After two weeks on horseback, I finally managed to get to Tigrisia. As I inhaled the fresh scent of lavender while passing through the Belgrad Forest, it was not air but peace that filled my lungs. I was constantly praying that I could reach Jaromir before Bayezid's invitation. Finding myself in the Belgrad Forest was an unmitigated relief. Tomris was also always in my prayers. Everything had a reason. Tomris was my angel, the miracle that allowed me to save my brother. Loving her was unquestionably destined. As I approached the Dragon Nest, the terror choking my heart left its place to excitement, to a heroic pride. 

The horse had slowed down and started to hinder. I led the animal to a grassland surrounded by the forest. There were the lavenders, the source of the mesmerizing scent I tracked. I dismounted it and let the animal graze while wandering around the flowers. I thought the purple would suit Tomris. She would love to ride in here. I temporized myself with those thoughts, not knowing how to confess to my brother that she was pregnant. I decided that it was not a priority yet. As I walked forward, I saw ordered stones and constitution remaining in the area. They were associated with monumental entrances. I realized that I was where the old Winter Castle once was before Uncle started a revolt, and my mother sent the army to destroy this place, which he used as a base. It was hard to believe that only a few stones and columns left that glorious building. I spent months in this castle as a child, playing with the wild rabbits and gazelles. This was also the place where I learned to ride. I had always thought that Jaromir would teach me how to ride alone - but he was gone, so Uncle taught me. He was more anxious than me, always fetching the horse before I mounted. Even though he had so much to do, he never left me alone when I went for a ride in the forest. I used to believe that he could catch me whenever I tumbled. Who could imagine he was capable of such treachery? Walking among the stones, I heard a woman crying beneath. She gasped, trying to hold her squeals, but it was useless. "My lady?" I approached her behind. "Are you alright?" 

She leapt towards me as she heard my calling. Her long hair escaped from the blue scarf tangled to her thin neck. Those worldly-wise eyes were soaked with tears. "Mother?" I murmured in fright. She stood up, tied her arms to my shoulders and resigned herself. She was laughing and crying, her head buried under my chin. Then she raised her head and kissed my cheeks and head. She was whispering a prayer that I couldn't tell. I hugged her hard. Her feet were about to be airlifted. "My boy, my baby boy..." she was raving. I pressed her strong arms, demanding her gloom to pass on me and leave her be. "Where were you? Why didn't you come sooner?" she started to whine but kept on giving kisses. "I am here now," I comforted her. She stepped a foot back, holding my arms still. "Let me take a look at you. It has been nearly four years!" She looked into my face, searching for an exceeding wrinkle or so. She found one in my eyes, touched my cheek and caressed it. "You have grown up," she said faintly. "It must be my curse not to have both sons simultaneously." She embraced me again. I took her hands.

"Is Jaromir still in the country?" She looked at me confused, then shone like she just remembered. "Of course he is. Haven't you come for the wedding?" It was then I who was confused. "What wedding?" I asked. Mother rebuked an idea passing her memory. "Jaromir is marrying to the lady of Siren Stone Helena." It was hard to comprehend. "When?" I asked. She gawped at me. "Today." Suddenly, I felt the weight of the four years on my back. Looking at her reddish, wet face, I asked, "Why are you crying?" She crouched to the grey stone she was addressing. I looked at the letters on the stone. 

Traitor Prince Darcia Dragarevic

The Disgrace of the Tigrisian Dynasty

1357 - 1399

She faced me back, hopefully. "Today is the anniversary of your uncle's death." I was surprised that she was crying after that piece of a man. "I assume you meant the anniversary of brother's victory against Darcy's rebellions." Her face got sour, and her weeping evolved into bawling. I looked at her, bewildered. She could utilize a few words between her gasps, words filled with anger and regret. "Despite all the wicked things that he did, he didn't deserve to die like that." Seeing the grey stone standing on the remains of the man who treated me decent all those years, I felt sentimental, but my feelings were not more profound than that. "How did he die?" I asked finally.

