18 Rumors of War (1/2)

For weeks James stayed in his room, sitting by the window. Every day he wished to be able to see again, but then perhaps it was better this way. Now he wouldn't have to see Lilly's scarred face. Asiis tried often to coax him out of his room long enough for the tutors to teach him something. Anything to distract his mind from his constant brooding. He learned much, but was often distracted by twinges of recognition, sorrow, joy, and anger that came from the parts of him that were Adremedian and Gerrabella The blood between the peoples spoke much about the general goings on.

It wasn't long after that he noticed a familiar scent coming from the throne room. He entered the room.

'Lilly?' he wondered.

'Your Highness,' she replied.

”James,” Carthago said. ”Come in. I have something here I would like you to confirm.”

”Yes. What is it, Carthago?” James asked, ignoring Lilly's presence.

”I have a message here that says the Gerrabellas are planning another attack and to ask you to confirm it. Is it true?”

”I don't...”

'Pay attention to how you feel, James,' Lilly said.

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”Shut up, Lilly! I don't think we can rule out that possibility, but I doubt they will be attacking anytime soon.”

”The message says within two months.”

James felt the Gerrabella inside leap for joy at the thought of war and the plans were laid bare. He looked sick.

”James?”

”Call the Generals together. The message is correct.”

”Very well, James. I'll call them, but if you put a confirmation so lightly over a woman again, you could bring this kingdom to its knees! Am I understood?”

”Yes, my Lord.”

”Now, I want you to stay here and work out your issues with this Adremedian then join us in the briefing room.”

James bowed and Carthago left.

For a long time, neither spoke. In the silence, Lilly stepped closer to him. She stood in front of him for several moments before she spoke.

'I apologize, Your Highness, for any hurt feelings you have because of me.'

'You should,' he replied. 'How could you betray me so easily? Is it because I have changed?'

'No, Your Highness. After we left, I blacked out. I had only been awake for an hour when you entered the forest.'

'And Briar? What did he do those two days?'

'Kept an eye on me'

'A close eye, no doubt. I bet he even held you while you slept.'

'No. He left me in a healing tree and kept his distance. Briar respects my position and will keep it that way.'

'Likely story. You just don't want to admit that you don't like me anymore.'

'James,' she said softly, touching his cheek.

He remained unmoved.

'When you're ready to accept the truth, you know where to find me.' Then she kissed him briefly.

'Are you trying to kill me?!' he yelled, pushing her away.