Born to rule ('Born to be a slave' sequel)

Heavenly bells rung on top of the tower, their rumbling sounds evoking my heart with blissful feelings. In front of me, two pearl white eyes glimmered with the same excitement I experienced. I could feel the enormous swarm of butterflies tickling my insides, lifting my happiness to the sky. His hands were warm, they held mine tight, as if he was afraid to loose me. I felt reluctant to let them go too.

All my life I dreamed about my own family, that one day some unknown force would change my life for better and would grant me this wish. It has happened and I can't describe the happiness I feel.

Next to us, reflecting glimmers of sun, sit two rings on a snow white pillow, waiting to be picked up and close a bond that will last a lifetime.

"Do you take Thea as your lawful wife, to have and hold, from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish until death do you part?"

The priest's voice echoed through the light-filled church walls, making my heart feel the ambient sound. It sent pleasant shivers over my skin.

"Yes, I do!" Edmund said calmly, his lips parted in a subtle smile.

"Do you take Edmund as your lawful husband, to have and hold, from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish until death do you part?" He repeated.

I felt a tear slip through my lashes as I struggled to say the words. I was just too happy. All of this felt like a dream.

Edmund gently squeezed my hand. I looked up and saw a small concern in his eyes.

"I do..." I said finally.

After priest's holy words, Edmund gently put a ring on my finger, while he hold my trembling hand.

"Thea, receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. "

Edmund smoothly slid a fine carved ring on my finger. It glimmered and sparkled in a sunlight filled structure.

I felt very nervous. In some way I felt glad, that only our closest people are here today. I took all the courage that was inside me and did my part.

"Edmund, receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

I put a ring on his finger, all the while more tears were breaking through. I tried to keep them in.

"Thea, don't cry."Edmund whispered.

"Therefore I proclaim you a husband and wife. You may kiss the bride." Priest's voice boomed over. "What God joins together, let no one put asunder".

Edmund leaned closer and our lips touched. I had to keep my heart calm, otherwise it would jump out. Every time I kissed him, it felt like a first time for me, all emotions were so strong I struggled to keep myself calm at such situations. He surely felt it and took me in his embrace and his hold on my waist tightened as well as his kiss got stronger, but..... at the same time being gentle. I almost melted in his hands.

He stopped and smiled sweetly.

"Thea.... You have made me into a happiest man ever." He said quietly and gave me a feather light peck on my lips.

"Oh my god! You both look so pretty!" I heard Fiona's whining in a back. "James, why didn't you provide me with such extravagant wedding?"

Fiona slapped him with her handkerchief, getting no particular reaction out of him, just his characteristically quiet white, loving smile.

We continued to gaze at each other in silence, savoring the reality of our new life, our future as a family.

***

I woke up the next morning in my bed alone.

Time and time again I repeat this wonderful memory in my mind. A grin spread over my face, remembering his sweet whispers and kisses, that trailed over me through the night. Edmund's strong hold on me made me feel safe, being in his embrace, against his strong toned chest gave me a sense of protection. I received love, that would come from a man, my husband - something that I anticipated and which made me nervous, slightly afraid, but he showed me, that nothing is to be worried about. He was gentle and I felt him take great care of my body, that at that moment belonged to him.

I was no longer a slave, who had no right to have anything. Now we stand equally by each other as a married couple.

My palm goes over the spot where Edmund slept. It holds no warmth of him, he have left a bed quite some time ago. I hoped to open my eyes and see him laying next to me, still asleep, while I would gently stroke his silky strands of hair and watch his calm face with those dark and long eyelashes.

Is something worrying him again? Few months have gone by without any incident or anything to trouble his mind. That's what I assume, but deep down I know it is not the case. Leaving Maria behind and marrying me hasn't relieved Edmund from his main problem - becoming a king. I feel in my heart, that I might have added more to this ordeal.

Nothing changed his high status and he married me. No one knows who I am. People will question him for my origins and what happened with the engagement he had with Maria.

I slide out from the cowers, put a silky robe on myself and head to look for my husband. I can't help, but suppress a small giggle, that desperately wants to break free from my beating heart.

