The Guardian Queen

Chapter One

Author’s note:

Dear Readers,

I am truly sorry for the delay in releasing the sequel to The Guardian King. Had I foreseen the roadblocks that would arise this past year, I probably wouldn’t have even published the first book when I did. Between health issues, family obligations, and creative setbacks, it’s hard not to think that the universe is against me writing this story. But I am determined to overcome every hurdle life throws at me, not only because writing brings me joy but mainly because you guys deserve it! You have all been so kind and gracious to me throughout this journey; I cannot begin to express my gratitude. If it weren’t for you, I would have already surrendered to the many distractions that have thus far inhibited my progress in this story.

I had soooo wished to begin publishing regularly by the end of this year, but I am so far behind schedule it’s simply not possible. I can, however, release the first chapter as a THANK YOU to all who have encouraged and supported me. Your patience and understanding mean the world to me.

With January’s arrival, I am optimistic that progress will soon pick up momentum. I began writing my first book (A Hand to Hold) in January 2022. It’s a good time of year for writing as the pace of life slows a little in the wake of Christmas. (I completed the first draft of A Hand to Hold in less than 4 months. And if you have read that story, you know how incredibly long it is.)

Barring any new complications, I should be able to take advantage of January’s slower pace of life and give this sequel the attention it deserves. And with a bit of luck, I’ll be able to resume publishing regular chapters of The Guardian Queen by springtime.

Thanks again for your unfailing loyalty, support, and patience. I hope you enjoy chapter one. As always, I welcome all kinds of feedback. And if you like, maybe drop a comment about what you most hope to see happen in the sequel.

I hope you ended your 2024 on a high note, and wishing you a blessed and prosperous 2025!

With love,

E. K.

~~~

Chapter one

~ Ember

*

I’d always been fascinated by out-of-body experiences. Never in my wildest imagination did I envision ever having one of my own. Yet, there was no other way to describe the phenomena that occurred on Spiritus Caeli that early October morning.

*

Regardless of my belief in a positive outcome, I had no idea what to expect when I arrived at the summit and offered myself up for God’s judgment. The extraordinary turn of events shocked me as much as anyone, though my point of view was particularly unique. From the moment I gripped the Hand of God a rightness settled over me. This harmony could only be the work of destiny— the will of the Creator.

*

Imperceptible was the weight of the king’s sword. I held the weapon above my head with no more difficulty than simply raising my arms. My eyes closed of their own accord and a perfect peace eclipsed my surroundings. I failed to notice my feet leave the earth until my soul parted from its body and I, along with a hundred spectators, witnessed a heavenly force flood my physical form, channeled through the sword, raising me into the air. A melodious chorus of voices filled the air, inaudible to all save me. Beyond the veil of life and death, every past guardian queen showered me with blessings, welcoming me into the fold.

*

Amidst the anthem of my ancestors, a single voice stood apart from the rest. Like an anchor to the earthly plain, Phoenix’s call lured me back to where I belonged. As the spiritual energy faded, the sword grew heavy, pulling my arms back toward the ground where it fell from my grasp with a loud clang. Wearily, I scanned my surroundings but the gaping crowd before me came in and out of focus.

*

When I attempted a step forward, the weight of my once vibrant blue, red, and gold gown, turned pure white from the blast of heavenly light, caused me to stumble forward. Gravel bit into my palms as I stared at the ground on my hands and knees, gasping for breath. Two sets of hurried footsteps grew steadily louder. On either side of me, a pair of friendly hands sought to assist me upright, but in an instant their grips recoiled followed by hisses of pain.

*

Before I had time to wonder what drove back my assistance, a new set of footsteps charged forward. My heart swelled with immediate relief as I recognized my companion’s scent as well as his aura. I instinctively reached for him. Without hesitation and in one swift movement, Phoenix hooked my arm around his neck, grabbed ahold of my waist, and set me on my feet.

*

With one arm wrapped tightly around my middle, Phoenix supported all my weight. His free hand cupped my face as his worried eyes met mine, seeking assurance that I was alive and well. His eyes briefly softened with solace before morphing into molten rage. His attention snapped toward our awestruck audience. As I clung to my last shred of strength, Phoenix addressed the crowd with a ferocity unlike anything I’d witnessed from him before. “You asked for God’s judgment and you got it. Never again will you question my queen nor treat her with suspicion and contempt. From this day forward she will rule alongside me as God demands.” I barely had time to take in the sight of crowd, as one by one they dropped to their knees, before Phoenix promptly whisked me away from Spiritus Caeli.

*

Everything from that moment forward was hazy at best as I fought to remain conscious. Passing out would do nothing to calm my companion’s concerns, therefore, I focused my efforts on slipping my fingers through the ends of his wavy shoulder-length hair in a way that soothed us both while he carried me back to Eden’s palace on horseback.

*

After a jostling journey, Phoenix promptly delivered me to the royal clinic for examination, dismissing my assertion that, other than severe exhaustion, there was nothing wrong with me. Far too weary to argue with the king, I submitted to the care of Eden’s finest healers while Phoenix resorted to hovering anxiously in the corner.

*

My caretakers poked and prodded in search of anything remotely amiss with my health. Aside from a slight fever that remained stubbornly unresponsive to their healing efforts, there seemed to be no lasting damage from my ordeal. Despite this, the worry lines around my companion’s eyes remained put. Phoenix would not be easily assured of my well-being. Only time would convince the king I was, in fact, perfectly alright. After the stress of the ritual, in addition to being up all night beforehand, I finally gave into unconsciousness, welcoming the deep and dreamless sleep.

