In Unknown Ways: Unknown, #1

By Ksenia Maseeva

Crylon is a kingdom full of contrasts - here shadows and light come into union. Forced to marry the enemy to her country, the newly crowned queen soon discovers how truthful it is. Caught in the middle of political intrigues and betrayals, Alison realises the bright side of leaning into the shadows. And, with old and new friends, tries to outrun destiny and keep herself from going insane.

Story full of adventures and mystery, power of knowledge and admitting the darkness we all have within us.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Ksenia Maseeva
• Release date: Mar 21, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215038338

Ksenia Maseeva

Ksenia Maseeva is an upcoming author from Moscow, Russia. Born in 2000, the young author has a passion for storytelling that is reflected in her debut book "In Unknown Ways," an exciting fantasy novel that showcases her vivid imagination and storytelling abilities.   After completing her Bachelor's degree in PR & Advertising in 2022, Ksenia has decided to follow her passion for writing and creativity. She is currently working on multiple projects, including writing fanfiction and editing fantasy music videos. Ksenia has also ventured into the realm of ASMR and has a YouTube channel that combines her love of storytelling and soothing voice.   With her passion and dedication, Ksenia's journey as an author is just beginning, and her unique perspective will undoubtedly guide her to great success. Her versatility and willingness to explore new creative mediums is awe-inspiring, and we can't wait to see where her imagination takes her next.

Book preview

Chapter One.

Six, five, four, three , two... steps till the end of the room. It was hard to focus on the task ahead, so she walked around a bit, preparing for the fast coming departure. If someone said that she would leave Theria a few years ago, she would consider them crazy and never talk to them again. Even though she loved to imagine different worlds and have lovely quick trips to nearby villages, she never wanted to leave. A new place will always be a stranger’s home and being around foreign people will be uncomfortable, no matter how royal they were.

Do you want me to prepare a bath for you, Allie? The man stood in the entrance, watching her pacing around and trying to hide a fond smile.

Alison stopped, looking up. Finally, there was Benoit, who could weigh all of their options without being too anxious.

Do you think I should stay here with my father? she asked, smiling shyly at him. His advice always helped, showing how wise he actually was, even though people often noticed his kindness or joyful nature.

I know I can tell you my opinion, but it’s your choice. Would this marriage bring peace to our lands? Probably. Will it make you happy? I don’t know. There are billions of possibilities, but it’s your choice. Not mine, he said, kindly pointing at her doubts.

The girl waited for him to step into the room, slowly coming closer. There was always a decision that should be made apart from her own personal interests. The fate of the kingdom was way more important than the life of one person, no matter how royal they were.

I want to stay. Live up to see the rise of Theria, to see the beauty of its spring, and the lovely sound of the children playing in the garden, she whispered. But I also know nothing of this will happen if I don’t go to Crylon to marry a man.

He stood silently, looking at her with regret and sorrow. They could not end the war without sacrificing their lives. After all, who were they but the tiny specks in time?

So you decided then, Brice commented, walking to the bathroom. In that case, we need to decide what to pack.

Alison laughed, thinking about the enormous amount of clothes she owned. I don’t think we have enough space to bring everything I want.

They were allowed to travel by one big carriage that will be protected by both Therian and Crylonian guards on their way to Underhall. The war didn’t end yet, and it’ll take time for news to reach every battlefield on their grounds.

I think they have an excellent tailor to sew you more dresses, the man joked, filling up the bath for her. I am worried they won’t have any baths. It’ll be a catastrophe for you.

Of course, Bee. I won’t survive without a good bath and soap. She nodded, following his movements. Hands picked up jars and bottles, bars of soap, and brushes to place them on the table. He worked slowly, sleeves rolled up, and hair getting curlier with all the steam.

All done. Do you need my help? Benoit asked, turning around and pointing at her dress.

Alison knew she should have asked him to leave, calling for maidens to help her. Crylonian ladies were not supposed to undress in front of the men unless they were married, but their rules were much simpler. And who was she to deny the comfort of the familiar face when she needed it the most?