I noticed the question tore the crust of a wound that had long been healing. "Your brother cut his head off and left his body there in the forest to feed ferals. Under this dark, cold soil, only his head lies." I plumed on Jaromir and pitied my uncle at the same time. "This is how Tigrisia treats defectors," I said straightforwardly. Her cheeks roasted as if she was slapped. She slowly stood up and stared into my eyes with letdown and crucified thoughts. "How could you speak such words about your uncle? He loved you. He loved you more than himself. He cared about you, he taught you, he fathered you." It was hard to process why she got all soppy for a man who tried to perish my father's legacy. "At the end of the day, he denied Jaromir's right on the throne. You sent troops to catch him. You sent me to stop him. What changed?" She folded her arms together, first to show stiffness, then because she was cold. I undressed my cape and put it on her shoulders. "I wanted him to stop. I tried to trap him in a dungeon where he would understand Jaromir would be a great ruler. Your brother didn't give him any chance to be purged. My children are all parts of my soul. I knew Jaromir better than myself. He would never shred one from his bloodline. This is how I raised you. However, that barbarian Turk, that evil man Bayezid, poisoned my son. This was his act, not my son's." I felt a dagger pointed behind my nape as I heard the word "poison". She continued. "This all happened because you were gone. Jaromir was confused. As you are here now, everything will be much better. He needs his brother." She hugged me again, patting my hair. I took the hair bangs stuck on her wet forehead. "I have essential news. I need to talk to my brother. King Bayezid is planning to kill him." Mother's face got all white and terrorized. We mounted our horses and headed to the Dragon Nest.

A tremendous crowd was cheering for Jaromir and walking to the monastery. Going ahead among them was impossible on horseback. We dismounted and went to the old stable to use the secret passage to the castle. I lit the torch, and we walked in the narrow underground pathway. Mother was following me behind. I could hear her exhales. She was nervous. "Maybe you should tell this to your brother after the wedding. Jaromir hasn't received the invitation. He has no plans to go abroad. As we will be close to him, getting him down before his wedding is unnecessary." She was right, yet repeating that he was about to marry made me feel distant. I felt regretful and blameful. I needed to be by his side. This was what I had always wanted, yet here I was about to distress him on this blissful day. "I didn't know Lord Isle had a daughter." Mother didn't respond. As we reached the barracks gates, she knocked three times rapidly and four with pauses in between. A vast warrior unlocked the door and let us in. 

We walked to the main hall. Around the corner, Jaromir was walking with king guards following him. He was dressed in golden and red. I was hesitant; I couldn't predict his thoughts as he saw me. He paused for a second and stared at me, surprised. Then, his eyes gleamed a familiar light and a candid, childishly excited smile he put on his face. I was relieved. He approached. We met in the middle of the hallway. He hugged me tight. "Brother! I cannot express how much you make me happy," he said to my ear. I sensed that all my muscles had unwinded, and I finally belonged. I was about to cry like a child. He patted my back. Then grabbed me stiffly from my shoulder. "Come, I want you to meet Helena." I caught the sight of Mother for a moment. She was pleased and looking in broken happiness. 

As we walked through the corridors and repeatedly columns, he told me all the reforms he had done in four years. How did he improve Tigrisian education, economy and arts? The new system of jurisdiction and so on. "I was frowning that you were not here while I dealt with this alone. Thinking about it now, it was meant to be. As my brother, your presence in Bayezid's court might prevent misunderstandings and vile attempts to colden Bayezid's heart towards mine. You could tell that extremely wicked people around him were waiting for the right time to dethrone him. I have always been their prior rival. I feared they might drag him into despair. Therefore, I am happy that you stayed in Edre on my behalf, although it was hard to keep in touch." Jaromir's reasoning was flawless and legitimate. I wish that I had attended the court and council meetings. I wanted to do what he assumed I did.

I couldn't tell that I had constantly pursued a married woman for four years - that I was going to have a child from her. Still, if I were in Bayezid's presence more often, he wouldn't plan to kill Jaromir. I woke up by Jaromir's command. "Thank you, gentlemen. You can go watch over the monastery now." The guards reverenced and walked in the opposite direction. Jaromir stopped and turned toward me. That was the first time I saw ambiguity on his face, a hazy sense in his eyes, doubtful ideas in his mind wanted to be conveyed from his tight, rigid lips.

