Blacksmith Rapunzel

By KuroKoneko Kamen

A genderbent retelling of the classic fairytale Rapunzel...

When Rapunzel finally gathers the courage to leave his tower he triggers a booby trap spell that transports him to the Heroes’ Labyrinth. Armed only with his magic hair he’s thrown into a dangerous, subterranean world where undead monsters are constantly trying to eat or kill him. Rapunzel discovers that the only way to leave the Labyrinth is to beat it.

Necromancer Gothel created the Labyrinth as a test to find a ‘true hero’. Each level has a Boss Monster, which must be defeated before a hero can proceed to the next level. Rapunzel has to make it past Zombie Frankie Stein, Insectoid Queen Khepera, Dark Elf Queen Norebo, and Vampire Queen Draculara before he can reach the final level where Gothel resides.

During his quest to forge an enchanted sword powerful enough to defeat Demon King Gothel, Rapunzel encounters the volatile alter ego of Dr. Henrietta Jekyll - Edwina Hyde. ‘Hydie’ is a powerful witch with an affinity for wind elemental magic. She tries to capture Rapunzel and return him to his tower. After saving Hydie’s life, however, Rapunzel is able to convince Hydie to make a temporary truce so that they can team up and increase their chances of survival.

As Rapunzel and his new ally fight side by side the blacksmith starts to admire Hydie for her strength and bravery while he begins to appreciate Henrietta for her brilliant, scientific mind that helps to get them out of several risky predicaments without the use of brute force. Rapunzel ends up falling in love with both women even though they couldn’t be more different from one another.

Unfortunately, in Fantasia a hero is destined to kill the villain and save the woman he loves. Does this mean Rapunzel is destined to kill Hydie in order to save Henrietta? Rapunzel is determined to protect both women, but...

Who will survive the Heroes’ Labyrinth?

• Language: English
• Publisher: KuroKoneko Kamen
• Release date: Jan 8, 2020
• ISBN: 9781370730186

KuroKoneko Kamen

Author KuroKoneko Kamen (Black Kitten Mask) has always had an interest in Japanese culture from folktales about yokai (ancient demons) to anime and manga. As a result of being an otaku a lot of her stories are set in Japan or have a Japanese theme. Even when in the midst of a pirate novel expect a samurai warrior to be thrown into the mix. Her latest passion is paranormal romance and she’s written stories where ghosts, demons, and angels find love. Keeping her company as she writes are her several dogs and cats, some of which are rescues (now including a pet turtle someone wanted to make a soup out of). To keep updated on new stories and specials visit the author’s facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/authorkurokonekokamen.

Book preview

Blacksmith Rapunzel

GENDERBENT FAIRYTALES COLLECTION

Book 8

By KuroKoneko Kamen

Copyright 2020 by KuroKoneko Kamen

Cover Design by Leah Keeler

Smashwords Edition, License notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be resold or give away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

This is a work of fiction. All characters are invented. Any resemblance to persons living or dead is purely coincidental.

Chapter 1:

Years ago in Sol Kingdom there lived an apprentice wizard named Gothel and his wife Rosalind. The couple was very much in love, and although they were poor and lived simply they were happy. Gothel’s Master was the Wizard King and hero, Siegfried Solis.

Gothel wanted to prove his worth to King Siegfried and become a part of the king’s Wizard Guard as soon as possible so that he could provide for Rosalind better, and was working day and night at his magic with this aim in mind. He wanted to treat his wife like a princess, and wanted to be able to buy her pretty, silk dresses and expensive jewelry.

Rosalind only laughed when her husband told her of his aspirations. She had little interest in material possessions. But there was something she wanted above all else - a child. Unfortunately, it appeared Rosalind was barren. This discovery saddened Rosalind because becoming a mother was her greatest wish. Gothel only wanted his wife to be happy, and vowed that he would find a way to cure her affliction using magic.