I can leave and call for maidens, he said, always respectful of her wishes.

She looked at him, shaking her head. The boy moved closer and started undoing her hair, taking little pins out and letting black locks fall. Comfortable silence filled the room, reminding her of all the time they spent together. With years of friendship, there was no need to talk.

When her hair was finished, he knelt and took her shoes off, unfitting little ribbons wrapped around her ankles. Dark green earrings were put down one by one, followed by rings and necklaces.

Could you stand up? Benoit asked, watching her take a little breath in. The movement made her inhale the delicate scent of home - peonies and lavender, mixed with the warmed air from outside.

You should be the helper. Ladies in Underhall would be excited! She giggled, waiting for him to unwrap her dress.

I may as well be at your side and excite Your Royal Highness, he joked, concentrating on tiny ribbons on her back, trying to undo them without damage.

I will be flattered if you stay. Imagine how envious those women would be. I’ll take you all to myself and won’t share, Alison answered, stepping out of the dress, leaving an emerald fabric on the floor.

Benoit laughed, even though it sounded a little forced. His hands were still gentle while guiding her into the bath. Do you think they will call you Your Majesty? Queen Alison, or you’ll be a Princess?

I may stay the Princess. She shrugged, closing her eyes in the comfort of warm water. Never thought of it, to be honest. I have no clue what they call each other there.

I should have asked, she thought. Or wait till the day of their arrival.

It wasn’t far, anyway.

The carriage moved slowly. Filled with enormous amounts of baggage, two passengers, and guards, it had no chance to speed up. It was unfortunate, but it gave them time to look at nature.

Dark clouds surrounded the forest, sturdy oaks and high pines intertwined with spruces. With the rain getting stronger, Alison wished to have a fireplace to warm the carriage. And what a wonderful fireplace it could be! Blacksmiths will decorate them with dark figures on the chimney, or engrave little men on the inside.

I can hear you thinking from here. Do you need anything? We may stop in the closest village to rest, Benoit offered, pulling his jacket closer to the body.

They had lunch a while ago and another stop will prolong the trip even more. No, it’s alright. Alison shrugged. It’s strange outside, feels like the darkest hour of the night, especially with the moonless sky.

I wanted to compare it to the end of times, but moonless nights seem less terrifying. Even though it’s still not long past noon.

She laughed, closing the curtains. Maybe we chose the worst day to travel.

I doubt that. Crylon is always like that. Dull and rainy with little to none sunny days, Benoit replied, still looking at the endless clouds. I already miss Therian heat.

Never thought you’d say that! I’m starting to think the air here does wonders. Alison smiled, raising an eyebrow.

The magical air of Crylon. Dark and gloomy, he said, putting an arm around the girl. There’s one way to find out.

They arrived days later, the sun in the sky looking almost surreal. The main yard of the Underhall castle was full of people that were standing close to the stone walls that sparkled with the light, hidden by bright red flags. The crowd stood silently, patiently waiting for their carriage to stop. Only crows were busy cawing from the nearest tower.

It was hard to concentrate on one thing. Everything looked so different and similar at the same time. People started moving, paying respect to the royal members that slowly came out of the building. Alison looked around, breath hitching, as more men appeared in the yard.

Before she could start overthinking, Benoit opened the door, offering the hand to help her out. Don’t look so scared. Remember, first impression is very important. Smile, or at least try to. People are watching, he whispered, pulling a small smile of his own.

Despite the advice, it was hard to look strong. Everyone’s eyes were focused on her, considering and judging, searching for the smallest flaw. Trying, the girl squared her shoulders, looking up to go, only to be stopped by the man she was familiar with.

It’s nice to see you here, Your Highness. I hope your trip was good, he said, looking straight into her eyes.

She sighed, feeling uncomfortable. It was long, rainy, and definitely less pleasant than I thought it would be, she answered, giving him her hand as tradition required.

He smiled, nodding slightly. My name is Dong Orman. Thought it’d be appropriate to say my name to you. After all, the knowledge of someone’s name can give you power.

