Child of Beauty (Prophecy Series) Page 19

  “I wonder how many other Soldats, Soldatas, and soldiers will turn against the king and join us in the fight.”

  “We’ll have to wait and see.” Creedon turned to look back at his wife. “Our daughter believes the prince will be a good king, but I am not so confident. If he fights us, we may have to kill him.”

  “It sounds like the princess is more likely to fight us than the prince.”

  “She will never be queen.”

  “What if the prince marries our daughter?” Gwen paused. “It can bring a new set of peace, a king with a common queen.”

  “But our daughter loves someone else. I will not force her to marry someone she doesn’t love just to make things easier for us in the end.”

  Gwen nodded. “I am not Ederra.”

  “And I am not Viktor.” Creedon walked off.

  “But both of you will fight for what you know is right.”

  ~ Chapter 42 ~

  “It has been a long time since I have been to Kapok.” Ederra said as they entered the carriage which would take the four remaining Littles to the capital city.

  Jerrika couldn’t wait to get to Kapok. She was ready to fight and win the right to marry the man she loved. The pit of her stomach churned as she thought about those she’d face. Some she wasn’t worried about, but she hated thinking Garrik and Kurtis might battle her. She didn’t know where their loyalty remained, and she was nervous.

  “We have not returned since the king put me in charge of Derbon.” Viktor nodded.

  “And our girls have never been there either.” Ederra sat beside her husband. “I never thought I would have two beautiful Soldatas. Which girl tormented you Jerrika?”

  “Mae Hamilton.”

  “Remind me to thank her when we meet.”

  Jerrika shook her head slightly. Of course Mother would take her persecution and turn into something which would benefit herself.

  “Now I just need to find a husband suitable for you Jerrika.” Ederra continued. “Rayna, when are you and the prince going to announce your betrothal?”

  “I do not love the prince.” Rayna replied. “I am in love with a noble.”

  “What?” Ederra brought her hand to her chest. “We bought you for one purpose. You were supposed to get the prince to fall in love with you and become queen. First you became friends with Jerrika, and now this? How dare you betray me?”

  “Rayna has a choice here Ederra.” Viktor stated. “All of our children do. Jerrika will not marry someone of nobility.” He pulled out a silk-wrapped package. “This is for you.” He handed the present to his daughter.

  Ederra sat with her mouth ajar.

  “Thank you Father.” Jerrika whispered as she opened the silk. Some of the black pearls looked new, but others looked old. Confused, Jerrika pulled the necklace from the package. Could it possibly be what she thought it was?

  “I had it fixed.” Viktor explained. “It is mostly the same one the blacksmith gave you.”

  Jerrika’s breath came in and out quickly, and small tears pooled on her eyelids. Her father was giving his blessing? Was this possible?

  “What?” Ederra cried. “You are encouraging our daughter to marry a blacksmith? I will not allow any of our children to be with someone common.”

  “They are deeply in love.” Viktor turned to his wife. “Can you say nobles marry for love? It is my experience that nobles only marry for title or because someone else forced them.”

  Jerrika stared at her parents, unable to move as they glared at one another. They never fought in front of their children. Her mind couldn’t keep calm. Her parents were arguing. Her father just gave her permission to marry Barrett. Her mother would never allow her to marry a blacksmith. Her father had fixed the necklace her mother had destroyed. Her parents were scowling at each other. Her father wanted her to be with someone she loved. Her mother would never care.

  “I know the truth now.” Viktor whispered. “I know why you did not care when I had the affair.”

  Ederra’s alabaster skin turned a shade paler.

  “I finally know who Sage’s true father is.” Viktor continued in a soft tone. “And I know that only two of our children are definitely mine. I was foolish enough to believe you were happy with me, content to live in our beautiful estate and be my wife.” He paused and looked across the carriage. “I am sorry you girls have to hear this.”

  “If you know who Sage’s true father is, then you know why I needed Rayna.” Ederra hissed. “It is not fair.”

  Viktor rolled his eyes. “You should have thought about that a long time ago.”

