Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Sun kept an eye on her excitable counterparts as she folded her pile of laundry. They were gossiping - indeed when did they stop? - but were also prone to throwing smallclothes or dish rags at each other so Sun wanted enough warning to duck.

Perhaps she was also interested in the gossip - she was as starved for entertainment as everyone else in the castle after all.

“No way in Hell will he put his name forward!” Rachel exclaimed. “He is by far too young and too far down the pecking order!”

“The Queen is young too!” Vishanti pointed out. “And when has rank stopped a man from trying? He is right here in the castle! He might as well try!”

Rachel scoffed. As she countered with her own argument, Sun reflected they were both wrong. Or at least it did not matter if Sir Thomas - another castle guard - tried his hand. Neither maid was considering the Queen would probably not countenance any more romantic proposals for a while. It had only been a week since the conspirators had been sentenced. Though when the shock had faded, the speculation had sprung up like spring buds. Seemingly the names of every male staff member, council member and knight had been thrown around as possible contenders, some of them - such as married Lords - were downright inappropriate. 

Among the castle staff there was also speculation about Tadius’ role that night. Out of respect for the man and his position, the gossip had been deliberately contained to the servants, yet none had refrained from offering an opinion on how much he had ‘assisted’ Yinko cure the Queen of her Redbush ailment.

As the Queen’s personal maid, Sun had the greatest opportunity of all the low-born castle staff to get more intimate details of the Queen’s life and yet had the least inclination to do so. The irony made Sun smile when none could see her.

“Oh.” A new voice interrupted the spirited debate.

Sun, already knowing who it was, turned and curtseyed. She heard Rachel and Vishanti gasp and hurry to do the same.

“Your Grace.” Sun greeted.

“Do pardon me, oh, rise!” Queen Ella insisted. “I was only trying to find the seamstress.”

Sun saw the shift in her queen’s hands, and the tears in the material.

“Oh, your grace!” Rachel saw them too. “How…?”

Mind putting together the pieces faster, Sun intervened. “The seamstress is at her prayers at this hour but Vishanti is skilled at sewing.”

Rachel sent her an annoyed look but Sun ignored it with ease.

Vishanti brightened. “Of course I could take a look if you like, your Grace!”

“If it is no trouble,” the Queen said, “I would not want to keep you from your work.”

“They were mostly discussing how pleasing Sir Thomas is to look at.” Sun drawled.

Rachel and Vishanti glared but the Queen smiled.

“Well, please do not let me stop you.” She waved a hand.

Vishanti took the shift with a curtsey and went to the sewing table.

“I still say that he is too young.” Rachel could not help but say.

Vishanti rolled her eyes from where she sat but her expression morphed into concern as she examined the tears.

The Queen noted that and her shoulders hunched awkwardly. “Truly I do not know if it is salvageable.”

Rachel looked over and her face darkened, finally comprehending. “I hope Sir Hop beat the hell out of him.”

“Nothing worse than a knight with wandering hands.” Vishanti said sharply.

Sun glanced over. She was not skilled at comforting people, so said. “The frog knight does not tolerate such behaviour.”

“Was it a problem before?” The Queen asked.

Rachel answered. “Sometimes. But we travelled in pairs then and Miss Han intervened where she could.”

“And Master Tadius found us that powder.” Vishanti added, shoulders relaxing slightly. “Do you remember?”

“Oh yes!” Rachel nodded. 

Seeing the Queen’s confused frown, Vishanti explained quietly. “It is a kind of dye. If we were ever accosted we would throw it in the knight’s face to stain it.”

“To mark them for everyone to see.” Sun added.

“Only I ever had to use it!” Rachel claimed. “On Sir Hans, the pig.” She glanced at Vishanti as she continued. “After that Master Tadius convinced the Prince to dismiss him, finally.”

The Queen obviously discerned the implication, saying questioningly. “But that is no longer an issue.”

“No, your Grace. Both due to Sir Hop-A-Lot and yourself.” Rachel explained.

“Me?”

With a small shrug, Rachel said. “Well, Master Tadius told us to report any problem immediately and you would believe us.” She smiled. “It is good to have a Queen again.”

The Queen took a moment to think over that before looking up and saying with a full heart. “I am glad you have not needed to.”

“And we are saddened by that.” Sun said quietly, nodding to the shift.

Queen Ella shifted on her feet, gaze darting over to the door. “Yes, well. I have Sir Hop to defend me.”

“When you’re cornered you can always knee them in the balls.” Rachel suggested helpfully.

Vishanti choked and Sun hid a smirk. The Queen’s eyebrow raised.

“Oh!” Rachel held up a hand. “I mean…”

Queen Ella shook her head with a smile. “I’ll have to note that for next time.”

Vishanti piped up. “If they’re wearing plate you’ll have to poke them in the eyes.”

“Oh, your Grace, you should practice!” Rachel exclaimed. “It is harder than you would think.” 

“Jon let us practice on him.” Vishanti mentioned.

Sun spared a moment to silently thank poor Jon the meat cook for taking a beating for the sake of their practicing those years ago. Then she listened to the maids and the Queen discussing how best to injure a man. She was pleased to see the tension melt out of the Queen’s frame. When the conversation petered out, Rachel plucked up the courage to ask.

“Do you think you would take a lover from the castle guard?”

“Rachel!” Vishanti breathed.

While taken aback, Queen Ella did not seem offended. 

Instead she tilted her head. “I had not thought of it, in truth.”

“If hypothetically, Sir Thomas-”

Vishanti huffed loudly, cutting off Rachel’s words and earning herself a glare. 

Queen Ella smiled goodnaturedly. “I would hear out his proposal, though I do not believe he would be successful.” Her eyes twinkled. “So do not feel restrained from claiming him for yourself, Rachel.”

Vishanti hooted in laughter as Rachel blushed and demurred. Sun smirked in her corner, finishing her pile and moving on to finish Vishanti’s.

Like everyone in the realm, Sun had heard the ballad of how their Queen had defeated the usurping trolls and claimed her crown. Everyone knew how many souls were lost to the evil schemes and yet, Sun reflected, sometimes even the castle staff were too blinded by the Queen’s light to remember she was still young, and had lost her dearest friends.

Recalling a comment the Steward had made about ladies-in-waiting, Sun wondered if she should mention anything to the Queen. It had been one year since she had lost her highborn friends and the woman did seem to take to female company. She certainly would benefit from having close confidants.

Sun watched Vishanti explain to Queen Ella how she was repairing one particularly long tear and thought; perhaps tomorrow.

…

As a mouse, Crumb struggled to get around the castle some days. While he could scamper quickly between rooms and up flights of stairs just fine, it was entering the rooms that was sometimes a problem. Door knobs were the bane of his existence.

One advantage of his height, however, was his ability to go unnoticed. Especially as he had learned all of the nooks and crannies, the cracks in the walls that let voices carry between rooms. He could hear better than humans anyway, often catching whispers across rooms, so he observed a lot of small moments of the castle inhabitants.

One day, about a week after the Queen had passed judgement, he was taking a nap in a small crawl space behind the wall of the Queen’s Privy Chamber. Crumb had been training hard all morning so had decided to grab some rest where he could.

Laughter woke him. Rubbing sleep from his eyes, he looked out of the spyhole and saw the Queen with a hand to her chest - her lips pulled wide with mirth.

Master Tadius stood across the desk from her and while Crumb couldn’t see his expression, he seemed relaxed.

Tadius shrugged and said. “It is true! You cannot deny it!”

“I had never thought of that before but you are right.” Queen Ella agreed through chuckles.

Then for some reason she took off her crown, placing it carefully on the desk. Crumb didn’t recognise her expression but Tadius seemed to, straightening as his left hand unclasped his right wrist to bring his hands in front of him. The Queen began to walk around the desk and Tadius met her and…

Crumb’s eyes widened as the humans kissed, arms wrapping around each other. He gasped then covered his mouth. Luckily neither of them seemed to have heard him. They pulled apart, staring at each other, and Crumb realised it was not the first time they had kissed.

With a small laugh, Queen Ella turned back to the desk, reaching for her crown. She changed her mind however, and twisted around; her hand grabbing Tadius’ tunic to pull him in for another kiss. He stumbled slightly but did not seem about to complain, hands going to the Queen’s back and shoulder.

Crumb slipped away, mind turning.

How long had that arrangement been going on? Who had started it? What exactly was it?

If Tadius wished to court the Queen he was not going about it in the usual way. Though Crumb supposed the rules could be different if you worked for the lady. Certainly Queen Ella did not seem to mind - in fact, she was the one who had kissed Tadius in the first place! Perhaps the usual customs did not need to be followed. 

Would Sir Hop-A-Lot agree?

Crumb’s little heart lurched. His master would insist on duelling Master Tadius to test his skills at arms. Had Tadius ever even held a sword?

It could be a disaster!

Crumb set his mind to the task: how to prepare the advisor before Sir Hop found out about the courtship. Crumb did not feel skilled enough to train the man himself but who else…?

Aha!

Crumb was struck by a brilliant idea and scampered off to find his master.

“Arms training for the castle staff?” Sir Hop asked rhetorically. 

He stroked his beard as Crumb tried to refrain from wringing his hands nervously.

“Yes, in the most dire of circumstances it might be useful. Especially for those who are always close to the Queen,” Crumb explained and then dared to say, “for example Miss Sun or Master Tadius.”

Sir Hop hummed in thought. Crumb held his breath. He wondered briefly if he should play on the frog knight’s lingering guilt over his faith in Sir Michael but Sir Hop interrupted the thought.

“Despite the irregularity of such a scheme I cannot see any harm in its execution.” He decided. “If the Queen agrees of course.”

Stage one: complete.

To Crumb’s relief, stage two was also simple to accomplish.

The Queen nodded along readily to Sir Hop’s suggestion and Master Tadius mentioned he had trained with a sword in his youth.

“Whatever the Prince did, I did also.” He drawled.

Crumb had been unable to control his relief but managed to pretend it was a sigh of tiredness when the Queen, Sir Hop and Tadius had glanced at him.

“I am also interested in learning a little about physical defence.” Queen Ella said.

“But…well, that will not be necessary!” Sir Hop declared. “You should not be expected-”

“And yet,” the Queen cut in, “it would please me.”

Crumb’s master hesitated, evidently torn. As she watched him, the Queen’s smile deepened. To no one’s surprise, the frog knight bowed deeply.

“It shall be done.”

Thus a few days later, Crumb helped Master Tadius and other male castle staff to practise basic sword stances but also how to evade sword blows when unarmed - as most of them usually were. There were cooks, gardeners, the biggest stable boy, the blacksmith and his apprentice and even a few clerks.

Crumb was pleased to see Master Tadius seemed to quickly recall the lessons of his youth: his confidence grew rapidly, strikes against the dummy becoming stronger and more purposeful. 

The group had been practising for about an hour when the Queen came into the practice yard.

As keenly attuned to her presence as Crumb was, he sensed her immediately, as did Sir Hop, but the human men were focused on their practice. Crumb glanced at the Queen to see her looking over the group. Another observer might not have seen how her eyes lingered on Master Tadius, particularly the neckline of his tunic, because it was quite subtle. But Crumb noticed.

He split his concentration between the efforts of the men striking the dummies and the Queen conversing with Sir Hop.

Although too far away to hear their words over the noisy yard, Crumb understood the gist through the magic bond: Sir Hop-A-Lot did not consider the endeavour a waste of time and the Queen was pleased. She was also eager to know when it would be the women’s turn. Sir Hop did not have a ready answer.

Crumb stepped forward to correct Jon in his technique. The man thanked him with a rueful grin.

“Cease!” Sir Hop called. “That is enough for one day! Return the practice swords and go back to your duties!”

The men stopped, bending over and panting - or in the case of Master Tadius, putting one hand on their hip and panting.

Crumb went around to collect the practice swords and offer words of encouragement, earning himself some tired smiles. As he took Master Tadius’ sword, the Queen sidled up.

“Very impressive.” She said.

Master Tadius shook his head with a huff. “I’m sure!” 

Crumb noticed the man’s cheeks reddened even more as he hurriedly wiped his sweaty brow.

“Well, I am sorry to pounce on you,” the Queen continued, “but there is an urgent matter with which I request your assistance.”

Tadius straightened and followed. “Of course.”

The mouse noted the pair were heading not for the castle proper but the Captain’s rooms almost adjacent to the training yard. It must be an urgent problem indeed if there was not even time to return to the courtier rooms.

He put his collected swords away and ran up to listen to more of Sir Hop’s pearls of wisdom, feeling proud of his efforts.

The courtship would be successful if Squire Crumb had anything to do with it!

Chapter Text

Tadius felt slightly embarrassed he had not realized his Queen’s purpose until her lips were upon his.

He had of course noted her choice of venue to discuss whatever the ‘urgent matter’ had been, as Sir Hop preferred to spend most of his time prowling the castle and its grounds - or dining among his knights - the old Captain’s rooms were covered in a thin layer of dust; it was the perfect place for a stolen, private moment.

However, Tadius had not considered any of that. He had instead presumed some pressing letter had arrived and the Queen had wished to know Tadius’ opinion before discussing it with her courtiers. Often details of previous gripes and spats between the old royal family, courtiers and noble houses were useful to know, and would sometimes inform the best way to respond. As he had been a stand-in for the prince on the council for years, Tadius had a wealth of knowledge he was eager to share with her.

His only two thoughts in the moment were that he hoped the situation was not dire and that the discussion would be quick so he could wash and change from his sweaty clothes.

Yet once he had closed the door behind them, Ella had pressed up against him and brought their lips together.

Oh! Ohhhhh.

After a moment of sheer surprise, one half of Tadius’ mind filed away Ella’s previous expression as an impatient, lustful one, while the other half concentrated on reciprocating.

His hands went to her waist as he kissed back. Ella hummed, her fingers sinking into his hair.

They kissed deeply, sparks running up Tadius’ spine as her tongue stroked his. Then her hands slipped down to his neck and she buried her nose under his jaw.

Inhaling, she breathed. “Gods, you smell good.”

Tadius’ hands squeezed her waist reflexively.

“Good to know.” He quipped weakly.

Ella kissed his neck. “We do not have much time.”

“What is the hour?” He asked breathlessly.

“Two hours before sunset.” She replied, rubbing her loins against his.

Swallowing a moan and feeling his cock begin to fill, he corrected. “We do not have any time.”

Uncaring of what he’d just said, his hand guided her jaw until their lips met again. They kissed for another long moment until Tadius pulled back.

“Port.”

Ella hummed in question, nosing at his neck once more.

“Lord Martin gets sleepy,” Tadius explained through heavy breaths as Ella pushed his tunic aside to kiss down his chest, “when he drinks port. He’ll-”

Tadius’ words were cut off by a whine as she sucked against his skin.

Valiantly, he continued. “He’ll not last longer than dessert. You can both retire earlyyyyy-!”

Ella’s tongue had licked over one of his nipples.

He huffed a laugh and Ella grinned up at him, dark eyes twinkling.

“Ella.” He said as sternly as he could while half-hard and covered in his lady’s spit.

Pouting, Ella stepped back; her eyes swept up and down his debauched body. Tadius swallowed, attempting in vain to keep his cock from reacting.

Although her smile was self-satisfied, Tadius’ heart still throbbed at the sight of it.

“Come to my rooms after dinner. To strategize.” She ordered.

“Yes, your Grace.” He bowed his head.

Stiffly, he stepped aside and opened the door for her. She glanced at him one last time before setting her shoulders back and stepping out. Closing the door behind her, he leant his hands against it and let out a long breath. His cock throbbed and he narrowly resisted the urge to take it in hand.

Although he technically had no duties to complete for the dinner, it was normal for him to be available in case anything needed doing.

The last thing they needed was for questions to be raised. Tadius was not such a fool as to believe they could keep their…whatever they were doing a secret forever. Yet he hoped.

At least long enough for him to pluck up the courage to ask what exactly it was they were doing. 

Hanging his head, Tadius let out a long breath. He did not know if Ella had read the section of the Royal Code that pertained to taking lovers. In the clearing while comforting her he had planned to look it out for her to peruse, yet when they had started…he had found himself reluctant.

There was no requirement for any public announcement or official declaration - perhaps thousands of nameless lovers had flitted in and out of the castle over the centuries - yet if the monarch wished for their lover to receive specific privileges and recognition among the nobles at court...

What if she did not? What if Queen Ella would prefer not to publicly recognise him as hers?

Or perhaps worse, what if she did?

The doors to the council would be barred to him - the courtiers who’d long wished to be rid of him would insist on upholding the unofficial rule that no lovers to the Crown could mix with official affairs.

Tadius’ heart skipped a beat and his throat dried up as he contemplated the humiliation, the crushing blow to his sense of self that would be losing such a coveted position. A position he had never asked for yet had come to treasure above all else. As little regarded as his voice was in that room, it was still heard. He still had a modicum of influence.

I cannot give that up, he thought. What would I be if I did?

His thumb rubbed against the signet ring on his little finger reflexively and he breathed. After a time he stood up straight, swallowing against the dryness in his throat. His lust had abated enough that his loins would no longer embarrass him when he left.

As much as he desired his Queen, he knew that their passions would be fleeting. Queen Ella was young and while none of her latest suitors interested her, there were plenty of other nobles who would vie for her hand in the years to come and surely at least one would catch her eye.

Tadius was only her first lover but he could be an advisor for a long time.

Until she remembers the whole Code.

It was an old fear, born when he’d realised how competent a ruler she was going to be. Tadius grit his teeth and told himself that even when Ella felt comfortable with all of the Royal Codes and Protocol she would still value his advice and knowledge. 

The more he saw her excelling in her role, the less he believed it.

...

As Tadius had predicted, Lord Martin began to flag just as the dessert plates were being taken away. Ella offered sweet tea but the Lord declined.

The Queen was glad.

Not just because she could slip upstairs sooner but also the Lord was not the most engaging conversationalist in the world. Knowledgeable and experienced in running his estate, how best to manage the royal coin, the history and current landscape of the realm, yes, but not able to communicate any of that in an entertaining way.

Ella was still willing to give time to all of her vassals of course. Though she did not linger on the idea of her next meal with the man.

Ella nodded at Sun at the dining hall doors.

“I will be fine tonight, thank you.”

The maid curtseyed and refrained from showing any curiosity as to the reason - if indeed she felt any. Forcing herself to walk unhurriedly, Ella clasped her hands together in anticipation.

It had been the height of foolishness to pounce on Tadius in that way within striking distance of the training yard and yet, even knowing that, she had been unable to stop herself.

As the dust had settled from the betrayals and judgements, Ella had found herself drawn more and more to her favourite advisor. She could often be found staring into space; remembering the feeling of his lips on hers, his hands dancing across her skin, his fingers deep in-

On the stairs Ella frowned as she focused on walking up without tripping. That would be embarrassing to prove to her guards she could not safely mount stairs unassisted.

She had never experienced such a fixation before. While she had gossiped about boys with the Grizzwalds - and blushed at young Lords’ attention back when her parents were living - the near-obsession was completely new. When Tadius was in the same room, she was extremely aware of him. When he wasn’t, she was thinking about when she could next see him; when he could next touch her.

However strange those new feelings were, they were a vast improvement on the fear and uncertainty she’d felt before. Ella was determined to grab onto the experience with both hands and not let go.

When they reached the floor of her rooms, Tadius was waiting outside the door.

He looked perfectly put together in a fresh tunic and he’d smoothed down his hair. Sir Siyung looked back at Ella - a question on his face. She smiled back at him: yes, she had been expecting Tadius. The other knight’s hand went to the pommel of his sword. Ella tensed but although Tadius’ eyes also glanced at the fight-ready stance, he ignored it: bowing.

“Your Grace.”

“Master Tadius! Good. We have much to discuss.”

The second knight relaxed and Ella let out a long breath. She and Tadius went into her rooms and Ella waited until he had closed the door before attempting to jest.

“I feared you would have to prove your skills, then.”

“If it had been Sir Hop-A-Lot, I may have had to.” Tadius replied, in a tone dancing between jesting and serious. “Or he would have simply insisted on accompanying us inside.”

Ella did not want to contemplate that very astute prediction, so she batted the thought away. She fixed a stare on him and he recognized it immediately, body responding. Her hands went up to her hair before she remembered she had not worn a crown for dinner - Lord Martin saw her often enough to not need the reminder of her station.

In the time she had taken to make her realization, Tadius had stalked forward. He took her hands in his but she stepped into him afore he could do anything else. She brought their faces close together, just shy of kissing. Breathing in, Ella was pleased she could still smell him, even though the scent was not as strong as before. She remembered the sweat beading on his brow, and neck, his curls even more unruly than usual and his chest heaving in breaths. It truly had been an irresistible sight.

She pushed in closer and as Tadius did not release her hands, she felt the slight stretch in her shoulders. Her cunny tingled.

“Remind me to train with a sword more often.” Tadius murmured.

“I will.” Ella replied.

“Has Sir Hop planned a time for the ladies’ turn?”

“Not yet. I believe he will try to stall forever.”

She raised on her toes to draw level but he moved back ever so slightly to keep their lips apart.

“I’ve heard it said that anticipation increases the pleasure.” He said.

“We’ve been anticipating this all day!” Ella complained.

Instead of prolonging his teasing, Tadius flushed and his grip on her hands loosened enough for her to press her lips on his. As they both relaxed into the kiss, he let go of her hands. She immediately brought them up to wrap around him and he did the same, pulling her in closer. Deepening the kiss Ella pressed her body flush against his. Something settled inside her and she relished the comfort for what felt longer than it probably was.

Then a daring hand squeezed one of her asscheeks through her dress and she grinned into the kiss. Eagerness flared and her fingers worried Tadius’ clothes, urging them off his body.

“This is,” he panted, “hardly fair!” 

The complaint could not be fully meant as he helped her rid him of his tunic and breeches. 

Still fully clothed, Ella looked down at his bare legs and chest.

“Alas I don't agree. I think this is very agreeable.”

The look he sent back was half-exasperated, half-lustful. Ella let him pull her back onto a kiss and wasted no time in feeling his soft skin. His fingers went to the clasps of her evening gown and she sighed as the corset section loosened. She undid the rest of the ties and simply moved back to step out of the stiff structure. Both of them ignored the crumpling dress, coming back together and quickly whipping off her shift as well. 

Ella hardly had any time to shiver in the chill before Tadius bent down to sweep her into his arms. With delight, she let him, one arm hooking around his shoulder as she laughed. He looked very pleased with himself as he carried her to the bedchamber.

Ella’s body thrummed. It was a new experience to be carried in such a way and yet she knew she was completely safe. Though he staggered slightly to maneuver them through the doorway, Tadius managed to gently deposit her on the bed and she used her newly free legs to urge him onto the bed too. From the momentum gained, Ella had a flash of inspiration and rolled them so she was atop him. 

Far from troubled, he was laughing beneath her. Laughing too, she bent down to kiss him. He responded eagerly, one hand stroking her neck and shoulders as he propped himself up with the other. She sank fingers into his hair, causing him to mumble something against her lips.

Ella’s loins jerked and in tandem they groaned into each other’s mouths. Her sex tingled and ached as she rubbed it against his hard length

Hand slipping down his chest, Ella murmured. “Sweet Fae Mother, I want you in me.”

“Gods!” Tadius gasped. “Ella. We can’t!”

“I know.” She sighed.

One hand sliding down her side, Tadius murmured. “Anticipation.”

“Odious word.” Ella said, her thumb rubbing along his hip.

“Terrible.” Tadius agreed, nodding quickly.

“‘Oil’ is a good one, though.”

“Huh?”

“On the table.” Ella nodded to the bedside table.

Tadius looked over and saw the jar there.

He looked back at her and grinned. “It is grand indeed.”

Though when he stretched out, his arm only reached halfway across the mattress. Ella smiled at the sight. He tried fruitlessly to shift from beneath her for another moment before giving up.

With an amused huff, Tadius looked up at her. “If you don’t mind.”

“If I don’t mind, what?” Ella asked, stretching her arms over her head as if tired.

Tadius gasped, eyes fixed on her breasts, and squirmed beneath her, rubbing their loins together even as his hands found her hips. Humming, Ella bent down and teased between kisses to his neck. “Surely you do not need training to get out fro-”

Evidently his mind had refocused because Ella’s centre of gravity shifted and she found herself rolled onto her back. Tadius’ grin was so wide it almost hurt to look up at it.

“Aha!” He exclaimed, stretching out again.

Then he frowned. Ella followed his gaze to see he still could not reach the bedside table. The giggle leapt out of her mouth unbidden.

“Damn bed, why make them this big?” Tadius muttered.

Mischief threading with excitement through her chest, Ella surged up, pushing his left shoulder back to roll them once again.

“Wait!” Tadius’ warning came too late.

Ella landed on her knees, Tadius on his back, and instantly the two of them began to slide sideways off the mattress. Urgently, Ella clamped her falling knee to the side of the bed, hand slamming down on Tadius’ shoulder. She rocked back her weight onto the mattress and together they wiggled back on securely. Laughing.

“Troublemaker!” Tadius huffed.

“I was not the one who designed this ill-proportioned bed!” Ella protested through a grin.

Tadius’ eyes danced with amusement even as he shot her a stern look and urged her to stay still. He sat up and took up the pot of oil, coating the fingers of one hand with it.

Lust flared again through Ella’s loins. She outstretched her hand.

“I am not sure I trust you.” Tadius jested even as he poured a measure of oil onto her hand.

“I’ll be careful.” She sing-songed.

“Well, I am glad to-”

Tadius’ voice cut out as Ella freed his cock from his smallclothes and took it firmly in her slicked up hand. His groan was caught in his throat and Ella relished how his whole body reacted, tensing and twitching. Even his eyes fluttered slightly. She moved her hand up and down a few times, getting a feel for the motion.

“Gods, Ella!”

Ella’s cunny throbbed at his desperate cry. She wanted to hear him in such ecstasy at least once a day. Perhaps she should have him write up an addition to the castle charter: that would make the both of them hot and bothered in the courtier room.

She felt him shift and refocused in time to see him lick her left nipple. Moaning a little, she leaned into him and gave no resistance as he nudged her backwards. Together they rearranged their legs so Ella had one hand on Tadius’ cock and he had one hand on her cunny.

Ella fought to concentrate on what she was doing as Tadius stroked and rubbed her cunny with a practiced hand. How was he so skilled? ‘Twas unfair!

“Bastard!” She breathed as his fingers circled her clit.

In retribution she stroked him faster, grinning as she felt the air that punched out of him.

“Ella!” He gasped, free hand cupping under her jaw.

Soaking in his half-lidded eyes and soft mouth, Ella felt lighter than she had in years.

“Are you close?” She asked.

His fingers stuttered.

“Yes.” He admitted immediately.

Hot and sweaty and light, Ella debated whether to tease him or keep going.

“You?” He asked, thumb stroking her cheek.

And suddenly she wished to give him everything he’d ever wanted.

She sped up her hand. “Come for me.”

He did, whispering her praises, and she leaned in to hold him through it: closing her eyes and smiling.

She was determined to commit every facet of the moment to memory.

Chapter Text

Freshly wiped clean and in her small clothes, Ella draped herself over Tadius. She was still feeling fizzy and light from her orgasm, provided by the energized and focused machine that had been Tadius. She was also still proud of herself for causing his. Tadius smiled down at her, fingers trailing over her arm.

After a long, sated moment, he began to say. “I should go-”

Covering the swooping sensation in her chest with a bright smile, Ella replied. “Uh, uh! Not until your sovereign says!”

Smile deepening, Tadius hummed in agreement and continued to stroke her skin soothingly. From her position, Ella could clearly see the scar on his shoulder. She reached up and touched it gently.

“Where did you pick up this war wound?”

“Not in a war.” He drawled.

“You did not take up arms for your sovereign against the Church?” She teased.

“How old do you think I am?” He half-asked, half-exclaimed. 

“Well…”

“We are of age, I will have you know.” He said loftily.

Ella giggled then she glanced at his face and he met her gaze. She saw some buried emotion surfacing in his eyes. Neither spoke for a moment as he saw her noticing.

“You do not have to tell me.” She said.

His lips pulled up in a sad smile. “There was no tragedy, nor even a fight. T’was an accident.”

“The Prince?” Ella guessed.

Tadius’ expression all but confirmed it. He also nodded a little, allowing her mind to keep turning. She traced along the raised line, down under his collar bone.

“You said you both trained with swords.”

He watched her think and in lieu of answering, gently brushed a few hairs from her face.

“Practice swords are too blunt to part the skin so.” She could picture the fresh wound vividly: a thin red line, weeping and inflamed; the cause: the Prince brandishing and Tadius cringing away.

She heard her voice turn hard. “He made you switch to real ones. Despite knowing it was dangerous.”

Ella did not know her own expression but Tadius saw something there to make him squeeze her arm.

“It was an accident.” He insisted quietly. “He did not intend to harm me. I could have refused to engage and avoided the whole business.”

Fighting the urge to roll her eyes, Ella replied. “As if you could have refused him.”

“At the end, no. But back then.” Tadius looked down at his scar. “I could have.” He turned his face to her, smiling sadly. “He did heed me, once. We were…” He swallowed and shook his head a little. “There was even a time when he was… sweet.”

“Sweet?”

“Generous even.”

“When it did not inconvenience him.” Ella supposed.

Tadius’ sad, huffed laugh proved her words accurate again. As she watched, something passed over his face.

“What?”

He blinked and the shadow on his face faded. “It is naught. Just remembering past follies.”

Ella’s heart ached. Shifting up, she kissed the top of the scar.

“It does not pain me anymore.” He whispered.

She continued to kiss down the thin line, trying to press all her affection for him through her lips. When she reached his breast though, the sound of an arrow whistled in her ear. 

Thud.

Her mind’s eye showed Justine’s pained surprise. Ella’s head jerked up. Tadius stared back at her, expression shifting from relaxed pleasure into concern.

“What is it?”

“Bad memories.” Ella whispered.

She put her forehead down on his chest and closed her eyes. Fists clenching, the urge to scream crawled up her torso into her shoulders.

They’re dead. They’re DEAD.

You failed them!

The trapped scream hovered in her throat, dangerously close to escaping. Gentle fingers stroked through the hair at the top of her head and a hand laid itself on one of her fists. Feeling as if she were leaping from a cliff face, Ella opened the fist and grabbed on. Their hands clasped together, tightly. Focusing on the hands against her skin, Ella fought to ignore the voices.

Are you in trouble, dear one?

The gods are good!

-on a silver platter!Lucy?-her in Hell!

Ssssh…it’s alright.

After an eternity, the scream fell back down and Ella let out a long, shaky breath. The gentle fingers kept stroking soothingly and the strong hand held onto hers.

Her other fist unclenched and she laid her palm over Tadius’ side. Now calmer, she felt him breathing and tried to copy the rhythm. 

When she felt together enough to speak, she murmured into his chest. “Can we forget this ever happened?”

His fingers didn’t stop stroking her hair but she felt his hesitation before he replied. “For tonight.”

Ella grumbled under her breath but as Tadius squeezed the hand he still held, she pressed her cheek on his chest and sighed.

“Alright.”

“I did not know.” He said softly.

Ella did not want to know what exactly he meant by that so she stayed silent.

After a time, he asked. “Do you want me to stay?”

Ella considered. Her knee-jerk answer was ‘of course’. Yet.

It had been a year since that awful night. Ella should no longer be lingering on it. And she knew her sleep would be troubled. And it would be difficult to explain to anyone why he had stayed the night.

“No,” she sighed, “I’ll be fine.”

Still looking worried, Tadius nonetheless said quietly. “Alright.”

After a few seconds Ella forced herself to pull away.

And Tadius let her.

…

“The Physician to see you, your Grace.” Sir Siyung announced.

Yinko fingered the wooden box in her pocket, attempting to convince herself that she had made the right decision. She bowed as she was waved in and looked the Queen over. At her breakfast, she did not look too well: there were dark circles under her eyes, thin lines in her forehead and a stiffness in her posture which all pointed to plagued dreams. 

Refraining from commenting, Yinko went straight to the point.

“Apologies, your Grace. I just wished to catch you before your day began.”

The Queen waved an inviting hand before taking another bite of her eggs. Yinko’s gaze caught on the food momentarily - good: lots of protein - then she began.

“First, I know my official remit is physical health but there are other areas I can…assist with.”

The lines in the Queen’s forehead deepened.

“Such as?” She asked after swallowing.

Yinko reached into her pocket and lifted out a small wooden box, “I brought you something in case my Queen has need of them.”

Curious, the Queen leaned forward as Yinko opened the box. 

“Sheathes made from sheep-guts.” Yinko explained.

The Queen’s eyes widened.

Yinko continued. “If her Grace is going to lay with men, I advise-”

“Yes, thank you.” The Queen interrupted, brow furrowed as she stared at the box. “I know what their purpose is!”

“Excellent!” Yinko ignored the disapproving look with years of practice. “May I verify that you know how to put them on? Or that he does?”

The Queen’s head snapped up. “What do you… who are you insinuating I have laid with?”

Yinko held up her free hand. “As your physician I am trying to ensure your good health. As your servant I have no business knowing details of your personal life and as a member of this household,” she dared lift her lips in a small smile, “I merely wish for your happiness.”

Queen Ella settled a little at the admission Yinko was not judging her and yet insisted.

“You did not answer my question.”

Yinko had already decided not to relay the buzzing around the castle since the previous afternoon, with whispers of the Queen stealing her favoured advisor away for private moments. Gossip was not a physician’s purpose and in any case Yinko had not heard anyone who was certain of lovemaking. Wagers were being made but no one had proof of anything. Instead, she mentioned her own reasoning.

“If I may remind Her Grace that I was there when Master Tadius aided your recovery from the Redbush Flowers.”

“That was an extraordinary circumstance.” Ella replied, voice wavering slightly.

“Yes.” Yinko conceded, closing the box. “But if it were to become a more likely situation, I am suggesting caution. There are also poti-”

The Queen waved a negating hand. Dutifully, Yinko waited.

After a moment, the Queen crossed her hands across her lap, straightening in her seat. “What are people saying?”

Direct questions were harder to maneuver around so Yinko thought a moment before answering. “I usually don’t put much stock in gossip so while there was talk yesterday of some stolen moment-”

The Queen’s eyes slipped closed, all but confirming there had been something.

Yinko continued smoothly, “I prefer to trust mine own eyes and ears.”

“And?”

“There is some attraction there…some affection, is there not?”

The Queen sighed, folding her napkin and standing. Yinko watched as the Queen walked to the window.

“In truth I am not sure how I feel.” She said softly. “He is…important to me.”

“As a servant or as a man?”

“Both. I…he is the closest I have to a friend.”

“Closer than your animal friends?”

The Queen smiled ruefully. “Sir Hop-A-Lot and Crumb are dear to me but…I am not sure they could contradict me or act outside their roles.”

Yinko waited silently as the Queen thought. 

“I do desire him.” She said finally. “And I know he desires me.”

“That seems agreeable. Yet something troubles you?”

“I fear that I am becoming too reliant on him.”

“Forgive me, might you define ‘too reliant’?”

A knock on the door interrupted any possible answer. The Queen raised her hand to indicate their conversation was not ended.

“Enter!”

A knight came in. “Lady Siobhan to see you, your Grace.”

The Queen looked surprised but nodded. She glanced at Yinko who almost shrugged her shoulders, truly the physician had hardly spoken to the noblewoman beyond prescribing herbs to soothe the aches in the lady’s old joints. 

Lady Siobhan entered, curtseying. “Your Grace, Physician, I do apologise for the early hour. I merely wanted to bring a matter to your attention before the council meeting this afternoon.”

“Yes, what is it?” The Queen asked, tone just shy of being brusque.

Looking slightly dismayed, the lady said hurriedly. “It is regarding your relationship with Master Tadius.”

The Queen stiffened even more.

“I am terribly sorry if this is untrue, do disregard it if so, but my maid said Master Tadius was seen leaving your bedchambers late last night.”

Queen Ella stared, seemingly frozen. Yinko’s heart ached but she restrained herself from offering her advice (to make the man a Lord and wed him).

“I wanted to confirm whether you do or do not wish to officially declare him as a lover.” Lady Siobhan barreled on, eyes darting from the Queen’s face to the floor and back again. “If that is indeed the case. Now, I am aware that usually Master Tadius handles communication from yourself to heralds but I recognise on this occasion it might not be appropriate. I could make arrangements if needed, both with the council and the court at large.”

There was a beat of absolute silence.

“Why?” Queen Ella asked.

“Your Grace?”

“Why is it anyone’s business whether or not he is my lover? Official or otherwise.”

Lady Siobhan seemed taken aback but did not hesitate long to explain. “While it is by no means necessary and indeed, many royals have enjoyed undeclared lovers, it is possible for a monarch to announce their attachment. It is not considered as serious and binding as the role of Consort, yet it does put a certain claim on the person,” she paused, then added with a wince, “or persons.”

Having treated the Prince’s various venereal ailments, Yinko recognised that particular brand of wince. 

The older woman paused, waiting for a reaction from the queen. When she did not receive one, she continued - her gaze torn between Yinko and the monarch.

“And…well, there are some budgetary considerations.”

“There are?” Yinko blurted without thinking.

Lady Siobhan shot her a look but as the Queen said nothing, she explained further. “While not as extensive as that of a Consort, official lovers are entitled to a small allowance at the discretion of the monarch.”

“I imagine Lord Martin is eager to know about that.” Yinko speculated.

Tentatively, the Lady added. “There is the option of a title and as the nobility will be informed they would respond accordingly. And…” She shifted on her feet briefly before continuing with more careful words. “It is not usual for lovers of any kind to attend council meetings. Due to unfortunate events in the past.”

There was a pause as the Queen thought.

“How long have the council members been discussing this matter without my knowledge?” While the tone was not accusatory, it was not without bite.

Lady Siobhan’s lip quivered. “Well… not long, your Grace. While your affection for Master Tadius was noted previously, in recent days there has been some discussion as to whether your relationship had changed. When I heard from my maid the rumours, I decided by myself to ask you directly. Woman to woman-”

“Has anyone spoken to Master Tadius about this?” The Queen interrupted.

“Not that I know of. Truly, your Grace, you need not make a decision at this moment. If you do intend to officially declare!” The lady’s hands fluttered appeasingly. “I only thought that Lord Martin would be like to ask later today-”

The Queen held up a hand. 

Belatedly she said. “Thank you for your consideration and foresight.” Her voice softened. “It is appreciated.”

Lady Siobhan curtseyed, letting out a small, relieved sigh. Then she said tentatively. “If I may, I’ve always thought he was a nice boy.” The Lady looked at Yinko and said in a hushed, pleased tone. “Always so polite. And he’s about my son’s age, so perhaps that plays into it as well.”

Yinko smiled encouragingly but did not give her thoughts on the matter.

The Queen blinked and then nodded. “Yes, well. I neither confirm nor deny these rumours.” 

The Lady nodded vigorously.

With an awkward smile, the Queen said. “I will think on the matter and tell the council my deci-” she corrected her words, “we will discuss this at the meeting later today.”

With another curtsey and small smile, Lady Siobhan left.

In the moment of silence after the door closed behind her, Yinko analysed the Queen’s expression and thought back to her reactions before. It was clear the last thing the Queen wished to do was make such a decision and yet she saw the necessity. Realising she was still holding the box containing the sheathes, Yinko carefully set it down on the dining table. 

“Perhaps,” Yinko ventured, “if I may be so bold, you might speak to Master Tadius about it.”

Frowning, Queen Ella said. “He has mentioned nothing of official declarations to me.”

“And we are unaware of the reason behind that decision.” Yinko pointed out.

If it even were a conscious choice at all, she thought; knowing what she did about passion and doubt.

Queen Ella seemed mollified by her comment though, muttering. “Indeed.”

Then she straightened and nodded to Yinko. “Thank you for your assistance.”

Yinko bowed in return and left. She hoped the two spoke honestly with each other and found a way to be together.

Yet her years of experience offered her many reasons to doubt that would happen anytime soon.

…

Sir Hop-A-Lot was still bristling from the crown of his head to his webbed toes as he marched to the Queen’s Solarium. He had caught wind of the whole thing in the Knight’s Hall and had decided to immediately consult with his Queen. A low-born lover to their beautiful and wise Queen? Over his dead and rotting body!

How could such a man, that Sir Hop had previously considered sensible, ever think himself worthy? Alas, he could not fight the servant with steel as the boy was not…

Sir Hop’s eyes narrowed in suspicion as he remembered the recent arms training for castle staff; suggested by his own squire. Hm. A thread to pull on later…

Sir Hop reached the Solarium, nodding to the knight stationed outside before knocking and entering.

“My Queen!” Sir Hop exclaimed.

It was a louder shout than he’d intended due to the duplicitous servant seated on a chaise beside the Queen. Beside her! A place no servant should be!

The man startled but Queen Ella did not. Instead she turned her stern gaze upon her knight.

“Yes?”

Pushing through the wave of annoyance from his monarch, Sir Hop gestured at the servant in answer. The Queen’s eyes flashed and her nostrils flared.

“Good sir knight,” she began with an overly formal bite, “we are in the middle of an important discussion. State your business.”

“Protecting you!”

The Queen’s glare intensified.

“Your reputation.” Sir Hop corrected.

He felt a thin thread of fear unravelling in his chest as her irritation only grew.

“That is not your concern.”

Sir Hop wavered. Her dismissal was sharp on his tongue yet… 

Her expression softened. “All is well, I promise.”

Sir Hop glanced at the servant who seemed stricken - good! - before giving in. He bowed.

“My Queen.” And he left.

While he was marching away from the Solarium, however, he was halted by a small cry.

“Sir!” 

The frog knight looked around and spotted his squire around the other side of the glass building, hiding in a shrub and crouched under a window.

Before Sir Hop could speak, he heard the Queen’s voice.

“I insist.”

If the servant replied, it was not with words.

“Crumb!” Sir Hop hissed, disapproving frown heavy on his brows.

The mouse did look cowed but put a finger to his lips.

“Where were we?” The Queen’s voice floated down to them.

“I was explaining how I came to attend council meetings despite never being officially inducted into the council.” The servant said.

“Oh yes, the Prince.”

“Indeed, he is essentially the beginning and end of that story.”

“Hm. So you would prefer to be inducted as an official member to the council instead of becoming my lover?”

Sir Hop’s eyes bugged. She was not seriously considering taking a commoner, a servant!, as a lover? There were many noble houses with men who knew how to fight - surely one of them would be a suitable match instead of needing to bother with a stop-gap solution!

“You would truly consider it?” The servant asked, surprise ringing clear in his tone.

“You know me well enough to know I do not make false promises, do you not?”

“Of course. Well, I…I do appreciate attending the meetings and being able to advise you,” the advisor said, “yet…I would not be able to hold you at night.”

The frog choked and grabbed his squire by the scruff of the neck, pulling him away. Crumb protested but Sir Hop had heard enough. While he did not approve of his lady’s decision, ultimately it was hers to make - she had signalled that to him most clearly.

“Come, Crumb!” He cried. “Let us spar to set our minds straight.”

Pouting, the little mouse still followed him to the training yard.

“I just want to help!” He said.

“If he dishonours our Queen in any way, then we can help.” Sir Hop replied.

Crumb frowned. “I do not think he would do that.”

“Ah, but men are weak, fickle creatures, my boy! You cannot rely on their self-control.”

Crumb looked disquieted at that but did not argue further. As they took their positions, Sir Hop tried to follow his own advice and let his mind focus on the fight.

…

In the solarium, Ella fought a blush. She also desired the ability to share a bed with Tadius, for pleasure but also for comfort. By the same token, Tadius’ presence in council meetings brought her a measure of assurance. His advice after the meetings was all the more valuable for having seen and heard how the courtiers had acted.

