The Seer's Curse

Chapter 2- No Trace

The idea to wait until her birthday seemed great at the time, but the reality of sitting at home on the farm while dreaming of the capital was not as ideal. Cora still wasn’t thrilled about Tate practicing her magical skills, but knew the ability to control them was the only way to truly be safe. Still not trusting anyone else with the knowledge of her powers, Cora and Miles took on the task of training Tate. It started small with daily focus on predicting the future. In the past, things had just come to her as visions, but after more practice Tate was able to concentrate on certain people or events and come up with pretty clear understandings of the future. She still couldn’t see more than a day in advance, but the power seemed to still be developing.

Going back in time was a much trickier task to master. Anything over a 10-minute rewind had Tate exhausted and unable to function for the rest of the day. Instead, Cora had Tate manipulating only a minute or two at a time. They worked on this near constantly throughout the day, and eventually Tate’s endurance built up and she was able to reverse an entire hour without needing a rest. This power clearly had dangerous repercussions if anyone were to discover it. The family worked tirelessly to keep Tate’s trainings a secret. This had them all exhausted most of the time, but Tate secretly loved the adventure of it all.

A few people from the capital came to check on Tate throughout the long wait. Tate’s heart skipped a few beats when the first caravan arrived. She found herself longing to see Cal again. They only spent one day together, but she was given the title of his betrothed, and the whole kingdom was aware of this. Alas, the first visitors brought luxurious gifts, dress makers, a private tutor and an eloquently written love letter, but not Cal. He spared no expense on the gifts, or devious detail in the letter. His goal was to entice her to join him early, and given what he promised, she was seriously considering it.

The tutor and a guard stayed for the remainder of her time in the village. Sonja was to teach Tate everything she would need to know in the capital as a member of the court and as the future Queen. The information was boring and Tate found herself manipulating time on more than one occasion to learn the details better. Cora warned her not to tamper too much though. With all magic, there is a trace, and skilled individuals could read those traces and find out her secret. Tate was getting pretty cocky with her powers and she felt she could easily get away with using them at home and even when she left for the capital.

Something that surprised Tate was that Cal was extremely gifted as a member of the royal family. His strength and ability to move through the air astonished her, and she couldn’t wait to see him in action. She found herself writing letters to Cal in her spare time. The truth was that she barely knew the man, and while deep down she felt a connection with him, she was scared to leave everything she had for him. Cal must have felt a similar desire to get to know his chosen Queen and he had letters delivered every few days.

Their notes back and forth revealed much about the young couple. It also fueled a deeper hunger for them to be together. With one month left until Tate’s birthday, she decided to leave for the capital early. A caravan was scheduled to pick her up in 2 weeks, but between her parents, her guard and Sonja, they were able to gather enough horses to leave early and surprise the King.

The journey was to take several days. It was exhausting and didn’t seem as glamorous as her first vision was with sharing Cal’s horse. Just the idea of that memory had Tate craving his touch again. She imagined all the things that might happen at the capital, but his touch was her favorite to dream of. Lost in thought on the trip, Tate frequently found herself almost feeling Cal touch her in places no one ever had. During one such day dream, Cora interrupted her not so pure thoughts.

“Tate… there is something I have been meaning to talk to you about.” The mother and daughter glided their horses towards the back of the traveling group and continued their conversation in private. “There is no easy way to tell you this.” Cora paused much longer than Tate was used to in their normal chats.

“You can tell me mother…” Tate could sense she was nervous but had no idea why.

