Not All Heroes Are Guiltless

Chapter 57

Chapter 57

Andrew’s POV

When we reached Turmac, we were accosted by their naval patrol. None of them could believe we were Redland captives, but the Queen was able to prove to them, and we were escorted to the Lions' private docks.

We were welcomed into some temporary living where we were fed full meals. The servants seemed to pity us and tried to find us all decent clothing, but they seemed to be limited.

It was after dusk when a messenger came to me and said the Queen was waiting for me. I followed her to a small courtyard and terrace overlooking the city. The Queen stood before me in a beautiful red dress and with the shackles still on her hands because we hadn’t found anyone strong enough to break the enchantment.

“Good, you made it in time. Since I’m limited on my defenses, I hoped you would stand guard for me.” Queen Lana says with a sad smile.

I bow to her, “Anything, my Queen.”

She turns and clasps her hands together as she stares out at night sky. I wanted to ask about what more was expected of me.

“DeLana?” A voice interrupts me. I turn to the speak and see a gorgeous woman with lean muscles. Wearing the customary bright bold colors but different from most ladies, she is covered in gold necklaces and long earrings. Her hair is lifted with delicate gold chains and pin with a tiara. She must be a royal.

“Seltie! It's been so long.” Lana says, embracing the woman. They hold each other for a long time.

“I was so worried when I heard about the attack. How did you escape?” Seltie asks while pulling the queen onto a bench next to a small fountain.

“It seems like the ship we were traveling on crossed paths with the vengeful Bellarn King. He left us all on the ship after murdering all our captors. We didn’t have the supplies to get far, and you were the closest safe port.” The Queen says while a tear falls from her eye. Seltie pulls a small cloth and presses it onto the woman.

“Well, I’m glad you are here now. How much do you know of your homeland?” Seltie says with almost a hesitancy in her voice.

“Nothing. I really hoped you had been the one to rescue my niece.” The queen voice drops.

“I would have if she was near. But let me fill you in on the latest gossip. OH! It will be just like we were kids again. You know that stuffy Roland was murdered in his throne room along with nearly all the elders of the temple. The new King is definitely vengeful. He hasn’t even announced his coronation yet, and he’s already chasing the Hou Ndours to the dark side of the continent. He pushed them so far that all their men and supplies went to protect their retreat. I’m not sure if they even have anyone left in Redland to protect it. Although I’ve been hearing rumors, there is a rebel leader named Ethan, and he’s leading an army to chase the remaining, and he’s been successful since last spring. We’ve been getting his exploits, and I have been trying to convince my husband to send a few of our servants to help but…”

Her voice trails a bit before she sighs deeply, “The exiled prince has made a bit of commotion. He kept us from being able to send anyone out. He’s brought us to our knees, and we are having to ration everything until we can get him to release his stranglehold. My husband is currently with negotiations with him.”

“Are you at risk?” The queen asks her friend while patting her lap.

“No, it’s a bit of a commotion, but I didn’t expect anything less. My mate and I have often suspected the exiled prince was set up, and being his immature and irresponsible self, he left ran away. He looks and acts so differently now. I think this is for the best. He has support from the right people, and more will follow if he is able to finally seek his own justice.” Seltie says softly. “Oh, Lana, I tried my hardest to get us to save you, but…”

“You have your hands full. It's my fault for not being prepared for the potential. I got too comfortable and didn’t see the warning signs.” The queen says softly. “Just you being here makes me feel better.”

“I’ll get my son to help you with these shackles. He’s better at enchantments than I. Then we will get you back to your lands with a good entourage to reclaim your country. Maybe this Ethan is a loyalist?” Seltie asks with a lighthearted smile. The queen shook her head.

“He might be. We had a promising man named Ethan at the academy. I had my eye on him because he was brilliant minded. He’s from a lesser noble family with no affinity, but he was a competent fighter with excellent tactics. I wouldn’t be surprised if they were the same person.” I say, bowing my head.

“Thank you, Andrew. If he was someone you had an eye on, then I’m sure he’s a good man.” The Queen says. “But I really want to find out what happened to my niece. I fear the worst for her.”