be."
  "He told me this," said Mara. "Yet you say this is not required of him."
  "No," said the Queen. "Lady Mara, I don't need to tell you that this is Men's world, and they are forever trying to keep it that way. We can make our inroads, but ours is a life of constant insults, indignities and humiliations. It is how we comport ourselves in the face of it that shows our character. And I must say, right now I am impressed by yours."
  "I am... pleased by that, your Majesty," said Mara. "But I don't feel very impressive at the moment. I can barely move or speak."
  "On the contrary," said the Queen. "You see, after my own 'examination,' I refused to eat, drink or speak to anyone for two days. The only reason it was two days, and not longer, is that my father had the words beaten from me. The food and drink forced into me."
  "Your father had you--?  But... you're a Queen..."
  "Back then, I was a Duchess," said the Queen. "And his reasoning behind it is that Silas and his father were due to visit at any moment, and I needed to snap out of my despair and behave properly. Behave like a future member of royalty. It was a hard lesson, but I learned it well."
  Mara was silenced by the memories of the "lessons" her father had "taught" her. Different reasons. Same technique.
  "Sir William tells us that you have many scars," said the Queen. "The Prince did not seem to know of them until then. Is there anything you wish to divulge? And, Lady Mara, as I must trust you with what I have divulged, so you can trust me."
  "I... It's nothing that I've shown him, your Majesty," she said. "But I've not hidden my past from him. He knows what my... profession... was before we met. I was a m-- a soldier."
  "Soldier?" said the Queen. "For Gildern? I thought you were a scullery maid."
  "A--? No, your Majesty," said Mara, hiding her irritation. "I worked at the inn because I had no other choice during peacetime but to find other work. But I was not a soldier for Gildern. I was.. a solider... for anyone who would pay. That kind of soldier. The Prince knows this."
  "I see," said the Queen.
  "Your Majesty," said Mara, "I know you said I could confide in you, and I am grateful for that, but I'd... understand if you told the King."
  "Lady Mara!" the Queen snapped, startling her. "You wound me. I have offered you confidence, and I shall keep it."
  "I-I-I'm sorry, your Majesty," said Mara. "I didn't mean to suggest that you would, I just-- i-if it's something that you had to tell the King-"
  "Lady Mara-"
  "-Though I hope that you would not, I only meant to-"
  "Lady Mara-"
  "Assure you that I-I would not place any blame on you, because your duty is to him, not-"
  "Mara!"
  She was startled into silence. She blinked quickly a few times, then shifted in her seat and straightened up, glancing at the Queen nervously all the while. The Queen sighed, smiled slightly, then patted her thigh.
  "Mara," she said softly. "The Prince told us these things already. But no doubt you wore clothing to conceal your old wounds, so he did not see them. You might wish to know that, in spite of this news, the Prince's resolve to marry you has not waned."
  "It hasn't?" she whispered.
  "No," said the Queen. "Once his mind is set on something, it is not changed. Just like his father."
  Mara pondered this a moment. Then: "Your Majesty," she said, "Would you mind if I took my leave of you now?"
  "Not at all, child," said the Queen.
  Mara stood, then turned to give a farewell curtsey. "I must thank you for this talk," she said. "It was very kind of you to grant me your attentions. And... I thought you should know that my resolve to marry him... has also not waned." She bowed her head once more and turned to leave.
  "Mara," said the Queen. She stopped, but did not turn all the way.
  "Your Majesty?"
  "Your hair is quite lovely. My compliments to whomever arranged it."
  "Thank you, your Majesty. I will tell Heather, if I see her again."

