{"id":1045,"date":"2024-08-25T23:07:49","date_gmt":"2024-08-25T23:07:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/meekobuggy.com\/?page_id=1045"},"modified":"2024-08-25T23:12:46","modified_gmt":"2024-08-25T23:12:46","slug":"chapter-03","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/meekobuggy.com\/?page_id=1045","title":{"rendered":"Chapter 03"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Chapter 03 <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

With little else to do to prepare, Prince John took a late start in the morning, in order to join Lady Aracely at the breakfast table. The pleasurable meal was unfortunately interceded, possibly by the Fates, when Gabriella ran in from outside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cLady Aracely! Sir Lorne has returned to the village!\u201d she cried out in warning, before finding her. \u201cHowever, he is not seeking you for this visit. He has been asking around for Prince John.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely looked over at John and frowned. \u201cWhy Prince John?\u201d she asked, trying to draw out the inevitable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gabriella shook her head. \u201cI do not know. He simply repeats to anyone that will hear his word that he comes with news from the castle. He insists that the Prince has been here, but no one recalls a royal passage coming through.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cExcuse me,\u201d John sighed as he got up and walked out of the front door, to meet with Lorne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely stood to follow, with a confused and worried Gabriella in tow. \u201cDo you know of what this is?\u201d Gabriella asked her friend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely looked back and nodded nervously. \u201cPlease, Gabriella. You know I would not keep secrets from you if I knew it were for the best, yes?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYes, milady.\u201d Gabriella nodded and then blinked as she saw Sir Lorne get off his horse to kneel in front of Johan. \u201cWhat?\u201d she looked at Aracely in a confused manner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nodding, the woman could not speak as she looked at the men. John appeared to be a cross between angered and concerned. She said nothing and could only watch. When Lorne raised his head, he took notice of Aracely behind Prince John and narrowed his eyes, questioningly. Was this the reason she turned down his requests?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cSire,\u201d he spoke softly, \u201cI have come to bring you home to your father.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI figured,\u201d John replied.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cBut, first, Sir,\u201d Lorne said with a smile on his lips. \u201cMay I say, you look rather dashing.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cLorne, if you come bearing news about my father, this isn\u2019t the time for jokes.\u201d John glared at him. \u201cOr familiarity, despite the fact that I encourage that.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI do not understand, Sire. To what do you speak?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThank you. Now, out with it.\u201d John crossed his arms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lorne nodded, glancing quickly back at Aracely and paling when the village\u2019s herbalist exited his shop in curiosity. \u201cUm, the king has fallen more ill. I was sent by Sir Dex, to bring you back from your quest. Lady Teyla insisted on it, as well.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John thought for a moment, knowing that the trek from the castle to San Franciskus was about six nights, maybe four, if they travelled throughout the night. And he had instructed Teyla to only ask for John\u2019s homecoming if it was absolutely necessary. \u201cVery well. I need a little time, I won\u2019t be leaving alone.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cSire?\u201d Lorne said questioningly, as he rose to his feet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI won\u2019t be leaving alone, Lorne. Take your men and get something to eat and drink from the tavern, and pay them well. I will send for you when I am ready to leave,\u201d John said before walking back to Aracely, ignoring the looks from the other villagers, whom he had gotten to know quite well during his few days there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI do not suppose you wish to announce your truth now?\u201d Aracely asked, trying not to smile at the jaw-dropped Vala and equally-surprised Danyel. Having had been talking to Radell, Halling only grinned his pleasure at the sight he witnessed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cFine…\u201d John muttered and turned around to face the villagers. \u201cMy name is not Johan, I am your Prince John. I am deeply sorry for fooling…\u201d He looked at Aracely and smiled. \u201cTrying to fool everyone. Please, do not change the way you have treated me. I consider you all my friends, and your village will be taken care of once I leave.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The great many of those who congregated were trapped in their surprise. Not one was quite willing to approach the man, now that they knew he was amongst the highest in their land\u2019s nobility. Title does strange things to people, but Aracely was certain that they would push forward, once they were able to grow accustomed to the knowledge of what the man had indeed done for them, and would continue to do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He turned to Aracely and rolled his eyes. \u201cSee? Now they\u2019re afraid of me.\u201d He shook his head.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cDo not worry yourself,\u201d she smiled. \u201cIt is a shock for everyone. Let us prepare, so that we may return once your business is tended to.\u201d Aracely nodded to Gabriella, who looked at John before scurrying back to the home to begin collecting some garments for her travel. \u201cI wonder how she will react when I tell her that she would join us.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI wonder if she\u2019ll ever speak to me again.\u201d John gently put his arm around Aracely\u2019s shoulder as they walked back to her house. \u201cI suppose that the leadership of your village will fall into Halling\u2019s lap when you\u2019re leaving?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She nodded. \u201cIt would. He is wise and will do well by them. As far as Gabriella, she will be fine. Just give her time.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI still have a small amount of gold coins left. I want to leave them for Halling, so he can help the village with that, in the time that you and I can not, to get the trade open with the other villages around you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cBefore we depart, we will be sure that we get them to him. We have a great deal to do now. I imagine that you would be more open to accepting the garments I have?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI still have a set of my own clothes in my satchel.\u201d He smiled. \u201cThe ones I got in to when…-\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She raised an eyebrow. \u201cDo they not require cleaning after that event?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John was silent for a moment and looked like a small, mopey child for a second. \u201cMaybe…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI thought so,\u201d she grinned as she pushed the door open when they reached the house. \u201cGabriella! Pack your garments as well!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cMilady?\u201d Gabriella\u2019s surprised voice sounded from Aracely\u2019s room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI can hardly take Aracely away from you, so you\u2019ll have to come with,\u201d John said. \u201cYou\u2019ll be the one in charge over the servants she\u2019ll receive, once she becomes my bride.\u201d He grinned as he heard Gabriella gasp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Everything that the girl held in her arms went crashing down to the floorboards. \u201cWhat? Bride?\u201d she repeated in confusion. Poking her head out of the room, she saw the two standing at the end of the corridor. \u201cIs this true?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Aracely nodded. \u201cIf – you do not wish to come with, you do not have to. I believe Halling and his family would be more comfortable in this home, don\u2019t you think?\u201d she asked, looking up at John.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI think they will,\u201d John nodded, having seen Halling\u2019s home from the inside. Aracely\u2019s house was safer than Halling\u2019s. He then looked at the girl. \u201cI would be honored if you decide to join us, Gabriella. I can only imagine what shock it will be for Aracely, and it\u2019ll be good to have a trusted confidant at her side.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYou… you would be honored?\u201d Gabriella blinked. \u201cYour highness, forgive me for speaking so openly but you are one unusual man, and I would not leave Lady Aracely, even if you didn\u2019t offer me to come with you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cGood to hear.\u201d John nodded and looked at Aracely. \u201cWhat can I d— right, you want me to change into better attire.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She merely smiled at him innocently. \u201cI said no such thing.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cOkay,\u201d John nodded. \u201cI will change into my own then, and stink up the carriage.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely blinked as she watched him walk into the guest room. \u201cUmm…\u201d she started to say something but could not formulate the words. As Gabriella returned to their packing, she shook her head and stepped forward. At the doorway to his room, she stopped short, to find him having had removed his shirt in mid-dress. Swallowing hard, she turned so that her back was to him. \u201cPlease tell me that you were speaking in jest.