Wilted

By Casey Newman

Vince Lefebvre, a man of the 16th century, never believed in Goblins or Ghouls. So when a stranger crosses his path he is none the wiser as they supernaturally manipulate his life. He would like to think that his decisions were his own but after meeting a very powerful vampire, and even more powerful witch, he is unsure. Which proves you dont have to believe in the supernatural to become one. Wilted, being the first of the Mother Earth chronicles, introduces you to a conglomeration of supernatural and mythological characters; leading you to the largest forced, paradigm shift the World has ever seen.

You opened up the series with a colorful humor that put me right into the garden with Dacian. The style of writing you have is so simple, yet so complex. There is an underlying tone that creates a sense of urgency to keep my eyes on the pages. I can feel that there is more than meets the eye.
Mindy Cole; Avid reader

I think Wilted pulls at the readers heart strings as a deep love story. Then haunts the mind as one is mesmerized into the life of a family man/Vampire. So anxious to get the next book.
Gloria Herring, Published Author, Austin TX

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Nov 21, 2011
• ISBN: 9781462066186

Casey Newman

Casey Newman began writing poetry at a young age but never believed she would become a writer until Wilted began interrupting her sleep. Born and raised in Texas, she still resides in her home state.

Book preview

Contents

The End

Poison

Emerald

Stranger

Another

Aimless

New World

Two Wrongs

In Awe

Yin The Mortal

Impatience

A New Dawn

How To Deal With Immortality

Past To Future

Epilogue — Visitor

For my family that made all this possible.

Snowman

"…Seasons come seasons go,

And the greatest ice must crumble

When it’s flowers’ time to grow.

And as one thing is beginning

So another thing must die,

And there’s never been a snowman

Who had ever seen July…"

-Shel Silverstein

Where The Sidewalk Ends

The End

I woke, just like any other day in Versailles, France. It was April of 1599. It had been a very rainy month. Though; the sky had decided not to rain this specific morning. I stood on my front porch looking out over my property. The land did not appear to complain about the rain. In fact; I had never seen it look so beautifully green. It was like a fairy tale that only a child could dream up. Yet, here I was giving witness to such a place. It was the most magical morning of my entire life. The world itself was quiet, if only temporarily.

It appeared that I was the only one to rise with the sun this morning. Only when the horses began to nicker in their stalls did others begin to wake as well. I could hear my wife, Evelien, with our youngest child Amelie in the dining. The cook was preparing our breakfast. Inside it was just a normal morning. Just then, I heard a commotion out near the gardens. I jumped forward on my toes in shock of the sudden sound. It was as though everything in the shed had fallen from its place. Surly this was the work of just one individual and just as I had suspected, here came my son, Dacian, running from the garden area. Not too far behind was my older gardener. Of course, he was screaming at Dacian.

God have mercy on you child because I will not! The old gardener hollered as he rounded the corner.

Immediately I felt guilty. This was not a pleasant way for him to begin his morning. Dacian’s eyes lit up as he rounded the corner of the porch and saw me. Immediately he ran to me, I suppose in the theory that I would assist him in his troubles. I had already begun contemplating what Dacian could have been doing. Yet as soon as he reached me I ceased such thoughts. There was little point in trying to understand what Dacian would be up to. Instead I began to wonder; how long that boy had been awake? Had he possibly seen the same sunrise as myself? It would have been wonderful to have found someone to share that moment with.

I do not understand his complaint father, Dacian began before the gardener had even begun to speak. ,I was simply taking a stroll before breakfast. Dacian said smoothly. Most others, who did not know him, would think that his words were the truth.

Of course my son. I spoke calmly even though I knew that he was fibbing.

It was true that Dacian loved to torture the gardener, it was like a sport to the boy. Most young boys will take up riding, or archery, maybe even fencing, but not my boy. Dacian was an inventor. He would create the strangest contraptions for simple, everyday work. My farrier just adored the contraptions he made. However, the gardener never really liked a one of them. I, unlike farrier or gardener; saw both sides to these contraptions. I was there when he created a new tool for the farrier to use with the horses that I didn’t completely understand. I was also there when one of his creations exploded covering one side of our house with manure. It always made me nervous to see one of his new inventions. I had to take note that Dacian had been rather mysterious and sneaky over the past few days. It made me even more nervous about what he was doing. Though the only way to find out would be to simply wait and allow Dacian to complete this new creation. It could not be any worse than the manure incident; or could it? I shuddered at the thought.