*******************************

  Mara had learned the Prince's whereabouts from a passing servant. On the way to his chambers, she tried to think of various arguments and counter-arguments for the question she needed to ask him. No, not question: request. A demand? Not yet. She decided to leave it as a request and see where that got her. She did not have much experience at doing battle with words, and so wondered just how strong any of her arguments and counter-arguments would be, but had to start with something.
  She reached the Prince's chamber door, and knocked quietly. Well, that won't impress him, she thought, and began to knock harder, when the door was opened by a valet.
  "Yes?" he said. "What business do you have here, miss?"
  Mara cocked an eyebrow. She was almost starting to expect that "Lady" business by now. "I wish to speak with the Prince," she said, straightening up, her voice getting stronger as she continued. "Is he available?"
  "Provide me with your name, and-"
  "LET HER IN!" the Prince called from within. Before the valet could react further, Kelvin was already behind him, opening the door all the way. He shooed the valet aside and grabbed one of Mara's hands, all but yanking her inside. The valet recovered quickly, dusting off his sleeves and adjusting his clothing. The Prince dismissed him with a quick motion of the head. The valet bowed crisply and left the room, shutting the door behind himself.
  The Prince still had her hand in a tight grip and led her to the center of the room. Then he stopped and held onto her upper arms, squeezing them gently and rubbing them up and down. He wore a smile of unabashed joy that was hard for her not to match. But she had serious business with him and needed to practice restraint.
  "I'm so glad you came, Darling," he said. "I've been worried all day. Are you...? How do you feel?"
  Mara nodded slowly. "I'll be fine," she said. "I want to-"
  "I just want you to know, that I argued against that 'purity test,'" he said. "But Father was unmoved."
  "Yes, I know. The Queen told me."
  "Oh, you did speak with her? Good. Did she explain things to you?"
  "Yes. Yes, she explained quite a bit. Kelvin-"
  "I hope you can forgive me for what happened," he said. "Will you forgive me?"
  "There's...nothing to forgive," she said, to the Prince's relief. "But isn't it the King who needs my forgiveness? He's the one whose mind nobody could change."
  For once the Prince was dumbfounded. His smile dropped immediately.  Mara began to worry that she might have stepped on unwelcome political, or familial, ground. After all, she had reacted strongly to Kelvin's criticisms of her own father, no matter how true they were. But his features softened, and his smile crept back.
  "You're right about that," he said. "But bear in mind that he will never ask for it."
  "I thought as much," she said. "Kelvin, I'm not here to talk about that test. Er-- Actually, I am, but not just yet. Kelvin: I--" she straightened herself up again. "I want to learn how to read."
  She was unable to interpret the Prince's expression. He may have been surprised or taken aback, but she couldn't tell. Also, she realized that she was giving him too much time to argue against it, so she sorted through her various counter-arguments to back up her request: It would make her more useful to him as an adviser. Ruling people were supposed to be educated. Even the servants of the ruling people could read.
  "Because-"
  "Then it shall be done," he said. "Oh, I am sorry, did I interrupt you?"
  "What?"
  "You were speaking, and I interrupted. What were you saying?"
  "Um... nothing," she said. "What did you just say?"
  "That we'll find a teacher for you for reading," he said. "Oh, and writing, of course. You can't learn one without the other. When would you like to start? And is there anything else you wish to learn?" Mara could only stare in response.
  "Mara?"
  "Uh... I-I'm sorry," she said. "I'm just trying to figure out if you're... mocking me?"
  "Mocking you?" he said. "Why would you think that?" She shrugged. "Wasn't your request in earnest?"
  "Um... Yes. Yes, it was," she said. "I wish to learn how to read. I'm tired of being... being ignorant. I want to study the laws of this land. Its history. But especially the laws."
  "And its literature," he offered. "Stories, plays, poems, songs. Oh, music. Would you like to learn an instrument?"
  "I... I'm not sure."
  "What about singing?"
  Mara scoffed. "Especially not singing," she said. "I sound like... a goat being slaughtered. But wait: I came in here prepared to... to have to convince you about this, because I thought..."
  "You thought I would object?" he said. She nodded. "Mara. Darling. Have I given you any reason so far to make you think I wouldn't approve? I'm glad that you sought this on your own, before being told that you'd be receiving lessons."
  "Oh?"
  "A member of royalty without any education is a poor member of royalty," he said.
  "That was going to be one of my arguments!" she said. "Well... something like it.  Mostly about being useful because of being learned."
  "I'm glad that we're thinking alike, then."
  Mara sighed. "Ah, I'm so relieved," she said. "I'm not very good at debating. My arguments are usually fought with... well, actual fighting."
  "You could take combat lessons, as well," he said. "Not that the King and Queen would be pleased that a Princess was handling a sword, but-"
  "You know that I've spent most of my life in combat already," she said, failing to hide her indignation.
  "I'm only saying that the opportunity would be available to you," he said. "You learned what you learned from one man. There's no shame in learning from others.  Seamus is not just Captain of the Guard, he is an excellent teacher. Remember that he taught me. I haven't stopped learning; I'll still be practicing under him."
  "I'll... think about it," she said, and sighed again. "This has been a long day."
  "True," he said. "Speaking of which, I've been dying to do this all day, too." Kelvin pulled her into a long, deep kiss. As they embraced, Mara felt most of her stress and tension melt away, but not altogether. This was a good thing, for once.
  They parted, then closed their eyes and rested in their usual stance of forehead to forehead.
  "Kelvin?" she said, their stance unchanged.
  "Mm-hm?"
  "You will be King someday, yes?"
  "Mm-hm. But... since it will be upon the death or incapacitation of my father, not soon, I hope."
  "No, of course not soon," she said. "But someday, you'll be King. I want to ask: may a King make, or unmake, any law?"
  Now Kelvin broke their embrace, and straightened up, his eyes open. "Within reason," he said. "A King cannot make a law that the sun will no longer rise."
  "Of course I meant within reason," she said. "I have a reasonable request - no, a demand - that you unmake the law about the 'purity test.' Remove it. Rescind it. Whatever will keep others from going through it."
  "Now, Mara-"
  "I know that you think I ask this because of what happened today," she said. "That I'm still just upset and want it to go away. But I've had plenty of time today to think about this, and there is more to it than just... 'not liking it.' More to it than just the indignity and humiliation because of that law. If you truly need a woman to be a virgin before marriage, then so be it: demand it. But find some other way to ensure it. Make her swear on a Bible. Swear on the souls of her ancestors. Something. But not that test. No more."
  Again, the Prince's expression was indecipherable to her, but at least she could sense no anger. Finally, he cocked an eyebrow and nodded. "Didn't you just say moments ago that you're not good at debating?"
  "Well..." she said. "I've been giving this a lot of thought. And you yourself argued against it, so I'd think you'd be open to removing it."
  "I am," he said. "I just..." Then he seemed lost in thought. Mara did not like this, and stepped forward. She put a hand against his arm.
  "If we ever have a daughter," she said quietly, "Would you order her to endure that test?"
  "I..."
  "Kelvin."
  "No," he said. "No, I-- No! Why am I even hesitating about this? If I cannot convince my father to rescind it, then I will do it myself."
  She looked at him silently until he straightened up again and put his hands against her cheeks. "When I am King," he said, "Consider that law revoked."
  "Thank you," she said, and leaned in to kiss him on the cheek. "And I will hold you to it."

The Pauper Prince - part 13

--Parental guidance suggested--

The Pauper Prince
Chapter 13

  Two days had passed since Mara had been shown Kelvin's, and possibly her, private chambers. The two most notable events during this time, other than the epiphany about her father, were that she had finally managed to give her positive review of  Heather to the Queen - who reacted anticlimactically to the report - and that the royal seamstresses had completed one of her dresses. Not from scratch, but by modifying an existing dress. Her other garments would take time and would be from scratch. The women brought the first gown directly to her guest room, but Mara resisted being undressed in front of them, women or not. Fortunately they had brought a folding screen.
  Mara put on the outfit herself behind the screen, and got the gist of it, but the women did need to step in and make a lot of final adjustments for her. Aside from being a perfect fit, the colors, according to the women, complemented her body's coloring and enhanced her already "regal" bearing. Mara just went along with their chattering and nodded at appropriate times. There was no full-length looking glass in the room, but she could get a sense of her appearance from the feel and cut of the dress. The main garment was satin, dyed emerald green and with gold trim at the ends of the hanging sleeves and woven around the neckline. Another wide belt of brown leather gave her a waist; she was not an especially curvy woman, and the seamstresses insisted that it would accentuate her figure. Mara continued nodding at appropriate times. After the women had declared their first delivery a success, she thanked them all sincerely for their work and skill, and returned the "loaner" dress from several days before. The women appreciated the gratitude, and before gathering their equipment and leaving, were once again aghast that she was still wearing her well-worn, leather boots. The truth of it was that it hadn't occurred to Mara to seek out lady shoes, and nobody other than those women seemed to have noticed yet.

