Chapter 20: Chapter Twenty

The hour was growing late by the time Gavin stepped through into their chambers. Lying in bed, Elaine heard his heavy, familiar footsteps in the other room. She didn't move, choosing to leave him alone as requested. Clothes rustled and metal clinked as he undressed. A glass decanter jingled. Alcoholic liquid gurgled into a glass. The stopper was replaced with a clink.

Her back to the doorway, she laid still, wondering if he would even speak to her. They hadn't exactly had a fight but she was hurt and angry. He couldn't shove her aside and expect open arms.

His hulking, angelic silhouette fell across the bed and her heart beat faster. Spicy cologne wafted to her nose as he came closer. The bed dipped and he slipped under the duvet. A warm hand gripped her hip as he kissed her neck.

“I'm tired, Gavin.”

He paused, his breath warming her cheek. “What's wrong?”

Tears burned behind her eyes. “You can't push me away and expect my love in bed. I have pride too, you know.”

He removed his hand but remained near. “I was afraid that I would hurt you. That's why I asked you to leave.”

“I don't remember a polite request. You ordered me to leave like an errant child.”

“Won't you look at me?” he pleaded.

“Where were you all day? I waited at dinner but you never arrived. I thought you must be angry with me.”

A soft gasp moved her hair. “I didn't mean...I lost track of time, that's all. There was so much to do before tomorrow.”

“I'm not foolish. I know you are in pain and have lost everything. I can't fill that void completely but you should have let me try.”

Tears slid down her cheeks, wetting her pillow. Gentle though insistent, his long fingers turned her towards him. On her back, she struggled to stop crying. He leaned over her, regret darkening his green eyes.

“You are my bride and forever love. I apologize for hurting you. I was so consumed with memories that I didn't realize what I had said.” He gathered her into his arms. “But there is something I need to say too. In my sixty-three years, there have been events which shaped who I am. Most of them I can't speak about.”

“Even to me?” she asked, sniffling. “Your secrets are safe in my heart. Don't you trust me?”

His heart rate increased against her arm.

“I've never learned how to deal with those memories. The serum is part of the problem. Induced aggression is useful in battle but causes emotional surges which are hard to control. Unless bad memories are locked away, I could hurt anyone nearby or even destroy myself.”

“You don't mean...suicide?”

“I wouldn't if in my right mind but once the aggressive urge takes over, anything can happen. You have to get away from me quickly if you see me losing control.”

Her tears drying up, she began to understand. “I trust you. Together, we will harness those moments and find healing. You've been through such atrocities. Give yourself credit for surviving, my love.”

“I won't risk your safety. In our marriage, both of us will need brief times apart. I promise to be kinder when I need to be alone. Next time, you needn't doubt my love for you.”

His lips brushed against her forehead. She tilted her head to kiss him, tasting brandy on his tongue. Her fingers tangled in short, golden curls. A passionate moan escaped her as their mouths eased apart.

Gazing down upon her, he caressed her cheek. “I love you, wife. No other woman has or ever could fulfill my needs with such tenderness.”

“Are you sure that some young, virginal handmaiden or conniving noblewoman isn't going to catch your eye?” she asked, teasing him.

He chuckled. “All I need is your kind heart and luscious body to warm my nights. You are home.”

Content again, she snuggled closer to him. Stress had exhausted both of them. Keeping her warm, Gavin fell asleep quickly. Elaine listened to his peaceful breathing. Rest didn't come easily that night for she dreaded the next day.

The morning dawned too soon. Early, she lay awake. Her thoughts raced over scenarios, plans and worries. She prayed for her sleeping husband. He breathed easily, unaware of her anxiety over him. Antonius had been right to leave him innocent to Lucas' treason.

He stirred next to her, his eyelids heavy. “Can't you sleep, my love? What's wrong?”

“Only wondering what will happen today.” She turned toward him, resting on an elbow. “I'm scared for you.”

“I will be fine.”

“You always say that and I have to learned to never believe you.”

He smiled, putting an arm behind his head. “You're a smart girl. I keep forgetting this.”

“So? What do you really think?”

“Antonius and the rest of the Praetorian Guard are on high alert. Even so, Darius has many supporters. There may be trouble.”

She bit her lip, staring at the ceiling. “Do you trust Tribune Lucas?”

“That's an odd question. I've seen that you much prefer my uncle to Antonius.”

“You didn't answer my question.”

Gavin exhaled, thinking for a moment. “My uncle is a hard man to figure out. He visited Darius often when we were growing up but never took an interest in me. I don't trust him. But to be fair, I say the same for everyone except you and Antonius.”

“Be careful. I am learning fast that we can't trust anyone.”