  Jerrika bit the inside of her lip to stop herself from asking who Sage’s true father was. She wondered if her brother knew he wasn’t the son of Viktor Little. He had a right to know the truth about his father.

  “At least they are not arguing about me and Barrett anymore.” Jerrika whispered.

  The journey to Kapok was a long one with Ederra and Viktor not speaking. Rayna and Jerrika didn’t know if they could talk, so they ended up silently watching the scenery pass through the window of their carriage.

  The air seemed to be still as they whipped past their surroundings. The ride from Derbon to Kapok went through forest the first day, rivers and grasslands the second, and a hill with aspirations to be a mountain the third.

  As the carriage continued closer, Rayna’s excitement and dread built within her. She was full of anticipation and knew being with Kurtis again would bring her joy, as long as he joined the rebels and didn’t want to kill her. Anxiety ate at her insides as she watched Ederra’s silent scowl, wondering how she and Prince Navion would react when they found out Rayna killed the king. Rayna held her breath as they entered the outer edge of Kapok. She didn’t remember much of the capital, only the dirt-splattered streets and cracked windows of their neighborhood.

  The outer villages of the capital housed small cottages and farmlands. As the carriage took them closer to the palace and city, the dirt road seemed to transform into cobblestone. The houses went from mud bricks with half-finished thatching to stone and finished roofs made from sheets of rock. Within the city, Rayna noticed alleys leading to backstreets where the dwellings resembled those who lived outside the wealth of Kapok.

  Jerrika gasped, and Rayna looked out her sister’s window to see Perso Palace.

  The giant structure was made of dark stones with several towers and a high arch with two large bells. Rayna couldn’t take her eyes off the palace, which made Krijar look like a trivial cottage.

  The carriage wheeled into the courtyard. It contained several gardens, pools, menageries, and even a waterfall.

  “This is where the prince and princess grew up?” Jerrika gasped. “Why would they ever want to leave?”

  “It is astounding.” Ederra grinned. “It has been too long.”

  “Not long enough.” Viktor helped her from the carriage. They were the first words he’d spoken to her in almost three days.

  “Welcome to Perso Palace.” A butler greeted them. “May I inquire to the nature of your visit?”

  “I am Duke Viktor Little.”

  “Oh, forgive me.” The butler bowed deeply. “I didn’t know who you were sir.”

  “It is alright.” Viktor replied. “This is my wife, Duchess Ederra Little, and my daughters, the newly made Soldatas: Jerrika and Rayna Little.”

  “It’s truly an honor to meet you all.” The butler continued to bow. “If you’ll follow me, I’ll show you all to your rooms. The palace is at an influx at the moment with most of the Soldatas and Soldats gathering here. Tonight is the annual Joining Ball to celebrate those new Soldatas and Soldat who will begin the next journey of their lives. Congratulations to the two of you ladies on becoming Soldatas.”

  “Thank you.” Rayna replied.

  The butler led them inside.

  Rayna gaped at the vaulted ceilings and columns made of granite.

  “This is truly breathtaking.” Jerrika whispered.

  Rayna nod
ded and chuckled. “Maybe I should become queen.” She winked at her sister.

  Jerrika elbowed her. “Do not break Kurtis’ heart.”

  “If I broke his, then I would break mine as well.”

  The butler led them up four flights of stairs and down a long hall.

  “Here is your room Duke and Duchess.” He opened a double door. “Dinner will be served in the main hall in two hours’ time. It’s down two flights and the dining room on the right. After dinner there will be the Joining Ball. Now Soldatas, please follow me.”

  Ederra grabbed Rayna’s arm. “Dress exquisite for tonight. Perhaps the prince will reconsider marrying you.”

  “I do not love him.” Rayna pulled her arm free. “I will see you at dinner Mother.” She rushed to follow Jerrika and the butler.

  “Here you ladies are.” The butler opened another door. “I hope you two enjoy the room.”

  “Thank you.” They said together.

  Rayna and Jerrika entered the room side-by-side. Rayna’s mouth dropped as she surveyed the mauve carpet, mahogany furniture, and magnificent chandeliers lighting the room.