****************

  The seamstresses had managed to finish their business before breakfast, though Mara would have appreciated the extra time in bed. The morning meal was a private affair again. Her attendant this time was a nervous and awkward girl named Viola, who accidentally dropped one of the tea cups and was too flustered by it to speak coherently. Mara listened closely and tried to decipher her words, and gave up. At least she was able to make herself understood by the girl that no real harm had been done.  Viola stumbled on her dress while curtseying, and then left in a hurry. Mara actually appreciated the lack of perfection, even if the girl had not.
  Thirty minutes later a messenger, not Solomon this time, announced that her presence was requested by the King and Queen. Mara surmised that another interrogation was in order. In fact, she was brought to the same sparse, shadowy room where she had been before. The difference was that Kelvin was here, too. He stood beside his father, and given his solemn expression and odd reluctance to make eye contact with Mara, she realized that there was only one purpose for this meeting: they had made their decision about the marriage, and it was not in her favor. She braced herself for the terrible news.
  "Lady Mara," said the King, "This morning you will meet with the royal physician, for the purpose of determining your general health, as well as your purity."
  Or for that purpose, she thought, letting herself breathe again.
  "...Yes, Your Majesty," she said, looking to Kelvin for any silent explanations he could give. He had none. In fact, he still could not fully meet her gaze.
  "You will be thoroughly examined," said the King. "You will cooperate fully with the physician's instructions. This is required for his results to be accurate."
  "What is...?" she said. "May I ask what you mean by 'thoroughly'? Your Majesties?"
  "You may ask..." said the King, and allowed the slightest of smiles to peek through his serious countenance. Kelvin's face suddenly lit up.
  "Why, Mara, is that a new dress?" he said. "Did the seamstresses finish them for you? You look absolutely... It's stunning!  Please: let us see all sides!"
  She gave in to his gushing and grinned broadly. "Oh... Yes, they brought this this morning," she said, and started to turn around. "You mean, you like it?"
  "Son, do not change the subject," said the King. "We don't have all day for this."
  "I only wanted to acknowledge her new clothes, and... lighten the mood," said Kelvin. "Father, at least let us explain the purpose of the visit."
  "I have already done this," said the King. "Determining her good health and her purity."
  "I don't understand what you mean by my 'purity.'"
  The Queen spoke. "You must understand that it is required of you to be... pure and untouched, child."
  Mara's expression made it clear that she did not.
  "A virgin," said the King. "Untouched by man."
  "Oh!" said Mara, perking up. "Your Majesties, I can save you the trouble. I swear to you that no man has ever touched me. Except Ke-- the Prince, that is."
  There was a pause, and then as one, the King and Queen turned their gaze towards Kelvin and glared. A moment later he realized what had been said. He waved both hands frantically and shook his head.
  "Nononono!" he said. "Father- Mother- she meant a different thing than you're thinking!"
  "Oh, really?" said the King.
  "It's what I've been trying to explain to you all this time," said Kelvin. "For her, 'touching' means any sort of touching. We have embraced. We have kissed. Nothing more!"
  "Kelvin..." she said, looking away, embarassed.
  "We may take her word on this, sire," said Kelvin. "Believe m-"
  "The law is the law," said the King. "This is not up for debate."
  "You believe that I have broken the law?" asked Mara.
  "No, child," said the Queen. "Silas, please. Let us get this over with."
  "Agreed," said the King, and moved past Mara to open the door himself. "We will be accompanying you. Come."
  Kelvin passed her now, glancing her way with an unhappy expression. The Queen stood beside her.
  "Walk with us, child," she said.