He pulled back to look at her. “My darling, I won't go through life glancing over my shoulder. Some rulers have done but I want our life to be different. All that can be done is to prepare and be cautious. We must live our lives and let tomorrow take care of itself.”

His strength calmed her fearful heart. “I'm having trouble seeing past this day. It looms like a black cloud over our marriage.”

“Well, I won't have my new bride feeling that way so soon after our wedding.” he grinned. “Once Darius is dealt with, I will arrange for us to be given two or three weeks for ourselves. Perhaps more time if possible. Just we two with no interruptions.”

She forced a smile, knowing how hard he was trying to ease her mind. “That's a lovely thought. Thank you.”

“Will you be able to go back to sleep?”

“I'd rather forget about our troubles for awhile. Lay there and I'll make you feel good. It's my turn to work.”

His smile deepened as she threw off the covers. “Have your way with me then, little minx.”

Desperation swept over her, a wish to savor this precious moment. Sex held a hidden meaning this time. She was a woman possessed, worshiping the man whom had given her life and purpose.

Pushing him onto his back, she straddled his legs. Her fingers roamed over his chest and massaged his corded shoulders. Leaning down, she kissed him and reveled in the moans which escaped him.

His hands gripped her hips, attempting to take control. She captured his wrists, pinning them above his head. With indulgence, he grinned and laid still even though his strength could easily throw her off.

Pleasure and love multiplied inside her. Power fueled her desire as he became a helpless slave to her whims. Desire consumed his face. Putting years of tricks to good use, she didn't hold back any useful knowledge.

Exotic delights rained down upon him until he couldn't hold himself any longer. When he cried out, she hoped that his pain had been forgotten even a little. He lay catching his breath afterward while she kissed away the sweat from his neck.

Still in the early morning hours, they lay together in a tangle of wings and sheets. Sleep claimed them for a short period until their servants woke them for the day ahead. The doorbell tinkled, interrupting the lovers in their wedded bliss.

Elaine kissed her husband awake. “Good morning, handsome. I guess we can't put off this day any longer.”

“I'll be by your side, today and the rest of my life.” He stretched and smiled. “Remember how much I love you and don't be afraid.”

The couple's breakfast was hurried, neither eating much. Returning to their rooms, they were dressed in finery. Each outfit had been chosen for the most effect. Symbols of power and intimidation.

Elaine had chosen a purple, one-shoulder tunica, trimmed with gold embroidery. The neckline dipped sharply between her breasts, showing off extra skin. An emerald necklace glinted at her neck and matching bobbles dripped from her earlobes. A spiked crown was settled upon her loose auburn hair. Jewels sparkled and flashed, weighing heavily upon her small head.

Antonius' dagger, encased in a gold scabbard, hung by a delicate chain around her waist.

Gazing into the mirror, she saw not her lowly self but a queen. Royal authority surged through her veins as she joined Gavin to leave the compound. Upon catching sight of him, tears filled her eyes. While she had been clothed in colorful elegance, he was sheer angelic brilliance itself.

The color of royalty, a purple tunic stopped at his knees, baring muscular legs. Polished gold armor protected his precious body. Etchings of lions and a radiant sun adorned the breastplate. The armor was encrusted with opal, emeralds and rare red diamonds. Trimmed with white fur and festooned with red plumes, a gold laurel crown adorned his blonde curls. This too was set with dozens of gems. A purple cape hung from his shoulders, brushing his heels.

Aside from these luxurious trappings, mild nervousness wrinkled his brow. She smiled, never so much in love with him. As he approached her, she curtsied to convey her appreciation. A chuckle reached her ears. His gentle hand lifted her chin.

“Never bow to me, my queen.” Approval glinted in his eyes. “You are my ravishing, exquisite equal. Simply beautiful.”

Accepting his warm grasp, she blushed. “Not even close. I feel like an imposter standing beside a stranger.”

A sheepish grin tugged at his mouth. “I feel a bit uncomfortable in this finery. Almost as if I'm dressing above my station. I've always been a soldier, not an idle dandy.”

“I see a powerful, formidable ruler, unyielding in his convictions yet merciful to those beneath himself.”

“Such flattery will get you everywhere.”

“I'm counting on that.”

Chuckling together, the couple exited the compound under a purple canopy. Rain was falling but they were kept dry. A white and gold coach awaited, hitched to six black chargers. The magnificent stallions were adorned in red harness, white feathers fluttering between each pair of twitching ears.

Gavin assisted his queen into the open vehicle and climbed in beside her. They stood side by side, leaning on a gold rail for support. The brief ride to Novus' capital city was made in silence.

The portal shimmered to life before the procession; On a bay steed, Antonius rode next to the coach as it passed through.