Indeed, it may, Alison agreed, taking a step back. Should we go inside? Orman bowed, arms folded behind his back, and walked inside, silently offering them to follow.

The outside of the castle was nothing compared to its interior - the Throne Hall was decorated with roses; a high ceiling highlighted with huge metal chandeliers, tables ready for guests. The room was lit up by hundreds of candles. But the focus was on the throne itself that stood empty of its owner.

Alison looked around to find Benoit, but he was already standing in the furthest corner, alongside with other servants. Taking a breath in, she walked to the centre of the hall, patiently waiting for the King to appear.

It didn’t take long. The only information father gave her was the King’s age and name, connected to status and general achievements. She wondered about him, spent days thinking about differences in their ages and cultures, asking every person she could reach. Her father told her there was nothing to worry about. The man should be wiser, more experienced than a wife. Twelve years of difference was enough to ensure that.

The slow footsteps and nervousness on people’s faces made Alison look up. The first thing she noticed was the scarlet mantel on his shoulders and the iron crown on his head. He was looking at her with the slightly raised chin, curious and focused. She tried to hold still, looking at his eyes, which reminded her of the sky on their road here. Grey and dead.

What a lovely sight you are, Princess, he muttered, smirking. You may as well come closer. We should properly introduce ourselves to each other.

The King’s hand was outstretched towards her, leaving no choice but to take it. His palms were shockingly cold, freezing her to the bone, and when the metal of their rings clanged, the girl made the reverence, not letting go.

Whispers surrounded the couple, rising with each second and echoing through her mind. People were talking of her appearance and manners, showing their satisfaction or disgust in dozens of different ways. Alison felt like an animal being brought to the light, judged by the buyers in front of the owner. Even if her father sold her off, she was still a human.

I agree with Orman. You are exquisite, the King muttered, slowly settling on the throne, leaving her standing in front of him. I don’t think it is necessary, but my name is Edward Shillingford. You can call me Edward.

Alison Greenwoods, she said, keeping her tone stone-cold as not to show how uncomfortable the situation made her feel. Her eyes kept searching for something in his.

Not missing a second, Edward turned his head to Orman, whispering an order. Immediately, the man took a step back and exited the hall.

I asked Orman to prepare a castle for the wedding. No need to wait, don’t you think? We only prolong the ineffable, he said, smiling softly. You must be tired from the road. There are rooms ready for you. Take some time to rest.

The stiff wind entered the hall, making her shiver. Two young-looking girls stood out from the crowd and asked Alison to follow them. The people moved out of her way, making it easy to exit the room. The poorly lit walls of the corridors were decorated with red fabrics, slightly reminding her of those in the Throne Hall. It was cold, almost unnaturally freezing for the midst of summer. The inability to hold any warmth within seemed to be the problem. The maids led her through the wing, opening the door to the room in front of her. It wasn’t big or small, just the right amount of space for her to live in. The bed was yet again decorated with dark wood, and burgundy red fabrics; pillows draped onto it in the particular order.

One maid stood near her, waiting. Should we prepare you for the bed, or the man you came with will help you? she asked, looking at her with furrowed brows.

Thank you for the suggestion, but I think I’ll wait for him here, Alison muttered, carefully sitting down on the duvet. Her dress was still dusty from the road, but it was nothing compared to her well-being.

The girl waited a few minutes before the maids left her alone. She sat on the bed and took a careful look at the room, where tables full of different lids and plates were waiting to be used. Green-coloured curtains reminded her of the forest she could see from her old-room windows, but they clashed with the red of her bedding.

Shall I knock before I enter? Benoit asked, making her jump out of fear. He laughed, holding on to the servants’ door jar.

She sighed, shaking her head. I don’t think it is necessary, but close the door, please.

He was worried, but let it slide, closing the door and moving towards the bed.

Well, at least they didn’t ask you to call him His Majesty, he offered as a joke and sat on the mattress.

Alison yawned, rubbing her eyes and noticing the dirt on her knuckles. Prepare me for bed, please, she said, looking him in the eyes.