"Where did you acquintain to Lady Helena?" I asked to perish that look. His eyes were luminous golden dots blinked a few times to eliminate the blur. "I am marrying her to have Siren Stone's support in the upcoming war." I was disappointed, but then I realized this answer was precise to his character. I couldn't imagine him being off-guard to a feeling. Love always snatches you in the most unpredictable ways. He wouldn't take anyone before his duties and his principles. "Most of the Balkans have turned their backs to Bayezid. They don't care about the oaths they once gave. I am doing what I can to attract more allies to Bayezid's side. I have talked to King Sigidmus. He sympathizes with Tigrisia, thus Danishmenthan. His army is too weak to reject my offer," he continued. The message I aimed to deliver became an imposition on my heart, slowly growing as he talked about his strategy to strengthen Bayezid's front.

We climbed the stairs and found ourselves in a hall crowded by maids carrying silk fabrics, satin shirts and capes. All the maids stopped and reverenced as they saw Jaromir. Giggling sounds were heard from the room with the open door. Then, the sound was descended and silenced. Jaromir turned to the maid standing nearby. "Can I go inside?" The maid rushed to the room and whispered words to the ladies inside. A young lady with long, straight, dark hair and hazel eyes appeared at the door. She was tall and wearing a white silk dress that was not reaching the ground. "Your Highness, my prince," she greeted. I attempted to take her hand. "Pleased to meet you, Lady Helena," I said. She looked at me, not knowing what to do. "She is not Lady Helena," Jaromir corrected. I straightened up. "My apologies," I said. I felt a shiver down my spine. For the first time, a highly appealing woman did not awaken a desire.

Furthermore, her black hair reminded me I had missed Tomris so much. The lady continued, "You may come in." As we walked into the room, I saw Lady Helena sitting on a high chair with her braids tied up and her face painted like a doll. I thought she was just a child, not more than eleven years old. She stood up, looking at Jaromir under possession. "My King," she approached Jaromir and took his hand. I was frozen, yet Jaromir was looking dormant. Helena turned to me. "Welcome Prince Vukasin. I have heard about your flatters." I was dazzled by how she spoke compared to her age. 

We left the room and walked to the high garden. Neither Jaromir nor I started a conversation till we reached there. He cashed the silence. "After the marriage, she will return to Siren Stone. She will have all the privileges of being my wife on paper. I will keep this marriage till the war breaks off. Then, I plan to have a more sustainable solution to keep the Siren Stone's pledge alliance to me. Meanwhile, she will be done with her duty to her family and live her childhood. This wedding is solely nominal." I nodded, yet I could tell it bothered him a great deal. Two monks approached. "Your grace, the high priest needs Silver Dragon to purge before the ceremony." Jaromir chuckled. "I don't think the holy water is enough to clean the dirt rubbed on that sword," he said, then placed his hand behind my neck. "I will see you at the monastery," he said, clenched my shoulder and followed the monks. 

I was alone, wandering around the garden. I noticed the clothes I had not undressed for over two weeks were inappropriate for my brother's wedding. I got back into the castle and reached the royal hall. I called the three servants walking along the way to bring Father's pelage of victory to my room. The room was as I left it in the first place. I opened the wardrobe and searched for a ceremonial costume. When the servants came, I had selected the navy blue silk shirt and black armour with a silver belt. Two of them dressed me while the third one combed the pelage. Lastly, they brought a sword with a diamond dragon wing decoration from the treasure. When I looked in the mirror, I recognized myself at last. 

I was bored and thought I could find a company in the main yard. At the front of the convoy, I identified Castaver talking with knights leaning on the columns. I called his name and waved. As he saw me, he finalized his speech with the knights and left them there, proceeding towards me beneath the convoy. Our hands clasped. "Long time no see, pal," I started. "Welcome, Vukasin," he said. He was looking tiredier than I remembered. "You got some time for a drink?" I asked. He tilted his head down, watched over and finally nodded. 

We exited from the gates of the rampart and headed to the city. I tried my chance to see if the Gardner Inn was still indwelled. It was. We ordered something that wouldn't make us flighty. "Tell me, Castaver. It seems like being the hand of the King tires you. You became an old dotard." He didn't laugh, just crippled his lips upwards like a half smile for a second. To start a conversation, I tried to remember his sister's name, who had always come to the castle, yet I couldn't recall it. "How are your sisters?" I asked instead. He gave me a burning stare, so I immediately escaped my eyes. "How many esteemed guests will be at the ceremony?"

