Icetouched Origins: The Deceiver of Men

There are many interesting tales to be told in this madness that we call the world. A world where mortals go about their daily business not realising they are not the dominant species on this planet. That role is reserved for the immortals.

‘What are the immortals?’ I hear you ask. Well I will do my best to tell you what they are… the immortals are… immortal. They were once mortals like most people but then something happened to them - something terrible, something so heart wrenching that something snapped inside of them. They lost their mortality and put on immortality. Where once there was a gifted mortal (remember this: all immortals are gifted to begin with), there was now an immensely powerful demigod who could wreak such terrible havoc if they so willed it. Such power I have witnessed in them, such utter devastation I have seen them work, such twisted minds, such pain inside of them. I am still in awe of them to this day even though I am so familiar with them now. If you ever realise you have met one then you will understand, by the gods you will understand.

I can see in your eyes that you want to know what made the immortals become what they are. That is a tale that is impossible to tell. Every immortal is an individual with their own tale. I do not think you wish to hear all of their tales. They are long and all end badly but perhaps if you are truly desperate then I could tell you just one of their tales…

Yes, I heard you all the first time. You want to hear a tale so I shall tell you one. After all it is what I do. So I will tell you one tale that is not like the other tales of the immortals beginnings. This immortal did not ascend to his new state like the others.

Now do not misunderstand, the events that made him change are still tragic but the difference is that he sought out these happenings in the hope of becoming immortal. He was such a gifted person who could have made the world a better place with his powers but he was so desperate for more that he did not realise what he would have to sacrifice to fulfil his vain ambitions. I would say that perhaps his is the most tragic tale when I think on it.

You want to know how I know these tales. It is simple really. I am the Storyteller and I know it because that is who I am. I know the tales of all those I meet and I share them with others that they might learn something from the lives of others. It is a thankless calling, for the most part, but I do it because I want to try and make the world a better place. I hope that others can perhaps also take up the cause I fight for so I travel telling tales that inspire and warn.

I digress, though. Onto the tale you all seem so desperate to tell. It is an epic tale that would be enjoyable to tell if it was not so tragic.

So gather round while I tell you a tale: the tale of the Deceiver of Men and how he came to be.

*

The sun rose on a kingdom in a country far away. Its golden light shone upon the clean white buildings of its capital city and reflected gloriously from the Royal Mountain upon which sat the Queen’s palace.

The Palace was a riot of marble towers and columned halls. There were towers everywhere. The palace had once just been a single lowly tower but centuries of expansion had turned it into a mess of spires linked by bridges and low colonnaded halls. It was an example of grand overbearing opulence but a security nightmare.

This, perhaps, explained why it was the only building on the entire mountain. The city that surrounded it was built on the plains round about the mountain but the bottom of the mountain itself was bound by a massive wall of white stone.

The Wall, as it was called, stood tall and proud in the golden light of morning. Men and women in bright silvery armour patrolled up and down, the sunlight glinting off the polished heads of the white pikes they carried.

A bright clear bell rang out across the Wall signalling the customer change of guard at first light. Men and women gratefully left the Wall to take a well earned rest as others appeared to replace them. It had been many years since this country had seen war but the Royal Guards were always vigilant, no matter the hour. They had to be, the Queen was so important to the wellbeing of the land. It would be disaster if she died.

Queen Eurealia smiled at the view of her glorious kingdom. She always felt so grateful that she was Queen of such a beautiful country.

“A shame I can’t do much more than observe it from a distance,” she sighed.

“Pardon, your Highness?” asked a gruff voice from behind her.

She stifled another sigh, “Nothing, my Lord Chamberlin. I was merely remarking on the beauty of this kingdom.”

“Yes, your Highness,” replied the man almost automatically. She did not look around but she could imagine he was bowing. A smile appeared on her face again - such a silly, yet loyal man.

“I take it you wished to speak to me, Alistor?”

Alistor cleared his throat, “Yes, your Highness…”

She chuckled, “Please, you need not be so formal when it is just the two of us.”

“Of course, your… I mean Eurealia. If I may continue?”

The Queen turned to look at Alistor. She smiled warmly and motioned for him to continue before returning her gaze to her kingdom.

“We have found a replacement for your bodyguard,” said Alistor.

“Oh? So who is she?” she asked with interest.

Alistor coughed. He always did that when he was about to tell her something he found uncomfortable.

She turned to face him again making the man look more nervous. He began to tug on his white beard.

“What is the matter, Alistor?”

“Well,” cough, “Your new bodyguard is erm…” cough, “a he,” he finally managed to stop tugging his beard.