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John turned around, finding Aracely standing with her back towards him. \u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d He cocked his head; he had only removed his shirt, and she had seen him shirtless, before, when he worked at the holes!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThat you intend to wear your unclean clothes again?\u201d she answered, still facing the hall. \u201cThere is no reason to continue to hide yourself while everyone knows the truth.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He fumbled his slightly-crumpled outfit out of his bag and looked at it. \u201cIt\u2019s not that bad, look.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI am sure that you believe so,\u201d she said. \u201cIf we are to be of sharing one another, I merely offer the clothing that is not being of use.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAracely, look at me,\u201d John said. \u201cYou\u2019ve seen me with my shirt off, before, so I don\u2019t see why you can\u2019t look at me now.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She could not help but to let out a low chuckle. \u201cThat was outdoors, among others, Sire. This is a bit different. I will go find Gabriella to help her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John couldn\u2019t help but sigh. He walked towards Aracely and stood behind her. \u201cDon\u2019t make me demand it, please. It\u2019s just skin, it\u2019s just my chest.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cOh dear Lord!\u201d Gabriella exclaimed as she excited Aracely\u2019s room. She turned on her heel and headed back into the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cFine!\u201d John said and put on a dirty shirt. \u201cThere.\u201d He handed Aracely his royal garments. \u201cThey don\u2019t look that dirty, I\u2019ve only worn them for maybe a quarter of daylight.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She struggled to hold the clothing to keep it from falling. The wave of air that drifted towards her as he rushed his dirty top on caused her to wrinkle her nose. \u201cI just thought I was helping…\u201d she said looking at him. Why do I want the shirt off again?<\/em> she found herself thinking and blushed at the idea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI wasn\u2019t jesting, Aracely,\u201d he said softly. \u201cBut, if you have better attire for me, then I would gladly take them. This disagreement has taken enough time, as it has.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She had to agree. \u201cI\u2019ll be right back,\u201d she said, glancing back down at his now-covered chest with a blush and left to get some fresh items for him. Returning a few moments later, she set them down on the bed. \u201cIs there anything we can do to help prepare? Gabriella and I have our belongings ready.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cDid you pack personal belongings as well?\u201d John asked, as he yet again stripped off his shirt and got into the clean pair Aracely had laid out for him. Take that,<\/em> he thought mischievously.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Her eyes grew large again and looked down. \u201cUm, yes, yes,\u201d she nodded, unable to glance at him again. \u201cMust you do that?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIn order to change shirts?\u201d John asked. \u201cYes, I must.\u201d He smirked. \u201cHowever, I will wait with changing the pair of trousers.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI thank you for that,\u201d Aracely said quickly. \u201cBut, to change clothing with my being in your presence?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt\u2019s just my…\u201d he sighed. \u201cHad it been the other way around, I would have definitely walked away… at least until we are wedded.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She was not quite ready to hear that. While she was confident with herself, and regardless of the suitors she did receive, Aracely was not experienced in love and romantic relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John looked at Aracely, who looked at him, blankly. \u201cWell… I suppose that\u2019s what married people can do… look at each other\u2019s naked bodies?\u201d He shrugged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d she nodded with a shaking voice. \u201cI – will go say my goodbyes…\u201d She turned and made a very hasty getaway from the room, knowing that she was certainly entering unexplored territory, and it frightened her.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAracely,\u201d he called from the room. \u201cCould you invite Halling over, then?\u201d He closed the door until it was ajar and started to change his trousers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While Aracely did not respond, she had every intention of doing so. Waiting downstairs, Aracely watched for Halling\u2019s arrival. As he came closer, in the bright sun, she could not help but smile with reservations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cLady Aracely,\u201d he greeted after giving her a fatherly hug, \u201cwhat brings you so down?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cJust – my fear of the days to come is all,\u201d she said. \u201cPrince John is upstairs and wishes to speak with you before we leave. However, I wish to share something with you, first. I would truly be honored if you and your family would move into my home. I do not wish to see it go unused and you have been so kind to me all this time.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cMilady, I couldn\u2019t!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely smiled. \u201cYes, you can. If anything – think of it as you are simply boarding here, to maintain its upkeep?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Halling smiled. \u201cIt would be an honor.\u201d He slightly bowed for her. \u201cI gather you have accepted his offer, then? I must say that it was quite humorous when he stopped by, last night. I doubt even he knows what he is doing.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sighing, she looked up at the window, where John stood, watching them. \u201cI do know that I do not know what I<\/em> am doing. Whether I am prepared or even ready to be a wife to a man, let alone the Prince of our land.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI am sure that the both of you will find out.\u201d Halling smiled. \u201cLady Aracely, I am so proud of you,\u201d he said. \u201cYou are going to be an excellent wife to our King-to-be, and should you become homesick, you and the Prince have always a safe haven to come to, once the season is over.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThe season is what I fear for. What if I cannot get extra foods for everyone, in time?\u201d she asked, feeling so small.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cOne of the first words the Prince spoke to me, upon returning with the cart filled with food and medicine, was that there will always be a supply for us. He also said that, no matter if you\u2019d return with him to become his bride, he would take care of our village and send soldiers to defend us in season.\u201d Halling pulled Aracely in his arms. \u201cDo not fear for us, as we will survive, as we always have.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nodding, she returned his affection. \u201cYou will have to come visit me if I am unable to come to you,\u201d she said, struggling to smile and be strong. \u201cPlease, go speak with the Prince. I believe he could use some of your words, as well.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThat boy is hopeless.\u201d Halling rolled his eyes with a smile and headed towards the guest room, finding the door ajar. \u201cYour Highness?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cJohn!\u201d John groaned as he opened the door. \u201cPlease, Halling, do not call me that.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The man chuckled. \u201cOf course, my apologies,\u201d he said. \u201cHow are you fairing?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, I suppose I am nervous.\u201d John fiddled with his bag. \u201cPlease, come in.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Halling entered the sitting room that the prince had been watching down over Aracely from. Taking a seat, he looked up at John. \u201cYou are aware that, while she is a strong woman, she is terrified, right now?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYes! I know!\u201d John sighed as he sat down in the chair opposite Halling. \u201cAnd part of me feels bad about taking her away from everything she knows… I really…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Halling continued to smile at him. \u201cI do not think you truly understand what I meant. She knows what she is doing and, in that, she is perfectly fine. I know that girl better than she may believe. She has fear that she would not be a good – ahh, satisfying wife… Yes, she has had suitors, but, she turned all away. I do not recall her ever having a romance in the time she had taken over from her parents, in their passing.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAh… oh… that…\u201d John bit his lip. \u201cWell… I do have some experience in that matter, however, taking in account romance, and… these wonderfully frustrating feelings I have for Aracely, makes me wonder if even I am good enough for her… because, frankly, I don\u2019t know what I am doing, at all.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI think you will do well. Just handle her like you would one of your treasures,\u201d he smiled. \u201cThe rest will come.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cMaybe…\u201d John thought for a moment and then smiled. \u201cThank you, Halling. I had wished to talk to you about something different. Aracely told me that, with her leaving the village, the villagers look up to you as their leader.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He nodded. \u201cMyself or Danyel. He has good intuition of people – that is, if he could keep his bride in order,\u201d he sighed. \u201cShe has a big heart and a big mouth.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI find Vala refreshing.