Restoring the Throne

By Mary S. Catlin

Absence makes the heart grow daring. . .

 

Each day, Rona's army becomes stronger, and war is on the horizon. Haighdlen is once again cloaked in scandal after the spy escapes and Gavin goes missing with the diary.

 

Enlisting the help of a charming stranger, Elise and her friends venture beyond the kingdom to re

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mary S. Catlin
• Release date: Nov 19, 2022
• ISBN: 9781736339732

Book preview

PROLOGUE

Haighdlen’s former Captain of the Guard was now a prisoner in the dungeon beneath the castle. 

After being accused of treason by the king himself, Brahm was locked away and the guards given strict orders to limit communications with him. The one on duty had yet to even make eye contact.      

Slouching against the cold steel bars, Brahm scoffed at his predicament. The irony of being imprisoned within one of the cells he once filled with his own prisoners was almost laughable.

These fools are so blindly loyal to Derek Laurille, they are incapable of forming any real opinions of their own.

Admittedly, their willingness to conform had served him well up until his arrest.

Everyone in this forsaken hole knows that I'm the reason this powerful army is feared.

 His life had been devoted to training the very soldiers who turned a cold shoulder to him. Now there was nothing to show for it.

And it was all because of her.

A stupid, meddlesome, red-headed brat.

Elise Laurille had swooped in with her companions to poison the minds of the royal family. By foiling his plans to aid Rona claim the throne, they not only succeeded in tarnishing his reputation, but that of his sister as well.   

Closing his eyes, Brahm recalled his final moments with Elise only hours before.

The soft delicate skin of her neck had been warm against his hand. He could still feel Elise’s racing pulse throbbing against his thumb. She was mere seconds from death.

If only I had acted quicker. . .

 The sudden sound of a woman's cry brought him back to reality. A sorrowful, tortured plea—normally music to his ears—lost all of its pleasantness when coming from his sister.  

Each of Ingrid's sobs twisted a knife further into Brahm’s otherwise hardened stomach.

He squeezed the bars until his knuckles turned white.

If you hurt her, I will end you, he promised whoever was escorting her closer. Just a few more steps and he'd have a new victim.

Brahm was robbed of any satisfaction as Ingrid's body was thrust to the cold stone floor less than twenty feet in front of him. Grunting from the impact, she crawled, sobbing, into the cell across from his. Fading footsteps indicated whoever brought her wasn’t going to be showing their face anytime soon.

The silent guard outside of Brahm’s cell joined her, prompting Ingrid to tug at his leg—begging for mercy—only to be kicked off.

Ingrid cowered in the corner of her cell, whimpering as she watched the key turn in the lock.

Brahm's blood boiled.

You're dead the next time you touch her! Do you understand?

Shut up.                                               

Oh, now you want to talk.

If they beat her—

Shut it, will you? You no longer have power here.

Brahm responded by spitting at the other man's feet.

The guard's sword was half unsheathed when an approaching man stopped him. Brahm recognized his friend, Sanders’s, voice.   

Sanders, my most trusted friend. It’s about time.

Based on the look of his uniform and assertive tone, Sanders had recently advanced in rank.

I'll take it from here, Sanders told the guard on duty.

I'm on strict orders not to leave this post until morning, sir.

Rather than argue, Sanders cocked his head back and slammed it against the other man’s. The guard's body fell with a heavy thud.

Brahm nodded appreciatively. 

You're getting better.

Learned from the best.

Well, hurry up then! Brahm hissed.

Sanders struggled to loosen the keys from the unconscious man's belt.

Brahm glanced in the direction of the main doors, still hidden by darkness. They only had a few minutes to make this work.

When the cell creaked open, allowing his escape, he placed a grateful hand upon his friend’s shoulder.

Your loyalty has not gone unnoticed.

He kept watch while Sanders unlocked Ingrid's cell.

Throwing her arms around her savior's neck, Ingrid nuzzled her tear-soaked face against his stubbled cheek.

When this is all over, she purred, I can thank you properly for old times' sake.

Brahm cleared his throat.

That's enough, Ingrid. We need to get going. I need a uniform from the office.

Why not take his? she asked, pointing to the body at their feet.

We can’t risk him regaining consciousness first. Help me move him, he ordered.

After locking the guard inside Brahm's cell, the three made their way towards the former captain's office. Knowing the main corridors would be monitored, Brahm took them through a secret passageway within the stone wall that opened just outside their destination. Knowing the castle better than anyone, he wasn't about to let a group of vigilante teenagers be his demise.

