Birth of Darkness A Twisted Fairytale

By D. Raye

What if women performing magic was against the law and punishable by death? What if you were a female born with the gift? Francine Vidmar finds her world changing right before her very eyes when an unthinkable curse is unleashed upon the kingdom.

Secrets, magical creatures, sorcery, betrayals, and a sinful affair with the man she loves to

• Language: English
• Publisher: D. Raye
• Release date: Jan 15, 2024
• ISBN: 9781088078884

Book preview

I dedicate this book to my loving and supportive husband.

I also want to thank my children for always pushing me to follow my dreams.

All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means – electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, scanning, or other – except for brief quotations in critical reviews or articles, without the prior written permission of the author.

Published in Nashville, Tennessee, 2019.

Book cover design by Connie Williams

Not everyone is going to like you, and that’s okay; your worth is not based on their opinion.

~ D. Raye ~

Birth of Darkness

A Twisted Fairytale

By D. Raye

Chapter 1

Fran squinted her eyes, hoping they would adjust in the darkness consuming the hallway as she ran her fingers along the wall. The wooden floor groaned beneath her feet, resounding throughout the passage. She glanced back; the delicate hair on her neck and arms lifted like static electricity passing over her. She was all alone—just her and the eerie blackness.

    Her pulse quickened as she picked up her pace. Her heartbeat was so intense that it echoed in her skull as it traveled throughout her entire being. She could not shake the notion of being stalked by an unseen presence as she stormed into her bedroom, slamming the door securely shut. Fran stood with her back and head resting against the door, shaking and gasping as though she had just run a mile.

    The moonlight saturated the area with a peaceful ambiance as the curtains swayed about in the gentle breeze flowing in from the open window. Fran smiled as she thought; I have got to stop letting my imagination get the best of me. She inhaled deeply; her pulse returned to its natural rhythm. I’m in my room, all safe and sound. It’s late, and I should be sleeping.

    Reassured it was nothing more than her perception of what she assumed was there, Fran peeled herself away from the door. She shuffled over to the window, gazed out, and stared up at the moon hovering above in full glory as she gently pulled the windowpane down into the closed position. She slipped into her nightgown and peered around the chamber. A chill swept over her as she blew out the small flame from the candle.

    Something immediately seized her from behind. Fran screamed, kicked, and violently contorted her body. The sensation of heat radiated from the creature’s skin as its yellow claws slashed through her gown before releasing its grip. 

    Desperate to escape, Fran dove for the door. With trembling hands, she twisted the doorknob, opening it just as the creature moved its ice-cold talons down her backside. She flinched, arched her back, and cried out in pain. The claws ripped through her clothing, penetrating her flesh as it slid down her body, slicing through the skin on her legs like razors.  

    With a fierce jerk, it plucked her feet out from under her. Help me, someone, please save me! Fran screamed while clinging to the doorknobs with a death grip.  

    Attempting to free herself from its clutches, she pivoted her hips back and forth. The more she fought, the more its talons permeated deeper into her flesh. While thrusting her legs, she maintained her hold on the knobs, even though she could feel her palms slipping.

    Fran peered over her shoulder. A glimpse of her attacker made her fear tangible. Her eyes widened with horror. She wanted to scream, yet nothing escaped from her throat other than a muffled moan. A greenish-black reptile of some sort with sooty, snake-like scales covering its enormous body came into view. Its eyes glowed yellow, and saliva dripped from its mouth as it let out a bone-chilling screech. A black hole consumed her bedroom floor as it tried to pull her into its abyss.

    The overwhelming stink of sulfur billowed up from the pit, causing her eyes to water and distorting her vision. Gray fog filled the room as she coughed and gagged while it engulfed her with its revolting odor.

    Let go of me! Fran demanded while kicking her legs with as much energy as she could muster.

    She returned her gaze down the hallway, readjusting her grip on the handles. The door spontaneously erupted into flames. With an agonizing scream and with fear in her eyes, Fran released her hold. Her face met the frigid floor with a thud as the creature dragged her toward its pitch-black void. Her hands burned from the inside out. She held them up and shrieked in terror as it pulled her across the floor.