~~~

My blissful rest lasted nearly a full twenty-four uninterrupted hours. Early the following morning, a strange call pulled me out of slumber. As my eyelids fluttered open, the hand-painted mural on the guest room ceiling came into focus. Apart from a few deep breaths, I laid perfectly still, waiting and listening. I heard no voice and sensed no other presence in the room. Still, something tugged at my heart, urging me to follow. I slowly sat upright and swung my legs off the side of the bed, pushing the mountain of blankets aside. Halfway between awareness and entranced, my feet automatically steered me through the door and down the hall.

*

The castle was quiet as were my footsteps thanks to the plush carpet runner lining the long granite corridors. In the dark interior, I passed numerous guest rooms in addition to the library, what appeared to be an artifact gallery, and two parlors. The faint light of dawn ebbed and flowed as I passed by one window after another, following the curious pull within me. The tether was warm and comforting, and bore a striking similarity to my bond with Phoenix, though a bit more subtle. Because of this, I had no trepidation over where I was headed.

*

Finally, I reached an exterior door and the source of the mysterious summons became clear as I peered through the window into the courtyard housing the Tree of Life. With newfound understanding, I emerged from the palace and made my way toward the ancient tree. Crisp morning air kissed my face and I hugged the thin sleeves of my nightgown as I stepped from stone pavement onto luscious green grass. Instantly, the Tree’s life force surged through my bare feet and I breathed in the dawn, admiring the warm glow creeping over the courtyard.

*

I lost all perception of time standing there, transfixed by the Tree’s hold on me. Seconds turned into minutes until I began to perceive the Tree’s attempts to communicate. I stepped closer, stopping just under the protection of the leafy canopy. A light breeze picked up, tussling my unbound reddish-blonde tresses. Movement above caught my attention as a single leaf parted with its branch and fluttered downward. As I held out my hand, it settled lightly onto my palm.

*

My fingers folded gently over the leaf and a jolt of life shot through me. This was the Tree’s only method of communication. Unfortunately, my simple mind failed to comprehend the message. As my eyes ran over the majestic branches, searching for an answer, I suddenly became distracted by the arrival of another presence in the courtyard behind me. I froze momentarily before familiarity hit me and my heart fluttered in response.

*

As Phoenix drew near, our bond overpowered my connection to the Great Tree and my discernment of its life-force diminished. However, its undeciphered message remained safely encased in my left hand.

*

When I felt Phoenix come to a stop directly behind me, I basked in the warmth of his body as it washed over me. His hands gently cradled my elbows and his mouth hovered near my ear as he whispered, “Are you lost, little dove?” I automatically smiled at the memory of our first encounter in Ilia.

“No,” I softly replied. “I am found.”

*

I turned and faced my companion with clear eyes for the first time since the ritual. Phoenix’s hands settled on my hips and his forehead came to rest on mine. We shared a moment of serene silence, soaking up one another’s aura while love filtered through our bond. With a deep breath, he leaned back to look at me and asked, “What are you doing out here, ma chérie? And in your nightgown, no less.” I looked at the Tree and answered, “Communing with nature.” When I looked back at Nic, his head c****d to the side and his golden eyes narrowed in confusion. I shook my head, saying, “Never mind.”

*

Phoenix stroked the unruly hair out of my face and asked, “How’re you feeling this morning?” After brief consideration, I responded, “Changed.”