My lord— The gardener spoke; breaking my strange trance. He was gasping for air from chasing my boy. The young—master was digging—for somethin–directly-in the middle—of your Lady’s rose garden. I knew that I needed to be paying close attention.

Yet I knew that I couldn’t pay him my full attention. I had learned over the past six years to watch Dacian as the gardener spoke. Though I had to be rather sly about it. As the gardener spoke I noticed Dacian glance down and swiftly move his hands behind his back. I couldn’t help but wonder why. What is he hiding this time? Truly; it could be anything.

Is this true Dacian? Of course I knew it was, but I decided to give him another chance to tell me the truth.

I was not digging; I simply dropped something. He crossed his arms, his eyebrows slightly raised, and his posture extended obviously pleased with his new lie.

Well lets see it then. I spoke calmly though I am sure that a slight smile did cross my lips.

Upon those words the gardener smiled wildly and a look of near panic struck my son. He quickly searched though that mind of his for another excuse. Even I could see the wheels turning inside his mind as he thought. It was an entertaining spectacle. Eve had told me that Dacian got that look from me. She said that I made the same faces when I was thinking. Though I found that hard to believe. I had never noticed myself making such faces.

It was my quill for my letters; Dacian spoke up at last. I am afraid that it–blew away–in the wind. Yes; and I am so broken-hearted father; it was my favorite. He tried really hard to take on the proper role to prove his lie. Luckily, for me, he now dropped his arms to his sides and I was able to catch a great view of his dirt covered forearms.

Is that what caused the excess of dirt on your sleeves my son? I spoke with a smirk.

My narrow features wrinkled slightly, and my blue eyes met his for just a moment. Quickly his identical eyes turned down to the ground, accepting immediate defeat. Dacian, my only son, did look a great deal like me. Any time I saw him I could not help but marvel at the subtle similarities.

Dacian continued staring at the ground, running his foot around on the wooden panels of the porch. I had to admit that the boy was rather intelligent. He really learned from his mistakes. Though, I knew that soon he would be back to his old tricks; but only in a new way. It would be a way where he would not be caught as easily. He would simply adapt for the next time around.

I am sorry father. He said without raising his head.

That was enough for me. Of course; we all knew he would go right back to doing the same thing once our backs were turned. What can you do with children like this? I rolled my eyes and caved.

Well you had best rush up to your room to change before breakfast. I motioned for him to move along. It wont be long now till your mother will hear of this; and I find it best to tell her once you have left for your tutor. I hoped that the sincerity of my eyes got the point across. He was still in trouble.

A smile spread across my son’s face. He knew that there would be little to no punishment for his actions, even if I could remember by the end of the day. After all, he was only digging. I could hardly blame a young boy for that. The gardener, on the other hand, looked less than displeased with my choice. Though I didn’t really listen to a word he said. It was all kind of a blur as I thought about nothing but the feeling of the breeze gracing me with it’s touch.

After only a few minutes of time with the gardener; my oldest daughter walked up to me. No; that was not right. Brielle never walked. She would practically glide across the ground she walked on. There was no doubt that Bri was always such a delicate and precise young lady. Though she could also be very demanding, as most young women can be. Though she was much different than most of the other girls. She was obviously much more intelligent than most young ladies her age and she highly disliked playing with other girls. Instead she preferred to follow her mother around, asking questions with almost every breath. All in all she was oddly grown up for her age. Though to me she was still my baby girl and every moment I watched her it was like the first day. She was beautiful, like her mother, but she too had my blue eyes. Though they, unlike her brother, had her mother’s shape. When her eyes looked upon you it was as though they look into your very soul. I wouldn’t doubt that they could penetrate even the toughest of hearts. It was only Amelie, our youngest and final child, who shown Evelien’s near amber eyes. Which were still just as radiant. In-fact; I may have fancied them even more.

Father? Brielle addressed me, then waited patiently.

Yes my brilliant Brielle? My voice calmed with her presence. She always did have a calming nature about her. Any person was doomed in her presence. You simply wanted to please her.

Mother wishes you join us for breakfast; if you please. She nodded her head and a little smile shone over her delicate mouth. So eloquent she was.

I smiled and nodded, immediately turning my attention back to the gardener; to whom I was originally speaking. He had calmed down significantly since I had first seen him this morning. Which could, in theory, have been caused by my daughter. Not to mention, all my son had actually accomplished was only a hole in some dirt. It was hardly an issue. The gardener was already worn out from his morning festivities. I could tell by the beads of sweat forming around his brow. It would be a miracle if the man got any work done today.