Once Sanders unlocked the door, Brahm was pleased to find the room untouched. He wasted no time throwing open the doors of his wardrobe for the extra uniform he kept there. After changing, he hid his face beneath a helmet. Removing any signs of his original rank, he turned towards a mirror on the wall before nodding with approval.

He collected several documents, as well as a hidden stash of money, from his desk. Crossing the room, he also retrieved a small velvet bag and a dagger from his safe.

Where is His Majesty now? he asked Sanders.

Several guards escorted the royal family to town for some evening entertainment.

Did the travelers join them?

All but one.

The red-head? He dared to hope it would be that easy.

I do not know, sir. My sources tell me one stayed behind with the doctor.

While a swift escape was necessary, Brahm knew that he wouldn’t get this opportunity again to possibly catch Elise on her own.

We will go there first then.

He tucked the velvet bag inside his uniform jacket with the documents and money before concealing his dagger inside his boot.

Sanders’s eyes widened in horror.

            But, sir! If you’re caught—

Brahm held up his hand to silence him before grabbing Ingrid’s arm.

You take her other side, he told Sanders. If anyone asks, she's been summoned for further questioning. We are simply her escorts. He instructed his sister to keep her mouth shut as he led them out into the corridor again.

Hearing their footsteps echoing around them, as well as Ingrid’s panicked shallow breaths in his ear, he attempted to get a grip on his nerves as he watched over his shoulder for any followers. They passed a total of six other guards along the way. Nothing appeared out of the ordinary. No one questioned their intentions until they reached the entrance. Two guards blocked their path as a third stood up from a nearby desk. Brahm recognized the latter as his lieutenant.

What’s all this then? the lieutenant challenged. This prisoner was already ordered back to her cell.

Sanders cleared his throat.

I was sent to retrieve her for further questioning.

By whom? I have received no news of this summons.

Brahm scowled at his friend.

Say something, you fool!

Sanders shifted from one foot to the other before clearing his throat. He tightened his hold on Ingrid’s arm.

An emergency council meeting has been called. The king entrusted the task to me personally. He wishes for the prisoner to be ready upon his return.

There was a long pause as the three were sized up.

Brahm was impressed by Sanders’s ability to think on his feet. He held his breath as the lieutenant looked between them before his gaze settled on the keys hanging from Sanders’s belt. Ingrid’s lip quivered while Brahm held his breath.

 Despite his obvious inner battle, the lieutenant tightened his jaw and nodded.

They had not taken two steps forward before the lieutenant cleared his throat.

How many men will you be requiring?

I think we can manage, sir, Sanders replied.

The lieutenant sneered with disapproval.

Standard protocol states that a minimum of six escorts be present for transfers and summons.

Brahm remained silent, knowing there were too many men present to do anything stupid. Sanders chanced a quick glance in his direction before stumbling his way through another excuse.

I commend your loyalty to protocol, Lieutenant. However, the king wishes to avoid any more gossip and scandals where this investigation is concerned. He requested a more discreet approach.

Then why didn’t he—

Best not to question His Majesty’s actions, Sanders warned, cutting the other gentleman off. You wouldn’t want to end up like the disgraced captain, would you?

A tense moment passed between them.

Brahm’s temper flared at the mention of his status, but they were so close to succeeding for him to throw it all away. He would let it slide. . .this time.

At long last, they were allowed to pass.

Feeling the lieutenant’s eyes burning a hole into his back, Brahm hastened their pace. Sanders knocked on the low ceiling until a guard opened a hidden door above them. One by one, they were helped out of the dungeon into the dark entryway of the tower.

Almost there.

The walk from the tower to the castle was longer than Brahm remembered. A layer of sweat formed along his brow while he braced himself for any further obstacles. He released the breath he had been holding when they approached the courtyard entrance to the castle. Nodding to the guard on duty, with Brahm’s identity still hidden, the three stepped through the French doors into the ballroom. In a matter of seconds, they crossed over the grand dance floor towards the main hall.

Brahm looked in both directions to see if the coast was clear. Only a handful of servants were present. If they were going to take any chances of reaching the doctor, now was it.

There’s no way we’re going to get away with this. Ingrid wept as her knees buckled beneath her. She slumped against her brother. We’re as good as dead.

Brahm growled as he and Sanders straightened her up again.

Woman, compose yourself at once! I did not bring you this far to hear your constant sniveling. Now, not another word.

His sister tightened her lips into a thin line to suppress another sob before being led towards the hall of guest rooms the doctor usually reserved for his visits.