“You’re not though,” he asserted. “You are the same person you’ve always been— the same woman I fell in love with.”

“With one significant difference,” I rebutted. “I’m no longer hiding from who I am.” He searched my eyes for any lingering signs of uncertainty, then smiled softly and said, “Ember, I…” He shut his mouth with a sigh, clearly unsure of his words, a rare occurrence for the guardian king. I slid my hand around his neck and encouraged, “Tell me.”

“That’s the thing, Em… I can’t. The words don’t exist.”

*

Without shifting his gaze from mine, Phoenix removed my hand from his neck, kissed my knuckles, and engulfed it in his large grasp as he said, “Do you remember, the day you met with the court, when we stood on the veranda and I told you that I didn’t think it was possible for me to be more impressed with you?” I thought back to that day, hardly able to wrap my brain around the fact that only a mere three days had passed since then. “I remember,” I whispered.

“I was wrong, Ember. I… I was so incredibly wrong.”

*

A swell of pride emanated through our bond, making me blush. “After everything you’ve endured since losing your mom,” Phoenix went on, “the grief and loneliness you’ve battled most of your life, the ambivalence of moving to an unfamiliar place, discovering the truth of your heritage, not to mention abilities, and being instantly thrust into the spotlight while juggling training and repeated threats against you. On top of all that, you’ve been subjected to a high profile trial, resulting in an unprecedented smiting. Yet, despite everything, you’ve emerged from the darkness the same brilliant, kind, and genuine creature you’ve always been … you’ve shed so much dead weight in these past few days alone … I am in awe of you.”

*

I swallowed a heap of overwhelming emotion and replied, “Phoenix, do you honestly think I could have done any of that if not for you?” Shaking his head in disagreement, he said, “Do not give me underserved credit, little dove.”

“It is entirely deserved,” I insisted, withdrawing my hand from his grasp to hold his face as I went on. “You are the one who taught me the value of trusting myself.”

“That may be so, but, Ember, yours is a kind of strength I could only dream of.

“Nic, look at my life! Tell me, who do you think I could have learned that from?”

*

A moment of silent understanding passed between us as we stared at one another until Phoenix’s expression morphed into a mixture of intrigue. “What?” I asked.

“Your eyes.”

“What about them?”

“Have you looked in the mirror since returning from Spiritus Caeli?”

“No, why?” With the tip of his middle finger, he grazed my cheekbone just under my eye as he examined its appearance and explained, “After God issued His judgment, anointing you with pure heavenly light, your irises took on a bright golden halo. I expected it to have dissipated by now. It’s thinner perhaps, but still present.”

“A halo, huh? Does this mean—” Smiling broadly, he nodded and answered, “Yes, little dove. You are, and will forever be, my angel.”

“Nic—”

“Shh, mon ange.” He encased my head with both hands and pressed his lips to forehead. “It’s pointless to argue now.”

*

There was something immensely comforting in Phoenix’s chin resting upon the crown of my head, even more so when combined with the vibrations of his masculine tone as he spoke my name. “Ember.”

“Hmm?”

“What was it like?” He didn’t need to clarify. Without budging from his embrace, I summoned the memory of spiritual energy surging throughout my body and quietly replied, “I don’t have the ability to put it into words, but… I imagine it was similar to what you experienced the first time you gripped the king’s sword.” He said nothing, but held me tighter in response, and I knew he understood.

*

“Em.” Phoenix gingerly grasped my arms and peeled me away as he cleared his throat. Suddenly, I tasted a great deal of apprehension combined with something I couldn’t name. Not worry precisely, but perhaps the ghost of it. When understanding hit me, I assured my soulmate for the tenth time, “Nic, I promise, I am alright. Better, actually.”

“I know,” he muttered, managing a slight nod. “On the surface I see no lasting damage—”

“Because there isn’t any.”

“Maybe. But… I may need some extra assurance over the next few days.” I rose onto my tip-toes, threaded my fingers through his velvety dark brown hair, and pulled him into a deep meaningful kiss.

*

Phoenix’s response was instant. His grip on my arms tightened as he leaned into my kiss. We briefly fought for control before surrendering to one another. When our lips parted and his grip relaxed, I whispered, “How’s that for a reminder?”

“It’ll do for now,” he replied, nuzzling my face with the tip of his nose. “Though I may need more later.”

“Of course, chasseur.”