I believe we are done here? I asked to see if there may be another issue to address before I relaxed for my day.

With a simple nod of his head I knew we were done and I dismissed myself for breakfast. I turned to face my home. The red hued stone that adorned it’s walls was unique and had been imported upon my wife’s request. It was the first thing she had ever asked for that was beyond the natural. The simple life was wonderful to her. Though she had grown a taste for stone work. It was her favorite kind of art. The exterior of the home was very grandeur and my wife had her stone sculptures scattered around the property. The land was beautiful, that I will not argue. It was simply not the life for Eve or myself; but this came with the occupation. The king had placed us here, even though he strongly desired that my family and I stay in or nearer the castle. We preferred Versailles, it was as close to home as we could get.

I quickly entered the dining area where my family sat waiting. I felt guilty for making them wait. Eve smiled at me as I entered, obviously exhausted. Amelie, our seven month old had kept her up during the night. Yet; even during exhaustion Evelien was the most radiant woman I had ever gazed upon. Her dark hair normally hung naturally around her shoulders resting on her well proportioned bosom; but today she had the front pulled back in braids with a small white flower in the back. I enjoyed this slight change. Her amber brown eyes, even when exhausted, were so vast many men have found themselves lost gazing into them. Even now, after years together, I get lost in her eyes. Everything about the woman was perfect, and she was mine. I couldn’t help but smile back at my wonderful family. Many say that life isn’t perfect; that it could never be perfect; but mine seemed to be.

We, as always, ate in perfect silence. Eve loathed the sight of food in others’ mouths, so talking was kept to a minimum. After our breakfast the carriage came around from the stables to take Dacian to his tutor. Which was another one of the pleasantries about my title. I was able to afford a decent tutor and I insisted that Dacian would be well educated. That way, in the future, he can be competent to make his own decisions. We stood on the porch to see him off, waving good-bye, as always, until Dacian was well out of view. Then Eve took Amelie upstairs for her morning nap, and of course, Bri was right there to lend a helping hand. I could see her dark hair bounced around her head as she all but ran up the stairs to help her mother

I couldn’t help but take a moment to wonder about Amelie. She was different than any of our other children. Amelie was born with pale hair, and it had not changed. The only similarities she shared with her immediate family members were her eyes. They had her mother’s color and my shape. Sometimes others thought that we had adopted her. In truth she looked very much like her grand mother, on Eve’s side. It was fascinating how close the resemblance was. Even their mannerisms were similar. Though Eve’s mom had passed before Eve was half grown. It was rather strange, almost supernatural.

Though the ladies were already up the stairs I found myself looking up after them. With a shake of my head I gained some focus. I wasn’t oblivious to the fact that I felt distant today. It was as though my mind was deciding, all by itself, that it wanted to take in the world and everything in it. With a sigh I began to walk absent mindedly outside. I had my favorite chair outside the barn. It had once been my fathers and it was filthy so it wasn’t allowed inside the house. It was here, in that chair, that I waited for the morning to pass. Normally, I would read but today I couldn’t focus enough to read. Instead I felt the breeze as it moved and changed while listening to all the strangely calming sounds around me. It was bliss.

The sun was a little higher in the sky now, making the property look as though it was simply painted upon the landscape. If possible; the colors were even more radiant than before. Some of my horses were being exercised out in the front pasture, the smell of them filled the damp air. It was strange to most but Eve and I loved the scent of horses mixed with moist grass. Others thought it was repulsive. I would have to make a point to share this experience with Eve as soon as she was able.

I leaned back, closing my eyes. Though I hardly needed any rest. It was simply impossible to keep my mind from wandering in pleasant thoughts. First I thought of simply being with Eve. Then, slowly, thoughts of work began to creep into my once pleasant thoughts. I sighed; it was impossible to know exactly when the king would call for me. Though I admired him in many ways I still found him foolish. I swear I could have laid everything out on a silver platter explaining every last detail and he would still mess it up.

It didn’t matter what I was in the middle of doing; when I received a summons I would have to leave. Which brought forth the idea of moving. Many high ranking officials love my work and I have been offered many other positions elsewhere. The only reason I had refused before was because of a slight pay cut and the complicated issue of moving my family. We were settled here. I didn’t think that it would be beneficial to move, nor would Eve be pleased. Yet I was curious if the idea would interest Eve now. It had been a few years since we had discussed moving.