After searching most of the usual rooms, Brahm felt a twinge of doubt. Perhaps he was mistaken. Maybe he had missed his opportunity.

 Then, as luck would have it, the doctor stepped out of the last door and jumped when he saw them.

I beg your pardon. You startled me there. He bowed before he stepped around them. If you’ll excuse me, I’m just off for more supplies.

Brahm waited for the doctor to be out of sight before approaching the door.

This was it.

His heart raced as he imagined what he’d find on the other side. Would Elise scream? Would she try to run? His hand twitched with anticipation as he slowly turned the knob.

The room was quiet when he stepped inside. The curtains were lowered, enveloping the room in darkness except three candles on the dresser. Brahm crept towards the bed in search of red hair.

Pulling back the blankets, he was disappointed to find Elise’s troublesome suitor instead. He grunted, threw the linens back down, and spun sharply on his heel. He had wasted precious time for nothing.

What was that?

Something caught his attention in the mirror across the room. Looking back down at the bed, he noticed something sticking out from under the young man. Brahm removed the blankets once again and leaned closer.

Well, well, well. What is this?

Carefully sliding it out from under Gavin, Brahm instantly recognized the same diary he tried to steal earlier.

My time has not been wasted after all. Rona will be most pleased.

Gavin rolled onto his side with a groan.

Brahm inspected the tattered purple cover. Nothing seemed particularly extraordinary about it, but the way Elise and the others had reacted, he knew better than to be fooled by its plain appearance. While nothing happened the last time, he still couldn’t fight the urge to open it again.

Just as he lifted the cover, he jumped when the door cracked open. Sanders poked his head inside. Seeing Brahm alone, he pulled Ingrid into the room with him before closing the door.

Everything all right, sir?

What’s taking so long? Ingrid asked.

Brahm held up the diary. Ingrid’s eyes widened as she clapped her hands together with a squeal. Brahm held a finger over his mouth.

Brother, you did it! You must get it to Queen Rona at once!

What is it? Sanders whispered.

Protection, Brahm replied. This will certainly keep us in Rona’s good graces. I was hoping to find the girl with it.

All three looked down at the bed.

Could he be worth something though? Ingrid asked. Surely any of them are better than nothing, right?

Brahm weighed his options.

Sir, we really must be going. The risk is greater now more than ever, Sanders reminded him.

Brahm tucked the diary into his uniform jacket.

Ingrid is right, he said, pulling out the velvet bag he had retrieved from his safe. Taking her hand, he tilted the bag, pouring a small amount of powder into her palm. Take this, Sister. Collect your daughter and go to Lockesbarrow. Await my instructions.

Alone? she asked. Can’t Sanders go with me?

We can’t risk his absence being noticed as well. Go to my cottage. I will join you as soon as I can.

Brahm didn’t want her traveling by herself, but she would be safer traveling to his cottage than to Rona’s castle with him.

Ingrid hesitated and glanced up at Sanders, who nodded for her to comply. Taking a deep breath, she tossed the powder up in the air before vanishing.

Will she be safe on her own? Sanders inquired. He coughed while swatting his hand at the remaining powder in the air. I would’ve gladly accompanied her. 

There is no need for that.

Stepping behind Sanders, Brahm reached down and removed the dagger from his boot.

Before Sanders could react, Brahm clasped his hand over the other man’s mouth and stabbed the dagger into his neck in one swift motion. As Sanders fell to the ground, gurgling, the former captain frowned.

I am sorry, old friend.

But I can’t risk any loose ends here.

Gavin rolled over with a stretch as overlapping shouts came from the hall demanding every room be checked. Various doors were opened and slammed shut. The search party was getting closer. Brahm stepped over Sanders’s twitching body towards the bed. He covered Gavin’s mouth but wasn’t quick enough to escape an elbow strike to the stomach. Despite Gavin’s flailing body, Brahm was able to pin him down while fumbling with the velvet bag.

A moment later, the door burst open as the lieutenant entered with four guards. Floating dust particles wafted through air as the room was searched. Only one lifeless body was found inside.

Brahm’s original guard, now freed from his cell, immediately began helping the lieutenant assess Sanders.

Find and alert His Majesty at once! ordered the lieutenant. The royal family is in danger!

Chapter 1

Gavin Striess jerked awake in complete darkness.

He became immediately aware that he was gagged with his hands and feet bound. Judging by the coarse texture, he assumed with rope. He bit down on the cloth between his teeth. Its thickness would stifle any attempts he made to call for help. After pulling against his restraints, he only managed to make them tighter. 