Without further question, Benoit searched the area for any door that could lead to the bathroom. After a minute, he found the room with the bath that seemed gigantic for it. But it wasn’t important. Alison tried not to fall asleep on her bed and Benoit was busy filling the bath using lids from the bedroom table, pouring the water into the tub, making the girl think how similar and yet different things were now. She smiled, letting him pull the dress off her body. The warm water embraced her, lulling to sleep.

My father said it wouldn’t be so hard to fall in love with the King after a while. Alison sighed, trying not to fall asleep again. Benoit woke her up a few times already, not wanting her to drown in the tub. But something inside keeps telling me it won’t happen, she tried to form the sentence but couldn’t concentrate on the words while Benoit’s hand removed oils from her hair.

For a man his age, he looks mature. Or maybe the crown, beard, and entire kingdom in your hands will do it to you, Benoit commented, nuzzling the soap into her hair.

Who wants to marry after knowing a person for less than an hour? Alison answered, watching the water slowly fall back into the tub.

Apparently someone who agreed to marry a girl as part of the deal. Both kingdoms needed a way out of the war. He shrugged, lowering his voice. And he earned, as he said, an exquisite wife.

She laughed, tilting her head up, carelessly falling into the water, regretting the movement immediately.

Benoit continued, pulling her out of the water. The entire kingdom is in his hands and still he asks you to take a bath with some barbaric oils, he joked, carefully wrapping a nightgown around her body.

They gave me three days to prepare for the wedding and realise how to live here. If I find how to do the rest, I can survive using those oils.

I’ll help you, he whispered, standing close enough to wrap his arms around her. While you shine in the centre, I’ll hear the voices of those behind me.

That’s an excellent idea. It is odd to be so far away from you all the time. Being in the centre always means being looked at, and people here look at me as if I were an animal ready to be bought.

Cannot disagree with you. He nodded, rubbing his eyes.

Alison noticed, looking at him with concern. While she was busy talking about her own problems, they completely forgot how tired he was. By the way, where is your room? In the darkest corner of the castle, surrounded by webs and spiders? she wondered, imagining how far away they were.

You know what? The boy chuckled. You may be right! They said they would clean the place for me. Apparently, they didn’t think you would bring someone with you.

She nodded as the maid entered the room. The girl offered Benoit a key, asking him to follow her.

Alison laughed, loving the timing of her arrival. Don’t lose your mind! Cute girls can do that to you, she whispered to him, holding the boy close to her, not wanting to end the embrace.

I promise you I won’t. After all, I need to look after my Majesty, Benoit whispered back, not wanting to let go of her either. The cough from the maid interrupted them and Benoit went outside, wishing her a good night.

Alison, left alone in the room, desperately tried to fall asleep. But dreams didn’t come to her, an unfamiliar place making her skin crawl. The sound of the lonely crow didn’t help either.

Chapter Two.

The sun shone through the windows, waking her up with its brightness. Alison tried to hide beneath the blanket but was interrupted by someone knocking at the door. Beds were heavenly soft, and standing up to welcome someone seemed difficult and unnecessary. Instead, the girl closed her eyes, falling into the dream state, imagining the beautiful garden full of blossoming trees and flowers. Birds were singing their songs on the thin branches. The trees were covered with pink and soft white petals falling to the grass beneath her feet. Children ran around the birdbath and wooden benches stood in the heart of her garden. It was a peaceful and ethereal place for the perfect day somewhere in the middle of her hometown.

It took her a few minutes to fall back to sleep, but the knock interrupted her dreams again, followed by Benoit walking in through the small door beside her bed.

I asked maids to let you sleep for a few minutes more, he commented, sitting down on the corner of her bed. I see you were busy fantasising, Your Future Majesty. Rise and shine to meet a new home of yours!

Alison hid behind the pillow, smiling. Maybe I can stay here? The sun shines through the windows, so I get all the warmth I need.

And even though it was a cute sight, Benoit needed to wake her up. Should I tell your tailor that is waiting for you in the South Wing that you won’t come today? The man would be so upset, Allie. Be merciful.

Fine, she answered, giving her friend a hand for him to take. He pushed her into a sitting position and walked towards the bedside table.