Sol Kingdom was the most peaceful and prosperous Kingdom in the Land of Fantasia due to King Siegfried’s protection. Even elves and seraphs lived among the Kingdom’s human inhabitants. But Siegfried’s protection wasn’t what one might expect. The blacksmiths of Sol Kingdom used the king’s magical hair to forge enchanted weapons.

A lock of Siegfried’s golden hair would be added to the smelting pot along with a lock of hair from the person the weapon was being made for. Once the blacksmith started to hammer the blade it would transform into an enchanted weapon. The weapon would usually take the form of a sword, but could also take on the form of an axe or spear.

An enchanted weapon made with the king’s hair could only be wielded by the person it was made for, and would possess its own unique magical abilities. If the wielder was a witch or wizard they could activate the sword’s magic by chanting spells.

If the wielder was a dullard - a human who did not possess magic - then the weapon would gather energy from sunlight or moonlight that would be used to power any magical attacks that were activated when the wielder would chant a spell.

The enchanted weapons were the Kingdom’s primary defense against the malevolent Wizard King Reginald and his Wizard Army. King Reginald was frequently trying to expand the lands of Apple Kingdom, and enslave those who did not possess magic.

Sickness and disease was not known in Sol Kingdom due to King Siegfried’s magical healing ability. Siegfried would often travel into the villages near the castle and heal his subjects with his own hands. As a result of Siegfried’s kind deeds he became known throughout Fantasia as a holy, benevolent king.

Siegfried and his apprentice Gothel studied the king’s magical hair together at the castle. They performed several magical experiments to test the hair’s properties and uses. Siegfried’s aim was to find a way to create an item that would possess the king’s healing ability. At first, Siegfried thought that eventually one of the enchanted weapons that were forged would possess his healing ability, but this never came to pass.

It had been Gothel’s idea to experiment with the king’s blood, sweat and tears. In a secret garden, Gothel nurtured various plants, but they all died except for the rampion that seemed to thrive off of the king’s blood. The rampion normally had blue flowers, but as a result of being fed the king’s blood the flowers had turned a golden-yellow color.

Gothel tested the effects of the rampion on himself when he’d developed a fever, and discovered that the rampion cured him almost instantly. The rampion plants appeared to possess King Siegfried’s healing ability, which meant their experiments had been a success. Theoretically, the plant would be able to cure any illness.

Siegfried tasked Gothel with taking care of the rampion, and also assigned guards to protect the garden. Siegfried decided to keep the rampion a secret from his people, and intended to only use the rampion during an emergency, such as an outbreak of plague. The Dark Wizards of Apple Kingdom would sometimes try and attack neighboring Kingdoms using the plague and Seigfried wanted to be ready for them.

When Gothel humbly requested enough rampion for a single salad that he intended to give to his wife Rosalind, he was disappointed when Siegfried refused his request. The Wizard King apologetically explained how dangerous it would be for him if the secret behind the healing power of the rampion were discovered.

Dark Wizards would target Siegfried in order to use his blood, sweat and tears as potion ingredients. For this very reason, it became forbidden for anyone to touch or eat the rampion. Gothel felt slighted by Seigfried’s denial of his request. The rampion was his wife’s only hope, and he’d been the one who’d had the idea of feeding the king’s blood to plants. Gothel felt the king owed him what he felt was his due.

That’s why Gothel decided that he would sneak into the secret garden and steal a single rampion plant for Rosalind. One night, Gothel stealthily made his way to the castle grounds and approached the walled garden. He peeked out from behind a bush at the five Wizard Guards that had been posted outside the door to the secret garden.

Dark magic was forbidden in Sol Kingdom, but Gothel decided that using it was his only chance to get past the guards. Gothel crouched, placed his hands on the ground, and summoned his magical power. He willed for the dogs and cats that had been buried in the gardens to arise, and they started to emerge from the earth. Since they had been buried so long ago only their skeletons remained.