There was no doubt that moving would be a difficult task. I just wasn’t sure it would even be possible yet. I only needed to check our finances before making the proposal to Eve. I don’t believe she would have an issue with a slightly tighter budget. Money was never our goal. Neither of us was raised wealthy. It was my title that gave me such great pay. I would quickly give up that title and the coin for a much more peaceful lifestyle.

I closed my eyes tightly, trying to force out the glow from the sun as well as any unpleasant thoughts. Slowly but surly my mind began to wonder. My imagination was so vast that at times like this I felt as though I myself had gone back in time by simply remembering. Not a detail was missed. Yet I could never remember anything when I wanted to. Still; it was always peaceful to occasionally escape the present to visit the past.

The first thing I could see was the old farm. It wasn’t anything special but it was where I was raised and where Eve and I had first met. Any memory of her could make me lose track of time and this time wouldn’t be any different. Before I knew it my mind swirled and sleep took me. It was almost surprising how well I could remember things when I was sleeping. Yet when I was awake the details just disappeared.

I HAD BEEN ONE OF five children born to Charles and Gwendolyn Lefebvre. My father had been a very successful blacksmith, traveling the world when he was younger. Which had brought him to meet my mother and finally settle. He continued his trade while offering apprentice services. My father was a tough and ruthless man so many men couldn’t stand up to the pressure. On average it took up to a week for some one to quit. My father simply expected too much and not every man was as naturally skilled as he was. Yet, to me, it was easy work. I spent most of my young life watching my father, learning from him. Thus he decided that when I got older he would make me his full on apprentice. He was so excited while I was anything but. That was when all the pressure was put on me and like all the other men before me, I feared that I wouldn’t last. Then something happened not long before my tenth birthday. My father had simply decided he no longer wanted me as his apprentice. I had never been so happy in my life. I felt free.

From then on I spent most of my time with my nose in a book and my father was seeking a new apprentice. Sadly, it was common knowledge that this would be my father’s last apprentice. Though it seemed that everyone knew but him. With his health declining it was difficult for him to get out of the house and even more difficult to continue working the way he was. We were preparing to call off the search when Eve’s father answered our call. At first I wasn’t impressed. The way they spoke was odd to me. Though my family hadn’t been initially from France, I had been raised here and I was use to the accent.

It was early the next morning when Eve and her father came to move into our ranch house. I saw them from across the yard as I snuck around with my sisters to see the new apprentice and his daughter. We were not impressed with what we found and my sisters even poked fun of Eve. Her dress was badly worn and tattered beyond repair. I couldn’t fathom why it hadn’t been thrown out already. On top of that her hair was mussed up and filthy. I felt saddened just by looking at her.

Over the next month they grew use to the house and property. I aided them only as instructed to by my father. If it had been up to me I would have avoided the lot. Yet my father was so ill that he truly needed my assistance and I suppose I should be grateful. Without that I would have never even attempted to get to know Eve. Over the next few months I grew to like the conversation with Eve, even though she was just a girl. Until that moment I had never met a truly intelligent woman. Most of the ones I knew worried more about their attire than their lives. Eve was different, she thought with her heart more often than not. What baffled me about her was that even though she was not a religious person she attended church every Sunday with her father. Only I knew how much she disliked going. The only reason she went was to keep her father company.

For some reason I was jealous that I couldn’t see her on Sundays. I needed to hear the words she would speak. I couldn’t put a price on her words; they meant so much to me. Soon enough I began visiting her early on Sunday mornings, trying to convince her to come with me instead of going to church. Of course she refused. It wasn’t proper for a young lady to take off with a young man alone, no matter how innocent. Yet after a few persistent months I was finally successful. From then it was just a matter of time until we were caught but I had already decided that it was worth it. I just couldn’t help myself around her, breaking simple rules became so easy. I just had to spend as much time with her as possible; even if she was filthy.

We were lucky that it was my mother who found us. If it had been my father the consequences would have been dire. My mother was more understanding and it wasn’t in her nature to judge. She was a very peaceful woman, not much could really get her down. What surprised me was her solution to this problem. She allowed my father to believe that the four of us, including Eve’s father were attending church. Instead she attended church with Eve’s father, allowing Eve and I to spend time together.