    Her mind flipped from hysteria to fight mode. She dug her fingernails into the hardwood floor in an attempt to use them as anchors. Pain exploded through her entire body as the beast yanked her with enough force to rip them from their beds.

    Someone help me, please! She desperately cried out as her fingers smeared blood across the floor while feeling herself slipping into its hellish pit.

    Francine, Francine, wake up! Her grandmother shouted as she cradled Fran in her arms. You’re having a nightmare, child.

******

Prince James Raymond VI walked out onto the terrace that overlooked one of the many gardens the palace had to offer. Sunlight climbed up over the surrounding walls, revealing roses and other flowers glistening in a dew-covered bath. He peered around and arrogantly smirked, contemplating the woman he would wed on this day. I wonder if she realizes how lucky she is to be marrying me.

Prearranged marriages have taken place for centuries, and he was no exception. In fact, an arranged marriage would ensure the royal bloodline would not become defiled. He only desired his wife measures up to his standards. Let’s face it, James determined to himself; I am unparalleled to any other. I deserve the best. He squared his shoulders and slightly lifted his nose into the air. If she is not up to my standards, there are ways to conceal one’s face. He laughed while picturing his new bride roaming the palace grounds in a full-length veil. 

    James stretched, let out a moan, and yawned. At least it is a lovely day for a wedding; he thought as he looked out across the kingdom. I suppose I should prepare for it. He stared nonchalantly at the birds flying in and out of the nursery below, reflecting on the life set before him. I am about to be married – married; he pondered as he shook his head and stepped into his chamber.

******

James stood on the dressing platform facing the larger-than-life mirror while two male attendants buttoned, laced, and polished his royal attire. He was admiring how stately his reflection looked when a knock on the door interrupted the moment. 

    Enter, James acknowledged as he passed his fingers through his hair.

    Good morning, son. How are you holding up on this magnificent day? His father inquired as he entered the room. I see you are ready to meet your new bride. You look distinguished, he proudly exclaimed with a twinkle in his eyes.

    Good morning, Father. I believe I am as ready as one can be on his prearranged wedding day, James uttered with a less than enthusiastic tone, as he dismissed the servants.

    His father stood before him with pride in his eyes. You have grown up to be an outstanding young man. Any princess should consider herself blessed to stand by your side. 

    Thank you, father, James responded as he tugged on the sleeve of his shirt, halfway brushing off his father’s compliment.

    His father stepped over to one of the tables and poured the two of them a drink. Your mother would have been proud, he expressed as he handed James the glass. I only regret she is not here to witness this momentous occasion.

    I can just imagine the advice she would give me, James added with a chuckle as he swished the wine around in his mouth, savoring the flavor.

    She was a remarkable woman. His father shook his head as he gazed down at his drink. She was strong-willed, stubborn, smart, he paused, deep in thought. And so beautiful. I miss her terribly. He grinned, took a sip, and casually conveyed, You know—I was a nervous mess on the day we married.

    You never told me that. I cannot imagine you nervous about anything, James confessed with a shocked expression.   

    Oh yes; I was eighteen, and her sixteen—still children, he proceeded across the room and stared out the terrace door. However, the minute I saw her, it was love at first sight. She was the most exquisite woman I had ever seen. She had big green eyes, and pink lips, and she was such a petite little thing. I bet she did not weigh one hundred pounds. Her smile—all she had to do was flash it at me, and I turned into a big softy, his father declared with beaming eyes.

    She was something; I remember the warning looks she would give Josiah and me. We knew what was coming next if we did not settle down.

    Speaking of Josiah, where is that brother of yours? I thought for certain he would be in here giving you a hard time, his father considered as he glanced around the chamber.

    His absence can mean two different things—one, he is planning something embarrassing to spring on me at the reception. Or two, he cannot pry himself away from a pretty girl. Either way, we both know he will show up at the wedding just before it starts, James surmised as he finished the wine in his glass and placed it on the table.