*******************

  The royal physician's chambers consisted of a small waiting area in front, with a door leading to his study and examination room. He was in the front room to greet the royals and his new patient.
  "This is the Lady Mara," said the King. The doctor gave her a small head-bow. He was stout, bearded, dressed in an all-black robe and wearing a tall hat that may have had a practical purpose, but she could not determine it.
  "And this is Sir William of Gull, our royal physician," said the King. Mara decided to err on the side of protocol, and curtseyed to him. "Sir William, you understand which examinations are to be conducted?" asked the King.
  "Yes, Your Majesty," said the physician.
  "I don't," said Mara.
  Kelvin tried to speak, but was interrupted by the physician extending a hand to Mara. "Shall we begin, My Lady?" asked the physician.
  Mara glanced at the others worriedly, then nodded quickly, but did not take his hand. She followed him through the door.
  The physician's study/examination room was brighter than she expected. His large windows faced the east and were filled with the morning sun. There was another man with the physician - an assistant, perhaps - who glanced her way before returning to his preparations. He was placing various tools on a small table situated next to a larger table covered with a sheet. The physician went to his desk in the corner to review papers of some kind. The assistant finished with the tools and dragged a tri-fold screen closer to Mara.
  "You will need to remove your garments," said the assistant.
  Mara looked at him quizzically. "What's that now?"
  "Your garments," he said. "Step behind the screen and remove them."
  "Which garments do you mean?"
  "All of them."
  Mara looked wide-eyed at the assistant, then the physician. "No," she said. "Whatever it is you do for these 'thorough examinations,' I will be clothed for them." She heard the physician sigh.
  "My Lady, will you step this way, please?" said the physician. She turned to see him beckoning her over. She set her jaw and went to him.
  "Was the purpose of these examinations explained to you?" he asked.
  "Yes, sir," she said. "No, actually. 'General health and purity.' That was all."
  "Have you been examined by a physician before?"
  She scoffed. "Oh, all the time," she said. "That would be 'never.' "
  "I see," said the physician. "Well, you must understand that we must be able to view and examine one's entire body, absent of clothing, to check for abnormalities, blemishes, and anything that would indicate a lack of health. Especially... of Plague. One cannot be expected to find such things underneath layers of clothing, can one? These examinations are required by our laws, especially since the plague. Now remove your garments."
  He gestured towards the screen, but she was rooted in place and did not move.
  "My Lady, was it not explained to you that you must comply with my instructions?" said the physician.
  "...Yes, sir."
  "Then do so."
  With a last glance towards the door, as if pondering using it to escape, Mara slowly walked to the screen and stood behind it. She moved in slow motion, removing each piece of her clothing as if underwater, wincing as if in pain at their discarding. The last items were her boots, the right one still hiding her throwing dagger. She pulled it out and stared at it, then abruptly forced herself to put it away and drop the boot. Then she told herself to go to the examination room, but could not obey.
  "My Lady?" said the physician. "Are you ready?"
  "Uh..." she said, wrapping her arms around herself and squeezing her legs together tightly. "I think so."
  Before she could muster the fortitude and courage to tiptoe over, the tri-fold screen was suddenly collapsed together with a clackety-clack. She kept her head up, but bent her body forward to hide as much as possible.
  The assistant put away the screen while the physician gestured to the middle of the room, which had the most light. "You need to stand up straight and tall," he said, "And come this way. Come..."
  Mara stood up a little more, and walked over as best as one could with thighs pressed together. The physician reached out to move her into position, and she drew away.
  "Just tell me where to stand," she said, "And I will do that."
  "The more you cooperate, the sooner this will end," said the physician. "Now stand up straight, and hold your arms out, like this." He demonstrated a "T" position for her. She shook her head vigorously.
  "This is the last time I will ask," he said, "The King himself has ordered this. We are both beholden to the law. Stand up straight and hold out your arms!"
  Mara winced at an imaginary pain, and slowly forced herself to stand at full height and hold her arms out all the way.
  "Roger, take my notes," said Sir William. Roger the assistant brought over a pen, ink and parchment. "Patient is the Lady Mara." Roger wrote a bit on top and then waited for Sir William's instructions. "Your full name?"
  "Uh..." she said, trembling, "I have no other name." The trembling concerned him.
  "Are you cold, My Lady?" he said, beginning his examination at her fingers and working his way along her arm.
  "No," she said quickly.
  "Left fingers, hand, forearm," dictated the physician, "No obvious defects."
  That was not as comforting to Mara as Sir William might have thought. She took in a breath as he reached her upper arm and wrapped his hands around it, moving them forward, then back. He stopped and examined a few spots, "Hm"ing at each one. Mara looked over.
  "Eyes forward," said Sir William to her without looking up from whatever so fascinated him. She looked forward, but struggled against glancing over from time to time. Then Sir William left her side and went to Roger, where he took up the pen and ink and began writing his own notes. During this time she felt Roger's gaze on her, and again wrapped her arms tightly around herself. She was resolved now to bear this out, caring no longer what her health was, as long as it meant finishing and leaving more quickly.
  When Sir William resumed his rubbing and prodding, this time on her back, with more "hm's" than before, she stood still, unflinching even when his cool hands slid down her spine, but always kept on eye on the assistant. He pretended to pay more attention to Sir William's notes than to her.
  Sir William's examination moved on to her front, where he peered deeply into her eyes, felt along her ears, and checked her tongue and teeth. Flinching when he poked her armpits could not be helped, for this was an extremely ticklish spot, as were the sides of her ribs. But she grit her teeth and held her breath.
  Sir William then returned to his papers and wrote more items in silence, then nodded and gestured to Roger, who gathered the paper and ink and moved them from the table.
  Mara spoke quietly, tonelessly. "Am I finished?"
  "What was that?" said Sir William.
  "My clothes," she said. "May I be clothed again?"
  "I'm afraid not yet," he said. Roger was either putting equipment away or making more preparations; she could not tell. "There is one more examination to perform," said Sir William. "You will need to be lying down for this. Come." He gestured to a table of wood and metal that she could tell was going to be cold. There appeared to be leather straps in different places, which did not fill her with confidence. With another look towards the door and a moment to take a deep breath, she wrapped her arms around herself and went to the table.
  Sir William offered a hand to assist her, which she did not accept. She winced at the coldness of the table. Suddenly Roger was at the left side of the table, handling straps that were closest to her left arm. Sir William picked up the straps closest to her right arm.
  "Lady Mara, this examination requires that you be as still as possible," said Sir William. "We have found that restraints make this easier for us all."
  Mara sat up, folding her arms. "No more," she said. "What is this examination?? Why will no one explain things to me?? Restraints? Why? Is this something painful?"
  "Lady Mara, calm yourself-"
  "I ask only for an explanation!"
  "And you have had it!" said Sir William. "The first examination for your general health - especially any signs of plague - and this examination, to determine your purity."
  "I swear to you, Sir William," she said, "No man has ever touched me. Why will no one accept my word?"
  "It is the law that you be examined," he said. "I am not allowed to accept your word only. I shall not lie to my King."
  "Then tell me what you're going to do," she said, her eyes moistening. She fought to keep her voice strong and clear. "Please," she whispered.
  Sir William sighed. "Very well," he said. "We must confirm that your maidenhead is intact." He held up his hand. "As you can see, my fingers are thick and may cause discomfort. But my assistant's fingers-" Roger held up his hand - "are longer and more slender. Therefore, he will perform the examination."
  "I--" she said, glancing at Roger, whom she would swear was fighting against a smile, "I still don't know what you're going to do," she finished quietly.
  "He, uh--" said Sir William, "He needs to insert them into your womanly orifice, and confirm that your maidenhead is still there."
  "My...orifice?"