The week days were torture. I spent five days a week with my nose in books, studying. I couldn’t think of a reason why have of the stuff I was learning was important. I only knew that I missed Eve. It was pure torture. Yet it was worth it as long as I was able to Eve’s brilliant smile at the end of the day and tell her of the things I learned. She always loved my stories of school.

Then my lessons grew difficult and I went weeks with my nose in the books. I practically lived in a room filled with books. I thought for a while that I would go mad. I didn’t have time for day dreaming, I was forced to dream of her instead. It hadn’t been too long since I had last seen her but it had apparently been long enough. I was excited, it was a weekend and I had no work to do. I couldn’t wait to spend the day with Eve; but when I saw her I was frozen in place. She came up with her father to pick up his pay for some work he was doing. Though I couldn’t pay much attention to his transaction. I was mesmerized by Eve.

Though the first thing I noticed was her clean, radiant face; I was quickly drawn to her new, clean dress as well. It was the first time I had ever seen her like that. It was almost as though she was a whole new version of herself. I was so stunned, almost confused, that I couldn’t even think of what to say. I felt like a fool, trying to speak but recklessly stumbling over my words. Eve was no longer just my friend, she was a lovely woman and I was in awe of her.

When my father finally noticed how serious my infatuation was becoming he grew worried. He was so certain that Eve would hold me back from being successful. My father disliked her more than any person I had ever seen. I believe that if Eve’s father hadn’t been so skilled in his trade that my father would have sent them away, dieing without anyone to take over the business. That was my greatest fear. If he sent Eve’s father away then I would be the only option and I would have to give up on my lessons. I wanted to be with Eve but I couldn’t risk my father seeing us together for more than a second.

It wasn’t easy to keep my father in the dark, even if he was ill. He had begun to simply sit by windows when he felt too ill to work. This allowed him to be watching from any window at any time, making time with Eve even more scarce. Yet we still found a way to see eachother.

Yet as months passed it became for difficult for Eve and I to find time for eachother. Our talks became fewer and far between. It pained both of us but there was no way around it. We both knew that I would be leaving for Paris soon and though Eve adored my company she seemed to be avoiding me. It was during this time that my father’s nightmare nearly came true. He was worried that I would choose to stay with Eve instead of leaving for Paris.

It was true that I was excited about traveling and being on my own but there were painful draw backs. My father had decided that he didn’t want to risk my coming home and staying. So, I would leave for Paris and not return for years. I was sick for three days after that announcement. First I was angry with him, then only sad. It was true that I would miss Eve above anyone else. Yet; any time I gazed at my father I realized that our time was short as well. It was possible that he wouldn’t make it through the coming winter. Even if he did he would be more like a ghost than a man.

The anguish I felt was enough to distract me even from Eve. My father and I had never really seen eye to eye but he was still my father. I loved him as he did me. It was almost alien to think about returning to this house without him in it. So I wanted to make sure that the last few days I had with him were as blissful as possible. In so doing I avoided Eve. I knew that it would make him happy to see me focused. After all; I didn’t want him to die worrying about my decisions or lack there of.

The change in his attitude was almost immediate but so was my mother’s. She saw everything, nothing could slip past her and she didn’t agree with my decision. All she saw was the heartbreak I was causing Eve. It was almost frustrating that she didn’t truly understand why I was doing what I was doing. I couldn’t make everyone happy all at once.

Over the next few days I realized how much I had hurt Eve. Occasionally I would see her walking outside which was torturous in itself. She wasn’t acting like herself. Even her walk was strange. I could feel a strange bubble like sensation creep into my chest as I watched her, pain ridden, walk across the yard to the barn. I knew that I had broken her heart by ignoring her and I could barely stand it. Just seeing her made me wants to run to her and beg for her forgiveness. I had to talk to her. Yet I couldn’t risk my father seeing me.

In a confused panic I ran downstairs where my mother was waiting eerily.

Your father is asleep. She said with a smile as I continued towards the door. But don’t stay out in the open. How she knew what I was wanting was beyond me but I wasn’t going to stop and ask.

I barely broke stride as I moved passed my mother and towards the door. I felt like a criminal as I bolted from the house, running towards the barn. My heart sped as I halted before the barn door. I had come this far but now that I was here I was terrified, unable to move another step. I had caused the woman I loved pain without any explanation. How could I even attempt to stand before her now? I couldn’t even be sure that she would speak with me. I only knew that I had to try. With a slow deep breath and a burst of courage I practically pushed myself into the barn. Leaving our relationship in this manner was no longer an option to me. I walked up to her as quickly as possible, not allowing myself to rethink my decision.