Ella was still kicking herself for her folly the day before. Instead of taking time to carefully consider their move, now they had to make a quick choice before the council meeting in a few hours. A meeting Tadius might not be able to attend.

She still remembered his expression when he’d entered the room: stiff-shouldered and firm-lipped. He had evidently heard of the rumours - if Lady Siobhan’s maid had known, no doubt every other castle member did. Ella’s heart had been in her throat and she had needed to force herself to speak. And yet her nerves had been dislodged by surprise when he had commented that he had not ever been an official member of the council anyhow.

How could she not have known that?

Tadius must have seen the frustration on her face because he sat up even straighter.

“It has been a year of meetings, you- Ella. By now you have some idea of the merits of your various courtiers and your own strengths as a ruler.”

Ella tilted her head. That was true.

Tadius rubbed his cheek with a thumb and said, voice a little too tight to be casual. “There is no rule that forbids you from mentioning council business to lovers.”

“Provided the information remains between us.” Ella guessed.

“Precisely.”

Tadius did not look any more at ease as he added haltingly. “There may be one or two who would harbor the suspicion of my attempted influence on your decisions.”

“Indeed?” 

Ella’s mind showed her Lord Andrew’s suspicious eyes and upturned nose whenever he looked at Tadius. It was unfortunate that of all the council members that Lord seemed to dislike Tadius the most.

While each of the council members aided the sovereign in a specific area - Lord Martin advised on finances, Lady Siobahn on foreign relations, Lord Edoardo on agriculture, Lady Livia on security and defence and Lord Andrew on historical precedence and protocol - they also were unofficially representing the interests of their own families or one of the old families. Lord Martin was the brother to the head of House Peters, Lady Siobhan hailed from a lower branch of House Mountsend, Lady Livia of House Garcia represented House Lorca and Lord Edoardo Brambilla was vassal for House Leonardi.

Lord Andrew of House Fawncourt was the vassal of House Silverhead.

No one had mentioned that family’s name since the judgements but Ella knew at some point the question of their continued loyalty needed to be addressed. Soon.

“Well, I fancy that to be inevitable.” Ella said with a barely-controlled sigh.

She looked closer at Tadius. “Are you sure you want to give up your seat?”

From his face, it was obvious the answer was ‘no’. Though in true Tadius fashion he did not voice his real desire.

“It was never supposed to be mine in the first place.” He said, voice soft.

Ella’s heart ached though she fought not to let that show. Her favoured advisor often took sympathy as a sign he had borne too much of his soul and then firmly boxed himself up again. Instead Ella went with practicality.

“Well, as it is in the monarch’s right to appoint whoever they like to the council, I do not see why you cannot stay.”

Tadius’ lip twitched in an infinitesimal smile before he explained. “I can show you the records that detail the unfortunate incidents Lady Siobhan mentioned to you. While you may not personally agree with the decisions made in light of them, I doubt you will find logical fault in them.”

“Do you personally agree?”

“After losing my train of thought a number of times while thinking of you during the meetings,” his cheeks pinkened a little, “I understand why those incidents occurred.” He visibly swallowed. “I have never felt passion like this. So yes, I agree some measures are necessary. And there is no point in upsetting the council unnecessarily.”

Ella liked the idea that Tadius had been as distracted as she had. Still…

“Hang the council! I will not take this away from you for their sake, or my own.”

Tadius took a quick breath in and reached for Ella’s hands. She gave them and he clasped them firmly as he leaned in a little.

“Ultimately it is your decision-”

“I will not-”

“Please, Ella, let me finish my thought.” He chastised gently.

Letting out a huff, Ella closed her mouth and pasted a wide, almost-sarcastic smile on her face.

Tadius smiled a true smile and continued. “As Queen, your decision is the final one, yet I will offer my feelings for your consideration.”

Hm. That sounds agree-

“I adore you.”

Ella’s breath caught.

For a moment, Tadius looked as if he would take back the words, fingers tightening around hers, but then he lifted his chin a little.

“Any moment spent with you is a moment I treasure, in a council room or in your bedchambers, in the end it matters little where or how.”

Ella’s heart thumped and her head felt light all of a sudden.

“And…” 

He shifted in his seat, Ella copying him without thinking.

“If you would like someone in your bed at night, holding you,” he swallowed, “I would like, very much, to be the one.”

Ella’s lips were a little numb as she replied. “I want that. I want you to be the one.”

Tadius smiled a slow, wondrous smile that made Ella’s cheeks hurt. It took a moment to realise that the ache was from her own, wide, happy smile.

Then her rational mind offered her:

“You will tell me if you wish to reverse this? If we go down this road and it is not…it does not work.”

Tadius hesitated.

“Tadius…”

He let out a small breath. “In truth I do not know if I would be able to speak the words but, I promise I will not try to hide my feelings from you.”

Ella looked down at their joined hands.

“So,” she swallowed, “we are officially declaring you a lover to the monarch, then?”

“Yes, I…Yes.”

Ella nodded even as her heart sank. She was aching for the companionship Tadius was poised to give her, so why was dread creeping through her like a thief in the night?

Tadius’ thumbs rubbed over the back of her hands soothingly. She looked at his face and saw patience there. He was not offended or worried by her silence or pinched brows. Justine’s face floated in her mind’s eye: compassionate and true and…

In that moment she realized the source of her dismay: anything that could be given, could also be taken away. Ella had learned that lesson a few times already.

“Forgive me, I do not know…” Her throat closed around her words.

“You need not make any announcement today.” Tadius said gently. “Tell Lord Martin to prepare for either eventuality.”

Ella freed one of her hands and pressed it to her face. “I will not be indecisive or weak. I…” she forced her chin up. “I will not be a coward.”

Tadius squeezed her remaining hand in his. “You can be a coward with me, Ella. I will think no less of you for it.”

Ella’s eyes burned. Her mouth would not open as her throat dried up. Tadius shuffled closer, which Ella felt rather than saw as her vision disappeared behind a wall of tears. An arm laid itself over her shoulders and she leaned forward gratefully; tears spilling over.

“It’s alright.” Tadius said softly.

Pressing her face into his neck, Ella stifled a sob. 

He rubbed the back of her hand gently. “I’m here. However you need me.”

Overcome, Ella lost control and began to cry quietly. Tadius whispered comforting words as he held her.

Let me have this, Ella prayed.

Please.

Chapter Text

“So, what do you think Her Grace will do?”

Lady Siobahn turned to regard Lord Edoardo, frowning at his question.

Lord Martin watched, considering the new information. While glad he had instructed his attendant not to relay castle gossip to him in order to avoid being bothered by every little feud or romance, the tale of Master Tadius leaving Queen Ella’s rooms late at night had been an important one.

He was more glad that Lady Siobahn had recognised that fact and was updating the council before the Queen’s arrival at the meeting. All of the council members were gathered in the Council Room - a good-sized room built to accommodate up to twenty people - though a monarch who employed a council that big was considered weak-minded. A large, mahogany table in the centre was the main feature, though a small writing desk for a clerk to keep records hugged a corner and there was a small sideboard for a water jug and other refreshments if meetings ran long.

“I know not.” The Lady replied to Edoardo’s question before immediately qualifying. “If what we suspect is true.”

“How could it be?” Lord Andrew cut in, turning from one of the large windows. “The Queen is young but sensible. Not as flighty as we’d feared.”

“She has grown much this past year.” Edoardo added, affection clear in his voice.

Martin’s heart echoed the sentiment. He could still remember the Queen on the days before her coronation: uncertain but trying not to appear so. She had hung onto every word spoken at council meetings, considering them very seriously. As time had worn on and she had taken more control, she had relaxed and seemingly learnt which words were truth and which were mere opinion.

And she had learned whose opinion was most appropriate for the situation. Her wisdom became quickly apparent. Still, the council had noticed she favoured one voice in particular.

Lord Martin had not harboured any strong opinion on Master Tadius until he realised the Queen did. While the Prince’s attendant, the man had mostly faded into the background. One or two occasions stood out to Lord Martin but they were very much exceptions.

Once he’d seen the Queen’s affection though, he had taken more notice of the man and come to the following conclusions. 

He was older than the Queen but still a young man, neatly-dressed and well-presented at all times with no blemishes on his face. The few words he spoke were carefully considered and he did have knowledge of History and the Arts.

Lord Martin remembered well the time Master Tadius had thoroughly embarrassed Lord Andrew through a recitation of an epic love poem. Lord Martin still chuckled occasionally over the redness of the other Lord’s face. 

Lastly, the attendant showed no signs of greed or ambition: he had stood as a proxy member of the council for years and had only offered his voice a scant few times. Martin would not admit it to many, but those occasions had indeed warranted his advice. The rest of the time, the servant had not engaged in any truckling*, backroom deals or flattery of any sort with any council members, as far as Martin knew. He had simply performed his duties as directed.

And performed them well.

Indeed, though the Queen had shown him favour, Tadius had never sought to contradict any of the Lords or Ladies on the council and always showed deference when directly asked his opinion.

Perhaps it made perfect sense for the Queen to choose such a man as a lover.

“Whatever her choice in this matter,” Martin began, “as her council we must support it.”

Andrew looked appalled. “Martin! A low-born man as a lover? Official no less!”

“No law of the land or propriety forbids it.” Edoardo countered.

“And he’s always such a polite boy.” Siobhan added.

“He’s a servant!” Andrew snapped. “He’s paid to be polite!” Straightening his doublet, he muttered crossly. “Although he has been rude to me on a number of occasions!”

Used to Andrew’s fragile ego, Martin disregarded that statement.

“Lover, Andrew, not Lord Husband.” Edoardo reminded pointedly.

Martin jumped in as well. “Yes, let us not lose our heads over a minor-”

“Minor?”

“-change to the Queen’s household.”

“Indeed!” Siobhan spoke up, looking nervously between the men. “We do not even know Her Grace’s decision.”

“And if she does choose him?” Edoardo spoke again with the flap of a hand. “She is young! With plenty of years to set her House in order and meet other loves.” He added, mostly for Martin’s amusement. “Besides, everyone needs a break from this every so often.”

Ignoring the comment, Andrew asked the air dramatically. “Where’s Livia? She’d agree with me.”

Martin held back a reproachful click of his teeth.

In the meantime Siobahn answered Andrew earnestly. “Alas, Lady Livia is still touring her lands after that storm, checking for damage and the like.”

“That storm was months ago.” Andrew huffed.

True, yet no one had the guts to take Lady Livia to task. Given there were no active threats to peace, all of the council members were happy to let her do as she pleased.

In the short lull of conversation, Martin heard heavy footsteps approaching - knights and presumably the Queen.

He straightened and fiddled with the collar of his doublet in preparation, seeing the other stand to attention. An usher announced her and the Queen entered, Master Tadius a step behind.

Martin’s first thought was that the two of them looked nervous. Even in all her trappings the Queen was still a young woman, claiming a lover after a year of dedicated service to the realm and blossoming under the council’s guidance.

Lord Martin felt a pulse of fatherly affection. Edoardo was right, this could be a positive development.

“Good day.” The Queen greeted.

The council bowed and curtseyed in response. Then, a pause.

Martin caught Master Tadius’ eye by chance and sent him a slight smile. The young man blinked back, expression near-blank.

“So,” the Queen began, “you may have heard some rumours…”

The Lords and Lady looked between each other but none moved to deny it.

With a sharp breath in, Queen Ella stated calmly. “I wish to confirm that I will take Master Tadius as my official lover.”

Andrew choked.

At the same moment Siobhan clapped her hands, beaming.

“Congratulations!” Martin exclaimed, perhaps a tad too loudly so as to cover Andrew’s continued difficulty breathing.

The new lovers both looked slightly taken aback.

“My Queen.” Edoardo bowed. “This is good tidings.”

Then he stretched out a hand to Master Tadius. The poor man stared at it for a moment before realisation dawned and he almost stumbled forward to shake it.

Siobhan curtseyed to the Queen. “I am happy to hear this news.”

The Queen smiled back.

Then Martin stepped forward, saying lowly through his bow. “A wise choice.”

“Thank you, my Lord.” She replied.

Martin also shook Tadius’ hand. “Congratulations.”

“Thank you, sir.” Tadius replied, slightly dazed.

Behind Martin, Andrew was saying something to the Queen - it sounded like the words were being ground out from behind a tight jaw.

“Shall we discuss details?” Edoardo suggested, one eye on Andrew.

The group gathered around the table: the Queen at the head, Lord Martin and Lady Siobhan at her left and right; Lord Edoardo beside Martin and Andrew next to Siobhan. Master Tadius sat beside Edoardo, studiously ignoring Andrew’s gaze.

“Lord Martin, I understand there are budgetary considerations.” The Queen began.

“Yes,” Martin straightened, “an allowance will need to be agreed upon but that can be discussed between us and the Steward.” He leaned forward in order to direct the last to Tadius.

Master Tadius nodded hesitantly.

“I can inform the heralds!” Siobhan announced. “If it please, her Grace.”

The Queen inclined her head in agreement. “And I understand there is a title…” 

The council’s attention turned to Andrew. He grimaced.

“Yes, the title. Well, I will have to consult the records. This is a most…unusual situation.”

“I thought, forgive me, my Lord, the title was Royal Consort?” Siobhan ventured.

That had been Lord Martin’s understanding as well.

Andrew coughed. “Well, yes, that title is for official companions to the Crown not linked through marriage-”

“So, that’s that.” Edoardo smiled a little too broadly.

“But!” Andrew insisted. “That is for noble companions, you understand.” He splayed out his hands in a conciliatory gesture.

The Queen frowned.

“And,” Andrew added hurriedly, “it is reserved for more long-term arrangements.”

“Indeed?” The Queen asked neutrally.

“Yes!” Andrew shifted in his seat, lips twitching into an awkward smile. “So…” he steadied his expression to offer seriously, “another option would be something like Royal Paramour.”

Martin just barely managed to contain his wince. There was a collective tensing of the council members with only the Queen remaining relaxed - though she evidently noticed the reaction.

“Well…” Siobhan began, “Andrew, I am not sure…” Then her voice dried up.

Martin knew he should say something but did not know where to begin.

In the awkward pause, Tadius leant forward to tell the Queen directly.

“The Prince made extensive use of that title.”

Martin could discern no strong emotion on the man’s face but the tone held the faintest air of judgement.

Understanding blossomed over Her Grace’s features. “For several people at once?”

“At times.” Tadius confirmed. “And often for short periods.”

“Once it was used for a single night.” Edoardo muttered.

Siobhan shook her head in remembered disapproval and Martin cleared his throat.

“Perhaps another title, my lord?” He asked Andrew.

Sitting back in his chair, Andrew’s shoulders rose defensively. “It is a perfectly acceptable title for a short-term lover, setting aside the former prince-”

“Pardon, my lord,” the Queen interrupted, “you have mentioned length twice now. Would you be so kind as to define ‘long-term’?”

That pulled Andrew up short. Martin did not envy him.

“Well…I could not say an exact length of time.”

“Could you not?” The Queen probed, tone deceptively light.

Andrew cleared his throat, eyes darting as he thought. Unease mixed with amusement in Martin’s gut. Although he enjoyed the pompous Andrew hot under the collar, the Queen’s behaviour was new. It was rare for her to interrupt another’s words outside of urgent discussions and even then she did so with as much grace as possible. Ever since the first she had always exercised great patience for all of her subjects - with the only exceptions being those that had conspired against her. As Martin watched her hard stare burrow through Andrew’s composure, he asked himself if her patience was not as infinite as he had come to believe. 

“Forgive me,” Martin interceded with an outstretched hand of apology to the queen before turning to Andrew, “my lord, which other titles did previous monarchs use?”

“As I explained, ‘Royal Consort’ is for noble lovers. ‘Royal Paramour’ would do for any type of perso-”

“I do not want to use that title for Tadius, Lord Andrew.” The Queen said firmly. “It does nothing to accurately portray our relationship.”

Martin saw Siobhan’s brows lift at that statement - perhaps she was also noticing the change in the Queen’s demeanour; though Martin was more struck by the conviction. Gone were any nerves, the Queen was staking a very strong claim. Although he would have preferred the show of strength to be on another topic, Martin could not deny the gleam of pride he felt at seeing it.

Queen Ella Ashmore: stalwart and strong, sufferer to no fools.

Lord Martin made note to keep striving for Her Grace’s pleasure at all times, lest he face such a stare, and part of that apparently was offering no insult to her lover.

“What other titles?” The Queen prompted, eyes flashing.

Andrew grunted, caught between confusion and disgruntlement.

“My Queen,” Tadius leant into view, “if I may.”

She nodded at him and Martin worked to ignore Andrew’s wide, annoyed eyes.

“Regent Feruz used ‘Crown Consort’ for their low-born lover: Kasia the Fair.”

The name pinged in Martin’s memory. While not considered one of the great artists of times past, Kasia the Fair had written a few ballads which remained in popular canon. There was even one of hers which was still used at weddings in the Northern territories.

“That whole account is unreliable!” Andrew protested. “There is no substantial evidence Regent Feruz even ever met that bard, let alone took her as their lover.”

Tadius did not refute the claim, instead bowing his head.

“Regardless, that title would be acceptable, would it not?” Edoardo asked, impatience creeping into his tone.

Andrew glared at him.

“I see no wrong with it.” Siobhan added her voice, looking to Martin in question.

Aware he had no great knowledge of Royal Protocol, Martin held up his hands. “I must defer to Andrew’s superior knowledge.”

Shifting in his seat, Andrew let out a breath.

He began calmly. “Your Grace, putting aside the truth of whether ‘Crown Consort’ has historical precedence or not, the fact remains its use would open up…ambiguities.”

“Please, explain.” The Queen ordered.

Andrew licked his lips and went on. “Outside of historians, none would be familiar with it. There could be confusion over,” he indicated to Tadius with his hand, “his role.”

Martin considered. That was a decent point: there might be many who would hear ‘consort’ and immediately think of marriage. The Queen also seemed to be turning it over in her mind.

“Tadius?” She asked, eyes fixing on her lover.

Martin glanced down the table to see the young man’s furrowed brow. Tadius glanced at him before addressing the queen.

“A salient point.” He hesitated, eyes snapping to and away from Andrew lightning fast. “Perhaps a brief explanation could accompany the announcement in order to prevent any misunderstandings.”

“Makes sense.” Edoardo said, forefinger tapping on the table.

Siobhan smiled and nodded. Down the table, Andrew’s face grew darker red. Martin looked away from it to find the Queen looking at him.

“It would be wise to do so whatever the title.” He commented. “Ultimately the decision belongs to Her Grace.”

Chin up, the Queen looked around the table once more, lingering on Tadius for a beat, then turned to Siobhan.

“You will help me draft a notice to the heralds. To announce Tadius as my Crown Consort.”

“I would be honoured, your Grace.” Siobhan beamed.

“Hear, hear!” Edoardo cheered.

Martin repressed an eye roll at the man’s obvious impatience. He turned his head to see Andrew’s lips purse but the man remained silent.

“Lord Andrew.” The Queen addressed him.

He sat up, pasting neutrality onto his features.

“Lady Siobhan related some incidents relating to royal lovers participating in council meetings.”

Andrew nodded a few times. “Yes, yes, there were.” His eyes darted across to Tadius, narrowing.

“I would like to read those accounts,” the Queen went on, “to fully grasp this, as I understand it, unofficial rule?”

“Yes,” Martin cut in, wanting to keep the atmosphere as light as possible, “nothing has been written into the Royal Code so of course, Her Grace has every right to establish her own customs and unofficial council rules.”

The Queen inclined her head in acknowledgment of Martin’s words. He felt the unease of his fellow council members but when he made eye contact with all of them, none of them seemed about to disagree. Even Andrew had apparently had his fill of conflict.

“Perhaps, my Queen,” Tadius began quietly, “in this transition period, I may be excused from council meetings until such time as your Grace feels confident in shaping said unofficial rules.”

Ah, that is a good suggestion, Martin thought with the self-recrimination he had not thought of it himself. That would give all of the council members time to prepare their arguments and the Queen would also have an opportunity to adjust to meetings without her favoured advisor. 

Indeed, given the wisdom of their Queen, it was perhaps unfair to assume she would fall into the same traps as previous monarchs.

With a twist of his stomach, Martin realised just how far they were in uncharted waters.

The Queen rearranged her hands in her lap, her gaze lingering on Tadius before shifting to Edoardo.

“A fine idea.” He offered eagerly.

Siobhan and Martin echoed the sentiment and Andrew grunted an accepting noise - though Martin noted the Queen did not actually look his way.

She terminated the meeting not long after, going with Siobhan to approve the message to the heralds. Before he left, Martin snagged Tadius.

“Would the prayer hour suit?” He asked. “I am afraid I do not usually do much at that time.”

When Tadius frowned lightly, Martin clarified.

“On the morrow. To meet to discuss an allowance.”

“Oh.” Realisation dawned in the young man’s eyes. “Yes! Yes of course, my lord. I…” He faltered momentarily, then rallied. “The prayer hour would be fine. Yes.”

“Excellent!” Martin patted him on the arm. “Come to my courtier rooms and we will talk.”

“Yes.” Tadius glanced down at his arm before nodding woodenly. “I… Yes. Thank you, sir.”

Glad that Andrew had already left, Martin walked sedately to his rooms.

Well, these certainly are interesting times, he thought.

He went over the whole meeting in his head, all the better to remember the details. He wanted his letter to be as accurate as possible.

Yes, very interesting indeed.

Chapter Text

Tadius was halfway through putting on his clothes before remembering he was not needed that morning.

Queen Ella was touring three mills on the crownlands to assess the stocks of grain and meet the millers. Lord Edoardo had proposed he complete the task - as they were adjacent to his lands - but the Queen had decided to go with him and dine in his hall.

“To get to know him better.” Ella had explained to Tadius after the council meeting.

Because Tadius had not been in the meeting. They had been dining together with Tadius fighting the urge to leap up and fill her wine cup or straighten the table cloth or do anything except sit and eat with his betters.

“It’s a fine idea.” He had said uselessly.

Ella had smiled at him though.

Pulling his tunic down into place, Tadius asked himself if he should go to see her off. It had been less than a week since the Queen had officially declared him a lover and he was still settling into the role. While displays of affection from lovers were expected, both Ella and Tadius were reluctant to do more than smile at each other under watchful eyes. He could slip up to her rooms for a goodbye kiss, however.

Slip up to her rooms because he had not slept there. Despite both of them expressing a desire to hold each other at night, it had not happened as of then. Ella had not offered a reason beyond feeling tired and wanting Tadius to get a chance to become accustomed to his new rooms.

Tadius knew better than to doubt Ella had been sincere with her words but part of him questioned if she had mistaken a need for companionship with a desire for him specifically. He had agreed to give up his place on the council because he had seen how much of a need Ella had for comfort - physical and emotional. To see her shivering and haunted from the ordeal she had suffered more than a year past had humbled Tadius. Serving as her lover would allow him to do so much more than offer limp words of comfort; he could hold her as she shook apart and help her heal. More than that, he was the only one currently placed to do so. Therefore he must do it.

However, since the announcement, Ella had not seemed to want to do much more than steal a few kisses between meetings and meals.

If Tadius had not the accoutrements of an official lover to arrange and his allowance to negotiate with Lord Martin, he would have scratched his eyes out from boredom and anxiety. Had he already erred somehow?

Pushing down his frustration, Tadius nodded to himself and set off. He had moved to quarters on the floor below the royal level - becoming the only occupant - so the corridor outside was quiet. Although he had been lucky enough to have his own individual room while serving the prince, there had still been others around to lend the surroundings some life.

Higher was lonelier, the servant saying went.

Indeed, he had not slept the first night he had stayed there, tossing and turning and straining to hear something, anything. While he agreed they both needed their own space, and it made sense for his rooms to be closer to hers, part of him resented it.

On the stairs he heard footsteps from above and hurriedly retreated back to the bottom. A few moments later the Queen appeared, flanked by her guards. She was wearing a simple day tunic with gold trim, though her riding boots and cape were exquisitely detailed and she had a thin, silver tiara atop a large bun. She was a Queen who was going to exert herself.

She smiled as she saw him. “Good morrow, Tadius.”

He bowed and returned the greeting.

“Did you need something?” She asked.

“I only meant to see you off.”

“To wish me luck?” She raised a brow as she reached the landing and drew level with him.

He shook his head. “You have no need of that.”

Conscious of the knights and the Queen’s schedule, Tadius stepped out of the way.

“Accompany me to the stables?” She asked.

Trying to hide how much the request pleased him, Tadius eagerly jumped to her side.

“Of course.”

She hooked an arm through his elbow and they walked together.

“He will be more nervous.” Tadius said lowly.

Queen Ella squeezed his arm in acknowledgement of his words. They had not spoken at length the previous night - both more interested in kissing until their breath was stolen - yet Tadius had a good measure of the Queen’s worries so he had assumed.

“What are your plans for the day?” She asked as they reached the side entrance to the castle.

“I know not.” Tadius answered truthfully. “Perhaps I shall bother Miss Han for some task or other.”

Queen Ella chuckled, her eyes crinkling even more as the sun hit them. “And you accuse me of itchy feet.”

“Her Majesty is constantly busy with matters of great importance and must rest at every opportunity.” Tadius argued back. “It is hardly comparable.”

“I could not do my work without you.” The Queen reminded him, smiling, though her words were almost drowned by shouts from the forge.

You need not lie to appease me, he thought.

Outloud Tadius exaggerated a sigh for her amusement. “I suppose if you command it, I must rest.”

“Good.” She said primly, though her eyes twinkled.

Tadius smiled back - it was not possible to feel anything but glad when confronted by the light dancing in her eyes. Someone from the stables must have been keeping an eye out for the Queen because a groomsman came out with her horse.

“Quick!” Ella hissed.

Tadius frowned down at her.

She was looking at him expectantly. “Before Sir Hop-A-Lot gets here!”

Tadius barely had time to puzzle over what she meant before she rolled her eyes and leant up, one hand on his chest, to kiss his cheek.

Oh!

He put a hand over hers and turned so their lips were a breath apart. She was so beautiful in the morning light.

“Ahem!”

Tadius stiffened at the shout.

Ella smiled ruefully. “Too slow.”

She stepped back, though Tadius did not release her hand until it was held out between them and he suddenly realised how pathetic he must look. Ella turned to greet her best knight and Tadius cleared his throat, pretending his attention was caught elsewhere. 

A little while later he waved her off, watching her, Sun, Sir Hop-A-Lot and a few other knights disappear into the horizon in the direction of Lord Edoardo’s lands.

“Good morrow, Master Tadius!” A little voice cried.

Tadius nodded to Crumb. “Good morrow! How goes it?”

“Well!” Crumb squeaked. “I thought perhaps if you weren’t otherwise occupied, you could help me in my training?”

Tadius cocked his head, curious. While he had not made a fool of himself in the training session arranged by Sir Hop-A-Lot, he would hardly consider himself useful for a squire’s practice. 

Yet, he had no other plans. Why not?

That is how he found himself clumsily deflecting blows from the unnaturally strong mouse. Superior speed Tadius had expected, but Crumb’s strikes shook his arms. It was the Fae Queen’s magic he was sure, yet even after a good while he was still taken aback.

Thankfully for Tadius’ pride he had been knocked off his feet merely once and had suffered Crumb’s celebratory squeal only because he had been struggling too hard for breath to speak. By the time the midday bells rang, he was exhausted.

He gratefully exchanged a bow with the mouse - who hardly seemed out of breath - and went back up to his new rooms to wash and change. A little sit down - or even an indulgent nap - all of a sudden did not sound unappealing, he decided, and he did indeed sit down to read Teriath’s Book of Romance Poems.

He did not get very far.

…

Sometime later a knock on the chamber door jolted Tadius awake. Running his tongue over his slightly furry mouth, Tadius got up stiffly, put his book down and went to answer the door.

A knight reported. “The Ladies Alba have arrived to call on the Queen.”

Tadius blinked and asked incredulously. “And no one has informed them the Queen is absent today?”

“They did,” the knight confirmed tightly, “and then the ladies requested to meet with you instead.”

A small, confused choke escaped Tadius’ throat. “Why?”

The knight looked like he wanted to shrug. “Curiosity?”

“Curi-” Tadius abruptly remembered his new status. “Ah. I see. Well…”

“Will you see them?”

“Yes.” He answered slowly. “Have them wait in the Lower Sitting Room,” a comfortable space built for more intimate meetings than any function room. Tadius’ stomach gurgled and he added. “With tea and cakes.”

The knight nodded, expression looking a hair away from rolling his eyes, but he left quickly enough.

Tadius closed the door again and let out a long breath. He could meet with a few ladies. He’d watched the old Queen host numerous tea parties and had observed many a lady of a noble house host the Prince and attempt to make pleasant conversation. Tadius had even met the ladies of the House of Alba before - well, he’d been in their presence as the Prince had scandalised them. With a rueful twitch of his lips he wondered if they would recognise him.

Still, he felt he had a good measure of their characters - and had memorised much information on various nobles’ interests.

Pushing his shoulders back, he nodded to himself. Then he rushed to the glass to check his appearance, combing through his curls another time. He considered his green tunic - it was by no means unseeming or casual, and it was his favourite due to it being the one he’d worn as he’d crowned Ella - yet, should he change into something more…

More what?

They want to see you, not a fake-Prince Consort. 

He huffed a small sigh and straightened out his shoulders before forcing himself out of the door.

Vishanti was approaching with a tray when he arrived at the Lower Sitting Room door. Tadius smiled at her and reached out to help but the usher at the door coughed. Tadius glanced over just before his mind caught up.

The usher, Anda, asked. “Allow me to introduce you, sir?”

Tongue stuck to the roof of his mouth, Tadius merely nodded.

“Knock ‘em flat, Mr Lover Sir.” Vishanti whispered.

Tadius sent her a half-serious glare but quickly stood to attention as Anda went into the Sitting Room.

“The Crown Consort: Master Tadius.”

Fighting a flush, Tadius marched in. Lady Bernarda, the head of the household, was exactly as Tadius remembered her with watery eyes and greying hair. Her eldest daughter, Lady Dolores, was taller, settling into herself more with her chin raised with the confidence of a woman full-grown. The youngest lady, Lady Magdalena of House Yerma, was in the last years of teenagehood and so was expected to finish her fostering at the house of Alba and return home to find a match.

“Ladies.” Tadius bowed.

They curtseyed shallowly.

Lady Bernarda held out her hand and Tadius kissed it.

“My lady, I do apologise for the Queen’s absence.” Tadius said. “She is out on official business in her realm.”

“It is our fault for not calling ahead.” The lady countered graciously.

Tadius nodded and then saw out of the corner of his eye Lady Dolores stretching out her hand as well. He dutifully kissed it.

“My lady, I hope you are well.”

She smiled but her mother answered.

“Very well indeed. We have just secured her a match! Lord Juan of House Lorca!”

House Lorca was one of the oldest houses and Lord Juan was its head. Such a match was indeed an incredible win for the Lady Bernarda in terms of status. 

Still, Lady Dolores’ smile stiffened a touch. Tadius reflected that there were always more considerations for the bride and groom to be than for their parents. In any case, he congratulated her as propriety dictated and went to kiss Lady Magdalena’s hand.

“My lady, I hope you are learning well.”

“Oh yes, sir. The house of Alba is good an-”

“-and the Lady Magdalena is such a diligent student.” Lady Bernarda cut in.

Lady Magdalena bowed her head.

The group sat, accepting tea cups from Vishanti, and listened between mouthfuls as Lady Bernanda proceeded to dominate the conversation. It was actually very relaxing for Tadius because all he was required to do was respond appropriately and eat tiny cakes without getting crumbs on his tunic. While the Lady did ask the occasional question - and once or twice it veered close to an awkward topic such as ‘where did the Queen find you?’ - she did not leave long enough pauses for long answers. Indeed, his reply of ‘the castle’ to the aforementioned question had seemed sufficient.

When he had judged the ladies had taken their fill of tea and cakes, Tadius felt bored and uncomfortable enough from his Crumb-induced bruises to take a gamble.

“Lady Dolores,” he cut in just as Lady Bernada was taking in breath, “unless I am mistaken you have a keen interest in riding, do you not?”

“Oh, she’s always slipping away at all hours of the day to ride those infernal beasts!” Lady Bernada answered.

Ignoring the interjection beyond a quick nod, Tadius again addressed the younger Alba.

“I was wondering if you might want to visit the royal stables.”

Lady Dolores opened her mouth, expression eager.

Her answer was intercepted.

“Oh, that is kind, Master Tadius, but you do not want to encourage her.”

Seeing the young lady’s face fall slightly before shuffling back into a neutral expression, Tadius was unable to help himself.

“May I be candid, my lady?” He asked Lady Alba senior.

“That depends,” she said, fiddling with her fan, “I am an aged woman and I cannot withstand shocks as I used to.”

“I was merely about to confess my ignorance about horses. You see the Queen is a great lover of them and often wishes to discuss the topic.” Tadius affected his best bashful laugh. “I had hoped rather selfishly that the Lady Dolores may be able to fill in some gaps in my knowledge.”

“Oh-” Lady Bernada began.

“My lady,” Tadius cut over her, looking at Lady Dolores, “might I abuse your kind-heartedness? For half an hour, at most.”

Lady Dolores stood before her mother could protest. “Of course! The House of Alba is always happy to share their knowledge.”

Tadius also stood, though he nodded at Lady Bernada. “Your daughter is a credit to your house, my lady. 

“Well, yes.” Lady Bernarda was forced to agree.

“The Queen will be most grateful.” Tadius insisted. 

“Well, good.” The Lady Alba senior replied inanely.

“More tea will be brought.” Tadius said, finding and nodding at Vishanti who had been standing attentively in the corner. “We will not be long.”

Ignoring Bernada’s sniff and Magdalena’s hopeful expression, Tadius held out his elbow for Dolores to take and he escorted her out.

Once in the courtyard, he said lowly. “And breathe.”

The lady gave a startled laugh before quickly covering her mouth.

“Thank you, sir.” She said softly.

Biting back the comment that he was not a ‘sir’, Tadius smiled. “Why, Lady Dolores, you are helping me.”

After a moment of deliberation, Dolores added. “My dear mother is a character.”

“More of a character lately?” Tadius guessed.

“Oh yes.”

“Well, she is on the point of waving you off.” Tadius observed.

Lady Dolores swallowed and said nothing.

Aware neither of them were in a position to change her circumstances, Tadius said. “From what I hear, Lord Juan is a fine man.”

A decade older than Dolores and widowed the year before but by all accounts kind and honorable. And without any heirs. If his heart had recovered from sorrow then it could be all hers.

“Yes.” Lady Dolores agreed. “He is a good, strong leader of his house. A fine match.”

Although she spoke with conviction, Tadius had the feeling those words were not her own.

“Will you bring many staff with you?” Tadius asked.

“No, I will not bring any.”

Tadius was surprised enough to stop walking. He looked at Dolores’ lightly concerned face and said honestly. “I cannot imagine how a reasonable request could be denied.”

“He already has enough servants.” Lady Dolores replied, with a hint of confusion.

“Even one or two friendly faces can make a world of difference in a new place.” Tadius explained, despite feeling a growing doubt she knew any of her maids well enough to consider them allies. “Perhaps a spirited stable boy to debate the merits of different…” he drew a blank and finished lamely, “...stirrups.”

Dolores blinked. “I do not debate stable boys.”

“No? Well, then ignore my foolishness.” Tadius said quickly, adjusting his estimation of the lady. “Come, the stables are this way.”

They went down the path to the stables and after a moment of quiet, the Lady said. “I am bringing my favourite horses. The Lord has already promised I can ride on the days I need not accompany him.”

“That sounds agreeable.” Tadius remarked.

“Yes, I am very lucky.” Her voice was warmer, so Tadius was more inclined to believe the sentiment.

At the stables, Lady Dolores marvelled at the purebred horses, including one from the Golden Hold. She dutifully explained the advantages and disadvantages of each breed along with her personal preferences in terms of gait. Tadius pretended to be interested but the lady was more discerning than her mother because she thanked him again with a knowing smile.

Seeing a stable boy wave, Tadius smiled at the lady, about to escort her to the Alba carriage when an idea struck him.

“My lady, the Crown of course will send a betrothal chest but as you are here, perhaps you might like to take a small gift with you now?”

“Oh?” Her tone was more or less measured but her eyes sparkled.

Tadius led her to the equipment room, hoping she would take the initiative as he had little idea of what to offer. While the lady looked over the assorted bits, Tadius felt a presence behind them. 

“Perhaps the old King’s riding crop?” The stable boy from earlier suggested, slipping in and taking it down from its place. “The handle is Dragon Hide.”

A perfect gift: unique enough to be valuable, practical but not actually used much in the castle or by the queen.

As the lady accepted the crop, Tadius winked at the boy. He received a crooked grin back and tried to remember the boy's name. A quick, sharp-mind was an asset in any role and perhaps there was some other position than ‘stable boy’ that mind could do.

“I couldn’t!” Dolores exclaimed, fingers running over the handle.

“Please,” Tadius insisted, “take it and show your betrothed.”

That would be a message that the crown approved of their match and of the lady’s interest in riding.

Lady Dolores clutched the crop to her chest and curtseyed deeply. “Thank you, Master Tadius.”

He smiled. “Come, let us return you to your poor mother.”

Lady Bernarda was already inside their carriage but Lady Magdalena stood at the foot of it, curiosity lighting up her face as she saw them approaching. Tadius caught sight of Dolores making a small hand gesture to her friend and imagined the hushed conversation they would likely have later.

Lady Bernarda leant out of the carriage window. “We thank you for the hospitality.”

Tadius inclined his head. “The royal doors are always open to the House Alba, my lady.”

She nodded and ducked back into the carriage. Tadius bowed at the younger ladies.

“Good luck, my lady.” He said to Dolores.

She smiled and curtseyed which was echoed by Lady Magdalena. He watched the carriage depart and then looked at the sky with a long breath out. 

Not a disaster but…he pushed away concerns of what whispers about him would start to circulate. It was too late to close the barn door.

Rain clouds approached from the horizon. He had not seen Ella’s horse in the stables so figured she was still being entertained by Lord Edoardo. She would be exhausted by the time she got back and possibly wet if the rain did fall.

Filled with new purpose, Tadius marched to the kitchens and found Rachel.

“Are any of the porters around? I might need help drawing the Queen a bath.”

“For before or after you greet her?” Rachel asked, tongue-in-cheek.

Tadius held back a sigh. “You’re as uncouth as Vishanti.”

“Just as uncouth?” Rachel asked thoughtfully. “Well then, I must put more effort into my quips.”

“Will you be of use or not?” Tadius asked in exasperation.

Rachel smirked but pointed him to where Baby James was stacking clean chamber pots for redistribution around the guest rooms. The burly teenager was happy to help Tadius move the royal bathtub to the Queen’s chambers; with the added bonus that the boy had absolutely no interest in Tadius’ new position. While he had expected jokes, jealousy and disapproval, that did not mean he felt no discomfort from them.

He just thanked the gods Sir Hop seemed to have decided to avoid looking at him whenever their paths accidentally crossed and nothing worse.

Tadius put a fresh linen lining over the oak tub as Baby James went to fetch the first pails of hot water. There was a selection of soaps but the lavender one seemed to be the preferred option (heavily used as it was) so Tadius brought that one over. Then he stood back and searched his memory: what else had the Prince liked when bathing?

A companion was the most requested ‘item’ - a request which Tadius simply ignored most times - but sometimes the Prince had ordered the castle bard to sing. This had been despite the tense relationship between the two. Indeed, the Old Bard had been forced to walk a thin line in their performances between practised enough to be enjoyable but not so skilled as to activate the Prince’s jealousy. 

Yet after the Prince had died, the bard had requested leave and had not returned. There could have been many reasons for such an event but Tadius liked to think they had held a soft spot for the spoiled but talented prince. The pair had argued a plenty over techniques and which historical bard was the superior wordsmith though oftentimes they had both been wearing smiles.

The new bard, Butsaya, was a softly spoken woman who favoured the harp.

Tadius thought. Ella had never asked for music accompaniment to her bathing before, but that could be due to reluctance to inconvenience anyone as opposed to disinterest. Indeed, she did not request much for herself at all.

While contracted to perform at events in the castle, the Bard did do other work; usually she was found teaching children in the nearby villages or playing in a square for weary workers to rest and listen awhile. Tadius went out to the balcony to check the sundial. The line was very faint due to the clouds, but it did show the hour. 

Tadius returned to the Queen’s chambers in time to help Baby James empty the pails into the tub.

“You do not happen to know Butsaya the Bard’s schedule, do you?”

The teen smiled and shrugged as he picked up the pails to carry out. Tadius tapped his finger against the rim of the tub. It was far from necessary, hell, it might even be in vain to attempt to locate the bard in time to perform for the Queen. 

Yet there was a gnawing inside of him that insisted he do more…

Tea! The Queen would probably want some soothing tea. He turned to the door to exit but Sir Siyung entered.

“Oh, good day!” The knight greeted. “Just checking the rooms.”

“She’s back?” Tadius asked, lips pulling up into a smile on their own accord.

Sir Siyung nodded and went to look through the bed chamber and privy. Tadius attempted to keep from fidgeting as the knight did so - his eyes darting around for any last minute adjustments he could make. Sir Siyung gave another nod as he departed. Too late.

Tadius straightened his tunic and for some reason held his breath as he waited for his Queen- his lover- to enter.

Chapter Text

Queen Ella was tired.

It had been a fruitful day, and dining with Lord Edoardo had not been as awkward as she had feared, yet the riding had caused her aches, her menstrual cramps had not helped matters and meeting so many new people had paradoxically brought up old memories so she was almost ready to retire for the evening.

Especially as that meant she would soon be another day closer to being able to lay with Tadius again.

Sir Siyung came out of her rooms with an uncharacteristically wide smile. “Have a good evening, your Grace.”

Ella returned the smile and entered. The reason for his words became immediately apparent as she saw Tadius standing next to the bathtub.

“How was it?” He asked, shifting a little on his feet.

Ella swallowed. On another day a hot bath would have been irresistible but the discomfort of Ella’s loins doused her enthusiasm for the idea.

“Fine.” She said.

But it was too late, observant Tadius had noted her hesitation.

“Indeed? Well,” he looked down at the bath, “perhaps you could use a soak then? I wondered if it would rain but at least you have been spared that.”

Still not inured to Tadius babbling nervously, Ella couldn’t help but smile. She did not know how to reject his offer without saddening him. Luckily, Sun had entered behind her, taken in the scene and sprang to her Queen’s aide.

“She had a bath last week.”

Tadius looked at the maid, immediately understanding her words were important, if not exactly why.

“Oh.” He looked back at the tub.

The door widened as James came in with two pails of hot water.

“Oh.” Tadius said again, mouth opening wider to say something.

“Thank you, James.” Ella said first, not wanting anyone to tell the young man to take the pails away again.

The teen grinned and emptied them into the tub. Ella moved out of the way and stepped close to Tadius, deliberately bumping their shoulders. He sent her an apologetic look which moved her to take his closest hand and squeeze. When James bowed and left, Sun added.

“Mayhaps her Grace will have another next week.”

After a beat, comprehension dawned on Tadius’ face.

“Oh! Of course. Forget I sugg-”

“No. I won’t. It was sweet.” Ella said, focusing on his thoughtfulness and not Sun’s meddling. 

She would need to remind her of Ella’s expectations of appropriacy.

“Well,” Tadius said sheepishly, “one hopes next time it will be sweet and useful.”

Ella smiled.

“Do you have all you need?” He asked, then frowned a little. “Or, no, perhaps you prefer I stay out of it?”