*

I clutched the leaf against my chest and spared one last look at the great tree before Phoenix draped an arm around me and led me back into the warm castle.

*

Without a word along the way, Phoenix escorted me back to my guest room. Halting just outside the door, he said, “I’m going to leave you here.”

“Why? Where are you going?”

“Phyneas is expecting me in the king’s study. And I suspect your aunt would rather speak with you in private.”

“Aunt Beth is here?” After a sharp nod, he gestured toward my bedroom door and answered, “She’s waiting for you inside.”

*

I hadn’t had an opportunity to talk to Aunt Beth in person since before the trial. I dreaded facing her, unsure of what her reaction would be. Unsurprisingly, my companion sensed my reservations. Phoenix lifted my chin as he said, “Listen to me, Ember. What happened on Spiritus Caeli was as indisputable as it was miraculous. No one who witnessed that event can deny the truth in its meaning. The knowledge that you are the first God appointed queen in a millennia will soon be widespread and life as we know it will change. If there’s one piece of advice I can offer, as someone who’s ruled for a decade, it’s that during times of uncertainty nothing is more vital than the support of those who truly love us. For you, Beth is one of those people.” Without waiting for a reply, he softly kissed my cheek and retreated down the corridor.

*

I stared at the door, bracing myself for an undoubtedly emotional conversation. When at last I’d plucked up enough courage to turn the gold filigree knob, I stepped inside my suite, greeted by Aunt Beth’s signature scent of baked goods. I found her standing at the enormous windows as she faced me and smiled. Her feelings hit me like a flood and suddenly it felt as close to seeing my mom again as was possible. While fear and concern were still present, above all I detected pride, joy, and love. She moved toward me with open arms, and reflexively I ran into them.

*

Aunt Beth stroked my hair, asking, “How are you, sweetheart?” I squeezed her tighter before I let go and assured her, “I’m good, Aunt Beth.” With maternal affection sparkling in her brown eyes, she cupped my face and replied, “Yes, my queen, I believe you are.”

*

We moved to the cozy sitting area in the corner, seated side by side on the settee. I started off the conversation, stating, “To be honest, I didn’t expect to see you so happy after everything that’s happened recently. In fact, I truly thought you’d drag me back to Middlebrook the first chance you got.”

“Oh, that idea did cross my mind.” We both laughed until she tucked a lock of hair behind my ear and continued, “But despite my desire to protect you, even I know better than to stand in the way of destiny.”

*

I watched Aunt Beth wipe away a stray tear as she said, “You know, your dad would be insanely proud of you.”

“You really think so?” I asked eagerly.

“Without a doubt.” Once her claim truly sunk in, I said, “Since you told me the truth about being a guardian, I’ve struggled to forgive Mom for keeping it from me. I’ve made some progress, but…”

“Something’s holding you back?”

“Yes,” I nodded. “And I think it stems from how little she told me about my dad.”

“I share your struggle, sweetheart. She was my truest friend but he was my brother. Regardless of her reasons, you deserved to know about him.”

*

We sat in wistful silence for a few moments until Aunt Beth took my hand and said, “Ember, I’m sure I only know half of what you’ve endured since learning the truth, but you should know that your perseverance in the face of great adversity is a trait you most definitely inherited from Jonas.” I bit my lip in an attempt to keep my emotions in check and whispered, “Thank you, Aunt Beth. That… that means the world to me.” She welcomed my hug, holding me tightly in return.

*

“Forgive me, Ember,” she began as she released me and cleared her throat, “but I love you as though you were my own daughter. Therefore, I have to ask… is this the path you truly want? It’s certainly not an easy one.”

“What I want is to stop running or hiding from who I am. I can’t predict what the future holds, but I know in my bones— this is who I am.” She smiled softly, nodded with genuine acceptance, and replied, “In that case, you have my full support.”

*

Before I could express my immense relief and gratitude, two sharp knocks interrupted as my cousin charged into the room. Clad in her trademark style, long embroidered tunic in a dark shade of aubergine paired with tights, belt, and matching high-heal boots, Gemma’s greenish-brown eyes fixed on me. I’d never seen my loquacious cousin at a loss for words before. The sight of her standing there with so much emotion lodged in her throat prompted me to stand and meet her in the middle of the room.

*

Eye to eye with Gemma, I announced, “I’m fine, Gem. I promise.”

“Of course you are,” she replied with a shrug. “I knew you would be all along.” I raised a skeptical brow and her impassive expression vanished as she let out a harsh sigh just before encasing me in a fierce hug.