  “I do not want to leave this place.” Jerrika threw herself on one of the two beds. “No wonder Fergus wanted a commission here.”

  Rayna chuckled. She looked around, wondering if the walls had ears within the palace. Now that she was here, she felt vulnerable. The king could easily kill her at any moment.

  ~ Chapter 43 ~

  Ovepo 1, 540

  A soft knock turned Jerrika’s attention to the door. “Come in.” She was hoping it was Kurtis.

  Wilma walked in. “Hello.”

  “Hey.” Rayna embraced her friend. “You look wonderful.”

  “Thank you.” Wilma touched her chiffon gown. The forest green fabric was cut in an A-line, hitting her body in exactly the right places. She wore her Wopler as a belt, and her boots were ready for a battle. Her brunette bangs brought attention to her cobalt eyes, and her straight hair was down. “Are you two ready for tonight?”

  “Completely.” Rayna grinned as she showed off the long slits in her lavender skirt, Wopler, black leggings and boots completing her look. Her long blonde hair supported a side-braid, and she wore a black beaded band across the top of her forehead. “Oh, just so you know.” She lowered her voice. “I am going to fight against the rebels, so the king thinks I am loyal to him.”

  “We look like we are ready for the night of our lives.” Jerrika touched her Wopler. Her teal dress went just below her knees, and her flat slippers were ready for action. Her dark brown hair was curled and held out of her face with a brown and teal striped headband.

  “Let us go to dinner.” Rayna lowered her voice. “Cannot fight with an empty stomach.”

  Wilma chuckled as they left the room. Jerrika was ready for the battle to begin and end. She didn’t like that she would be fighting her brothers, maybe even Kurtis. Once the battle began, she would have a better idea of which side certain people was on.

  The main dining hall was so crowded, Jerrika couldn’t see anyone she knew. She had hoped Kurtis would be waiting for them. Perhaps Radley would be there, since he had feelings for Wilma. Maybe the prince would find them, still holding onto hope that Rayna would change her mind and love him.

  “Let us just sit.” Wilma suggested.

  Rayna nodded and followed her friend. The three sat together at a large rectangular table. Food was set throughout the center line: dark green and bright orange tinted tablecloths covered the mahogany. Cooked pheasant, chicken, duck, and venison with potatoes, corn, asparagus, and onion sent a deep growl to the pit of Jerrika’s stomach. She had never seen food look so fancy, and she couldn’t wait to begin eating.

  Slowly, the crowds of people sat and servants began to cut the meats, spoon the vegetables, and fill the cups. Jerrika kept looking for Kurtis, but she was unable to find him. She did see the princess with the Hamilton twins at another table. Jerrika was looking forward to never seeing them again.

  After dinner, Rayna, Jerrika, and Wilma entered the ballroom together. Rayna was nervous as she descended the stairs. Tonight was the night. Tonight the prophecy would come true, and she would kill the king. A fist had taken the place of her stomach, and she hadn’t eaten much for dinner.

  “You all look beautiful.” Sage greeted them at the foot of the main staircase.

  “Thank you.” Rayna smiled and embraced him. “Hello Sage.”

  He chuckled and hugged Jerrika as well. “I have a feeling that tonight will be a night to remember.”

  “Aileen will be coming soon enough.” Jerrika whispered.

  Sage sighed. “I hope she forgives me.”

  “She will.” Rayna assured him. She would let her sister tell him she already did. “She has never held a grudge for long.” She paused. “Except the one against your father.”

  Sage chuckled. “I completely understand that.”

  Rayna smiled. She looked around the ballroom. Where was Kurtis?

  “Hello.” Radley joined them and bowed. “It is great to see you all again.”

  “You too.” Jerrika answered.

  “May I have this dance Wil?” Radley held out his hand to her.

  She took it with a grin. “Of course.”

  “You must be Viktor Little’s daughters.” Someone said behind them.

  Jerrika and Rayna turned and curtsied. Sage bowed.