Wanting to change her rag, Ella patted his arm. “You need not concern yourself with such things.”

He nodded. “If you wish.” Then he hesitated for a breath, before saying lightly. “Though I am no stranger to…” He smiled awkwardly.

“Poor Tadius has suffered maid-talk for many a year.” Sun filled in the gap.

Ella considered Rachel, Vishanti and some of the other plainly-spoken female castle staff then asked herself why she was surprised Tadius had been exposed to women’s matters. That knowledge settled her a little and she had an idea.

“Why don’t you take it?”

“Hm?”

“The bath.”

Tadius waved a hand. “Oh, I couldn't.”

“Did you rest today as I commanded?”

Tadius hesitated.

“Tadius!”

“Of a sorts!” He protested.

Ella looked to Sun.

Her maid’s eyes sparkled as she reported. “I heard he sparred with Squire Crumb and met with the ladies Alba.”

Ella frowned lightly.

Tadius coughed. “I also managed to read some of a book!”

Abruptly at her limit, Ella took control. “Into the bath with you.”

Tadius pressed his lips together but Ella did not stay to hear any protests. Sun went with her to the privy, discreetly handing her a fresh rag before leaving her to it. Ella sighed as she sat, wiggling her aching feet. Once refreshed, she washed her hands in the basin and opened the door to the rooms, feeling better.

She heard bickering.

“It’s too hot!”

“No, it is not. Just get in!”

“You said you wouldn’t look!”

“I’m not looking at you. I am clearing these. Stop stalling, man.”

Ella hung back out of sight until she heard splashing and cursing. She rounded the corner to see Tadius sitting in the bath with a spectacularly red face. He saw her and tried for a small wave but he could not quite keep from grimacing. Sun began collecting his clothes and he choked, reaching out as if to take them.

“Hold-”

“Relax!” Ella interrupted, going over to sit on the edge of the tub. “I hope you will not ignore all of my commands.”

Sighing, Tadius sat back again. Then his expression smoothed out into pleasant surprise.

“Oh!”

Ella’s smile widened as he leant his head back, eyes closing.

“Alright.” He murmured. “I suppose I have no choice but to obey.”

As his features relaxed, Ella noted that he looked younger. Chest filling with affection, Ella leaned down and kissed his forehead.

Eyes sliding open again, Tadius asked. “How are you?”

Ella considered and answered honestly. “Sad.”

She settled back on the rim of the tub and Tadius put a hand over hers. It was wet but she did not care, turning her hand over to grasp his. He did not ask for an explanation, merely looking at her face.

Sun coughed delicately and Ella glanced over.

“Would there be anything else, your Grace?” Her maid asked softly.

Ella shook her head and Sun curtseyed before leaving.

Looking back to Tadius, Ella took in a breath and asked. “Have you truly never taken a hot bath before?”

Allowing the subject change, Tadius shrugged. “Not for many years.” He sunk a bit lower. “Though now I see what a fool I’ve been for not making the effort.”

“Too busy?” She asked, running her thumb over the back of his hand.

He hummed. “I had a wash basin in my chamber which sufficed.”

Ella made a vague acknowledging sound as she examined his hand in more detail, tracing over the lines on his palm and rubbing the pads of his fingertips. He let her investigation continue a while afore he said gently.

“You must be tired.”

She was. Allowing her shoulders to slump, she sighed. Changing and preparation for bed sounded like too much effort.

“And yet I have no desire to move.” She smiled down at him. “Tell me about your day?”

Though she noted his careful gaze on her, he obliged, detailing his shameful efforts to spar with Crumb and surprise that the ladies Alba wanted to meet with him specifically.

“Curiosity?” Ella asked.

“It seems so. Though I am lucky Lady Bernarda does not allow for awkward pauses.”

Ella searched her memory. “I do not know if I have ever met her.”

Tadius smirked. “Then I would wager not - you would remember. I assure you.”

“But you charmed her.” Ella guessed.

Tadius’ brow wrinkled. “I do not believe so. Indeed, I was not trying to in any case.”

Sudden curiosity struck Ella - she had no concept of how Tadius would behave as a host. Of course he was perfectly attentive and anticipatory as a servant but there were other aspects and skills to hosting, such as conversation, that servants were not expected to master.

Ella promised herself to find someone else to ask how the meeting went to counterbalance Tadius’ tinge of self-deprecation.

“Lady Dolores enjoyed touring the stables.” Tadius said.

Ella hummed encouragingly.

“As long as Lord Juan allows her to ride and talk about riding they should have a fruitful marriage.”

Having no opinion on the matter Ella hummed again. Then she blinked.

Afore she could articulate her thought, however, Tadius said.

“I gifted her the Old King’s riding crop on the Crown’s behalf. I do hope you hadn’t planned to use it or gift it elsewhere. It’s no substitute for a betrothal chest of course but as their announcement had been conveyed in an informal meeting I felt it would suffice for the moment.”

Ella slouched back down, smiling. She looked down and found her thumb pressing against his signet ring. In that moment she realized she did not know how he had acquired it.

Tadius explained. “Lord Martin let me keep it. For now.”

Ella tilted her head in confusion. 

He saw it and sat up, voice tight. “Do you think I should return it?”

“No.” Ella answered, responding instinctively to his worry. 

Tadius slumped down again in relief. Odd. Ella she looked at the ring again to examine the design: a trio of birds encircled by metal chain links. The middle one seemed in mid-flight, with the outer birds facing away from each other - wings closed.

Where had she seen it before?

Gods, she was tired.

Leaving the mystery for later, she said tiredly. “I should let you wash.” 

Looking around and spotting the lavender soap in the dish, Ella handed it over. He thanked her and she stood.

“Ella.” He said.

She looked down and was confused to see him looking apprehensive.

“When I am clean, would you permit me to hold you awhile?”

Ella almost swayed with how much she wanted that.

“Clean and dry, sir.” She managed to quip.

His soft chuckle almost crumpled her composure. With a quick nod she went to change into her night clothes. While her cotton shift sufficed for sleeping in, she had been gifted with a silk shift she was particularly taken to.

As it was the last day or so of her time, she decided to risk wearing it.

She let down her hair from the bun, teasing out her curls with her fingers: too tired to brush it properly. She was tucking her hair into her bonnet when Tadius coughed in the doorway.

Ella glanced over to see him clad only in a towel tied around the waist. His hair was still damp, one wet curl hanging over his eye, and his cheeks were pink. Just above the towel Ella could see the top of a bruise on his hip.

“It seems Sun took my clothes with her.”

Having recovered a little energy and amused by his shyness, Ella arched a brow. “Yes, she did. On my orders.” She tilted her head as she looked him up and down. “So I can keep you like this.”

Tadius’ eyes widened and his breath caught. He recovered quickly, ducking his head and chuckling, so Ella could not be sure if his reaction had been fear or lust. Or both. She filed the moment away for another time.

“My mistress is cruel today.” Tadius jested, voice level.

Ella took in his subtle squirming another beat more before breaking and nodding to a trunk in the corner.

“Slander! Your mistress has thoughtfully prepared for this very eventuality.”

Immediately seeing her meaning, Tadius went over and opened the chest. He took a moment to scan the contents before pulling out a tunic. Holding it in his hands, he glanced questioningly at Ella. There was something fragile in his expression.

Had her own emotions been more balanced she would have sought to ease whatever troubled him. As it was, she could only nod.

“I was mistaken. Truly she is generous.” He said slowly, looking back down at the trunk.

“There should be small clothes there and tunics for sleeping.” Ella said.

She had ordered the seamstress to make clothes that were not too ostentatious but still finely-made: small accents of silver thread on the day clothes, robust leather boots, a fur-lined cape and clothes fit for a Ball.

Ella hauled herself over to the bed and got in as Tadius threw on small clothes and a tunic. He slipped in beside her and she snuggled up to him. He wrapped his arms around her and she wiggled further until she was lying on top of him.

For a long moment the two of them just breathed. Then tears welled in Ella’s eyes and a lump formed in her throat. She thought to explain how Lord Edoardo introducing his daughters to Ella after dinner had felt like an obvious push for her to consider them for Ladies-in-waiting, how even as they were completely unlike Justine and Lucy, Ella had still thought of them; how the miller and his wife at the last mill had resembled her parents - or at least as she remembered them - how as they had rode back, she had fought the urge to go to Ashmore House because there would have been nothing to gain from going there.

But all she whimpered was: “I miss them! So much.”

Tadius’ grip on her tightened. “I know. I’m so sorry.”

Ella cried freely, squeezing Tadius’ forearm and making no effort to control her breathing. Tadius did not shush her, just rubbed up and down her arm soothingly and occasionally pressed a kiss to the top of her head.

After an age, she ran out of tears. Even more exhausted and also snotty, Ella made to sit up. Tadius let her but held out a handkerchief. Not questioning where he pulled it out from, Ella accepted, wiped her face and blew her nose.

“Forgive me.” Ella sighed heavily.

Sitting up too, Tadius leaned in. “No,” he kissed one not-quite-dry tear track, “there is nothing to forgive.”

Ella had no energy to respond.

Seeing that, Tadius cupped her cheek. “Do you think you will be able to sleep?”

Ella nodded and let him maneuver her down to lie on her side facing him. He went to snuff out the candles in the lanterns and returned to lie beside her. Ella managed a small shift forward but more or less let him embrace her again. 

“Rest now.” Tadius whispered.

In the dark, warm and exhausted and safe, Ella slept.

…

Physician Yinko closed the door to her workroom behind Sun and looked at the members of the secret meeting. Herself, Miss Sun and Squire Crumb had gathered to discuss the relationship between their Queen and her new official lover. Crumb was biting his lip and Sun looked as unbothered as always, though Yinko knew that to be a mask. The maid had been highly resistant to the idea of discussing her mistress’ personal life - especially behind her back - and it had taken all of Yinko’s logical reasoning and Crumb’s wide eyes to convince her to hear them out.

“Now, we know how Master Tadius feels for the Queen but what we must discern is how she feels for him.”

“They’re getting married, aren’t they?” Crumb asked before Sun could speak.

Yinko blinked. She had known the mouse was invested in the relationship but had obviously underestimated his naivety. 

“Well, we’re not sure.”

“But they kissed! And now he’s her lover.” The mouse looked between the women.

Yinko exchanged a glance with Sun who raised her eyebrow.

“So, he’s going to propose? And fight Sir Hop-A-Lot?” Crumb continued, not sounding sure.

“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.” Yinko said hurriedly.

“Why not?”

“Human relationships are more complicated than mouse ones.” Sun said.

Crumb’s ears swivelled as he considered that.

Yinko added. “And the Queen has certain expectations of her. People believe she should marry a powerful noble or another royal which is why-”

“But she loves Tadius!”

“Do you know that?” Yinko asked.

Crumb looked up at her. “I feel it.”

“It’s none of our business how either of them feel.” Sun reminded them.

“If we could help-”

“That is not our place.” Sun cut in, brow wrinkled. “And we might end up doing more harm than good.”

“You have known Tadius the longest of any of us.” Yinko pushed. “In an ideal world he would make a great consort for the Queen, would he not?”

“We do not live in an ideal world.”

Yinko took that to mean ‘yes’, if pessimistically.

“And,” Sun continued before Yinko could capitalize on her answer, “interfering might make things more difficult for them. Especially Tadius.”

“Why?” Crumb asked.

“He is not disliked exactly by the courtiers, some even consider him to be a useful advisor, yet none of them would support the idea of him as Prince Consort.”

“He has been performing the role already-”

“Entertaining ladies from lesser houses is hardly ‘performing the role already’.” Sun countered. “In any case, the situation is too new for anyone to be sure how it will look when it settles. If it continues, if the Queen does not choose more nobles for her inner circle…” Sun shook her head.

Crumb harrumphed. “Why is blood so important?”

Yinko sighed instead of answering.

“Any interference on our part could reflect poorly on him,” Sun continued, “implying he is actively preparing to put his name forward when he is not.” her tone hardened. “He knows his place, as should we.”

Yinko’s lips pursed at the rebuke but she could not argue against the maid’s logic.

Instead she inclined her head.

“I think Sir Hop wants to fight him.” Crumb said quietly.

“He would not risk injuring one of the Queen’s household.” Yinko said, though the mouse’s expression cast some doubt on her assertion.

“If he thought they had dishonoured her… It’s my fault.” Crumb confessed. “I suggested the castle staff train with swords, so Master Tadius could learn to fight!”

Yinko’s heart squeezed at the mouse’s guilty eyes. She stroked between his ears. “I am sure the frog knight will not attack him without warning and the Queen will intercede.”

Crumb did not look much comforted but did not contradict her words.

Yinko held back a sigh. “So we do nothing.”

For now , she added in her head.

Watching the other two leave, Yinko reflected that while not the result she’d been hoping for, the meeting had offered her more information and perspectives. She would not stop supporting the Queen where she could and if she saw an opportunity, well, she would be ready.

Chapter Text

Standing at the window of the archive room, Lord Andrew checked the sun’s location in the sky. It was still early so entirely possible the boy wasn’t awake yet. 

Pressing his left thumb against the signet ring on his right index finger, the Lord let out a sigh. He had been just as surprised as everyone else when Lord Karl’s duplicitous scheme had been revealed - perhaps more so as he’d known the man since he’d been a boy. 

What had the idiot been thinking? Risking his whole line for a stunt like that? Bad enough he’d doomed himself…

Andrew’s heart had clenched as he’d watched the man fall under the frog knight’s sword. The smell of blood had reached the crowd even from across the clearing and Andrew had forced himself to swallow his nausea even as he’d asked himself how he was going to relate the news to his Lady. How he was going to beg the Queen for mercy over the remaining Silverhead children if it came to that.

In his dreams, he could still hear little Karl laughing as he begged Andrew to toss him higher into the air.

But that had been a different time and as his Lady had commented the last time he had seen her, they must move forward. If she had an idea of where her son's reckless ambition had originated, she had not shared it with her vassal.

Still, while it was understandable for the Queen to eschew any more suitors for a while, the adoption of a lowborn lover had been an extreme reaction in Andrew’s opinion.

He could have told anyone who wanted to know that it was a mistake, that the boy was not at all suited for the role, but no! No one had wanted to know.

When first he had heard of the meeting - that none on the council had approved! - Andrew had been smug to have been proven right. The boy could not conduct himself to the same level as nobles did and there was evidence of it plain as day. Then it occurred to him that as Master of Protocols, it was his responsibility to mitigate and avoid any scandals caused by lack of adherence to the Court Code. Thus, he decided to make a token effort with the boy, to be able to defend himself should more disasters occur.

A sharp rapping on the door jolted him from his thoughts.

Andrew turned towards the door and straightened, letting out a short breath. 

He was a Lord, almost thirty years senior and the expert in the field of discussion. 

He was in complete control.

“Enter!”

Master Tadius came in, bowing. “My lord.”

He did not appear harried or rushed and his eyes were as alert as always. Well, it would have been easier if the boy was not so awake but needs must.

Andrew clasped his hands behind his back, walked over to the desk and began without any preamble. “Two days past you met with the Ladies Alba while the Queen was abroad.” 

The boy straightened even more, turning to face the lord as he walked. “I did.”

Having rehearsed the line in his head, Andrew drawled faux-casually. “I had assumed you were familiar with the Court Code of Conduct.”

The boy’s eyelids flickered and his mouth pursed. Yet the smarmy reply did not come. Instead his shoulders drooped.

“Forgive me, my lord.” He began quietly. “I do not know how I erred.”

Andrew frowned, confused. While an arrogant gnat, the boy had proven himself knowledgeable - much to Andrew’s annoyance. Was he really claiming ignorance?

“You thought it was appropriate to take Lady Dolores away from her mother without anyone else to chaperone?” Andrew asked.

The boy had the audacity to look surprised. “I did not…I have led nobles to different places in the castle many times.”

Andrew blinked. What the…? Oh.

“As a servant.” He grit out his next words. “You are not so any longer.” Relaxing his jaw he managed to continue. “As part of the court you must obey our rules.”

The boy nodded, his gaze in the middle distance. “Yes, I understand.” Then he looked at Andrew, saying simply. “Thank you, my Lord. For reminding me.”

Has he been hit over the head? Andrew wondered. 

Where was the smirking servant who’d been handed a position for which Andrew had slaved away for years, and been so bloody smug too; unable to even pretend to respect the council members whilst not speaking a word. Yes, Andrew had seen the flashes of judgement across the boy’s features as he listened to his betters make important decisions. 

Where was the boy who had wormed his way to first lover of the new Queen simply by being in the right place and the right time? He certainly had no relevant or attractive qualities that Andrew could see. Especially none that outshone the many nobles who’d put forward their names!

The Lord had carefully considered where the conversation might lead and yet had not prepared for humility.

“Well,” he said, flatfooted, “it is my responsibility to ensure proper etiquette is followed.”

Tadius nodded seriously. “It was shortsighted of me not to have anticipated this aspect of the role. I should have,” he let out a breath and changed his mind. “I will study all the codes again.”

“Chaus’ Guide would probably suffice.” Andrew suggested without thinking - as he had sworn to never again read the Code codex from cover to cover.

Life was too short.

Tadius nodded. “Thank you, sir. An excellent suggestion.”

Lips pursing, Andrew tried to decide if he had heard any sarcasm in the comment. He wasn’t entirely sure.

“Was there anything else lacking in my reception of the House of Alba?” Tadius asked.

If Andrew did not know better, he would have said the question was in earnest.

Earlier Andrew had been annoyed that he had only ferreted out one error - as he had not been able to speak directly to the ladies, he had questioned the staff and discovered it - but in the face of the boy’s vulnerability he was not too reluctant to respond honestly.

"Not that I am aware.”

If he took any comfort from the response, Tadius did not show it. He bowed. 

“Thank you again, my lord.”

Andrew nodded. Then considered if he was being presented with an opportunity.

“Do you have a copy?” He asked.

Evidently remembering the previously mentioned book, Tadius replied quickly. “I do, sir.”

“And you have memorised the entire makeup of the Court.”

“Yes, sir.”

Andrew sat in the chair and waved a hand in Tadius’ direction. “So, who will visit next?”

Tadius frowned lightly as he asked. “You mean, which house, my Lord?”

Folding his hands across his stomach, Andrew nodded.

Tadius thought before saying slowly. “Salsbury and Dalarna are the closest lesser houses geographically, though neither have that close a relationship with Alba.” His brow furrowed for a moment. “Perhaps Eschen?”

Not a bad guess.

“Reasoning?” Andrew asked, echoing his old protocol master.

The answer was swift and well-reasoned. “Their house is within two days' travel to the castle, Lord Josef is a longtime friend of Lady Bernarda and Lady Christina has not visited the castle since the Queen’s coronation.”

Added to that Lady Christina is a huge busybody no one particularly cared for, Andrew added in his mind. He had known the boy was knowledgeable and for the first time, Andrew was glad of that fact. There was a kernel of hope in his chest: perhaps avoiding disaster was possible. At least in the short-term.

Tilting back in his chair, Andrew considered. “I would not be so quick to discount Dalarna but otherwise your reasoning is sound.” 

Tadius’ chin lifted a little higher and for the first time, Andrew did not see arrogance on his face.

“Good.” Andrew tapped the desk. “Study up. I will be residing in the castle for the foreseeable future so come back in a few days for a review.”

That would be enough time to think of some difficult and obscure questions.

Tadius bowed. “I cannot thank you enough, sir.”

Andrew splayed out a hand magnanimously. “Tis all for the Queen, is it not?”

Tadius nodded and left when Andrew dismissed him.

As long as Andrew served on the council, all his efforts were centred around advising the Queen and ensuring his Lady’s interests were served. If that included schooling a rightly humbled boy, then, well, Andrew would do his duty.

He smiled and patted himself on the shoulder.

It was the right thing to do, after all.

…

There was a new energy in the air as Tadius approached the training yards.

Finally Sir Hop-A-Lot had given in and arranged a training session for the women of the castle. Those who had decided to take up the offer were excited and others were curious. Sir Hop had shooed the crowd away at the beginning of the session but it had been almost an hour and Tadius had an excuse for his presence up his sleeve, if he were challenged.

In addition to his curiosity over the queen’s progress, he needed a walk to exercise his stiff limbs and rest his tired eyes and cramped fingers. Revising the code and writing detailed plans for how to handle each house that might visit had taken its toll on his body and mind. While ashamed to have been chastised by Lord Andrew of all people, in the end Tadius was incredibly grateful for the instruction. He had not realised the extent his new role had changed how he was expected to behave and there was only so far that books could guide one.

The fact that the Lord had let pass several opportunities to tear Tadius’ composure to shreds was incredible in itself. Tadius had left the archive room in almost a daze; incredulous to realise he might need the Lord’s assistance in the near future and said Lord actually might provide it without argument.

There would be condescension, of course, but still.

What other surprises did the role have for him?

Turning the corner, he slowed down to take in the sight: maids, cooks, gardeners and the Queen were ducking and swiping at each other with wooden daggers. Sir Hop-A-Lot was marching up and down offering advice and encouragement, obviously keeping a close eye on…

Tadius’ eyes were instantly drawn to Ella. She was dressed in a simple tunic that was tied at one side to lift the hem a few inches higher; her hair was braided and tied back in a long plait that swung behind her. As Tadius watched she bent to dodge Rachel’s thrust forward and brought the tip of her practice dagger to the maid’s throat. Rachel pouted but raised her hands in defeat.

Tadius stepped up beside Sir Siyung, who was also watching.

“How are they faring?”

The knight answered wryly. “Terrifyingly well.” Then he glanced at Tadius. “I blame you.”

“Me?”

“If you had not encouraged them with that powder-”

Temper flaring, Tadius hit back. “And if you and your fellow knights had taken complaints about him seriously-”

Sir Siyung held his hands up in surrender. “I was only jesting.”

Tadius looked over the yard and spotted Vishanti. She was tentatively trading blows with one of the cooks.

“He’s gone now.” The knight said.

“Yet the fear remains.” Tadius commented absently.

He had been lucky enough to have only suffered one blow to the face in all his years of service to the crown - a slap really - from the old King when the man had still the strength to leave his bed. His subsequent weakening had not dislodged the apprehension from Tadius’ heart when in the man’s presence and even the sight of a tall, thickly-built noble approaching could dry out the servant’s throat.

Tadius could not imagine suffering the attentions of a lustful knight and then continuing living and working in a whole castle of them.

“She’s improved.” Sir Siyung said after a while.

“Change partners!” Sir Hop ordered over the hubbub. 

The women began to mingle, yet Tadius noticed none seemed eager to spar with the Queen. She did not seem surprised by this, her expression pinched. Though she smiled, expression lightening, when she saw Tadius on the side.

Sir Hop led a cook over to Ella and instructed her to be very careful not to hit the queen.

Ella frowned and pointed out. “A true assailant would be trying very hard to hit me.”

Unable to argue against that, Sir Hop instead said. “This is just practice, my lady.”

“Practice for a real attack.” Ella countered.

Ignoring her knight’s splutter she looked over to Tadius and Sir Siyung. “Sirs? You concur with me, do you not?”

Suppressing a smile Tadius nodded and sensed the knight doing the same. Then one of the knight’s hands landed on Tadius’ shoulder. He glanced up and started, his stomach dropping as the knight called.

“Perhaps Master Tadius will make a good attacker!”

The Prince’s laughter echoed in Tadius’ head.

Come on, scaredy cat! Fight me!

In real life the Queen raised an eyebrow and her eyes made an exaggerated sweep of Tadius. Some of the women giggled and nudged each other. Tadius was not sure what expression hung on his face but he held up his hands in protest.

“Oh, I couldn’t-”

“That is out of the question!” Sir Hop-A-Lot cried.

“I’ll spar with you, my Queen!” Crumb popped up, drawing a practice sword.

“A fine idea!” Tadius choked out, rolling his shoulder to dislodge the knight’s heavy hand.

The Queen bowed to Crumb and everyone turned back to their own partners. Still unsettled, Tadius slipped away; his shoulder aching. 

Looking for a quiet corner, he ducked behind the Knight’s Hall. It no longer smelt faintly of vomit as Sir Hop did not tolerate knights imbibing too much wine every night but the strategically placed bush used for the discharge of any number of other bodily functions still remained sickly-looking. 

Covering his face with his hands, Tadius took in a deep breath.

Calm down, you fool! Do not let the ghosts of past folly haunt you so!

Yet he could not take his own advice. The sting of the blade slashed across his chest once more. With a pathetic whimper, he clutched his right shoulder and squeezed his eyes shut. So lost was he in half-forgotten pain that he failed to hear the clank of armour until the knight was almost upon him. Tadius’ eyes popped open and he saw Sir Siyung before him - face creased.

Flushing, Tadius straightened.

“Apologies.” The knight said. “I had forgotten that.”

Tadius looked away, unwilling to discuss it. He let out a short breath instead and shook his head once.

“Do you require anything?” Sir Siyung had a reputation for being a soft touch for good reason.

“No. Thank you.”

“Alright.”

Then Tadius was alone again. Queen Ella had suffered worse, Tadius told himself. He had realised the extent of the Troll Mother’s crimes through logical reasoning and clues dropped by Ella and her animal companions: troll skin suits, a slipper made for one pair of feet and a being capable of great cruelty and magic.

Tadius had not eaten all day on the day he had come to that grim conclusion. While the Queen had not complained of pain in her legs, and Tadius had observed her closely just in case, she could not have put that horror behind her.

That is why you are her lover now, Tadius told himself, so you can help her work through all the pain those monsters inflicted.

Which you cannot do if you are moping yourself.

Squaring his shoulders, Tadius straightened his tunic and fixed his expression: ready to face the world.

…

Ella was too tired from the training to think much about Rachel’s suggestion she join the other women in the servant’s baths. Logistically it made sense as it was so close to the practice yards, also it was only late afternoon so most of the women would be hurrying along to complete their tasks before the evening meal. Thus Ella sent word to Sun to bring a change of clothes down. 

While they stripped and washed, the women’s chatter reminded Ella again of the Grizzwald girls. How they had splashed water at each other while bathing in the evenings and kept each other up at night with giggles, japes and songs. How she missed the camaraderie!

None of the women minded their manners with her, following Rachel’s example, which Ella was thankful for. Instead they were all focused on washing and changing with a bit of gossip floating around but nothing too interesting. For a few minutes she felt like just a woman.

That changed a little as she redressed.

Rachel and Vishanti looked back at Ella as they passed through the bathhouse door with big grins on their faces. The reason became apparent as Ella saw Tadius waiting outside.

He bounced on his toes as he saw her.

“Excuse me, fierce warrior! Have you seen the Queen?” He japed.

Just refraining from rolling her eyes, Ella drew level and then fell into step with him as they headed for the castle proper - Sir Siyung behind.

“I was serious in my admiration for your skill.” Tadius said lowly.

Glowing a little at the praise, Ella smiled and returned. “Well, any skill I possess is secondary to that of my protectors.”

“Of course.” Tadius agreed, humour sprinkled in his tone.

Ella glanced back at Sir Siyung to see him wink at her. She was pleased to see it - even as part of her wished to be alone with Tadius. Just a few minutes more.

“Have we received any more missives since the morn?” She asked.

Tadius’ response was slow. “None of which I have heard. For now it seems all is quiet.”

“For now.” Ella repeated, sharing Tadius’ superstition that to declare any day to be ‘quiet’ was a surefire way to ensure it did not remain so.

In Tadius’ presence and slightly refreshed from washing, Ella remembered the exchange earlier when Sir Siyung had volunteered Tadius to fight. Something had passed over her lover’s face and she had a feeling she knew to what that could be attributed. She needed to ask when in priv-

“I believe Her Grace will have time to review the Church’s land request.” Tadius’ comment interrupted her musings.

“Ah, praise be!” Ella drawled.

As far as the council reported, the church was forever requesting more land to be assigned to their care. While it was true they had historically held more farmland and villages those had been seized by previous monarchs for good reason.

“Perhaps Lady Siobhan would be willing to help you word a reply.” Tadius said as they mounted the stairs to the Privy Chamber.

Ella slowed down as she remembered that Tadius would not be coming in with her. Tadius matched her pace but though he obviously noted her silence, did not remark upon it.

“Yes.” She finally answered as they reached the top of the stairs.

“Of course if her Grace requires an afternoon nap-”

“I am not a dowager.” Ella frowned.

“-to recover from arms training.” Tadius continued smoothly. “I am sure none would protest.”

“Tis hard work.” Sir Siyung added from behind them.

Ella repressed the urge to look at him reproachfully, given it was so rare for him to offer opinions at all. Retreating to her bedchambers did mean that Tadius could go with her. That was tempting. She assessed herself: while not at her most energetic, she could review and draw up a response before retiring for the evening. The responsible thing would be to do that without delay.

“So is ruling.” Tadius said, glancing at the knight.

Ella’s mind required a moment to put the pieces together. Ruling is hard too.

Yes. 

True.

“Would you send Lady Siobhan up?” She asked Tadius.

He bowed, expression blank. Ella swallowed what likely would have been a pitiful question as to what he was thinking and turned away so as not to watch him leave.

Lady Siobhan wasn’t such a bad companion, Ella thought an hour or so later.

While she had evidently been cowed by the judgements, she still respected Ella’s rule and had relaxed the longer Ella remained a human woman in her presence. The lady had even ventured a jape or two. Nothing matching Tadius’ wit but it was humour which Ella appreciated.

Once both of them were satisfied with the Crown’s response to the Church, Ella set it aside for a scribe to write up. There was still time until the evening meal.

“Would you like some tea?”

“Oh, if Your Grace is partaking, I won’t say no.”

Ella smiled and went to the door to ask Sir Siyung to find a maid to complete the order.

“Forgive my saying so, Your Grace, but to keep a servant at hand is not frowned upon.”

Trying not to read any subtext into the comment, Ella replied. “It feels unnecessary. Perhaps I have grown used to waiting.”

“Patience is a virtue.” Lady Siobhan agreed eagerly. “Your Grace is an example to us all.”

It was still strange to have people carefully considering their words before speaking to her - to be afraid of crossing her. Ella did not know how to feel about it.

“How’s the family?” Ella changed the subject.

Lady Siobhan smiled and gave an update on her son and his wife. They still had no child after a few years of marriage - something that evidently concerned the lady - yet she had naught but good to say about her daughter-in-law. Of that Ella was glad. Any older woman speaking lowly of their female relatives never failed to put her back up.

“And I hope the Queen’s personal affairs are…pleasing.” Lady Siobhan commented once Vishanti had served the tea and slipped out again.

Ella froze momentarily where she had been reaching for a biscuit. Quickly recovering, she answered vaguely. “Indeed.”

“I am glad to hear it.” The lady replied.

Her face held an unspoken question. Ella wondered if she would work up the courage to ask it.

Lady Siobhan did not ask, instead saying. “I am happy.” 

“Good.” Taking a leap, Ella continued. “Although there is something I could use some advice on.”

“Name it!”

“Ladies-in-waiting.”

“Ah,” Lady Siobhan sat back in her seat, “a tricky topic.”

“Is it?”

“Well, it is an important role, your Grace, as I am sure you realise. To hold the most intimate trust of the Monarch is a huge responsibility and one that cannot be undertaken without careful consideration and time.”

Something loosened in Ella’s chest. Clearly Lady Siobhan was not one of the courtiers tapping their feet for her to open her heart to more nobles - either ladies-in-waiting or lovers.

Not that anyone had said anything overt but Ella had been raised to hear the unspoken messages behind carefully neutral expressions.

Without Tadius’ friendly face, council meetings felt lonelier. Well, perhaps she might lean on Lady Siobhan for moral support.

“I have Tadius.” She said absently.

Lady Siobhan blinked but before Ella could panic over her plain statement, the lady smiled softly.

“A fine young man, that one.”

“Do you truly think so?” Ella asked, not doubting exactly, merely curious as to the council’s true opinion of him.

“Well, yes. He may not be as cultured or well-mannered as the noble men his age yet he is not without knowledge of courtly life or the arts.”

Ella had shared many long and fascinating conversations with Tadius over numerous subjects so again, asked for her own understanding of Lady Siobhan’s view. “Indeed?” 

“Yes!” Lady Siobhan’s face lit up. “Why, I remember on one occasion he quoted the entirety of The Lament of Lady Grey!”

An epic romance poem with a tragic ending: not one of Ella’s favourites but it was a classic. “Heavens!” She exclaimed. “Why?”

“Oh, I forget the exact sequence of events…” Lady Siobhan said even as she appeared to think. “I believe there was a delay or something for which the council was waiting. And someone proposed we tell poems to pass the time.” She considered another moment. “Ah! That’s it! Lord Andrew did not believe Master Tadius knew any poetry and,” she chuckled a little, “I will always remember the way Master Tadius puffed up slightly and without any preamble launched into The Lament .”

Ella could imagine it, though her amusement was mixed with sympathy. She knew what it was to be surrounded by those who looked down on her. Not for the first time she considered how much Tadius had really been respected before she had risen to power.

“I imagine Lord Andrew was displeased.” She commented.

Lady Siobahn tilted her head. “I cannot remember his reaction, but I applauded.” She added, thus further endearing herself to Ella.

“As I said, a fine young man.” The Lady concluded.

Ella smiled. “I agree.”

Heart warm at Siobhan’s support, Ella relaxed a little. She had another ally for her relationship with Tadius. While she paid most of her attention to Siobhan's advice for choosing a good lady-in-waiting, part of her mind wandered.

If only she could get some alone time with said lover...

Chapter Text

Somewhere a bird was singing. 

Tadius listened for a time, not wanting to open his eyes. He was comfortable: face pressed against something soft and body free from aches. 

Movement from behind him roused him further though; someone was shifting on the mattress. Tadius took a moment to remember where he was: the Queen’s bed.

She pressed up against his back and kissed his bare shoulder. Still in the process of waking, Tadius shifted his head back a little, eyes blinking open reluctantly.

“Good morrow.” Ella whispered.

He grunted something vaguely resembling a greeting.

Why was he so tired? Ella moved closer, one of her hands stroking back a curl from his forehead. Then Tadius remembered how she had stirred in the night, breathing heavily and shifting without rest. He’d stroked her head in the same way, whispering comforting words until she had calmed again. It had taken him a while to return to sleep after that, poised to act if she needed him again. He’d used the time to run through more protocol rules in his head.

“Forgive me?” She asked.

Tadius frowned. She had not woken to his memory, so why…?

“I have a feeling I disturbed you in the night.”

“It was no trouble.” He sighed, pulling his lips up in a tired smile.

“I have to leave soon.” Ella said, brows pinched in disappointment. “But I want to do something for you before I go.”

Tadius started to sit up but Ella’s hand on his shoulder stopped him. More alert, Tadius took in her shy expression and his heart rate jumped slightly. Relaxing, he let her press him onto his back.

She knelt above him, drawing the covers back and putting a hand on his hip.

“I’ve been practising.”

Tadius did not immediately understand - it took Ella bending down and sneaking a hand into his smallclothes for realisation to strike. She pulled them down, clasping his half-hard cock with the other hand.

With more confidence than the last time, she bent and guided the head of his cock into her mouth. Her lips rounded into an ‘o’ shape and she sucked.

Tadius groaned.

In addition to the sensation, Ella was a picture: even first thing in the morning with strands of hair falling out of her bonnet and crusts in the corner of her eyes. The sight of her lips around him sent even more blood rushing downward.

She looked up at him through her lashes - from the angle and the current occupation of her mouth it was impossible to tell her emotion but Tadius imagined it was impish.

She pulled back to lather the top of his dick with her tongue.

I’ve been practising, her words floated back to the surface of his mind.

That idea was even more alluring and Tadius felt his skin growing warmer, breath catching as he imagined it.

Ella changed angles, again wrapping her lips around his length and inching down. Jaw clenching, Tadius couldn’t keep his hips and feet from jerking from the pleasure.

Ella moved down a little further, forcing a gasp from Tadius’ lips. His head reared back and he squeezed his eyes shut; hands grasping the sheets to keep from grabbing onto Ella and fighting to keep quiet.

Then she pulled all the way up.

“Is it good?”

The question did not register at first. Then Tadius shot his head up.

“Yes! Gods, Ella! Yes!”

She was smiling tentatively. Tadius reached down; just able to put a hand on her knee.

“Truly.”

Her smile relaxed and she rubbed her thumb over Tadius’ slit.

“Are you sure?”

“Mmm…” Tadius nodded, still trying to keep as quiet as possible.

A foolish endeavour perhaps, given how his Queen could play him like a fiddle. She seemed to realise that too because she hummed back - mockingly - and moved down again.

Gods, her mouth was warm and wet. Liquid fire shot through Tadius’ nerves as she began to move up and down, lips gliding over her spit and his precum.

“Yes.” The word slipped out of his mouth unbidden.

She continued, rhythm not entirely even with some stops and starts, but the pressure at the base of Tadius’ spine kept building nonetheless.

His breathing was heavy, neck limp even as his head tossed from the pleasure.

Suddenly his orgasm was upon him.

“Ella!” He gasped, alarm cutting through the white heat.

She didn’t seem to have heard him. Barely managing to keep control, Tadius thrust a hand out, brushing a strand of hair hard enough to get her attention. She looked up, lips coming up to the head of his cock but not releasing.

That undid him.

“I’m-” He choked.

Luckily she understood his meaning and pulled off. Tadius’ cock twitched and spurted as he came: warm waves rolling through him. Eyes squeezed shut, he could not help but cry out. Vaguely, he felt a weight settle beside him but could not focus. Once spent, he collapsed down and panted.

Forcing his eyes open again, he blinked to focus on Ella’s twinkling ones.

She looked very pleased with herself. “I told you.”

“You did.” Tadius grinned.

He reached out a clumsy hand, relieved when she took it and guided it to her cheek.

“Incredible.” He breathed.

“Well,” she demurred, “there’s always room for improvement.”

“Any better might be the end of me.” He said.

Then grimaced as he became increasingly aware of the mess cooling on his skin. Noticing too, Ella rolled away and came back with a damp cloth. Tadius was too slow from the early hour and orgasm to do anything but watch her wipe his chest clean.

Just as she finished he thought to ask. “How long have you been awake?”

“Oh, not long.” She replied airily.

When she turned back to him from tossing the cloth away, Tadius leaned up and kissed her on the cheek. She regarded him with a question on her face.

“Thank you.”

He had felt a little disappointed the day before when Ella had decided to work instead of ‘nap’, yet had quickly brushed off the feeling to concentrate on his own duties. He’d lost track of time in the archive room, missed dinner and stumbled into her rooms to find her halfway ready for bed. Though Ella had chastised him for working too hard, she had also been tired so they had simply fallen asleep. 

Whether or not she had been planning her move for the night before, Tadius could say with full certainty it had definitely been worth the wait.

“It gladdens me that you enjoyed it.” Ella smiled.

“Oh, I did.”

I’ve been practising.

Since his brain had fully woken up, Tadius had questions. So many questions.

Before he could ask any though, Ella kissed his forehead and climbed off the bed.

“Where are you going?” The question slipped out.

“I’m meeting Lord Andrew for breakfast.” Ella called from behind the drapes.

Tadius’ joy soured a little. 

“Stay in bed!” He called back, half-seriously.

Ella laughed but he still heard clothes being put on. Torn between pouting and responsibility, Tadius shuffled to the edge of the bed, pulling up his smallclothes as he went, and poked his head out.

“Everyone would understand.”

Ella went to sit at the vanity table and smiled at him through the glass.

“Lord Andrew wouldn’t.” She sighed. “I would never hear the end of it.”

“You’re the Queen-”

“And I should not abuse that fact.” Ella shot back sensibly.

Normally Tadius would agree. “There’s an exception to every rule.”

Ella brushed the end of her hair pensively, working out the knots without seeming to notice.

Heart clenching, Tadius moved to pull the drape aside when someone knocked on the bed chamber door.

“Your Grace?” Sun called.

Tadius panicked and retreated back behind the drapes. He heard the women talking as his face burned. While he was not fully nude, he still was not decent and his trunk of clothes was across the room. A minute or so later the drapes fluttered but it was Ella - wearing one of her serious crowns.

“What do you think? Warning enough?” 

Tadius nodded. “I’ll say.”

Smiling, she beckoned. He bit back a question as to whether Sun was still out there and came to the edge of the bed. Ella took his cheek in one hand and kissed him. Feeling light, Tadius relaxed and kissed back. As her mouth opened to let him in, he tasted himself on her tongue. A shiver of remembered pleasure brushed up his spine.

Too soon, Ella pulled back. “I should go.”

Pushing down a complaint, Tadius instructed. “Make him work for each bite.”

Ella nodded mock-seriously before departing. Tadius listened to her walk out of the room, staring morosely at the drapes.

Then he shook himself. How could he be anything but flattered and touched after that show of care?

I’ve been practising.

Gods!

Tadius nodded to himself, he needed to up his own efforts. Fast.

Just after he had drilled every line of protocol into his head.

…

The Lord was already seated when Ella entered. 

He leapt up, still quite spry for a man of his age, and bowed.

“Good morrow, your Grace.”

Ella nodded and returned the greeting. “Please, sit.”

While not as long a table as that for formal dinners, the Official Breakfast table could comfortably fit eight people. It was laden with a few covered dishes, jugs of various juices, a coffee jug and a teapot. 

The two of them sat, Ella at the head with Andrew at her right. The Lord’s fingers twitched and Ella remembered the fuss everyone had made when she’d insisted on seating herself without aid. That had felt like a wasted day of back and forth, on reflection. Perhaps she should have eased the court into it more subtly. Even Tadius had been reluctant to agree with her.

Suppressing a smile, she served herself coffee, concentrating on the task so as not to disgrace herself that early. She then selected an assortment of eggs, toast and sausages, glad that she had done away with servants placing everything on her plate with little tongs, as if they had nothing better to be doing.

“I hope you slept well.” The Lord said, sipping his tea.

Ella hesitated and asked herself if she dared utter her first thought.

“I did, thank you, my Lord.” Tadius’ adorably sleep-filled look flooded her mind so the words just slipped out. “And I had a pleasant waking, too.”

Andrew paused where he was reaching for a piece of toast, frowning lightly as if parsing her words.

“And yourself?” She asked, biting into her own toast.

He looked up and coughed. “Yes, very well, thank you. The nights becoming less frigid have been a great help.”

Ella replied, saying she did not dislike very cold nights, and they continued on the topic for a few minutes.

Feeling more awake due to her coffee, Ella broached what she most wished to discuss.

She recalled the previous evening when a drowsy Tadius had rolled into the bed and half-explained something about Court Codes and Lord Andrew’s advice. He had not made much sense, barely seeming to hear her admonishment for the ink stains on his fingers, so Ella had resolved to question him more in the morning. 

But then she had been too eager to pleasure him with her new technique. Instead she reasoned that she understood the gist and could speak to Lord Andrew about it. It made sense that Tadius would want to sharpen his hosting skills in preparation for more Ladies descending curiously on him. Thankfully Vishanti had managed to offer Ella an account of the meeting with House Alba because Tadius’ version had been incredibly thin and unsure. While Ella had faith in Tadius’ many years of experience at court, she did not think it would hurt for him to receive advice from a protocol expert.

“I wanted to thank you for helping Tadius.” She said.

“Oh?” Andrew replied, eyes widening.

“How did that come about?”

“Oh, well,” he shifted in his seat, “when I heard about his meeting with the Ladies Alba I wished to offer my advice.” He hesitated, then said slowly. “Forgive me for saying, your Grace, but it is quite a transition.”

Ella swallowed. She had not truly considered what becoming an official lover would mean for Tadius’ relationship with the rest of the court, not just with her. He was familiar with many of them - especially those regularly in the castle - and yet the dynamic was shifting.