“Remember how your father and I prayed for a child, then the gods blessed us with you?” Tate simply nodded in understanding while Cora continued. “That isn’t the entire truth. You see, I was never able to get pregnant. The gift the gods gave us was that of a lost young girl looking for help.” Cora started to cry then, but Tate remained quiet and still. “She was pregnant, and needed a place to stay and have her baby. We didn’t know the circumstances of her pregnancy, but she was desperate for help and wanted to find the baby a loving home. Your father and I were more than happy to help her with whatever she needed and she stayed with us.” The tears slowed at this point in the revelation and Cora became more serious. “Her labor was much easier than any I had assisted before. It was almost as if she had some magical abilities. Which, looking back I think she clearly did. I delivered you, and the moment we touched, I fell in love with you as my daughter. Thea couldn’t even look at you and asked that you be taken away. Miles came and took over your care while I helped Thea. She wasn’t a bad mother. She had clearly been through a lot and knew she couldn’t keep you. She made me promise to never tell you of your true birth… but I feel I must warn you now. I know that she was from the capital and she had plenty of money to be well taken care of. Not many could have afforded the things she had with her.”

There was another pause in the story as they stopped for a stretch break. The women continued there talk on a walk to a nearby creek to get some water. “Tate, you must understand. The capital is full of evil. I am not saying that Cal is a part of that, but you need to keep your eyes, ears and heart open to these truths. Now I don’t think Thea was her real name, but I would recognize her anywhere. She had silver white hair, and your same emerald eyes. The older you get, the more you remind me of her. Someone is bound to connect the dots if she was as important as I believe she was.”

Tate was more than a bit overwhelmed by this knowledge. It wasn’t shocking for her, as she had suspected her redheaded father and black-haired mother did not genetically belong to her, but it was still a lot to absorb. They walked back to the horses in silence, as the two processed everything from the past, and that lie ahead. “Mother, thank you for saving me, and for saving Thea. I owe you more than I could ever repay. Please know that I love you and always will.” Tate hugged Cora before continuing on their long journey to the capital.

After two more days of travel the group arrived at the edge of the city. At this point in the journey, the king had to be notified of his surprise guests. The security was a bit intense at the gates, and that’s putting it lightly. Within a few minutes, the gates were opened and Tate and her family were welcomed with an exaggerated display of military power awaiting them inside the capital. They had never seen anything like it, and Tate found it all a bit overwhelming. She had heard of the wars, and violence that marred Asmara’s past, but never had she seen the lasting physical evidence of the bleak history. It was a reminder of all that she needed to learn.

As they made their way through the capital streets, Tate was distracted by all of the different sights and smells. There were street vendors with all sorts of delicious smelling foods, flower shops, fabric stores, and supplies for more things than she could ever imagine. This was nothing like the small village she grew up in and she was beginning to feel more than a bit unprepared. Even her new fancy clothes weren’t enough to help her fit in.

“Mother? Have you ever been here?” Tate quietly asked Cora, hoping for some reassurance.

“A long time ago, I was born here, but my family left during the wars. It wasn’t safe anymore. It seems that a lot has changed.” Cora admitted, but still seemed just as nervous as Tate was. It wasn’t long before more royal guards came to greet the visitors and led them to the palace. The King was rushing to come and greet Tate as fast as possible. The anticipation of her arrival had been almost more than he could bear, and this surprise was just what he needed. Duties of the throne were necessary, but didn’t spark joy in Cal’s heart. Finding Tate had brought meaning to his life again, and his new found purpose was finally here.

“Jack, please finish up these things for me… I need to go.” Cal was almost running out the door as he yelled his orders.

“But Your Majesty, this meeting is important. You can’t shun your duties for some village girl…” Barrett didn’t hide his disgust for Cal picking a commoner as his bride. He had wanted a marriage from another kingdom to help solidify alliances and bring more wealth to Asmara. What he didn’t say was that he planned on taking Cal’s bride as his own whenever he was able to get rid of him, but he didn’t want this one.

“You deal with them then. I trust you uncle…” That was the last they heard from the King as he was out the door to find his betrothed. Taking off in a run, he found himself flying through the air before he knew it. He didn’t use this power often in the capital, but it was as if it was out of his control in this moment. The girl that had captured his heart 5 months ago, was here and he couldn’t wait any longer.