I tried to change the subject. Taking a sip from his drink, he answered. "All the dukes and lords from North and South. I can tell that King Sigidmus and his wife, King Adonis and King Charlemagne are also attending. King Bayezid wrote that he could not make it, but he sent his good wishes." I howled unwillingly as I heard Adonis was called the King of Rumelia. "I still find it bizarre that he is acknowledged as a ruler. That twat does nothing but paint walls." Castaver didn't reply. I felt guilty to see him sallow. Putting my hand on his shoulder, I said, "My friend, tell me what it is." He leaned his fingers on his forehead, erasing an image from his mind. "I had a terrible dream," he said. I looked at how feeble he seemed and barely held myself from laughing. I stood up on the chair. "Greetings, fellows! Your prince has returned!" I shouted. People in the inn cheered with me. "I buy all of your drinks today on behalf of Commander Castaver. Show him your gratitude!" They all shouted his name and whistled. Castaver only raised his hand slightly to salute them behind his back. I sat next to Castaver again, quite pleased by what I did. He looked at me, wasted. "What?" I sloshed down the cup. Then the musicians played my favourite tavern song: Key to the Dragon's Heart. I punched Castaver's shoulder. "Come on!" He shooed me away with his hand. I joined the folks dancing and singing to the song. 

Give me the marmalade

 Flowers of a partial shade

Give me the wonders of the world arrayed

Cold here the carpets laid

Winter reached the frost raid

Fine ladies drink fine wine

The song we sing, the song we whine

Feed the dragon, fire the wooden

Favour is the key to the dragon's mercy

Fresh meat's the key to the dragon's mercy

Farmer Gorgi's daughter is the key to the mercy

Run child run

Fine ladies drink fine wine

Run child run

...

I looked back at our table, and Castaver was already gone. Suddenly, all my enthusiasm went away. I left the inn and walked back to the castle. The streets felt more strict and clean. There were city guards in every corner. No beggars or scums settled down on the sidewalks. I was satiated, thinking this was a better Tigrisa to introduce to Tomris and our child. Apprehension tolled my ears once again. I needed to tell Jaromir about the pregnancy. The castle was brighter. All the torches were lit up even though it was not even noon. I saw people had already started to enter the monastery. I slowly climbed the stairs to get into the royal passage to the monastery. I saw Adonis laughing in pleasure with his long, straw-coloured hair and sharp, shimmering teeth. I was glad his smile dwindled, as did mine when we saw each other. He approached and reached for a handshake. "Prince Vukasin," he said. I grinned, speaking my title; he desperately wanted me to call him King. "Adonis," I replied and shook the hand he offered. I knew he couldn't take his eyes off my pelage. "Shall we," I helped himself to the passage. We walked side by side. I could tell my appearance restrained him. How could he expect that I missed my brother's wedding even though I was about to if I had not got a message to deliver? Tomris' words echoed in my ear. "You must go before they trap you like they did to Queen Oksana." A thud stuck in my throat.

Bayezid had trapped my sister, but the moment's shock blurred my mind. She also told me Jaromir was marrying, and I was upside down. I tried to remember what else she said. "Are you alright?" Adonis asked uneagerly. I got to myself. "Yes, of course. Why wouldn't I be?" He hummed lightly. "Are you planning to stay after the wedding?" He asked, looking to the end of the passage. "Yes, I will be right by my brother further on," I answered. I couldn't believe it in my ears. I didn't know what I would do. His lips curled abhorred. 