Eurealia laughed, “What made you change hundreds of years of tradition?”

“There was no one else,” he muttered in his beard.

“Surely not? There has always been someone who was willing to take the job and you always took the best woman even if they were not the best overall,” she forced him to look her in the eye. She smiled, “I’m not complaining but I want to know why.”

Alistor began to tug on his beard again, “He was the only man to enter but he killed everyone who entered, in the required duel.”

The smile fell from her face, “I’m not sure if someone like that would be a trustworthy bodyguard.”

The man held out his hands and shook them back and forth, “No no no, your… Eurealia. He killed them all in self-defence.”

“Truly?”

The old Lord nodded, “Yes, it was strange, however.”

The woman’s curiosity was piqued, “In what way?”

He coughed again, “Every contender who faced him appeared to go insane with rage. They attached him ignoring all rules first blood.”

The Queen was silent for a moment. This was strange. It seemed too much to be just coincidence.

“I take it you investigated this fully?” she asked.

“Of course. Our best magicians and doctors investigated fully but could find no cause, magical or otherwise,” he seemed taken aback that his Queen could even ask such a thing.

She smiled, “Calm down, Alistor. I knew you would but I liked to check,” she paused, “So there was no one else after this.”

Alistor sighed and shook his head, “No, everyone seems to be afraid to enter now.”

The woman laughed, “Sounds like a perfect bodyguard.”

The old man smiled, “Yes but we are worried, considering he is a man.”

The Queen took his hand and patted it, “Oh, do not worry. I’m sure it will be fine.”

He sighed, “Unfortunately, half of the Council do not agree with you. Out vote is split evenly on ratifying the appointment.”

“An even split? So you had an abstention?” she asked. This situation was getting interesting. She needed some much needed excitement in her very dull life.

“Yes, one was adamant that they would not vote. They felt the decision is yours,” he seemed to be accusing her of something.

She chuckled, “That would be Cleara. She has always felt I should have a say in my protection.”

Alistor appeared irritated, “So you had nothing to do with this?”

An innocent smile appeased on the Queen’s face, “Oh no,” she winked, “We just agree.”

The Lord Chamberlin coughed, “Well, it is no matter. The decision lies with you.”

“Then I shall have to meet him.”

He nodded, “He is in the second reception room in the Ministry tower.”

“A fair walk then,” she grinned and clapped her hands, “Well then we better get going.”

She took one last look at the splendour of her domain before taking the proffered arm of the Lord Chamberlin.

They began to descend through the various towers and bridges towards the room where the man was waiting to meet her. All the way down she kept thinking of one thing: This will be fun.

*

Alric waited patiently.

He was standing in the second reception room. Its walls were covered in tapestries depicting various victories of the past. It was a strong room, a display of power opposed to the soft opulence of most of the other chambers in this maze-like palace. He liked this room.

The Royal Guards shuffled nervously as he glanced at them. He smiled. They were afraid of him, which was perfect. Fear he could work with very well. In fact, any extreme emotion was perfect for him but fear was by far his favourite. He was stronger when they feared him.

He turned as he heard the sound of the door being him opening. More Royal Guard filed in taking up position around him and next to the door. They were followed by the large old figure of the Lord Chamberlin. He nodded slightly then bowed out of the way to present the person Alric had been desperate to meet.

All dropped to one knee as the Queen swept into the room in a way only royalty could. She was a voluptuous woman with curves in all the right places and pleasingly filled-out breasts. She wore an elegant red gown that complicated her fiery red hair. The gown had long sleeves, as was the style of the time (Much to Alric’s displeasure), a very low neckline showing off the top of the Queen’s very well proportioned breasts, as was the style of the time (Much to Alric’s pleasure). Her golden eyes and lightly bronzed skin glowed in the light of the numerous chandeliers and torches. There was a warm welcoming smile on her face.

Alric, in contrast, was average height and build with dark hair and a handsome face. He wore a dark tunic and breeches with a sword belted at his waist.

Both of them could be considered attractive although they were attractive in different ways, Alric has a dangerous animal charm whereas the Queen was radiant and charismatic. It was this alongside her importance to the kingdom that had earned her the undying love of the country.

She motioned for him to rise. As he rose, she began to walk around him with that same warm smile.

“What is your name?” she asked in a surprisingly informal manner.

“Alric, my Queen,” he said not looking around to face her.

She continued to pace around him, “Nice name.” She stopped in front of him and looked him straight in the eye. Her golden eyes seemed to almost reflect his image, “You swear you had nothing to do with the deaths of the other contenders?”

He smiled, “Bar self-defence I had nothing to do with it.”