“Anything I could do to help the boy I would do willingly.” Andrew smiled.

He’s more chipper than usual, Ella thought. Perhaps the warmer weather did agree with him.

She debated whether to subtly correct the use of ‘boy’ in relation to Tadius but put the thought aside for another time.

“I am glad to hear that, as I want you to give him the same instruction you granted me when I first began hosting Houses at the castle.” She ordered.

Andrew’s advice had been invaluable at a time when Ella had felt overwhelmed and underconfident in her abilities. Though he came across as self-important and could tell the odd bone-dry anecdote one wanted to escape from, he did his job well and Ella had felt much more confident in her skills.

She wanted the same for Tadius. Hearing the Lord had already given Tadius aid had reassured her that they could get along without too much sniping. Hopefully with such help, her lover might progress quickly, settle into his new duties and be able to return to her side quicker.

“Of course, your Grace.” Andrew nodded with a small smile. “I would be happy to.”

Ella smiled back, pleased the lord seemed to have lost his resistance to Tadius’ appointment.

“Just as long as he does not run himself ragged.” She warned. “You will ensure he does not neglect himself unduly, my Lord.”

Andrew bowed his head in acknowledgement.

Taking another sip of coffee, Ella let herself relax. As the Lord began to relate some disastrous breakfast he had once shared with the old King, Ella’s mind wandered upstairs to her bedchambers. Tadius’ cry as he’d come played again in her head and she felt the echo of pride and affection.

It truly had been an excellent start to the day!

…

Vishanti’s first thought on entering the Lower Sitting Room was that Master Tadius looked even more nervous than the first time. House Dalarna had called and though the Queen was in residence and available to meet them - Lady Maja had mentioned the Crown Consort intently enough for the doorman to relate their desire to meet him.

Thus Vishanti put down her tray to a room of the Queen, Tadius and the Dalarna’s all sitting in a loose circle. There was Lady Maja, her two young children, about six and nine, and what must have been their governess.

Though not immediately obvious to a stranger, Tadius’ intense discomfort was clear to Vishanti. The Queen too, judging by the concerned glance she shot his way.

Vishanti served the tea as the Queen discussed the weather with Lady Maja - Tadius nodding along mutely. Beside their mother on the long couch was the young Lady, clutching a doll, and her older brother who was shifting restlessly. The governess, sat on a chair on the boy’s right, hissed something that made them both sit up straighter and still.

Tadius evidently noticed because he smiled down at the young lady.

“My lady, I don’t believe I’ve been introduced to your friend?” He nodded to her doll.

The girl looked down at her doll and then up again, eyes narrowed as if to puzzle him out. Vishanti finished serving and took the tray to the back of the room, then assumed a waiting position. Even from a few metres away she could still see the children clearly.

The young lord looked between his sister and Tadius and offered. “She calls her Lina.”

“Good day, Lina.” Tadisu responded, seemingly talking directly to the doll.

The young girl’s eyes widened and watched Tadius even more carefully.

Vishanti saw the governess’ expression shift but the women didn’t say anything.

“She takes it everywhere.” The boy elaborated, judgement heavy in his tone.

“Mattias.” The governess warned. “Do not bother the Lord.”

“Oh, no, please,” Tadius waved his hand, “I want to know more.” He turned to the boy, “who are your friends?”

Lady Maja and the Queen had paused their conversation and were listening as the boy answered. Vishanti could not see the Queen’s expression from her position but the Lady was frowning ever so slightly. Tadius asked about games which the boy happily elaborated on. Meanwhile the young Lady was sitting up, paying close attention to the conversation.

“Mattias.” The lady interjected after a moment, “your collar.”

The governess reached across to adjust it - to the boy’s disgruntlement.

“Do you play ‘Fingers’, too?” Tadius asked the girl without missing a beat.

She shook her head.

“No? What do you play?” Tadius asked, hunching over a little to be more on the girl’s level, voice as light as gossamer.

The girl did not reply, thumb rubbing over the doll’s hair.

The governess leaned in and said, not unkindly. “She does not speak easily, my Lord.”

Tadius glanced her way before looking back to the girl. “Ah, well, sometimes there’s no need.” His voice sounded like he was smiling.

The girl continued to eye him, though Vishanti noticed her grip on her doll seemed looser than before.

“She plays tea parties.” The boy supplied with disdain.

“Oh? I love tea parties.” Tadius told the boy seriously.

“I do too.” Queen Ella finally spoke.

The boy’s head swivelled, mouth open a little. “You do?”

“Of course!” Queen Ella laughed, making the girl look up at her.

Tadius added. “You meet the most interesting people there.”

“Did you hear that, Bibbi?” Lady Maja asked, brushing a strand of hair out of her daughter’s face. “There is no better endorsement than the Queen’s.”

The girl nodded at her mother, face bright.

“Perhaps we c-”

A knock on the door interrupted the Queen’s next words.

Anda entered. “Apologies for the interruption, your Grace. An urgent missive has arrived from Lady Livia.”

Tadius and Queen Ella exchanged a glance, Tadius nodding slightly. The Queen rose, everyone else following suit.

“Forgive me.”
“There is nothing to forgive, your Grace.” Lady Maja said, curtseying.

They all watched as the Queen left and then sat again in awkward silence. Vishanti had the sudden urge to cough and swallowed harshly.

“How are you finding the tea, my lady?” Tadius asked.

“It is a fine blend. ‘Golden Sunrise’, I take it?”

“Quite so.”

“Are you not partial to it?” She asked.

“My lady?”

She nodded to his cup.

“Oh.” Tadius looked down.

Vishanti realised she hadn’t seen him drink any.

“I do not like it too hot, my lady.” He answered.

The lady nodded. Vishanti caught sight of Tadius’ right thumb tapping on his knee. His head tilted to the children but he did not speak to them.

Instead he spoke again to the lady. “If I’m not mistaken your ladyship journeyed to the Golden Hold in years past.”

“I did. My Lord Husband was obsessed with seeing the famous markets.” Her brows lifted in exasperation.

“Ah.” Tadius said, perhaps questioning the merits of the topic.

“And it was so hot!”

“I would like to go to the Golden Hold!” The boy cried.

The governess shushed him on the lady’s behalf.

“No, I confess I am somewhat a homebody.” The Lady continued smoothly. “There is no place quite like the Copper Valley.”

“There is an extensive garden at Copper House I understand.” Tadius said.

“Oh, yes!” The lady beamed. “Especially now the Fire Lilies are blooming.”

“That must be an impressive sight.” 

The two continued the garden conversation as the children grew more and more bored. At least the girl could fiddle with the doll’s dress; the boy merely had a jangling knee that bounced higher and higher. Vishanti did not blame him.

“My lady.” Tadius said. “If you have partaken enough tea, perhaps your children and yourself might like a tour around the Royal Gardens?”

The lady smiled and agreed.

“Stay with me, children.” The governess ordered as the group left the tea room.

Glad for the chance to subtly shake out her feet, Vishanti followed at a respectful distance. She only caught bits and pieces of Tadius and the lady’s conversation but it seemed fairly standard to her.

Tadius smoothly led the lady into the gardens with the Governess shepherding the children in after them. There was a gardener weeding - who stood up to bow - but otherwise they were empty.

Tadius pointed something out on a bush and the lady stepped closer. As she did so, Tadius twisted around and found Vishanti’s eyes. She slipped over and listened as he murmured.

“Could you check if the outdoor chairs are prepared?”

The Queen sometimes liked to sit outside - especially with the weather becoming warmer - so the outdoor set should have been uncovered in the morning in preparation. Though to be sure Tadius trusted all the servants in the castle, he took after the Steward in believing it never hurt to double check a job had been done before the noble-blooded descended.

“Of course.” She nodded, resisting a teasing remark given their proximity to the lady.

She quickly walked to the table positioned beside a Lantern bush in a round clearing. None of the plants there had particularly strong scents which made it an ideal place for eating or drinking. While there were benches placed more strategically for aromatic purposes in another clearing, none were big enough to house the whole group.

Counting the chairs, Vishanti set out two more and arranged them accordingly. It was not sunny enough to necessitate the small marquee so she settled for checking all the seats were clean and dry.

Satisfied, she ran back to the group. The lady was chatting to Tadius while gesturing to a flower, the boy was running circles around the exasperated governess and the girl was following behind, playing with her doll.

Vishanti divided her attention between the girl and Tadius until he caught her eye again.

“They’re ready.” She said lowly into his ear. 

He nodded in acknowledgement, then asked.

“Might you show the lady to the powder room?”

Vishanti hummed agreement, then curtseyed to the lady. “This way, my lady.”

She led the way and though she kept within talking distance, they walked in silence. It was never certain how nobles would treat Vishanti in private, she mused as they went. Position in the rankings played a part but wasn’t the only factor.

As she walked, she reflected. She knew there had been some muttering about Tadius’ stable tour with Lady Dolores but all of the servants had readily accepted Vishanti’s theory he had been responding to the woman’s need for a break from her mother. None who had shared any real contact with Tadius could honestly believe he had possessed any other motive. Though when anyone dared ask him, he would hurriedly assure them he was aware of his error.

The council members had also been talking about it - though if they had done so in front of the Queen was unknown. Vishanti doubted it. They would have heard of the Queen’s fierce refutation in defence of Tadius’ honour.

In fact, Sun had rather tersely instructed Rachel not to say anything to the Queen to avoid Her Grace’s protective nature doing more harm than good. It would be very easy for the court to read defensiveness into any official word from the Crown.

As much as the castle staff did not like Lord Andrew, many agreed he was best placed to help Master Tadius in his new duties.

“Unless he tries to talk sweet Tadius out of it all.” Rachel had murmured to Vishanti the day before.

Vishanti was of the opinion the Queen’s obvious affection for Tadius held more sway with him than a bitter Lord’s snipes but she could not deny Tadius was as human as the rest of them.

Lady Maja left the powder room and Vishanti dutifully guided her back to the gardens. 

Vishanti immediately saw the governess in the clearing but could not see anyone else until they rounded the corner.

The boy was playing knights with Squire Crumb, both armed with small sticks. A little way away, Tadius was crouched down next to the little girl: the pair seeming deep in conversation, both looking down at her doll. A smile involuntarily spread over Vishanti’s face.

“Mama!” Birgritta cried as she saw Lady Maja. “Look!”

She held up her doll which had a small flower tied in its hair.

“Birgitta!” Lady Maja chastised. “Do not tell me you-”

“Please, my lady.” Tadius held up a hand. “Fear not. We asked permission from the gardener first.” He looked down at the girl. “Didn’t we?”

Birgitta nodded. “She said this one’s a Sunspot!”

Relaxing, the Lady walked over and said. “Yes, that’s right.” She bent down. “Lina looks lovely, darling.”

Birgitta beamed. Her mother brushed a hand over her cheek.

“Mama!” Mattias cried, waving. “I’m winning!”

Lady Maja looked up and laughed a little. “Well, pay attention then!”

Mattias gasped and turned back to Crumb who - Vishanti knew as she’d seen him really practising - was only playfighting.

Tadius stood and addressed the lady. “Would your ladysh-”

“Is that the Mouse Knight?” The Lady interrupted, eyes still fixed on Crumb.

“Yes, my lady.” Tadius replied, seeming torn between amusement at her reaction and nervousness. “Although he has not technically earned his title yet.”

The governess commented. “I verified that he would be gentle with our Mattias.”

“Yes, thank you, Laura.” Lady Maja replied, looking at her servant and nodding.

Clearing his throat, Tadius asked. “Would your ladyship like to continue the tour?”

She looked around at her children and shook her head. “Do not trouble yourself, sir. This is a pleasant place to linger.”

Tadius led her to the table where they sat with the girl between them and the governess on the lady’s other side. Tadius resumed his conversation with the girl - and her doll - while the lady watched, interjecting occasionally or sharing comments with the governess.

Movement caught Vishanti’s eye and she turned her head minutely to- oh, no.

Lord Andrew was coming down the path.

Tadius didn’t notice, too focused on the girl, but Lord Andrew was definitely noting everything. Resisting the urge to clear her throat loudly, Vishanti held faith the Lord would not be able to find anything amiss with her friend's conduct.

Mattias chose that moment to run up, almost colliding with the Lord. Vishanti did gasp then, causing Tadius to look up and Tadius all but leapt out of his seat as he saw what was happening.

“My lord!”

Lady Maja and the governess rose at a normal speed, curtseying, as they exchanged greetings with him. He had jerked to a stop to avoid the boy, but greeted the women warmly.

Mattias bounced on his feet and called insistently. “Mama!”

“Mattias!” The governess hissed.

“Woah, there, young sir!” Lord Andrew addressed the boy. “Where are you off to so fast?”

“Good day, sir!” The young lord cried. “I beat Squire Crumb in a fair fight!” 

Lord Andrew raised his eyebrows. “You did?” He looked up at Lady Maja and they shared a smile.

Tadius looked between them nervously but Lord Andrew bent down a little to continue talking to Lord Mattias. Crumb sidled up to the table and seemingly over their surprise at his form, Lady Maja and the governess joined him in conversation. Master Tadius added a little but was distracted by how Lady Birgitta had retreated into her shell. It appeared to Vishanti that Lord Andrew was familiar with House Darlana, easily trading comments with Lady Maja and asking Mattias specific questions about his home and recent family events. At one point Vishanti realised that Tadius had not spoken in a while.

Eventually Lady Maja made their excuses and bade farewell. Although she technically did not need to, Vishanti followed behind to the carriages.

Everything seemed very amiable as people curtseyed and bowed and waved. Even Birgitta managed a smile at Tadius as she made her doll wave.

Tadius waved back, eyes bright.

Then the carriage was pulling away and Vishanti leaned in, eager to hear what Lord Andrew was going to say.

“So, what did you learn?” He asked.

“Lady Maja hates the Golden Hold, loves Fire Blooms and she has started to bring her youngest to court.” Tadius answered immediately.

“How was their behaviour?”

Tadius hesitated. “Well, they’re children.”

“Not just any children. They will grow to marry into great houses if their father’s plans come to fruition.”

Tadius looked up curiously but the Lord waved a hand.

“We’ll go through that another day.” 

Then he nodded to prompt Tadius into saying the children held themselves well.

“To my knowledge it is not usual to bring children that young to court, is it?” Tadius asked.

“No. Though it is not unheard of.” Lord Andrew opened his mouth to say something then evidently changed his mind. “What else?”

“The Lord Darlana did not attend.”

“The excuse?”

“The Lady did not provide one.”

“You did not ask after him?” The Lord frowned. 

“I did not know if he had recovered from his fall last month.” Tadius answered hesitantly. “I thought it might be insensitive to enquire.”

Lord Andrew’s frown deepened. “It was not that hard a fall.”

“Indeed? I heard the family hired the services of a soothsayer to-”

“Bah!” Lord Andrew flapped a hand. “Just peasant gossip! He’s probably hunting.” He straightened and said more seriously. “A polite enquiry over absent family members is always required.”

Tadius nodded. “Of course, my Lord, I’ll remember.”

“Good. Well, I need to get back to the council.”

“The letter from Lady Livia, was-”

“It is council business.” Lord Andrew interrupted, shooting a lightning fast look at Vishanti.

Tadius’ shoulders drooped.

“Come to see me tomorrow.” The Lord instructed.

Tadius did not protest, nodding again. Tadius and Vishanti watched the Lord walk back down the path to the castle proper.

“I thought that went well.” Vishanti said after a moment.

Tadius turned to her, frowning like he was going to argue, but on meeting her gaze sighed instead.

“Truly?” He asked.

It was very strange seeing Tadius so unsure - even exhausted or ill Tadius always seemed to have some control over the situation. Vishanti did not like it.

“Yes.” She said firmly.

His face smoothed out and he smiled a little. “Thank you.”

Vishanti made sure to smile back even wider.

…

Later, when the Queen summoned Vishanti for a debrief, the servant was happy to report what she called a success. Queen Ella gave a small sigh.

“Lord Andrew is helping him.” She said.

“Oh, I heard.” Vishanti could not help but comment.

Queen Ella’s brows pinched slightly. “He was not being too harsh, was he?”

“No, your Grace.” Vishanti was forced to admit.

“Good.” The Queen smiled.

“The Lord did not comment but Master Tadius was very good with the young lord and lady.” Vishanti felt the need to add.

The Queen sat up a little, clearly interested.

“Yes, he noticed the Lord was restless so suggested a tour of the garden and I do not know how he did it but he coaxed the young lady out of her shell.”

The Queen seemed charmed by the idea. She dismissed Vishanti soon after and Vishanti skipped away for the evening meal.

The Servant’s Hall was all aflutter, discussing the visit - made all the more brazen by Tadius’ absence. Sitting at the table, listening to people speculate and argue, Vishanti took a moment to miss him.

While by no means the loudest, liveliest or most amusing, Tadius had offered a steady presence at evening meals. When there was frivolity he was quietly amused - and would murmur astute observations to her - when a serious argument broke out he would mediate and when anyone was upset he could give words of comfort.

Many a time Vishanti and Tadius would sit next to each other and not speak more than two words to the other yet it had been…nice.

Since his appointment as official lover, he had not eaten in the Servant’s Hall. Morosely, Vishanti wondered if Tadius would ever eat with them again. Judging by how the loudest voices were braying, she did not have high hopes.

Rachel bumped her shoulder to Vishanti’s. “You alright?”

“I’m just thinking about Tadius.”

Rachel studied her friend’s face then smiled softly. “I miss him too.”

Vishanti bumped their shoulders again and went back to her meal. 

Nothing lasts forever, she thought. So take each day as it comes.

Chapter Text

Yinko was reordering her store cupboard when the frog knight knocked. It was early evening and the castle was settling down. That was usually the time someone came to visit her so she wasn’t surprised. The physician did have to bite back her first thought which was to question him about his intentions towards Tadius. Instead she forced herself to be professional.

“Sir Hop-A-Lot,” she asked, still half-in the cupboard, “what can I do for you?”

There did not seem to be an obvious injury, so Yinko’s mind was already considering-

“I’m concerned about the boy.” Sir Hop admitted.

Yinko blinked before her mind caught up. She came out of the cupboard and shut the door. Looking more closely, she saw the lines creased in his normally smooth forehead.

“Crumb?” She asked.

Sir Hop nodded, beginning to pace in the Physician’s room. 

“Alright.” Yinko said slowly. “What concerns you?”

Shaking his head, Sir Hop related. “He has not been himself lately.”

Sensing a long conversation, Yinko went to sit in her chair. “I see. He has not spoken to you of any troubles?”

“None!” Sir Hop threw his arms up, gaze hovering just above ground level.

“Can you give me any specific examples of his new behaviour?”

“He is sighing more than normal and is quite listless in his sword practice.” Sir Hop related, then he pulled at his beard as he murmured. “And he didn’t finish his cheese last night.”

That was worrying.

“Well, have you tried talking to him?”

“He will not speak to me!” The knight cried, hands out in a beseeching gesture. “He claims all is fine!” He shook his head. “Pure insolence.” Any sting from the rebuke was softened by his tone.

Yinko had an idea of what could be bothering the mouse but did not feel confident enough to wade into the situation just then.

“Perhaps then, it is to do with something he has stopped mentioning.” She suggested.

The knight abruptly halted in his pacing, mind working. Then his finger went up. “Of course! The Queen and…” He frowned.

“You are not planning on duelling Tadius, are you?” Yinko could not resist asking.

“What?” Sir Hop twisted around to face her. “Why would…?” He harrumped. “Well, not unless he dishonours her.”

“What exactly is your problem with him?” Yinko pressed. “Besides blood.”

“He is not skilled with a blade!” Sir Hop cried.

“The Queen has many guards, including yourself and Crumb, does any spouse of the Queen truly need to be that good a fighter?”

“It is tradition!” He insisted.

“It has not been tradition for a Queen to have such fierce and magical defenders as yourself though, has it? Perhaps her happiness matters more.”

Sir Hop scoffed. “As if he could bring her happiness!”

Yinko tossed aside formality and went direct. “What are his faults, sir knight?”

“I have told you!”

“You have told me nothing impressive. I mean in his character, what about his personhood would make him a bad match for our Queen?”

The frog knight thought for a long moment. His mouth opened and then shut again; his brow furrowed. Somewhere in the distant wood an owl hooted.

Finally, he said. “He smells.”

“In the same way that all humans do?” Yinko challenged, remembering well how he had petitioned for her help to cope with living in the castle.

Sir Hop mumbled something she took to be reluctant confirmation.

“So there is nothing else?” She pressed.

“...I still say fighting skills are essential for any spouse.”

“So, if your only concern is blood-”

“It is enough!” Sir Hop cried, finger striking the air.

“As I was saying, the Queen has the power to grant someone a title, does she not? It is up to the Monarch’s will as to who is noble and who is not.” Yinko said, giving voice to an idea she had been nurturing for a while.

“Correct.” Sir Hop agreed, mouth in a thin line. “I suppose, technically.”

“So…”

“Well, yes, there is precedent. But, aha!” His finger shot up into the air again. “But only after a great deed! Yes, hmm. The Monarch cannot just hand out titles like sweetened eels!”

Yinko had thought about that. “Perhaps saving the Queen from a poisoned flower counts as a great deed?”

Sir Hop turned to regard her seriously, his gaze heavy. “As I understand, he merely aided you in the treatment.”

“At risk to himself….somewhat.” It was Yinko’s turn to show reluctance.

Sir Hop shook his head. “Well, in any case it would be a little awkward to do it now… So long after!”

“It has been only a month or so.” Yinko argued.

“No, no. If that were an option it would have to be something else.”

Disgruntled but knowing he had a point, Yinko just said. “As you say, sir knight.”

“We are off-track!” The frog knight shook his head. “Crumb is my responsibility and I am fail-”

“Sir knight, if you wish for my advice it is thus: speak to Crumb.” Yinko said, firmly but not unkindly. “Tell him you worry for him and ask what is wrong. If he shares his troubles, do not interrupt or dismiss his words, simply listen.”

Sir Hop thought through her words for a moment, then his expression cleared.

“I thank you, physician Yinko.” He bowed and took his leave abruptly.

In the empty room, Yinko sighed. Perhaps she had managed to shift the Frog Knight’s position slightly. She had heard that Lord Andrew had begun instructing the Crown Consort on hosting. While some took that as a good sign, Yinko did not believe the Lord would actually endorse Tadius in a more permanent role. He, like many other nobles, held too closely onto the idea of blood status as a divider.

It could be time for a review of Lord Andrew’s healing tea supply, Yinko thought. And a casual conversation about how things were going. Maybe a few idle comments or a smidgen of speculation could be shared too.

Yes, Yinko decided. That sounded like a very good idea.

…

The damn side tables were too heavy, Rachel thought angrily as she tried to nudge one just far enough away from the wall to fit the broom behind it.

Since Queen Ella had taken over the castle she had consolidated her activities to a fewer number of rooms. She knew, intimately, the task of keeping a large amount of space clean - without a whole staff no less - so she had made sure the Steward could cut down on regular cleaning of some of the lesser-used rooms.

Thus Rachel was in a slightly dusty side room once used to house an overflow of visitors. The damn side table had no ornaments atop it but was full of random bits in the cupboard that servants had stashed there over the years. Some were useful - like extra blankets or handfans - others - such as broken pieces of jewellery or other scraps of fabric - were not.

Glaring at the thing, Rachel put a hand on her hip and asked herself if she should remove a few heavy items from it to make it easier to move.

“Need a hand?” A voice asked from behind her.

She turned to see Tadius entering.

“Please!” Rachel cried immediately - pride long gone.

They each lifted one corner and together shifted the table about a foot away from the wall. Rachel picked up her broom and swept the gap. Once dust-free, they replaced the table against the wall.

“Why not sweep around it?” Tadius asked. “No one ever uses this room anymore.”

“And leave a job half done?” Rachel gasped, only partly in jest.

Tadius looked around the room. “That would be closer to a job nine tenths done. Or nineteen twentieths.”

Rachel raised a warning finger at him. “Do not let Miss Han catch you blaspheme so.”

Tadius smiled a little but too briefly. 

Rachel cocked her head. “Something troubles you?”

She saw him swallow and his eyes darted away from her a moment.

“Well,” he began quietly, “I have a question of sorts.”

“Alright.” Rachel said mainly to fill the short pause.

He did not ask his question. From his increasingly hunched shoulders, she was beginning to suspect it was of a sensitive nature. There was only one thing that could induce that kind of behaviour from him. While she had not been lucky enough to see much of Tadius and the Queen together, Rachel had noticed an upswing in both of their moods. The other day she had caught Queen Ella humming. Some castle staff worried about the long term implications of Tadius’ appointment and reactions from the court, but Rachel could only be happy for them both.

“Is it to do with the Queen?” She asked.

Tadius nodded and cleared his throat. “Yes. You may know - I mean, you know - that we are-” he waved a hand.

“Lovers.” Rachel supplied.

“Yes.”

“Intimate.”

He blushed. “Yes.”

An idea struck her, popping an incredulous question out of her lips. “Tadius, are you asking for lovemaking advice?”

His face reddened even more. Rachel was surprised. While she and the other maids knew he’d been a virgin before meeting the Queen - a few women had tried over the years but any time he’d had away from the prince he’d wanted to spend by himself in a quiet room - they had concluded he must have pleased her enough for her to officially declare him.

“Well, I just have a question regarding something specific.” Tadius explained, voice tight.

Rachel leaned on her broom, indicating he continue with the other hand.

He began slowly. “You mentioned once the Golden Hold groomsman you…”

“Laid with.” Rachel finished helpfully.

“Yes. You said he,” Tadius took a quick breath then continued, “did things with his tongue.”

Rachel’s sex clenched in memory. Hiding her reaction, she took in his stiff shoulders and red face - he really was jettisoning himself into uncomfortable waters to please his lover - and his Queen. Rachel had not considered the extra pressure he may feel to perform until that moment. Her heart turned over.

“Do you want a summary or detailed instructions?”

He spluttered. “No instructions! I just need to know the general…” his hand waved jerkily.

“Alright. First, take your time.” Rachel said firmly.

Relief washed over his features, leaving a serious expression in its wake.

“Ease her into it, lots of kisses and touches before you even get down there.”

He nodded, embarrassment completely replaced by focus.

“Every woman is different so you will need to learn what she likes in terms of area and pressure but there is a small nub at the top of her sex, you will know when you find it.”

“Right.” Tadius said, nodding as if memorising directions to a chapel. "Yes, I do..." his cheeks darkened slightly and he coughed, "yes."

Ignoring his fumbling, Rachel continued. “Start gently and then see what happens.”

“Gently.” Tadius repeated under his breath. Maybe he was memorising her words.

He looked up. “With…with my tongue?”

“With your tongue.” Rachel confirmed. “Some like to practise on fruit-”

Tadius shook his head, eyes darting as he thought. “That will not, no, I…I won’t need that, thank you.”

Shrugging a little, Rachel didn’t push.

Tadius eyed her a beat before beginning to ask. “Did the Queen..?”

But he shook his head sharply, evidently changing his mind.

“How…” he huffed and met her gaze again, “if I cannot see her face, how will I know she is enjoying it?”

Oh, I should have had my go at the secret kitchen party, Rachel thought. 

Four years later and she could still remember the way Tadius had laughed. They’d been in the kitchens as many of the servants had been imbibing the leftover punch from some function or other. The Prince had been ill and dead asleep - meaning Tadius had enough time on his hands to stay awhile - and the Steward had been tied up in some business - meaning there was no oversight for the whole evening. Maids, cooks, porters, ushers and even some groomsmen had gathered in the kitchens and drank - someone brought a fiddle and they’d danced and sang. It had been a magical night and at one point, Rachel had looked over to Tadius and thought he was a handsome man. And sweet. And someone who deserved a good time more than most. She could no longer recall what had held her back.

I should have dragged him into a dark corner and taken my chance!

“Well, you’ll need to listen.” She said, smiling softly. 

Realising she was done, Tadius bowed his head. “Thank you, Rachel.”

It was not that Tadius was ever false but Rachel had never heard him sound so sincere. 

No, she thought as he straightened his tunic, not just sincere…unsure? Vulnerable?

She really is lucky, the Queen, to have such a considerate and dedicated lover.

The door opening jolted her out of her musings and when she saw Miss Han, Rachel jumped even further to attention.

“I’m almost done!” She cried.

The Steward shot her a look over but her eyes soon locked back onto Tadius.

“You’re needed.” She said. “Lady Silverhead is here.”

Rachel watched the blood drain from his face and felt a sympathetic clench in her gut. In true Tadius fashion he met the challenge with barely a flinch. After a short exchange Rachel watched him leave, head up, and glanced at Miss Han.

As ever the Steward did not offer any clues to her thoughts, instead looking around the room.

“Good. Carry on.”

Reluctantly, Rachel did. Her mind whirled. Was Tadius ready to meet with the head of one of the Old Houses? Mother of a traitor no less? And what of the other matter? Was Tadius responding to the Queen’s expectations of their lovemaking or taking initiative on his own?

Her tongue burned with the need to share what she had learned with the others yet… Tadius’ fragile expression came back to her.

How could she shamelessly share that with the castle?

No, she decided, his soft underbelly was safe with her.

Room spotless, she nodded to herself and moved onto the next.

…

“Lady Silverhead is here.” Miss Han said.

Tadius’ stomach dropped.

The council meeting had just started and it was to discuss the Silverheads themselves. Ella had not gone into much detail, merely mentioning the council wanted to make a gesture to reach out to the old and powerful family while ensuring their loyalty. Though the family had confirmed they’d received the pin from Lord Karl’s body, and were observing a period of mourning, there had been no other communication. Even Lord Andrew had not heard anything more from them.

With the courtiers and Ella occupied, Tadius was the only person who could receive the lady.

“I’ll receive her in the Tea Room until the Queen can adjourn the meeting.” Tadius decided.

He did not want to but figured as long as the Queen and the council were informed of the lady’s presence, they could decide how to proceed. He could make small talk with the mother of the man who had plotted to ensnare the Queen in a marriage and had threatened to rip out Tadius’ tongue.

He could walk the line between deferential, uncompromising in his support of the Queen’s judgement and compassionate to the Lady’s loss.

Probably.

He squared his shoulders, carefully ignored Miss Han’s pinched expression and Rachel’s wide eyes, and marched off. Luckily he was already wearing one of the fine doublets Ella had ordered for the trunk in her room. Tadius still had not grown used to the idea, nor the warmth it stirred in his heart.

As he walked over, he tried to clear his mind. He trusted that he would recall Rachel’s advice later - not having the nerve to write any of it down, even in code. Thankfully it had been fairly straightforward.

Instead he focused on all the reading and strategising with Lord Andrew he had done recently. Once the initial wave of insecurity had receded, Tadius’ confidence had stabilised. While he could not claim the sessions with the Protocol Master were pleasant exactly, Tadius had always relished a challenge. There was something to be said about having one’s knowledge and wits tested, especially when they were found to be satisfactory. Added to that, comparing notes on all the houses and hearing the Lord's own opinions on them was really invaluable to Tadius' own understanding of how to deal with them.

The only unfortunate thing was that they had not discussed the Silverheads yet. Then again, what would Lord Andrew’s advice for dealing with his own Lady be?

Anda was at the door to the Tea Room and looked him over, giving an approving nod. Biting back a sarcastic thanks, Tadius merely nodded back. He had received a few other noble houses since House Darlana and none had complained about him to the Queen nor Lord Andrew. 

It would only be for a few minutes. 

He was prepared.

“The Crown Consort, Master Tadius!” Anda announced.

Tadius forced himself to walk in.

The Lady was sitting alone on the couch, which was the first surprise. The Head of an old and powerful house usually travelled with an entourage. The second surprise was how aged the lady appeared. Tadius recalled the last time he had seen her, at the Queen’s coronation not even a year ago, and she had been energetic: the lines of her face shifting as she talked - or rather barked orders. Now, the lines appeared to have sunken into permanency and despite her perfect posture, there was an air of exhaustion that clung to her.

She was a grieving mother, Tadius reminded himself.

He bowed and she did not rise to greet him, as expected.

“My Lady Silverhead. It is an honour to-”

“So, you are the lover.” The woman’s voice was just as sharp as ever.

“That I am.” Tadius replied, keeping his feet through habit.

Her eyes swept over him once before flicking away. “Yes. They said you were a servant.”

The only downside of Queen Ella’s compassion was the softening of Tadius’ resilience. Time was he could stand for hours as nobles either sneered at him or ignored him completely. He called upon past experience to keep his expression still and reminded himself that in the lady’s presence, she would be in control every single moment.

“They also said you were a bore.”

Tadius blinked: that was new. At least, when the Prince had complained of his dullness, Tadius had taken it as a good sign. None of the other servants had ever claimed such a thing and no noble had bothered to form an opinion of him at all.

“I am sure they are right.” He agreed placidly.

The Lady huffed. “Evidently. How disappointing.”

Brushing past the insult, Tadius began. “The kitchen should be done with the morning pastri-”

The lady waved a negating hand. “Sit down, boy. Do not make me strain my neck.” She kept talking as he obeyed. “Ridiculous! Of all the men in the realm to claim as a lover.” Like a tutor, she tutted. “How feather-brained!”

“Or efficient.” Tadius was unable to stop himself from saying.

The Lady’s expression hardly changed but her eyes met his - calculating.

Tadius dared to explain. “Almost a hundred years past King Edran took lovers from the town when his wife was sick so he did not need to travel far.”

The Lady sniffed. “They should have come to him.”

“Alas, Castle Fever is something from which even kings suffer.”

The Lady conceded the point with her eyebrows. Then she refolded the handkerchief in her hands, saying. “Well, of course Her Grace has hardly travelled since her coronation, nor has she changed her court in any way. No ladies-in-waiting. Perhaps this was inevitable, no?”

“One imagines.” Tadius agreed.

“Hm.”

Tadius knew Lady Silverhead had a daughter roughly Ella’s age and from what he knew, could make a good option for lady-in-waiting. However, it was not his place to plant the idea or endorse it in any way.

Seeing that the lady was deliberately leaving a gap for him to elaborate, Tadius offered.

“Her Grace is young.” He said. “Wise beyond her years, yes, but also in possession of plenty of time to order the court as she sees fit.”

He could make some educated guesses as to her plans, but wouldn’t speak for the Queen.

Lady Silverhead did not comment, instead muttering to herself. “What am I doing, asking the lover such questions?”

Tadius held his tongue, calling upon years of practice to let the slight roll off his back.

Instead he began. “When finished with her council, I am sure the Queen will-”

“How long do you think it will be until she grows bored of you?”

Tadius froze, cursing himself even as he did so. His throat became dry and he struggled to keep his emotions from his face. However, underneath the fear was indignance.

Heart hammering, he bit back his first words and said carefully. “I am afraid, my lady, you mistake the Queen for one of the last royal line. She does not indulge in dalliances, nor whims.” He continued over whatever the lady wanted to say next. “Although young, she is not impetuous. I am confident her ladyship will agree once she has met with the Queen again.”

Lady Silverhead eyed him for a long moment before raising a brow. “Oh, you are, are you?”

“Yes.” He said plainly.

The Dowager assessed him once more before her expression twisted. “She seemed impetuous enough in the decision to execute my son.”

The Lady pronounced ‘execute’ with the same feeling as another might say ‘murder’. Tadius supposed to a mother those words were the same. Ella certainly felt strongly about the townsfolk burning her mother as a witch - an act the old laws had obligated them to do. 

Each coin has two sides.

“The evidence was presented in front of the court, as per the law.” Tadius said as unemotionally as he could. “And he was given the opportunity to confess and repent as the others did.” He debated whether to mention the goddess but ultimately decided against it. 

For certain the Lady would have already heard that part of the tale.

While looking sour, the lady did not look as though she would say anymore. If she had strong enough cause to challenge Ella’s decision she would be raising support for a coup, not complaining to a lowborn lover. Tadius wondered if she would dare criticise Ella's decision to her face.

Feeling he had shown enough unwavering support for his sovereign, Tadius offered tentatively. “I am sorry for your loss, my lady.”

Her eyes flashed. “Do not lie to your betters, boy.”

“Two truths can live together, can they not?” He asked, trusting her to grasp his meaning.

Indeed she settled, saying finally. “Your word is not the Crown’s.”

“No, it is not.” He agreed readily.

“Oh, do slow down!” The lady looked as if she might roll her eyes. “All your original ideas are so dizzying!”

Turning the implied criticism over in his mind, Tadius took a leap. “Oh, I dare not claim to have any original ideas, my lady.” He said sarcastically. “All of the thinking of this world is done by my betters.”

“Was that supposed to be humorous?” She asked the air to her side, as if addressing an invisible being.

“I am afraid I could not tell you.” Tadius jested again with a sanguine shrug.

The lady’s eyes snapped back to him, then relaxed as she sat back slightly. “You served on the council, they tell me.”

Hiding his confusion and repressing the urge to ask who ‘they’ were, Tadius let out a short breath as his left thumb pressed on his signet ring.

“In an unofficial capacity.” He said.

“In lieu of the idiot prince I presume.” The Lady all but drawled.

Tadius nodded.

She held his gaze steadily. “The good lords and ladies of the council do not suffer fools nor sycophants.”

Unless they are the sycophants, Tadius thought darkly as he remembered a Lord not-long dead who had kissed the ground the old King had walked on.

Unsure exactly what ‘they’ had said about Tadius’ presence, he decided on candor.

“Well, I rarely offered any opinions, my lady. I was mostly there to relate the wise decisions to the Prince.”

Lady Silverhead hummed. “I heard of your intervention in the grain debacle a few years past.”

It was Tadius’ turn to sit up. Why the hell would anyone bother to tell her about that? Why would Lady Silverhead be interested? That incident had nothing to do with her lands.

“What did you hear?” Tadius asked, too surprised to choose his words carefully.

“That your knowledge of the recent history of the area allowed the council to avoid further losses.”

The Golden Fields was a small farming region that produced the best quality grain for bread, and so it had provided grain to the Crown for decades. A few years past the crop had been not even half of the usual bounty and if the King’s demand for the little grain that had been produced had been heeded, the farmers would not have had enough to feed themselves. As Tadius had pointed out to the council, a series of storms the season before had caused a breakdown in the local infrastructure, making gold coins to individuals not entirely helpful. Instead, the council had ordered more grain from another area to make the King’s bread and sent people to do various things, including draining flooded roads, getting the mill and pig farm back up running, as well as establishing a new, unpolluted well. Since then, the area had recovered and resumed providing the King’s - now the Queen’s - grain.

The council had been aware of all the facts yet had not strung them together. To many of them, a natural disaster in a rural area was unfortunate but not worth remembering for long. No nobles had died after all.

It had been a rare occasion on which Tadius had felt compelled to speak up - especially as Lord Edoardo, advisor on agriculture, had been excused from that session due to sickness. Tadius remembered well the nose-wrinkle from Lord Andrew and the surprised eyes of Lady Siobhan. Lord Martin had frowned before agreeing. As far as Tadius had been concerned, that had been the extent of the council’s acknowledgement of his contributions. 

Evidently not.

Had someone told Lady Silverhead that anecdote at the time or recently? Who was her insider? While Lord Andrew was her vassal and in theory there to represent her interests, well, he hated Tadius. It was hardly likely he would have related that incident or he would have told it in such a way to show Tadius in a negative light. Tadius was under no illusion that the Lord’s recent interest in aiding him had anything to do with approval of Tadius as a person - it was purely to avoid any embarrassment for the Crown.

So, who?

Tadius had so many questions.

“You are surprised.” Lady Silverhead said, bringing Tadius back to the present moment.

“Her ladyship is perceptive.” He shot back without thought.

“More perceptive than you if you genuinely believed the council suffered your presence for so long out of obligation.”

Funny, that almost sounded like a compliment.

Ignoring it, Tadius bandied back. “In fairness the council did a lot to appease the old king.”

“And the new Queen?” Lady Silverhead’s sharp eyes blazed with intensity. “You say she is wise.”

“She is.”

“And she chose you as a lover.”

Supremely uncomfortable, Tadius weakly tried to deflect. “I cannot imagine the import of such a choice to her ladyship.”

“What better way to understand someone than to look at their choices?”

“With such wisdom I wonder why her ladyship never served on the council.”

“Serve that buffon?” Lady Silverhead scoffed. “Nay. I had my own lands to attend to.”

And numerous contacts on the council to represent your interests, Tadius noted in his mind.

“A family to raise.” The lady’s gaze fell to her lap.

“How are Lady Louise and Lord Jacob?” Tadius asked, referring to the remaining Silverhead children.

“Grieving.” The Head of the house replied sharply.

Scared, she did not say, yet Tadius read it on her face nonetheless.

“The Queen demands justice, always.” Tadius said slowly. “Yet she holds none responsible but those who act against her.”

Lady Silverhead tilted her head slightly but did not comment. Instead she repeated.

“You do not speak for the crown.”

“As imperceptive I may be in some areas, I know the Queen.” Tadius replied, uncaring of the relief and awe that seeped into his voice. “I thank the gods every day for sending her to save us.”

From the trolls and the old King.

Before the Lady could respond the door opened and Anda entered. 

“The Queen is ready to receive her ladyship, if she would follow me?”

Tadius and Lady Silverhead stood. Before Tadius could bid farewell, she held out her elbow.

“Lend me your strength, won’t you, Consort?”

Swallowing down his surprise, Tadius jumped to take her elbow and accompany her out. They did not talk as they walked to the Queen’s Reception Room. Tadius asked himself the lady’s purpose.

Did she wish to learn more about the Queen from Tadius’ gait? Something about the way he accompanied her?

Did she think a lowborn lover walked differently to a highborn one?

Yes, it had been a while since a lowborn lover had been officially declared but there was precedence.

Did she perceive Tadius as a threat somehow? He could not see the reasoning if yes. If anything he had less power and influence now he was off the council. 

They arrived before he could puzzle out her reasoning.

As Anda knocked to announce the lady, she asked Tadius. “Have you ever been to the Silverhead Estate?”

“Alas, I have not had the privilege.”

“Hm.” She assessed him another time with her eyes as she moved away.

Anda came out again to wave the lady in and Tadius bowed. With one last glance, she swept in.

Feeling Anda’s gaze on him, Tadius met his eyes and they exchanged a shrug.

What had that been?

Chapter Text

Queen Ella clasped her hands together as she waited for the Lady Silverhead…whose son she had executed. Although Ella did not regret her judgement, she did regret it needed to happen. She knew the pain of losing family. 

From what Tadius and the council had told her, Lady Silverhead was a hard, intelligent woman who had acted as the head of the Silverheads since her husband’s death years before. Her family was powerful and needed to remain loyal to the crown for peace to continue in the realm. Lord Andrew had sworn most strongly that none of the rest of the House had been aware of Lord Karl’s scheme and that their fealty was still with the Crown. While Ella did not doubt his sincerity, she was not sure how much to believe House Silverhead’s words.

She did not know them after all.

Many ideas had been proposed in the meeting but they had settled on one which did not single the Silverheads out in particular while reassuring the house, and by extension the court, of their continued place.

Lady Silverhead came in after Anda announced her. To Ella, she looked tired - too many nights of too little sleep that even powder could not hide. Still, she held herself proudly even as she curtseyed.

“Your Grace.” The Lady’s eyes flicked up to Ella’s crown, then around the various pieces of regalia before settling on the ground.

“My lady, how goes it?”

Stupid question, Ella chastised herself, trying not to show her frustration at herself on her face.

Lady Silverhead did not miss a beat, looking up. “Well, given the circumstances.”

Thankful, Ella waved to the chaise. “Please, sit.”

They sat and Lady Silverhead politely declined tea. There was not anything of Lord Karl in the lady’s face, Ella thought in surprise. She had not known she was looking for a resemblance until she found none.