Dozens of skeletal dogs and cats with glowing red eyes made their way over to Gothel and awaited the Necromancer’s next command. A giddy smile curled Gothel’s lips at the sight of the undead creatures that were at his command. Performing necromancy filled him with a heady feeling. He’d almost forgotten how intoxicating it was to wield so much power.

Gothel pointed at the five Wizard Guards. Go get them. The skeletal dogs and cats charged towards the guards. The guards took one look at the undead creatures rushing towards them, and screamed in horror before taking off running with the monsters hot on their heels.

Gothel let out a low chuckle as he approached the door to the secret garden unchallenged. The sight that met Gothel when he entered was orderly rows of rampion with glowing, golden-yellow flowers. Gothel hurried over to the closest rampion plant and pulled it out of the ground. He wrapped the plant up in a piece of cloth he’d brought with him to hide the plant’s unusual glow from prying eyes.

Gothel straightened, turned around, and took a step towards the door. That’s when he noticed King Siegfried standing in the doorway while casually leaning against the door’s frame with his muscular arms folded in front of his broad chest. Siegfried raised his eyebrows at Gothel in an unspoken question.

Gothel gulped at Siegfried’s intimidating appearance. The king was dressed in a suit of golden armor, and there was a broadsword strapped to his side. The Kingdom’s emblem - a winged sun - was engraved onto the breastplate. There were rumors that seraph blood flowed through the king’s veins, and that this was the reason for the Kingdom’s emblem being a sun that had a pair of angelic, feathery wings.

Gothel had always felt self-conscious of his gloomy appearance when he was around the dashing King Siegfried. Gothel was jealous of the king’s golden-bronze skin tone, and muscular physique. Gothel in comparison had deathly pale skin, and a lanky body, which looked weak. Siegfried’s short hair and neatly trimmed beard were a golden-blonde color, and his sharp blue eyes brimmed with intelligence. Gothel’s shoulder-length black hair was untamable, and his dark brown eyes were perfectly ordinary.

There was a twinkle in Siegfried’s blue eyes as he addressed Gothel in a stern tone. What is the meaning of this, Apprentice Gothel?

His entire body trembling, Gothel sank to his knees, and lowered his head. Your Majesty…I’m sorry. Please, forgive me.

Siegfried sighed and waved his hand in an impatient gesture. That isn’t an answer to my question, Gothel. Why did you try to steal the rampion even after I forbade you from taking it.

With a haggard expression on his face Gothel looked up and met Siegfried’s piercing stare. I need it for my wife…Rosalind.

Siegfried’s golden eyebrows shot up to his hairline, and his eyes widened like saucers. I didn’t know you were married! He stroked his goatee thoughtfully. Your wife is ill?

Gothel flushed. He felt uncomfortable discussing such intimate matters with his king, but knew he had no choice but to explain the current situation. My wife’s greatest wish is to have a child, but she’s barren, Sire.

And you thought the rampion could cure her infertility? Siegfried asked, but the question was directed more to himself. Interesting. I am curious to see if it would work to cure something like that as well. Gothel, I want you to bring your wife here to the castle tomorrow night. You both will join me for dinner.

Gothel gave the king a bewildered look. Your Majesty?

The rampion cannot leave the castle grounds, Siegfried started to explain with an apologetic look on his face. If people were to discover how it was made…Dark Wizards will start targeting me. They’ll want to chop me up and use me as a potion ingredient. Siegfried let out a dark chuckle. I can’t risk the rampion’s secret getting out, so if you want your wife to eat it - it will have to be under my roof.

It was a generous offer, but Gothel hesitated upon agreeing. King Siegfried was unmarried, and Rosalind was very beautiful. Gothel wouldn’t be surprised if Siegfried grew enamored by Rosalind at first sight. Siegfried was more handsome than he was but…in the end he trusted in Rosalind’s love for him.

Rosalind would never betray him. And besides, the chances of Siegfried marrying a commoner were slim. His royal advisors would never allow it. Gothel offered the king a curt nod. Very well, Your Majesty. I will bring Rosalind to the castle to dine with you tomorrow night. Thank you for your mercy, and for your generosity.