\u201d John smiled. \u201cThey are both good people, but this is something I want to entrust you with… Whenever you need something, no matter how small, or big, I want you to send someone from the village to the castle and tell me. I also expect regular information about your village, to see how you\u2019re fairing.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Halling smiled, \u201cI will be certain that we will send word as often as we can. If we did not, you would likely have a very unhappy bride to tend to…ahh, yes. That is something you have not had the pleasure to experience yet…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI am not sure if I want to.\u201d John chuckled. \u201cFortunately, the castle is big enough for me to hide from her, if necessary.\u201d He smirked. \u201cBut! We\u2019re drifting off the subject, here.\u201d John reached for his bag and pulled out his purse, filled with coins. \u201cThere are about thirty gold coins in here. I want you to start up trade between your village and others surrounding you; invest in materials and seeds, rebuild your homes and acquire better defenses, just in case the help arriving from me and Aracely will come late.\u201d He handed his purse to Halling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He hesitated before accepting the gift. \u201cThank you. We will certainly use these fortunes wisely.\u201d Halling would have said more if the sound of horses crying outside had not filtered in. \u201cIt sounds as if they are growing impatient. You should leave soon to see your father, while you have the opportunity. To lose that will stay with you far longer than you would like.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI know, but Aracely and Gabriella had to pack up their belongings and Aracely sort of insisted that I dress more appropriately, now that the secret\u2019s out.\u201d He shook his head. \u201cAlso, I am not sure if Aracely has finished saying her goodbyes, yet.\u201d He peeked out of the window to see Aracely, with her arms around a crying Vala. \u201cOn second thought, I may want to rescue her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cShe is not a fool to the ways of the Noble. Aracely is likely looking to assure that you maintain your standing with the opinions of the other villages that you may pass through on your return home.\u201d He stood to join John at the window and smiled. \u201cAh, yes. If you both are able to part from Miss Vala, you will have the Lady in your hand.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Both he and Halling exited Aracely\u2019s home and John made his way over to her and Vala, while the villagers still didn\u2019t know what to do, now that he wasn\u2019t Johan anymore. \u201cVala? If you don\u2019t mind, I would really want to thank you and Danyel for…—\u201d He couldn\u2019t say another word, as Vala had shifted from Aracely to him, putting her arms around him in some sort of strangle hold; his nearby soldiers looking as if she was about to kill him and ready to jump in to save him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely was actually relieved and started to laugh, with Halling joining in. \u201cDid I not say that they would come around?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cPlease, please, please take good care of our girl, here. And, if you ever hurt her in any way, including having little whores on the side, I will come and find you. She is worth so much more than you can ever imagine!\u201d Vala mumbled in her tight hold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhat kind of man do you take me for?\u201d John managed to say and tried to gently push Vala off of him. \u201cVala, please let go of me, I need air!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She quickly let go with a sheepish look. \u201cMy apologies,\u201d she said, looking much like a small child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cNow, I promise I\u2019ll take good care of her.\u201d He looked at her and smiled. \u201cShould you ever receive word from Aracely that I am not taking care of her, you\u2019re more than welcome to hit me in the head with something.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cSire!\u201d His soldiers gasped in unison.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John waved them away, smiling. \u201cI want to thank you and Danyel for your hospitality, and don\u2019t be afraid to send people to sleep up on that hay loft of yours. It is comfortable.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI will tell Danyel. He is sorry that he could not come to say goodbye, as we received some patrons just a short while ago,\u201d Vala said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely watched quietly with her friend at her side. A part of her did not want to leave, but she was also eager to go on, to see more of the life that she did not care for, before. \u201cWe will have to make sure that you come visit, soon,\u201d she smiled, looking at John for support on her wish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYou are always welcome,\u201d John nodded. \u201cAnd Aracely can come visit you at any time, I\u2019ll just stay home, because I\u2019m the bad guy who\u2019s taking your friend away,\u201d he smiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cOh, you are not taking her from us. Why do you say that? You are giving her something that we cannot give back to her, which is your heart, Love. Why would you think of such things?\u201d Vala questioned, suddenly confused and hurt. She quickly jumped into an onslaught of other comments to build on her clear vision of what was happening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely covered her reddened face with a hand as the Prince\u2019s people looked over at her. \u201cStop her,\u201d she begged quietly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cVala, that\u2019s enough,\u201d John said in a tone of voice normally used to command people, yet there was an undertone of being slightly amused. Had she had done this while his identity was still a secret, it would have been fine, but she was completely out of line now. \u201cYou\u2019re embarrassing Aracely and myself, stop it.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Simmering down, she just pouted as she went over to hug Halling, simply for the need to – hug. \u201cBe well on your journey,\u201d he said to them. \u201cWe will look forward to hearing the news from the castle, in time.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John walked to Aracely and smiled. \u201cAre you done with saying your goodbyes?\u201d he asked softly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She nodded and let out a breath after catching the approving look that Halling gave. \u201cYes,\u201d she said with more confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAnd are you sure you have everything you need?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYes. If we forget something, I am sure we will survive until we can send for it, or replace it,\u201d she said. \u201cAre you prepared for this?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll see.\u201d He chuckled as he directed her towards the carriage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As John helped Aracely and Gabriella into the carriage, the women did not miss the strange and confused looks that his men exchanged. Especially Sir Lorne. Peeking out of the carraige opening, she could see the village\u2019s herbalist watching from his window, but did not know what to do for the men who clearly had an emotional attachment to one another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John saw Aracely looking and smiled. \u201cI could always use a herbalist for my gardens,\u201d he whispered in her ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She looked at him, confused, but smiled. \u201cI do not understand, and I do not think you truly know your men.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cOh I do, which is why I found it so funny that Lorne was trying to pursue you,\u201d John said, musing. \u201cI might have to send Lorne back in a couple of lunar cycles, to go and fetch me your brilliant herbalist… or \u2026 hold on.\u201d John jumped out of the carriage and, immediately, Lorne was beside him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cSire, what are you doing?\u201d he asked, confused. \u201cI thought we were leaving.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cOh, we are leaving all right, you\u2019re staying here.\u201d John said as he looked at Lorne. \u201cI want you to help these people, however you can. There is a station with soldiers, less than a day\u2019s trek, if you need something.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWith all due respect, sire, you can\u2019t do that.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cMaybe I can\u2019t, but I know you want to.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYes sir,\u201d Lorne smiled slightly. \u201cThank you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cHalling is the one in charge here, just keep that in mind. I will have your belongings sent here in a couple of moons.\u201d John got back into the carriage and Lorne closed the door behind him. \u201cNow, we can go.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely and Gabriella had watched and grinned. Reacting on pure happiness and instinct, she leaned over and kissed John on the cheek. \u201cThank you,\u201d she said, before turning back to watch as Lorne went up to Halling, cautiously. Her friend could be quite intimidating when he wanted to be and, eventually, she saw him nod in acceptance. \u201cWe can go, if you wish,\u201d she said, watching as the small group walked off, talking – and their herbalist ran out from his shop just as the carriage began to move away from view.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John had blinked when Aracely had kissed him on the cheek, but liked the sensation of it. After she told him she was ready, he gave the command to their carriage driver and felt the familiar sensation of the equipage as they started to move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John had nodded off during the ride in the familiar carriage, something he had taught himself to do at a young age to avoid getting bored or restless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The ride was a long one for Aracely and Gabriella. While it had been a long while since the Lady did any formal traveling, her friend had never left the village in her life so she was seeing everything for the first time. \u201cOh my,\u201d she would murmur often enough that the bride to be was growing restless and irritated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John only woke up from his light nap after the carriage shook somewhat violently due to some unevenness in the road. \u201cI\u2019m awake!