Her eyes narrowed slightly before she turned away. Did she not believe him? How could that be possible?

The Queen had a whispered conversation with the Lord Chamberlin before turning back to face Alric – she had a sly smile on her face, “I think you’ll make an excellent bodyguard for me.

“Kneel please,” he kneeled as she placed her hand on his head, it was very warm. She cleared her throat, “I bestow upon you the title of Royal Bodyguard and all the rights and responsibilities of that office. Do you accept this command?”

“Yes, my Queen,” he said with less civility than he intended.

She chuckled, “Arise then Alric and serve your Queen.”

He stood up again and half-heartedly bowed while giving her his best winning smile. She smiled back and nodded before turning to leave.

“The Lord Chamberlin will have someone show you to your quarters and explain the details of your duty in mind numbing detail.”

She turned her head and winked at him over her shoulder, “I shall see you tomorrow morning. I need to make the official proclamation of your calling to the Council,” then she turned away and swept out leaving an awestruck Alric with some med who did not like him very much.

*

We need to talk…

Alric’s eyes snapped open. It was still the middle of the night much to his irritation but it was impossible to ignore so he had to answer it or it would never leave him alone. Really he should probably be more respectful to that voice - after all it had promised him his heart’s desire.

He said up in bed making the small figure next to him stir before going still. A smug smile crept onto his face, one night here and he had already bedded on of the maids. Women were so easy. He idly fondled her breasts with one hand while waiting for the other presence to speak again. Disturbingly the girl did not stir again.

Do not be concerned, cracked the voice, She will not stir or awaken while I will it to be so.

“Oh,” he shrugged and decided to take advantage of the situation.

The voice sighed, In-the-name-of-all-that-is-holy will you stop being a fool and listen!

Alric growled, “I am no fool. I merely take the opportunities that are opened to me. That is not foolishness, merely opportunism.

The voice snorted, Yes I will agree with you on the opportunist part… Anyway, you are now in the position I wanted you to be in.

“No thanks to you.”

It growled. The sound it made sounded like a raging inferno, Our agreement has nothing to do with my assistance or not. We both want something and we will both get it. When we get it is up to you.

“Then what is the point of this conversation?” he asked in irritation.

A warning, it said.

“Of what?”

The Queen is not so easily deceived. You cannot rely on your abilities alone.

“Then I have nothing else,” he said raising his voice. He was beginning to get angry now.

In that you’re wrong.

He felt the presence withdraw. The woman groaned slightly and rolled over. Alric sighed and lay down again, savouring the warmth of the body next to him. He had no idea what to do now but he did know one thing. He was in a powerful position and he was going to enjoy every minute of it.

*

Eurealia felt the breath leave her lungs as her maids finished lacing up the formal dress she was expected to wear. The maids began to work on her hair leaving her standing there at a loose end. She despised all the bravado but it was apparently necessary so she just tried to bear it while trying to get out of it as much as possible.

Finally a simple golden circlet was placed on her head signalling all was ready. A maid held up a mirror for her approval. She brushed a stray hair from her face and smiled. They had done her hair just how she liked it – long and straight down either side of her head. Parts of it shot gently out to the side, almost flame like. Perfect.

She waved the maids away to give her the chance, almost literally, to catch her breath. She sighed. Today would not be a pleasant morning. Half of the Council would be pleased with her decision, whereas the other half would be in an uproar over the appointment of a male bodyguard. In a way she could understand their concern over the matter but, on the other hand, their clear lack of trust in her was aggravating. She smiled. Well now she had found a way to get back at them as well as prove that they could trust her. Yes, this situation was very much to her liking when she thought about it.

A knock shook her out of her reverie.

“Yes?”

“Alric has arrived, your Highness,” answered a guard from behind the door.

“Show him in then.”

“Yes, your Highness.”

The large dark wooden door swung open permitting Alric to stride in like he owned the place. He wore simple dark clothing with a sword on his belt.

Eurealia frowned, he was not particularly dressed for the occasion but at least he was on time. Unfortunately, they did not have the time for him to go back and change into something more formal.

“Are you ready, my Queen?” he asked as he bowed.

She nodded, “Yes, let us be off.”

The man nodded and fell into step behind her as she, and some Royal Guards, began to make their way to the Council halls. The halls were located a good few floors and towers from where the Queen’s apartments were located so it was going to be a long walk.

“Tell me something about yourself,” ordered the Queen trying to alleviate the tedium of walking through what felt like miles of marble columned corridors, halls and bridges.

“Like what, my Queen?”

The woman shrugged, “Whatever,” she paused, “How old are you?”

Alric smiled, “I will be twenty-five in a month.”