Excellent. Siegfried smiled widely and moved out of the doorway to give Gothel room to pass him. You may go.

Gothel was just about to pass through the doorway when Siegfried cleared his throat and held out his hand expectantly. Gothel looked down at the rampion plant he was still holding that was wrapped in a piece of cloth. He flushed out of embarrassment that he’d completely forgotten he still had the plant. He gave the king a sheepish look and handed the rampion over. Sorry. Gothel started to walk past his king.

One more thing, Gothel, Siegfried began when Gothel was directly beside him and he was able to whisper the following words into the apprentice’s ear. The practice of Necromancy is forbidden in Sol Kingdom. It is a crime punishable by death. I’d appreciate it if you didn’t put me in a position that will force my hand. We may be friends, but Necromancy is forbidden for a reason. Your continued use of the art would pollute this holy land with your dark magic. I can’t turn a blind eye on such things forever. It would be wise not to become my enemy.

A chill of fear crawled up Gothel’s spine. Understood, Your Majesty. I’m sorry. It won’t happen again.

Gothel returned to his home in the nearby village. The small cottage with a thatched roof and crooked stone chimney was a sight for sore eyes when he reached it. In front of the house was a humble vegetable garden that his wife tended to. Gothel’s lip twitched into a lopsided smile when he noticed a light shinning in the window. Rosalind had stayed up waiting for him.

As soon as Gothel entered the cottage the delicious smell of rabbit stew filled his senses. He spotted his wife Rosalind stirring a pot that was hanging in the hearth over a fire. She turned around at the sound of the front door opening and beamed when she caught sight of Gothel.

Rosalind’s beauty always made Gothel’s heart skip a beat even after having been married to her for almost a year now. His wife had long, wavy brown hair, sparkling green eyes, skin as white as the moon, and lips as red as a rose. She was wearing a simple, brown cotton dress with a white apron over it. Rosalind looked like a queen even in the midst of such humble surroundings. Their cottage didn’t have much: a single bed, a square-shaped wooden table surrounded by four chairs, and a crib that was covered by a thin layer of dust.

Gothel! Rosalind dropped her wooden spoon into the pot, and rushed over to her husband. She threw her arms around him, hugged him tightly, and pressed her cheek against his lean chest in an affectionate manner. Gothel placed his hand on top of her head as he stared down at her fondly. Thank goodness you’re home. I was beginning to get worried with how late it is. I thought… Rosalind trailed off, looked up at Gothel, and bit her lower lip.

Gothel arched an eyebrow at her. "You thought what?"

That someone must have caught you doing Necromancy and had you arrested for it, Rosalind admitted in a fearful whisper. Gothel flinched guiltily causing Rosalind’s eyes to sharpen. You performed Necromancy, didn’t you? Oh Gothel, how could you? she chided.

I…did it for you, Gothel said defensively. It was the only way to get past the Wizard Guards and into the secret garden. I told you about the rampion plant I’ve been raising. Well, it works. It has the king’s healing ability. I wanted to bring some back to you to see if it would cure you of your infertility.

Rosalind was both touched and troubled by this revelation. But, you failed to get the rampion?

King Siegfried caught me in the act of stealing it, Gothel admitted in a forlorn tone.

Rosalind sucked in a worried breath. So, then…you are to be executed? When…?

Gothel chuckled. No. Siegfried is merciful. He won’t punish me for performing Necromancy. He’s invited you to dinner tomorrow night. You’ll get to eat the rampion then.

Rosalind’s green eyes widened. I am to go to the castle and dine with the king? She twirled a lock of her hair around her finger in a hesitant manner. Gothel, I don’t think that’s such a good idea. King Siegfried is unmarried and still needs an heir. And I am his subject. If he were to ask me to-

King Siegfried isn’t like that! Gothel swiftly interrupted his wife with an angry edge to his voice. "He is an honorable man. He would never take a woman by force. As long as you remain true to me…we have nothing to worry about. I know I’m not good enough for you, Rosalind. But, you do love me, right?"