Mademoiselle from the kitchen is waiting for my notice to serve the table too, he continued, picking up the hairbrush.

What do they cook here? Something greasy with lots of meat? She winced.

They’ll cook whatever you want. We can give them recipes from home and they’ll learn with time.

Alison nodded, waiting patiently for Benoit to brush her hair and braid them into something more comfortable than usual Crylonian hairstyles. I dreamed of Therian gardens. With little benches and birds, she said, feeling her eyes close.

What birds did you dream of? Little tiny ones or enormous birds they use for a hunt? he asked, picking up the earrings for her to wear. Beautiful green stones were glistening in the sun. Or wait, there was a cat?

Alison looked at him and started giggling. The only birds they’ve seen in Crylon were arrogant crows and they definitely weren’t a pretty sight. She missed little birds from her garden, their singing waking her up every morning.

Cats or not, it was silent. Until you knocked at this peculiar door.

The door was peculiar indeed. The frame was smaller than a girl’s height, made of dark wood with a paw-shaped handle. It definitely was supposed to be an entrance for servants and maids, so guests wouldn’t notice their arrival. But it was so heavily decorated that it was hard to miss.

I miss the fireplaces in Pivoineville. They were made individually, with fewer stones and more decor in them. Here they remind me of furnaces. Benoit sighed, reminding her how much he liked pretty things and practical sometimes didn’t seem important enough. His enthusiasm inspired Allie to view the world a little differently, too.

They might allow us to redecorate the castle. With time. Bring more Theria to Crylon.

Imagine the King’s face when he’ll walk into the room to see white stones with greenery all over them. It’ll be a catastrophe! he joked, mocking Edward’s shock.

We can start with my room. Replace the door or this red-coloured bedding. I swear one day this colour will give me headaches.

I wouldn’t be surprised. Benoit shrugged, moving to open the larger door for her to exit. They needed to move on with their day and plan the wedding. Luckily, she had options to choose from.

The South Wing of the castle slightly differed from others. Stairs and corridors were wider, bringing a more airy feeling to the space. The tailor’s workshop opposed the large archways that opened the magnificent town view. Big staircases led to Oakenfair and were interlaced with giant oaks and trees.

They found a tailor at his table, scribbling some numbers. He was dressed in a red cape with a white ornament on lapels, hair hidden beneath the wrap around his head. They introduced themselves and started working, preparing the dress for the celebration.

Razin Maksim, or Maksim, like he asked her to call him, let Alison decide the fabrics and shades, while casually bouncing her every suggestion to call her by the first name. Benoit giggled quietly, trying not to get too much attention.

Your Majesty, you can choose between these fabrics. They are pretty similar in material but different in undertones, as you can see.

At the nearest table, they found a variety of silk and velvet textiles in the deep jewel colours - blue, red, green and even yellow, laid out carefully for her to see. Known for her colour taste, Allie chose an emerald one, smiling at its softness.

She knew that the traditional choice for a Crylonian wedding was always red, but the tailor noticed that a fresh view of the bride’s dress was always welcomed. The groom’s tunic will need to be changed, too.

Is it even possible? I considered the King would give orders in which way a wedding should go, she asked Maksim, who was already busy measuring her.

His Majesty suggested changing the theme if you wanted to. To bring you more comfort during the difficult transition period of your life.

How nice of him, she mumbled, trying to suppress disagreement behind the cough.

The tailor sighed, noticing her mood. It’s actually nice to dress someone foreign. Ladies of the castle are not that original in their style.

Alison nodded and opened her mouth to answer, but was distracted by the sudden glimpse of sunlight that reached her eyes. Sunbeams blinded her for a moment, disappearing just as suddenly as they appeared.

They are old-fashioned, don’t you think? Benoit answered instead, bringing her back to reality. A little more colours and layers to their dresses and gowns and it will look different from person to person.

Alison blinked, looking around to see where the light came from. The curtains were shut tight, and the door was closed. The only source of light in the room were candles, too small for sunbeams.