\u201d He quickly said, looking around sheepishly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gabriella was too engrossed with looking at the passing buildings in their current village to have noticed John. Aracely on the other hand was clearly mad at something, to what, he did not know. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d John asked Aracely, worried that she had second thoughts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWaiting for when we finally arrive,\u201d she said as evenly as she could with the occasional glare at their friend. \u201cSo that we could be on solid ground once again.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIf you want them to stop so you can walk around a little, all you have to do is ask.\u201d John chuckled. \u201cWe still have a couple more days to go before we\u2019re at the castle, and I can imagine it is not fun to sit in this thing all day, waiting for our next camp site.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While he spoke, Gabriella let out another murmur of fascination that threatened to send Aracely across the carriage to shove the girl out through the opening. Slowly she dragged her eyes back to John and it was enough to communicate without any words of where a great deal of her discomfort lied.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cGabriella, would you like to have a better view of the outside world?\u201d John gently pat Aracely\u2019s knee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cMay I?\u201d she asked turning back in to look at him. \u201cWhere would I be? Would I be walking? Because I don\u2019t mind…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cOf course you can, there\u2019s still an extra spot for a cabbie on the back of the carriage, just be sure to stay warm and warn us when you want to come back in.\u201d John said warmly. \u201cIf you want to, I will let the driver stop so you can get on the back of the carriage.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gabriella had grown so excited that she could not even speak and Aracely struggled to smile for her until she went to join the other staff outside. \u201cI was ready to throw her out the door about two villages back,\u201d she said with a sigh as she settled back in her seat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYou should have said something, or poked me in the ribs.\u201d John smiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She smiled as she shook her head. \u201cYou were sleeping so peacefully, your Highness. I would not dream of disturbing you,\u201d she replied. And it was true. Much of the time that he slept while she was awake, she could not help but watch him in his slumber and even found it amusing how he sometimes talked to himself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI wasn\u2019t really sleeping, it\u2019s just a way of dealing with the travel.\u201d He then realized something. \u201cAnd that was rude of me, to sleep while you\u2019re awake.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cNo, it was not. You have done a great deal of physical labor so you needed the rest. It\u2019s just…I did not think you spoke in your sleep,\u201d she could not help but tease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI do?\u201d John blinked. \u201cI hope I didn\u2019t say anything embarrassing.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She could only give him a cheeky smile. \u201cNothing – embarrassing.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cRight…\u201d He eyed her suspiciously with a hint of amusement in his eyes. \u201cYou should relax some, it\u2019ll make the trip easier on you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sighing, she looked at him. \u201cI will rest soon. For now I simply wish to enjoy the peace.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John looked out of the carriage and wished that there was a way to travel faster. Despite the things he had learned about his father in the past couple of days, he was genuinely concerned about him, maybe he wasn\u2019t ready to be left alone, so soon after his mother\u2019s passing. John would be too angry with his father for letting villages such as San Franciskus fend for themselves, and his father would be too weak to explain himself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely watched him as he appeared to be lost in his thoughts. The tension in his face made her feel as if he had been battling some sort of conflict in his mind and she prayed it was not her that caused that. \u201cIs there something that I could do for you?\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John certainly would not care if his father wouldn\u2019t like Aracely. John didn\u2019t like Chaya, and Aracely was truly his own choice. \u201cHuh?\u201d John looked at his bride to be and smiled. \u201cI was thinking about my father. And how there must be a way to travel faster.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhat other method of travel is faster than horses?\u201d she asked. \u201cYou left to return home the same day your received his word. Should that not matter?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI know that there\u2019s no other method of traveling faster, at least not in our life time.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She looked surprised. \u201cYou give more credit to the madmen of our time than even I do.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cA next generation of madmen will take care of faster travel, our current madmen are truly mad.\u201d John chuckled. \u201cThe explosive powder is dangerous, and they created it!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cFrom something that has been here before our births,\u201d Aracely pointed out. \u201cOf course if the Prince is unhappy with the method of travel, the other option is to stroll.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYes, then we know for sure my Father has passed if we ever arrive at the castle.\u201d John rolled his eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She frowned and turned back to the window. \u201cMy apologies.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cFor what?\u201d John frowned. \u201cWhy are you apologizing?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI was speaking out of place. It will not happen again,\u201d she answered still finding herself unable to look back at him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She\u2019s so frustrating!<\/em> he thought and sighed. He decided not to even try, again, to tell her that she was free to do or say as she wished. John started to look at her and he would not move his eyes away from her until she\u2019d look back at him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely took the moment of quietness to let her head rest against the side of the carriage and close her eyes. A part of her struggled to remain as so, feeling the sensation of his eyes on her but she could not. As much of the freedom that Prince John continued to say that she would have around him, there was only so much even she would allow. If the man was to keep his men to follow him as they did, even for as modern as his view of women were, John would lose a great deal of power through his desire simply for her to speak her mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After a long time of staring at her, John noticed Aracely had fallen asleep, which was a good thing for her to do. He slowly got to his feet, making sure he was steady and took a blanket from the overhead basket. He then gently covered her up to make sure she\u2019d stay warm, softly brushing her cheek with the back of his hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She looked beautiful, and really resting. John knew that she\u2019d probably have him for breakfast, but he couldn\u2019t help but taking place next to her so that he could have a better look. He wasn\u2019t a novice when dealing with women, there had been a few servants and whores when he felt the need, but he had never felt anything as the way he was feeling now – inadequate. Had his fleeting conquests been nothing but convenient, and only doing their work, he felt as if Aracely was as fragile as ceramics, and she needed to be protected, and cared for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Feeling so comfortably warm, despite the situation, Aracely curled herself up more under the cover as she shifted in her seat. In the process, she turned to the opposite side, where her body felt the source of additional heat and her head fell to the prince\u2019s shoulder. Humming in her slumber, she returned to her rest with a small peaceful smile on her lips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John smiled and instinctively put his arm around her as he continued to look out of the window to see the land pass them by.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was some time that passed before she slowly began to arise. Aracely did not wish to move for she found herself incredibly comfortable and warm. She could recall that the air was chilling with the coming of night fall so she was unsure for the source of the incredible warmth. Blinking her eyes open, she first saw the blanket tucked around her, but something more – solid. Her eyes flickered around, above the edge of the cover to find, her being wrapped by the Prince himself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She remained silent as she tried to think of what to do. The Lady had never allowed herself to fall into a situation such as this and the most she did allow a man to do was for Halling to hug her as he became a great deal of a parental figure to her in the years past.