Rosalind’s worried expression softened. I love you, Gothel. I always have…ever since we were little kids. We grew up together. You’ve always been there, by my side. I can even remember the moment I fell in love with you. It was when my pet cat died and you found a way to bring her back to life. Even though Necromancy is forbidden in Sol Kingdom you were willing to risk facing execution in order to make me happy.

"But…it didn’t make you happy. Gothel felt the need to point out with a chagrined expression on his face. Your cat came back to life, but she was a moving, rotting corpse. It frightened you terribly and made you cry."

Rosalind lifted her shoulders in an unconcerned shrug. Yes…I’ll admit that at first I was terrified until I realized how amazing what you’d done was. Even if it didn’t work the way you’d hoped…you’d still managed to bring my cat back to life. In that moment, I realized that you’d do anything for me. It’s why I fell in love with you. I know I am your everything, and that pleases me greatly.

Rosalind’s smug tone didn’t bother Gothel. "You’re right. You are my everything, Gothel readily agreed. I would do anything for you. Anything."

Then you have nothing to worry about, Rosalind said, staring into his eyes with an emotional look. I was born into this world to love you, Gothel.

Gothel could see the love shinning in her green eyes, and felt warm. How did I ever get so lucky? I’m not good enough for you. Not handsome enough. Not rich enough. If only Necromancy weren’t forbidden in Sol Kingdom I could become one of the most powerful wizards in all of Sol. Then I could provide for you better. Why did my magic affinity have to be for death magic? he lamented.

We could always move to Apple Kingdom, Rosalind suggested thoughtfully. You could join Reginald’s ranks.

Gothel gaped at his wife in shock. Rosalind! That’s treason! If I did that I would become King Siegfried’s enemy. He scrubbed a hand down his face. "I could never betray Siegfried. He’s been good to me. To us. He’s kept my secret…that I’m a Necromancer. A Dark Wizard. I consider him to be a friend. Also, I don’t agree with Reginald’s ideology that dullards are lesser beings that should be enslaved. You’re a dullard, Rosalind. If we moved to Apple Kingdom you would become my slave. You would be looked down upon and belittled. I could never allow you to go through that."

Rosalind let out a defeated sigh. Sometimes, her husband’s chivalry irritated her, but she decided to play along for now. Then, we stay here…if you think that’s for the best.

I trust King Siegfried, Gothel said adamantly. We must put our faith in him. We’ll be safe here in Sol Kingdom. Siegfried is a good man. A true hero of Fantasia.

I trust your judgment, my love, Rosalind purred, giving Gothel a heated look. If you think I should trust King Siegfried then I shall. Now, I’m hungry for something that isn’t stew. Will you give it to me, husband?

Gothel swallowed, cupped Rosalind’s face, and kissed her. He could never deny this woman anything.

***

The following night, just as Gothel and Rosalind were about to depart for the castle a servant arrived at their cottage with a package from the king. When Rosalind opened the box it was to reveal a gorgeous dress made out of emerald green silk. The dress was the exact same shade as Rosalind’s eyes, and was embroidered with the pattern of flowers in golden thread.

The sight of that dress caused Gothel to frown. It must have been worth a fortune. Gothel knew that he was feeling jealous and uncomfortable with King Siegfried’s extravagant gift to his wife, and he hated himself for it. It meant that he was a petty, shortsighted man. Still, he wished he could buy Rosalind such finery himself, and felt like Siegfried was rubbing it in his face that he could spoil Rosalind, whereas, Gothel could not.

Rosalind was unable to stop the gasp that slipped past her lips as she admired the dress. She removed the dress from the box and held it up so that she could admire it better. It’s so beautiful. I’ve never seen such a lovely dress in all my life.

I could never afford to get you a dress like that, Gothel grumbled bitterly.