  "Where you bleed from periodically," he said. "You do bleed, do you not?"
  "...Yes," she said quietly, holding herself more tightly. "Sir William, please: I beg you not to do this. I swear on... on my mother's soul, I have not been with a man. Please tell them that."
  "That may be so," he said, his features softening, but only for the briefest of moments, "But the law is the law. It is not mine to break, nor yours. His Royal Highness the Prince - I'm told that it is your intention to marry him, is it not?"
  "Yes," she said. "He asked me, though. He asked me."
  "Take some small comfort in this, then: there would be no examination if they did not take your intention seriously."
  "...What?"
  "That His Majesty the King ordered this examination means that they are giving serious thought to your worthiness as the Prince's intended. And you do wish to be worthy of marrying him, do you not?"
  "Yes," she said quietly, then straightened up. "Yes, I do," she added with more strength.
  "Then lie back down," said Sir William, "And let us finish this examination."
  Mara took a few seconds to debate with herself, but it was a full, raging debate. Endure the humiliation here and now, or forfeit her (possible) marriage to Kelvin. Killing Sir William and Roger and escaping also flashed into her mind, but she had reached the point now in her life where she could (more) easily dismiss such a temptation. The final result was that she did not actually come to a decision, but simply let her mind shut down.
  She laid back down slowly and stared up at the ceiling while Sir William and Roger went about their business of fastening the straps. Her arms were held down at the wrists. There was also a strap for her waist, and ultimately, her feet were placed in stirrups but then held in place with more straps around the ankles. Then suddenly Roger grabbed a rope and pulled, lifting her legs high and spreading them. Mara winced and closed her eyes, then let them slowly open again. Keeping her gaze on the ceiling helped her to tolerate what was to come.
  Sir William stood beside her while directing Roger through his preparations. She heard water splashing and assumed that he was washing up. At least there was that preparation. If only he had clipped or filed down the fingernails she had noticed earlier. Perhaps that was part of his preparation.
  An uncomfortably long silence preceded the sudden cold that touched her "womanly orifice." Mara grunted and flinched, which caused its own pain on her feet because of the restraints. Sir William placed what he thought was a comforting, calming hand on her belly, but only glanced her way before continuing to watch Roger. Roger hesitated.
  "Sir William?" he said.
  "Cold...." said Mara through gritted teeth.
  "From the washing, My Lady," said Sir William. You'll get used to it. Continue, Roger."
  Roger continued. Roughly. Clumsily. Mara's legs tried to slam together on reflex and were again chafed against the leather. None of the restraints were tight, exactly, but were firm enough to hurt if fought against. Sir William was speaking to her all the while, using possibly calming tones, but she heard none of his words and was not going to be calm, either way. As still as possible, yes, for the sole purpose of this "test" being completed as soon as possible. But never calm.
  Roger's fingers were not far into her womanly orifice and were being moved in a slow circular motion. She did not know what this "maidenhead" thing was supposed to be, but if he did not find it soon, she would find a way to escape the restraints and find it herself.
  Sir William had by now moved his hand to rest on her shoulder, his gaze still on Roger, leaving Mara free to ponder the possibility of biting the doctor's arm, when Roger suddenly withdrew his fingers and nodded. Sir William nodded back.
  "Thank you, Roger," he said, taking hold of one of her arm restraints. "Please wash again and then help me undo the straps." Roger bowed his head slightly and began turning around. Mara caught a glimpse of him smelling his fingers before turning away completely. Meanwhile, Sir William was releasing her left arm from its restraint.
  "The examination is complete, My Lady," he said calmly. As soon as her hand was free, she attempted to undo the other strap herself. "No need for that," he said. "We'll take care of that."
  "I'm in a hurry, if you don't mind," she said. "And why were you nodding? Is that good or bad?"
  "Good," he said, gently pulling her arm back so he could work on the middle strap. Roger returned and fiddled with the rope that had been used to pull up her legs. But whether from the slipperiness of the water, his own clumsiness, or something else, the rope slid from his hands, and her legs dropped to the table with a loud and painful thump.
  "Roger!" said Sir William. Roger bent over in shame and contriteness, calling out apologies to his master while grabbing at Mara's legs, but for what purpose, she neither knew nor cared. She kicked at one of his hands, earning the doctor's stern attention on her this time.
  "Lady Mara!" he said. "He did not mean to let go! He's trying to help!"
  She stopped kicking and glared at the doctor. "Thank you for your concern, Sir William," she said. "My legs should be fine." She crossed her arms tightly around herself and sat up. "Now may I be dressed again?"
  Sir William glared back, then sighed and turned away. "Yes, My Lady," he said. "Your examinations are over."
  Mara pushed past Roger and set up the tri-folding screens herself. As she threw her clothing on as quickly as possible, Sir William smoothed out his own garments and accoutrements before exiting the room.
  The Royal Family was still waiting in the foyer, none with such anxiety as the Prince appeared to possess. Two handmaidens had joined the Family since the Lady Mara had been brought to him. Sir William made his bows to the Family.
  "What news?" said the King.
  "Your Majesties. Your Highness. My full report is forthcoming, but I know that your main concern is towards her general health and her purity," said Sir William. The King nodded. "In both cases, she has passed her examinations. She shows no signs of Plague or other obvious illnesses, and does appear to be untouched by man."
  The Prince audibly sighed in relief and tried to share a smile with his parents, but it was not shared.
  "However," Sir William continued, "There is a matter that should be brought to your attentions. While I found no signs of illness on her person, she does have a great deal many... blemishes."
  "Sorry?" said the Prince.
  "Scars, to be precise," said Sir William. "Your Majesties, I know not what sort of life she led before, but she appears to have been the recipient of many wounds. Mostly on her torso and upper arms, and some on her legs. If she were a soldier, I would say that most of the scars were from swords and daggers in battle, but that cannot have been the case for her?"
  "Um..." said the Prince, glancing about.
  "And there were at least two scars that appeared to have been the result of burns," Sir William continued, "On her back, specifically. Your Majesties - Your Highness - if she is indeed being considered as a bride, I bring these to your attention in case it will affect your... decision."
  "It might," said the King. "Is she dressed yet? I'll see-"
  "No," said the Prince. The King looked at him quizzically. "Thank you, Sir William, for bringing that to our attention. Our decision is not affected."
  "You've seen these scars?" said the King.
  "No, father. She always wore enough clothing to cover them. I'll see them on our wedding night, though."
  "Kelvin-"
  Behind them the door opened again, and the Lady Mara emerged from the examination room, her clothing put on about as well as could be done unaided, her posture straight, but not regal. The Queen, nearest the door, stepped aside slightly to allow her to enter. Her stance and demeanor reminded the Prince of a wounded animal still trying to present itself as a threat.
  "Mara?" he said softly, instinctively reaching out, but the Queen stopped his reach halfway. She shook her head slightly. The Prince opened his mouth as if to argue, then relaxed and pulled back. Mara glanced his way, then returned to looking at nothing. The Queen stepped forward and put a gentle arm around her, leading her through the men, who parted for them in silence, and over to the two handmaidens. Mara recognized one of them.
  "Lady Mara," said the Queen, "I've taken the liberty of summoning these two handmaidens to bring you back to your room, and to attend to any of your needs."
  "Thank you, your Majesty," she whispered.
  The Queen gestured towards one of the girls, a redhead. "You're acquainted with this one, yes?" she said. "You did speak highly of her."
  "Yes, your Majesty," said Mara, not noticing Heather trying to stifle a big grin of pride. The Queen let go of Mara and nodded to the girls, who parted to let her pass, then followed her in silence, patiently matching her slow pace.
  Back in the foyer, the Prince was mildly indignant. "Mother," he said, "You know that I meant to comfort her."
  "I know, son," she said. "But this is something I know much about, and understand. She's going to need time alone. You must trust me."
  Kelvin folded his arms and sulked. "Very well."