“I was just conversing with your lover.” The lady said before Ella could broach another subject.

“Indeed?” Ella asked, trying to discreetly wet her suddenly dry throat.

“An interesting man.” The Lady said, eyes resting on Ella’s face.

Unsure what the lady meant by the adjective, Ella said cautiously. “I think so too.”

“Much has been said about him by various ladies,” the lady leaned in slightly as she went on, “though between us I fear the average lady does not possess sound judgement of character.”

“What has been said?”

“I dare not name names, her Grace understands, but the general consensus is that your lover is a pretty face and nothing more.”

That was so far from Ella’s view of Tadius that she was genuinely speechless for a moment.

“They forget, of course,” the lady continued with a hint of scorn, “that not all conversation in the world revolves around needlework and whose babies are most bonny.”

“You disagree with the consensus.” Ella said slowly, trying to parse the woman’s true opinion.

“Your Grace will forgive my self-flattery if I say I am a good judge of character,” the lady related primly, then with a gleam in her eye continued, “and a man with a tongue that fierce could never be a bore.”

A fierce tongue, especially in the presence of polite company, did not sound like Tadius. Pushing down the unease swirling in her stomach, Ella offered. “He did not offend you, I hope.”

“No, your Grace.” Lady Silverhead shook her head. “He merely lit any doubts about your character on fire.” 

Ella thought she saw a twitch of the lady’s lips - a smile?

“Many of our kind mistake gold for power,” Lady Silverhead continued, “whilst ‘tis true that one can buy a great many things with that, true loyalty is not won by anything as cold as pressed coins or cut jewels.”

Ella rolled the lady’s words around her head a moment before managing a vague: “I agree.”

Was that what the lady meant by ‘fierce tongue’ and ‘lighting doubts on fire’? Tadius’ loyalty to her?

“Your lover spoke of the crown’s mercy.” The Lady’s voice began to creak ever so slightly. “He said your Grace only holds ill-deeds against those who perpetrate them.”

“He was correct.” Ella said plainly.

Lady Silverhead nodded, relief flickering over her features. She sat forward in her seat. “Still, I must apologise on behalf of my house. My so- the Lord Karl’s actions were unknownst to us and we reject them on the strongest terms.”

That certainly sounded sincere to Ella’s ears. She looked intently into the lady’s eyes and did not feel the prickle on the back of her neck like she had with Karl. Not sure of the appropriate response, Ella merely nodded in acknowledgement.

“His name has been struck from the house records, your Grace.” Lady Silverhead continued. “With time, he will be forgotten and the Silverheads will work to regain their standing in the Crown’s esteem.”

The lady’s voice had not wavered, yet Ella imagined she could still hear the pain.

Ella’s father had told her once about expunging family members from noble houses and how the House of Ashmore had never done so.

Well, that of which we know, he had added with his tongue in his cheek.

“Yes, well, with that in mind,” Ella said briskly, “the council and I have decided to hold a Ball - a celebration of the first year of my rule.”

The lady bowed her head. 

“We wish for your house to join mine on the high table.”

As she was watching closely, Ella caught the flash of an emotion over the lady’s face.

“A true honour.” She said slowly. “Our deepest thanks to her Grace.”

“There will be places for yourself and another family member. The other great houses will also be present.”

“Of course, your Grace. This is welcome news indeed.” The lady hesitated, then added quietly. “If I may, I have a daughter roughly her Grace’s age. Perhaps your Grace will find her good company.”

Lord Andrew had mentioned the daughter and never having met her, Ella had no opinion on the matter - save for resenting needing a lady-in-waiting at all. Perhaps it would be prudent to keep a close eye on the house, or maybe it was folly to invite them closer to her. Ella wasn’t sure.

In response she merely inclined her head and said. “I look forward to making her acquaintance.”

“Well, I dare not take too much of her Grace’s time.” The lady said, clearly weary.

Ella rose. “Your visit is appreciated, my lady, and your house is just as welcome as any other to visit me.”

She held out her hand.

Lady Silverhead took it and kissed the ring, adding. “And to serve.”

“And to serve.” Ella agreed.

“My Queen.” Lady Silverhead curtseyed and left.

Once alone, Ella let out a long breath. She felt jittery.

That had been a curious encounter. Not the tempest Ella had been fearing and if one had been caught off-guard by a family member’s act of treason there was surely no better way to go about asking forgiveness from the Monarch. Yet… Ella probed her heart. Was the residual hurt and uncertainty from Lord Karl’s betrayal influencing her feeling? Or was the unease she felt about the situation to do with Lady Silverhead herself?

Her crown felt heavy suddenly.

Anda poked his head in. “Do you need anything, your Grace?”

Unashamed, Ella asked. “Is Tadius around?”

Anda glanced over his shoulder and then turned back with a small grin.

“Send him in.” Ella ordered.

Anda straightened and bowed. “The Crown Consort for you, your Grace.”

Letting out a shaky breath, Ella inclined her head. Her nerves settled even more when Tadius came in.

He bowed, voice deep and faux-referential. “Your Grace.”

“Sit down, you absurd man!” Ella chastised through a laugh.

“What?” Tadius asked as he did so. “This is the Royal Reception room! One must be on their best behaviour here!”

“Well perhaps you should have met Lady Silverhead here instead.” Ella said as she sat on the couch across from him.

Tadius tensed but Ella held up a hand before he could speak.

“At ease, I believe whatever you said impressed her.”

Tadius stared. “Indeed?”

“Indeed.” Ella smiled.

She was glad the head of a powerful house did not seem poised to strike against the crown but also happy such a noblewoman appeared to like Tadius. It was hard to grasp the rumblings of the nobility without any insiders - no one liked to gossip about each other to the Queen unless they were willing to risk appearing petty.

A pretty face and nothing more? Preposterous!

“What did you think?” He asked.

Ella related her impression of the lady’s intentions, though she confessed they were still fresh. Eagerly, she returned the question.

Tadius frowned lightly. “I am not sure. She seemed concerned for the wellbeing of her house and though she was critical of your decisions, she did not seem to question your authority.”

“Critical?”

“She may have described your decision to execute Lord Karl as ‘impetuous’.”

Interesting. Understandable she may feel that way, Ella reflected.

“Hm. She betrayed none of that opinion to me.” 

“She is a wise woman who has been leading her house longer than either of us have been alive.” Tadius pointed out. “Though she hated the Old King, she never fell out of favour with him.”

He frowned. “Well, she implied she hated him.”

Ella could not think of anything much to say in response. She did not want to ask the burning question, but pushed on.

After explaining the lady’s pledge on behalf of her house, Ella asked. “What do you think of her intentions? Is her house truly loyal to me?”

Tadius let out a long breath. “In truth, I could not say.” He smiled a little ruefully. “Perhaps our only course is to wait and see.”

Ella nodded.

“So, the council gave you a good enough suggestion of how to restore balance?” Tadius asked after a moment of quiet.

“A ball.”

“Ah.”

“With the Silverheads at the high table among the other great houses.”

Tadius nodded and said neutrally. “An apt suggestion.”

Ella cocked her head. “What would you have put forward? Anything similar?”

“Something shorter.” He looked like he was holding back a sigh. “Balls always seem to go on for days.”

Ella hummed. “Well, it depends on the company I have found.”

“What was the best one you’ve ever attended?” Tadius tilted his head in curiosity.

“Any one of the Grizzwald’s to celebrate the Summer Festivals.” A smile played on Ella’s lips as she remembered. “They had acrobats and travelling bands and even fireworks one year.” 

“What mischief would you get up to?”

“Mischief? Me?” Ella protested, relaxing into the topic.

At Tadius’ smile she relented, grinning herself. “It depended on how much honey wine we had stolen.”

“Honey wine?”

“You have never tried it? We shall have to order some for the ball. In essence, it is a sweet drink which resembles white wine whilst being more suited to children’s stomachs.”

“Like apple juice or grape juice with a dash of vinegar.” At Ella’s quizzical look, Tadius explained. “It was how the old Steward managed to convince the Prince he did not like wine when he started requesting it as a boy.”

He smiled a little then shook himself. “So, the ball…”

“Yes, it will be at the end of the next moon’s turn.”

“Ah, the anniversary of your coronation. Appropriate.”

Giving in to a sigh, Ella said. “Hard to believe it’s been a whole year.”

“Does it still feel strange?”

She considered. “Yes. Perhaps less so than at first. And some things have become routine. Presiding over a ball though…”

“Well, you have not had any practice.” Tadius supplied reasonably.

Ella hummed and then asked. “How many balls have you presided over?”

Tadius pressed his lips together for some reason, hand coming up to his mouth.

Confused, Ella asked. “Well, you fulfilled duties held by the Prince, did you not?” A small sound escaped him and Ella realised he was stifling a laugh.

Confusion melting into annoyance, she narrowed her eyes. “It is not a ridiculous question.”

“Please, my Queen,” Tadius held out his hands, lips still quivering, “I was not laughing at you.”

“Hm.” Ella knew that and yet she held onto the kernel of resentment.

Her nerves had not completely recovered from the meeting with Lady Silverhead.

Tadius slipped off his chair and fell to one knee, hands clasped in a begging pose. “My wise and beautiful queen!”

Ella fought to control her expression for a different reason then.

“Could you find it in your heart to forgive my foolishness? My ungratefulness!”

“Ungratefulness?” She asked.

“Why, I should be kissing your feet at every opportunity!” He cried like a bad actor in a tragedy.

Ella clamped her mouth shut to stifle the giggles.

“Singing your praises!”

She recovered enough of her composure to protest. “Please, do not! I have heard you sing.”

His arms waved erratically. “Making grand statues in homage to your beauty and grace.”

“Oh, can you make a statue?”

Tadius corrected himself dutifully. “Teaching myself sculpting in order to-”

“Cease! Cease!” It was Ella’s turn to wave her arms. “I forgive you, you ridiculous thing!”

Tadius gave up his faux-pained expression, grinning winningly, and Ella gave up fighting her own smile. He took her left hand and kissed the Ashmore family ring.

“No, I have not presided over any balls, but I will be here,” he squeezed the hand, “however you need me.”

Heart swelling, Ella leaned down and kissed him. She must never forget how lucky she was. Their lips held still together a moment as Ella relaxed. Then she found herself deepening the kiss.

“Your Grace.” Tadius murmured against her lips.

“Ella.” She insisted, hands on his shoulders pulling him in closer.

“Ella,” his hands found her neck and cheek as he knelt up, “your crown.”

“Hang the crown!” She kissed down to his jaw.

“Officially-” He began.

“You’re,” she said between kisses, “officially, mine.”

Pulling back, she stared into his eyes. Suddenly she needed to hear it outloud. “Are you not?”

“Yes.” He breathed.

“Crown or no crown.”

“Crown or no crown.” He repeated dazedly, eyes darting over her face.

“What are you thinking?” She asked, cupping his cheek.

He leant into her touch. “How lucky I am.”

Before Ella could react there was a disturbance outside: loud voices. Ella and Tadius turned their heads to the door just as it flung open and Crumb burst inside.

His fur was bristling and his eyes were wide.

“Crumb?” Ella asked. “Wha-”

“Congratulations!” 

…

Crumb was overjoyed. 

He had been so worried that Queen Ella and Master Tadius’ courtship had not been going well. They both had seemed happy but Crumb had heard whispers. The servants talked about how the pair did not spend that much time together - or at least less than the Old King’s lovers used to. Meanwhile some of the courtiers and other nobles who had visited wondered out loud how much time the Queen would waste on a lowborn lover before upgrading to “one of quality” - whatever that meant.

Crumb knew he sometimes missed important details of conversations or lacked the social knowledge to understand all of the nuance but he knew enough to realise not many people were happy.

Yinko had seemed eager to help but Miss Sun had been reluctant. She loved Master Tadius, Crumb knew, as did most of the castle staff, so her doubt must have been from concern. He had not realised there were sensible reasons for the pair not to marry that a serious person like Sun would think of. Added to that Sir Hop had not been willing to even discuss the idea. He had asked about Crumb’s dejected mood of late, yet Crumb had not had the heart to explain he was still thinking of what his master had previously bade him to put aside.

In all, Crumb had been feeling a little crestfallen.

So when he had woken from a nap in the Reception Room wall to see Master Tadius on one knee in front of the Queen, he had remembered what Sir Hop had told him of the courtship procedure and had not been able to contain his excitement. 

He had rushed around to the main door and pushed his way past the knights there, beyond eager to congratulate the happy couple.

The Queen and Tadius both blinked at him after his announcement.

“For what?” Queen Ella asked slowly.

Crumb looked between the confused couple, suddenly unsure. “Your marriage?”

“Marriage?” Ella asked, letting go of Tadius’ hand.

Crumb smiled hopefully. The couple shared a look before the Queen took in a deep breath.

“Crumb, why do you think I am getting married?”

“Because Master Tadius proposed! I saw!”

“How?”

Crumb felt a growing disapproval in his lady and suddenly wondered if perhaps he had been doing something wrong. Master Tadius stood a little stiffly and walked to the left side of the room.

“Oh!” He exclaimed. “The crawlspace! I’d forgotten that it was there.”

With a warning glance at Crumb, Ella joined Tadius in looking at one of the wood panels. Tadius crouched down and fiddled with something. A click and then the panel swung open to reveal the hole Crumb had been sleeping in.

“You were spying on us?” Queen Ella asked incredulously.

“No! Just resting my eyes! I swear!”

“You have a room all to yourself - why would you sleep here?” The Queen pointed out.

“It’s cosier!”

Ella looked at the hole doubtfully. 

“What else have you heard while in here?” Tadius asked, head tilted in interest.

“Nothing! I just woke up and saw you proposing!”

“He wasn’t proposing, Crumb!” The Queen snapped.

Crumb’s tail drooped to the floor. He looked at Master Tadius who stared calmly back.

“But-”

“You must not spy on people. It’s-” Queen Ella stopped short, frowning in thought.

“Not fair to them.” Master Tadius supplied.

“Yes.” The Queen nodded. 

She lifted up the skirts of her dress to crouch level with Crumb.

More softly, she asked. “Do you understand?”

Crumb resisted the urge to pout, hearing Sir Hop’s unsympathetic voice in his head.

Instead he asked anxiously. “What if I’m just walking in the corridor and I hear people talking?”

“That’s fine.” His Queen smiled. “Just try not to listen.”

“How good is your hearing?” Tadius asked.

Crumb considered. “I do not know.”

“If you were at one end of a corridor, how far along could you hear a whisper?”

“A whisper? The other side. Less if they’re in a room.”

“You can hear through walls?” Tadius asked, brows raising.

“Through gaps in walls.” 

“Oh, the castle must always be noisy for you.” The Queen said, stroking over Crumb’s forehead.

He basked in the touch a moment before replying. “Some times are very quiet, like the prayer hour, or this room is usually fine.”

Ella smiled down at him. “Which is why you chose it to sleep in.”

Crumb confirmed it with a smile.

“Crumb,” Master Tadius began, “what about a room of people talking. Could you focus and hear just one person?”

Crumb looked up at him, intrigued. “I’m not sure. Why?”

“Yes, why?” The Queen echoed, brow wrinkled a little.

“Well, if her Grace wished to keep a closer eye - or ear - on any of the guests at the ball-”

“No.” The Queen interrupted.

The two looked at each other for a long moment.

When neither spoke, Crumb asked. “There is going to be a ball?”

“Yes.” The Queen said, “in which no spying will take place.”

“Will it be like the last one?” Crumb asked nervously.

He hadn’t liked that one.

“No.” Queen Ella reassured. “Because Tadius is going to plan it.”

“He will?” Tadius asked.

Queen Ella shot him a hard look. “And he’ll help me host it too.”

“Is it for your wedding?” Crumb asked.

With a half-sigh and half-laugh, Ella asked. “Why do you think we are getting married?”

Crumb waved his arms at them both.

“The Queen has many years before she needs to choose a Prince Consort.” Master Tadius said.

That was not a reason why she could not choose Tadius then, but Crumb realised they were not going to give him a good reason for that. So he gave up. For the moment.

“So, what is the ball for?”

Groaning a little as she climbed to her feet, Ella ignored Tadius’ offered hand and instead explained to Crumb.

“To celebrate the anniversary of my coronation.”

“Oh, alright. Are you excited?”

“Ecstatic.” Ella said flatly.

Tadius stood too.

“Why don’t you take Crumb to talk to Sir Hop about security for the event?” Ella suggested.

Tadius glanced down at Crumb before looking up again. “Now?”

“No time like the present.”

Tadius bowed. “Your Grace.” He looked to Crumb. “Come.”

Crumb bowed to Ella as well before joining Tadius in walking to the door. But before they reached it, Tadius turned back suddenly.

“My Queen!” He hesitated.

Ella’s eyes were wide as she listened.

“Hosting is traditionally performed by a Prince Consort.”

Brows settling into a neutral expression, Ella replied. “Well, seeing as I don’t have one of those, you’ll do for now. No?”

After a small hesitation, Tadius bowed deeply and left with Crumb. They lingered in the corridor, Crumb noting the guards he had muscled his way past were looking at them curiously.

“Sir Hop is on the ramparts.” Crumb reported.

“Of course he is.” Tadius muttered under his breath.

Sensing Master Tadius was in a bad mood, Crumb didn’t ask what he meant by that. He was feeling out-of-sorts himself from the earlier conversation. It seemed like his dream of his Queen finding happiness with Tadius was slipping away.

They walked up to the North Tower in silence until Master Tadius asked.

“Can you hear any conversations now?”

Crumb, who had heard voices down the corridor a minute before, shook his head.

Another few steps up and then Tadius asked. “Do you like living in the castle?”

Crumb thought about his life in the swamp before he’d felt the Fae Queen’s touch. It was difficult as he had not paid much attention to anything but where his next bit of cheese was coming from - nowhere, usually. Without much of a frame of reference, Crumb shrugged.

“It’s very big.”

“Too big?”

Crumb considered. “There are a lot of steps. And too many doors!”

“Too many doors?”

“I can’t open all of them.” Crumb admitted, face heating a little.

“Oh. Well, I’m sorry to hear that.” Tadius said, breath slightly heavy from the climb. “That must be frustrating.”

“It is!” Crumb agreed, waving his hands a little through the validation.

Tadius wiped his brow and asked. “Are there any other frustrations you have?”

Crumb bit his lip. He did not want to put Master Tadius back into a bad mood. “Sometimes people do not say what they mean.”

Tadius uttered what could have been a laugh or a heavy breath. “Isn’t that the truth spoken plain?”

Their ascent was slower now, the steps narrower and Crumb could hear the wind whistling outside. He wasn’t as tired as the man, but did not hurry him along. Then a thought struck Crumb. One last attempt.

“Master Tadius?”

“Hm?”

“Why won’t you propose to the Queen?”

Master Tadius stopped walking. Crumb peered up at him, unable to really see his expression in the gloom. Letting out a long sigh, Master Tadius sat on the stairs and patted the stair next to him. Crumb joined him, repressing a shiver at the cold stone.

“What do you know of the nobility?” Tadius asked.

“They’re rich.” Crumb replied. “And they have a lot of land.” He thought of Lord Andrew. “And they can be mean.” He shrugged.

“That’s a good start.” Tadius said. “Do you know how they came to be?”

“No. Haven’t they always been there?”

“Long ago, the First Queen appointed her most trusted friends to be nobles, lords, ladies, knights, dukes…They were to help her rule and in recompense for their service they would receive lands and riches. On their lands the serfs worked to grow the food and peasants built the castles and paved the roads and did a thousand other things. In return for their work they were protected from the elements, from dark magic, monsters.” 

Crumb shuddered at the memory of the trolls.

“Everyone in our world has a place. Has a role. We must fulfil our roles to ensure the peace of the realm. Working outside our purpose threatens chaos.” 

Tadius’ voice hardened. “It is part of the reason why Lord Karl had to be punished so. He tried not only to hurt the queen but to take the crown for himself. That was not his to take.”

Crumb scowled at the reminder of the traitor. He understood what Master Tadius was saying and yet…

“But you proposing to the Queen could not be as bad as what Lord Karl did!”

Tadius coughed. “Uh, no. Not as bad as that. However, the reaction from the nobility…some of them would feel the order of things was being threatened. They would be outraged and - let us not deny it - scared that a lowly servant would dare to ask.”

Crumb thought about some of the complaints he’d heard of Tadius as a lover. It was easy to imagine them saying worse things about him if he were to become the Queen’s husband.

It made sense, Crumb thought. But he still did not like it.

He said as much.

Tadius smiled down at him. “You have a good heart.”

Not sure how to respond, Crumb looked down at his tiny hands for a moment, then back up again. 

“I am sorry about the training.”

Tadius’ expression shifted and then slackened in realisation. “Oh! You…for me?”

“So you could fight Sir Hop-A-Lot after you proposed.”

Tadius’ brows pinched together in an expression Crumb couldn’t quite read. Slowly, Tadius put a hand on Crumb’s shoulder. It was heavy but not in a bad way.

“You do not need to feel bad about that, Crumb.” Tadius said gently. “You were trying to be helpful.”

Banging his feet together idly, Crumb let the words sink in. He felt a little better. Still…

“I wish I could do something really helpful like…change the rules or make the nobles see how much you and the Queen love each other.”

Tadius’ hand on his shoulder squeezed briefly before letting go. They sat there for another moment, before Tadius’ voice brightened.

“Actually, there is something I could use your help with.”

Crumb leapt to his feet, almost at eye-level with Tadius.

“Oh? Yes! Tell me!”

“Well, we’re thinking the Queen needs some more friends, noble friends, and at the Ball there will be lots of people she could make friends with. But she’ll need help.”

“What can I do?”

“Talk to people, get to know them, watch how they look at the Queen when she can’t see them. Sir Hop-A-Lot will probably be doing that as well, but for security reasons.”

“And then I will tell the Queen who I think will make a good friend? I can do that!”

Tadius smiled. “Good to hear it.” 

He tapped his knees and stood. Together they finished walking up the steps to the ramparts. Sir Hop was not surprised to see them, though his eyes narrowed when he heard of the ball.

“We can find the Queen new friends!” Crumb cried excitedly.

“Or enemies.” Sir Hop said.

Crumb had not considered that.

“As I will be organising the event, we will need to liaise with regards to security.” Master Tadius announced.

Sir Hop’s eyes narrowed even more. 

“We all want this to be as safe as possible.” Tadius continued.

“And who will help the Queen host?” Sir Hop asked.

Tadius hesitated before confirming. “The Queen has requested I do that.”

Sir Hop scoffed.

“She doesn’t have a husband yet.” Crumb added.

“A ball is a perfect place to lay the groundwork to find one.” Tadius said pointedly to Sir Hop, who harrumphed.

“I’ll need to contract more knights.” Sir Hop said. “Enough to secure all the passageways.”

Tadius nodded, taking out his little pocketbook and a pencil to make notes. Crumb did not have much to add as the men talked so his mind began to wonder.

He imagined fine lords and ladies dancing and laughing together, the Queen in the middle of the throng, smiling widely. Crumb led someone over to the Queen who made her laugh and held her when she was sad and…

Told her Tadius would make an excellent husband.

Yes! Crumb realised. Now that was a plan!

Chapter Text

“Oh, Master Tadius!” Lady Siobhan called.

Tadius turned from where he’d been talking to the Steward and watched the lady gliding between the disarray of tables, chairs and servants in the Great Hall. Preparations for the ball were in full swing and the castle felt alive with anticipation. For two days Tadius had been too busy to think about much more than guest lists, table arrangements and food orders - which had suited him. There were a few things he did not want to think about yet.

Both Tadius and Miss Han bowed their heads as the lady reached them.

“If you have a moment I must discuss the guest list with you!” She said, a tension in her voice just apparent through the overall light tone.

“Of course.” Tadius answered. Then he turned to Miss Han to finish their discussion on which style of silver cutlery to use. “I defer to your judgement.”

She nodded and watched as Tadius and Lady Siobhan walked away.

“I wanted to verify if House Stone was seated by House Thornbush for the dinner.” Lady Siobhan began as they negotiated their way out of the hall.

“They are.” Tadius confirmed, not needing to consult the scroll in his hand because the whole damn thing was burned into his brain.

“Well, that won’t do if the Lord Stone’s lover is invited!” The lady leaned in and lowered her voice. “Since he was Lady Thornbush’s first.”

Not having heard that, Tadius fought to keep his eyebrows down. “Oh?”

He only knew Darren Hardings - a very successful silk merchant - had grown up in the Gardens, the seat of House Thornbush and had sustained an injury a year earlier which had necessitated a lengthy stay on land. He had stayed most of that time with House Stone. Previously Tadius had not asked himself if that choice of location had been significant.

“Yes!” Siobhan warmed to the topic. “It was quite a surprise because by all accounts Elizabeth and Darren seemed inseparable when they were children! I did not know either of them well, but I have it on good authority they stayed in contact as he travelled and had taken to laying with each other after Elizabeth’s first marriage failed.”

She paused and tilted her head in a gesture as if to say ‘why not?’. Tadius had no opinion of the business as all of that had happened ten years before and he had been concerned with other things. 

“They fell out over something and while attending a Mountshead ball Master Darren was snapped up by Lord Stone.” The Lady continued.

“Before or after his injury?”

Lady Siobhan frowned in thought. “Oh, good question. I cannot remember.” She returned to the point of interest. “Still, it shook the whole Gardens! And Martin was not pleased, seeing as it was his vassal’s lover that Lord Stone had poached!”

“I imagine not.” Tadius commented absently, mind already searching for a solution.

“Here.” He led the lady to a decorative table to the side of the corridor.

He spread out the scroll. The pair looked at it for a moment before speaking in an exchange so fast it felt like they were sharing the same brain.

“Perhaps-”

“A switch with-”

“-and them over there-”

“-replacing this house-”

“-so it looks like this.”

“Yes!” Lady Siobhan exclaimed, looking at the arrow marks on the parchment.

They straightened, looking at each other. Lady Siobhan smiled and Tadius relaxed his mouth enough for a gentle bend. He felt a burst of warmth in his breast and took a moment to be thankful for the lady’s seeming support.

“I’ll arrange it.” Tadius said, warmth fading into cool anxiety.

There was a lot still to arrange.

“Good. How is it all coming along?”

Mouth tightening again, Tadius allowed himself a short sigh. “Progress is being made.”

“It is quite an undertaking.” The lady offered sympathetically. “Miss Han has been assisting you?”

“Of course. She has been invaluable.”

The lady regarded him for a beat then ventured. “Well, if you have any questions regarding noble matters, I would be happy to provide what help I can.”

Tadius hesitated. “Oh. Well, my lady, that is a generous offer.”

“No trouble!” She insisted. Then, glancing around to check no one was listening, Siobhan leaned in. “We all want this ball to go well. So I insist you use me if you need.”

Fighting a blush, Tadius bowed. “Thank you.”

“So...” She smiled, eyes sparkling.

Seeing no reason for pride, Tadius asked. “So, perhaps you could check over the plan.”

“Oh well, if you want!” The lady declared, already reaching for it.

They spent a productive time discussing the arrangements as well as swapping recent developments in court relationships they had heard.

“Well, I thank you most fervently, my lady.” Tadius said as the conversation ran dry and the plan was configured to their satisfaction.

The Lady smiled. “Please, never hesitate to call on my aid. Especially for this ball.”

Tadius bowed and watched her go up the stairs. He had always liked Lady Siobhan - she often reminded him of a kindly grandmother. Perhaps she did not always fully grasp what was being discussed, but her knowledge was vast and she never failed to add useful suggestions for any problem, even those outside of her expertise. After that conversation, he liked her even more.

Before he could think of what he needed to do next, shouting caught his attention. He went to the main entrance and drew level with an usher half in the doorway.

“What is it?” He asked in a low voice.

The usher, Halima, nodded down the steps where a furious person was waving their arms at a pair of knights who seemed to be barring their way. Tadius shuffled to the side to get a better view and blinked.

“Thought they were gone for good.” Halima muttered.

“I did too.” Tadius muttered back before stepping forward, calling as he descended the stairs. “Sir Barone!”

The knights turned, letting Kendall the Bard peak through. Though as finely dressed as they always were, their hat was looking worse for wear and their beard was unkept.

“Pray, sirs, what is the trouble?” Tadius asked.

While Kendall had left the castle in the wake of the Prince and Old King’s deaths, they had not been blacklisted.

“Tadius!” Kendall cried before Sir Barone could speak. “Good, sweet, Tadius!”

“This person has no business in the castle anymore.” Sir Barone said to Tadius, tone sharp.

“Poppycock!” Kendal harrumped. “I have long been a friend to the castle - not the royals!” They interrupted Barone’s attempt to speak. “The castle itself, sir!”

“Kendall.” Tadius said firmly. “None deny your connection to the castle.”

Kendall waved a vindicated hand in Tadius’ direction.

“However, the Queen has contracted the service of Butsaya the Bard for events she holds in said castle.”

Kendall blinked, a moment of pure surprise, before their expression twisted. “Butsaya? I thought you were holding a ball - not a wake!”

It was true that Butsaya’s normal repertoire was more sedate that Kendall’s but that suited Tadius’ taste anyway. Not that he was going to admit that to anyone - least of all Kendall. Tadius saw the knights rolling their eyes and spoke quickly lest they lose their patience.

“Miss Butsaya has been serving the Queen very successfully since the first function.”

“And while I have no doubts about that, I’m back now.” Kendall smiled before bowing deeply. “And I am more than free and willing to perform at this grand ball.”

Tadius’ suspicion as to why they had returned at that moment in time was confirmed and he nodded to himself.

“Is it not considered bad etiquette to attempt to undercut another bard at their regular work?” He asked.

Kendall laughed. “Tadius! My good man! Who said anything about undercutting?”

“You are not offering your services at a discount?” Tadius asked, mostly teasing.

Kendall chuckled and shifted on their feet, wincing. Come to think of it, they did look tired. Depending on where Kendall had been travelling, they could have useful gossip of their own to share. Tadius made a note to ask once they’d settled back in - and he had a spare moment himself. Added to that, even Tadius could not deny Kendall was an entertaining person to have around.

Tadius sighed. “If you promise to give up on usurping Butsaya’s appointment at the ball, you could stay for a while. The council members are here-”

Kendall’s eyes lit up. “Oh, Lady Siobhan loves my songs!” They limped forward and hugged Tadius. “You are my favourite servant. ‘The best around’, I’ve always said it!”

“Thanks.” Tadius drawled, holding still in the bard’s eager embrace like a beleaguered cat with an affectionate toddler.

He caught Sir Barone’s eye over the bard’s shoulder and snorting, Sir Barone nudged his companion to go back to their posts.

Tadius patted Kendall’s back. “Come on, let’s see if your old room is still available.”

Pulling back, the bard beamed and launched into a ditty about a prince’s hospitality to a fae in disguise unleashing chaos but also good fortune on said prince’s castle.

Tadius couldn’t help his laugh.

Much later, Tadius staggered into his new rooms, just making it to the bed. He fell face-first in an indulgent fit of laziness, bouncing off the mattress a little.

Head swirling with names and orders and times of arrivals and all the minute details, he took a long moment to notice the slip of paper under his cheek. He took in a deep breath and smelled Ella.

His lover’s scent giving him energy, Tadius pushed himself up and took the missive over to the window where there was just enough moonlight to make out the words.

Tadius,

It’s been too long. If you wish it, come up tonight.

I miss you,

Ella

Tadius smiled tiredly: an unassuming invite but still intimate. He could almost hear her saying the words and closed his eyes for a moment. He missed her too.

It turned out two days and nights were too long a time to spend apart.

Without any more delay he went upstairs. The knights outside the Queen’s rooms did not challenge him and given the late hour he did not bother to knock. Indeed the main room was quiet and dark. He knocked on the bedchamber door, however.

No answer. 

Tadius went in, finding a single candle burning and the drapes partly pulled back.

His heart clenched. She had been serious. 

Ella appeared to be asleep so Tadius quickly changed, blew out the candle and slipped in beside her. 

When she stirred he whispered. “It’s me.”

“Tadius.” She slurred, brow crinkling.

Tadius kissed it, holding back a laugh as her hand flailed, trying to find him while her eyes remained shut.

He took her hand in his own, kissing the back. “Go back to sleep.”

“Missed you.” She mumbled.

Shifting closer, Tadius wiggled his right arm under her pillow and felt warmer as she unconsciously tangled a hand in his nightshirt. Their legs wove together and Tadius gave into his urge to yawn.

“Missed you too.” He murmured at the end of it.

She grunted something incoherent that nonetheless made him smile.

He closed his eyes and let the soft breaths of his lady love lull him into sleep.

…

Ella didn't think she’d ever tire of watching Tadius sleep.

She had spent the first year of her rule relishing Tadius’ seemingly endless energy so that morning she had woken free of the flowers’ influence, the sight of Tadius in sleep had been such a rarity. Yet, she had discovered, repeat sightings of Tadius breathing deeply with his eyes closed had not lost any appeal.

Even in the dim light of the room - moonlight struggling to reach through the partly-open drapes - his relaxed features drew her eye.

Holding in a sigh, Ella tried to ignore the headache with which she’d jerked awake. The image of innocents screaming as they writhed in flames summoned by Ella’s starlit hands lingered in her mind. Her own voice laughing cruelly echoed still.

Once she’d recovered her breath she thought to be glad she had not woken her lover. A little disappointed too, she could not deny, but mostly glad. Ella did not want Tadius to never get a good night’s sleep in her bed. He would not complain, but she would still feel bad.

So when he shifted, she forced her eyes away. Her heart had settled from the nightmare but her 

head still ached. Taking deep breaths, she tried to calm her mind.

I am not her. She thought. I will not be her.

It did not work.

Still feeling as stiff as a board, Ella gave up on sleep and eased off the bed. She slipped on her robe and padded out to the main room. Too restless for any work, she headed for the balcony. It was not a warm night by any means but not frigid either. She opened the door and stood at the threshold, breathing in the crisp night air. A weak wind blew, but otherwise all was peaceful. She had spent enough nights stood there that the dark shapes she could see were familiar rather than disconcerting.

Two days previous, still unsettled by her meeting with Lady Silverhead and seeing the lady’s grief over her executed son, Tadius’ suggestion that Crumb eavesdrop on ball guests had summoned a vision in Ella's mind of herself as a tyrant: spying on her subjects, inventing crimes they had done through her close surveillance and punishing them as she had by the old oak. An overreaction, Ella told herself yet could not shake. 

Over the following days, Ella realised she had a tangled knot of emotions when she thought of the judgments in the woods; doubt being one part of said knot. It was not that she thought her judgements had been wrong - the fae queen’s power had helped her see the truth after all - but the power flowing through her…She had not felt in control.

At night, her stepmother’s laughter rang in her head. 

Through all the insults and threats and violence, the plunging feeling of realising she’d been deceived had been the worst. To not be able to trust her own eyes, her own intuition… Ella could not countenance doing the same to others, especially innocents.

It was a new fear. Before Lord Karl’s betrayal, Ella had been very aware of her new powers as a monarch and had been conscientious about not overextending but she had not feared she would emulate the awful creature who had caused the downfall of her house.

Her confusion was not helped by the lack of people with whom to talk it through.

No, that was not quite right.

Tadius would listen if she tried to express her mixture of uneasiness and fiery vindication. It was Ella who had been holding back. Earlier that evening, she had sat down and interrogated her reasoning for Tadius organising the ball. Had it been a way to keep him at a distance? Or had she just been nervous about the whole thing and trusted he would ensure it would be a success?

Unable to come to any conclusions, and missing him, she had left the note in his rooms.

After a while she heard a sound behind her.

“Bad dreams?” Tadius asked.

“I didn’t wake you, did I?” Ella countered, turning her head to watch him approach.

His hair was ruffled, sleep shift slightly askew, but he looked alert.

“I do not think so.” Tadius responded, coming to stand by her left side, one arm wrapping around her back and head pressing gently against hers.

Leaning into him, Ella sighed. “I missed you.”

“So you said.” He kissed the side of her head. After a beat he added. “I missed you too.”

Ella took his free hand and squeezed, guilt made her say. “I might have been hasty, ordering you to organise the ball.”

He stiffened. “Oh?”

Ella turned in his arms, cursing herself for not choosing her words more carefully. She found his eyes. “Just that you have been so busy.”

“Oh.” Tadius relaxed.

He hugged her close with both arms and she put both hands on his chest, relishing his warmth around her.

“That is one disadvantage.” He agreed.

“Lady Siobhan said she helped you.” Ella mentioned, warm as she remembered the lady’s praise of Tadius’ efforts so far.

“She did. Miss Han too. A lot.” He chuckled in self-deprecation, then added sincerely. “I have not been left to flounder.”

“Good.” Ella said sincerely.

She was making an effort to phrase her apology and explanation when he returned.

“And you?”

“Dealing with this ‘raider’ situation.” Ella huffed.

Tadius hummed in question and Ella realised he did not know to what she was referring.

“Lady Livia’s letter spoke of apprehending intruders on her land she believed were raiders. To my mind her description sounded more like a band of players but what do I know?”

It had all seemed rather strange to Ella.

“She is War Master for a reason.” Tadius said lightly.

That was quite a different attitude from the other council members who had all but called Livia paranoid and counselled they wait for more information before acting.

“Has she caused a fuss over nothing in the past?” Ella asked.

She had asked the council something similar but had not received a straight answer. While Livia had been on the council since before Ella’s time, she did not know the lady very well. Over the year of Ella’s reign the War Master had been called away various times so in all, most of what Ella knew of her was secondhand opinions or stories from the other councilmembers.

Taidus considered her question. “Her Ladyship is the expert in security matters so I have little idea if she has overblown this or situations in the past. I do know, however, that no threat has ever made it as far as the castle since she took over.”

“So she has not kept her position through intimidation of the other council members?”

“No, I don’t believe so. At least, not that alone.” Tadius hummed, adding. “The others are not warriors like she is. They do not like to think about such matters.”

“Like myself and Sir Hop-A-Lot.” Ella suggested.

“Indeed.” Tadius rubbed her back and sighed a little. “I did not want to suggest that Crumb become a spy.”

Ella blinked, mind taking a moment to follow his thinking.

“Oh.” Her face heated with shame as she remembered how she’d snapped at him.

And that he had been the first to bring it up when she had been meaning to do it herself. 

She reached up her left hand to cup his cheek. “I know.”

“Though he trains to become a knight none of us wish for him to lose his innocence and pure heart.” Tadius continued.

Ella raised up on her toes to kiss him softly. “I know. I am sorry that I implied such.” She looked at him intently. "I know you had no bad intentions with your suggestion."

He let out a small breath.

She added as she pulled back. “That is not what I feared.”

Tadius looked down at her, moonlight glinting off his left eye, the right obscured by a cluster of curls. His right hand came up to rest at the back of her neck, thumb rubbing her nape gently. He said nothing, leaving space for Ella to pull up her thoughts.

Finally she said. “I will not resort to subterfuge or trickery, like she did.”

Tadius frowned briefly before his expression cleared in realisation. “You are nothing like her.” He said sharply. “Nor will you ever be.”

Ella’s heart warmed, yet she felt compelled to say. “As long as I stay true and resist temptation.” Her heart beat quickened. “As long as I do not start to dole out such punishments for lesser offences. Or accuse innocents of-”

“Ella.” Tadius interrupted gently.

He pulled his hand away from her neck and wiped her cheek gently with his thumb and Ella was surprised it was wet. She hadn’t even felt the tear. Closing her eyes, she made an effort to calm her racing heart. Tadius held her silently, his hand cupping her cheek and his steady breaths helping her to focus.

Once she opened her eyes again, she saw Tadius looked concerned but not overly so.

“You have a council for a reason.” He said gently but firmly. “Wise people who can steer you away from such things.”

“Not if they fear me.” Ella insisted. 

“A little fear in a courtier is healthy.” Tadius countered. “But I do not see too much of it in your council. You respect their expertise and listen to their counsel even if you do not follow it. They know this and still offer their true opinions.” 

Letting out a long breath, Ella nodded. She did know that but it felt so much more reassuring from Tadius. She managed a weak smile.

“While I still say there is nothing wrong with collecting as much information about potential ladies-in-waiting and lovers as possible,” Tadius continued, “you need not-”

“Lovers?” Ella interrupted without even knowing she was going to.

Fear swooped low in her gut. He’d promised not to leave! Tadius’ hands tightened ever so slightly where they held her.

He avoided her gaze as he replied. “There is no restriction on the amount of lovers a monarch can have.” He chuckled awkwardly as his grip relaxed. “Just in terms of practicality.”

Ella’s fear melted into confusion. As she pulled away a little, his hand slipped from her face. “Why would I need more?”

Tadius did meet her gaze then - a sadness laying in his own. “You might want them, some day.”

A lump rose in Ella’s throat. Had she done or said something to make him think...?

She stepped back. “How long have you been thinking of this?”

Arms falling to his sides, Tadius deflected. “I have not been thinking of anything.”

Hurt welled up in Ella’s heart as she imagined what he was implying. “Have I given you cause to believe I would, what? Keep a collection of lovers like others hoard jewels?”

“No!” He stretched out his arms in protest. “Nothing like that!”

Then what? Ella was so confused. “Then why did you mention ‘information on lovers’?” She asked, heart hammering.

He floundered before offering limply. “In case.”

“In case?”

“We cannot tell the future.”

Ella turned and stepped out onto the balcony, sniffing. “You think me like the prince.”

“No!” Tadius followed her. “Please, Ella. No.” 

“You really think one day I’ll ask you for a list of names because I want more?”

“No!”

Forcing herself to face him, Ella folded her arms and demanded. “Then why?”

“Because if I have a hand in it, it won’t hurt as much!”

Ella let go of her next words, breath sounding loud in the suddenly deathly quiet night. She saw Tadius’ face frozen in pain and her stomach swooped again.

“I do not wish to cast aspersions on your character.” Tadius rasped. “I do not claim to be rational in this. I’m…I’m sorry.” His voice wobbled. “I do not…”

Distressed at his upset, Ella stepped into him again; arms wrapping around his waist. He hugged her back.

“Ella.” He whispered: a plea and an apology.

She squeezed tighter. “I understand.”

Because she did.

“I’m sorry.” He murmured.

“Hush, I forgive you.” She held back her own apology, recognising it would only distress him further.

Oh, Tadius. How long have you laboured under the fear of being replaced?

Her heart ached.

They stood there until Ella shivered, feeling the night chill. Without asking, she knew his fears would not be allayed by words - only action and time. Like her own. She pulled back and took Tadius’ hands in hers. 

Before she could speak though, Tadius went first. “I will stop. If you wish it.”

Ella wavered. She recognised the offer as a sacrifice - Tadius giving up something which was soothing his fears. On the one hand, it seemed cruel to take it from him; perhaps on par with Tadius refusing to reiterate on occasion that she would not lose him to comfort her own anxieties. On the other hand, could Ella insisting he stop collecting information on potential future lovers for her actually be reassuring for him?

“I believe I have made my feelings clear.” She said finally. Then hesitated, had she?

Tadius let out a sharp breath, with the shadow of a smile on his lips. Ah, so he agreed.

Carefully, Ella continued. “But I will not command you either way. You may do what you feel you need to do.”

Tadius squeezed her hands, eyes soft.

“But promise me something?” She asked through the lump in her throat.

“Alright.” He replied, voice rasping slightly.

“Do not doubt your place at my side.”

He smiled a little; a small, sad thing.

Remembering that day in the Solarium, when Tadius had taken Ella’s hands and given her everything she hadn’t known she’d needed, Ella whispered. “I adore you.”

Tadius’ expression softened even more, though there was a twist to his lips that almost looked like pain.