Rosalind’s attention turned to Gothel and she noted that he was unhappy. That wouldn’t do at all. She set the dress back down inside the box. "I don’t need pretty dresses. All I want is you, Gothel. You belong to me. Don’t you ever forget that. I’m incredibly selfish and possessive. I want you all to myself. That’s why I never let you cut your hair. I don’t want the other girls in this village realizing how handsome you’ve become. Don’t worry. I won’t wear the stupid dress."

Gothel was touched by his wife’s consideration for his feelings, and could feel his anger draining out of him. No. It’s alright. You should wear it. You deserve the chance to look like a princess for a night. And you can’t very well meet the king dressed in a ragged peasant dress. I don’t want Siegfried looking down on you. You deserve everyone’s admiration and respect at the castle. And in that dress, you shall easily have it.

Rosalind nibbled on her lower lip. Well, if you insist, my husband. I’ll wear the dress.

Yes. Please, do. Gothel’s voice had turned husky. I’m looking forward to seeing you in it.

Once Rosalind had finished getting dressed in the emerald green gown she didn’t look like a princess. She looked like a queen. Gothel immediately regretted telling Rosalind to wear the gown. She looked too beautiful in it. But he couldn’t tell her that he’d changed his mind about her wearing it, not when she looked so happy.

What do you think? Rosalind asked coyly as she twirled, causing the belled skirt of the dress to flare out. How do I look? Rosalind’s cheeks were flushed pink and she was smiling.

You look stunning, Rosalind, Gothel admitted.

Rosalind’s smile disappeared at the note of sadness in Gothel’s voice. She reached out, placed a hand on Gothel’s arm, and gave him a searching look. I’ve made you unhappy. Why?

It had always impressed Gothel how Rosalind could see right through him. I’m worried King Siegfried won’t be able to keep his eyes off of you. I’m afraid that you’ll leave me for King Siegfried. Gothel thought miserably, but he kept these worries to himself. He didn’t want to appear to be as pathetic as he felt. I’m just nervous about tonight. I’m wondering if the rampion will cure you.

Rosalind squeezed his arm in a reassuring manner. If it works, it works. If it doesn’t, then it doesn’t. What is meant to be, is meant to be.

Gothel gave her a suspicious look. But I know how much you want a child.

Yes. But at least I have you. At least, we have each other, Rosalind said passionately. Maybe…I shouldn’t be so greedy. She nibbled on her lower lip in a fretful manner. Maybe I’m asking too much of the gods for wanting to have a child with you. What if they punish us? Maybe we shouldn’t go to the castle tonight. I feel like if we do…everything will change.

No. We should go. This could be your only chance to cure your infertility, Gothel argued. "I promised that I would find a way to cure you, and I have. That magical rampion wouldn’t even exist if it weren’t for me, and my idea of feeding the king’s blood to the plant. I created the rampion for you."

Alright. Let’s go to the castle, Rosalind agreed hesitantly. Only, just promise me one thing. That you’ll never leave my side while we’re at the castle.

I promise, Gothel said firmly. I’ll protect you.

A few minutes later, a horse-drawn carriage arrived at their cottage to take them directly to the castle. Once they arrived, Gothel and Rosalind exited the carriage, and walked up the steps to the castle’s front door. A servant appeared as soon as they’d entered the castle, and escorted them to the dining room.

Rosalind tried not to look too impressed by the finery surrounding her since she knew it would bother Gothel. A red and gold rug runner was beneath her feet, and white marble statues of winged men and women sat in shadowed alcoves. Look, Gothel, seraphs, Rosalind said pointing at one of the statues. The statue was of a woman dressed in flowing robes with a pair of feathery wings outstretched behind her.

They say the royal family is descended from the seraphs, Gothel revealed, admiring the statues along with his wife. It’s where their holy healing ability originates from.

Does King Siegfried have wings? Rosalind asked curiously.

Gothel let out a low chuckle. Not that I know of.

The servant opened the door to the dining room and ushered them inside. King Siegfried was already seated at the head of the table waiting for them with two extra place settings on either side of him.