Or they could try to at least forget about red fabric. But who am I to judge, right? Maksim laughed, adding a few more numbers to his papers.

Giving up, Alison looked up at the big mirror that was placed in the gorgeous, dark wood frame with flowers and birds, unusual for the castle. She saw herself, tired and dishevelled, but not noticeable to an untrained eye. Blue eyes were highlighted with dark circles beneath, and the slight shakiness of her hands made her look sick. Perhaps the road trip was too harsh on her.

Benoit walked closer, taking her attention away from the reflection. Should I ask to serve the table? You look like you could use a meal, he asked.

Slightly nodding to him, Alison turned around, waiting for the tailor to finish measuring. He nodded and left the room. The silence filled the workshop, interrupted by the soft scribbling of the pencil.

This young man is very educated to only be a servant, isn’t he? Maksim asked, looking at her with a smile on his face. She looked up at him, noticing how tall he was.

He is. We studied together. Adults could not separate us when we were younger. So what I’ve learned, he learned. And I must admit, he remembered it more than me. Alison smiled at the memories.

He is lucky to have you, Your Majesty. Not everyone wants to have friends from lower ranks and let them study together, Maksim said. His blonde hair emerged from the wrap, messy from constant movements. He sighed, opening one of his drawers to grab the book. "It’s what they let servants, maids and tailors learn about Crylon and its culture. Rise of Light is mainly the story about the kingdom's Saints and history. I think you need to read it."

Thank you, she answered, taking the volume in her hands. It looked old, the cover gilded with gold. Is it full of history or legends?

Maksim shrugged, looking at the book. Who knows? Sometimes tales tell more about the past than any historical books.

Alison nodded, placing it on the nearest table. I might as well show it to Benoit. He will enjoy it as much as I do.

You’re very kind, Your Majesty. Not everyone will do as much as you do to your friends, he commented, tracing the letters on the cover.

Not everyone, she thought. But how could she not, when the young boy was always so interested in the little pieces of knowledge teachers provided her with? Her father was kind enough to let him stay, giving a girl an opportunity to have a loyal friend. Maybe it was different in Crylon. Royals dressed in expensive clothes, hidden behind thick walls from their subjects. Even the drawbridges were pulled up right after their arrival. The kingdom with powerful protection would not save its people but the crown and their closest ones. What a waste.

Every wing of the castle had its dining room. Guests could enjoy their meals alone, going down to meet other people from time to time. Her brunch was served in the same wing, in the company of cooks, Benoit and birds outside. Enormous windows allowed to see the trees that were contrasting in their greenery with grey clouds above. The weather worsened while they were in the workshop.

The light didn’t reflect from the chandelier, but it still was outstanding with lovely metal pieces hanging from the base and forming flower ornaments. But what truly amazed the girl was the table itself, served with everything she loved to eat for breakfast or lunch. Not quite known for eating so late, she found it enjoyable to mix two courses of meal in one.

Having only one chair at the table and one plate served to her was unusual. Back in the day, she had Benoit sitting beside her, eating, quietly arguing about every topic there was. But in Crylon, royals ate from a different table than others.

Turning around, Alison found Benoit talking with a lady, her hair covered beneath the blue fabric. The woman looked calm, her eyes observing her reactions to every meal.

I know there might be complications with recipes you brought with you, but we tried our hardest to replicate them. Could you tell us what was good and what wasn’t? She walked out through the small door, not waiting for an answer.

Benoit came closer to her, picking up the berry from her plate. I must admit, it is hard to determine should we be flustered that everyone here is trying to make your living conditions better or worried that they think someone will kill them because of the wrong meal, he noticed.

I don’t know. Everything is new to them too. We changed locations but brought strange traditions with us. And they all try their hardest. She sighed, picking up a berry too. Why don’t you sit here with me, eat some food and tell me the news?

I wish I could but servants do not eat with a higher class here. If someone notices, I could end up in trouble.

What a ridiculous set of rules! You’re a friend.

You’re my friend too. But we still can’t, he whispered.

And maybe it was the slight change in his pitch when he talked about it or the determined set of his shoulders, but she knew the rapid changes