    He is your mother’s child, never a dull moment, his father chuckled. As much as I dislike saying this, his body language shifted as he turned to face his son. Not all arranged marriages are a perfect fit. However, I pray yours and Christine’s will be nothing less than what your mother and I shared. After all, you will be the king someday. It is important your wife respects you not just for your sake, but for the sake of the people, his father remarked as he placed his hand on James’ shoulder and squeezed it. Shall we go?

    You go ahead, I will be right there, James responded as his father’s words bounced around in his head.

******

Kings, queens, nobles, and other distinguished guests crowded the cathedral and courtyard. They dressed in their most sumptuous attire, grand dresses, hats, and tailored suits. However, they paled in comparison to the elaborately decorated church and palace grounds.

  Enormous bouquets greeted each guest as they entered through the large wooden doors leading into the cathedral.  Gold and red bows fluffed to perfection hung precisely on each pew; red fabric ran the length of the aisle, stretched from one end of the sanctuary to the other. An arch built from fresh green vines and red roses, flanked by massive gold candle pillars, stood ready to welcome the bride and groom.

    Candles placed throughout the room glowed as their flames melted into them. The fragrance of flowers and burning incense lingered in the air, and vast chandeliers dangled from the ceiling housing large wax cylinders. White and gold ribbons draped from one beam to another, danced and shimmered in the candlelight, the ideal setting for a royal wedding.

    James stood shoulder to shoulder next to Father Dominic, who wore a white robe layered with red fabric and gold cords. James had immense reverence for him—an honor that was not given too many. James appreciated the man’s integrity and devotion to his faith. The priest was young, in his mid-forties with light-brown hair, hazel eyes, a lean build, and a warm smile. He had a soothing voice that always made one feel welcome in his presence.

    Trumpets blew, and a silhouette appeared in the foyer. The chamber orchestra played as Christine progressed down the aisle. James waited with apprehension as she slowly stepped between the pews lined with people. Please let her be as beautiful as I have heard her to be. He thought to himself as he watched her glide closer.

    Christine’s gown, composed of gold fabric and gold lace, glistened with each move. The sleeves hung off of her shoulders in layers of ruffles, spilling down her arms. The bust line, trimmed in gold silk ribbon, complimented her olive-toned, youthful breasts. A sea of gold chains intertwined with precious rubies adorned her neck and poured down into her cleavage.

    She wore a gold crown that was shown through the cream-colored veil that draped over her face. The train was an extravagant piece, attached to the dress just below the neckline. Formed in gold fabric layered over a small rose pattern, it streamed like a silk river down her back. Rubies sewn throughout it sparkled as she strolled along the runway placed before her.   

    James’ face came into view as she approached the front of the altar. Christine clenched the bouquet a little tighter. Her heart quivered, and she had to remind herself to breathe. He was profoundly handsome, dressed in royal garments with a red sash draped across his broad chest. He stood with a regal posture and an athletic physique. His wavy blond hair was perfectly combed, and his beard was nicely groomed.

    They faced one another, and his piercing blue eyes implied they were peering into her soul.

    Father Dominic addressed the guests in a loud and distinct voice. Dearly beloved, we are gathered here in the sight of God to join together this man and this woman in holy matrimony. He smiled, looked at the prince and the princess, then spoke to James. You may now recite your vows to one another. 

    I, Prince James, of Lawrick, take you, Princess Christine, of Gotha, to be my wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward; in sickness and in health, to respect and to cherish, till death do us part, according to God’s holy law. I vow to be your protector and companion, uniting our kingdoms for as long as we both shall live, James recited as he placed the small gold ring onto Christine’s finger.

    I, Princess Christine, of Gotha, take you, Prince James, of Lawrick, to be my husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward; in sickness and in health, to respect and to cherish, till death do us part, according to God’s holy law. With my body, I honor you, all that I am, I give you, and all that I have I share with you, uniting our kingdoms for as long as we both shall live, Christine professed while struggling to slide the gold ring over his knuckle and into place.   

    Heavenly Father, by your blessing, let these rings be to Prince James and Princess Christine a symbol of eternal faithfulness and remind them of the vow and covenant which they have made this day. Amen.

