An Unexpected Redemption: Book One of the Romalo Legacy Series

By Emily Hamsher

Prince Lucian of Brasov has been running from his family, from God, and even from himself. When he decides to take revenge upon his elder brother by stealing away his betrothed, Lucian is taken aback by the woman in his custody. Her pure heart and unabashed kindness thwarts his every cruel intention. Lucian finds himself hoping that she might hold the answers to heal his past, even though he knows she can never be his.

Every girl dreams of marrying her prince, so when Lady Adelina receives the unexpected announcement of her betrothal to the Prince of the realm, she takes it as a clear sign of the Lords will. When she is kidnapped by a band of ruffians and taken far from her home she quickly learns that the road to love is never as it seems. Though her captor portrays himself as a ruthless man, Adelina cant help but feel compassion for him and the pain she finds lurking beneath the dark shadows of his character.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WestBow Press
• Release date: May 8, 2018
• ISBN: 9781973627715

Emily Hamsher

Emily Hamsher is a woman after God’s own heart who loves to read and write. With a Master’s in Education, she is also an ordained minister and is pursuing a career in ministry as an associate pastor in Florida. At twenty-six years old, she is only beginning her author’s journey and seeks to open minds, inspire hearts, and create new worlds with her writing.

Book preview

PROLOGUE

A knock sounded on the large oak door, firm and unyielding, sending a cacophony of resonances through the hollow room.

"Intrà", his voice was a solid command to whomever stood opposite the grand portal.

Your majesty, the Queen would like to see you. The old servant bowed swiftly to him, motioning toward the outer room, and confirming that his wife was just outside its premise.

Bid her come, Bolan. He said to the man before him, turning his gaze toward the entryway.

As he watched his wife grace the room with her slender frame, he thought of the many years they had shared. Together they had reigned over this small kingdom in Brasov for almost twenty years now. Having met and married at a young age, King Andrei and Queen Melita knew the endurance and effort it took to keep a people united in both hard times as well as in joyous ones. With all the years they had known each other, the king never grew tired of gazing upon his wife’s sweet face or watching her gentle curves as she floated around a room.

When she grew closer he noticed the way her delicate shoulders rose and fell with each breath. By looking at them no one would know just how much weight those small shoulders could bear, just as they would not notice the small lines of distress that creased the skin laying between her dark green eyes, but he did. Waiting until the door was completely closed, the king met his wife’s gaze knowing whatever burdened her compassionate heart would soon be revealed.

Oh Andrei, what are we to do? The words had no sooner left her lips when she rounded the desk, loaded down with his papers that kept him ever at task, and handed him a missive that seemed to be the culprit of her distress.

My dear, what has troubled you?

Even as he spoke, a sinking feeling tore at his gut. Looking down at the small slip of parchment in his hand, his eyes skimmed the carefully penned words that he now knew described another episode of his youngest son Lucian. It was not the first time he had received news from the headmaster telling of his son’s misbehavior, but it seemed it would be the last as the school was sorrowfully inclined to dismiss him for the remainder of the year.

Well this is grave indeed! The term has only just begun, and Lucian is already in an irrevocable mess. I have come to the end of my patience for that boy. We will send for him at once and deal with this in a most final manner.

Before you decide anything, let us at least hear his end of the tale. Perhaps it is not what it seems.

The king chuckled in spite of his growing ill mood. My dear you would see the good in the most foul of circumstances, but mayhap you are correct.

Calling for Bolan, the king quickly instructed the servant to discern the current whereabouts of his son.

If the school has not already done so, make arrangements for a carriage to be sent for him.

Right away, Your Highness. As they watched the man exit, Queen Melita gently laid her hand atop his, knowing the reunion of father and son would not be a blissful occasion for either one.

30819.png

Prince Lucian grimaced at the sight in front of him. He hadn’t known the headmaster would find out, or that he would deal with him so harshly. He also hadn’t counted on the news traveling so quickly back home, but here lay the evidence of his punishment, the form of a royal carriage loaded with his things and ready to take him home. Home to the palace that held what he surmised would be very disapproving parents. Looking to Bolan, who must have come along to see him back safely, Prince Lucian thought he might have an ally, but in place of the servant’s usually light face and easy manners was an unquestionably fixed scowl that only affirmed the certain response that he was going to receive from the king.

Climbing into the wooden coach, whose soft interior was lined with fur and plush wool meant to spare him from the coming winter’s chill, Prince Lucian felt the injustice of the world closing in on him. Dressed as he was, in his dark velvet vest and fox skinned cloak, he knew he would be well ready for travel, but rather than take comfort in the knowing embrace of the carriage’s extra luxuries, he sat unyielding upon the seat, and allowed the sobering chill to feed his pensive mood.