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She bit on her lip as she tried to extract herself from John\u2019s arm but in doing that, the carriage happened to roll over a large piece of earth, sending it into a heavy rocking motion, thus waking the too sleeping man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI\u2019m awake…\u201d John muttered sleepily as he opened his eyes. Blinking, he looked down at Aracely, who looked at him with fear in her eyes. \u201cHello.\u201d He smiled widely. \u201cDid you sleep well?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tucking her hair behind her ear, she swallowed hard. \u201cUm, yes, yes. I slept well. My apologies for waking you. It seems that um, somehow, you and I…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t wake me, that was the road.\u201d John said, \u201cAnd I know,\u201d he nodded. \u201cYou propped yourself up against me in your sleep. It\u2019s good to know that I am a comfortable pillow.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI believe it would be more of a warm one,\u201d she corrected with a blush. \u201cI hope that I did not cause you discomfort.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be ridiculous.\u201d John said, \u201cYou should never apologize for being comfortable in your rest, I am sure you fell asleep against Halling or Danyel once or twice during festivities, you didn\u2019t apologize to them either, did you?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cPerhaps, but they were too under different circumstances. And certainly not when alone, with the Prince.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cNo, you\u2019re alone with John, not the Prince.\u201d John insisted. \u201cWhen we are alone together, I want you to treat me not different from when you didn\u2019t know who I was. I am John, nothing special about one name, is there?\u201d He smiled. \u201cMy home, is your home, just like you opened your home to me.\u201d He then pointed at his arm. \u201cMy arm, is your arm.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She raised here eyebrows uncertain. \u201cIf – you insist,\u201d she answered slowly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt\u2019s just a title, a sign that I am well off. It\u2019s not who I am.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt is still – difficult. Surely you understand the changes that I have agreed to go through,\u201d she replied, pulling her legs up under her almost as if to make herself small.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI do, and I understand you\u2019re afraid, but you are not alone. I\u2019m terrified that I\u2019m going to do something wrong and you\u2019ll end up hating me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely looked up at him with questioning eyes. \u201cWhy would I hate you? It is not my place to do so. If you truly wish for my honesty, then my fears truly fall more with your people that serve you. Would they accept me as your chosen companion or as the outsider that was not of the king\u2019s choosing. You – have – kept your word thus far since we have met, and I do appreciate all that you have done for San Franciskus even if you are unable to do more once your ascension to the throne is complete.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI am a man of my word; it may take some time but I will make things better for your people, your friends, and help other villages in trouble along with them.\u201d John shifted a little so he could really look at her and smiled. \u201cAnd why would my people not accept you? My people, as the Royal court, have to accept you because you, and you alone, will be my life long companion. Apart from that, you\u2019re the one <b>I<\/b> want, they\u2019d better accept you or I\u2019ll replace the entire Royal court with your people.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She nodded in acceptance and smiled. \u201cHow much further do we have to travel? I feel as if we have been gone much longer than we truly have.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAbout a day\u2019s worth of travel, we may stop soon so we can have some nourishment for the night.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely smiled before pulling the blanket up around her more. It was rather dark by then but the sun could not have been down for long. The shade from the trees over the group made it feel later, and certainly more cool than it might have been closer to the villages. \u201cDo you think it would not be more efficient for us to simply continue through the night, allowing them to rest in turn?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAren\u2019t you hungry?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI am fine but if the others wish to break, then we should stop for a short while.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYou\u2019re right, if we don\u2019t stop for this last night, then we\u2019re at the castle faster.\u201d He responded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She looked at him and smiled softly. \u201cIt is up to you. I think in this situation they will understand your desire to see your father in his present state. Regardless of my opinion of him, I do wish for you to be able to spend what precious time you have available to you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

*************<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During the night, Aracely had fallen asleep again, but he could not help but softly wake her as he saw the familiar landscape that told him they were nearing the castle gates. John gently rubbed her arm. \u201cAracely, we\u2019re nearly there.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The girl lifted her head and looked around through sleepy eyes. She did not recall succumbing to her tiredness and certainly not falling to it against John again. Rubbing her eyes, she looked at him and around as if trying to piece the environment and situation together in her confusion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He chuckled, Aracely looked adorable in her confusion. \u201cWe\u2019re nearly at the gates, milady. You\u2019re still stuck with me in this carriage until then.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt is not all of an unpleasant experience,\u201d she replied as she sat up to collect herself and attempt to at least feel a little more presentable by smoothing out her dress and hair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cDo you see that stray rock formation?\u201d John pointed towards a few rocks in the distance. \u201cI used to sneak out of the castle as a little boy to find some peace and quiet and time alone and that was my special place to go. Of course, once Teyla knew where I was when I was lost again, I was usually brought back to the castle within a quarter of a day.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She leaned forward to peer out to where he pointed. The area appeared to be a rather comforting area. Looking back to him, \u201cWho is this Teyla?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cTeyla is the head of house. She directs all servants at this moment.\u201d John answered. \u201cShe\u2019s also been my teacher and my caretaker, especially after my mother passed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nodding, Aracely sat back in her seat. She said nothing on how close they were with one another, or how they came to be that way. She vividly recalled that she had been on the opposite side then waking to find him next to her…and neither moved from there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the carriage grew closer to the castle, she anxiety of the situation was slowly becoming more apparent. Her hands continuously played with the fabric of her dress and her eyes fixated themselves on the door and anyone that came near the carriage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAracely, please do not forget to breathe.\u201d John said calmly, knowing full well that she was nervous. \u201cYou have nothing to be nervous about, once we\u2019re inside the castle walls, there may be a lot of people, but I am right here with you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She nodded and tried to do as he asked by taking a breath but she still found a great deal of difficulty. It was not more than several minutes before the carriage finally came to a halt and a balding man came to open the door for the Prince.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cHow nice of you to return home your Highness,\u201d the clearly unhappy person spoke. \u201cPrincess Chaya has been sitting with your father since she had arrived two moons ago.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cEasy George.\u201d John warned as he stepped out of the carriage and held his hand out for Aracely to help her out of the carriage. \u201cI came as soon as I heard.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The man nodded before turning his eyes on the woman with the Prince. \u201cWho is this? You do know that your father has had Miss Teyla making arrangements for your marriage to Princess Chaya during your absence?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John smiled widely. \u201cGood to hear! This is Lady Aracely of San Franciskus, my bride to be.\u201d He replied, \u201cI will tell Princess Chaya that she is no longer needed, myself.\u201d He smiled at Aracely. \u201cThis is Sir Hammond, my Father\u2019s faithful advisor for everything not related to warfare.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She nodded with a smile and gave him a small curtsy as expected from someone with status in the kingdom. \u201cPleasure to meet you, Sir,\u201d she said but stayed close to John by sheer instinct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

George let out a breath and nodded to her. \u201cYour Highness, you understand the predicament that you have put us all in now with Proculus?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI am sure that the King and Queen of Proculus understand that I\u2019d rather wed someone with my entire being than with just my presence.\u201d John replied. \u201cNow, please excuse us, we<\/em> are going to visit my Father before we settle in.\u201d He looked over his shoulder to Gabriella, who was standing behind them. \u201cGabriella, if you\u2019d wish to follow us, I will introduce you to Teyla, who will tell you all you need to know.