****************

  Heather and the other handmaiden, Fiona, followed the Lady Mara to her room. Mara went straight to her effects and rummaged a bit, producing her sword and scabbard. Fiona gasped and took a step back, but Heather stood her ground and stifled a smile. With a sigh Mara slumped into the dressing table's chair, facing the girls and the rest of the room . She kept the sword sheathed and let the tip rest on the ground, spinning the sword idly by the grip. Heather stifled a cough and stepped forward.
  "M'Lady?" she said. "Is there anything you would have us do? We are at your service."
  Fiona seemed to take direction from Heather, and straightened herself up, but kept a wary eye on the Lady's sword. Mara stopped spinning the sword and looked up, but not at the girls.
  "I..." she said/sighed. "I can't think of anything right now. I'm sorry."
  "There's no need for apologies, m'Lady," said Heather gently. "We know this has been a trying day. If you wish us to take our leave, we shall."
  "Oh, it's... I don't 'wish' for you to leave," said Mara. "I just... need time alone. But thank you for walking with me."
  "Of course, m'Lady," said Heather, bowing her head quickly. Fiona followed suit. The girls turned to leave and got most of the way to the door. Fiona was reaching for the door when Mara spoke again.
  "Wait," she said quietly. The girls stopped and listened. "Sorry. Just Heather? Is that all right?"
  "Of course, m'Lady," she said quietly. She and Fiona exchanged nods, and Fiona left the room and shut the door quietly behind herself. "What do you need, m'Lady?"
  "For you to call me Mara," she said. "Also..." Her voice trailed off. She resumed spinning the sword idly and looking at nothing. Heather stepped forward, craning to hear in case Mara was whispering. "Ahhh," she said quietly, but not whispering, "I don't really want to ask, because... I don't want you to think I'm... ordering or... that sort of thing... Ahhh..."
  Heather opened her mouth to respond, then thought better of it and waited for Mara to work through her words on her own. Mara kept her head down and tightened her lips several times, then forced herself to look up and finally meet Heather's gaze.
  "I think, um..." she said, "I think it would be nice... after all... to... have some company. If it's no trouble to you."
  "None at all," said Heather. "Mara." She found another chair and set it down beside Mara, but not too close. She sat down and lightly let her hands rest on her lap. Mara stopped spinning the sword, but kept her hand on the grip, and looked Heather's way.
  "Thank you," she whispered. Heather only smiled in response.
  The two sat like this for several minutes, in silence, the only sounds in the room coming from their breathing and the spinning of the sword.
  "Mara?" said Heather.
  "Hm?"
  "Would you like if I... braided your hair? Or brushed it? Or...? I find it quite relaxing - even soothing - myself."
  "I don't want to be any trouble."
  "Nonsense! Er- that is - I would be happy to. It's something that I enjoy doing."
  "If it will relax and soothe you, then fine. As you wish."
  "I meant it to be relaxing for you, my L--- Mara."
  "I know what you meant," said Mara. She straightened up a little, then gathered her hair behind her. Heather made a quick giggle and then searched for a brush. Fortunately the dressing table was properly equipped, and soon enough she was brushing and weaving the honey-blond strands into an elaborate tapestry. For her part Mara was apathetic, but it did give her something else to think about than the events of the day.

The Pauper Prince - part 12

A caveat: certain kinds of education are a lot better today than in this mythical, "Middle Ages" setting.