    The choir sang a beautiful hymn as the couple knelt before the altar. Father Dominic performed the ritual communion with a white wafer and red wine from a gold chalice lined with jewels, followed by a prayer. Bless their marriage, Heavenly Father, as they begin this journey down the road of life. We also ask in advance to bless the children they will bring into this world and unify them as one in your sight. Amen.

    As the couple rose, he joined their right hands together and spoke. Those whom God has joined together, let no man put asunder. I pronounce that they are husband and wife in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. With great honor, he peered into James’ eyes and proclaimed, You may now kiss your bride.

    James lifted Christine’s veil and gazed upon her for the first time. Her appearance pleased him; her green eyes reminded him of precious emeralds, and her skin, was unblemished and smooth. He seized her in his arms and embraced her, slightly dipping her backward, initiating their first kiss.

    Christine’s soft, full lips opened as he forced his tongue into her mouth. Her mind raced, and her palms became uncomfortably clammy. His forceful kiss caught her off guard, and her instinct to pull back took over, which increased his desire to extend it. The reality of being married to a total stranger flooded her like a rushing river, and the flutter in the depths of her core was a harsh reminder of that.

    James gently squeezed her hand as they turned to face the congregation. Father Dominic stood behind them and announced the two for the first time as Prince James Raymond VI of Lawrick and Princess Christine from Gotha as husband and wife. The trumpets blew, declaring the royal unity as the prince and the princess descended the aisle while the chamber orchestra played.

    Each person bowed as they passed, and a knot developed in Christine’s gut as tears brimmed her eyes. She forced herself to smile while her soul ached with sadness, anticipation, and anxiety all at the same time. The faces of strangers before her blurred in her water-filled eyes; the familiar ones she had become accustomed to were now just memories.

******

James and Christine joined his extended family, her family, and the other guests for the after-wedding celebration. The first toast came from his father, welcoming her into their family. She instantly loved him; he was a powerful king, with a witty and poised personality which quickly made her feel comfortable. Next came a brief speech from his younger brother Josiah; it was not as formal and offered her a sound inclination of the relationship between them.  

    As James and his father stood next to one another, Christine could not help but notice the resemblance between them; it was uncanny—same height, build, and facial features—both men were striking. She hoped that James also possessed his father’s warmness.

    The king walked around with Christine introducing her to the people while James reluctantly entertained her parents.  Servants moved about with trays of drinks and hors d’oeuvres to keep the crowd happy and enjoying the celebration.

    Christine watched the guests dance and wanted so much to join them. She glanced across the crowded garden and locked eyes with James. Like a schoolgirl flirting with a crush, Christine flashed her eyes at him, feeling a little giddy. He returned her gaze, and a sudden flare of joy filled her soul. Hoping he would take the cue and whisk her out onto the floor, she swayed to the music.

    James turned his focus back to the small group of men that were surrounding him. Disappointment replaced her anticipation as she realized he ignored her hint.

    A pleasant elderly woman stepped into her view. Is everything all right, dear?

    Yes, thank you, Christine replied with a forced smile.  

    The woman introduced herself and offered her the ‘inside gossip’ on the palace residents and staff—to which Christine smiled and pretended to be interested, but desperately wished James would rescue her.

    Excuse me, I am sorry to interrupt, but there is something that requires the princess’ attention, a young man expressed as he reached for Christine’s hand.

    Josiah, what is it? Christine questioned with a confused expression.

    Nothing, but you can thank me later, Josiah replied with a chuckle as he ushered her away.

    How did you know I secretly wished someone would save me? Can you read minds? She teasingly asked with a smile.    

    No mind-reading required. The look on your face revealed it all.

    Remind me to work on that, but you are correct—I owe you a thank you, Christine responded with a curtsy. So, thank you, kind sir. 

    You are welcome, Josiah answered, removing his hat, and returning the bow. Now, let me introduce you to some individuals that will not require the need to be rescued.

    Christine spent the rest of the evening listening to guests share their tales about James, his mother, and how much trouble he and Josiah were always getting into. She enjoyed learning more about him; their stories helped her see him more like a person and not just a prince to whom she had been betrothed. All she knew about him is what her parents had told her and the rumors she had heard from the palace staff.  