Elaine steeled herself for the abrupt change of scenery. Green, rolling hills and sterile military buildings gave way to boisterous crowds which lined a wide thoroughfare. The sun shone brightly upon the city, a blessed change from dismal rain. Trumpets were blown, heralding their arrival.

Olympian citizens roared to life, applauding and shouting their support for their new rulers. Great banners, Imperial flags and gold standards from all seven continent states were held aloft among the crowd. The capital of Olympia was aflame with raucous celebration, drink flowing freely.

Under intense scrutiny, Elaine trembled but kept her head held high. Glancing to her left, she caught a saucy wink from her husband. As long as she remained fixed upon him, courage steeled her resolve. A cool breeze caught his wings, fluttering the proud feathers. His back was ramrod straight while he waved to the passing crowds.

Underneath that calm exterior, she could see a nervous heart beating wildly. His hand wouldn't let go of hers. He clung to her as a starving man to a meal. Only she could read the subtle lines within his smooth forehead and know what he was truly thinking.

She squeezed his fingers and gave him a reassuring smile.

The black stallions pranced onward and halted outside the palace archway. Per Novian custom, noblemen and society's elite formed a path up the marble steps. The couple stepped from the coach, ready to enter their new residence. Walking behind her husband, Elaine kept her eyes on his wings. She reminded herself to breathe.

So many eyes were upon them. Bows and curtsies welcomed their passage. Whispers merged behind them, creating a low hum among those present. Magnificent double doors led into the palace's ostentatious interior. Footmen lined the hallways, dressed in expensive silken robes.

Red carpets running under their feet were familiar to her. She had walked down these corridors when brought before Darius. Being back was surreal and uneasy. Gavin must be feeling anxiety as well. The last time they had stepped foot here, he had been drug away to be tortured and humiliated.

The procession rounded the final corner and entered the throne room.

Gold ropes lined the court on either side, keeping those present at bay. Bejeweled ladies waited on the arms of senators, wealthy lords and the modest gentry. Even humble farmers and shopkeepers were represented in the assembly. Hope filled the eyes of those gazing back. After such a traumatic end to the former emperor, there was a hungry shadow in the expectant faces.

Several haughty noses rose in the air but not enough to spoil the day.

A profound realization dawned on her. She saw a different side to savage, unforgiving Novus. Respect and compassion unfurled within her bosom. For the first time, she understood what Gloria had been trying to tell her. This planet's colorful citizens deserved another chance to reveal their good nature.

Gavin smiling down upon her. His left hand extending toward her, a silent request twinkled in his eyes. Her short fingers were swallowed by his long ones, held out for all to see. They ascended five marble steps. A breathless hush awaited their arrival at the top.

One smaller than the other, two thrones sat beneath yet another purple canopy. White curtains hung down on either side, pulled back by gold cords. Gold-plated, the right seat was upholstered with red velvet. The smaller left chair was trimmed with silver and boasted white fur. The Imperial crest, a pair of wings sprouting from a sword, had been emblazoned onto the chairbacks.

As a synchronized pair, Gavin and Elaine faced the court and sat down; gold for the emperor and silver for his queen. Led by Antonius, twenty winged guardsmen approached and dropped to one knee before them. In the traditional salute, their friend rapped his fist against his chest.

“Gracious Majesties, I pledge my last dying breath to your illustrious persons. The Praetorian Guard will protect and serve to our deaths. May your offspring rule for another thousand years and beyond.”

Gavin inclined his crowned head. “Rise, Centurion Antonius. As my first official act of office, I hereby promote you to the rank of Commander and appoint you as head of the Guard in place of the late Commander Marconus. May honor and duty guide this promotion.”

While somber applause trickled through the court, trumpets sounded from outside the balcony. A roar was heard rising from the streets outside. Elaine wondered what was happening out there but didn't have the confidence to ask.

A guard marched before the emperor and bowed at the waist. “Your Majesty, the traitor, Darius, is being brought through the city streets. Centurion Rigdel requests to know the prisoner's fate.”

“Bring him before me for judgment,” Gavin commanded, his deep voice resonating off the throne room's frescoed ceiling and green silken walls. “Justice for my father's murder will commence this day.”

Struck with a deep fear, Elaine glanced around for Lucas. He was standing with the rest of the military council to her right. She caught Antonius' eye. His head dipped in a slight nod. She smiled briefly, reassured by his watchfulness. No doubt, he had troops watching Lucas' every move.

Darius' muffled protestations could be heard echoing up the inner hallways. The moment she had dreaded was coming true. That wretched, evil man being in Gavin's presence again was an insult.

Sensing her angst, her husband leaned towards her. “My love, we are facing this together. Soon, it will be over and we may enjoy ourselves.”