We entered the monastery. I truly felt a divine touch; inside, it was so magnificent that I forgot why I had not visited the monastery before. The golden candlesticks exposed a luminous light as bright as stars. I stood next to my mother. Adonis set near Sigidmus. As the choir and lyre started to play, the harmony took me under its possession. The elocution made me forget all the matters that deeply worried me for a moment - it was a brief trip to paradise where everything had already ended, and no beginning could concern me. Mother got so sentimental that she took my hand. The head priest took the Silver Dragon out and raised it above to purge us all. The sword gleamed like a holy spirit as the sunlight entered from the little circle window atop the ceiling. Jaromir entered the monastery with his red golden-prominent cape with white fur attached. He was shaved and trimmed. The crown tied his hair. Without the spiky beard, his keen jaw gave a sense of determination - which I didn't believe he had while walking to the very end. Mother whispered to herself, hoping that I heard her. "It is unprecedented that the King enters the monastery wearing the crown. The priest has to place it on his head." I smiled. I knew Jaromir only respected warriors and knights to know as equals. He would never let the priest be his superior. "Now your brother became godless just like that man of a monster," she continued. The priest hesitated for a while, then continued to speak his prayer. After a while, the violins started to play, and Lady Helena Gattisio walked towards my brother, five maids taller than herself, holding the tail of her dress. She placed her hands on Jaromir's. For the slightest moment, Jaromir gave up his guards, the dominant face that said everything was resolute. His eyes met mine, reviewing what he was about to do one last time. Mother squeezed my hand, aware of the moment. I sealed him with a smile. Helena Gattisio kneeled in front of the priest who held the crown that once belonged to my mother. The priest raised the crown as he did to the sword. The choir got louder. I saw Jaromir's fingers behaving vaguely as he was counting numbers. He finally reached for the crown the priest was holding. Mother pinched my arm. Then she wrung it to apologize. He put the crown on Helena's head. It was a display of strength. Jaromir had announced himself as a god in front of dynasties of the Balkans and the spies he was confident that were in the monastery to gather knowledge. "You are now the Queen of Tigrisia," he said intensely, but his eyes were acrid. People stood up and then kneeled in front of their Queen. Between applause and claps, I saw Jaromir drop her hand. He had fulfilled his duty once again. 

The crowd was led to the garden with an endless feast on the table. Songs were played. People danced and sang. I saw Jaromir with Castaver and Adonis. King Sigidmus and his wife congratulated him. Helena was standing among them, nodding and smiling to everyone who passed. When Jaromir saw me, he approached as Castaver and Adonis followed. The acrid eyes were washed off with gratification. He was looking at the people like a captain eyeing his crew. He had scattered all the gold of the treasure to them and covered his poorness with the pleasure of the crew members. "Take a partner, join us dancing," he said, Helena's arm around his. Helena pointed to the dark-haired lady that I confused with her. "Elenora likes to dance, too," she said. Jaromir looked at me hopefully, waiting for me to ask the lady. I couldn't. Suddenly, the idea of another woman except Tomris' hands on my skin felt cold and hideous. That was when Mother joined us. "Three of us finally united and happy. I wish my dear Oksana could be here," she inhaled. I felt guilty conscious. While Oksana was seized and trapped, I was here celebrating. Castaver and Adonis were near, watching the ones dancing on the grass. Mother cleared her throat. "As your brother returned, Castaver doesn't need to save his place anymore," she said. I was ashamed in suspense, yet Jaromir was on the warpath. His eyes widened, and he inhaled smoke. Castaver turned to Mother. "Of course, Queen Miriam," he said insightfully. Jaromir raised his hand to silence him. "She is not the Queen anymore. The king's hand is Sir Castaver Wurdlich. This is my choice—the choice of the King. If you, Mother, disdain my decisions, I will question your fidelity," Jaromir said. I felt blue all of a sudden; I couldn't face Castaver, couldn't face Jaromir. I saw Adonis' lips curled, "Exploiter." Mother was standing straight right as a tower of bells. "Shame on you," she said to Jaromir. Jaromir was looking at her, frustrated. Then the song became joyful, and people jumped and clapped together. Helena cheered, "My king, would you like to dance?" Jaromir gently took her hand off his arm. As he was distracted, I headed to the castle. After what Mother said, I couldn't find the strength to be seen in the crowd. She represented me as a selfish mercenary. She gave a trump for Adonis. She descended my image on Jaromir's sight. She displayed it as if it was my idea, as if I was a little, spoiled prince whose mother talks on behalf of him. 

Walking straight into the castle, I was caught from my wrist. Jaromir was looking at me discerning. "As soon as I became the King, I wrote to you. I wanted you to be the King's hand. When you refused, I gave the duty to my most trusted man. Sir Castaver is marvellous on his own. In fact, I had nothing to compare him. This is my first experience being a king," he smirked. "He helps. No matter your title or position, you, my brother, will always be my first and best man. Nothing will change that," he grabbed my shoulder. I faced him and found an affinity in his eyes.