A husband.... I have a husband.... Edmund....

It sounds so strange in my mind. Few months ago I wouldn't dare to even dream about such thing and now, here I am.

I see Edmund sitting in a chair in the living room, basking in the morning sun rays on a balcony, that overlooks the inner garden.

I see him in deep thought, his body loosely leaned over the furniture and his legs spread out. The blinding white shirt makes him look like an angel descended from the heavens.

"Good morning..." I whisper as I stand behind him, my hand is reaching for his dark strands of hair.

"Morning, Thea." Edmund plants a soft kiss on my hand. "You should still be in a bed. I.... was planning to go back. I didn't think you would wake up so early."

"It's alright. Don't feel obligated to do such insignificant things for me."

"Insignificant? I doubt it is so for you. Sorry for ruining your first morning."

Edmund pressed my palm against his cheek and then kissed it again.

"What's up with you...? You seem troubled."

"Nothing.... Nothing for you to worry about. Not yet...."

"Not yet? Is it... Is it something to do, what priest said?"

Edmund's glistening orbs reached my worried gaze.

Many days ago, when we talked with priest about the wedding, he pointed out things about our future, about Edmund's future. No matter how much he wanted to live rest of his life like a normal nobleman, it could not be achieved in his case. People for many years have waited for a king to rise, for Edmund to finally take his throne. It could not be so easily abandoned. It was his calling given him from the time he was born. The odd trait of his bloodline, the unnaturally looking eyes had shaped the future for him, without his own choice. Edmund just couldn't leave this legacy behind so simply.

"Yeah. In truth it is so... . I am more worried about you. The inevitable difficulties you will have to go through to stay by my side." Edmund hold an apologetic look. "Thea, you will be a queen. Do you understand that?"

I couldn't deny, that this single thought made me nervous. I only hoped that Edmund will hold my hand through, whatever is stored in for us.

"He also said, that we will have to hold another wedding. For the people of Hadria to publicly mark our union. It is so bothersome, but it will need to be done. Not now, though...., but at sometime in the future. Also we will move to the capital in few days time. But don't worry about anything right now. You just rest, alright?"

"Hmm." I nodded.

I could not sleep the previous night, as all my thoughts were occupied with the upcoming journey to the capital Agra. Today is the day I will face my new life. Leaving the old one behind will be hard, also the friendships I have made over the years. I will miss them – Fiona, James, Jerry, even those people and faces I didn't get along so well. The familiarity of this property will be changed to much bigger place. As I have heard, it appears to be a structure comparable to a castle of royalties from older times.

I had visited Shire – a large market and business orientated city, which sadly holds no fond memories. The rest of my life was spent in Wiltshire's property or a summer house - now it was called. It will be a whole new experience for me. I just hope I will be strong enough to stand the new changes.

I saw Fiona busy attending her tasks, preparing necessary belongings for me and Edmund, which will be taken to our new home. Her face lacks the usual cheerful expression. Sadness and mind occupied with thoughts, most likely about our departure.

I will miss her the most. Fiona has been my family and only support, like a big sister, which I never had, she helped to get through the hardships, cheered me up in most saddest moments – everything for someone, who could not be entitled on none of the kindness she gave.

She seemed very busy. I wished I could help her and give her a hand, but Edmund said to stay out of their way. It is yet hard to grasp, that I no longer need to work and from now on I might not need to lift a finger for anything I wish to do.

Right now I am standing in the middle of the entrance hall, watching everybody run around. I sigh heavily. I feel bored.

As on notice, Fiona glances up at me and smiles softly.

"Why such a sad face, Thea? Or.... I should say 'your majesty'."

"You are kind of scaring me with that title, Fiona."

"But you are! You will be. Better get used to it. Everybody will address you that way in Agra."

I hugged myself and timidly rubbed my arms. I felt very unsure and afraid of this strange life that awaits me. Even such a minor thing as addressing me by my status, brought nervousness in my heart.

Fiona watched my expression carefully. "Don't think about it so much at the moment. Everything will be alright and.... your lovely husband probably will help you to adjust in the new environment. He won't leave you all alone."

"I will miss you..." I couldn't hold in my tears, one slipped through. "I know... no one in Agra."