I could tell by the way she turned around that she expected me to be someone else. As her eyes realized that it was in-fact me her emotion flowed. Her eyes filled with tears even though she wouldn’t allow their release. Even her delicate hands began to quiver slightly as she tried to gain control of herself before speaking.

I know not what I did to upset you so. Her voice shook slightly, eyes now focused towards the ground. If you tell me I am sure we can come to terms.

I couldn’t fathom why she seemed so nervous. It was as though she expected some form of retaliation on my part. If only she had looked within my eyes she would have known immediately that I loved her and would never wish any harm on her. Yet she all but refused to let her gaze lock with mine. Though I assumed that Eve was too emotionally injured to look at me the way we both wanted.

What is it you fear Eve? My voice had been nervous and shaky.

Please do not cause my father to suffer at the cost of my actions. She spoke quickly as though she had to force herself to speak, her eyes still remained hidden from mine.

I am not upset with you Eve. I never have been. My head shook uncontrollably.

I had been trying to get her eyes to look into mine so I took a small step towards her. She began to cry immediately so I took an even larger step towards her, forgetting all invisible boundaries. I lifted her tear streaked face to look up at me. Yet her eyes still avoided mine, fighting to stay away. I could hear her sobbing, trying to control herself. The silence was more than I could stand. I had to explain myself. That was why I had risked this trip. I couldn’t leave with her believing that I didn’t want to be around her.

You know my father has been quite ill. I tried to explain. He wished me to not see you. He may very well die before I return from Paris. I felt myself begin to stutter as I too tried to keep my emotions in check. I had to give him some peace of mind. I am sorry to cause you suffering. I hope you understand. I still hadn’t released her face from my hands.

I do. She seemed to be gaining control of her crying. But you could not find a way to tell me of this decision? Her voice had turned suddenly angry.

I needed Eve. That much I already knew. I could not allow my juvenile idiocy to ruin our relationship. We were in love; though we had never spoken the words. Her stance began to change as more anger flowed into her mind. I began to panic as I thought of her denying. I could not risk losing my one true love. Before I could even think things over I fell to my knees before Eve, exchanging my gentle hold on her face to her hands. I had to admit that I was worried. I couldn’t be sure if I held her hands to keep her from striking me or simply to touch her again. I massaged her hands slightly, trying to gain control over my erratic thoughts. I had expected her to become even more angry with me but instead she gave way to my hands.

I deserve your vengeance Eve. I am so terribly sorry; can you but forgive me? I pleaded, practically shaking like a leave.

Forgive you? Now? Her voice was sharp for just a moment. Vince? Do you not remember your impending departure? Tears came back to her eyes as her voice calmed slightly.

I know, I am aware that I must leave. Know that I do it for our future; that is if we have one. Finally out eyes met, a look of shock coating both of our faces.

Our eyes remained locked for a long time in silence until Eve closed her eyes tightly allowing only one tear to escape.

Vince.. She began.

I love you Evelien… I spoke quickly. Immediately regretting my choice. After all; she could be denying me.

I love you too Vince. She said; choked on her words. You may write me. Upon that she left the stables in haste.

I stood there in the barn for a while. I was anxious, worried, and excited all at once. Eve was allowing me to write her. That had been more than I had ever expected after the way I had treated her. I was sure that when I returned it would be to ask for her hand in marriage. For some reason that made me feel almost ill. I knew that I had to leave but now, more than ever, I wanted to day. I felt almost dead as I went through the motions of completing my day. I was terrified to leave but also terrified to stay.

If I didn’t leave I wouldn’t be able to obtain a title that would give Eve what she deserved. Yet if I left I wouldn’t see Eve for years. I couldn’t say why but I felt as though no matter what I chose my life was doomed. It seemed almost impossible to get everything I wanted. The day I left was even worse. I was unable to say good bye to Eve the way I wanted because of my father’s involvement. At least Eve understood why. Still; I died a little when I entered the carriage. Fear filled every ounce of my being.

Every day in Paris was torture. There wasn’t a single person I met that I wanted to be around. I wanted only to return home, to return to Evelien. There was a part of me that didn’t even care what my father thought. Every day I cared less and less about his opinions. Of course; as suspected; my father didn’t surprise the winter. Which only made things worse for me. Now there was no reason for me not to return. I hadn’t expected my mother to step in, forcing me to stay away. I didn’t even make it to his funeral.