“Whereever I am, I want you there too.” Ella finished.

Eyes slipping closed, Tadius swayed forward enough to press their foreheads together. He let out a long, shaking breath and Ella prayed he was finding comfort in her words.

“Ella.” He whispered.

His throat clicked and he spoke no more. When she pulled back to look up at him, his smile was no wider but there was a light in his eyes that reassured her.

“Come on, back to bed?” Ella asked hopefully.

Tadius huffed a small laugh and with a sudden, impish grin, bent down to sweep her into his arms. Giggling, Ella let herself be swept and wrapped her arms around his shoulders.

As he walked them back to the bedchamber, Ella rested her head on his chest and squeezed her eyes shut; wanting to bottle her joy and aching heart and relief from the moment.

For rainy days.

And as a reminder she needed to take care of Tadius as much as he did her.

Chapter Text

Lord Edoardo hated balls.

Stuffy, overlong affairs with too much gladhanding in exchange for the music and food received. The only boon being the jigs and acrobats and heavy drinking at the end of the night when all the more stiff and formal guests had departed. 

Nonetheless, attending them was part of his responsibilities - to the council, his house and his Lord - so he would do so with as little grumbling as possible. The upcoming ball held another important duty of his, securing ladies-in-waiting for the Queen - preferably one of his own daughters. 

In addition to the general potential for advancement, being at court afforded more advantages to ladies, namely opportunities to garner warmer relations with other houses for marriage or alliances. Despite these stakes, Lord Edoardo was not investing too much effort in pushing his daughters on the Queen; sensing the futility.

He loved his daughters fiercely but knew both were too young and immature for the world-weary Queen. Perhaps they could visit the castle and provide levity or frivolity on occasion but careful, wise advice or solid support was not within their capabilities. Neither of them had even come of age - though for Ginerva it was only a few months away. 

Edoardo held in a sigh. As Lady Siobhan had recently reminded him, he needed to find a match for his eldest daughter. Yet he did not think he would be ever ready for his girls to leave him. The daughters he never thought he’d have had become the centre of his world.

“Tadius!” He called as he spotted the man-of-the-hour at the end of the corridor.

The Lord had been chasing the Crown Consort for half the morning: each location he’d been sent to had told him he’d just missed the man. If Edoardo had been anything like his father he would have sent a summons for the commonly-born man to come to his rooms, stretching out the meeting for maximum inconvenience just to flex his power and importance. Ever since he’d come of age, Edoardo had sworn to refrain from such tedious power plays unless the circumstances really called for it and the inquiry he had did not call for it. Instead of annoyance, each time he’d been informed he was too late Edoardo had laughed and felt some measure of respect. People could say what they liked about the Crown Consort - and they did - but none could claim him to be an idle layabout.

Screeching to a halt from his fast walk, Tadius turned and bowed.

“My Lord.” He said once Edoardo had reached speaking distance.

“Don’t let me keep you.” Edoardo said, spying the pursed lips of the impatient. “I’ll walk with you.”

Nodding gratefully, Tadius continued on. “How may I serve, my lord?”

Pompous bastard, Edoardo thought with a flicker of affection. Not even Edoardo's own servants addressed him with such a formal tone.

“I want to know how the list of potential ladies-in-waiting was shaping up.”

He caught the hesitation afore Tadius said. “There are a fair few candidates.”

It would be beyond the pale to admit his daughters should not be on the list and Edoardo was curious as to the man’s mettle, so he asked faux-casually.

“The Queen did not relate to you her thoughts about her meeting with my daughters, did she?”

That time Tadius was more prepared, saying smoothly. “She found them perfectly pleasant, my lord.”

“Good material for ladies-in-waiting?”

“That, she did not comment on.”

“Huh.” Edoardo nodded, then prodded. “You could ask her for me.”

“Perhaps such a topic would be best discussed with Her Grace directly.” Tadius returned, belatedly tacking on, “my lord.”

His did not have the same nonchalance as Edoardo’s words, for even as light as his tone had been the implication was too bare-faced. He would not betray the Queen’s confidence.

Push him and find a core of iron, Edoardo thought.

Satisfied, he replied simply. “Agreed.”

Then he was distracted by singing. As they rounded a corner, Edoardo saw the doors to the Lesser Hall were ajar and in the same moment he recognised the singer.

“Kendall’s back?” He asked, excited.

There had been a number of bards who had served in the old King’s court over the decades but none had been as lively or skilled as Kendall. They were a popular bard, especially in the Brambilla household: Ginerva and Mariana loved his ballads and Edoardo his bawdy dance songs. When his daughters had been younger, they had often begged Edoardo to steal Kendall away to perform in their halls instead.

Tadius hummed in reply, then slowed a touch. He turned to the Lord. “Have you any advice for dealing with overzealous bards?”

Uncomprehending, Edoardo querked an eyebrow.

Letting out an exasperated breath, Tadius explained. “Despite being told Butsaya is now the bard-in-residence, Kendall is still vying for the position.”

“Hold.” Edoardo stopped Tadius with a light hand on the arm.

Tadius stiffened as they both came to a halt. Edoardo took back his hand, shuffling the reaction away in his memories.

He asked. “We are not employing Kendall for the ball?”

Tadius’ eyes ran over Edoardo’s face afore saying. “No, I was not planning on it.”

Seeing the caution, Edoardo swallowed down his urge to insist Kendall perform and waited. Tadius did not disappoint him, continuing. “Did my lord have an opinion on the matter?”

While not quite an appeal for aid, Edoardo would take it.

“Kendall is a popular bard among many of the guests. I do not mean to diminish Butsaya’s repertoire but it holds none of the bawdier numbers that are the real crowd pleasers.”

“With respect my lord, I do not believe the Queen would countenance certain lyrics be sung in the presence of child-”

“Later than that, Tadius!” Edoardo cut in, waving a hand. “Surely you remember the Prince leading sing-a-longs in the early hours of the morning once the families had departed?”

Tadius hesitated before answering with a carefully blank expression. “My lord has a better memory than I.”

Edoardo considered the neutral words and tension in the man’s voice; he was hiding something. But what? Distaste or disapproval were the most likely contenders.

How have I never noticed what an old maid he is? Edoardo wondered with a kernel of affection and no small amount of amusement. It must have been torture for such a prude to serve the randy prince.

Instead of commenting on his revelation, Edoardo said firmly. “A good portion of the court would enjoy Kendall’s songs.” 

The singing stopped abruptly, followed by raised voices. Tadius and Edoardo exchanged a glance and went into the Hall.

“Messrs* Kendall!” Tadius called out sharply, making the bard instantly let go of Bustaya’s lute.

They straightened like a naughty child and Bustaya huffed, pulling the lute across her lap and folding her arms over it protectively.

“I was just trying to show her a new chord!” Kendall protested.

Tadius raised a questioning eyebrow at Bustaya. Intrigued, Edoardo hung back and watched.

“That is what they claimed.” Butsaya drawled - or at least as close to drawling as that melodic voice came.

There was a slight rasp in her words and Edoardo realised belatedly she had been the one shouting.

“When I offered you a place in the castle, Kendall, I assumed you could comport yourself accordingly.” Tadius scolded.

Kendall pouted but did not argue.

Hands on his hips, Tadius continued. “I also extracted an oath from you that you would not try to usurp Bustaya’s position.”

“‘Twas not an oath per se.” Kendall muttered.

At the flash in Tadius’ eyes though, they relented. Clearing their throat, Kendall turned to Bustaya and bowed.

“Forgive me, Bustaya, for my zeal.”

Pushing a strand of hair behind her ear, Bustaya pulled herself up in her seat. Though she addressed Tadius, it was clear her words were also a kind of answer to Kendall.

“I have known Kendall many a year, Master Tadius. Their ways do not disturb me any longer.”

Edoardo saw Tadius’ shoulders settle.

“As to the ball,” Butsaya continued, “I believe I have just demonstrated my ability to perform a jig. Though Messrs Kendall did his best to prove his voice is louder.”

“Ah, I thought I heard singing.” Edoardo said as he stepped forward.

He still preferred Kendall but saw no need to humiliate Bustaya by saying so. Tadius glanced back at him, clearly remembering their earlier conversation.

“Miss Butsaya,” Tadius said, “I did want to discuss the music for the ball with you.”

“I have a programme for you to review.” The bard said with a nod, indicating a sheaf of papers.

Kendall stepped away but showed no sign of leaving. Grinning, Edoardo clapped them on the shoulder.

“Kendall!”

“My lord!” Kendall beamed. “Care for a ditty?”

“Maybe later. How have you been? Where, in fact, have you been?”

“Not far, my lord.” They related, smile stiffening a touch. “The Cheese Monger’s castle mostly.”

Edoardo nodded politely and restrained his curiosity. While he himself had never travelled that far, he had not heard any ill rumours about it or its ruler. Perhaps something had happened on the road.

“Well, good to have you back!” Edoardo said. “My daughters will be very happy.”

Kendall grinned and asked after them. The two talked for a while before Edoardo tuned into Tadius and Bustaya’s conversation. 

“I thought perhaps we could have a second room for calmer music.” Tadius was saying.

Edoardo turned a little and paid attention. 

“After the opening and meal.” Tadius finished. 

Butsaya hummed. “And what kind of music in the Great Hall?”

“Perhaps something more energetic? You have a diverse repertoire of jigs and other dances I presume.”

“You presume correctly.” She glanced Kendall’s way. “Though of course if you’re looking for anything vulgar, they are the person to ask.”

“Are you, Tadius?” Kendall asked with a small bounce.

“Yes, are you?” Edoardo couldn’t help but repeat.

Looking between the group, Tadius thought a moment. Then he said slowly. “I suppose I am. One or two!” He quickly held up a hand at Kendall’s near-squeal. “Late, very late when the children have all gone. Butsaya will be the Head Bard, you’ll only be her second.”

“Of course! Of course, Tadius!” Kendall cried, leaping forward and kissing the man on the cheek. “Bless you nine times!”

“Make sure to thank Lord Edoardo too.” Tadius said dryly, though Edoardo was amused to see some affection in his expression.

“My favourite lord!” Kendall swivelled towards him, arms out.

Edoardo returned the gesture and just managed to hold in the grunt as the bard all but barrelled into him. They never did anything by halves, Kendall.

“Don’t get too happy. We have not discussed rates, yet.” Tadius cautioned.

“And you will answer to me on all things.” Butsaya added.

Kendall stepped away from the Lord to grin at Tadius and Butsaya. “It is great to be back!”

Edoardo started to smile but it faded as something pulled at his subconscious. Something unpleasant, something dangerous.

He almost gasped as he recognised the sound. Incoming footsteps. Marching.

Oh no!

“Well, glad to be of help. No need to mention it!” He said to Tadius in a stream as he paced backwards out of the hall. “Good luck with the rest of it!”

Tadius cocked his head in confusion but Edoardo had no time to explain. He had to get out before-

“Edoardo!”

Too late.

Pasting on a grin, Edoardo pivoted and held out his arms in greeting. 

“Livia! Darling!”

…

Tadius straightened, heart jumping as Lady Livia stalked into the Great Hall. She was flanked by her second-in-command, Sir Kwende, a burly man in his forties and her personal attendant, Miss Shahad, a lithe woman of a similar age.

The lady herself was reaching her fifties, if not there already, yet seemed as fit as ever. Her dress was shorter than standard and the bodice was made with metal or she wore a special breastplate over it - Tadius could not tell.

Rumour was the Lady she had commissioned a lightweight kind of armour just for herself and her staff. Indeed the shade of the knight’s armour seemed identical to the lady’s breastplate and Miss Shahad’s tunic was cinched at the waist with a belt tight enough to just make out the shape of something underneath.

Some scoffed, doubting how often Lady Livia was really in danger of being attacked, but none could deny the effect: she did indeed look like a warrior.

Lord Edoardo was visibly nervous underneath his flamboyant greeting and Tadius did not blame him.

Kendal and Bustaya had also tensed, going quiet. Lady Livia’s reputation was almost as fierce as the woman herself so even those who had never been in her presence watched themselves.

Tadius kept quiet too as the lady and her entourage stopped in front of Edoardo - one did not address the lady unless spoken to first. Luckily for Tadius she had never done so to him.

“Care to explain why I have yet to receive any word from the council?” Livia demanded of Edoardo.

“Oh, well,” Edoardo blustered, “it’s probably best to discuss this with the whole council, no?”

Lady Livia’s eyes narrowed even further.

“Well, fetch them then.” She prompted.

Edoardo did not hesitate, bowing deeply and quick-walking from the Hall. As the lady’s eyes found Tadius’, his blood ran cold.

Her words were short and sharp. Less of a question and more of a demand. “Your new title.”

“Crown Consort.” He answered immediately.

The lady did not react beyond blinking, her face a true mask. “You are arranging the ball.” She said.

“Yes, my lady.”

“The band of armed intruders apprehended on our lady’s lands claimed to be travelling to the castle for said ball.” Sir Kwende stated.

Tadius felt a chill creep down his spine. Why did he feel to be in trouble? He was about to question the relevance of the statement when he suddenly remembered.

“I did contact a particular troupe of players to gauge their interest in performing. This band was not The Nineteen Players?”

The knight glanced at his lady before replying. “That is possible but unlikely. They escaped our lady’s cells through magical means.” 

Tadius took in that information. While he had been under the impression the troupe had been a band of humans, dwarves and - according to peasant gossip - a fae, who merely acted out great tales for various events, there had been stories about them. If the rumour of one of their member being magical actually was correct, that could have been them escaping from the lady’s cells. But Tadius had not taken the rumours seriously and this new information did not mean anything necessarily…and he did not want a reason for the Lady to accuse him of anything.

“Regardless,” Sir Kwende continued, “the announcement of the ball has increased travel into the crownlands. It was surely an oversight that our lady was not warned prior.”

Tadius did not point out the lady had been absent from the meeting where that decision had been made through no fault of the other council members - he had no idea if they had factored her absence in or had tried to inform her with all possible haste. In that precise moment, Tadius was glad to be able to say he had not been in said meeting.

Lady Livia’s eyes bored into him, Sir Kwende’s too - only Miss Shahad was more passive though still alert; attention trained on her lady.

Then Livia’s gaze snapped downwards and dread settled into Tadius’ chest as he realised what she was looking at.

“You are no longer serving on the council.” She said, a statement and accusation in one.

Tadius swallowed around the lump in his throat and resisted the urge to press his thumb against the signet ring Lady Livia was staring at. His heart began to thump louder.

“Actually it’s more of a hiatus-” He tried to say.

“Until the Queen finds a more suitable lover.” The lady concluded.

A week ago Tadius would have agreed with her but his conversation with Ella on the balcony gave him pause. He was still not entirely sure how he felt about it all.

Ella being offended at the idea she would have lovers concurrent with or after him had been a surprise. What seemed a laughably ordinary, if upsetting, idea to Tadius had been put into question. In between organising decorations and meal schedules, Tadius had been turning it over in his mind.

Before, when he’d pictured the future he had seen Ella in a faceless man’s embrace, all her attention fixed on him while Tadius stood nearby. After, the picture changed slightly: Ella was still with another man but she looked to Tadius, hand out and smiling.

Perhaps she would not completely forget about Tadius. Perhaps he would not lose every part of her. Perhaps…

As he still had not reached any conclusions, and Ella would say how long their arrangement would last was hardly anyone else’s business, Tadius went for vague agreement.

“Some see the ball for such a purpose, yes.”

Of course the Master of War heard the evasion. Though she did not remark upon it, the ripple over her expression was acknowledgement enough. Tadius met her gaze for as long as he could before he was forced to look away.

“You do not believe there is anyone else worthy of her.”

Tadius blinked, looking up at Sir Kwende as he tried to parse the knight’s words. Incredulous laughter bubbled up and he cleared his throat.

“With respect sir, I did not say that.” He said, despite knowing the denial would not be believed.

Indeed Sir Kwende looked at his lady with eyebrows raised.

I have nothing to prove to you, Tadius thought angrily.

Increasingly aware of all the tasks he still had to complete that day, Tadius took in a steadying breath. “Is there anything else I could help with, my lady?”

Livia leveled him another assessing look. 

“Take it off.” She ordered, turning on her heel.

So strong was her command that Tadius' hands twitched to obey. He managed to still them but Sir Kwende, who had not moved, intensified his glare. Bitterness coating his throat, Tadius reached for the ring and gently pulled it off.

The knight nodded at Tadius and the bards, then followed his mistress. Refusing to let his gaze fall to the floor, Tadius watched him go.

Someone cleared their throat and Tadius looked at Miss Shahad. She was holding a gold chain out from under her tunic collar with her thumb. Nodding down at his ring, she winked.

As he got her meaning, Tadius managed to flash her a small smile. Shahad replaced the chain, bowed to Tadius and the bards before hurrying to catch up with her lady.

Silence reigned after the door closed behind the group, until Kendall let out a breath like they were surfacing from an icy lake.

“Remind me never to let my path cross hers again!” They turned to Tadius. “Are you alright, Tadius?”

“I’ve been better.” Tadius muttered.

Butsaya finally moved, standing, putting her lute on her chair and crossing over to put a gentle hand on Tadius’ forearm. He welcomed the distraction of her starting to sing.

“Some ladies love silver,”

Kendall huffed a laugh as Butsaya continued.

“Some covet gold,”

Tadius had recognised the song by that time and his small smile grew.

Kendall joined in. “But my love just wants to dance nude in the cold!”

There were many, many filthy verses -and indeed different versions- to But my love which was essentially a send-up of soppy romance ballads about one’s lady love. As the bards went on to sing about erect nipples and other body parts, Tadius squeezed Butsaya’s hand. He used the time to lower his heart rate and regain strength in his knees. He also noted how well the two bards sang together and wondered over the history Bustaya had mentioned.

“If you like I could follow our lovely lady at the ball and serenade her with that tune.” Kendall offered when they’d had their fill.

Tadius raised an eyebrow. “I thought you swore to never get too close to her again.”

“Ah,” Kendall blanched, “yes, well. Consider that a metaphorical offer.”

“I am metaphorically touched.” Tadius shot back.

“Ha!” Kendall grinned. “I knew you had poetry in you!”

Butsaya patted Tadius’ arm and went to collect her lute. Nerves recovered, Tadius squared his shoulders.

“I meant it about rates,” he warned Kendall, “we cannot shell out for two Head Bards.”

Kendall flapped a hand and Tadius filed that problem away for later. 

He nodded to them. “I’ll come around soon to discuss details.”

“Good day, Consort.” Bustaya acknowledged.

“Good day, dear Tadius!” Kendall bowed with flourishing arms.

Tadius smiled reluctantly and left. In the hallway, he had to pause to remember his next task. Startling as he realised he was still holding onto the ring, Tadius looked down at it.

The facade was as bright as the day he’d received it: dropped into his hand without any ceremony. He had taken to polishing it on holy days or whenever he had an unexpected spare hour.

The eyes of the left and right birds seemed to wink at him as the gold caught the light. He ran a thumb over it, feeling the familiar contours of the etching. It had been a little foolish of him to keep wearing it when he was not currently serving on the council. Not everyone knew the style of the council members’ rings, but it would have caused confusion had he worn it in front of more people who knew. He had been aware of that and yet…

After the indulgent moment, he forced himself to pocket it and head off to tackle the next task: the final fittings of his new doublet and hose for the ball. The only reason he’d agreed to such was so he could match Ella’s new dress, otherwise he would have just taken something out of the trunk in her rooms. Still, at least the Royal Tailor was a no-nonsense man who preferred to work as efficiently as possible, that meant Tadius could quickly cross the task off his list and go on to more important things. 

As he went, Tadius added finding a small chain to his list.

…

Lady Siobhan steeled herself as she took the last few steps to the Council Room door. She had known Livia for at least two decades, well, as much as anyone outside of Livia’s circle really knew her. Siobhan had no reason to feel nervous. She repeated that a few times then went in.

“Siobhan!” Andrew greeted with uncharacteristic enthusiasm. “Come in, come in!”

Siobhan greeted him, Martin and Livia, noting Livia’s attendant a half-step behind her. Edoardo and the Queen were not there yet.

“Siobhan.” Livia greeted shortly.

“You look well, Livia.” Siobhan smiled. 

It was true, as the warrior lady did not habitually wear powder or any such makeup, fatigue showed more strongly on her face. That day, her skin was clear and she looked as alert as ever.

Livia eyed her and then nodded. “And you.”

Relief washed through Siobhan. “Thank you!”

“Lord Andrew was telling me of his sessions with the Consort.” Livia continued.

“Crown Consort.” Andrew said.

“What possessed you to allow that?” Livia demanded in that flat way of hers.

“It was the Queen’s will!” Siobhan protested.

“The Queen approved of no other options for titles.” Martin said at the same time.

Siobhan blinked, had she misunderstood the criticism?

“An explanation was sent out with the announcement.” Andrew argued.

Siobhan nodded as she realised Livia’s contention was with the title. She let out a little relieved sigh.

“And the average house bothers to read in that much detail?” Livia asked dryly.

“Some houses have already met him.” Martin began. “No doubt their reports will be met with more attention.”

“Yes, he is not performing badly.” Andrew added. “I do not believe he has made any unfavorable impressions.”

Livia acknowledged neither man’s words, changing track. “I understand he has been suspended from the council only temporarily.”

“Well, the Queen has not made a decision regarding that.” Siobhan explained.

Livia’s gaze was not angry or displeased yet Siobhan still felt like apologising. 

“It is her right to shape her council as she would.” Martin said.

“And it is our duty to guide her based on our collective experience and wisdom.” Livia shot back.

“I have given her the relevant accounts that began the custom of not allowing royal lovers to attend council meetings.” Andrew said. “I trust she will uphold it or at least keep him off until she finds another, more suitable lover.”

He had not said anything wrong, yet Siobhan felt a touch of disquiet; the Queen’s smile when speaking of Master Tadius came back to Siobhan’s mind.

“At the ball?” Livia asked.

“We hope.” Martin said.

“Hope? What plans are in place so far?” Livia questioned.

Siobhan glanced at the men - she had not thought much of it beyond for which men she would advocate.

“I could introduce her to some good options?” She offered.

Livia’s eyes narrowed. 

“Not everything is a battle plan.” Andrew muttered.

Livia’s attendant leaned in and whispered in her ear.

Lightening fast, Livia’s eyes found Andrew’s. “Especially vague ideas that are decidedly not plans at all.”

Footsteps forestalled whatever he might have said back. Everyone straightened except for Livia - who Siobhan had not ever seen slouch.

The Queen entered with Edoardo a step behind. Greetings were exchanged, if Livia continued to feel frustration she did not show it to the Queen.

“Lady Livia, I hope you had a safe journey.” The Queen said, expression neutral.

“Swift and uneventful, my Queen.”

The Queen nodded and continued flatly. “Lord Edoardo tells me you wish to discuss the intruders on your lands.”

“Indeed. When I received no response to my missive I decided to give my report directly.”

The Queen paused, eyes sharpening, before asking. “Forgive me, my lady, but the Crown did respond. Did you truly not receive any word?”

A hesitation, then Livia conceded. “A request for more information came to me. Perhaps our definitions of ‘response’ differ.”

“Perhaps they do.” The Queen waved a regal hand. “Continue.”

“While this band claimed to merely be players, they were armed and escaped their bonds through magical means.”

“They had a witch with them?” Martin asked.

“Unknown.” Livia replied.

The Queen twitched. Lady Siobhan remembered the long discussions the Queen and council had undertaken about the nature of magic. Mostly Siobhan had stayed quiet - she had seen the Queen’s magic at the Deadly Wedding and had not been able to argue the Queen was ignorant of magical things.

In the end, the only concession the council could win was an agreement that none would be punished retroactively for following the old laws. Otherwise, said laws had been abolished and the lords and their local lawmakers had been called to ensure they understood and implemented the new procedure where there were accusations of black magic. They were urged to tell everyone in their fiefdoms that ‘witches’ as was commonly understood did not exist. It had been quite an event and most of the attendees had been impressed by the Queen’s poise, wisdom and fire. 

Even the Church, who had initially questioned the changes, had been cowed by the strength of people’s respect for the Queen and embarrassed by their endorsement of the Prince’s unnatural bride. Martin had commented to Siobhan that it would be better for them to be as silent as possible so everyone would forget their role in that disastrous and foulest of events and not question why they had not sensed the unholiness under the surface.

Evidently the head of the Church had agreed and for the remainder of the first year of the Queen’s rule they had been quiet.

Martin seemed to notice his error and bowed his head to the Queen.

“Apologies, I misspoke.”

“Whatever you call it - they entered my lands without permission and escaped lawful confinement.” Livia continued. “As they claimed to be heading for the castle I came post haste to ensure the appropriate measures were implemented."

The queen thought a moment. “As my War Master I trust your judgement on matters of safety. Although I will always endeavour to give people the benefit of the doubt, I understand your ladyship does not enjoy the same luxury.”

Livia nodded in approval.

“I want to be in the meeting with Sir Hop-A-Lot when you discuss these measures.” The Queen went on. “To ensure my will is done. If these players do surface, I will want to talk to them myself.”

Again, Livia acknowledged her words with the nod of her head.

“Was there anything else?” The Queen asked.

Ever the pragmatic, Livia said simply. “Your lover.”

Siobhan tensed, still taken aback despite knowing Livia would not be afraid of directness, and exchanged a glance with Martin. He looked annoyed for a moment before smoothing out his expression; like Siobhan he preferred making suggestions to the monarch in a more subtle way. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Edoardo and Andrew shift nervously too.

The Queen had also tensed. “What about him?”

“I wondered how long you meant to keep him.” Livia said bluntly.

The Queen could not or did not want to hide her offence. “I beg your pardon?”

Livia pressed on. “How long will you keep a commonly-born man this close to you? Especially at the exclusion of-”

The Queen shook her head. “That is the business of none except Tadius and I!”

“Going from a cook’s son to the Queen’s lover is quite the ascension.” Livia looked around the group. “Have none here really questioned it?”

Siobhan frowned. She had not known Tadius’ parentage but asked herself if that truly mattered. He had loyally served the Prince for years and did not strike Siobhan as overly ambitious.

Livia was not finished. “Lord Karl stumbles and immediately this man-”

The Queen’s nostrils flared and Siobhan felt a rush of fear.

“Oh, Livia!” Edoardo chastised weakly.

“Master Tadius has served the Queen loyally for a year,” Martin said with more conviction, “and he never abused his position on the council before that.”

“He is a good man.” Siobhan felt compelled to add, reflecting on their conversation about the ball.

He was working very hard and Siobhan knew it was all for their Queen’s sake.

Livia turned to Andrew and he coughed.

“I do believe he is a humble servant, Livia.” He mumbled without meeting her eyes. “Hard-working, an asset…” He trailed off.

Siobhan risked a glance at the Queen to see her expression hardened, hands in front of her clasped tightly.

Unaware or uncaring of the Queen’s disapproval, Livia looked around the other council members, challenging. “You would be happy to welcome him back to the council, would you?”

Siobhan glanced at the lords and saw the same hesitation she felt. It would really be best to keep the political and the personal separate, in her view. On the other hand, she had no qualms about the man himself coming back.

“He was a good addition." Martin hedged. “He saw things we did not.”

Andrew’s lips were pressed together and he appeared to be studying the table.

“In time...” Siobhan offered limply.

Edoardo nodded at Siobhan while his eyes darted nervously to Livia.

The Queen pulled herself up and with her breath in, drew everyone’s attention.

“Lady Livia, I appreciate your experience on security matters but I most decidedly do not appreciate the casting of aspersions on any of my subjects without evidence. If you suspect Tadius’ intentions based on his common birth, do not.”

Her tone was even and cutting simultaneously; making Siobhan clasp her own hands together to resist shivering.

“You mentioned Lord Karl,” the Queen continued, eyes flashing, “the man who plotted against me, using two other nobles in his schemes and,” her voice sharpened, “making threats against my subjects.” 

Siobhan remembered the moment Lord Karl had snapped in the Throne Room, his ire directed at Master Tadius. Knowing what she knew now, it seemed obvious to Siobhan why the Queen had been furious at that.

“A man from one of the most powerful houses lusted for my crown.” The Queen paused before saying slowly, looking around the room. “And none here suspected him.” 

No one moved. It felt like none even breathed. Siobhan felt her face heat with shame but held back an apology.

The Queen took in a breath and went on. “Tadius has done nothing but help me, he himself volunteered to step down from the council upon his appointment as my lover.” Her brow wrinkled slightly, warmth entering her tone. “And in planning this ball he is thinking about which noble ladies I could take as ladies-in-waiting, fully aware that might affect his place by my side.” Then the Queen pulled herself up even higher and finished, ice cold as she looked directly at Lady Livia. “To judge a person based on their birth is sheer foolishness which I will never tolerate.” 

Livia’s blank expression did not change, but Siobhan saw her shoulders tense.

The Queen was not finished. “As your sovereign, I will decide who is and who is not on this council.” She looked around the room. “Is that clear?”

Siobhan curtseyed immediately, seeing the men bow. After a moment, Livia inclined her head and curtseyed also.

The Queen nodded primly and left. Once the door was closed, Siobhan let out a relieved breath, seeing some of the others doing the same. While that had not been as frightening as the judgments in the forest, the Queen’s fury was intense. Siobhan prayed she did not ever err enough to earn such fury directed at herself.

“You’re all fools.” Livia’s face was unreadable as ever, though her words made her meaning clear.

“Livia…” Martin began half-heartedly. “What did you expect?”

Edoardo flapped a hand, though he sounded a little winded as he said. “The Queen was not wrong in any of her points! And she is as entitled to lovers as any monarch.”

“You are all fools if you think this will just go away on its own.”

Siobhan’s stomach clenched a little. Adding the Queen’s impassioned speech to what she had seen and heard about Queen Ella and her lover, she thought she could see Livia’s concern.

“You think this is true love?” Siobhan asked.

Livia looked at her levelly as the men shook their heads or scoffed.

“It’s puppy love!”

“She is young. There will be others.”

“The Queen’s first lover is not a bad choice, all things considered.” Martin argued, voice rising above the others. 

He looked around the group once he had their attention and insisted. “Master Tadius has been her loyal servant for a year and the…incident shook us all. If she needs to spend some time with a safe choice, then I say we let her. But the Queen is not soft. She will not need this forever.”

Without a word, Livia turned abruptly and marched out, her attendant close behind.

“It is nice to see that some things do not change.” Andrew snarked once the coast was clear.

“Andrew.” Siobhan chastised. “Livia is just concerned for the Queen’s future. As we all are.”

“If she had been here when the Queen was considering matches, she might have been able to intercept the plot.” Edoardo muttered.

Andrew frowned at him.

“Edoardo!” Siobhan cried.

“Not likely.” Martin said. “The Queen spoke true: none of us would have ever expected such depravity from him .”

That was…Siobhan’s eyes widened as she had an idea. “Yet the Queen did! At least she was not charmed by him. Do you remember?”

At the time, Siobhan had thought the Queen merely indecisive or shy, for who could not have been flattered and smitten by Lord Karl’s advances and prospects? Instead the Queen had remained neutral on him, retrospectively showing some kind of sharp instinct. Perhaps…Siobhan wavered before completing her thought. Perhaps they could trust the Queen to know who was best for her?

The men gave vague agreeing gestures at Siobhan’s words. She did not know how to word her new idea. Feeling tired and sensing there was not anything else to discuss, she excused herself.

She headed to the inner courtyard balcony to get some air. Her nerves were still unsettled after all the tension and conflict in the Council Room. The balcony was quiet and Siobahn stepped up to the railing, taking in a deep breath.

That’s better.

She breathed, shifting on her feet a little and wondering if she should go to take a quick nap before dinner. Maybe she would just sit quietly in her rooms. She needed to think longer on the Queen and her love situation. Opening her eyes, Siobhan looked down to see a group gathered in the courtyard.

Miss Han, Master Tadius and Mr Daniels the Head Gardener were crowded around a table of flowers.

From her position, Siobhan could not hear any of the conversation but she assumed it concerned decorations for the ball.

Looking over the arrangements, Siobhan favoured the blue and white iris bouquet. Personally. While she did like the green of the Queen’s house colours, some variety was nice. She considered Master Tadius a moment: he seemed to be in control of the conversation, throwing questions to Mr. Daniels and Miss Han but very much directing as he made notes in a small notebook. For a moment, Siobhan pictured a crown upon his head.

For a moment, she could see it.

The group looked around suddenly, turning as one and bowing or curtseying. The Queen was approaching.

Siobhan stepped back slightly in case the Queen looked up - as she wanted her sovereign to cool off a little before speaking to her again. Still, Siobhan watched as the Queen walked up to the group, sparing a quick nod to Mr Daniels and Miss Han before leaning in and kissing Master Tadius.

Sibohan blinked.

Miss Han did not visibly react in contrast to Mr Daniels who smirked a little. Master Tadius himself did not move beyond one hand coming up to gently touch the Queen’s right elbow. The kiss did not last long, the Queen pulling back and saying something. From the distance and the angle, Siobhan could only just make out Queen Ella’s face. While her expression was not possible to read, clearly her attention was focused on Master Tadius and it was only politeness that kept her talking to the others.

After a short conversation, the Queen nodded to Miss Han and Mr Daniels before walking away. Master Tadius grabbed something off the table, also nodded to the others and hurried after the Queen. Miss Han and Mr Daniels exchanged a glance, the gardener with a fatherly laugh, before turning back to the flower arrangements.

Siobahn was reminded of the early days of her marriage - how impatient she and her husband had sometimes been to spend time together. How on occasion they had quite forgotten decorum. Those were happy memories.

Siobahn went to retire to her rooms and on the way reflected that despite all the complications and doubts about the future, the Queen deserved such giddiness and gaiety. She had been such a nervous thing in the beginning, keeping a strong countenance even while still learning her way. All through her first year as monarch, Queen Ella had worked hard to earn respect and rule wisely.

The lady was glad fun and laughter and romance were finally coming to the young Queen. What was the harm, really, if she found such things in young Master Tadius?

What problems could that cause that the council could not fix later?

And perhaps the most intriguing question: was what Livia feared a true problem at all?

Chapter Text

Ella did not jerk awake. The sensation was more akin to surfacing from a murky lake of unease. The room was dark and as she released the tension from her limbs, she heard Tadius’ soft breaths beside her.

Ella held back a groan, sinking a little into the mattress. She did not feel rested yet doubted she would be able to fall back asleep. It was the day of the Ball and she was not sure how she felt about it. Certainly looking forward to when it would be over, that was for sure. 

Shifting slightly, she felt Tadius move too.

“Ella?” He asked through a yawn.

“Good back to sleep.” She ordered gently. 

Turning her head with the idea to stroke hair back from his face, she ended up pouting as the dark thwarted her. Tadius sighed and rolled over. Oh, he had been facing the wrong way anyway - Ella realised with a little chagrin. She leaned in; looking at his face as much as she could in the gloom.

“I was already awake.” He murmured.

“Bad dreams?” She echoed his typical question.

After a beat, Tadius shifted up onto his elbow and cried. “Terrible!” 

Ella held in a snort at the sudden theatrics. Where had he gotten the energy from?

“I dreamt I’d forgotten to order enough candles and Kendall was singing very inappropriate songs in front of Lady Darlana’s children and then,” he continued over Ella’s chuckles, “I was talking to Lady Livia when I realised I wasn’t wearing any hose!”

Mirth bubbling too high, Ella snorted that time. 

Tadius was laughing slightly as he admonished. “Ella! Your lack of empathy wounds me deeply.”

Shuffling up to him and resting on one arm, Ella patted his bare shoulder with her free hand. “Forgive me. That does sound to be a terrifying dream.”

Given her rather dramatic encounter with the lady, Ella was being sincere underneath her remaining laughter. Tadius wrapped his fingers around her wrist and squeezed briefly before letting go. Despite his levity, Ella was aware how important the ball going well was for him on a personal level. She leaned in, pressing a kiss to where she approximated his forehead to be. It ended up being mostly eyebrow but Tadius did not complain. Oriented better, Ella decided to stroke his forehead as she’d wanted to do earlier. In response, Tadius shifted closer and wrapped an arm around her back. His smell seemed to curl around her too and Ella’s heart hummed.

“You have prepared everything.” Ella said, hand going to his side. “And anything you did not do is not necessary.”

Tadius let out a long breath. “It will be the first time most of the court will see us together.”

Ella blinked. She had known that fact but had not really contemplated it at all.

“And that makes you nervous?” She asked.

“To be honest it still unnerves me when nobles acknowledge me at all.” He sagged down, shifting to lay on his shoulder with his other arm still draped over her. “For so much of my life I was invisible until I was needed.” 

Ella moved down to her shoulder too, listening closely and idly sliding her thumb over his hip.

“Except when it came to the prince.” Tadius sighed. “That man always wanted to talk.”

Ella detected a melancholy in his voice, often there when he remembered the prince. Exasperation was dominant a lot of the time, disgust and anger also but underneath, a sadness. Testament to his wealth of compassion, Ella assumed.

Once, when they had both drank a cup of wine more than they usually did, Tadius had confessed to feeling sorry for the prince at the end. Not even he had deserved such a fate in the servant’s view.

Not feeling like she had anything comforting to say on that score, she just kept rubbing her thumb over his skin.

“Anyway.” He muttered.

“Your new position, it’s not too much, is it?” Ella asked, thinking about their agreement to revisit their arrangement if needed.

She had only heard good things about his hosting of visiting houses and in the glimpses she had caught of Tadius striding around organising things, he had seemed confident and in control. In fact, Ella had really liked seeing him in such a mode. It was not new exactly, he had always been competent in his role and Ella had always enjoyed watching him work. Despite how much he appeared though, Ella knew he would be nervous - both due to his nature and the fact he often worked late. 

Ella couldn’t wait for the whole thing to be over so they would be able to spend more time together. She had been feeling nostalgic for days gone by, in between her relaxing into her new role and the Redbush incident. Not that she wanted to return to that relationship exactly, just the long hours they spent together: work punctuated by snarking or philosophical discussions. Perhaps they should make use of the summer palace, when the weather became warm enough.

Provided Tadius still-

“No.” Tadius’ answer interrupted her musing.

She thought she saw a smile on his face.

“It is a new challenge, yes,” he continued, “but one I meet gladly.” She heard the smile in his voice as he said. “And it is not as if I will be alone.”

Letting out a small sigh, Ella relaxed. She patted down his arm until she found his hand, taking it in hers. In response he squeezed it and leaned in to kiss her, lips landing just at the bottom of her left cheek. 

Pulling back, he murmured. “I promise I am still happy.”

Ella smiled, that was her clever Tadius - hearing what she did not say. “That cheers me to hear. And of course, I am happy too.”

Tadius brought her hand up to his lips and kissed the back.

“Are you nervous?” He asked after a moment.

Ella searched her heart, answering slowly. “Yes, in so much that I want it to go well and for people to like it.”

And like you, she added in her mind.

“You do not worry what the court thinks of you anymore?”

Ella hummed. “I suppose I worry less.” 

She thought back to that intense council meeting with Lady Livia, her heart still rolled over in memory. Replacing one of her council members was not something she wanted to do - especially in such an important role as War Master. Yet she needed to do more to guide their thinking. Gone were the days of feeling out of place. Ella knew she alone had the authority and the right to rule.

And if she was to remain a just and wise ruler, she required council from just and wise people. Ella would need to keep a closer eye on her council members, to see if they really could overcome old prejudices and snobbery that still lingered in their hearts. 

If not, she would need to act.

Feeling restless, she sat up against the headboard, keeping Tadius’ hand in hers, and jested. “As monarch, I have accepted my place as the highest woman in all the land.”

Tadius huffed a laugh and joined her, bumping their shoulders. As her shift was without sleeves, their bare skin touched. Pleased, Ella basked in the warmth and familiarity of their casual conversation.

“It is not long till sunrise.” Tadius said after a moment. “A few hours at most.”

“How do you know that?”

“It is my body’s habit to wake a few times in the night.” He shrugged. “This is the last time before I usually rise.”

Ella felt a pulse of joy - she hoped she would never stop enjoying learning about him.

“I have an idea of a way to spend the time.” Tadius went on, bowing faux-referentially. “If the highest woman in all the land does not wish for more beauty sleep.”

“Hm. I will deign to hear your idea.” Ella snarked back.

Tadius smirked and leaned in to kiss her; lips finding lips. Ella was instantly on board. She kissed back, mirroring Tadius as he shifted to face her. Together they pulled each other close, hands roaming, fingers squeezing.

Ella’s brain reminded her of the sheaths still nestled in the Physician’s box, safely stashed in a drawer. When Tadius pulled back, Ella opened her mouth to suggest using them but Tadius’ words closed her mouth again.

“I want to taste you.”

Ella’s head tilted slightly as she tried to figure out his meaning.

“Like you did for me.” He explained.

Oh! Ella’s eyebrows raised. 

She had not ever considered that but her sex clenched at the idea.

“If you want.” Tadius murmured.

Ella swallowed. “Yes, I would want that.”

Tadius kissed her again, Ella responding enthusiastically. Tadius’ clever fingers worked her shift up and off her. Too hot and bothered to feel any chill in the air, Ella sighed as his hands stroked over her bare skin. They kissed again, Ella enjoying the way Tadius’ breath caught as her bare breasts pressed against his chest.

Slowly, Tadius manoeuvered them so Ella was on her back, Tadius kneeling over her. With an intense, hungry look that cut through the dark, Tadius began kissing his way down her body. Ella shivered in anticipation. Not wanting to be idle, she put a hand on his head, fingers sinking into his hair. He made a soft sound, seemingly of approval, and Ella made an experimental scratch. A responding grunt and clench of fingers told her he liked it, so she kept it up. 

Finally, he reached her sex.

The first kiss there made her gasp. The sensation of his moustache against her sex was not unpleasant; tickling slightly. Though it was quickly eclipsed by his tongue licking over her folds. Moaning a little, Ella spread her legs and Tadius took the unintentional cue, shifting closer and exploring her sex with his tongue.

Gods, it was good.

Ella grabbed her breasts and pinched her nipples, legs shaking at the accumulative sensation. Her clit tingled with need.

“Tadius!” She sighed.

He hummed in response but didn’t go where she wanted, instead dipping his tongue into her sex. Ella’s back arched as lightning arced up and down her spine.

The more flexible tongue was a new feeling and for a second she wasn’t sure if she liked it. Then he somehow moved closer, tongue pushing deeper in, and Ella’s eyes rolled back. She let go, riding the waves of pleasure. Tadius’ hands went to her hips, pressing down gently when she bucked up. Then he pulled back, replacing his tongue with a long finger and licking-

“Yes!” Ella cried.

As he focused his attention on her clitoris, lines of fire spread down her limbs till her toes curled almost painfully. One of her hands flew up to press against the headboard. No longer able to control her speech, litanies of ‘god’, ‘yes’, and ‘Tadius!’ continued to escape her lips.

Her orgasm rushed up and she lost her breath as she trembled and shook through the waves of pleasure. It felt, so, good.

Finally, she sighed, tension bleeding out of her whole body. Tadius shifted away, grunting, as Ella panted with her limbs still fizzing.

After a minute or two, she felt the mattress move and managed to loll her head to the side, looking at Tadius. He was looking at her but his expression was still obscured by the darkness.

Ella herself grinned. “That was…”

“Good?”

“More than.” She panted. “Excellent.”

He dropped a kiss onto her shoulder and she managed to raise her hand up to squeeze his elbow.

“I’m glad.” He said, with a laugh in his voice.

“I’m lucky.” Ella rejoined, feeling impossibly light.

Tadius’ voice was soft as he replied. “I feel the same.”

“Oh,” Ella suddenly realised, “did you…?”