The whispered reassurance calmed her somewhat. A soft smile crossed his face briefly. She smiled back. But when Darius was herded before them, a hard expression clenched Gavin's jaw.

Expecting a different welcome, Darius had dressed in his finest clothes which were now torn and disheveled. The little man had been bound and gagged. He cut a pathetic, weak figure contrasted against the room's grandeur. His face registered disbelief, dark eyes darting between the couple.

Elaine couldn't hide a smirk as the traitor was flung before the thrones. Hitting the stone steps, he grunted harshly. Seeing him grovel before her husband was satisfying beyond belief. Gavin didn't move or address his brother.

Centurion Rigdel stood over the prisoner and looked to his superior. “My lord, how do you wish to proceed?”

“I will allow him the opportunity to defend himself.” Gavin motioned his permission. “Remove the gag.”

Discontented murmurs trickled through the onlookers as Darius was freed from the metal bit. In an act of vile hatred, he spat saliva towards his brother. Gasps and infuriated cries rose up. Gavin raised a calming hand to silence the court.

“What are the crimes of which my brother stands accused?” he asked. “Give me the scroll.”

Centurion Ridgel walked up the steps and placed the document into his sovereign's hand.

Unfurling the paper, Gavin read aloud a summary of what was written there. “Darius, son of Sessilee, on this day, the fourteenth day of Maius, you are therefore charged with high treason because of these following actions taken. The murder of Hadrian, Emperor of Novus. The murder of Lydia, Empress Consort of Novus. The twice-attempted murder of the present Emperor Gavinicius, son of Hadrian.”

The centurion accepted the scroll and saluted. “What shall stand on record as your formal advisement, my lord?”

Inscrutable, Gavin cast his eyes down at his brother for the first time. “Once witnesses are gathered, these charges will be brought before the senate for debate. If said prisoner is found guilty, I must advise execution-by-exile. Such is the just punishment for convicted traitors.”

“There is no proof in those charges!” Darius screamed, red in the face, “I was tricked! A cheating, lying bastard sits on the throne and he has bewitched you stupid fools. I will destroy him and take back what is mine!”

With a raging scream, he threw himself forward. The guardsmen overpowered him easily before he could reach the throne. He was drug backward, gnashing his teeth and kicking out. Antonius punched him in the stomach, putting a swift end to the struggle. Driven to his knees, the prisoner sobbed.

Astonished at the display, Elaine was distracted as Gavin rose, his wings stiff with anger. He stepped down the stairs, one by one. She held her breath. His shadow fell across Darius blubbering on the floor.

“After all that has been done, brother, I have nothing of value to say to you either. May your death contain more mercy than you have ever shown another living soul.”

Sweat beading on his brow, Darius lifted his eyes. “Our mother...only we remember her now. Will you slay your own flesh and blood?”

Lowering himself onto one knee, Gavin smiled without feeling. With a swift tug, he tore the gold necklace from his wretched brother's neck. An Imperial crest medallion caught the light, spinning on its broken tether.

“This was my father's. You had no problem slaying him and stealing what is my rightful inheritance. Our brotherhood ceased to exist when you almost succeeded twice in killing me. Everyone around you ends up dead, including our mother. I'll see you at your execution, former brother. Until then, you'll rot in a cell.”

Standing up and turning away, he signaled the guards to remove the prisoner. Gagged again, Darius fought and sobbed as he was hauled from the room. Elaine smiled as her husband took his seat once more. His chin was firm and expression grave. He handed his father's precious medallion to her for safekeeping.

“Lords and ladies of all ranks, this day is monumental in Imperial and Novian history. As I have married your beautiful Empress two days ago, the dynasty is secure for the future. Now is the time for celebration of a new era and mournful remembrance. Be assured, my father's unworthy end was not in vain. As soon as possible, I will sanction a week of mourning to be observed each year for Emperor Hadrian and his murdered family members. Such a tragedy will not happen again, I pledge.”

Gavin's speech was greeted with quiet murmurs and bowed heads. Then it was time for introductions. Herded past, each guest left a small gift, jewels mostly, and repeated an oath of allegiance. Each one bowed or curtsied, paying homage to the newborn power on the throne.

Elaine was touched by the respect and appreciation bestowed upon her. Never in her short life had she been treated with such delicacy. Novus contained many sparkling charms as she was discovering, acceptance among them.

Deep inside though, she never forgot the lurking danger posed by Lucas' possible treachery. The soldier had left when Darius was taken away. At least, the proper precautions had been set in place. Antonius stayed near at Gavin's side.

The following hours would reveal the truth, she suspected. Either a hand would be raised against them or Lucas would try to slip out of the city. Each scenario should end in the traitor's death.