    As the night wound down, Christine found herself alone among the roses. She gazed up into the sky, beaming with bright stars and two moons fighting for the spotlight—the larger one a vibrant orange, the other a dynamic pink. Fireflies flashed their spirited little bodies as if they were communicating in code to one another. She closed her eyes and allowed her ears to see as the sounds in the garden appeared to come to life. Insects sang, and frogs billowed. The water in the fountain gurgled as it flowed from the base, into the air, and back down, only to repeat the movement all over again.

    James watched Christine as she rested there, motionless in the moonlight. Now was the precise time to ensnare her away to her bedchambers. The thought of being with her aroused him. She was extremely beautiful, and he had a lust for beautiful things.

******

They entered Christine’s chambers for the first time together. She would have liked more time getting acquainted with her surroundings before entering as a wife.  However, it is a custom for the bride to remain with her family until after the marriage. She glanced around the room, pleased with the accommodations. They were exquisite, with no detail left undone. 

    The first item she noticed was the bed; it was large, with four exquisitely carved wooden posts. The canopy was draped in light pink, sheer fabric layered over dark-pink satin, cascading down like a waterfall from the ceiling to the floor. A breathtaking green duvet, hand-embroidered with roses, beads, and pearls formed a considerable statement; the same embroidery covered each pillow that lined the head of the bed, arranged from largest to smallest.

    She glided across the room, examining the rest of the furnishings. It was luxurious and majestic; it was fit for a princess. Marble tables topped with wine, fresh fruits, and slices of bread were placed along the wall. A writing desk with a wonderfully hand-carved chair hailed attention.

    A large mirror rested in front of the dressing room. It stretched from the ceiling to the floor, cut into a gold frame, and displayed all the activities that took place.

    Light-green walls with gold crown molding joined in each corner with grand scones. Pink curtains flowed from the top of the window to the floor, where they puddled into an ocean of fabric. Paintings of flowers, horses, and landscapes lined the walls in shiny gold frames. The room was grand, and every inch beckoned her attention. She smiled, pleased to see some of her things from home placed throughout the chamber.

    James poured a glass of wine and offered it to her. Nervously, with shaking hands, Christine accepted it and drank it relatively quickly. Up to this moment, they had spent minimal time together, and she was not sure what to expect. Christine watched her new husband pick grapes from the stem one at a time and pop them into his mouth, followed by another glass of wine. She quietly stood next to him, anticipating what was to happen next.

    He set his drink on the table, gently touched Christine’s face with one hand, and retrieved her glass with the other. Without saying a word, he led her to the bed.

    Let me help you with that, James offered while motioning for her to turn around.

    Thank you, Christine softly replied as he unbuttoned the pearls running down the back of her gown.

    James helped her slip from the dress, and it felt like a ton had been lifted off of her. Standing before him in her corset and undergarments, he admired her voluptuous breasts and curvy hips.

    The rumors are true; your beauty is divine, he pretentiously spoke while watching her as she let her hair down. It was long and thick, giving the illusion of blue streaks running throughout it; it was sleek and straight, like nothing he had seen. Leave the crown on, James instructed in a seductive voice.

    Christine smiled at his comment. If anything, she was confident in her looks. She watched him slowly unbutton his shirt, exposing his chest. She tenderly touched the scars evident on his exposed skin. Do they hurt? How did you get them? Christine curiously inquired, as she stroked her fingers across one of the larger ones just below his ribs.

    No, they do not hurt. Every man that goes into battle comes out with scars, he snapped, almost offended by her lack of knowledge. I am a warrior, he stated as though she should have known.

    She lowered her head; she could tell he was not happy about her assumption he had not gone into battle. She was not accustomed to royalty being among the front lines.

    He shifted Christine’s body around and unlaced her corset, letting it drop to the floor. The remainder of her garments quickly followed, leaving her vulnerable and unveiled before him.

