Page 62 of Glass and Bone
but he told me some alarming details about his relationship with her. He
informed me they were in love and that it wasyouwho ended her life. I
hope more than anything that is not true and just a delusion from a crazed
man, but he spoke about her with such sorrow. Our relationship has always
been undefined, and for my part in that I am sorry. I only hope you open
up to me about my mother someday.
I also have many questions about the night of her death and the state in
which I was found. Do you know why my memories have gone? Do you know
what really happened to me that day?
My arrival to Noterra was anything but mundane, as I am sure you have
heard. I am unsure if this is of any consequence to you, but I am alright.
Despite every reason I have to be broken, I am strong. I believe that trait
comes from you. I will make it here; I have to believe that.
Elaenor, Queen of Noterra
My hands shake as I fold the letter. The smell of burning wax fills my nose as I press the royal seal into the parchment. With a long sigh, I stand and open the door. There is a guard on either side and one on the other side of the hallway facing me, but Erik, Laris, and Tano are nowhere in sight. I hold out the parchment and wait until one of them takes it.
“Please have Ser Danieas take this to Chatis, to my father.” My voice is calm and unwavering. I receive a nod from the guard across the way as he walks over and takes the parchment from my hands before turning and disappearing down the hallway. I turn to the other two and bow my head slightly. “Please send for Lydia, I would like her assistance in getting ready for bed.”
“Yes, Your Grace.” I turn around and quickly close the door behind me as his footsteps disappear.
*****
The warm water feels like comfort and safety wrapping itself around me in an embrace. I know I must have already bathed in my drunken state, with my hair being damp, but I just needed this. I would spend all of my time in here if I could.
Lydia’s fingers are soft as she brushes oils through the silky black tendrils. She’s quiet as she works, which may be due to the late hour or discomfort. I close my eyes and try to relax as I soak. My mind wanders from Theo to Tobias to the mysterious man who appears randomly. My hands find my flat stomach underneath the water.
“Lydia, how long would it take for the signs of pregnancy to appear?” I ask, my eyes still closed.
“A few weeks, Your Grace.” She whispers as she starts to braid my hair.
“Is there anything I can do, any herb or tincture, that would make conception guaranteed?”
“No, Your Grace.” We sit in silence for a moment before she speaks again. “Do you feel you are pregnant, Your Grace?” I shake my head.
“I feel nothing but hope.” I whisper, meaning more than just pregnancy.
“Then I shall hope as well.” She squeezes my shoulder reassuringly before standing and exiting the room. My eyes wander out the window, focusing on the stars in the sky. They are bright and plentiful, just like glitter. Movement in the darkened corner of the room causes me to jump, splashing water over the edge of the tub. To my surprise, my mysterious gentleman has appeared. I freeze, as my eyes look him up and down, my mouth open in shock. He’s wearing all black, as usual, and his face is filled with worry and pain.
“Elaenor.” He whispers as his eyebrows furrow.
“Who are you?” I whisper back. He takes a step closer, and I sink deeper into the water for protection.
“You are not safe here, Elaenor.” He whispers again. He kneels next to the bath, and I stare at him in disbelief. “You need to go. You need to leave before it’s too late.” His voice is rushed, panicked. His dark hair flops in front of his face, the thickening white streak tucked behind his ear.
“Who are you?” I ask again.