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gabriella nodded and scurried past the larger and greatly intimidating man. \u201cOh dear,\u201d he sighed as he watched the Prince and his new friends walk away. \u201cThis is not going to go well,\u201d he murmured as he went off another way so that he could go inform the King and Queen that their daughter would not be married during this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWell, that went well.\u201d John let out a sigh of relief as they walked into the castle walls. \u201cDon\u2019t worry so much about George\u2019s behavior, he is very old fashioned.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cDo you think that Princess Chaya will be a problem?\u201d Aracely asked as she walked with John, carefully ignoring the looks she was receiving from the staff that they passed by. \u201cFor her to be sitting with your father as that man had said, I believe that she may already strongly believe that she is already your wife.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cProblem is the word that comes with Chaya, isn\u2019t it?\u201d John frowned. \u201cI am sure she will not go quietly, and if Father is still conscious and alert he might scold me for succeeding in my quest and probably starting a trading stop or a war between Atlantica and Proculus, but part of me thinks that she is just taking advantage of the situation, thinking that if I hear of her vigil at Father\u2019s bedside that I will change my mind.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nodding at his words, it was clearly plausible from what she did know of the princess. Aracely could not help but worry about what was about to happen the closer they grew to the King\u2019s bed chambers. Never before had she ever thought she would find herself in this position, let alone inside these walls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sitting outside of the King\u2019s doors, Teyla was speaking with Sir Dex who had come to inform her of the Prince\u2019s return just then. Hearing their echo of their steps, she turned to find her friend with two women, neither of which she knew. \u201cPrince John. The timing of your return could not be any better. I fear that the King has only one, perhaps two nights left. He has grown so much weaker,\u201d she said in greeting, glancing the women over but said nothing of them as the young man was known to bring home strays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI came as soon as I heard, Teyla.\u201d John replied, and looked at Ronon. \u201cYour best man, Lorne, is staying behind in San Franciskus. Don\u2019t worry, I\u2019ll tell you why later.\u201d John said to him and then smiled at Teyla. \u201cTeyla, meet Lady Aracely, my bride to be, and her personal servant, Gabriella.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She looked from the woman who was clearly nervous and back up at John. \u201cHave you gone mad on your journey? To bring someone back in such a time. You knew very well that your father would have Princess Chaya come for you. He has made me prepare your nuptials for the day after your return. He and everyone else in the court are prepared to see you wed the Princess tomorrow at high sun!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cTeyla, you of all people should know that Chaya isn\u2019t the right one for me.\u201d John said and then smiled at Aracely. \u201cLady Aracely stole my heart, I was overjoyed when she decided to return with me, as I do not think I can fill my father\u2019s footsteps without my heart.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cOh God help us all.\u201d Teyla threw her hands up in despair and sighed. \u201cI am happy for you John, Lady Aracely, but it is highly inappropriate.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John thought for a second and then let out a big burp. \u201cNo, that is.\u201d He nodded and smiled, looking at a wide eyed Teyla, Aracely and Gabriella was hiding a giggle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cJohn, please go see to your father. I – I have to figure out how to fix this. My apologies Lady but he was very well aware of what would happen during his absence,\u201d she apologized before giving John one last disapproving look and hurrying off. Sir Dex had stayed back and was simply amused but all that he observed, grinning at his friend\u2019s new ladies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI did not!\u201d John responded to Teyla\u2019s back and sighed. \u201cRonon, could you please take Gabriella to Teyla to help her settle in? Apparently I have a mess to clean up.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt\u2019s your mess, Prince John.\u201d Ronon grinned as he walked away with Gabriella.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John looked at Aracely. \u201cThey – They – knew, that if \u2026 no, never mind… I\u2019m sorry for how they\u2019re treating you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Surprisingly, she was smiling. \u201cI am actually amused. While it is nothing less than I expected for myself, the fact that they are comfortable enough to scold you as they have is really very endearing. You cannot blame them for making arrangements for the possibility if you have not found a mate.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYes, they all thought I would fail and I would have. We should knight my horse when she gets returned, she thought it was okay to lose a shoe near your village.\u201d John gently brushed her arm with the back of his hand, looking down to his feet. \u201cAre you okay?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Taking a deep breath, Aracely was shockingly calm now. \u201cYes, I find that I am. You should see your father now. I can wait here for you,\u201d she smiled reaching out to cover his hand with hers in support. Her heart thumped an extra beat at the simple gesture. Looking up in his eyes she nodded her assurance. \u201cGo, your Highness.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He couldn\u2019t help but gently bring her hand to his mouth and kissed it. \u201cWhen you hear yelling, come rescue me.\u201d John said and got into his father\u2019s chambers. He was surprised to find so many people in his Father\u2019s chambers, it was ridiculous. The man was sick and dying, what did they want from him?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI\u2019d like to have a moment – alone – with my Father.\u201d John said loud enough to get everyone\u2019s attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Every person but one was quick to leave the room. A young woman alone had remained behind sat quietly at the old man\u2019s bedside. \u201cYou have finally chosen to return,\u201d she commented. \u201cHis Highness is resting now but will be pleased to be able to observe our wedding tomorrow before his passing.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cHello Chaya.\u201d John greeted her. \u201cAlways a pleasure to see you.\u201d He said and looked at his Father. He looked as if he was on his last legs and couldn\u2019t help but swallow back some tears. \u201cI want to thank you for coming, and staying with my Father in my absence, but I am sure that you\u2019ve heard about my journey.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Her eyes coolly left the dying man to her betrothed. \u201cNow that you have returned from such a fools adventure, we will wed tomorrow and our lands will combine to the wishes of your father.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI don\u2019t understand why everyone assumes I have failed.\u201d John said as he sat down in a chair next to his father\u2019s bed. \u201cBecause I have not.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhether you have found a woman of status is not in question. You know very well how our kind have lived in history. You simply cannot choose and wed any scavenger that you may wish. It is about maintaining our bloodline and assuring that it remains pure,\u201d Chaya replied. \u201cYou are more than welcome to have your women for your pleasure but in the end it still will be you and I before the alter.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John chuckled. \u201cHow can our bloodline remain pure when all we do is wed our cousins?\u201d He started, \u201cOh yes, Chaya, you\u2019re my cousin, a few times removed on both our Mothers side. I have asked the librarian to check that for me. Secondly, I have no interest in you, I never had and I never will. It is time that the rules are getting bend into a modern version with the same thought behind them.\u201d He got up and directed her away from his Father. \u201cI will not wed you.\u201d He looked her in the eyes. \u201cAnd my bride to be is not a scavenger, you better bite your tongue when you meet her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYou have lost your mind,\u201d she hissed as her eyes narrowed. \u201cWhether we are cousins or not, our mothers and fathers have chosen this for us. It has worked for long before our births and will be so long after our deaths.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cNo, I don\u2019t think so.\u201d John shrugged. \u201cBy all means, get into your wedding gown tomorrow, but I will not be joining you at the altar, my Father gave me his blessings to find a woman I wanted to marry, and I have, and she is not you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAnd what peasant have you brought back to please the King?\u201d she asked in a louder voice, perhaps with the intention of awaking the man. \u201cYou know very well that he has planned for you and I to take the crown since our childhood.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cKeep it down.\u201d John growled. \u201cShe is not a peasant. She\u2019s from a noble family who have decided they didn\u2019t want to have to deal with the King anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cOh great!\u201d Chaya rolled her eyes. \u201cWhat did you do? Kidnap her?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cShe actually likes me.\u201d John said, \u201cAnd she returned with me out of her own free will, despite finding out who I am.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cOh, never mind, it\u2019s a long story I won\u2019t bother to bore you with.\u201d John waved his hand. \u201cBut thank you, Chaya, for staying with my Father when I wasn\u2019t here to do so. I have returned now, and we don\u2019t need your – kindness – any longer.