"Hold yourself together, Thea." She gently shook me. "You have gone through things much worse than this. ... and do you know how many new people are working in the castle? Hundreds. You will meet more in the parties. Nice and caring people, new friends. Trust me. Just have some faith."

"It will not be the same." I could not get rid of the loneliness I hold in my chest. "What about Storm? Maybe I can take him with us?"

"Storm is staying here." Edmund's serious voice boomed through the hall. His eyes were set hard on me as he was slowly approaching us. "What's the crying about?"

"Our Lady is just little afraid, Lordship."

I wiped off the remaining tears. Edmund smoothly got hold of my hand and it made me calm down little bit. I glanced up at him begging, but his stoic face expression didn't change.

"If you want me to change my mind, nothing will work. He is old and city life will wear him off completely. He needs grass and fresh air, not the brick covered streets of Agra." Edmund finally cracked a tiny smile.

He was right. The happiness and energy radiated from him, whenever he roamed the pastures.

Time hasn't spared Storm at all. His time was slowly running out, but I hoped to see him one more time, before he passes. I will need to come back for sure.

I wanted to hug Edmund and relieve myself from heartache I felt, but his unemotional face put me off for a moment. It is still hard for me to feel completely free in his presence. When I see him so serious, there is always that thought, that he might not care about me the same way I hold feelings for him. Maybe that is only my own problem, I am not quite sure of myself. I would like to free myself from all these doubts, that crawl inside of me and make feel so insecure around him.

"We should go, Thea. I want to get home before bedtime."

Edmund's hand was still holding mine and he slowly dragged me towards the exit. Fiona's form was left behind. I could not leave her without a proper goodbye. In fast steps I returned and hugged her very tightly.

"Don't forget about me, please..." I cried on her shoulder.

She didn't respond, just hold me strong as I did.

When I turned around, Edmund was gone. I rushed after him. On the way through the door, I waved another goodbye to Fiona.

The day outside was not one of the best in this season. Gloomy, with thick fog and rain, that almost felt like snow. The dark brown carriage stood still in front of the main entrance door, looking ghostly and mystical.

Edmund was inside, he glanced at me through the window and opened the door, which made spooky, squeaky sound.

"Hurry up, princess!" he disappeared back into the darkness.

In few steps I got there and climbed inside. Like the first time I awed at the decorative cushions and ornamented carvings of the wood. I was embraced with warmer air than outside, it made me feel cozy and content.

Edmund sat on other side and watched me silently. Carriage started to move and we were escorted with a light thudding of the horse rhythmic steps. Edmund subtly swayed in his seat as the carriage got on different path. His eyes were glued on me. It stirred up some feelings in my gut and my heart flattered. His gaze was intent and little bit mischievous. I waited for him to say something.

"Thea!" His voice was low and smooth.

"Yes..."

"Do you know, what you will be in my house? What you will become?" I caught a glimpse of a tiny smirk.

His question felt oddly familiar as well as the whole scene. I blurted the first thing, that came in my mind.

"A pet?"

He leaned closer to me, our noses almost touched. Edmund smiled widely.

"Almost correct. You will be my .... my queeeeen." His eyes gleamed in excitement. "You remembered!"

I inhaled nervously. "Yes, it felt very familiar. Actually it feels the same. I am... afraid, Edmund."

His smile disappeared. He came to sit on my side and scooped me in his arms, his hands were firmly around my waist. I could feel my cheeks heating up. My husband kissed me softly on my forehead, his warm lips didn't seem to be willing leave my heated skin.

"No matter what happens, I will 'hold your hand'".

I let myself free of the tension, which was holding my body and leaned closer to my husband. His scent calmed me and I wanted to believe, that he will always be here for me, will keep me safe and never leave my side.

I didn't want this dream to end - never.

We slowly approached the city of Agra. As I peaked out the window, the same thick fog concealed the details of this large city, which I desperately wanted to see. My nervousness had been replaced with slight excitement. For the first time I have been let out of the house to see the real world. As the dusk was setting in, Agra appeared magical in my eyes. Distant lights from houses and street lamps were glowing like gigantic lights of fireflies, in between the thick fog covered streets.