"I didn't want her to tell such a thing. I didn't even talk about it. I am always by your side, Jaromir. I don't desire to be the King's hand. Castaver is more disciplined than I could ever be." He exhaled. "I know. I suppose Mother's sole purpose is to see us side by side, yet this is not the way. I cannot make a commander resign." I felt despised as a knight, although I knew Jaromir saw me. He shook his head to the crowd, inciting me to come. "I just cannot face Castaver right now. I cannot eye him, considering what Mother declared. I feel... ignoble," I suffered to say. He nicked his tongue, looked at me cynically and grinned. He punched my chest vaguely. "I get it. See you after," he squinted his eyes and joined Helena in the arena. 

Walking in the empty corridors of the castle, every single word that the servants whispered echoed, hitting one wall to another. It got scorching suddenly, so I took the pelage out. If Jaromir didn't join Bayezid's feast, he would know that somebody within the castle spoiled his plan. I wondered whether they could pinpoint Tomris. I heard the guards and a lady quarrel as I approached the kitchen door. I understood that she had tried to sneak in, yet captured. "You do not understand. I need to see King Jaromir. It is urgent. It is vital!" She was screaming. "Jaromir!" I eyed her familiar look: wavy red hair and dark navy eyes. I recognized her, Castaver's sister. I tried to recall her name again, but unfortunately, I could not.

Nevertheless, I remembered that we had a great time together. The guardians stopped to push her out but captured her. "Gentlemen, this is not an appropriate way to behave on a lady." They reverenced. "She is my guest," I said. They reverenced again, apologized to me and then to her. One of them stood still. "My Prince, she refuses to state her identity." I looked at the guardian ridiculously. "No need for that," then sent them away. She kept her distance, raving at me. I waited for an appreciation, feeling her name was on my tongue. She creased her nose disgusted me. She then walked past. I eyed her, walking rapidly into the corridors. I was unmitigated and bored, so I decided to sneak after her, hoping that I could remember her name. She was in a hurry, looking into all the open doors and windows. I saw that Queen Barbara was walking towards us from the distance. Lady Wurdlich's steps got quicker. Queen paused and faced her gladly. "Darling Astrid, how long has it been?" That was it, Astrid Wurdlich. "My Queen," she reverenced. "I was hoping to visit you. This is such a miraculous coincidence." Barbara looked at her dully. "My dear, coincidence is not the right word to define it." Astrid's dry lips opened partway. "I am afraid you missed the wedding, but cheer up, darling, the celebrations go on," Barbara continued. Astrid kept the ambiguity on her face, shaken and tired to smile. "Excuse me, my queen, but whose wedding?" I strolled beneath a column. I had learned to disguise myself in the hallways back in Danishmenthan. Queen Barbara exhaled, her smile questioning Astrid's asking face. "The wedding of King Jaromir," she explained. Astrid's legs shuddered, eyes squinted in bewilderment. Queen Barbara farewelled with a tilt of her head and walked past her. 

Astrid stood still, helplessly scanning around. She was profoundly inhaling, her fingers searching for a support to rest. She overheard the song coming from the celebration. Gripping the bars of the fences, she advanced to where the cheers and melodies came from. For a moment, she seemed to be about to stumble. I attempted to leap out of my spot to catch her, yet the shadow that appeared at the end of the hallway froze me. The sublime presence of Mother with her luminous dress and diamond from the heart of the darkness stopped her. Astrid hardly reverenced, still resting on the bars. Mother approached her elegantly. Her chin was above Astrid's eyes. I felt the girl's fluttering heart stuck on the ice of the news. Mother eyed her from foot to head.

"You have no boundary, do you?" she spoke. Astrid's shivering face reached a sense of understanding. "My Queen, I know you think I am a traitor. I know you are angry at me, but you must listen. There is more in my story worth to tell." Mother stared at her, ready to deny all the excuses she could presume. Astrid told her about her vital sickness, about her belief that confessing this to Jaromir would distract him and harm him and the country. She admitted what she had said to Jaromir only to colden his heart towards her and help him forget her. She told her about her time in Barton Hills, that she was cured, and that she held superior knowledge to be shared with Jaromir immediately.