The Pauper Prince
Chapter 12

  The midday meal was also brought to her room, this time by a male attendant whose name she did not hear before he left. Like Siobhan, he was efficient, mannered, and quiet. She wanted to decline his offer to pour tea, but knew better than to turn away any sort of food or drink, other than purely rotten bits. This meal was anything but rotten, of course, and after the attendant left, she dove in, but gave the tea plenty of time to cool itself.
  The solitude did not bother Mara like it had during her breakfast. The happy memories of the castle tour notwithstanding, the quiet afforded her the opportunity to reflect on the morning's talk with the King and Queen. There had to be some use for a Princess other than "producing heirs to the throne." What about doing everything the Prince did for the kingdom? If she actually knew what the Prince did, that is. She needed to ask him about that. And needed to find the courage to tell him about her curse, before he learned of it the hard way.
  A vigorous knock at the door roused her from her thoughts. She also realized that she had stopped eating while pondering her situation. She made it to the door just as another round of knocking began.
  The Prince flashed his heart-melting smile and waited for her response. When she only smiled back, he leaned through the doorway and whispered, "Another fifteen minutes."
  "What?"
  "We have fifteen minutes again," he said, "And I want to show you something."
  She wasted no time following him through the hallway and to the second floor. He spoke as they walked.
  "Did Solomon find you? Did you get a tour of the grounds?"
  "Yes," she said. "Yes!  Thank you. Thank you so very much. It's just what I needed. It feels like I've been inside for a week, though I know that isn't true."
  "Same here," he said. "I'm glad you enjoyed it. He's a fine storyteller, isn't he?" She nodded. "And please accept my apologies that you've been eating alone today. My father has wasted no time throwing me back into the day-to-day workings of the kingdom. It's all been business, business at each meal."
  "Oh, I take no offense at all," she said. "It's been... helpful. It's given me a chance to think about things."
  "You'll join us for dinner, I promise," he said. She only replied with a smile. Soon enough they reached a door that she recognized.
  "Oh, I remember here from the tour," she said. "Solomon said that you and your parents are in this wing, but I can't enter any of the rooms."
  "Can't you?" Kelvin said, opened the door to his chambers, and gestured for her to enter first. She blushed before stepping inside, and gasped. The room was twice the size of her guest room, with a larger bed, larger dressers, wardrobes, fireplace, looking glass-- larger everything. He also had a shallow balcony with two thick doors leading out to it. Each corner of the room had stone pillars covered with carvings resembling ivy and vines. Other than the ubiquitous stone, given this was a castle, the walls and ceilings were accented with oak stained to a rich reddish-brown that gave Mara a subtly warm feeling.
  Kelvin indicated the whole of the room to her. "What do you think?" he asked.
  "I think... I think you must be very comfortable here," she said. He smiled and took her hand to guide her to another door in a far corner. It led to a second room which appeared to be a mirror image in terms of size and location of fixtures, but was not a bedroom. It appeared to be a library or study of sorts. Large shelves along two walls contained books, scrolls, stacked papers, and all sorts of odd knick knocks and collectible items. There were more wardrobes and dressers, too, so perhaps he used it for extra storage. One person with two whole rooms.
  "This used to be Robert's bedroom," he said. "We were given the opportunity to have our own chambers, but we decided to have these adjoining rooms instead. When he died, I-- repurposed it a little, but kept many of his keepsakes. Mementos. Other things." He led her to a large, painted portrait over the fireplace, which was surrounded by sitting furniture. The portrait was of two young men, and a young woman seated between them. The young men stood behind her with somewhat regal poses and expressions, but each with a gentle hand on her shoulder. The young woman sat straight in her chair, but had a relaxed look to her face, and the slightest of smiles. The young man on the portrait's right looked familiar.
  "It's the three of you," she said quietly.
  "Yes," he said. "We sat for it a year before the plague struck." He tugged slightly on her hand and gestured to this room's door. "Come. I have something else to show you."
  "The likeness to you is very good," she said, still looking at the picture. "Is it the same for them?"
  Kelvin stared at the painting a few moments. "Yes," he whispered, and gestured again for her to follow. She did so now, and he led her back into the hallway, to a room right next to the study. He opened it and let her enter ahead of him.
  The room was the same size and layout of Kelvin's bedroom, including a similar balcony, but with the stone walls somehow white-washed, and the oak lacing the walls and ceilings painted yellow. The carefully-preserved furniture had also been painted light colors that either matched or complemented each other. The furniture, curtains, the decor, the bedding, the paintings - everything spoke instantly of a young woman's room.
  "Flora," whispered Mara.
  "Yes," said Kelvin, stepping up beside her. "Flora's room. Do you like it?"
  "It's lovely," said Mara. "I-I mean I'm not just saying that to be kind. It's very light, and there's a cheerfulness here."
  "Shall we see her parlor?"
  The adjoining room, also painted in light colors, was a parlor, a sitting room, a study, a receiving room. A small, round table near four large windows still had a tea set on it as if ready to serve guests. There was no dust, dirt or grime to be seen, so somebody had been tending to it all these years.
  "Do you like it?" said Kelvin.
  "You've asked me again," said Mara. "Why does it matter?"
  "Because," said Kelvin, "I shouldn't make promises this early, but this could be your room."
  "My--? Oh, I couldn't," she said. "This is her room. You should keep it as is, yes?"
  "Was her room," said Kelvin. "And like you, Flora was sweet and kind, but practical. She wouldn't want the room to never be used again. That would be a waste."
  "What about your parents? Won't they object?"
  Kelvin gave his answer some thought. "Possibly," he said. "But they, too, are practical people. After all, Robert's room wasn't left as a museum. I made it my own, but preserve his memory nonetheless."
  "I don't know," she said quietly. "And this is so large. What would I do with two rooms?"
  "Think about it," he said, and leaned over to kiss her gently. He withdrew, then placed his hand on her cheek. Now she lunged forward into a deep kiss that lasted over a minute. When they parted, she rested her head on his shoulder, and he did the same to hers.
  "You spoke with my parents this morning," he whispered.
  "Yes."
  "I hope that it was a pleasant talk."
  She did not answer right away, but closed her eyes and breathed deeply several times, then straightened up so they could see eye to eye. She opened her mouth several times to speak, then took several more deep breaths for courage.
  "Kelvin," she said, "If we're married... do you expect me to bear children?"
  "Of course," he said with no delay.
  "Of course," she whispered, and looked down briefly. "It really was-- ssstupid of me to think otherwise. But is it because-- you want them, or because it's just-- what people do?"
  "First, you're not stupid," he said. "Second, yes, I do want them. I always have. And not just to continue the royal line. And yes, it is 'what people do.' I said that before, remember? Marriage, and then children follow."
  "Yes, yes, you did say that," she said. "I remember."
  "Mara, what's wrong?" he said. "You seem troubled by this."
  She forced a laugh. "That's what your par- the King and Queen said," she said. "They wondered if I'm troubled by it."
  "Are you?"
  Mara forced another smile, which broke down quickly. She looked down to focus on gathering her courage.
  "Please tell me," said Kelvin. The pleading in his voice gave her the fortitude to be out with it.
  "I have..." she said, her voice wavering, "I have reason to believe, that I would not survive... bearing a child."
  "You... speak of the dangers of childbirth?" said Kelvin. "Darling, I know it would be a lie to claim there is no risk, but you're young. Strong. Healthy. You've survived so many hardships, surely you'd-"
  "I don't mean that," she said. "Please forgive me, Kelvin. I should have said this before, but I lacked the courage. In fact, I'll understand if you want no more of me after learning this."
  "Enough," he said, a little impatiently. "Be plain with me. What- is- the matter?"
  "I have been cursed!" she spat out. "I-- was cursed to die, if I ever bore a child."
  "...What?" said Kelvin. "Why? Who-- By whom? Who would do such a thing?"
  "My mother," she said. "And I don't blame her. She-"
  "Your mother? How could-??"
  "Please let me tell this," she said, and he calmed himself. "I didn't before, and I should have. When you asked about her, I stopped you and said never to ask again. But I should have told you. I should have--" She took another breath. "I killed my own mother, Kelvin. She-- died because of me."
  "...Words fail me," he said, taking a step back. "What did-? How-?"
  "I came out the wrong way," she said. Kelvin tilted his head. "I wouldn't come out because I was turned around the wrong way - legs first, I think - and couldn't come out. And then... my father... he finally had to cut her."
  "Oh, no..."
  "I wouldn't come out unless I was cut out," she said, her lips trembling. "So-- he did and-- then as she lay dying, bleeding to death from a wound that I had caused, she cursed me to die the same way. To die if I ever bore a child. I-- I suppose it would also come out the wrong way, too. I don't know."
  "May I...?" said Kelvin, holding up a hand, "May I ask something? Just for a moment?"
  "Yes."
  "Am I to understand," he said, "That when you say you 'killed' your mother, you mean that she died in childbirth? And he- your father - blamed you for it?"