It is all so unfair, he thought as Bolan joined him inside. I was only having a bit of fun; it’s not like I meant for the Latin teacher to find the skunk, and who was to know the man was highly adverse to the small fuzzy creature. Sighing to himself, Lucian turned to look out the window, wishing for all the world that there was someone who understood him.

The Grammar School of St. Peter Escon had been a formidable prison to Prince Lucian, so much so that he was now only glad to be free of its black charm. No one there had known what to do with a boy like him, even those he called friends only tolerated him half the time. Fixing his gaze, ahead he decidedly took in the familiar country side. The school he attended was separated from his home by nearly forty miles of woodlands, spanned out across mountains and valleys, but no matter the place the land seemed all the same, and every bit of it was beloved to him.

As the carriage stomped and sputtered along the rocky path that was narrowly cut through the thick forest, Prince Lucian felt as though the burly trees were stretching themselves up to soak in the last of the summer warmth. The falling leaves, colored by an array of brown, red, and orange hues, whispered about the soon coming winter, as they made their descent. Just as swiftly the copse of woodlands opened up to reveal a quaint meadow with lush grass dotting the rims of a crystal lake. So enraptured by its rustic beauty, Prince Lucian was brought back to the time he was a little boy, before he knew the King and Queen as his parents.

Born to a family of poverty he knew the taste of real need. His father left when he was just a babe and his mother was unable to care for herself let alone a small child, so as soon as he was able to wander about on his own Lucian took to exploring the forests. He used to think that if he dwelt upon the hope of finding real adventure among the marshes and meadows, one day his fantasies would become real. It was bad enough that he had to do the hunting and gardening all by himself, but Lucian also knew he couldn’t depend on his mother to take care of their cottage. He ended up doing that as well. Just after Lucian had turned six years, his mother began disappearing for days at a time. At first he hadn’t notice much at all, but then not even his childish fantasies could keep him from the truth. When one day he returned home early, his worst fears were realized; his mother had left him for good.

The dread that seeped into his innocent heart, when seeing all of her belongings missing from their shared chamber, brought a cruel and unwelcoming despair. He had waited for her to come back for him, hoping above all else that she wouldn’t have abandoned him, but even in the waiting he knew the truth. Pretending that mayhap, if he was in a more central place he may have a run in with his mother someday, he had taken himself off to the nearest township, stealing and begging for his food…until the day when the newly christened King of Brasov found him on the streets, and out of real compassion had brought him home to become a son and a prince.

Squirming a bit in his seat, Prince Lucian tried to shake such thoughts from his mind. Instead he drew to mind the image of their destination. He well remembered the first time he had stepped beyond the stone walls, and past the drawn gate and guard towers, when the king had brought him back after finding him that day. Walking beside His Majesty into the massive front hall of the esteemed citadel was like stepping in to a strange and foreign world far away from the dirty streets he had called home. The tapestries painted pictures of dark mysterious forests, urethral cherubs in resplendent gardens, and faraway places that made him want to step right into them. The walls of stone glistened, the tile floors sparkled, and the large open windows cast a heavenly iridescence upon every room, making the citadel itself feel like a sanctuary, a paradise for the wealthy, the noble, and now him.

The carriage jostled over the road’s many uneven places, pushing the curtains into his face and breaking him from his reverie. Their journey had many hours of travel left, and though they would not veer off the king’s road that was well protected by the many outposts dispersed throughout the region, Prince Lucian felt it best to rest now. For once they grew close, his energy would be best spent collecting himself for the meeting with his parents.

When at last they crossed the bridge, pulling up to the cascading steps that framed the front entrance, Bolan looked over at the young master beside him. Though the steadfast servant had done his part in chiding the boy along their journey he couldn’t help but soften his resolve to be angry, especially when he saw the frightened and lost look that came over his boyish features.

"Welcome home, domn." The boy startled at the servant’s voice and looked about himself frantically, as if searching for an escape from what they both knew would not be an ordinary homecoming.

Grabbing Lucian’s hand Bolan pressed him to be seated. Look at me, my lord. Waiting for their eyes to meet before continuing, Bolan said, No matter what you have done, you know your parent’s care for you deeply. Perhaps not all is as it seems, you must be strong and have courage in this, no?

Lucian nodded. Good lad. Now let’s go find the King and Queen, shall we?

The boy seemed to be reassured, because he nodded once more and after taking a breath, stepped from the carriage. As they entered the main foyer and began their long walk towards the grand hall, Prince Lucian’s steps seemed to falter.

Keep your head up, young sir. There that’s better.

Much unlike the boy’s dormitory where Prince Lucian had spent his first years of primary, the throne room was dressed in all things lavish. From its vaulted ceilings and oak buttresses to the crystal chandeliers and marble pillars, the space was overwhelming in its grandeur. The room was one of his favorites. With all its charm it also held a simple elegance that comforted him.