King Siegfried caught sight of Gothel first and grinned. Ah, welcome, Gothel. Come in, come in. Siegfried’s gaze landed on Rosalind next, and his eyes widened. With a pink tinge rising to his cheeks, Siegfried abruptly stood up from his chair. Ah, welcome, Milady.

Your Majesty. Rosalind executed a low curtsey and kept her head lowered to hide her shocked expression. She hadn’t expected to affect the king of Sol Kingdom in such an obvious manner.

Siegfried walked over to the couple and came to a stop in front of Rosalind. Rise, and look at me. Please, Milady. Rosalind straightened and looked up to meet King Siegfried’s intent gaze. Siegfried reached out, took Rosalind’s hand, and placed a kiss on the back of it. It is an honor to make your acquaintance, Lady Rosalind.

The honor is all mine, Your Majesty, Rosalind said politely. And please, I’m no lady. Just call me Rosalind.

Siegfried reluctantly released Rosalind’s hand and turned to regard a stiff-looking Gothel. Wherever did you find such a rare beauty, Gothel? Siegfried asked with a twinkle in his blue eyes. I see now why you kept her a secret from me and from all your friends here at the castle.

We were childhood friends, Gothel explained shortly.

Yes. We grew up together, Rosalind added, fearing that the king would consider Gothel’s shortness rude. We’ve rarely been apart for more than a few hours.

How…fortuitous for you, Gothel, Siegfried said, a jealous note to his voice. You’re a very lucky man.

You’re too kind, Majesty, Gothel murmured.

Siegfried forced himself to take his eyes off the beautiful Rosalind. Forgive me. You both must be hungry after your long journey here from the village. Come, Milady. Siegfried took Rosalind’s arm in a gentlemanly fashion, and led her towards the head of the table. I had my chef prepare a very special dish for you, Rosalind. Siegfried pulled the chair to his right out, and motioned for Rosalind to take a seat.

When Rosalind sat upon the chair Siegfried scooted her chair in closer to the table. Siegfried took his seat at the head of the table while Gothel took a seat to Siegfried’s left. As soon as they were all seated a group of servants entered the dining room, and filled their empty crystal goblets with wine. Not long after, a second group of servants entered bearing trays with bowls of soup on them.

A bowl of soup was placed before each of them, and then the servants left the dining room. Siegfried and Gothel both watched with baited breath as Rosalind picked up her spoon and started to eat the soup.

At first, it didn’t appear as though anything unusual would happen so Gothel and Siegfried began to eat their own bowl of soup. Gothel noticed that the rampion’s leaves and flowers had been used in the soup.

It didn’t take Rosalind very long to finish the entire bowl of soup. She hadn’t realized how hungry she’d been. She let out a satisfied sigh when she was done, smiled, and patted her stomach. But then, Rosalind abruptly grimaced as a wave of pain washed over her and she cried out. Oh! Rosalind hunched over and clutched at her stomach where the pain was originating. It hurts!

Rosalind! Gothel exclaimed in concern.

Rosalind fainted and started to slide sideways out of her seat. Siegfried smoothly stood up from his seat at the table and swept Rosalind up into his arms before she could fall onto the floor.

What’s wrong with Rosalind? Gothel asked with an accusatory note to his voice. What happened to her?

Siegfried shot Gothel an impatient look. "What do you think happened? It must have worked. The rampion must have cured your wife of her infertility. The fact that she felt pain means that the rampion cured her insides. The reason she fainted is because the healing process must have used up all of her energy." Siegfried began to stalk out of the dining room with purposeful steps.

Hey! Gothel called after Siegfried as he ran to keep up. Where are you taking her?

Your wife needs rest, Siegfried said by way of explanation as he continued his way down the castle corridor. He came to a stop in front of a door. This is a guest bedroom, Siegfried explained as he opened the door and carried Rosalind inside.

Gothel followed Siegfried into the room and