  "What else do you think I meant?"
  "I know, I know," he said. "I just wanted to make certain of that."
  "What difference does it make?" she said. "The very first thing I did in this world, I did wrong. Dead wrong. And every year, on my birthday - her deathday - Father would send me away so he could be alone, but was sure to remind me of what I'd done."
  "I don't believe this," said Kelvin, closing his eyes and pinching the bridge of his nose. This only irritated her.
  "Wh-? Don't believe-? Do you think I've lied about this?"
  "Not you," he said, then opened his eyes and reached out to hold her by the arms. "NoNoNoNo, not you. Of course I believe you. You lost your mother in a most tragic way; there is nothing to doubt about that. But your father: he lied to you."
  "What??" she bellowed, pulling away from him. "You be careful, sir!"
  "Listen to me," he said. "Please listen to me. I must beg your forgiveness. Out of respect, I have been silent when you tell me these stories of him, but I can be silent no longer. I-- I cannot. Forgive me, but your father-- If your father were here, before me now, I would need to be dragged from the room, lest harm come to him!"
  She gasped. "You call him a liar, and now say that, too?!"
  "Hear me!" he said, "Hear me. This is because of your own words, Mara. All I know of him, I learned from you. And from you, I have learned that your father was an angry, hateful, cruel and... and a brute of a man who twisted the final memory of your mother and his own wife, a-and raised you to believe yourself a murderer! And that you were stupid, and ugly, and-- worthless! And I will tolerate no more of it!"
  "How dare you say such things about him!! Would I say such things about your father? Never!"
  "I understand that I speak out of bounds - I don't blame you for your anger - He was your father and you feel obliged to honor him-"
  "He alone raised me!" she spat. "By himself! No one else!  H-he was all I had! How could I not honor him?"
  "Why did he not honor you??" said Kelvin. She only glared. "Hm? I want to be wrong about him. Please, Mara. Tell me of any moment of kindness from him. Any tenderness. Telling you stories at night. Comforting you when you were afraid, or sad, or 'just because.' Did he ever smile at you? Praise you? Hold you?"
   She was too overwhelmed with a paralyzing mix of anger, confusion and sadness to speak.
  "Mara?" said Kelvin. "Was there any love from him at all?"
  "Why would there be??" she snapped. "Did you not hear anything I said? I- Killed- My- Mother! The woman he-he loved. And my first act being born was to kill her! And you think he lied to me about the curse? I have proof of it! Not long ago, five, six years ago, I began bleeding. There was no wound at all, and yet I bled. And he told me... He told me it was a sign that the curse was starting. He didn't need to remind me every year anymore, for she herself was doing that. And it hasn't stopped. Every month - every time of the waxing moon, in fact - I bleed. Again, from no wound. Not enough to die and it stops in days, but enough to remind me: she's watching me. Waiting."
  Kevin's mouth was open, but he appeared unable to speak.
  "So," she said, trembling, "Yes. There it is. You say he lied to me, and there it is. Someday this curse will catch up to me. So I ask you again: do you really, really want me to bear children?"
  "Yes."
  "Kelvin!"
  "He actually told you... that your monthly bleeding is a curse from your mother?"
  "A reminder of it," she corrected.
  "You had no sisters," he said. "No cousins, aunts, nieces, grandmother... no female relatives or friends? No one to talk to about these things?"
  "No," she grumbled. "You know that already."
  "I must ask your forgiveness again, Mara," he said with an odd calmness. "I cannot withdraw my words. Your father... was a monster."
  Mara tensed every muscle in her body, and glared with an intensity that only pure rage could manage.
  "Your bleeding," he said, still calm. "Forgive the indelicacy of this question, but is it from there?" He pointed down. Mara looked down, then up, and could tell by the angle of his finger where he meant. She squeezed her legs tight.
  "Yes," she growled. "How did you guess that?"
  "I just wanted to make sure," he said. "Mara - My Love - what you described is common for women. It's not a reminder of a curse; it's a natural act for women."
  "How would you know?"
  He held up a hand. "I know, I am a man, so I understand you'll think I know nothing at all about women, but I have been taught and tutored all my life. Many subjects, including Medicine. It happens to all- well, most- women at certain ages. You're in that age."
  "That can't be," she said, shaking her head. "That's ridiculous. There can't be-- Every woman isn't under a curse like mine."
  "It is not a curse," he said. "It is natural. That's why I said what I said about your father. Perhaps he himself was ignorant of that, but I doubt it. He had to at least know it from his wife - your mother - but then to convince you that this-- natural thing is something to be feared? Something that heralds your doom? And no, I was not there, nor did I know your mother, but I still cannot believe that she died with a curse on her lips. It is always a great sadness and a tragedy when a woman dies in childbirth, but do you truly believe that every woman who died so, cursed her own child? That they all blamed an innocent babe of matricide, and not a tragic accident of birth?  Accident, Mara. Without intention. Without malice. An accident. A mother knows this. She knows. Yours had to, too. You just have to trust me."
  "But..." she whispered, "But why would he tell me that if it wasn't true? Why would he...?" Her voice trailed off.
  "I don't know," he said. "I don't know why he directed all of his rage and his hatred at you, but he did."
  "I spent my whole life hoping she'd forgive me," said Mara, her lips trembling. "And when I started to think that-- perhaps she had, but then the bleeding started-- Why does that happen? How could bleeding for days be 'natural?' You say all women do this? Why?"
  Kelvin threw up his hands. "You must ask someone more knowledgeable than I," he said. "The royal physician, perhaps."
  "Should I ask the Queen?"
  "No!" he cried, startling her. "Sorry. That is not a question for her, is all."
  "Oh."
  "I know!" he said. "You should speak with a midwife. Yes, a midwife could answer probably any question you had about women. Perhaps even why 'it' happens."
  "And curses?"
  "No," he said. "Ask about women's medicine." He held out his arms to her. "Mara: please come here."
  She tilted her head and took a step forward. He leaned over enough to take both of her hands, and squeezed them gently. "Hear me," he said. "You are not worthless. You are not stupid. You are not ugly. And you absolutely did not 'kill' your mother. If she were here, now, I think she would be proud of you. I am proud of you. You are the most-"
  Mara had been listening to him with a jumble of chaotic emotions, yet had been still and betrayed none of her feelings, until his last words. Then to both of their surprise she burst into loud tears, and after a moment, fell forward and buried her face on his shoulder. He was taken aback, but recovered quickly and held her, making no effort to stop the weeping.
  "You were right," she bawled.
  "Shhhhh," he said. "You don't need to speak."
  "No, you were right," she said, fighting to get the words out. "Everything you said about him. You're right. I had those same thoughts for years. No, all my life! But I pushed them down, always. I was ashamed of those thoughts. He was my father; I had to honor him! He had raised me! Yet he hated me-- so much-- and I wanted-- I tried so hard, all the time, for him to just-- I wanted him to be proud of me, just once, and he never was. He never was!" Her words dissolved into a sea of tears. Kelvin said nothing, but kissed her once on the nape of her neck, then rested his chin on her shoulder.
  There was a rapid knocking at the door. Mara fought to quiet her tears, but Kelvin parted and gestured for her to stay. He went to the door and opened it only a crack. It was Solomon, looking frantic but contrite.
  "Please pardon me, Your Highness," he said, "But the King has requested your presence. Immediately."
  "Thank you," said Kelvin. "I will be out in a moment." He started to shut the door, but Solomon pushed on it.
  "He was rather insistent on this, Your Highness," he said. "Something about a time limit?"
  "I will bear his wrath, Solomon," said Kelvin. "I will join you in just a moment."
  He shut the door and hurried back to Mara, who had managed to push down her tears for now.
  "I heard him," she said, wiping her nose. "You should go. I've made us go over our time."
  "It's a cruelly small amount of time," he said.
  "But better than none?"
  "I will not leave you until I'm assured that you're all right," he said. "Perhaps not all right, but can you manage? Just say the word and-"
  "Go," she said. "'Go' is my word. These have been... good tears, I think. The only good tears I've had. I have much to think about, but-- No, go. Please. I'll be fine."
  "I'll see you tonight?"
  "Yes. Go."
  Kelvin hesitated, then snatched up one of her hands, kissed it, let go, then fixed his hair and his clothes as he made his way from the room. He looked back one last time before shutting the door. Mara closed her eyes and let out one long, loud sigh, then practiced relaxing herself with slow, deep breaths. In time she felt a calmness that she had no memory of ever feeling before. Almost, but not quite, a true peace. Then a sudden coolness surrounded her body; the hairs on her arms stood up, and she felt something like, but could not be, a person's embrace. Her eyes still closed and her breathing still slow and deep, Mara held out her arms just slightly as if returning the embrace, but held only cool air.
  She opened her eyes, but saw nothing. The coolness went away. There was an eerie silence and stillness to the room.
  "Flora?" whispered Mara, but there was no answer. Of course there was no answer.  Without another word, and as quietly as possible, Mara left the room and returned to her own on the third floor.