Tate saw him coming, or rather flying over the gates to find her. All the insecurities the walk through the capital had stirred in her melted away at the sight of her now beloved king. He had won her over that very first day, but their continued letters and the distance had her desperate to be with him again. She only hoped that he wouldn’t be disappointed in her after so many months apart. At first sight, Cal engulfed Tate in his arms, lifting her up and spinning her in the air. Tate let out an uncontrolled scream as she realized they were no longer on the ground. “I’m sorry my Queen, I forgot you aren’t used to this yet.” He landed but didn’t let go, instead he leaned in for a kiss. Tate was still a bit overwhelmed by his greeting that she shied away from his advances.

“I just need a moment, please.” Tate almost whispered to Cal as she held him close instead.

“That’s alright, this must all be a lot to take in. If you had waited for me to come get you… I was planning on telling you about everything on our journey.” His sincere nature was winning Tate’s heart all over again.

“Would you rather I waited for you then?” Tate was teasing, and knew that neither of them wanted to wait any longer to be reunited.

“Absolutely not! You have made me the happiest King there ever was by surprising me! Come, there is much to see and we must get everyone settled.” He led them to his personal wing in the palace and showed them to their rooms. Tate’s was last, and obviously filled with the finest of things. The bed had four large posts and was draped in the most beautiful rose gold fabrics. Gold trim outlined all the white furniture, and the walls seemed to have a fantastical mural around the whole room. There was an open fireplace at one end, and what appeared to be a full bathroom attached with actual running water. Tate had only heard of this amenity and couldn’t believe she had it in her room.

“This is amazing. I’ve never seen such wonderful things. Did you pick all this out?” She was leading Cal around the room investigating all the beautiful decor.

“No, it was my mother’s room before she died.” Tate felt a bit awkward at this knowledge and slunk back a bit.

“I am sorry to hear about your loss.” She really had no idea what Cal’s life was like before they met, and she felt awful for not trying to learn more from Sonja while she was still in the village.

“No need, she died when I was very young, and my father died almost 5 years ago now.” He lifted Tate up for a real kiss. She wasn’t going to fight him this time and happily gave in to his frisky desires. Their lips danced, and soon Cal was tasting every bit of exposed skin on Tate’s neck and chest. She was enjoying his body heat, and felt both of their arousals become obvious. His hands roamed up her back and tried unsuccessfully to undo the ties holding her dress in place. Tate was struggling to catch her breath in the moment and just managed to squeak out a few words.

“Cal… I have just arrived… maybe I could take a bath and change my clothes?” This was the perfect excuse to stop his advances that she wasn’t entirely ready for.

“If you must… I’ll be in my room, just through here. I’ll send in a maid to help you and bring a clean dress.” Cal walked to a door that was clearly joining their rooms. Tate was not only given the Queens chambers; it was directly linked to her King. This was all so much to take in. She locked the door behind him and ran to the bath. She leaned against the wall and tried to process her thoughts. It wasn’t long before a maid came knocking.

Tate welcomed the company and made sure to get to know her maid, Clare while she helped her bath and get dressed. They were in a hurry as Cal was waiting for her rather impatiently. The dress Cal sent for her to wear was not what she was expecting. It had a soft lace corset bodice, no sleaves, with a detached skirt, and the most worthless undergarments she could ever imagine. They were see-through lace, and were basically just strings tied together. Tate couldn’t imagine their use until Clare let out a small giggle.

“What is so funny?” Tate made sure to smile letting Clare no she wasn’t in trouble.

“I’ve have an idea why he sent those, that’s all.” Clare was blushing now and Tate still hadn’t really caught on. “He likes them, probably hoping to see you in them later.” Now both girls were blushing.

“Is that something that is expected of me? I really have no idea what I’m supposed to be doing here.” Tate confessed her ignorance, hoping Clare would have some advice for her.

“I don’t know about expected, but clearly a desired option. He has been turning every girl away from his bed since he met you. There is only so much waiting a man can take.” Clare felt at ease with Tate and probably shared more than she should have, but Tate was grateful for her candor.

“Well, he might just have to wait a bit longer, I don’t have a clue how to please him, especially in bed.” Tate was putting on the strings, and felt surprisingly pretty in them. The whole ensemble was unlike any other she had ever worn. It was light, soft, and dare she admit, sexy. She hoped he liked her in it.