She looked at him, “Liar.”

He laughed, “Ok, I will be twenty-eight in a month.”

“Oh? So you are old as me. How is it possible a handsome young man like yourself is not married?”

The man shook his head, “I’ve never met anyone that has given me the remotest inclination to consider it,” he winked, “Also something to do with being such a terrifying person.”

The Queen chuckled, “Yes, there is that…” she smiled at him, “Personally I do not find you particularly scary.”

Alric laughed, “Then you, my Queen, are the first.”

A look of satisfaction settled on the Queen’s face, “I hope I may be many of your firsts.”

He started, “Excu…”

“Ah, we’re finally here.”

Alric looked forward again and noticed the party was standing in front of a massive set of double doors. They were made of dark red wood with massive bronze knockers and golden handles. He smiled. Everything in this palace seemed to be white, black, red, gold or bronze. Even the Queen was wearing a stunning red dress that shimmered with gold as she moved. There were other colours in the world. Although he did only wear dark clothing so perhaps he was being hypocritical. He mentally shrugged. It did not matter anyway.

Eurealia coughed politely to get his attention, “When the doors open make sure to stand in front and slightly to the side of me.”

He nodded, “Of course, my Queen.”

She smiled and returned her gaze to the door. A few moments passed before the doors opened to the sound of blaring trumpets. The Queen shook her head in amusement before schooling her expression. Alric was impressed at the speed of the change in her demeanour. She was either very well trained or, more likely in his view, she was naturally talented.

The woman began to walk forward forcing Alric to jump slightly to stay in the position she had ordered him to be in. No one seemed to notice, except perhaps the Queen since the corners of her mouth twitched slightly, so all was well.

The Council Chamber lay open before him. It was a dark columned hall (What was it with columns in this place?) lit only with torches and a single large chandelier in the centre. Standing in the large pool of light cast by the chandelier, were ten older men and three older women. Amongst them was the large presence of the Lord Chamberlin and another man who was staring at him with outright hostility.

Alric smiled in return at the chief of the Royal Guards. He did not like how he had become the chosen candidate for the Queen’s bodyguard. Personally, Alric did not give a damn what the old fool thought. The Queen had chosen him and that was the end of it - victory to him.

The group of men and women bowed when the Queen entered the light. She nodded at them respectfully, smiling at the Lord Chamberlin and one of the women. They all glanced at him for a moment before returning their gazes to her. He made sure to smile at them every time they looked at him.

“Your Majesty,” the chief of the Royal Guards bowed, “I cannot comprehend why you would choose this murderer to be your protector.”

The Queen sighed, “I am not here for comprehension. I am here to cast my casting vote then I shall leave with a new bodyguard,” the chief made to speak but she cut him off, “The debate is over, General. I vote for Alric to be my bodyguard and with that the motion is passed.”

Voices rose in protest but Eurealia ignored them all. She spun around in a flash of gold before walking out of the chamber. Alric hurried to keep up with her, followed by a surprisingly quick Lord Chamberlin. The clamours of protest were silenced by the massive doors shutting behind them.

“Your Highness!” called the old man.

The Queen span around with a look of furious triumph on her face. She began to laugh uncontrollably.

“Your Highness,” the old man complained, “Please tell me you didn’t just make this decision to annoy the Council.”

The woman regained control of herself before replying, although she still had a smile on her face, “No, that was just a very very pleasing bonus. Trust me. I would not make such important decisions for such petty reasons. I wish you could all realise I am not a child,” she turned away and sighed.

The Lord Chamberlin shook his head and put a hand on her shoulder, “I know you are not a child, Eurealia. We all just worry for you. You’re so important to us all. I’m sorry if it feels like we are patronising you.”

She looked over her shoulder and smiled slightly, “You’ve always been so kind to me Alistor but I don’t think a lot of the other Councillors agree with you.”

He sniffed, “Perhaps but in the end the people follow your rule and not the Council. You will always be their Queen and saviour.”

“Yes, there is that.”

She began to walk away leaving Alric to yet again play catch-up. The Queen was surprisingly fast for someone in such restrictive clothing. Her head was bowed as if she was deep in thought. Alistor had not followed them and Alric realised it was just the two of them for the first time since they had met. They walked in silence back towards the Queen’s apartments.

“Alric?” she said quietly as they entered the Royal Tower. Her head remained bowed.

“Yes, my Queen?”

“Your Queen does not feel like socialising for the rest of the day. Can you make sure no one enters and, once my maids leave, that they do not enter either?” she asked in that same quiet voice.

He nodded, “Of course, my Queen.”

“Thank you, Alric.”

