Page 140 of Beast and Remedy
His love is my harbor, and it envelops me as his rich voice echoes a tale I adore so very much.
“There once was a prince, selfish and cruel, cursed to live in his castle along with everyone in it. And one day, a beautiful librarian ventured into his home…”
Summer, The Makers Year 1024
Dear Rosebud,
Knowing you will treasure the texts I gave you as much as I would truly warms my heart. It also warms my heart to see you smile and the nickname growing on you. I hadn’t realized how much I missed our conversations since we sat and spent that entire afternoon discussing and exchanging opinions on books we’ve read. One of my favorites is still about the cursed prince and I agree with that being our favorite. It does set our expectations high for other novels we read.
I also must admit, since you left, I’ve been eager for your return.
Read those books faster so I can see you soon.
Sincerely yours,
Beau
30
Never Once
The sunset reflects off the wide glass windows surrounding the front of Unterkirch’s castle. Layered bricks vary in shades of gray, the darkest hues closest to the roofing and turrets with tall pointed spires. Lavender brushes against the perimeter of the courtyard lined with soldiers.
I brace for another harsh welcome.
“Don’t worry, it’s all for show.” Beau’s lips meet my brow, and I wish the sharpness prodding in my skull would cease.
We come to a full stop when the large doors open, Queen Verena and her daughter, Princess Sybille, leading a group forward to greet us.
I square my shoulders, my surroundings spinning as pain lacerates my head. As I slump forward, a hand catches my forehead.
“Vi,” Leo gasps as Beau tightens his hold.
My vision dims as a light, youthful voice chimes, “Come inside. We have plenty of rooms. We’ll have our healers look over the princess.”
“I’d like to watch over her myself and save your healers the trouble while they’ve done so much already with the infection.”
Beau’s voice is still recognizable through the fog clouding my senses.
“Of course,” a feminine voice replies. “It must be an honor for you to have such a gift from the Makers.”
“Yes, since news of the virus reached me, it felt pertinent to be open about my abilities. I’m glad you received our correspondence about it as well and have graciously welcomed us into your…”
The conversation drifts, continuing without me, and I can’t help but close my eyes.
Warmth envelops me, hugging my entire being, parting briefly when a cooler support cushions the left side of my body.
I lean into the solidity of it, steady and firm, as a sweet essence dances and numbs the pain.
Light twinkles against my closed eyelids, calm and reassuring. It soothes my pinched features, relief washing over me as the searing torment of my skull abates.
My eyes flutter open to Beau’s golden irises, simmering with longing and benevolence. His dimples make an appearance, and my insides turn to mush.
It’s then I take in the large bedchamber. Soft tones of purple, pink, and orange brighten the area surrounded by stone. The sheets, blankets, lounge chairs, and chaise are smothered inpastels, leveling out the darkness drawn in by the wooden table and dressers.
“I knew you’d be alright!” Princess Sybille claps with glee as her mother, Queen Verena, guides her back.
The two women share the same deep olive complexion as well as long, straight raven locks, accentuating their oval facial shape and emphasizing their high cheekbones. Princess Sybille’s brown doe eyes observe me with curiosity, whereas her mother’s silver-gray gaze scans me before addressing me.
