Fallen

Chapter 2

The sun was still shining, just barely, over the horizon, a river of gold flowing onto the grass. I had been sleeping, woken by a bump in the road.

Flynn was reading a book, not noticing that I had woken. I decided to take a moment and watch him read, trying to control my breathing so he wouldn't notice. He looked calm and carefree, something unfamiliar to me.

After a couple of moments, he looked up and shut his book. Smiling, that charming, disarming smile, he took my hands.

"I'm glad to see you awake, my love. I've been waiting. We are almost to the village outside Thesselos." He sat back, relaxing a bit. "I have a whole day planned out for us when we get there."

"Flynn- My darling- We're here on business. I have to visit with the nobles, make sure they're-"

"And that business can wait. We only have a couple of weeks left till we're married and I take the title of your consort."

I flinched. I hated any talk of politics, especially of the position of consort. I was always warned of people trying to take my kingdom.

"I know you don't like it but... but it's reality. We must take advantage of the time we have- unmarried and unburdened."

I sighed, looking out the window.

"I don't have time to relax and just... do anything besides business." I saw his face again. "I'm the queen of a nation, I have people's lives and noble loyalty hanging on my shoulders." Moving across the carriage, grabbing his hand, sitting next to him, I said, "I would love to spend time with you, but this is very pressing. Maybe tomorrow."

Flynn closed his eyes and shook his head softly.

I knew it wasn't his intention, but he didn't understand the guilt I feel every time he does this. I understood he wanted to spend time with me, but I had enough on my plate. As the queen, it was my duty to put my country before my heart.

He was silent for a moment, but finally, he responded. "Okay. I'll wait. Just don't be too hard on yourself, please. The last thing I'd want is to see you burned out."

We were silent for the rest of the ride.

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We finally arrived in the grand city of Thessalos. I'd only ever been there once before when I was young. I had visited with my father, and it was exactly as I remembered. Colorful buildings line the street: open markets, shops, homes, and an amphitheater. Also being a port city, there were huge ships along the blue water.

Our carriage rolled into town, and while I remembered people hiding and cowering for my father, it was different this time. People came out to greet me. I heard cheering in the streets, I saw our flag flying proudly in the sky. In the distance I could hear them chanting, "All hail the Queen!" and "It's Queen Medea!"

We passed the gates of the manor, and I saw the staff gathering outside, and straight in front of us, two people who appeared to be noble. I took in the sight of the lavish gardens, expansive paths, and gorgeous architecture. When we stopped, the footman came to the door to help me out. I felt the cool March breeze on my face as I stepped out, with Flynn following.

We were greeted by the people I came to do business with: Lord and Lady Burkas. Two of the most influential nobles in the realm, I depended on their help and their support.

Lord Burkas approached me and bowed, greeting me with the obligatory "Your Highness" and kissed my hand.

"Welcome to Thessalos, our grand port city. I hope it meets your expectations." He said, taking his wife's hand. I loved the sound of his voice, it was clear and deep, soothing my nerves.