Taking a moment to gain his bearings, he deduced that he was also lying blindfolded on a moving surface with squeaky wheels. A cart, maybe? That would explain the sounds of hooves, not to mention the way his body continued to bounce from what felt like a bumpy road. Chills coursed through him despite the warm breeze against his skin.

Where am I? How did I get out of the castle?

To prevent himself from panicking, he tried to assess the situation. If he were going to escape, staying focused was key. He had seen documentaries about how to escape car trunks, but horse-drawn carts never seemed to make it on the news.

He’d have to attempt rolling off. Gavin turned his ankle in a circular motion to confirm that it had healed. He could likely survive the fall if he knew he wouldn’t be caught directly after. Despite being blindfolded, he closed his eyes. Taking a deep breath, he listened for any clues to help him. When that didn’t help, he spent the next several minutes visualizing his options, each one ending in excruciating pain. As he let his thoughts wander, he remembered the diary he had been guarding.    

Did it get stolen too? Maybe it’s on the cart right now.

He thought about Elise, Mitch, and Darcie.

Do they know I’m gone? Are they safe?

He had to get back to them, even if he didn’t manage to get the diary. Seeing his friends again was worth suffering any temporary injuries—though that didn’t mean he was looking forward to a possible broken bone or two. He swallowed as best he could around the gag, bracing his body for impact. Even if the cart didn’t have an open back, he hoped with enough force, he could break free anyway. Closing his eyes, he tucked his arms against his sides before hurling his body towards the other end of the cart.

After two or three rolls, however, the cart came to an abrupt stop and slammed him against the opposite end near the driver. He groaned as his shoulder was crushed from the impact.  

Gavin perked up at the sound of a gravelly chuckle.

Serves you right.

I know that voice. Who is that?

He wasn’t given time to figure it out as someone grabbed his foot and pulled. His back slid smoothly against the bed of the cart until his legs hung over the edge.

Stay still, the driver ordered.

Not trusting his chances of escaping at the present moment, Gavin had no choice but to comply with the command. He felt a strong hand grip him around one of his ankles before hearing the sound of a knife slicing through the ropes.

Why is he freeing me? This makes no sense.

 Confused, he lay paralyzed with fear. When his feet were released, he heard more footsteps approaching.

Strong hands jerked at his collar, forcing him to stand. Gavin wobbled on the spot before being made to walk forwards in darkness.

The gruff voice barked orders for the horse to be taken care of. The animal whinnied as it was led away. As the squeaking wheel on the cart also faded, Gavin felt a renewed sense of panic rise within him.  

The kidnapper dragged him by his shirt along an uneven path. Painful rocks crunched beneath Gavin’s bare feet, causing him to stumble blindly multiple times. His groans and curses were ignored.

He could mentally picture his boots positioned neatly under the bed where the doctor had been treating him back at the castle. The memory sent more thoughts circulating through his mind about his friends’ whereabouts.

Had something happened when they went to the town? Were they hurt?

He thought of Elise.

If anything happens to her. . .

Gavin tripped as the ground sloped downward. Hearing the creaking sound of a metal gate opening sent his heart hammering within his chest.

Is this some kind of prison?

The soaked gag caused drool to build up at the corners of his mouth until he couldn’t help but cough. The stranger smacked him on the back, too close to his injured shoulder. Gavin winced.

Straighten up.

Gavin did his best to comply. His wrists were rubbed raw from his previous attempts to pull free. His palms were freshly coated with new sweat. The rocks, now smaller and sharper, cut into his feet. He tried slowing down his breathing to hear better. Several deep voices talked nearby. Horses whinnied in the distance. The air smelled damp.

Well, well, well, said a voice a few feet away. I’ve seen everything now. Word’s been around this morning that you were caught. Didn’t think you’d be showing up here again. Come to get a beating from Rona herself, have you?

Several other men laughed.

Is that Brahm?

It couldn’t be. He had been arrested.

Why have you come back? a second voice asked.

I have something for Her Majesty, came the reply as the same hand clapped against Gavin’s shoulder, making him groan.

Gavin froze, knowing he was being sized up.

Her Majesty is not expecting any new recruits. Especially a weakling such as this. You’d best be on your way.

Gavin’s blood boiled. Had his hands not been tied together, he would’ve already connected his fist with both of their jaws.

He’s anything but weak. I believe she will make an exception, said his kidnapper. I have some useful information for her as well. When no reply came, he growled. You don’t want to make an enemy of me. Open the gate.