She propped herself on her elbow to look down at Tadius’ crotch.

“Oh, I don’t need to…” He said vaguely.

Unable to see in the gloom, Ella rolled onto her side and pressed her body against his.

Oh.

He wasn’t hard and…was that a wet patch?

“I was very glad you enjoyed it.” He japed, voice strained.

Ella blinked. Had he really come merely from what he was doing to her? Her face heated and she kissed him. Tasting herself on his tongue made her breath catch. 

She brought up her hands to cup his face, pulling back to say. “I am glad you were glad.”

Chuckling, Tadius leaned in to kiss her again. Happy and relaxed and sated, Ella eagerly kissed back.

Also feeling a little impish, she pulled back and asked. “But did you order enough candles?”

Tadius shook his head, voice shaking slightly with laughter. “Such wounds she inflicts!”

Ella cupped his face, beaming. There was just enough light to see he was smiling back.

Today was going to be a good day, she just knew it.

Chapter Text

Sun was filling up a tray of goblets with an aperitif in the Entrance Hall when she first saw Tadius’ outfit for the ball.

It was an hour before the time it was scheduled to start, meaning the most eager of the guests were about to arrive. Anda was helping her as they would hand out the drink as the guests came in and he had claimed boredom. There were some knights dotted around beside doorways and on the stairs and in general there was a buzzing in the air as the whole castle was seemingly holding its breath.

As the Queen had been helped into her dress and had merely needed help from the Royal Hair Mistress, she had told Sun to go to see if Master Tadius needed help. He had come up while the Queen had been dressing to check her preference of address when he announced her, and his stress had been evident. He himself had not been prepared save for unnaturally smooth hair, the result of Lady Siobhan’s well-intentioned meddling apparently. The Queen had not liked it, Sun saw, yet she had smiled nonetheless. 

When Sun had found Tadius, he had still not been dressed, but had sent her to the kitchens which had subsequently sent her up to do the welcome goblets.

“-sure there’s enough.” 

Sun heard Tadius’ voice as he entered the Entrance Hall from the Lesser Hall. She turned around from putting down a goblet and appraised him.

His jade doublet was V-shaped, long-sleeved and was cinched in at the waist with small flaps that reached his hips. Both panels were embroidered with silver leaves and the small buttons that ran the whole length from collar to waist were silver too. His hose were a dark green and he wore black knee-length boots. Coupled with his smoother hair, the effect was slightly dazzling.

Sun had to blink twice to refocus her attention on the conversation. Having seen the Queen’s dress, she knew they would match quite nicely.

Miss Han was following Tadius into the hall with a light frown on her face.

“As you can see, all is ready.” The Steward said.

Tadius assessed the tables of goblets, nodding briefly at Sun and Anda. Miss Han extended her frown to Anda - who was technically supposed to be waiting at the door for guests - but he gave her a cheerful wave. No one could stay angry at Anda ‘The Smilemonger’ for long, Sun reflected, not even the dour Steward - who indeed turned away without chastising him further.

Directing her attention back to Tadius, Miss Han said. “You should not be in here when anyone arrives. You can wait in the Great Hall.”

Tadius looked at her, mouth in a thin line and brows very slightly pinched with worry. Everyone knew how hard he had been working to organise the ball just as everyone knew the importance of the event. A formal introduction to the court was a big moment for anyone, let alone a low-born lover to the still relatively-new Queen. Sun had not spoken to Tadius about his new place in the court but she had known him long enough to be certain he felt unprepared. He never would have expected such a position in a thousand years and, Sun suspected, had only agreed to it due to an incredibly specific set of circumstances.

She personally had not seen him interacting with nobles since his appointment but from Vishanti and others’ reports he seemed to be doing well. The ball was the next test: an hours-long examination of his every move by a hundred eyes.

Sun wished Tadius didn’t need to be exposed in such a way, she wished the Queen hadn’t put him in that position; that he could have continued serving in his usual, humble way. He had been so happy as the Queen’s advisor, which in turn had made Sun and the other maids happy. Indeed the first year of Queen Ella’s rule had been good for seemingly everyone.

Why did things have to change?

Expression softening slightly, Miss Han stepped closer to Tadius. “All is prepared.” She said lowly.

Shoulders drooping a little, Tadius bowed his head with a rueful smile. He nodded to Sun and Anda then turned on his heel, going back to the Great Hall.

Miss Han looked over the goblets and moved one an inch over. “That should be enough for now.” She commented, then her voice sharpened: “Stay with him, Sun. Anda, to the door. ” 

Sun curtseyed and went to join Tadius. 

The Great Hall looked very festive: green, pink and silver banners lined the walls, bunches of yellow flowers with artfully arranged tree leaves were laid on each table with jade ribbons tied around the table legs. There were three sets of tables, two arranged in short rows on either side of the room with space in the centre and a third, the Royal Table, at the far end of the room. On the wall by the main entrance was a large tapestry the Queen had commissioned a month or so into her reign. It was called the Swamp Tapestry, depicting the swamp near the Ashmore estate. Though the subject matter was not a traditionally beautiful one, the tapestry itself was quite pleasing to the eye with natural colours and hints of silver woven throughout. Together, the whole effect made the room look like an indoor garden. 

The Royal Table was up on a short dais and each chair had an individual flower tied to its back frame. Sun was too far away to discern which chair had which flower, but she assumed great thought had been put into the choices. 

Butsaya the Bard was setting up her harp in the centre of the room, directing a lute player and percussionist. Kendall was buzzing around them, arms waving as they talked.

Apart from all the activity, Tadius was staring at something up high on the far wall.

As Sun approached he noted her presence, shifting back and turning a little to her but not looking away from the wall, saying. “That banner is crooked.”

It wasn’t. At least, not to Sun. She wasn’t sure if pointing that out would be helpful - and never really knew how to be encouraging or comforting - so said nothing.

Tadius turned to look at her. She looked back. Evidently her scepticism showed on her face because he sighed and rubbed a hand over his face. Sun blinked. Where was his ring?

“Alright.” He said in a defeated tone. Then he straightened and asked. “What’s new downstairs?” 

Although guessing he was looking for a distraction, Sun was still honest. “Nothing interesting.”

Tadius tilted his head at her, eyes twinkling. “Tell me you’re going to the kitchen party after Miss Han has gone to bed.”

Sun didn’t dignify that with an answer beyond a flat stare. The amusement in Tadius’ expression deepened.

Voices from the Entrance Hall. The pair straightened and Sun stepped back a few paces to be on hand but out of the way. In front of her, Tadius took in a deep breath. He nodded to Butsaya, who was paying attention, and she led her band into a song.

The first noble group entered the Great Hall: a married couple and an older man. 

Tadius smiled politely and greeted them. “Lord and Lady Salsbury!”

Sun had never seen them before but was glad their answering smiles and addresses seemed genuine.

“Master Tadius, good to meet you.” The Lord said, shaking Tadius’ hand.

“And you.” Tadius replied before going to kiss the lady’s hand. “My lady.”

She curtseyed.

“Welcome back to the castle.” Tadius said. He tilted his head and nodded at the older man who was hanging back. “Sir.”

“Yes, yes.” The old Lord flapped a hand. “Where am I sitting?”

“Papa.” The Lady admonished gently.

“Of course,” Tadius said smoothly with the wave of a hand, “let me show you to your places.”

Sun followed the group at a respectable distance. More groups came in and Tadius greeted them in turn. Butsaya directed her band to play some midtempo tunes although Sun noticed Kendall wandering, greeting nobles with whom he seemed familiar.

A few servants came in to be on hand and to top up goblets and while no knights entered, Sun caught glimpses of them outside when the door opened. Quickly the Hall filled with voices, laughter and music.

When Lady Bernada and Dolores of House Alba entered, Sun watched closely. Lady Bernada was very talkative as Tadius led them to their place and Tadius did not manage to get any words in. There was no hidden emotion in the lady’s eyes as far as Sun could tell, and Lady Dolores was smiling in a relaxed way. Luckily Lady Bernada recognised the lady across from her and started a new conversation. 

Freed, Tadius stepped away from the table and Lady Dolores smiled at him.

“I wanted to thank you again for the gift. It was very generous.”

Tadius bowed his head in acknowledgement.

“And I thought you’d like to know that Lady Magdalena will be joining me at Sunrise Place.”

Tadius’ polite smile spread to a real one. “You were absolutely correct, my lady. That is good news. It is not long now, is it?”

“A few weeks.” The Lady answered, fingers fidgeting in the folds of her dress.

Tadius’ attention was caught by another set of arrivals so he smiled again at her. “I hope you enjoy the ball.”

The greeting continued, with Sun barely holding any names or significant moments in her head. No comments the nobles made were incredibly interesting so she let her mind wander while she kept one eye on Tadius in case he needed something. 

At one point, Tadius caught sight of the royal table and frowned. Sun followed his gaze: Lady Silverhead and her daughter were sitting at one end, talking to Lord Andrew who was hovering next to them. The Silverheads must have slipped in when Tadius had been busy, indeed Sun had not seen them either. She followed Tadius’ gaze and saw a young man at another table that was dressed in similar colours: that must be the remaining Silverhead son. Tadius did not voice his thoughts and indeed went to greet someone else as if he had not noted anything out of the ordinary.

When it seemed that most every guest was in the hall, milling about or seated, Anda came to find Tadius.

“She’s on her way.” He said.

Tadius nodded and excused himself from his conversation with Lady Thornbush; thankfully for Sun as she had no interest in the price of silk.

Sun shadowed him as he made his way to the back of the room. As he passed Butsaya he said something to her and she nodded, signalling to the band. By the time Tadius reached the Royal Table, they had concluded their phrase.

One of the trumpeters entered the hall and blew the Queen’s fanfare. Sun saw Tadius stand straighter in preparation, shoulders back and head held high.

Everyone turned and in the silence, Tadius announced. “Esteemed nobles, I present to you our wise and just Queen and Saviour of the Realm: Ella of the House of Ashmore. The Starlit!”

The Queen entered and the room bowed and curtseyed. Sun was glad to see the dress was just as stunning as when she had helped the Queen into it: the overcoat was a deep jade with swirling silver patterns embroidered into it reminiscent of stars. Underneath, the tunic had a panel of silver cloth with the recurring pattern of a leafless tree; the design of its thin branches just visible if you came close enough. Her hair was pulled up into a high bun and she wore a thin, silver crown adorned with diamonds; her signature silver leaf necklace hung proudly above her breastbone. Head high and expression neutral, she truly looked every inch a queen.

“Long may she reign!” Tadius called.

The room echoed his words and Sun felt the vibrations of their voices against her skin. A quick glance around showed mostly deferential or neutral expressions.

Tadius held out his hand for Queen Ella to take as support to step onto the dais. Breaking out of her regal stare, she smiled at him: her love evident in her eyes.

For that reason alone Sun could not truly resent their Queen: her love was true and ultimately unselfish. Sun just hoped it would not be overshadowed by duty or the weight of the court’s egos. 

Having safely made it up to her seat at the centre of the royal table, the Queen looked around the room.

“My lords, ladies and dearest nobles. I welcome you all to my castle. I wish to thank you for aiding me in my first year as your Queen. As many of you know I was not trained for rule so I must thank in particular the members of my council for their wise guidance and endless patience.”

She nodded to the council members around the room and then looked to Tadius - who was standing behind his place at the end of the table to Queen Ella’s left.

Sun had assumed he would be sitting beside the Queen - as the old Queen had been next to the old King when she’d been alive. Perhaps that had been why Miss Han had been muttering about rank-obsessed nobles the other day.

“I would have been quite lost without them.” The Queen continued, still looking at Tadius.

His smile turned slightly embarrassed but he did not look away.

The Queen took a breath in and addressed the room again. “Let us feast and be merry!”

A small cheer went up and everyone sat. Servers brought out the first course of cold meats and green leaf vegetables and Sun hovered behind the Royal table, ready. The Queen struck up a conversation with Lord Sean of Mountshead on her right. At the end of the other side of the table, Lord Juan of House Lorca was talking to Tadius. Sun could not make out enough to discern the topic but by the lord’s body language it seemed aimable.

The band, led by Butsaya, played some of the classic feast songs. Around the room the conversations seemed lively and the atmosphere was jovial. Sun’s gaze was restless as she looked around the room but as Tadius relaxed, so did she. 

All had been prepared, everyone just had to keep it all going.

…

Queen Ella was half-focused on Lord Giovanni’s tale and half on not spilling chocolate sauce on her beautiful dress. There was a festive air in the Great Hall she appreciated despite knowing of the many knights patrolling outside and the butterflies in Ella’s stomach. While she had exchanged nods with Lady Silverhead, the pair had not spoken as the latter was on the right end of the table. Likewise Lady Livia was on another table and had not met Ella’s gaze.

Everyone Ella had spoken to thus far had been courteous and jovial, the serving of dinner had seemed to have been without problems so she was cautiously optimistic that the whole night would go well.

The glimpses she’d caught of Tadius showed he was not relaxed exactly but did not seem anxious. 

Earlier, before the ball, he had come up to see her as Sun and the seamstress had been helping her into her dress. Ella had called him in and he’d come around the changing screen, not yet dressed in his outfit but his hair had been smoother and slicker than she’d ever seen it. When she’d pointed it out he’d sheepishly told her Lady Siobhan had sent her son’s attendant with some cream by which everyone in House Mountshead apparently swore.

“Do you like it?” Tadius had asked her.

Ella had smiled, undecided.

“You don’t.” Tadius had guessed.

“I like your hair as it is normally.” Ella had corrected primly. “But this is good too.”

Tadius had sent her a doubting look but hadn’t challenged her. Instead he had softened a little and wished her luck.

As Queen Ella was expected to be the last to arrive so she had loitered in her rooms, peering down at the carriages arriving until Halima had run up to fetch her.

“Master Tadius is doing well.” Halima had reported unprompted, making Ella smile.

At the end of the last course, Ella wanted to get the idle small talk over and done with. As Queen she was expected to stay in order to speak with the majority of the guests and dance to some songs, but there was also the custom of the monarch leaving before the end to allow the nobles more leeway to let loose.

That custom, Ella was glad to follow.

She managed a merry laugh at the conclusion of Giovanni’s story and turned her head, sensing a presence.

It was Rachel. “We’re ready to clear when you are, your Grace.”

Ella gave her nod. On her left side, Lord James of House Peters raised a questioning eyebrow and Ella smiled. He stood, clearing his throat and rapping his knuckles on the tables.

“Good nobles!” Calling the attention of the room. “Your Queen wishes to speak!”

The conversation petered out and the band stopped. Ella stood in the quiet.

“Noble members of my court, I welcome you to dance if you wish and keep drinking!”

“Here, here!” Lord James cried and the room joined in.

People began to rise and mingle. Another presence at Ella’s shoulder. She turned her head and smiled wider.

“Tadius.”

“My Queen.” He held out his hand, supporting her as she rose. “I do hope you will save me a dance once you’ve attended to your guests.”

Holding back an unladylike snort, Ella hummed. “Perhaps I might.” She looked over to see Lady Silverhead still in her seat. “Let us go speak to our special guests.”

Tadius glanced over and then looked back at Ella, nodding. With Tadius on her arm, Ella walked back down the front of the table to arrive facing Lady Sofia Silverhead and her daughter, Louise.

“My Queen.” The ladies rose and curtseyed.

“Please, let me not disturb your digestion.” Ella said.

“Fear not, my Queen. My mother has an iron stomach.” Lady Louise replied.

The tone was plain enough but something about the way the lady avoided Ella’s eyes made her uneasy.

“The dinner was delectable, my Queen.” Lady Silverhead said. “Louise and I were just talking about the duck.”

“Melt in the mouth.” Louise agreed.

“Well, I will pass the compliments to the cooks.” Ella replied.

There was a beat where no one said anything. Lady Silverhead cut a very quick glance to her daughter who was still averting her gaze.

“Once the dancing begins in earnest, Butsaya will be playing in the Lesser Hall, for those interested.” Tadius said.

“Do I not look like a dancer?” Lady Silverhead challenged, though her tone was light enough to suggest she was more teasing than offended.

Tadius replied smoothly. “Pardon me for saying, my lady, if I say you look like someone who appreciates performances of Reina’s Pilgrimage.”

Indeed Lady Silverhead’s head tilted in interest. 

“On the harp.” Tadius added.

Something like admiration played over the lady’s face. “That is quite the feat.”

Ella was not familiar with that particular song, so was not sure why it was interesting, but she knew Bustaya was a talented musician and Tadius was well educated in the arts. She felt a burst of pride at Tadius’ attention to detail and apparent success at estimating Lady Silverhead’s taste.

“Perhaps I will look in.” Lady Silverhead said. Then she indicated to her daughter. “Dear Louise is more of a dancer, are you not?”

“Later, I think,” Louise demurred, smiling awkwardly.

“Of course, the night is still young.” Ella reassured. She looked at Tadius and saw agreement there. “Well,” she said to the ladies, “please do enjoy yourselves.”

“I am sure we will, your Grace.” Lady Silverhead answered.

Tadius took up Ella’s elbow again and they walked to the nearest table. With a wide smile, Lord Andrew introduced them to his wife, Lady Winifred. A tall woman, judging by her height in her seat, with laugh lines around her eyes. As she had trouble walking sometimes she did not rise to curtsey, instead bowing her head in greeting. Ella inclined her head back and Tadius bowed.

“The duck was excellent.” The lady praised.

Ella again accepted the compliment on behalf of her cooks but was dismayed when Lord Andrew began a discussion of the different merits of fowl and four-legged meat. Lady Winifred joined in with a spark in her eyes and Tadius contributed a few comments but it was clear House Fawncourt had more impassioned opinions on the subject than Tadius or Ella. Andrew was of the opinion fowl was all-round the better meat while Winifred agreed up to a point but could not let go of the view that pork was the most delicious. Unwilling to move on too quickly, Ella nodded along politely. 

Suddenly, Tadius frowned minutely at something in the distance and squeezed Ella’s arm, murmuring. “Forgive me.”

Before Ella could protest, he’d bowed to the Fawncourt’s and abandoned her. She tried not to watch him go through the crowd and pay attention to the conversation, something which was made easier as he vanished quickly. Luckily a few minutes later, when the Fawncourts were arguing the fat content of duck versus pork, Lord Edoardo came up with his daughters.

“My Lady Winifred!” He greeted enthusiastically.

Winifred looked a moment away from rolling her eyes as she returned the greeting.

“Fabulous duck, wasn’t it?” Edoardo addressed the whole group.

As he glanced at Ella, he sent her a lightning fast wink. The Fawncourts launched back into their argument with Edoardo bringing new energy.

Ella gladly turned to Lady Ginevra and Mariana, opening with a generic question about the feast.

“Oh yes, we are enjoying it!” The pair agreed.

“Messers Kendall’s playing!” Mariana added with stars in her eyes. “I still don’t know how they do those trills!”

“What type of song is your favourite, my Queen?” Ginevra asked.

Ella happily talked about music and dancing with the two girls, though she started to feel her age. Had she ever really been that young and carefree? Had there been a time when everything seemed so new and exciting?

A presence at her elbow made her turn around. “Tadius!”

“My Queen, ladies.” He indicated to the man next to him. “Have you met Sir Aaron of the House Thornbush?”

“I have not had the pleasure.” Ella replied, glad Tadius had said the name.

Indeed, though he looked to be a decade older than Ella, he had such a handsome face she thought her younger self would have remembered. He must be from the lower branches of the Thornbush tree.

“The pleasure and honour are all mine.” Sir Aaron replied, bowing deeply.

“Master Tadius!” Ginevra cried. 

“We’ve heard all about you.” Mariana gushed, eyes bright as she looked up at him.

Tadius’ eyebrows rose - though whether at the words or enthusiasm was hard to tell. “Oh?”

“Good things!” Ginevra added.

“What unreliable sources.” Tadius rejoined, glancing at Ella as if for help.

Since he’d abandoned her earlier, she just smiled serenely back at him. Behind him, she saw Lord Edoardo glance over from his conversation with the Fawncourts. He took in the scene and smiled at Ella as if to say ‘enjoy the show’.

Ginevra and Mariana giggled at Tadius’ joke. “They never said you were funny!”

Looking around the group, he began to ask. “Can I ge-”

“Do you know the Spider Dance, Master Tadius?” Mariana asked.

Tadius froze like he could sense danger. A sensible response seeing as that was the current dance happening as they spoke and dancers could join at any time. The name came from both the angular shapes the dancers made with their arms and the web shape as they stepped in and out of two circles - the smaller one inside the larger one. It was a jaunty tune and the dance was likewise a bit silly. Ella had fond memories of dancing it with the Grizzwald sisters.

She bit back a smile. The Brambilla sisters were harmless, still too focused on fun and games to seriously pursue any suitors, and their guardian Lord Edoardo would be within sight the entire time they pulled Tadius into a dance. 

“Have you spoken to Messers Kendall yet?” Tadius offered instead.

“Oh,” Mariana twirled a curl of her hair, “we could not disturb them while they’re playing.”

“That would not be considerate.” Ginevra added, though her interest in the offer was clear.

“Let’s do it anyway.” Tadius said, sending Ella a glance.

Such a look would ostensibly be for permission, but his eyes seemed to say ‘if you won’t help me, I’ll save myself’. Ella smirked slightly.

The Brambilla’s agreed and once the three were halfway to the bards, Sir Aaron said. “I am glad to see Your Grace has a sense of humour.”

“Oh?”

“Yes, I am afraid the last monarch was quite without mirth, at least after the death of his wife.”

Ella did some quick arithmetic in her head and felt it not offensive to ask. “Did you know the late Queen?”

The knight’s voice was soft and sad as he replied. “Not well, your Grace. I had only just earned my knighthood when she passed.” Then he brightened. “But my husband was her favourite groomsman. He has some stories to tell.”

Ella had acquainted herself with every castle staff member so took a moment to consider the groomsmen she knew. Which one was married to a knight?

Sir Aaron smiled and explained. “He retired a few years back, your Grace. An old injury flared up and made his work difficult.”

“I am sorry to hear it.”

“I will convey such to him,” Aaron’s smile shifted, “though he is always first to claim he married me for a life of leisure.” The affection in his tone undercut the words.

Ella chuckled. “A sensible man.”

“Ha! Yes, very. Though between your Grace and I,” he leaned in, “I wish he took more time for leisure. The estate of my father has enough porters and other servants to do the tasks he busies himself with.”

Imagining a man much like Tadius and his itchy feet, Ella commiserated. “Making a nuisance of himself, is he?”

Sir Aaron mock-sighed.

They continued talking about the lesser estate of House Thornbush - Sir Aaron completely unpretentious and unoffended as he reminded Ella of his house’s family tree - how Sir Aaron had wooed his husband - “mostly by pretending to forget how to properly adjust my horse’s saddle” - and the ball. Alas, they were eventually joined by ladies from House Eschen, clearly vying for Ella’s favour, and Sir Aaron excused himself.

Ella was sad to see him go. While Lady Christina, her sister Barbara and their adult daughters Margreth and Annelies were perfectly pleasant, well…Again, Ella was forced to talk about how good the duck had been and Messrs Kendall’s prowess on the lute and her beautiful dress. While Ella appreciated the compliments, they felt too perfunctory and unoriginal to give her too much joy.

“My Queen!” Crumb popped up mercifully.

“Ah!” Lady Margreth jumped and grabbed onto her cousin.

“Excuse me, my ladies.” Crumb said to the crowd.

Ella bent down a little and addressed him. “Yes, my squire?”

“I wanted to know if you had made the acquaintance of Lady Jenny of Fort Lyn?” He waved to the lady behind him.

Ella smiled up at her briefly, noting the modest dress, before asking Crumb lowly. “For any particular reason?”

“She’s really nice!” Crumb replied without an ounce of shame.

Or perhaps he really did not have an agenda beyond ‘finding her friends’, as he had told her the week before. Rising, Ella found the Eschen women cooing at Crumb, evidently having recovered from their surprise.

“Look at his little ears!” Lady Barbara exclaimed.

“Is that a tail?” Lady Annelies asked rhetorically.

Crumb seemed unsure how to receive their comments, his ears flicking back and causing another round of cooing.

Ella decided to not waste the opportunity with which her squire had presented her. “Lady Jenny, have you seen the Swamp Tapestry?”

Taking the hint, Jenny replied in the negative and Ella excused them from the group. The Swamp Tapestry had caused some bemusement when Ella had ordered it woven. No one but Sir Hop and Crumb had understood why the Queen would want artwork of such a damp and dirty place in the castle. The weavers had captured the life of the place: creatures big and small roamed the green and grey landscape with silver threads outlining their eyes. In the back of the scene, the old Oak stood proudly, adorned with red and yellow leaves. Ella loved it and when she had time, she would sometimes walk past the Great Hall just so she could look at the tapestry.

Once she had admired the tapestry for a moment, Jenny said. “Master Crumb is a good-hearted creature.”

Ella noted the warmth in the observation and agreed readily. “What did you talk about with him?” She asked.

“What I thought of the ball and yourself…and Master Tadius.”

At this Ella glanced over the room, catching sight of her lover in the crowd. He had evidently reunited Lord Edoardo’s daughters with their father and was talking to Lord and Lady Darlana. In his doublet and with his usual straight-backed posture, he would look the same as any noble to none who knew him.

Ella looked back to Jenny, who was pretending to scrutinise the tapestry. Seeing no point in coyness, Ella instead let a little exasperation show as she said. “I did not ask anyone for their help in this arena and yet…”

“They care a lot about you.” Jenny suggested, turning to look at Ella.

That was a truth Ella could not deny. She said ruefully. “I am very lucky.”

Jenny smiled. “I am glad.”

Ella believed her. She asked. “I confess, Lady Jenny, I do not know your family well.”

“Ah, well, we are a relatively new house. My brother inherited the seat from our mother,” Jenny hesitated before explaining, “one of the previous King’s lovers. He was kind enough to grant her lands.” She stopped talking a little abruptly, perhaps changing her mind of how much information to give.

Ella kept as neutral an expression as possible, not wanting to show judgement. Instead she asked Jenny’s opinion on the tapestry and received a thoughtful answer. 

“All the animals and plants seem to revolve around the tree,” she said, pointing at the roots, “and in turn the tree draws on them.”

That was close to how Ella saw it, so she smiled. Then, feeling the effect of a few glasses of wine, she said. “Excuse me.”

Jenny curtseyed. “My Queen.”

Ella left to go to the royal washroom - incredibly thankful there was one so close to the hall reserved only for her. Halima nodded at her and made to stand at the door, earning herself a smile. 

Ella was secondly thankful that the seamstress was an eminently practical person who had made her dress easy to pin up by herself. Preserving her dignity in the privy was quite high on Ella’s list of priorities when it came to formal wear.

Once done, Ella was washing her hands in the basin when someone opened the door. It was a lady Ella didn’t recognise. Her white skin was very pale and something about that tickled the back of Ella’s mind.

“Oh.” She managed to say.

“Your Grace, apologies for the intrusion.” The lady had a melodic voice that was familiar.

“There’s another wash-” Ella began but was cut off.

“We just wanted to thank you.” The lady stepped closer, expression earnest. “For repealing the cruel laws that had held us down for so long.”

The air in the room seemed to thin. How had the lady entered the room without any sound? Was Halima still there? Had the usher not seen the lady? Ella looked more closely at her, though she was beginning to doubt she was truly a human woman. 

“Your Grace has truly given all of us a lifeline.” The being reached into her pocket.

“It was the right thing to do.” Ella’s mouth answered as her mind thought of Sir Hop-A-Lot.

The lady smiled and air rushed back into Ella’s lungs. She relaxed and watched as the lady drew out a long, nubbly…glass? It was yellow and green and reminded Ella of a hollow tree trunk, yet it fit in one’s hand. 

“This is a lightening stone*.” The mystery lady turned it over in her hand and the smooth edges caught the light of the candle. “May it help you discern the true feelings of yourself and others.” She held it out.

Ella still held onto caution. “Who do I have to thank for this gift?”

The woman-creature tilted her head. “I represent all of my kind on this plane, your Grace. Please.”

Slowly, Ella reached out and as soon as her fingers brushed the polished stone, the world exploded into colours. Bright shapes swirled in front of her eyes and something sharp and acrid hit her tongue. The world buzzed under Ella’s skin.

Then the washroom came back into focus, the single candle lighting to the small room as normal. Ella was holding the stick and she was alone.

Swallowing and trying to calm her racing heart, Ella put the gift in her pocket.

Sir Hop was outside the door. “My Queen, are you alright?”

Ella nodded. “Yes. Thank you.”

Halima was there too, frowning between the two of them. Confident she knew what had happened, Ella decided not to explain. There would be time later to ponder over the gift and what exactly it meant.

“How are things on your end?” She asked her Captain of the Guard.

“Very well, your Grace!” He reported with a gleam in his eyes. “No one is acting suspiciously and no intruders have breached the perimetre!”

“Very good.” Ella did not correct him. “Carry on.”

Sir Hop bowed and went off. Sensing Halima standing to attention, Ella sent her a reassuring smile then straightened her shoulders.

Back into the fray.

Chapter Text

Tadius looked around the Great Hall and steadied his breathing. Queen Ella had only been introduced to two people on his list - thanks to Crumb’s assistance - and it was getting late. Ella had said she wanted to dance just a few dances, as she was rusty, and then leave to give people enough time to relax after she left.

The Dance Master had been eager to help the Queen practise, arranging a quick lesson so Ella could remember the steps she’d learned in her girlhood. Unfortunately Tadius had been busy dealing with a last minute menu change so he hadn’t been able to attend as well. As he had danced at the last ball he had felt confident he could hold his own, and a great many other things had commanded his attention.

That had held true up until he had made a stupid quip about Ella saving him a dance. What had he been thinking? Why hadn’t he practised at all? Every important noble in the realm would be watching. Failing an actual lesson, Tadius could have even just taken Ella around her rooms - she probably would have liked that.

Looking around the Great Hall as he waited for her to return, Tadius took stock of the ball so far as he pushed down his anxiety.

The dinner seemed to have been well-received and everyone was praising the music. There had only been minor jockeying for the Queen’s attention, which the council members had helped to curb.

As for Tadius himself, he hadn’t made any faux-pas in the greetings and had even managed to maintain a friendly conversation with Lord Lorca, one of the people he was most nervous to meet. 

Amazingly the Lord had been quite warm: remembering Tadius’ name, asking about his life and taking his opinions on the origin of Oscuros, the God of Miracles and Darkness, seriously. Some people sparked philosophical conversations purely to hear themselves talk but Lord Lorca had proved to be genuinely interested in Tadius’ answers. There had only been one hairy moment when Lady Livia had appeared in between courses to greet her lord. She had not even looked Tadius’ way - which he’d been thankful for - but Lord Lorca had mentioned him, forcing the lady to acknowledge him. One frosty look was fine with Tadius.

He hadn't been able to help looking down at his bare finger, though. So busy with preparations, Tadius had still not found a chain, thus his council ring was tucked away in a draw. He had not told Ella about the encounter, unsure of her opinion on his rejoining the council. While he knew something had made Ella agitated at the council meeting with Lady Livia, it seemed conceited to assume it was something to do with himself. Tadius had dragged his gaze away from his finger, telling himself there was no point in worrying over it in the middle of a ball.

Happily Lord Lorca had changed the subject, praising the choice of light purple Double Blooms on his chair - the flowers had round petals at the end of the stem and then a second layer about a finger tip’s length down the stem. Decidedly not an expert on flowers, Tadius had always thought they looked a little awkward but the Head Gardener had enthusiastically assured him of their value due to their rarity. Further, when Tadius had consulted Lady Siobhan, she had told him in Lord Lorca’s region, Double Blooms were sometimes used as a good luck charm or lovers shared out the petals between them so the relationship would last.

“He’d like to share some petals with Lady Dolores, I’d bet!” She had said excitedly.

Thus Tadius had made sure to credit Lady Siobhan with the choice and the Lord had remarked he would thank her later. The Lord had also mentioned Lady Dolores’ visit to the castle and related how welcome she had felt, as well as how enamoured she was with her gift from the Queen’s stables. Tadius’ heart rate had picked up during the Lord’s words, but he could not read any censure or disapproval in the tone. Indeed, the Lord had been smiling gently.

After dinner, a neutral conversation with the Silverheads and his escape from Lord Edoardo’s daughters, Lady Maja of House Darlana had made a point to speak to him, introducing Tadius to her husband. While the Lord seemed more interested in his wine than conversation, Lady Maja had told Tadius that little Birgitte still talked about her visit to the castle. Tadius’ answering smile had been immediate and genuine.

Further, it seemed Tadius’ ally in finding friends for the Queen had become very popular. Crumb had drawn stares during the dinner but once the post-meal mingling had started, curiosity had only grown. At that current moment, Crumb was seated on Lady Ginerva’s lap as a group around him chatted happily. Tadius leaned in, focusing on the small squire, and surmised he did not require rescuing - yet.

As Lady Ali had not attended the ball, the next person on Tadius’ potential noble companion list was Lady Floriana. She was a distant relative of the Infant Lady Ivana of House Leonardi - if Tadius remembered rightly Floriana was the third cousin of the Infant Lady’s late mother. Given her low rank within a highly esteemed family, the lady had taken advantage of her older siblings getting married by packing her bags and travelling around the Lands That Are with a small band of like-minded ladies. Tadius and the Prince had actually encountered them in a small town on the way to The Weeping Keep. The Prince had found bedmates quickly so Tadius had gratefully accepted the invitation to play cards with Lady Floriana and some of the other, more discerning ladies; their stories had been entertaining and their manner very loose and carefree. Just the kind of fun the Queen could use in her life.

At the ball, Tadius greeted the lady with a bow and she smiled.

“Master Tadius.”

Happy she remembered him, Tadius struck up a conversation and was further pleased that she was as articulate and sharp-minded as he recalled. However, when she congratulated him on his new position, his smile had stiffened. It seemed that everyone who had known him as the prince’s manservant had an opinion on his appointment as the Queen’s lover. He was not looking forward to hearing Lady Floriana’s.

“Yes,” he forced a chuckle, “I’m as surprised as you are.”

The lady’s dark eyes held his seriously for a moment. Then her smile softened. “Actually, I was thinking that the Queen is a lucky woman.”

Adding kindness to the lady’s list of attributes, Tadius bowed his head and tried to think of something else to say. Fortunately for him at that moment Queen Ella came back into the room.

Tadius asked the lady quickly. “Have you talked with the Queen yet?”

“I have not yet had the honour.” Lady Floriana replied. “So, have I passed the test?”

Tadius coughed, hoping to cover his embarrassment at being so obvious.

“Perhaps we are too late.” The lady said.

Tadius frowned and looked back over at the Queen. Sure enough, Lord Giovanni and Edoardo were talking to her. It would be rude to interrupt so soon.

“No, just early.” Tadius said with more confidence than he felt.

He had no idea if Lord Giovanni had any opinion on Tadius’ existence and did not look forward to interrupting a Lord from such a high House.

“How long have you known the Queen?” Lady Floriana asked.

Tadius took a beat to respond as he realised no one had ever asked him that before. 

“Just over a year. We met-” Tadius hesitated, not sure if Ella wanted anyone to know of their river meeting, “at the Prince’s Ball.”

Lady Floriana nodded along and then stepped in, lowering her voice a little. “Are the stories true?”

“That depends on to which stories you are referring.”

The lady’s eyes glittered with interest. “The magical dress, the powerful light, the destruction of the trolls?”

Tadius cast his mind back: why hadn’t Lady Floriana been at the wedding? It had been hastily called on and as she had been uninterested in marrying the Prince it stood to reason she had not been close enough to make it in time.

“It’s all true.” He said simply. “She saved us all from a terrible fate.”

He watched Lady Floriana’s face as she took in his words and let out a long breath, willing the jittery feeling he got whenever he remembered that day to be released with the air.

When she regarded him again, it appeared that she had accepted his words as truth.

“Forgive my curiosity, Consort. No matter how many witnesses I speak to, the story just seems more and more incredible.”

That, Tadius could believe.

He shot another glance over to the Queen and the lords. It had probably been long enough and Lady Floriana was technically a member of House Leonardi - though distant - so she was known to Lord Giovanni. He suggested they head over and the lady agreed. 

The centre of the room was full of dancers so they wound their way around the edge of the space, dodging Kendall as the bard walked backwards, strumming away.

“For all the wondrous and bizarre things I have seen in the Lands That Are, I do believe Messrs Kendall is still the strangest.” The lady commented, affection softening her words.

She was not the first to express affection or preference for Kendall. Tadius made a note to discuss the question of bard-in-residence with the Queen and Miss Han at some point, as well as Lord Martin. Perhaps the entertainment budget could be expanded.

To Lady Floriana, he said vaguely. “They are unique, tis true.”

They reached the Queen and she half-turned almost as soon as they stopped. Her smile was radiant.

Heart full for having seen it, and relieved he didn’t need to verbally interrupt, Tadius bowed to everyone and presented the lady to the Queen.

“Ah, the Roving Lady.” Lord Giovanni commented afore anyone else.

The man was too refined to let disapproval show plainly but there was a tightness around his lips that betrayed his opinion. 

Lady Floriana showed no acknowledgement, simply curtseying. “Dear cousin. I hope your lands fare well.”

The lord’s expression shifted minutely but he only gave a rote answer. Queen Ella sent Tadius a questioning look.

He explained lowly. “Lady Floriana has been travelling the Lands That Are for a few years now.”

“Yes, she is an adventurous spirit. An example to us all!” Lord Edoardo said enthusiastically. “Do tell us a tale, Flo! Where have you been this time?”

With a gracious smile, she told a short story of her carriage getting stuck in a bog and a number of forest creatures appearing, seemingly attracted by her friend’s lute playing.

“For we were quite bored as the coachmen attempted to pull it free. Apparently so were the animals!”

The whole experience sounded a wet and miserable one to Tadius but the energy and light in the lady’s telling transmitted humour. Indeed, Lord Edoardo laughed at her comment, though he was also listing ever so slightly. Some of his mirth could have been from drink, Tadius supposed.

“My lords,” Tadius began as the laughter trailed off, “I do believe Messrs Kendall is taking requests for-”

Lord Edoardo jumped at the implied suggestion and nudged the other lord. “Come on, my lord. Let us make our voices known!”

Though he glanced at the Queen and Lady Floriana, Lord Giovanni didn’t argue, instead bowing to the women and following Tadius over to the bard. There were enthusiastic greetings between Lord Edoardo and Kendall, with Lord Giovanni smiling magnanimously in the face of the bard’s flattery. Tadius lingered a moment but when he was sure the men would be suitably distracted for a while, bowed and slipped away.

Again he walked around the centre of the hall, keeping Ella in the corner of his eye. He made it halfway before his path became blocked.

“Lady Louise.” He blurted as soon as he recognised the shape.

“Master Tadius.” The lady replied, voice thin and eyes roving.

“My lady,” he leaned in as he noted sweat on her brow, “are you well?”

She swayed a little. “It is quite hot in here. Is there…?” Her voice trailed off.

Struck by the fear she would faint imminently, Tadius sprang into action. “Yes, this way,” he stepped in and held out his elbow.

She took it, grip a touch stronger than he was expecting, and followed him out to the balcony. Tadius tried to keep his breathing steady. The lady would hopefully only require a moment or two in the fresh air before recovering. If not, he could signal to whoever was stationed on the balcony. 

Miss Han had very firmly established she would organise the distribution and responsibility of servants during the evening so Tadius didn’t know who…

On the balcony was only the elderly Lord Benjamin, propped up on a bench - deep asleep. 

Tadius led the lady over to the railing overlooking the gardens as he tried to surreptitiously scan the area. Where was the assigned attendant? Suddenly he could not remember if Sir Hop had decided to put a knight there or not.

Lady Louise let go of him to lean her hands on the railing. Taking advantage of that, Tadius stepped back and half-turned, looking at the sleeping lord while keeping the lady in the corner of his eye. Throughout the course of a minute or so, she seemed to have steadied, standing straighter and breathing in deeply. 

Lord Benjamin shifted in his sleep, drawing Tadius’ full attention. Should he fetch the lord’s daughter or son-in-law?

“She won’t be forgiven.” 

Tadius blinked, belatedly realising the lady had spoken. Focusing his gaze on her profile, he quickly tried to parse her words. Surely she was not referring to the Queen?

“Pardon?” He managed finally.

“I do not care how good and wise she is.” The lady spat, still looking out over the gardens. “She killed my brother.”

Ah, so that is what she meant. Tadius pressed his lips together as he considered different responses, ranging from fierce to neutral. The younger Silverhead lady did not seem to be as careful as her mother, or perhaps she was simply too loyal to her brother’s memory to give as much import to future consequences for her living family.

Tadius’ offence on behalf of the Queen was tempered by the knowledge the lady was likely going against her mother’s wishes. Though he wondered why she was bothering to air her grievances to him at all. She had seemed truly to be suffering from the stuffiness of the hall so perhaps it had been pure misfortune for them both that he had been the closest person to aid her.

“Our Queen punished one of her subjects for the crime of treason.” He replied evenly.

Lady Louise sniffed sharply. “You’re all fools.” She muttered. “Odious toads.”

“Sir Hop-A-Lot is a frog, actually.” Tadius said before he could think about it.

Lip curling, the lady hissed. “I will never let you touch me. Not if you were the last man in the Lands That Are.”

Tadius blinked, completely at a loss as to what prompted the comment. Was it an accusation? He took an instinctive step back, suddenly fearing she was about to scream. Where was that attendant? In his moments of hesitation, the lady had not moved or said anything else. Her back remained firm, hands clasped in front of her, her face turned to the dark of the night. Lord Benjamin slept on.

Taking another step back, Tadius decided to cut his losses. “I will find someone to escort you to your carriage.” His mouth hung open a moment before he decided to add. “I am sorry for your loss.”

The lady’s head snapped around, eyes burning as she near-snarled. “I need no pity from a servant!”

Tadius stood his ground as he replied. “Luckily it is not pity I offer.”

“Nor is he a servant.” A voice called from behind him.

Tadius turned to see Lord Jacob of House Silverhead approaching. Shorter than Tadius and just shy of his eighteenth birthday, the lord nonetheless was a commanding presence. Tadius bowed and the Lord nodded at him before addressing his sister again.

“We should not let grief cause us to become shut-ins, ignorant of how the world changes.”

Lady Louise’s eyes flashed but she stayed silent. Tadius looked between the siblings, trying to gauge the dynamics. While Lady Louise was now the eldest Silverhead sibling, and would therefore inherit her mother's title, Lord Jacob did not seem very deferential. Did that contribute to the lady's bitterness? Tadius wondered.

With one more glare at Tadius the lady marched to the door, hissing something at her brother on the way.

Once she had gone, Lord Jacob grimaced at Tadius. “Forgive my sister, Consort. The wound is still fresh.” His brow furrowed. “She does not speak for our house.”

Feeling steadier, Tadius waved a hand. “I understand, my lord. No offense was taken on my part.”

The lord took a guess. “She insulted the Queen?”

Tadius tilted his head in affirmation.

Lord Jacob ducked his head, muttering something under his breath. He popped back up again swiftly, though. “Please accept my apologies on behalf of my house. We are loyal to the Crown.”

Tadius had no magical powers to discern the honesty of a person’s words, but he could see nothing but earnestness in Lord Jacob’s eyes.

“Your mother has made her allegiance clear.” Tadius reassured. “And the Great Hall can become hot and stifling. Lightheadedness can be terribly disorientating.”

Lord Jacob nodded. “No truer words have been spoken.” 

Tadius considered his idea a moment before venturing. “Perhaps the Lady Louise would like to remain to take care of the Estate whenever the Queen holds her next event.”