I had to wait another two years before I could return home. The first person I saw was Eve. She had grown up beautifully. I was beyond excited to tell her my good news. I was chosen immediately out of school to advise the owner of a bank in Paris. I had only six months before I would be forced to leave yet again. However; I wad determined that this time, Evelien, would be at my side….’

Unfortunately a strange voice woke me from my day dream, causing me to return to the land of the living. Sir?

Without much of a choice I snapped up from my seat. Yet I wasn’t fully awake. It took a moment of excessive blinking for the world to finally come into view. At first I didn’t see who had spoken to me, I almost decided that I imagined it.

Are you Vince Lefebvre? The smooth voice came again, causing me to jump yet again.

My eyes scanned the area around me, trying to find my visitor. It sounded as though he was within the darkness of my barn but I couldn’t be sure and something about this situation made me feel nervous. Against my better judgment I began walking into the barn. I listened for any sound that would prove I wasn’t hearing things but nothing came. It wasn’t until the young man moved that I began to feel less insane. Though I had to admit that he gave me quite a fright.

My eyes focused, getting use to the dim light around me. The first thing I recognized was his attire; I knew it all too well. He was a messenger for the King. It was no wonder I had felt uneasy about the man. I never enjoyed receiving a summons. That would mean I would have to leave my family. Yet, I could not help but wonder why the young lad remained in the shadow of the barn. He was just within arms reach but still; it was odd. Most messengers made themselves known immediately and don’t lurk about in the shadows.

I only nodded towards the young man in response. He took a step towards me, notice in hand. I could only sigh as I knew what would come next. I would have to leave for Paris. I had just returned from a three weeks absence. It didn’t seem normal. Though not much about this day was normal. Even the messenger’s flesh was strange. I had never seen such perfect, white skin. I almost reached out to touch him if only to confirm that he was real. He seemed more like an angel than a messenger.

Message from the Queen. His icy smooth voice was music to my ears. I would agree to almost anything if I was asked with such a perfect voice.

Yet his words caused me to grow suspicious. Just as my fingers grasped the summons the boy began moving backward. It was as though he was scared of me. Which made since after this strange visit. I would have been nervous as well. There was no doubt in my mind that I would discuss this strange day with the King as soon as possible. Then I remembered; it wasn’t the King that had written this summons; it was the Queen.

I am normally only addressed by the king. I regretted speaking at all, knowing that my voice was nothing in comparison to the lad’s.

These are special times my lord. Again his melodic voice rang in my ears.

Yet this time there was an eerie quality to it that made my hair raise on end. He sounded overly cheerful, as though his words were nothing but a joke. I grimaced but read the letter. It was almost pleasant to take my eyes away from this stranger.

"Sir Vince Lefebvre,

Your council is needed immediately

Signed

Your Queen"

This whole situation was very strange; and honestly, I didn’t trust it. Yet; the summons adorned the royal seal. So it must be true and I must respond. As I pondered over the summons I grew tortured with the idea of the Queen addressing me. It was not that I had issues with such a matter. I only worry about the circumstances. The Queen never addresses me, only the king, he is whom I work for. But now was not the time to take any risks. So; I shook off my worry and turned to readdress the messenger boy. After all; his duties were complete.

I will leave as soon as I set a few things in order, I thank you for your service. I sighed as I raised my gaze from the summons.

To my surprise the lad was already gone. This left me shocked and rather confused. I hadn’t even seen him move past me. It was as though he had just vanished. Again I sighed; I suppose that my desired ride with Eve would have to wait until I returned from Paris. Though the thought of waiting nearly broke my heart. It was only a full day and nights ride if I did it right; but even then; four days away from my family was difficult for me. How could I protect them from that distance? I sighed in disappointment and walked towards my lovely home to tell Eve of this depressing news.

My walk back up to the house was emotionless. In-fact I could barely remember leaving the barn. I didn’t want to open my front door but knew that it was inevitable. There wasn’t much I could do to that would keep me from leaving. With a heavy heart I entered the living area. As soon Eve noticed me she gracefully greeted me with a tender hug and kiss. I highly enjoyed her embrace; but from the moment our bodies touched we knew that something was amiss.

I saw the messenger. Her eyes searched mine. Must you leave again? Eve’s