The threat proved successful as the gate creaked open in front of them. Gavin was ushered forward by his collar once more. There was no doubt in his mind now. It was Brahm. He tried to wrap his head around how this could have happened.

There’s no way Derek would’ve freed him. Not after everything he’s done. How did he get away?

This man was dangerous. Gavin would have to tread carefully if he were going to have a chance of getting back to the others.

Another set of doors closed behind them. Gavin immediately felt that the air was colder here. It was also too quiet. 

He shivered, making the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.

Where is he taking me? Are we even still in Haighdlen? Where is the diary?

A second set of doors were opened for them. Brahm’s footsteps now echoed against a hard floor. Gavin was thankful for the cool surface against his bare feet. The sound of swords unsheathing made him and Brahm stop dead in their tracks.

Hushed whispers spread throughout the room. Gavin angled his head to catch what they were saying.

Who is that? someone asked.

Disgraceful, replied another.

Her Majesty will not be pleased.

The blindfold was suddenly ripped off of Gavin’s face, causing him to turn away from the harsh light. When his eyes finally stopped burning, he opened them one at a time and blinked until they adjusted to the brightness of the room. Brahm nudged the back of his knees until they buckled so that Gavin now sat in a kneeling position on the floor. Brahm followed with his own bow before motioning for Gavin to turn his attention to the opposite end of the room.

They were in a massive throne room that rivaled Haighdlen’s in architectural beauty. Four oversized crystal chandeliers hung from the tall cove ceiling. Warm sunlight poured in through eight wall-length windows that lined the room on either side. White marble beams positioned between each window matched the smooth floor.

Gavin could now see the crowd of well-dressed people looking at him. Several ladies were speaking behind their fans. All heads turned towards the center of the room where an elegant woman sat upon a lushly decorated throne.

I have come with a gift for Her Majesty, Brahm called out above the murmurs.

All eyes turned towards the woman who made no effort to move from her slouched position.

How dare you interrupt me while I’m holding court? she scolded Brahm. I should have you removed and whipped. She regarded the pair of them with a lack of interest. Or perhaps whipped here. We could use the amusement to liven up this dull place. Forced laughter trickled throughout the gathered group. She rolled her eyes, growing irritable at Brahm’s lack of response. Why are you here? I certainly haven’t summoned you.

I have brought a gift for you, Majesty, along with news, Brahm said. If he bowed any further, his nose would’ve touched the floor. He didn’t dare make eye contact. The room grew silent, awaiting her reaction, which put Gavin on edge.

At last, she stood. The courtiers parted to clear her path, and from his kneeled position, Gavin could properly see her for the first time. His initial thought was how beautiful she looked.

Her long sleeved, white-laced gown draped from her shoulders, accentuating her curves. A satin train dragged along the marbled floor. Her jet-black hair was embellished with so many jewels that, when hit with the sunlight, gave her the appearance of having a halo. Judging by the growing lump in his throat, Gavin knew this woman was anything but angelic.

What could be so important that you felt the need to interrupt my court? she asked Brahm.

I was discovered—er, imprisoned— but managed to bring him for you as well as swipe this little gem during my escape. Brahm removed the diary from a pocket inside of his coat. For you, my queen.

Gavin’s body straightened with a jerk. Choking on the gag, he pulled against his restraints. Feeling desperate, he hobbled on both knees to get closer.

The pitiful display caused Brahm and the queen to turn their attention to him. Brahm snatched a handful of Gavin’s hair, forcing his face down again.

Bow before Queen Rona!

This is Rona?

Rona shook her head, clicking her tongue.

Be nice to him, Thaddy.

Thaddy?

Brahm stiffened. Instead of responding, he handed the book to Rona, who peered down at Gavin once again. With a wave of her hand, the gag vanished from his mouth along with the ropes around his wrists. Massaging his jaw, he looked up at her.

You’re Rona?

"Queen Rona, you insolent boy!" Brahm spat.

 Placing a finger under Gavin’s chin, she had him stand. Rona studied him for a moment before she smiled with a hint of mischief behind her dark indigo eyes.

You almost seem disappointed, she said, chuckling. When she spoke to Brahm again, her gaze never left Gavin’s face. Yes, I think he will do nicely, Thaddy. Thank you.

Brahm grimaced.

If you please, Your Highness. I’d prefer my surname be used when we’re in less intimate settings.

She ignored his request, turning her attention instead to the diary.

"Now, what is so special about