I could tell, that most of the houses are in light colors, some made of darker bricks, many stories high, at the moment towering above our carriage and people that still roamed around. Some late autumn flowers decorated the sidewalks. I couldn't help, but gawk at the wonderful sight. I tried to imagine, how Agra would look like in the daytime, filled with abundance of sunlight.

"This is so pretty, Edmund." I got back in my seat.

He subtly smiled, but showed no particular interest in anything.

"Pretty? Hmmm... Rather annoying I would say. This city gets on my nerves." He grumbled.

I could guess, that it is related with the 'king' matters, rather than city itself.

"I will surely miss the summer house and the peaceful environment." He gazed into the distance, on the fading lights we passed by.

"I didn't know you love that place so much." I was surprised.

"I do. It is the only place, where everybody treats me as a normal nobleman and are leaving me alone and free of my duties."

"We will get through this, Edmund. I mean, somehow we will make it work for you, keep you happy and satisfied...... calm. That's all I need you to be. I wouldn't ask for more."

"...so optimistic... " he smiled again, but it emitted that feeling of sadness.

He had his own problems brewing in his heart, as well as I had my own. I understood, that nothing will be easy in our new life. I just hoped for the best.

The carriage proceeded to a much quieter part of the city, with less people and more free space. I peaked out again and instantly drew myself back inside. I was shocked of what I saw.

"Is it...? Is it our new home?" I swallowed hard.

Edmund nodded.

All I could see was a gigantic gate in front of us, with the same decorative carvings and sculptures as in Edmund's summer house, but on a whole new scale - much, much bigger. The wall around was as tall as the high story houses, couple of tall towers on each side and wast main building behind.

We got through the gates and I noticed guards. Their uniforms black as the night with golden decorative accents. Their serious faces told not to pass through them uninvited.

Edmund nudged me to get my attention back.

"Hey!" He said softly. "You will have plenty of time to look around. Come outside, everybody is waiting for you and..... and I want to sleep badly." Edmund yawned, his eyes glassy with tiredness.

I was drawn back to reality, when I heard, that they are waiting for me. My heart was starting to beat in nervous excitement. What will I see? Who will I meat? So many questions swam through my mind.

As soon as I climbed out of our carriage, I was met with a man dressed similarly to the guards. He bowed deeply and motioned for me to go further. His body language was elegant and polite, but he didn't lift his eyes to even look at me. They were set down hard, as being afraid to burn himself, if setting his eyes on us. I stumbled by the sudden surprise, but Edmund managed to catch and support me in time.

My eyes were still glued on a young man - now left behind us.

Me and Edmund walked further down. The path was lined up with guards, further more with other members of staff and then a wide, tall double door.

Everything felt so overwhelming, that it was hard to take the many beautiful details of the castle or people surrounding us. I stayed glued to my husband's arm for extra support, so close, almost strangling him. My knees were getting weak and I feared I will fall.

Further more the line continued with servants and indoor workers. Countless maids in neat looking black uniforms, their eyes set down on their feet.

This troubled me greatly, why no one looked at us. I had not have a single eye contact, since I entered the castle. It almost felt like all these people are slaves and we are the ruthless masters.

We are their masters, but I didn't like this deep submission they all showed. Were they so oppressed and afraid?

One person caught my eye immediately. It was a small girl. Young, no more than ten years old. She wore the same kind of outfit as the rest of the maids.

My heart was pinched with guilt and sadness. I know it wasn't my fault she is here, but something made me feel very sorry for her. In some way she reminded me of myself, when I was young and worked for many nobles.

Her hair was light blond tied up neatly, clothing the same way. Like other maids, she did not look at me. Her chin was pressed hard against her upper chest, while her tiny fingers fumbled in front of her snow white apron.

We passed by her, but my eyes couldn't leave her form yet.

And then two bluish grey orbs reached my gaze. I inhaled sharply of the sudden surprise. Sadly it seemed to scare her, when as fast as lightening, her child like eyes shut down again. She seemed to be in the brink of crying, her body language emitting signs of nervousness and regret.

I prayed she doesn't get in trouble.