“An excellent suggestion.” The Lord replied with no sign of offence. “I will relate it to my mother to consider.”

Lord Jacob’s posture was proud, but sorrow was etched on his face.

Tadius bowed and offered. “I am sorry for your loss, my lord.”

“Thank you.” Lord Jacob replied, voice slightly hoarse.

Tadius nodded his head. He was about to request the lord stay with Lord Benjamin until Tadius could summon help but saw a hesitation on the young lord’s face. Patiently, Tadius waited.

“Master Tadius? Lord Andrew has never spoken of that day, beyond the bare bones.” Lord Jacob opened his mouth to say more but hesitated.

He smiled awkwardly, looking chagrined. It was clear to which day he was referring; the same day that haunted Lady Louise. His feelings were better hidden than his sister’s but not completely unknowable.

Tadius considered what he would want to know in the same circumstances and said. “It was quick. Clean.”

Lord Jacob looked up with rapt attention and suddenly he was only a boy.

As gently as he could, Tadius said. “I do not believe he felt a thing.”

Another long, vulnerable moment, and then the lord nodded. Voices approached from the doors, drawing both men’s attention.

The Lord cleared his throat and puffed his chest a little, saying quickly. “Thank you, Consort.”

Tadius bowed and as more guests came out to the balcony, the Lord went back in. Letting out a long breath, Tadius slid his way past the guests and went to find someone to attend to the heaviest sleeping lord he had ever known.

…

Lady Siobhan gave her escort a reassuring smile and chivied him towards the Queen.

Gods knew it was perhaps her last chance to introduce her Grace to a new suitor before the respectable part of the evening ended. 

The lady had been dismayed that almost all of her potential suitors had fallen through: Lord Grantham and Sir Hayweather had made excuses and not attended; Lord Cumberworth had told her he’d recently reconciled with his estranged wife and Lord Akito and Augusto had said they did not feel they were compatible with the Queen. Infuriatingly they had not explained further and from the wide eyes and stammers, Lady Siobhan would have said they were scared of her Grace.

Lady Siobhan held back a sigh. Evidently the younger generation were a more sensitive lot. The Queen executes one former suitor - for treason! - and the rest start quaking in their boots. Luckily the head of her cousin Sean’s guard, Sir Fenton, was a brave and kindly man.

While a little older than her Grace, by perhaps seven or eight years, he had no white in his black hair and beard nor any visible wrinkles in his skin. Lady Siobhan had heard from her personal maid the rumours of the knight’s prowess in the bedchambers. Not the kind of prolific to suggest a fixation or a vice for carnal relations but enough to make the staff at Lord Sean’s estate happy to form an orderly queue for a chance with him.

Lady Siobhan was hoping Sir Fenton would please the Queen, even in a friendly way. At the very least such a relationship would be a balm to people like Lady Livia.

They were in sight of the Queen, who was chatting to Lady Floriana of House Leonardi. An unconventional lady, Siobhan thought, though not one of ill repute. In fact, she was exactly the kind of person with whom the Queen might get along. Indeed, the pair were laughing as Siobhan and Sir Fenton sidled up.

“Oh, Lady Siobhan!” The Queen acknowledged. “Have you heard Lady Floriana’s tale of seeing pixies at play?”

“Alas, I have not.”

Lady Floriana smiled, though her eyes darted between the lady and the knight. “I would be happy to relate it at her lady’s pleasure.”

Siobhan nodded in thanks for the implicit offer for a later telling and introduced the knight.

He bowed once Siobhan had announced him. “My Queen.”

Queen Ella smiled. “The Mountshead estate is near the Bridge of Felldoom, is it not?”

“Correct, your Grace.” 

“I imagine goblins are a constant threat.” The Queen commented.

The knight straightened a little more, surprise playing over his features. “Well, yes. For the unprepared that is true.” 

He paused but when the Queen gave him time, he continued; explaining the measures he implemented to maintain the security around the Mounsthead Keep. Lady Siobhan nodded along, not quite following, but she was pleased to see the Queen seemed interested.

“Perhaps, my lady,” Siobhan said to Lady Floriana, “we might retire to the Lesser Hall and you might delight me with your tale.”

Graciously the lady agreed and they both curtseyed to the Queen.

On the way out of the hall, they passed the table occupied by the Mouse Squire. A half dozen ladies were gathered around him and the conversation seemed lively. The mouse was standing on a chair and waving his little arms as he spoke. Lady Siobhan saw his tail bump into a lady’s arm. Squire Crumb noticed and raised his palms in apology but the lady - one of Edoardo’s daughters - laughed and gestured for the mouse to continue.

“Wonders of the world right on our doorstep.” Lady Floriana commented.

“Quite!” Siobhan agreed. “Even after a year I still want to rub my eyes of sleep when I see them.”

“Were you there?” The young lady asked. “That day?”

Immediately understanding the question, Siobhan shuddered. “Yes, dear one. I will never forget it.”

Lady Floriana’s grip on her elbow tightened and she said lowly. “I think then, my lady, you have a more amazing tale than any of mine.”

Siobhan smiled politely though her mind was already wandering back to the Great Hall and how her candidate was faring with the Queen.

…

Sir Fenton was a handsome man, Ella thought guiltily.

He was also sharp, intelligent and genuinely respectful. Ella asked him his opinion of Lady Siobhan and heard affection in his reply. She asked about his role as Head of Lord Mountshead’s guard and he seemed perfectly content there; no hint of hidden ambition to speak of.

“Might I ask how her Grace is finding the crown?” The knight asked, then added. “Congratulations on one year, by the by.”

“Thank you.” Ella replied genuinely. Not too many had asked her such a question. “It has been quite the journey. I think I have used the phrase ‘let us see’ more than I ever had in my life before!”

Sir Fenton said something else but Ella didn’t catch it, for her eyes had found Tadius in the crowd. He was moving towards her, brow furrowed, but when their eyes met his face cleared. Ella’s lips pulled up on their own accord and she saw an answering smile on his.

He came within touching distance, finally, and Ella’s hand reached out for him. His hand clasped hers and squeezed.

“How goes it?” He asked lowly.

“Well.” Ella murmured.

Then Tadius looked to the side of her. “Sir.”

Ella blinked. What? Oh. Ella’s face heated as she realised she had quite forgotten Sir Fenton was still beside her. She asked quickly if they’d been introduced.

“Not formally.” Sir Fenton said, extending a hand. “Master Tadius.”

Ella reluctantly released Tadius’ hand so he could shake it.

“Sir.” He said. 

Ella focused on the knight’s face and saw nothing amiss in his expression: perfectly pleasant, no thinly-veiled disgust or superiority. Good.

“Pardon the interruption,” Tadius said, “but I believe my Queen it is time for your dance.”

Delighted and relieved, Ella nodded, said goodbye to Sir Fenton and accepted Tadius’ hand again. He led her to the centre of the room amid couples dancing. Messrs Kendall was playing a slower number, more suited for swaying than stomping and clapping.

Ella liked jigs as much as the next person but being held in Tadius’ embrace and stepping in a loose circle suited her well at that moment. Tired of all the polite talk, she just wanted to be alone with him.

They took up the waltz position and Ella let Tadius push her backwards into the dance. Ella was very glad for her sessions with the Dance Master to refresh what she’d learned as a girl.

She was even more happy Tadius was proving to be a confident dancer. 

Rachel and Vishanti had made comments to that effect when chatting to Ella about past events held at the castle. Apparently the castle staff sometimes had the leeway to hold their own celebrations and even though they had their specific types of dances, they did sometimes copy noble styles. As the Prince’s companion since boyhood, Tadius had received much of the same education which meant he was well-versed in said styles.

“He dipped me once.” Vishanti had related with a smile.

Ella had been looking forward to seeing how quickly she could convince him to dip her.

Tadius led her in a small circle, steering them clear of the other dancers, and Ella settled into the rhythm of the steps. 

Though when she looked up, her joy faded on seeing a pensive expression on Tadius’ face. Something was bothering him.

Ella considered, then asked herself if he was jealous of Sir Fenton. She did not believe she had been showing the knight favour but perhaps it had appeared that way. 

Coming at the problem sideways, she said. “Well done.”

“Hm?”

“You are as good a dancer as I was promised.”

Tadius frowned lightly. “Who were you t…?” Then he interrupted himself. “Rachel.”

“And Vishanti. She said you dipped her.”

“I knew I would live to regret that.” Tadius groused, though humour was threaded through his tone.

“Do not say so! I think it was very nice of you.”

Tadius hummed with a doubting tone but his frame loosened a touch. Ella hummed back and Tadius’ eyes twinkle in response.

“My Queen, I would not dare to dip,” He said, then led them in a half-turn and leaned in to whisper in her ear, “but my lover…”

Ella felt warm tingles all over. She beamed up at him as he pulled back.

Then she asked. “So, to check, this now is a dance with your Queen?”

Tadius nodded.

“Are you sure?” Ella asked like butter-wouldn’t-melt even as she slid her hand very slightly down Tadius’ back.

A number of expressions flit over his face until lust won. Though his words were lightly censorious - “my Queen grows bold on red wine I see” - all she saw on his face was desire.

Ella’s cunny clenched and she wanted so badly to be alone and safe with her love. The room full of people was, regrettably, an important consideration.

“And I’ll grow bolder still.” She teased. “By the time we reach our bedchambers, there’s no telling what I’ll do.”

“I cannot wait.” Tadius near-growled in response.

Not wanting the spark of anticipation to burn any brighter, Ella mentally pulled back. 

Tadius seemed to recognise her decision because he asked in his normal voice. “Perhaps a twirl instead?”

Ella nodded and with relative smoothness she managed to twirl under Tadius’ raised arm. Joyful at the simple movement, she laughed. Coming back into her lover’s arms, she saw him smiling down at her and felt a little out of her body.

Who could have known they would ever end up there?

Tadius met her gaze, the crinkles around his eyes deepening as his smile grew. Swallowing down a joyous giggle, Ella ducked her head.

“You were right, my Queen.” He said.

“Hm?” Ella looked up again.

“Balls are more enjoyable with the right person.”

Heart impossibly warm, Ella could only agree. Tadius’ arm tightened around her and Ella leaned in, pressing her cheek to his jaw. Breathing in, she almost gasped as she half-recognised a scent, faint underneath a smell of soap. Pressing her nose in a little more, she became certain: Tadius’ beard smelled of her.

After a whole day of last minute preparations and an evening of dinner and dancing, what they had done that morning was still lingering on him. He had been walking around and having conversations with people while… Ella’s cunny tingled and pressed her lips together to contain a moan.

“Ella?” Tadius whispered, with a hint of concern.

Swallowing, Ella recovered enough composure to order softly. “Take me to bed, Tadius.”

His fingers clenched on her back and in her hand. Her body responded, skin tingling and heat pulsing through her limbs.

After a few breathless moments, he nodded. Stepping back, he bowed to her and turned to catch Kendall’s eye. After a nod, Kendall immediately switched tunes to a goodbye song.

Tadius held out a hand and Ella rested hers on it, gratefully. The nobles around them stopped and bowed as Tadius led Ella out of the Great Hall.

The corridor was much quieter and cooler; Sir Hop stepped to Ella’s side immediately.

“Allow me to escort you, your Grace?” He asked.

Ella tamped down on her impatience and nodded her head. Together the three of them walked up the stairs to the Royal Chambers in silence, passing a number of guards on the way.

“Quite the success, I’d say!” Sir Hop-A-Lot commented when they were in reach of the doors.

“Yes, dear knight.” Ella said, making sure her tone was sincere.

She and Tadius turned to nod at the knight and he looked between them.

“Well,” he said afore Ella could speak, “I suppose this is good night.” His eyes focused on Tadius for a short moment, expression blank, before he bowed to Ella.

“Thank you, Sir.” Ella said.

Another bow and then he was retreating back a few steps to the customary guard spot. Not wanting to wait another second, Ella grabbed Tadius hand and near-hauled him into the room.

As soon as the door was shut, she was upon him. Air puffed into her mouth as he half-chuckled, but his arms were around her then and everything else fell away.

…

Crumb decided he liked balls as long as he was free to move around.

Getting pinned down for long stretches talking to the same people was not as fun as short, standing conversations. Not that the ladies sat around him weren’t nice. They were. It was just that they were also loud.

He was glad when Lady Martha Fawncourt asked him to show her the way to the balcony. He had thanked her on the way and she had winked at him.

“You always need a few excuses ready at these things.”

“I’ll be prepared next time.” Crumb said. Then he considered. Lady Martha seemed nice, perhaps she was a friend-candidate. “Have you talked to Master Tadius tonight?”

“I have not had the pleasure. Why do you ask?”

“No reason!” Crumb did not want to give the game away. 

“Perhaps I could talk to him now?”

They came to a stop at the balcony doors.

“You don’t want to go outside?” Crumb asked, craning his neck to see the lady’s face.

“This walk has been refreshing enough. Are you ready to go back?”

Crumb considered. He did feel better.

“Let’s walk around and come in from the other side.” He suggested.

“Excellent idea!”

Lady Martha was funny, Crumb decided as he laughed at her impression of her brother, Lord Kenneth, who according to his sister was ‘very well read and delighted in proving it to everyone he met’.

“You must test his knowledge of the Swamp, dear Squire.” Lady Martha said. “That should give him reason to question his ‘giant’ brain.”

Crumb didn’t think he’d met Lord Kenneth so made a note of the lady’s suggestion. He hoped she managed to talk to Tadius and the Queen too.

When they came back into the Great Hall though, the Queen was dancing with Master Tadius. She looked happy. They both did.

Lady Martha said the same thing. 

She smiled down at Crumb. “Perhap I may speak to them another time.”

Indeed, at that moment the Queen pressed her cheek against Master Tadius’. It did seem rude to interrupt.

Lady Martha curtseyed to Crumb and he bowed. She left and Crumb saw the council members, sans Lady Livia and Lord Edoardo in a loose group, looking at the Queen and Tadius. Lord Martin had his hand over his mouth, eyes wide. It looked like he was distressed.

Alarmed, Crumb went over, although before he could make his presence known he heard Lord Andrew say.

“I think you’re overstating things, Siobhan.”

“She isn’t.” Lord Martin replied, taking his hand down from his mouth. “Look for yourself. That’s love.”

Crumb wanted to jump for joy or sigh heavily. Finally, they saw what he did!

“What shall we do?” Lord Martin asked.

Crumb frowned. The lord still sounded upset rather than excited.

“Need we do anything?” Lady Siobhan asked. “They’re happy.”

“For now.” Lord Andrew said. “What happens if they forget themselves? This really cannot go further without angering the Great Houses.”

“Is that not an overstatement, my lord?” The lady pressed. “As long as the Queen shows favour to-”

Interrupting, Lord Andrew shook his head. “We never should have sanctioned this.” He shifted on his feet nervously.

“Andrew.” Lord Martin warned. “Calm down.”

“Livia was right!”

Lord Martin stepped in and lowered his voice, speaking to the other Lord urgently. Lady Siobhan looked at them worriedly. 

Less than a minute later, the Royal couple began to leave the room. Crumb decided to speak to the one other person making sense.

“My lady.”

“Oh!” She jumped but recovered quickly. “Oh, hello Squire Crumb.”

“You want the Queen to be happy, too?” He asked.

The lady looked at him more closely. “Of course I do.” She glanced at the men. “As do we all.”

Lord Andrew seemed steadier but still unhappy and Lord Martin's face was carefully blank. Then Lady Siobhan looked back at Crumb.

“Do you have any ideas, little one?”

Crumb smiled.

Chapter Text

As soon as they were in her rooms, Ella demanded a lovers’ dance. Tadius complied laughingly, wrapping his arms around her back and whirling her around.

Giggling, Ella grabbed onto the back of his doublet and enjoyed the force of the spin. She had not been spun like that since she was a girl. Tadius was grinning as he put her down.

“An auspicious start.” Ella commented, moving the folds of her dress back in place.

Then she put her hands into a proper hold: on his hip and shoulder. 

Tadius mirrored her and bowed his head. “I am most glad Your Grace thinks so.”

They danced around the room, beaming at each other in the soft light of a few candles. The whisper of Ella’s skirts, their steps and their breaths were the only sound. Ella’s whole body felt light.

“This is a tad fast, is it not?” Giddy, Ella teased with her nose in the air. “It is a pity not everyone can keep time in their head.”

“If Your Grace is finding the steps too difficult-”

“Difficult?”

“-then we could slow the pace.” Tadius teased back, grin underlying his words.

“Not on your life!” Ella hit back. “I’ll have you know the Dance Master said I was a natural!”

“Hmmm. ‘Was’, you say?”

“Impudence!” Ella choked through a laugh, “pure-”

“I’m going to dip you now.”

“-impu- oh!”

Ella went willingly as he dipped her, stomach swooping. She tightened her grip around his shoulders, balanced on one heel. Tadius looked down at her, eyes searching. As her surprise wore off Ella loosened her grip and relaxed. Tadius smiled down at her before lifting her up again. Once upright, the couple stared at each other a moment.

“Very good.” Ella murmured in an attempt at humour.

Tadius didn’t even bandy anything back, instead just leaning in to kiss her. Ella responded, pressing up against him and wrapping her arms around him. As they kissed she remembered what she had discovered while dancing in the Great Hall and pulled back.

One hand stroked his cheek as she asked. “Do you know there is a smell that lingers here?”

“No.” Tadius admitted, looking a breath away from concern. “Of what?”

She popped up on her toes to whisper in his ear. “Me.”

Tadius pulled back to look at her face, eyes wide. “Wha…?” Then realisation dawned. “Oh, truly?”

“I noticed downstairs.” She scratched his jaw lightly. “It was all I could do not to ravish you then and there.”

Tadius’ pupils dilated and his breath caught. “Are you going to ravish me now?”

Ella answered him with a kiss. Enthusiastically, Tadius kissed back and began manoeuvering them towards the bedchamber. Again, Ella remembered the hidden sheathes. 

She had spoken with the physician earlier that week on another matter and had taken the opportunity to ask more about them. Eyes twinkling, Yinko had nonetheless remained straightforward and matter-of-fact when explaining the basic principle of putting it on and taking it off. She had also advised on other methods of preventing conception and had even provided a tiny vial of potion to be drunk in case anything were to go wrong with the sheath.

While not thrilled the physician was privy to that aspect of Ella and Tadius’ relationship, Ella had accepted it as a necessity and been thankful for the expertise. Indeed, she had soon thrown off her slight discomfort in order to embrace anticipation. After such a successful ball, surely the time had come to initiate step one in her grander plan.

Once through the bedchamber door, she took control, using her hands on Tadius’ shoulders to draw him back to the chest of drawers.

“Ella.” Tadius breathed, part question and part something else.

“Attend. I have…” Ella took out the box and opened it.

Tadius’ eyebrows rose when he saw inside. He looked at Ella. “They’re for…?”

“I want you inside me.” She barely paused to let him react, barrelling on to head off all of his objections. “I’ve thought about it and considered all of the angles. If anything happens, I have-”

“Alright.” He said, voice steady though his gaze remained intent.

Slightly taken aback, Ella ventured. “You do not wish to hear all of my contingencies?” 

She had thought long and hard about them, knowing that Tadius never ran head long into anything without considering all the possible consequences. That could have become an irritating quality had Ella been more impulsive or higher spirited but as it was, she was never enthusiastic enough about anything to forget how much Tadius’ care was just that: care.

Although she had not shared what happened in that disastrous council meeting, Tadius had observed the council long enough that he must have guessed their true view of his place in Ella’s life. Further, he had been thinking far into the future and planning to aid her even when he expected to be diminished in her heart.

In between her royal duties in the final days of preparation for the ball, Ella had chastised herself for leaving all of the future-thinking to him. She had asked herself how she might demonstrate as much care and devotion to him as he had to her.

“I do not mind it.” She insisted. “Please, see for yourself. I know that’s just-”

“If you have thought of this enough to have contingencies…” he cupped her cheek, eyes sparkling, “then I trust I have nothing to add.”

While Ella was trying to right her internal spinning from his easy acceptance, he added in a hoarse whisper. “And I want it, too.”

The tension in Ella’s shoulders loosened and her heart warmed. For a moment, all she could do was smile up at him.

Without further words they helped each other undress, Tadius carefully placing Ella’s crown onto the crown cushion on the dresser and insisting they hang up her dress so it would not wrinkle. Again, Ella thanked the seamstress for inventing a dress a non-expert could undo. Feeling Tadius’ nimble fingers work the clasps and ribbons under her instructions was strangely erotic.

Ella likewise took care of Tadius’ doublet, enjoying the sight of it sliding off his shoulders and running her hand over the tree design as she folded it on a side table.

Once in their smallclothes, they went to the bed and knelt on the covers. Ella had a sheath in one hand.

“The Physician showed me how to put it on.” She said.

Tadius froze. “Indeed?”

“I did not know if-”

Tadius’ cheeks grew pink. “I confess I have never used one,” his eyes widened and he rushed to explain, “because I have never needed to.”

Ella smiled and put her free hand on his forearm. “I know what you mean.”

Her heart purred at the idea Tadius had met many beautiful and accomplished women but it was Ella who was first to experience such an intimacy with him. Perhaps it was selfish of her but the idea was pleasing. 

He was half-hard, Ella could see the bulge in his small clothes, but as Yinko had advised the penis must be fully erect, Ella held tight to her sheath and shuffled closer. Tadius copied her and they bumped knees. Smiling sheepishly, Tadius leaned in and kissed her - a gentle press on the lips. Melting, Ella pressed in closer and deepened the kiss. Tadius’ hands found her left hip and right arm, his thumbs rubbed her skin idly. In response, Ella cupped his jaw with her free hand. She was again reminded of her scent on his beard and a shiver ran through her.

Over time they shifted closer until they had to pull apart to rearrange themselves lying on their sides against the pillows. Ella worked one of her legs between his, pushing her upper thigh against his length. Tadius let out a small, choked moan. 

Hmmm, not quite there yet, Ella judged.

She buried her free hand in his hair, scratching in that way he liked. She was pleased the effect of the cream foisted upon him was fading; his curls reforming. Tadius’ hands started roaming up and down Ella’s exposed skin and she felt her blood heating up.

“Ella.” He breathed, fingers worrying her small clothes.

That sounded like he was ready.

Together they pushed everything off until they were both naked. Pushing down a crackle of nerves, Ella put the sheath on the head of his penis and rolled it down like Yinko had shown her. Tadius made no comment until Ella looked up at him.

“I think that’s right.” He croaked. Then he cleared his throat. “Very good.”

Ella huffed and snaked her hand around the back of his neck. “Get in here so I can ravish you.”

She only realised the comment didn’t make much sense as she pulled Tadius to lay on top of her, but she only read lust in Tadius’ expression.

Repositioning them slightly so he was settled between her legs, Tadius smiled tentatively. Ella kept her breath deliberately slow. Tadius put a firm palm over Ella’s sex and then ran his fingers over her folds.

“Ready?” He asked.

Feeling a trickle of juice leak out of her sex, Ella nodded.

Carefully, Tadius guided his penis to her opening. It felt big pressed against her but as she met Tadius’ eyes, she relaxed. Tadius would take care of her. 

He started to push in.

“Oh!” Ella felt torn between discomfort and pleasure.

Tadius let out a short, almost-surprised huff and stopped. He looked down at her, eyes focused on her face. She tried to smile reassuringly and they both just breathed a moment. Then Tadius ran a soothing hand on the outside of Ella’s thigh. She nodded and, slowly, he pushed in further, leaning in and putting one hand on the headboard. When he stopped again, Ella felt so full. She was panting and focusing on Tadius she saw he was too.

“Ella.” He half-whispered, half-croaked. “Ella. I’m… are you…?”

His eyes locked onto hers. Ella understood not having the words to describe what she was feeling. She groped around, not wanting to break their held gaze, and managed to put a hand on Tadius’ hip.

“I’m so full.” She managed.

Tadius moaned a little. “I’m inside you, Ella. I…you feel so good.”

It was Ella’s turn to moan. More used to the feeling of him inside her - inside her! - arousal was resurfacing. Her hips twitched up and Tadius grunted. The connection felt visceral, deep. For they were connected.

Heart beating wildly, Ella ordered. “Ravish me, consort.” 

Tadius moaned again. “Ella!”

He pulled his hips back and pushed in again. The sensation was good and Ella suddenly saw how amazing it would feel when done faster.

“Anything,” Tadius panted as he thrust again, “for you,” another thrust, “lover.”

The angle of the last thrust sent a bolt of pleasure all the way down to Ella’s toes. 

Ella moaned, loudly. “More!”

Together they found a rhythm, Tadius thrusting down and Ella pushing up. Tadius kept one hand on the headboard, face hovering over Ella’s but she grabbed hold of his other hand and they both held on tightly.

“This…” Tadius started. “You…”

It would be funny how lost for words the usually verbose Tadius had become if Ella didn’t feel the exact same lack of words.

“Ella!” Tadius gasped.

She recognised he was close to coming.

“Yes,” she breathed, “finish in me.”

With a shudder and low cry, Tadius did: body stiffening and thrusts becoming jerky. Ella remembered what it had looked like in the clearing in front of the old oak when he had come for her the first time. She could not feel any wetness but she imagined a pulsing against her walls. Seeing Tadius struggle to keep his eyes open, Ella gladly tried to commit the moment to memory. This she could never forget.

Finally, he stopped thrusting, head drooping down so far Ella could reach up and stroke his cheek. 

After a moment he lifted his head to look at her, expression tired but satisfied. A feeling welled up in Ella’s chest, more powerful than the full feeling of his sex still in hers. Before she had time to put a name to it, Tadius moved. Carefully, he untangled his hand from hers and moved it to her clitoris. 

Ella hummed as he began to stroke her there, the dual sensations of fingers and penis combined to make a buzzing under her skin.

“That night,” Tadius said, voice hoarse, “I thought you were so beautiful.”

Ella was beyond words but she managed a questioning hum.

“The redbush night, when I helped you.” He clarified. “I thought you’d never looked so beautiful.”

Ella suddenly realised they had never really talked about that night beyond her saying she wished she remembered it.

“I thought,” Tadius continued, “that was it. I would never feel that good again.”

Ella gasped, waves of pleasure washing through her. She clutched Tadius’ forearm as the words registered.

“I thanked the gods for that night.” Tadius whispered. “The night you were mine.”

“Every night!” Ella cried, close. “Gods! Tadius! I’m-”

He kept rubbing her clit at the same speed and bent down to kiss her. Ella came, hand squeezing Tadius’ arm tightly and pressing up against his lips. He stroked her through it and as her sex clenched, he gasped into her mouth. Their kiss broke suddenly, his face to her side rather than above her. Ella took a moment to reorientate, pleasure still racing through her limbs, finding his eyes again as finally, sated, she relaxed down.

Panting, she vaguely registered fingers stroking the crown of her head but mostly she felt swimmy, like half-awake in a pleasant dream.

After some amount of time, Tadius eased out of her and Ella was too spent to react to the sensation though distantly, there was a pulse of loss.

“Er, I’ll just…sort this.” Tadius muttered.

Ella felt the mattress shift as he moved.

“‘S fine.” She slurred weakly.

Whatever he did, it was quick because he was soon laying down beside her. Ella curled into him immediately. She wanted to tell him how much that had all meant to her, how much she lov-

But she had no idea how.

Tadius wrapped an arm around her back and propped himself up on his elbow.

“Tonight was better.” He rubbed along her spine, a shadow of a smile on his lips. “In case you wanted to know.” 

Ella’s mind took a moment to catch his meaning. She smiled and decided where to start.

“I’m yours every night.” She reached up and stroked some of his curls back off his forehead.

He looked back at her for a long moment.

Then he relaxed. “I know.”

There was something in his tone though…doubt?

Ella leaned in and pressed a kiss on his cheek, anxious. A quick inhale told her that her scent was faint but still clinging on. As she pulled back, Tadius’ eyes sparkled like he knew what she’d done it for.

“I cannot believe you let me walk around smelling of you all day.” He jested, though the humour was muted by the lust lingering in his eyes.

“No one knows but me.” Ella bandied back.

Her fingers stroked down from his hair to his cheek as she thought of what to try next.

His arm around her tightened. “You’re right about that.”

His gaze intensified and she heard what he did not say: that no one else would ever get as close as she did. Wanting to return the favour, to assure him of the depth of her feeling, Ella sought the right angle.

“I adored your outfit tonight. You were the best dressed man at the ball.”

“Indeed?” He looked bemused.

“The handsomest, too.”

Tadius hummed. “More than Sir Fenton?”

The question seemed jesting rather than concerned, so Ella tilted her head, giving him an admonishing look. “No one likes a fisherman.”

“It was a genuine question!” He protested. “I was not looking for a compliment.”

Not quite believing him but letting it go, Ella said musingly. “He was an interesting choice.”

“A good conversationalist?” He asked with seemingly only curiosity in his voice.

Ella took a punt and said. “Yes, fairly entertaining.”

“Ah, so not as entertaining as me?” He jested.

Ella flicked his ear and he yelped, laughing and rolling them so she was on top. Joining him in laughter, Ella’s heart ballooned at the realisation he was relaxed enough on the topic to make fun. Her earlier suspicion he’d been jealous of the knight seemed to have been wrong.

Tadius looked up at her and smiled. “You were the most beautiful woman - and the most entertaining.”

Ella rested her hands on his chest, leaned down and kissed him. He responded, one hand moving up from her lower back to the back of her neck. The pressure was gentle and reassuring.

Pulling up, Ella steeled herself and said the words that had been resting on her lips for days.

“I love you.”

She had known it before, in her heart. She just hadn’t taken the time to acknowledge it. The fear of losing him, of losing the happiness and comfort and love she felt with him had pushed all other thoughts away. 

But then she’d discovered he was worrying about being replaced and her heart had ached. 

She’d heard her own council questioning the length of the relationship and her gut had ignited with rage.

She’d seen him organising and hosting the ball with zeal and care, and she’d seen a vision of the future. Their future.

She’d felt him inside of her and felt him in a way she hadn’t before.

All of that rose up and blasted her fear until it was reduced to ash, a shadow.

“I love you.” She said again, the shape of the words on her tongue sending tingles down her spine.

She was close enough to hear his breath catch and even felt it from her hands on his chest. They’d left the drapes open so half of Tadius’ face was lit by the candle on a sideboard somewhere to their right. His left eye was shadowed and perhaps it was how close they were but Ella was unable to discern his reaction.

“Ella,” he said finally, “I can’t…” he laughed a little, though it did not sound joyous.

A lump started to form in her throat. All of her inattention and selfish inaction had shaped his view of her feelings - how could they not? How could he ever trust that she…?

“I can’t believe my lu-”

“Attend!” Ella blurted.

She eased off him and shuffled to the end of the bed.

“Ella?” He called after her.

“I can show you!” She called back.

She couldn’t believe she hadn’t thought of it before. It was almost meant to be.

The fae had given her the answer hours earlier.

A way to show him how she felt.

…

Watching his queen and lover dart naked across the room was not the most abnormal moment of Tadius’ night. But it was one of them.

He was still reeling from her declaration of love. Though of course, it had not been a complete surprise. Their coupling had been so intense and Ella so…he could not explain it but he had felt her love before she had named it. Then she had said she was his every night.

Tadius believed her.

Or rather, he believed she meant it. If they were an average couple…well, Tadius would still fear he was not worthy of her, he would still fear disappointing her or keeping her from her true match, but that would be the full extent.

Quickly pulling on his small clothes, Tadius retrieved Ella’s night robe from her chair and followed her to her dress, where she was looking in the pockets.

“Here,” he said, robe in his outstretched hands, “you’ll catch a chill.”

Ella turned from her task holding a strange object: some kind of polished stick? She held it out.

“Take it, and know my thoughts.”

Tadius frowned.

Ella explained about a fae approaching her in the privy and offering her a gift on behalf of all of her kind throughout the realm. Making a note to question how Sir Hop’s security measures had missed such a guest later, Tadius focused on Ella’s proposition. Did he need a magical stick to show him how she felt?

Tearing his eyes away from the magical object to Ella, Tadius was struck by the crease in her brow. She was really anxious.

Oh, my love.

“So…take it.” She prompted, holding it out closer to him. “So you might see you as I do.”

Slowly, Tadius reached out and laid his hand on her wrist.

“No. There’s no need.” He gently pushed her wrist down. “I already know.”

Ella’s brow did not clear.

“You love me.” Tadius said. Then he let out a startled laugh. “You love me!”

At last Ella’s anxiety melted into a kind of confusion. She shivered and then seemed to notice the robe in Tadius’ hand. After one last look at him, she put the stone back in her dress pocket and let him put the robe around her shoulders.

“You believe me?” She asked.

“Oh, Ella!” Tadius’ heart ached as he tried to find the right words. “After what…after just now?” His hands rested on her shoulders and he felt torn between bringing her into a hug and looking her in the face to drive home the words that were on the tip of his tongue. “How could I not?” He continued. “I felt…I felt you.”

“Then…” Ella frowned. “Why?”

Tadius chastised himself for not hiding his worries better. Then paused as a thought struck him. Perhaps hiding them was the actual problem.

He shivered. The cold air was biting his bare chest and feet.

“Come on.” He indicated back to the bed.

 Ella followed him without comment and they sat against the headboard, covers over their legs.

“Although I struggle to see why, I know that you love me.” Tadius opened.

Ella shot him an annoyed look so he quickly moved on before she could chastise him for the self-deprecation.

“It is everyone else that I worry about.”

“The council.” Ella said.

“Yes. We must remember they also represent the court as a whole.” He thought of Lady Louise’s bizarre comment he still needed to decode. “Their opinions will be reflected by many, if not all of your noble subjects.”

Ella closed her eyes a moment, clearly thinking. “You believe we should capitulate to their demands on me, on us.”

Tadius swallowed, not just at the bite in her voice but the words. That council meeting - what had happened?

“I believe it will be hard to make no concessions. It could even be dangerous to your rule.”

Ella opened her eyes - prime in them was frustration.

Tadius took her hand. “There will be times when you might have little support from the council for issues that are vitally important - like outlawing the hunting of witches. That was a tough fight which I am glad you fought.” 

He could still remember how her inner fire had burned. His heart had been ignited too and that day when Queen Ella had addressed all of the Lords and lawmakers, Tadius had fallen even deeper in love with her.

“I do not wish to see you fight on occasions you don’t have to.”

He stopped there. Ella was sharp and experienced enough to hear what he did not say: all support could dry up if she fought ‘too much’.

“You are vitally important.” She said.

Tadius became amazed and anxious at her words. He swallowed against the sudden dryness in his throat. Doubting Ella’s conviction was a fool’s game and questioning her feelings not much better. He suddenly remembered he’d advised a cautious approach regarding the witchcraft law, he’d been concerned about pushing the council too far and all his concerns had proven unfounded. If anything, her strength of conviction had impressed a few of them - though they’d carefully not voiced it. His Queen had been right to follow her heart.

Ella looked down at their joined hands and cocked her head, distracted.

“Where's your ring?”

Tadius felt his cheeks heat with the echoes of shame. “I still need to find a chain. So I can wear it around my neck.”

As she looked up with a furrowed brow, Tadius realised she had not heard of his encounter with the War Master. He did not want to tell her but forced the words out anyway. During his explanation, Ella’s lip curled and her eyes widened.

“She what?! Why would she even care?”

“It could have been confusing if I had kept wearing the council ring. The Lady was not incorrect that I am no longer ser-”

Ella pulled her hand back, turning away as her breathing grew agitated. Tadius’ fingers curled inward, missing her touch. He waited for a moment, listening to her breathe. He was unsure if his touch would be welcomed before she was calmer.

Across the room he caught sight of the water jug. Slowly, he eased off the bed and went to fill up a cup. He heard shifting noises from behind him and as he turned around, Ella spoke.

“That was not right.” Her voice thick with emotion, her hands balled into fists.

Reminding himself that Lady Livia’s conduct towards himself did not only concern him but the Queen and her reputation as well, Tadius pressed his lips together. He would not correct how Ella felt about her subjects’ behaviour, even as he wished to protest that she need not grow angry on his behalf.

He held out the cup and Ella took it. After a long sip, she passed it back.

“There’s more.” Tadius said, putting the cup back on the table.

He related his strange conversation with Lady Louise, as well as her brother’s immediate attempt to counter any offence. Ella’s face hardened throughout the tale and she said nothing at the conclusion. They stood in the middle of the bedchambers, Tadius looking at Ella, Ella’s gaze further away.

One of the candles spluttered.

Nervously, Tadius added. “When Lady Sofia passes, Lady Louise will become head of the house. We will need to be ready for that.”

“If there is a House Silverhead left to inherit.” Ella muttered.

The hairs on the back of Tadius’ neck stood up.

With a sigh, Ella stepped into him and put her palm over the top of the scar. Her hand was hot against his cooled chest.

“I cannot tolerate this, Tadius.” She looked up from his scar to his eyes. “I cannot let my nobles believe they can question my authority with no response. No consequence.” She cupped his cheek with her other hand, eyes gentling. “I cannot let slander against you pass unchallenged.”

Tadius swallowed and accepted the shift.

Ella loved him.

Ella wanted him to stay by her side. She wanted them to remain…a couple.

Ella was ready to fight her court on his behalf, or rather, their behalf. 

Because they were together, Tadius realised, mind reeling.

He wrapped an arm around her waist, feeling more grounded with her solid weight in his arms. This is real, he told himself, you’re holding your lover.

“We will need to secure the support of the other great houses.” He said quietly, pushing down his swirl of emotions in his chest. “And we will need to keep a closer watch on the Silverheads and Lady Livia.”

Ella nodded. “Sir Hop and Crumb will help us with the latter I know.” She thought for another moment before continuing seriously. “I will begin narrowing down the choices of ladies-in-waiting. I will secure those who support our union and stand with us.”

Tadius laid his hand over her hand on his chest and squeezed. It was uneven ground onto which he was venturing. He faced a terrifyingly vague and obscure future he just knew would contain danger and scorn and an unbelonging.

But he did not feel alone.

Because among all of the awkwardness and uncertainty would be Ella.

And he had made his decision to follow her into the dark, all those weeks ago in the woods. Even if he hadn’t known it at the time, he had already decided.

“I do not have the answers.” Ella continued. “But I propose we find them together. I will not leave you to prepare our future alone.” Doubt flashed in her eyes. “If you’ll still have me.”

“You are my Queen.” Tadius answered immediately, then after a breath added: “and you are my heart’s queen.” 

Ella pressed in closer, attention trained on his face. Her lips parted a little but she did not speak.

“You have always been.” Tadius went on softly. “Since that night on the veranda.”

Tadius did not consider his words as monumentous as hers, but Ella’s eyes widened a little and she smiled in a way he hadn't seen before. 

“That night…” Her gaze went distant as she remembered. “You were the first to see me, really see me, for a long time.”

Refocusing on his face, she went on. “I cannot tell you how much that meant to me. And it feels like since then, your place in my heart has only grown.” 

Tadius’ own heart felt like it was so full of love it was fit to burst. His arm around her tensed and pulled her in closer without him meaning to. Trying to control his breathing, he forced himself to keep listening to her words.

“I do not want a short time with you, Tadius. I want…” her eyes looked wet suddenly and his heart went into his throat as she whispered, “I want the rest of our lives.” 

Tadius wanted that too and he was terrified of it. He had the urge to cringe away and hide under the covers of the bed. 

But he held his lover in his arms; she was warm and alive and so strong. Even in matters of the heart she showed a courage he had never known. How could he leave her standing alone in the dark?

He could not speak. The words felt too big for his throat.

Instead he leaned in and pressed his forehead against hers. He felt her breath against his skin and her warm body against him. 

“Ella.” He whispered.

She sniffed and he pulled back, untangling his hand from hers to wipe a tear from her cheek. Ducking her head, she let out a watery chuckle.

Tadius bent down and kissed her other cheek. After a short huff, she looked up at him, lashes clumped and wet. She was so beautiful.

“The rest of our lives.” Tadius agreed.

Another few tears escaped as Ella beamed up at him but before Tadius could wipe any of them, Ella launched at him. Laughing, he gathered her in his arms and held on as tight as he dared.

His own eyes burned and he vowed to never let her go.

Chapter Text

Members of the Court

QUEEN ELLA of House Ashmore, the Starlit and Saviour of the Realm, Sovereign

COUNCIL MEMBERS

TREASURER, Lord Martin of House Peters

FOREIGN RELATIONS, Lady Siobhan of House Mountsend

PROTOCOL MASTER, Lord Andrew of House Fawncourt

WAR MASTER, Lady Livia of House Garcia

MASTER OF AGRICULTURE, Lord Edoardo Brambilla

HOUSE LORCA, Lord Juan 

VASSALS 

             HOUSE ALBA, Lady Bernada

             Lady Dolores, daughter of Bernada (betrothed to Lord Juan of House Lorca)

             HOUSE YERMA, Lady Anguistias

             Lady Magdalena, daughter of Lady Angustias

             HOUSE GARCIA, Lady Livia

             Miss Shahad, Lady Livia’s attendant and lover

             Sir Kwende, Lady Livia’s second in command

             HOUSE AOUN, Lord Adel

             Lady Ali, Lord Adel's third daughter (unmarried)

HOUSE SILVERHEAD, Lady Sofia

Lord Karl, son of Lady Sofia (deceased)

Lady Louise, daughter of Lady Sofia

Lord Jacob, son of Lady Sofia

VASSALS 

             HOUSE FAWNCOURT, Lord Andrew

             Lady Winifred, wife of Lord Andrew

             Lady Martha, niece of Lady Winifred

             Lord Kenneth, nephew of Lady Winifred

             HOUSE SALSBURY, Lady Mary

             Lord John, husband of Lady Mary

             Lord Benjamin, father of Lady Mary

HOUSE MOUNTSEND, Lord Sean 

Lady Siobhan, cousin of Lord Sean

Sir Fenton of House Bridgeriver, Head of the Guard of Lord Sean’s estate

VASSALS

             HOUSE STONE, Lord Dyfan

             Lord Noel, cousin of Lord Dyfan

             HOUSE FORT LYN, Lord Lucas

             Lady Jenny, sister of Lord Lucas

HOUSE PETERS, Lord James

Lord Martin, brother of Lord James

VASSALS

             HOUSE THORNBUSH, Lady Elizabeth

             Sir Aaron, second cousin of Lady Elizabeth

             HOUSE DALARNA, Lady Maja

             Lady Maja’s husband

             Lord Mattias, son of Lady Maja

             Lady Birgitta, daughter of Lady Maja

             Miss Laura, governess

             Lina, doll of Lady Birgitta

             HOUSE ESCHEN, Lord Josef

             Lady Christina, wife of Josef

             Lady Barbara, sister of Lady Christina

             Lady Margreth, daughter of Lady Christina

             Lady Annelies, daughter of Lady Barbabra

HOUSE LEONARDI, The Infant Lady Ivana 

Lord Giovanni, Ivana’s uncle (acting-head until Ivana comes of age)

VASSALS

            HOUSE BRAMBILLA, Lord Edoardo

            Lady Ginvera, adopted daughter of Edoardo

            Lady Mariana, adopted daughter of Edoardo

Castle Staff

Miss Han, Steward

Mr. Daniels, Head Gardener

Maids

Miss Rachel

Miss Vishanti

Miss Sun

Ushers

Master Anda

Miss Halima

Bards

Miss Butsaya (Resident Bard)

Messrs. Kendall (former Resident Bard)

Knights

Sir Hop-A-Lot, and his squire Crumb

Sir Siyung

Sir Barone

Stables

Unnamed Stable boy!

Other

Darren Hardings, the Silk Merchant, current lover of Lord Dyfan Stone (former lover to Lady Elizabeth Thornbush)