Against all this, Mother listened to her with patience and serenity. Finally, when she had no word to speak, she stopped looking at Mother's eyes hopefully. Mother touched her fingers together and exhaled desperately. "Do you think we were unaware of all this?" Astrid left dumbstruck. "My son is the King of Tigrisia. No bird can take a flight without his command. He knew it all along. He might have cared about you for a while. Of course, he knew you were not an appropriate match, so he sent you away when the time came. But you are used to this, aren't you?" Astrid's irises tilted insanely, aimlessly searching around, escaping her sight from Mother's truth. "This must be a mistake. I need to speak to King Jaromir. He will understand me. I need to see him," she repeated numerous times, her words mixed with air and utilized as acrid murmures at the end.

"You are descending, your remaining honour. My son is with his wife, Helena, the Queen of Tigrisia. The last thing you dare do is work to reconcile husband and wife. He knows you are here. He sent me to get you going. He told me to order to execute you if you refuse. I show mercy to you. Leave this country. Go back to where you came from. You don't belong here." Astrid was not crying. She seemed to be weeping and screaming, but there were no tears. She frowned her brows. "Jaromir! King Jaromir!" She started to shout as loudly as she could. Mother's face got sour. She faced the celebration. Three guards appeared beneath her. "Take her out," she demanded. Astrid's impotent eyes threw beams of fire at the guards. "You can't. You can't. Please, please, I need to..." They grabbed her from her arms. She was wretched. "Jaromir! Jaromir!" I couldn't stand still anymore. I got out from the back of the column. I loomed her behind. She was still weltering. She felt that I was there and stood still. I saw her lips curled upwards merrily. "Jaromir," he whispered. Then, the guards turned her out. She faced me. I saw her smile decomposing, her cherished eyes melting in letdown. She gave up. They dragged her through the hallways to out from the kitchen doorway. She seemed like a ghost gliding on the floor. 

Mother embraced me with her arm while I was watching Astrid cruelly hauled out like a scat. "Jaromir didn't know she was here. Jaromir didn't know anything. Why?" I said sternly. She rubbed my back and looked at me confidently. "This is for the betterment of your brother, even though he cannot see it right now," she condoned. I looked at her everlasting insistence - it was hard not to be impressed. She looked into my eyes as she always did - with admiration and care. "My boy, if you tell what happened here to your brother, he won't forgive me. He won't understand that I did it because I love my children more than anything. He will punish me, exile me. Considering his temper, from the celebration, he might even..." I shushed her, touching her rosemary cheek. "I won't tell him or anyone anything. This didn't happen," I whispered. She glanced at me with the exhilaration that I once again overindulged her. 

On the other hand, I couldn't prevent the inner voice of my conscience from pulling my feet to where she was dumped. She was quick, already vanished from view. I saw two fat men flipping coins at the corner of the back entrance of the garden of Dragon Nest. I caught the coin in the air. They grumbled uneasily at first. When they saw me, they gulped down and reverenced. "Have you seen a red-haired lady around?" One scratched his head. The other flicked his finger. "Yes, my prince, yet I cannot clearly remember where she went," he had a filthy smirk. I searched my pockets and found a small sac of gold. I threw the sac to him. He regained his memory instantly and pointed me the way. I was amazed at how rapidly she proceeded. After a while, I wondered whether the man led me wrong. 

I saw the crowd of citizens watching the celebration and the feast beneath the rampart. After a while standing there, I found myself blended in. People were waving and cheering the name of their King. Between the flesh and skin, I saw a redhead. I scrolled over the people to reach her, yet every time I attempted to approach, the crowd showed resistance, and I found myself even rearward. She faced back briefly, and I ensured she was Astrid. She climbed on the rampart, resting on the yield of people. "Jaromir!" she shouted. The whole crowd repeated, "King Jaromir!" She tried to stand still. "Jaromir!" she cried. Again, the entire crowd cheered, "King Jaromir!" She slid into the crowd, falling from the shoulders. I could only see her slightly when people leapt on each other. I saw something luminous on her hand. "Long Live King Jaromir!" people exclaimed. "Long Live Queen Helena" people called. Then, a sudden scream cut the whole diversion. 

A space occurred in the middle of the crowd. People cried. They looked at the bloodshed like a herd, thinking the sky burns during sunrise. I saw the bright and clean dagger standing on the lake of blood. It was the Golden Dragon that once belonged to my father. Astrid's motionless fingers were still touching its handle. I was startled and became one of the members of the herd. People were looking at each other. King guards from inside the castle joined the city watchers. The soulless body of the girl was faced to the sky. She had stabbed herself in the heart. The sunset amused her navy eyes.