But today he felt none of its splendor. The very walls around him seemed to be closing in, while the shimmering light that poured in from the glass windows mocked his very existence. None too soon the herald announced their arrival and yet much sooner than Lucian was ready, he stood in front of his parents.

You may leave us now Bolan.

The servant hastily retreated from the room, leaving Lucian to face his uncertain future alone.

CHAPTER 1

Nearly a decade later

Looking out over the camp where his men were unloading their supplies, Lucian hardly resembled that poor and trembling boy, for he had grown into a man of harsh disposition, closed off to any who would show him pity. The last few months had been arduous, the days long and the nights stretching on for what seemed an eternity. With all their hard work and steady accomplishments, Lucian’s life still felt deprived of true purpose.

Sir, shall I be on first watch for the eve? His man Clive spoke from somewhere behind him, forcing his thoughts to their present situation.

Yes, you and Pierce will cover the first round.

His tone held its usual bark, making him glad his mood didn’t reveal itself. Turning to watch the men be about their work, Lucian saw Radu striding towards him. They had been friends a long while, meeting only a year after his parents had sent him abroad, hoping the distance would work to amend his shameful behavior. He had only been ten and four at the time, and in the care of Lord Barden. A man esteemed for reigning in unruly boys.

His parent’s rejection pained him more than he would ever admit. At the institution in southern Italy, he had been enrolled in swordsmanship lessons, the one task he had excelled at, where he had met the cunning Radu whose skills with a blade soon matched his own. The two had become fast friends, dreaming of ways that together they could conquer the world.

What is the black look that has haggard your brow?

Though Lucian may have been the better fighter of the two, none would be able to tell from sight alone, for Radu was a mountain of a man with a gruff beard that covered his face, making him look more bear than human.

I am in no mood for your jovial nature, Radu.

Don’t tell me you have tired of the road?

Shooting him a glare, Lucian moved to study the map he had lain out on a large boulder. Nonsense, I am but eager to be on to our next venture.

Lucian and Radu had been all over the continent, from the coast of south France and the shores of Tuscany, to the mountains of Bavaria and along the trade routes of Poland. Though their employment was almost always of the dishonorable sort, they amassed a band of men who had an equal thirst for wanton adventure and careless escapades. Their most recent line of work established them as carriers of priceless goods, trained guards for whatever needed to be transported cross-continent in stealth and secrecy, a trade that fit them most suitably. In effect they were no better than thieves and brigands, but the pay was well worth any trouble that may cross their path.

That doesn’t surprise me, you are always anxious to be gone again. Off to some foreign land and larger conquest. Tell me, have we anything lined up?

Lucian looked at the display using his finger to draw out the route they had just finished where they had been hired to collect silver deposits and deliver them to a Saxon Lord. Who was he to argue whether the treasures were ill-gained and belonging to another?

Nothing as of yet, but I believe there will be some prospects once we have returned and I am able to check with our usual contacts.

The two men parted ways and the night passed more swiftly than Lucian had thought it would. Soon he would be back to his own dacha, neatly tucked away in the Carpathian Mountains, and then perhaps he would have a small respite from the anxiousness crawling around inside of him.

Having risen early, Lucian was dressed and already heading to the stable yard. As had become habit, Lucian passed the first night in town with the other men, but with the break of the next day he collected his belongings and made the three mile trek to the estate that he shared with Radu, who often followed him at his own leisure.

The morning sun shone with its expected brilliance, covering the land in a coarse blanket of heat. Though the year was approaching its sixth month the spring had slipped away in the dark of night leaving the summer to stretch itself out like a lethargic cat awakening from its nap. Riding up to the front of the courtyard he was quickly met by the stable lad who saw to his horse. The steward was not far behind him, giving Lucian a most hearty welcome.

Your Highness, I see that you have returned home sooner than you expected, and are looking well.

Yes, Robard, our time abroad was not as engaging as I would have liked it to be. I have come back for a rather short visit.

Of course he would never disclose to this trusted servant of the monarchy his actual whereabouts over the last month, for Lucian had become quite skilled at keeping such things concealed. Even his family didn’t know what he was about, only that he traveled the continent frequently. His letters to them, though they were few and far between, were written saying he had taken up an interest in searching out rare swords. In truth he didn’t care if the tale was only partially real, as long as it satisfied his parents to know he was alive, and kept them from further meddling in his life.

And how was your trip this time Prince Lucian, Spain was it?

Not bothering to engage the man, Lucian mumbled his reply and took himself off to his chambers. Once alone, Lucian filled his time with menial tasks, feeling the need to keep his hands and mind busy. Within a few hours of being home, he had had his fill of leisure and paced about his room wishing for a task large enough to settle his growing discontentment. Moving to stand next to the large balcony window that centered the space just beyond the fireplace, Lucian looked out over the sweeping hills that singularly marked his Romanian homeland.