  “Your majesty.” Rayna greeted him. I am going to kill you once the battle begins. “How are you tonight?” Part of her wanted to kill him then and there, get it over with, but there were far too many Soldatas and Soldats loyal to King Navion in the room. She would be killed within seconds.

  “Very well.” King Navion answered. “I hear you and my son are courting.”

  Was the king mad? Or was the prince going to force her to court him? She trusted Prince Navion, and she thought he respected her. Was she wrong about him?

  King Navion turned to face Jerrika. “And you are a close friend of his.”

  “Your majesty?” Jerrika frowned. “I would not say we are close friends.”

  The king had to be be mad.

  “You would not?” King Navion gestured. “From what my daughter has said, Kurtis was your only friend for most of your time at Krijar.”

  “Kurtis?” Jerrika and Rayna said together.

  King Navion nodded behind them. Rayna turned to see Kurtis, Garrik, and Hadrien standing together.

  She knew exactly who Kurtis was. He was a noble Soldat, the son of Albert Jarger. Why was the king trying to make her believe Kurtis was his son? Could it be possible? Was this what he meant when he’d told her things would change at Kapok?

  “Excuse me.” Rayna left them as she made her way to the young men.

  “You look lovely sister.” Garrik smiled.

  “Thanks.” Rayna stared at Kurtis. Could it be true? “I need to borrow Kurtis for a dance.” Was he the prince? It couldn’t be possible. She knew exactly who Prince Navion was.

  “It will be my pleasure.” Kurtis grinned as he followed her to the dance floor.

  “You are the prince?” Rayna blurted. Please tell me you are not.

  Kurtis stiffened, and in that moment, Rayna knew the truth. The king wasn’t mad. It had been Kurtis who hadn’t been honest.

  “Who told you that?”

  “Your father.” As she looked into his deep-blue eyes, she went cold. It was true. He wasn’t of noble birth. He was the heir to the throne, the crown prince who would hate her after she killed his father.

  “He never knew I kept my true identity secret.”

  “Who is the man everyone thinks is Prince Navion?”

  “The real Davion Jarger.” Kurtis answered. “When we were six, I asked him to switch places with me. I did not want everyone to treat me differently because I am the prince.”

  “So you had them treat you differently because they thought you were noble?” It didn’t make sense. The prince would never want to be treated as Kurti
s had been.

  “It let me know how high nobles treated nobles, and it let me know that if high nobles treated nobles as such, they must treat common folk even worse.” Kurtis spun Rayna and pulled her close. “Not even your mother knows who I truly am.”

  “Who does?”

  “My family, Davion, and your father were the only ones in Krijar.” Kurtis led Rayna in a step-turn. “Garrik and Hadrien know the truth now too.”

  “Why did you not tell me?”

  “At first because of your mother’s plans for us. Jerrika told me Ederra adopted you so we could fall in love.”

  “I did not want to fall in love with the prince.” Rayna paused. “Especially since I fell in love with you, someone I thought was noble.” How had this happened? She’d spent most of her life making sure she didn’t fall in love with Prince Navion. Now it turned out she was madly in love with the true prince.

  “I am sorry I lied to you.” Kurtis answered. “But my true identity was the only thing I lied to you about. I am still the same man you fell in love with.”

  Rayna looked into his kind eyes. She shouldn’t be upset. She’d lied to him about more than he had, but how was she supposed to kill the king now? Kurtis would never forgive her if she killed his father.

  “I am sorry too.” Rayna lowered her voice. “I should not be so angry. You are not the only who has lied.”

  “Oh?”

  “I—” Rayna was cut off by a loud explosion beating a hole into the wall of the ballroom.

  Rosewyn and six others appeared in the ballroom as her birth family and rebels spewed forth from the wall.

  The final battle had just begun.

  ~ Chapter 44 ~

  Creedon saw Rayna with a young man. He brought his sword up, deflecting a dart. He frowned. How many rebels would die from those vial things?

  A young man, who had appeared in the battle with Rosewyn, raised his arms. He wore strange azure robes and held a midnight blue sword. Abruptly, a wave of cyan enchantment shot out from the young man, and the magic seemed to bounce throughout the ballroom.