“I wouldn’t worry about that miss… we all start somewhere.” Clare hurried to finish getting Tate dressed after that. There was much to see, and much to talk about with her King.

Cal was waiting outside her door when Tate emerged. “Wow…” He took a moment to stare at the beauty in front of him. He knew she was special at first sight, but now she seemed to sparkle like the Queen, he wanted her to be. “I don’t think I even have words for how beautiful you look in that dress.” He spun her in a small circle to get the full view. Tate felt as if she could fly away in that spin, and hoped he might fly away with her again sometime.

“Thank you, my King…” She caught herself, not knowing what name she should use.

“You may call me whatever name you like, as long as you still call me.” He had that sultry smirk on his lips that gave her shivers everywhere. “Shall I finish giving you your tour? I had Jack show your parenst around and they are getting ready for dinner as we speak.”

“I’d be delighted, Cal.” She grabbed his hand and laced their fingers together, hoping her bold move was acceptable. Affection was always freely shown in her home, and she didn’t want to feel stifled here in this new life. Cal was more than willing to show her all the love she could take. He kissed her hand, then let it drop while wrapping his whole arm around her shoulders while they went on their way.

The couple thoroughly enjoyed their time together and found their instant connection was still alive and well. Tate easily kept Cal on his toes. Her feisty defiance of his casual orders, had his heart racing and mind craving her even more. Tate had already fallen for his charm and physique, but it was his genuine desire to be a good king and help his people that had her weak at the knees. The conversation was so wonderful they almost completely missed the dinner being held in her honor.

Arriving fashionably late, the table was already a buzz with gossip of the Kings betrothed. At the first sight of their King, everyone rose and was respectfully silent. At least 100 guests filled the long hall, and it was all fit for royalty. Drinks had been poured, but no one was allowed to eat until the king decreed. Tate was blown away by the sheer enormity of the room and the elaborate etiquette everyone was adhering to. She saw her parents tucked away in a corner, enjoying their own drinks and banter with Sonja and a few others she didn’t recognize.

Tate followed Cal’s led to the head of the table. A chair, or rather small throne was at the very head, and a similar chair sat just to the right of it for her. To the kings left was a smaller older gentleman whose eyes were a similar shade of blue as Cal’s. His face was not nearly as handsome, and his eyes reflected his rather cold personality as he glared openly at Tate as they took their places. She noticed his response and decided ignoring him would be in her best interest.

“Welcome guests, I’d like to introduce you to the woman who I have chosen as my future Queen. This is Tate, she comes from a village near one of our borders and I expect you to treat her as you would any royal. We are planning on getting married on her 19th birthday in just a few short weeks, I expect you all to be there and to help your Queen get used to the Capital. Please be seated and enjoy your meals.” Everyone took their seats at the Kings request, but Tate was no longer standing. In all of the excitement of the Kings speech, he didn’t notice that she seemed to have passed out. Apparently, no one told her they would be getting married so soon.

Waking up in Cal’s arms was like a dream come true, realizing she had just embarrassed herself on her first official introduction had Tate reeling inside. It didn’t take her long to decide she needed a do-over. After kissing Cal quickly, letting him know she was alright, she took her mind back to the speech he just gave, and just like magic, time reversed.

It was only about a 10-minute gap, so she wasn’t even tired from the effort. Everything flowed seamlessly and when Cal announced their wedding, she was ready. She climbed his arm in front of everyone giving him a very public kiss. It was almost as if she was staking her claim. After all, it was likely many of the women present had their eyes on him at one point in time, and she wanted everyone to know that the King, was hers.

After dinner, there was the usual introductions and chit chat. Everyone wanted to talk to the future Queen. Tate found the conversations easy, and her demeanor enchanted the crowd. Cal was so impressed by his future Queen; it was almost as if she was born for this roll. Towards the end of the evening, an elderly man with long white hair and striking green eyes came up to introduce himself.

“Good evening my Queen, I am Alton the royal wizard, and I am at your service.” He bowed deeply showing his respect for the couple.