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She huffed before grabbing her garments and storming out, shouting obscenities of the Prince. In the corridor she came face to face with who was to take her place. Looking back at the door and back to the woman, she huffed before going up to Aracely and smacking her across the face. \u201cNoble blood? You will be nothing but another one of his whores!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John heard the commotion on the corridor and quickly made his way over. \u201cPrincess Chaya, what are you doing? Apologize to Lady Aracely right now><\/em> and leave Atlantica.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI will not!\u201d she cried out and reached out to smack the woman again. A large hand had taken a firm hold before she was able to strike a second time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cPrince John has kindly<\/em> asked for you to leave. Take your servants and go before it will be done so by force,\u201d Dex said in his deep voice that many rarely had the pleasure of hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely had stayed back, unable to speak as she held her face where Chaya had hit her hard enough to leave a mark. With John\u2019s friend there to defend her, she quickly slid past, behind him to John\u2019s side. \u201cI said nothing to her, please believe that,\u201d she murmured.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John put his arm around Aracely as he looked at Ronon. \u201cMake sure she leaves.\u201d When Ronon nodded as an answer, John took Aracely inside his Father\u2019s chambers and looked at her. \u201cAre you alright?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nodding, she reached up to touch her cheek which was still very tender and quite reddened. \u201cYes. It was quite surprising as I had not anticipated such a violent reaction by her Highness.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cNeither did I, do you want me to get one of the servants to get you something for your cheek?\u201d John asked worried. \u201cI am so sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThere is no reason to be sorry,\u201d she smiled. \u201cI will be fine apart from some swelling later.\u201d Looking up at him she nodded again to assure that she was indeed fine before looking around. Frowning, she saw the king on his bed, appearing in a comfortable rest. Aracely truly did not wish to approach – or even be in the room as the scene was more familiar to her than she cared to admit. \u201cHe does not appear to have much longer,\u201d she observed very quietly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John quietly shook his head. Now that Chaya had gone, a world of relief had come down on him and right now he wanted to spend time with his Father. However, he needed to help settle Aracely in as well, and decide what to do with all the preparations Teyla and the servants had made for a wedding to someone that was not going to happen now. \u201cTeyla should be poking in her head any moment now, I will ask her to help you settle in… I hope you don\u2019t mind, but I\u2019d like to spend some time with my Father.\u201d John said softly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely put a hand on his arm and nodded. \u201cGo to him, I will wait in the hall for her return. I will be fine until you have finished.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He planted a chaste kiss on Aracely\u2019s unhurt cheek and turned around to walk to his father\u2019s bedside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She carefully exited the grande room, closing the door behind her. With a sigh she sat down in the chair that John\u2019s friend Teyla had sat in not long before. With no one else in the long corridor, Aracely found herself feeling very small and very much alone as she looked down at her hands in her lap.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cLady… Aracely, was it not?\u201d Teyla\u2019s kind voice sounded from next to Aracely. \u201cForgive me, I did not wish to startle you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cOh, dear. Yes, my apologies,\u201d Aracely said as she looked up at the woman with wide eyes and stood quickly. \u201cI suppose I lost myself in my thoughts there for a moment.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Teyla slightly bowed when Lady Aracely got to her feet. \u201cI have heard what Princess Chaya has done, are you alright?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYes, I am fine, thank you. Are you here to see Prince John? He is still in with his father and may be for some time yet,\u201d she replied. \u201cHe believed that you would be returning soon.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Teyla smiled warmly. \u201cPrince John knows me too well, however, I know him better.\u201d She nodded. \u201cI must apologize for my own behavior, and that of Sir Dex… and Sir Hammond, the Prince doesn\u2019t like formalities much, and he usually does not listen when being formally spoken to by people who have seen him as an infant.\u201d Teyla chuckled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt is understandable. Since I have met him, he did not react quite well when myself or my friends learned of his true being,\u201d Aracely said. \u201cMadam, if I may…How long has the King been this ill? The village where I am from do not receive a great deal of news from the land so there is a great deal that I am unaware of.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThe King has been ailing for years, it is only now that his body wishes to give up. His mind hasn\u2019t made that same wish yet. The last words the King had spoken was to John, to give him his blessing to find his heart\u2019s wish.\u201d Teyla replied. \u201cAnd please, call me Teyla, milady.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely nodded almost distractedly. Smiling weakly, she looked at Teyla. \u201cOnly if you will call me Aracely.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAs you wish,\u201d Teyla smiled. \u201cYou must be tired from your journey, I suspect your husband to be is probably going to stay with his Father until the very end, as he did with his Mother\u2019s passing, God bless her soul. I have prepared a wing for you, Milady… Aracely. Your personal servant is already there.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nodding, she pressed down her dress from her own nervousness. \u201cI am curious. What if Prince John and I do not wed before the King\u2019s passing? What will happen then?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cJohn would forfeit the throne and his cousin Jack of Simpsonia will be crowned King as he is the next in line, after John, and he is married.\u201d Teyla responded. \u201cIf I am allowed to speak freely, John does not think that Jack would be a good King.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From what Aracely saw of the King, she knew that the probability that they would make it to high sun the next day would be difficult. Looking back her she nodded. \u201cThis may be of haste, but would it be possible to locate a minister for officiate services this evening? I do know how much Atlantica means to John and to have him lose that by such a short time…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Teyla looked at the woman in shock. \u201cYou\u2019re as mad as he is!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cPerhaps, but then John would be able to assume the crown, would he not?\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYou should talk to John about this, milady. All I can say is that yes, it is possible to find someone for tonight, and please, when John says no, talk some sense in to his head, I\u2019d rather have you two wedded and able to take over the reign of Atlantica, than having to serve cousin Jack and his \u2026 \u2018wife\u2019 and family for the remainder of my life.\u201d Teyla said excitedly. \u201cDo you wish me to fetch John for you?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely looked at Teyla in all her glee. \u201cUm,\u201d she chuckled. \u201cI will speak to him if you can look into finding someone to speak for us. I am certain he won\u2019t mind if I join him.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cVery well, I\u2019ll set out to find a minister.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThank you Teyla,\u201d she nodded. Allowing her to go about her business Aracely took a deep breath before entering the King\u2019s bedchamber again. In the darkness, she could see John\u2019s untamed hair stand out through the shadows. Biting on her lip, she slowly made her way closer but feared his response as he had not looked up to see who joined him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John wiped the tears out of his eyes with his sleeve when the person who had entered had not announced him or herself yet, and looked up, only to see Aracely standing there. \u201cHey…\u201d He smiled bravely. \u201cAre you okay? Do you want me to do something for you?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI am fine,\u201d she said as she came closer to kneel beside him on the floor. \u201cI actually am here to see if there is something I can do for you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI keep on looking at him, trying to see if there\u2019s any chance in the way he breathes or maybe moving his lips, but he is just so still… he wasn\u2019t like this when I left.\u201d John said softly and looked at Aracely, tears coming back in his eyes as he tried to swallow them down. \u201cI don\u2019t think he\u2019ll wake up, and I don\u2019t think I can accept that yet.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She reached out to take his hand. \u201cI met your friend Teyla,\u201d she smiled up at him. \u201cShe is a lovely woman.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYes, she is.\u201d John nodded slowly. \u201cDid she show you around? Have you settled in?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely shook her head. \u201cShe did come to bring me to my room but after we spoke, I thought of something that she fears you may not be open to this moment. While Miss Teyla was prepared to speak to you about it, I insisted that I would speak myself.