A Forgotten Realm

Chapter 6 - A Secret Kept

As I looked in the mirror at myself and the simple yet stunning gown Lilly had just brought I smiled. It was certainly much more comfortable and the jade colored fabric with a gold shimmer to it fit me well. Paired with the matching shawl she brought it was rather warm and made me feel a bit more cozy. At least if I’m about to step into a completely unknown conversation I will be able to breathe. As I stepped out of the bathing room Damien was staring at me with what looked like a lustful look but quickly cleared his throat and looked back to the fire.

“Let’s talk, come sit.”

After settling back into the lavish chair beside him separated by just a table neatly stacked with a couple of books and a drink he took a breath and looked at me.

“There is no easy way to tell you any of this but here we go. You have to be careful and I mean to an extreme extent here. I get that you do not know me and I understand you’ve probably heard all the talk of me never leaving this room but there are reasons. My mother didn’t fall ill and pass, her life was taken from her and that is why the veil closed. Someone in cold blood took her life and I’m certain they were after mine as well. It seems someone close to the Royal family or in it is a traitor to the crown and wants the throne so I’ve been here in this room under my own protection magic since she was killed. Nobody can pass my barrier without my consent aside from you being as you are my fated Queen. Whoever is behind this may come for you or try to take you as their own in pursuit of the crown. My father knows and does not visit me to keep up the appearance that we are at odds to keep himself safe as we both navigate this in separate ways. Her murder was covered up in order to keep the palace from falling into chaos and with you coming the veil must remain closed until we find the traitor. I know everyone awaits the day it reopens but as you are able to pass through and only you; executives may be passed through to those in need until we can resolve this. Hopefully soon. It feels close.. very close”

I listened intently and as he explained my mind raced. Fear, anger, and most of all a fire filled determination to help in any way I could. Nobody would be taking me if I could help it and I’d decided I’d look into every dark corner I could to help find this traitor and restore the true nature of realms by lowering the veil.

“I understand and I’m going to help in any way I can.” I said plainly looking into the fire he had been looking at so often.

“I have not told you this in order to gain your help, I told you so that you will keep safe.” Damien spoke standing and looking at me with intense worry.

Standing as well to match his energy I took a step towards him.

“You are right, I am new to this, I do not know you, but I do know that people on both sides need help only I can provide and I will be damned if I’ll let a murderous snake keep me from helping those in need and that includes you. You need help to be free from this glorified prison. Sitting in here for years alone aside from the occasional visits of two people.. it sounds like torture and I will not allow this to continue any longer than it must. I’ve lost everything and I’ll not see it happen to someone else if I can help it and I sure as hell won’t watch as I loose any hope of a new home I can feel safe in. I’m helping and you have no say.” My voice came firm and demanding and Damien’s face looked shocked but yet almost like he was proud.

“A Queen chosen by the gods indeed. You’re as hard headed as my mother was” his head shook as he sat back down in his chair.

“Just remember this is a secret to be kept not shared with a single soul. Trust no one.”

I nodded and for a while we just watched the fire ruffling through our own thoughts of what was to come.

Bring it on whoever you are. I’m done being scared.