“Oomph,” I expressed when a smidge of her strength ability slipped through her control.

“Gemma, sweetheart,” Aunt Beth spoke as she came toward us. “You’re suffocating her.” In an instant, Gemma’s arms fell away and my lungs were once again able to fully expand.

*

“Sorry, Em,” Gemma said, smoothing out the sleeves of my crumpled nightgown. “Maybe I was a little worried.”

“You’re certainly not alone in that,” Aunt Beth responded. “Imagine having to sit at home, waiting for news.”

“I still don’t understand why civilians aren’t permitted on Spiritus Caeli,” I said. “At the very least, the subject’s family should be allowed to attend.”

“Entrance into Eden is highly regulated,” Gemma reminded me. “The holy summit even more so, being sacred ground. Even the number of reporters is restricted and cameras strictly prohibited.”

“Perhaps the rules of smiting rituals will be the first thing I change once I am officially queen.”

“I think that is an excellent place to start.”

*

“As much I would love to discuss dissolving our most antiquated laws, it’ll have to wait. I”m not only here because I wanted to see you. I came to let you know… you have guests.

“Guests?” I questioned curiously. She cleared her throat her voice shifted into her official tone as she said, “The Craddocks are requesting an audience with the royal companion.”

“Who?”

“Your other family.”

“Your mother’s father and his parents, if I’m correct,” Aunt Beth explained.

“It’s just Ulysses and Adora,” Gemma clarified. “They’re waiting in the main parlor on the first floor. But Clayborne isn’t with them.”

*

“Why do they want to see me? And why now?” I questioned in surprise. In truth, I hadn’t spared my mother’s family another thought since seeing them seated on the second row of my trail. In my defense, I had good reason. Yet, now that the dust was beginning to settle, the numerous questions I’d put on hold demanded to be answered— like, did I want a relationship my extended family? Or, just as important, did they care to know me?

*

“There’s only one way to know for certain,” Gemma answered optimistically. “They probably just want to meet you.”

“I’m afraid it might not be that simple,” Aunt Beth spoke with reservation written all over her face.

“Why do you say that?” I wanted to know.

“I don’t want to say anything that might influence you.”

“Aunt Beth, I need you to be honest with me.” After a moments hesitation, she answered, “All I can tell you for certain is that they never respected nor supported Lisa and Jonas’ relationship.” When I looked at her questioningly she added with a sigh, “They forbade their marriage.” My eyes widened and I muttered, “I see.”

*

Gemma looked to Beth and asked, “What do you suspect their true intentions are in meeting with Ember?” Shrugging, she replied, “Maybe nothing… but I do think the timing is curious.” She took my hand and added, “Their intentions may be entirely pure. All I’m saying is be careful. They may try to manipulate you.”

“I’m not sure how much sway a few strangers could have over me.”

“Never underestimate the pull of blood ties,” Gemma cautioned. “They run deeper than you think.”

“Then perhaps I should bring along someone I also share a blood tie with. Someone who’s already earned my trust.” I locked eyes with my aunt as I added, “Someone who thinks like my mom.” Understanding my meaning, Aunt Beth smiled softly and said, “I’d be honored to be by your side.”

“Uh…” Gem interjected, gesturing to my attire, “you might want to get dressed first.”

*

After rifling through my overnight bag for a change of clothes, I headed into the bathroom. I shed my nightgown and did a quick rinse off in the shower under hot water to really wake myself up. Minutes later, I was dried and dressed in a pair of royal-blue slacks and a white floral blouse. Grabbing my make up bag, I moved toward the vanity for the finishing touches.

*

When I set eyes on my reflection in the ornate mirror, I froze. It was me, yet it wasn’t. At least, not how I’d ever seen myself before. Since embracing destiny, my aura itself had undergone a complete metamorphosis. I moved closer to the mirror for a proper examination. The reflection revealed no significant differences in my features. I looked the same in all aspects apart from my irises. Just as Phoenix had claimed, they now bore a thin golden halo, and I understood why he’d been transfixed by the subtle detail— the only remaining evidence of my anointment as guardian queen.

*

I touched the cool glass as comprehension fully sunk in. I was seeing myself, my true self, for the very first time. A solitary tear slipped down my cheek upon the realization that Phoenix had always seen this person in me. He’d taken great pains in letting me find myself on my own. Always patient, never pushing. I let my eyelids fall closed and felt the tear land on the back of my hand. With that, my journey to acceptance was complete.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~