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhat is it?\u201d He asked as he looked into her eyes, there was something in there, an emotion he couldn\u2019t really place right now. Fear maybe, mixed with hope and something else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She swallowed hard as she tried to think of how to speak. \u201cWhile I would not dare to ask you to leave your father\u2019s side, the concern about his health before high sun tomorrow is shared among many of your people…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nodding, John sighed. \u201cI\u2019m sorry I took you away from your people… when cousin Jack moves in, I\u2019ll take you home.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reaching up, she put her hand on the side of his face and pulled him to look at her again. \u201cNo, John. What we were thinking was – bringing the minister in this evening,\u201d Aracely said slowly. \u201cTo officiate our joining before your father leaves this life for the next.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John thought for a second. \u201cNo,\u201d he replied, \u201cDon\u2019t get me wrong, Aracely, I still want you to be my bride, but I thought we would still have more moons together. You only just got here, and… if he passes, I can\u2019t be a husband to you as other people, the court mostly, will be pulling me all directions but to you… I can\u2019t do that to you. Not now.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She blinked, unsure of how to response to that but did find an anger in her. \u201cTeyla said as much. You truly are a very stubborn man,\u201d she let out. \u201cI know what this land means to you and by waiting you are letting it go. I am sure that the minister could come right here, to your father\u2019s bedside and officiate us. Do not think of anyone or anything else but what you truly wish. You said you wanted me for your wife, a number of times the last few suns. I am here with you, frightened yes, but I am here. You cannot rid of me quite so easily as Princess Chaya.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He couldn\u2019t help but chuckle. She was finally at ease with him to talk to him as a normal person, as an equal, and it made him very happy. \u201cI think that I… love you.\u201d John smiled. \u201cAnd you\u2019re right.\u201d She was right. They had gone through a lot of emotions in the last couple of days and he\u2019d be an idiot to stop now. \u201cThank you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely froze at his words. She had done nothing for him to have emotions enough to speak that kind of affection to her. Trying to get back on subject, she glanced away briefly. \u201cShall I inform Teyla that a minister is desired tonight?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John nodded, \u201cPlease.\u201d He then heard the door open and saw George walk in. \u201cGeorge?\u201d He raised an eyebrow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThe King and Queen of Proculus have just left with their daughter, and closed all trading negotiations between them and us.\u201d George said hesitant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely looked up at John and shrugged. \u201cProculus has bad tea,\u201d she replied. \u201cMy parents never cared for it and neither do I.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

George chuckled. \u201cThe tea from Britannia is far more superior, indeed, however, we will have to find a new source of \u2026–\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cGeorge, now is not the time. And I\u2019m sure that whatever you were going to say, it is probably nothing that we can\u2019t make ourselves.\u201d John said, \u201cI wish for you to fetch me Father\u2019s physician.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cRight away, Sire.\u201d George said and scurried out the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She watched as the man left and frowned. \u201cIs something wrong?\u201d she asked, turning back to John.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cNo, I just wanted him out of here.\u201d John shrugged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYou truly are a trickster,\u201d she shook her head with a sigh. \u201cI imagine the stress you were on your mother and Teyla in growing.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cNo, I wasn\u2019t, I just liked to escape the – strangle hold they had on me.\u201d He replied smiling. \u201cI didn\u2019t like it that my father was the King, I wanted to be like any ordinary child, running around the streets, without a care in the world. Of course, when I\u2019d do that, I had either Teyla or one of the servants running after me, it quickly became boring.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She sat there on the floor looking at him. Words were not coming easy right then, but a part of her knew they were not important. Aracely took the moment of silence to truly look at the Prince in a manner that she never did before, even after his proposal. While he was a striking man, she could see that his eyes were filled with both despair and life. How the staff managed his hair, she could not fathom. She suspected they had given up long ago and the thought caused a small laugh to escape from her lips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhat are you thinking of?\u201d John smiled at her and sank to the floor to sit with her.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cUm…your hair. I could not help but find it amusing as a child,\u201d she admitted as she hesitantly reached up to touch it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThey always wanted to shave my head, because of my hair when I was younger.\u201d John replied. \u201cWhen I got older, I told them that if they\u2019d touch my hair, I would feed them to the Beast in the forest. There is no beast, of course.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aracely quickly pulled her hand back. \u201cOops!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhile there is no beast, I do not wish to live in the forests,\u201d she grinned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John started to laugh uncontrollably. \u201cI meant with shaving knives!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYou did not specify,\u201d she shrugged as the sounds of low moans reached her ears. Looking up, she quickly realized the sounds were coming from the bed. \u201cJohn.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John scrambled to his feet and nearly fell on top of his father when he turned around. \u201cFather!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The King struggled to open his eyes and his voice was weak. \u201cMy John?\u201d he asked with raspy breaths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYes, father, it\u2019s me.\u201d John smiled as he caressed his father\u2019s hair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The old man coughed as he tried to raise his head, spots of blood coming from his lips. \u201cMy son…Where have you gone?\u201d he asked, nearly delirious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI am here father.\u201d John grabbed his hand and squeezed it. \u201cI have returned from my journey.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He looked around and squinted his eyes to focus on his son\u2019s face. \u201cJourney? Why did you go?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cRemember that I told you that I do not wished for Chaya to become my wife? I told you I was going to find… it\u2019s not important, father.\u201d John said softly. \u201cYou must save your strength.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYou look so much like your mother,\u201d he sighed into another cough. Closing his eyes the King appeared to have gone back into another length of slumber when he let out a sigh. \u201cDo not make my mistakes my son.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI won\u2019t father, I promise.\u201d John said softly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cFind your heart,\u201d the man wheezed into a cough. \u201cYour heart will make you an excellent king for the people.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cMy heart is called Aracely, Father.\u201d John replied. \u201cSave your strength, you shall meet her tonight, unless you are feeling up to it now.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There was nothing else said from the King then as he had already succumbed to sleep. Had it not been for the rise and fall of his chest, he might have been presumed gone already. Aracely reached forward to rest a hand on John\u2019s shoulder reassuringly. \u201cWe should find Teyla before he is too weak to awaken again,\u201d she said respectfully. \u201cI wish for you to be able to tell him that you have truly honored his wishes before you cannot.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

John nodded and looked at her, smiling a little. \u201cHe woke up.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cBecause he knows you are home,\u201d she smiled back. \u201cWe have a great many things to prepare and very little time to do it in.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Chapter 03 With little else to do to prepare, Prince John took a late start in the morning, in order to join Lady Aracely at the breakfast table. The pleasurable meal was unfortunately interceded, possibly by the Fates, when Gabriella ran in from outside. \u201cLady Aracely! Sir Lorne has returned…<\/p>\n

Continue reading<\/i><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1030,"parent":1032,"menu_order":2,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1045","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\nChapter 03 - MeekoBuggy<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"noindex, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Chapter 03 - MeekoBuggy\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Chapter 03 With little else to do to prepare, Prince John took a late start in the morning, in order to join Lady Aracely at the breakfast table. The pleasurable meal was unfortunately interceded, possibly by the Fates, when Gabriella ran in from outside. \u201cLady Aracely! Sir Lorne has returned... 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