“How wonderful to meet you Alton, and I am not your Queen yet, but I do appreciate the sentiment.” Alton was both surprised and keen to see Tate’s charm in action. She reminded him of someone, but he couldn’t be sure.

“My Queen, might I have a private word?” Alton didn’t work much for Calvin, because Barrett didn’t approve, but his father Briggs had trusted him with his life and Calvin had no reason to be weary of him. Cal nodded his head in approval of the conversation, but still kept a watchful eye.

“Sir Alton, how can I help you?” Tate was getting used to her prestige and actually really enjoyed the attention.

“It is not wise to be so cavalier with your… gifts, my Queen.” At that word, the smile on Tate’s face fell, and her heart began beating wildly out of her chest. She knew that there may be those that would notice her magic, but she thought that with proper control she would be safe. “Do not worry, I am not someone to fear, and I think you are safe for tonight. But remember that gifts like yours, are more valuable than even the king’s life.” Alton had feared for the young king for some time now, but Calvin never took him seriously. Cal’s own powers made him feel invincible and an old wizard was of no use to him.

“Sir Alton, I am afraid I do not know what you are talking about.” Pleading ignorance was Tate’s last resort in this conversation. She flicked her long hair over her shoulder and gave out a fake chuckle to pretend everything was just fine. In that moment she unknowingly looked exactly like her mother. Alton would recognize that laugh anywhere, and then he saw her eyes. Deep emeralds gazing straight into his own. While Tate may have had some inner recognition at this, she didn’t know she was looking at her very own grandfather. Alton knew, he knew in an instant that his granddaughter was not stillborn, and she stood right in front of him. He almost laughed at his internal dialogue… of course he had that vision on the night of Calvin’s birth, the most powerful girl every to be born would be his Queen. It made perfect sense, but he still couldn’t believe his eyes.

“I am not wrong my Queen, please consider me an ally. I too am gifted, and I make a pretty good teacher if I do say so myself.” Alton winked at Tate before leading her back to the King. “Remember our conversation, my dearest Queen.” He couldn’t help but add that part in. Losing his daughter felt like the end of his life, but finding that a part of her lived on gave him something to fight for.

“What was that all about?” Cal intimately asked Tate as he wrapped her in his arms and kissed her neck much too visibly.

“Oh, nothing. He was just offering me lessons if I am ever interested.” Deciding to tell the half-truth eased Tate’s conscience. She was never one to hide her lies well. That was maybe and actual skill she should learn.

“Lessons? Interesting, he hasn’t taught since his daughter died. He is a sweet old man, and my father trusted him, but I don’t really buy all that wizard stuff.”

“Really? The demi-god king doesn’t believe in magic?” She scoffed at him in a sultry way. Wrapping her fingers around the collar of his shirt and tugging slightly. The wine was bringing down some of barriers she had placed earlier in the night, and she secretly loved this side of herself.

“Not in the seeing the future sense. My father used to claim Alton was a powerful Seer. He had some vision about one of his own heirs being the most power woman, and controlling the fate of the kingdom. Silly old man, after his daughter died, there was never any hope of another heir for his vision to come true.” Cal chuckled to himself at that. He had no idea that his bride to be also had visions, and that made her even more curious about Alton the Wizard. Tate couldn’t even form a response to this. Luckily, the evening was dying down and Cal had other things on his mind. “If there is no more talk of magic, how about we make our grand exit?”

“Do we really have to announce leaving?” Tate thought that was overkill and she would prefer a quiet escape.

“Of course, not… we can do whatever we want.” Cal’s words were laced with intent, and Tate was almost frantic wanting to know what he really wanted to do.

It took her a moment to ask “…and what does the King want to do?” She was following his lead and pretending to be nonchalant about the whole thing. His gaze turned from playful to serious as he tucked her silver hair behind her ear. He leaned in and licked her exposed breasts, just along the edge of the silky fabric. He followed her chest up to her neck where he began passionately kissing her, stopping briefly to answer her question.

“I want to do you!”