When he had first finished his schooling abroad, he had returned to his parent’s kingdom, hoping desperately that he had changed enough for them to finally accept him, but if anything, his time away had only caused the separation between them to grow greater. He knew his parents cared for him, but their expectations were too high and it was only a matter of time before he fell short.

Thinking back to the last week he had been in the castel, he remembered his brother Gabriel, so full of pride and condemnation. It’s all your fault, dear brother. The elder son’s words had dripped with cynicism. You ruined this family. Haven’t you a care for mother or father? They’ve had enough of your impish ways. Perhaps they will have pity on you this time. It’s not like you were born royalty.

His mother the Queen, bless her, had sought to keep the peace by offering Lucian a space of his own, a portion of property that was on the outer edge of their kingdom, a week’s journey from the citadel. A place that would keep him close, but also gain him freedom. It was his one source of comfort back then, now it just felt like another cage, one that could no longer contain his agitated soul. Lucian shoved away from the balcony, and the treacherous memories that lingered there.

Robard! Rather than wait for the robust servant to find him, Lucian took to the staircase, and shut himself within his office.

Where the blast is that man?

His impatience grew rapidly, his feet pacing across the cobblestone floor that was covered by a large Persian rug with gold tassels at each end. He didn’t know why, but lately he had been more restless than usual, as if peace was forever beyond his grasp.

You called for me your grace?

What insolence is this? Why have you kept me waiting so long?

Of course, Robard was used to his sire’s impatient manner and did not look to be at all startled.

"Scuze, Prince Lucian. How may I assist thee?"

Lucian scoffed. The post, Robard. I wish to see what news comes from abroad these past months, and make it quick man. I will not be so lenient in the future.

The servant must have heard the way his voice darkened, for he flew from the room only to return moments later with a stack of sealed missives.

Will that be all?

"Da."

Turning his back on the man to ensure he would bother him no further, Lucian looked to the pile in his hands. No doubt there would be one from his family. Lucian grimaced, his mouth filling with a bitter taste. Shuffling through the neat stack, his heart clenched when he recognized the insignia of the king’s ring stamped into the red wax.

Tossing aside the remaining letters, he broke open the royal seal.

CHAPTER 2

A month earlier.

Adelina?

The voice called to her from some distant place, beckoning for her to arise, to leave the place of sleepy dreams and sweet fantasy, a place she would much rather dwell in than be awakened at this early hour.

Are you still asleep my dear? A lady should never lay abed…

But should rise with the morning sun. Yes mother, I remember. Besides I wasn’t sleeping at all, just seeing how long you would dally ere you came for me.

Throwing her mother a playful grin, Adelina quickly drew herself from the plush mattress and swept towards the large chest of drawers with her crystal mirror atop. In the shiny reflection she began brushing out her dark amber tresses, before arranging them with a silver circlet to hold the thin veil that would cover the hair hanging to her waist. Staring into the dark green eyes that mirrored back, her thoughts turned to those blissful moments before she had been awakened.

She had dreamt of him again. The boy from the market. It was just like when she was a child on the streets of Brasov. She and her parents had been in town for one of the city’s harvest festivals. As a young girl, she loved any celebration that brought her within sight of the beautiful bastion laid gently in the very heart of the realm. With graceful archways, and spiraling towers, the longstanding castel was a sight to feed any lady’s romantic nature. This particular festival sought to bridge the gap between the high born and the common folk, gracing the townspeople with an open courtyard that boasted of music, food, and street performers.

Somehow among all the festivities, Adelina became separated from her parents. Taking her opportunity to explore the magic of the city all lit up under the harvest moon, she had traversed down a walkway, and straight into trouble. Hoping to avoid the small ring of boys who seemed up to no amount of good, she pressed herself against the far side of the street. Her efforts were to no avail, as one of them soon called out to her.

Look what we have here. Are you lost girly? Refusing to be cowed she lifted her chin.

I’m not lost. In truth I am on my way back to my parents, who are no doubt searching for me as we speak. Hoping her implied courage would deter them from further mischief, she turned to go back to the courtyard, but was stopped by another one of the boys.

Why are you leaving so soon? We just wanted to have some fun.

In a moment she was surrounded, pushed to the center of their little group. She felt her shawl slip from her shoulders and bent to pick it up. Too quickly it was snatched from her hands and the three of them began taunting her for it.

Try to catch it.

Come on, take it back from us.

Too slow, too slow.

Reaching for the shawl she tripped and fell to her knees. She felt tears begin to prick her eyes, as she pleaded for them to stop.

"Ce este asta?" Adelina lifted her