    James placed his hands on her hips and pulled her in close. Her bare skin was soft and cool to the touch. He kissed her full on the lips and worked his way down her torso while laying her on the bed. His touch aroused her as he caressed her breasts. The blood running through her body resembled hot lava; she felt like she was melting into the sheets beneath her.

    She arched her back and gripped the bedding as they became one. Sweat beaded on his forehead. His arms weakened to the point of trembling, and a throbbing pulse traveled throughout his entire body. He kissed her on the neck as pleasure overtook them.

    Christine’s first-time making love was an experience she would never forget. She lay there, watching him sleep. Her legs trembled, and her insides burned as she contemplated how she felt—full of emotion. I hurt yet feel pleasured. I want to wash him off me, yet I do not want to move. I want to cry, but I am not sure if I am happy or sad.

    She rolled over onto her side and gazed upon him. Why am I uncomfortable having his naked body next to me? He is my husband, and this is what married couples do. Her thoughts were all over the place. Christine moved her fingers along his back. One thing I am sure of, I know I will love him. I only hope he will one day reciprocate the feelings.

Chapter 2

Christine adjusted to her new course of living by learning her way around the palace and her place within the ranks of the household. She attended lunch and tea parties with the spouses of nobles and spent many hours horseback riding. Above all the activities, her favorite pastime was playing chess with the king. She cherished his stories, his sense of humor, and his all-around company. By the manner in which he treated her, she could tell he appreciated her companionship as well.

    James had a tougher time adjusting to having her there. He was accustomed to doing as he pleased, not answering to anyone, let alone a woman. Christine could tell he did not appreciate her questioning him about where or how he spent his time. However, she fell deeply in love with him, even though at moments, he could be a little harsh. He was adventurous, exciting, and always encouraging her to try different things. He was also demanding, somewhat selfish, and sometimes mysterious about some of his comings and goings.

    Nevertheless, she loved him and told him often. He never uttered the words back to her, not even during their intimate moments. She tried not pressing the issue and to let nature take its course; although, she was planning on helping it along with a romantic getaway after his return. James, his father, and Josiah were about to leave for their annual hunting trip.

******

James had fond memories of his youth, the excitement he felt when riding along with his father on a royal hunt; it was a tradition passed down from one generation to the next. Now that he was grown, the enthusiasm had somewhat dwindled. It appeared to be more of a waste of his time rather than anything else.

However, out of obligation, he saddled his stallion and accompanied his family. As they rode next to one another through the countryside, Josiah could not help but harass James about being married.

    Tell me, brother, how does it feel to no longer be a free man? Is the ball and chain as heavy as I have heard it to be? Josiah asked with a chuckle.

    Josiah, your turn is coming. We should all pray for your wife to be as delightful and kind as Christine, their father quickly chimed in.

    I, for one, will not be praying for a pretty bride; I pray that you get the most hideous thing that walks on two legs. Paybacks for all the years I have put up with you, James teased, having fun at his younger brothers’ expense.

    I hear ugly wives are loyal and worship the ground you walk on, Josiah returned with a smirk. Christine is beautiful, she shall surely break your heart, and I will be there with my devoted wife to rub it in your face, Josiah hollered back over his shoulder as they entered the forest.

    Their father shook his head. I live with comedians; I suspect you two have missed your calling with the court’s jester, their father interjected, all the while enjoying listening to his sons provoke each other. In all sincerity, he spoke as he shifted in the saddle to face James. How are things moving along between the two of you? She is a lovely young lady. I have appreciated having her in the palace; she brings life into the old place. Not to mention, she is one hell of a chess player, his father confessed with a grin as his mare slowly followed the trail through the thicket.

    Yes, please advise us, when will we have the pleasure of calling you Prince Daddy James, Josiah poked.

    Oh, little brother, you are so cute. Not that it is any of your business, but Christine and I have been getting along rather well. She is stunning, entertaining, satisfying, and smart, James responded to his brother’s contentious comment. As far as Prince Daddy James, let’s just say it would not surprise me if we are not welcoming a little one in the very near future.

    I could not be happier to hear such marvelous news, his father countered, hand waving in the air, almost in a singing