Embers & Ash by Marie Whittaker

Author:Marie Whittaker
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Eldros Legacy, Eldros, Epic Fantasy, Epic, Fantasy, Queens, Witches, Sorcery, Giants, Dragons
Publisher: Eldros Legacy
Published: 2023-04-28T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 30

High Queen Mahaela Bellagrave

The Palace Grounds

Mahaela and Alli waited in the foyer to begin the tour of the candidates for the Lottery. Mahaela was already tired of the gown cinched so tight that it seemed it was fusing her internal organs to her backbone. Outside the tall window, a young man stopped to wave before being ushered along by a gaggle of keepers and delegates. She couldn’t imagine the man being that happy if he won the Lottery.

“A dead man smiling if he wins,” Mahaela whispered to Alli.

The maid sighed. “Indeed. It’s so sad.”

“You know, I’m really glad you’re here with me. I know it’s your duty to accompany me, but I want you to know I enjoy your company greatly.”

Alli smiled. “Of course, my queen.”

“Ugh,” Mahaela grunted.

“I enjoy your company as well.”

“Thank you.”

Banu entered the corridor in a swirl cloaks and fake bonhomie.

“Ugh,” whispered Alli. Both women smiled despite themselves. Banu seemed to think they were smiling at him.

“It’s a fine day,” he said, then looked at Alli. “You may go.”

“Allie will accompany me on the tour,” said Mahaela. “Pyranon has not held one in decades.”

“Very well.” He bowed, his eyes flashing.

“Where is Treen?”

Banu straightened. “Who?”

“Treen. My protector for over a decade?” she asked. “You know him quite well. What have you done with him?”

“You think I know something of his whereabouts for what reason? And you’re far too old for a childhood protector. You’re a fully grown queen with large companies of guards watching over you. It’s quite unrealistic to expect an old man to continue his station when there is no need of him.” He straightened his robes. “And you have me, for Astra’s sake. Surely, Treen knows he is no longer needed.”

Mahaela gave him a hateful look. “And Keena? Have you seen him? He’s missing as well.”

“I have not.” Banu’s voice was weary, and he suddenly looked tired. Maybe he was ill.

“I want a party sent to find him.”

“Of course. I’ll see to it once we’re finished with your tour.” Banu swiped at a bead of sweat from his temple and smoothed his hair from his brow.

As he brought his hand down, Mahaela glimpsed a large lump beneath his arm. It was not the first time she’d seen what he called “boils” sprouting somewhere on his body. They were usually the size of an apple, and they made him smell like death.

“If you’re not well, please do not feel obligated to accompany us,” she offered.

“I’ll be fine, High Queen.

“Then we’d better get to it.”

Mahaela started toward the courtyard path which was decorated with tall, knapped stone vases overflowing with ferns, ivy, and blossoms.

Guards surrounded an open-air coach hitched to a duo of muscular dappled gray geldings who were stamping their hooves, nipping at one another, and whipping their tails impatiently. Gold and gems adorned their harnesses, the driver’s livery, and even the spokes on the carriage wheels. The coach glinted in the morning sunlight.

Once she and Alli were seated, the carriage started off at a slow pace.

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