Her bodyguard decided it best not to respond so left Eurealia to her thoughts.

When they finally arrived at their destination, the Queen muttered a goodbye before shutting the door. Alric dismissed the guards and took up station in front of the door. It was going to be a long boring day. Perhaps when the maids were sent out he might find one or two to keep him company.

He sighed with contentment. His plan was advancing well, better than expected. Today may not be as boring as he thought it was going to be.

*

The Queen sighed when he maids appeared. She really just wanted to be left alone for the moment but they were necessary if she wanted to get this constricting dress of, it was beautiful but uncomfortable.

“Could you please get me out of this dress,” she asked in irritation.

One of the maids nodded and gestured to another four who began to unlace her dress while another removed the golden circlet from her head. Eurealia shook her head making her hair lose most of its shape which was a shame but liberating also.

She let out a sigh of relief when the dress was removed, “Take off the under-gown as well please.”

“Of course, your Highness.”

It was removed swiftly. It was far easier to remove than the overly ornate gowns and dresses she was expected to wear. They were all beautiful but sometimes she just wanted plain loose fitting clothing like the plain white under-shift she was wearing now. It was the only clothing she was wearing – she wore no jewellery as was the traditions of all the Queens of this land.

A breeze caused the deep red drapes that covered the archways to the terrace, to blow inwards. She closed her eyes on the quarter-circle shaped room and savoured the cool wind that caressed her skin. The wind fed her, made her feel stronger. She always welcomed fresh air in her rooms.

“What does the Queen desire to wear?” interrupted one of the maids.

The slight smile on the red haired woman fell, “I am happy as I am now,” she paused, “I think I’m going to stand on the terrace for a while… get some fresh air.”

The maid looked horrified, “But your Highness, that is unseemly. What if someone should see you?”

The Queen pointed at the maid, “That is none of your concern, servant,” she snapped. A torch spat making all the maids jump. They looked at her in terror, “Are there braziers on the terrace?”

The main nodded, white faced, “Yes… your Majesty.”

Eurealia folded her arms, “Then it will be fine. Now all of you leave my apartments and do not return unless called for.”

The maids began to protest further darkening the Queen’s already bad mood. A few spluttering torches scared the women into silence.

“I said leave!”

All the flames in the room flared suddenly. The girls all yelped and almost ran for the door. She sighed and allowed herself to slouch when the last of them had left. They really did not deserve her ire but there inability to see that she wanted to be alone annoyed her. Everyone kept telling her how great she was and she was so important yet they all seemed to have trouble comprehending that she was a person. That she had thoughts and feelings. That she had dreams and desires. That she was just so tired.

She pushed her way through the drapes and out onto the sunlit terrace. The wind was stronger here causing her hair and the thing fabric of her scant clothing to flutter. A ghost of a smile appeared on her face as she savoured the feeling of the wind feeding her. The woman tilted her head back and shut her eyes with her arms outstretched.

It was wonderful but it was still not enough. She could not understand why she felt like this. Was it guilt? After all she had chosen Alric because she knew it would annoy the Council. Perhaps she felt bad because, really, she was being selfish. Alric was a liar yet she had still chosen him. Why? Was there other motives apart from the obvious ones everyone was thinking of? She shook her head. There was only one way to empty her mind when it was this full and clouded. It needed to be cleansed.

The braziers either side of her suddenly flared up – their flames reaching almost six feet up into the air. The fires began to die as the woman began to change. Her hair seemed to lengthen taking on the movement and colour of fire. Her skin glowed with an inner light. Her entire body was wreathed in flames that made her form ripple with the shear heat she exerted. Her golden eyes gleamed.

Her mind cleared as the flame cleansed all of her doubts and insecurities. There was so much power flowing through her. It always felt so wonderful to feel so much raw untamed energy pass through her.

After a few minutes she allowed the flames to die. Her body returned to its normal state before she had taken the fires of the brazier. Except the fires had claimed the clothes she had been wearing.

She looked down at her naked body and sighed, “Damn it, I hate how this always happens.”

*

So it goes well?

“Very well.”

Must you fondle every woman I put to sleep? smouldered the voice in frustration.

Alric continued to do what he was doing. “I figure since I’m sharing my bed with them that I have a right.”

Perhaps… but I don’t think they would agree with you if they woke up now, there was a hint of promise in the voice.

“You wouldn’t…”

Try me, crackled the voice.

The man sighed and gave his full attention to the voice. He wished it had a body so he could glare at it like he so wanted to.

“So what is you want from me?” he growled.

You remember my warning, yes?

Alric nodded, “Yes, she does seem able to resist my abilities.”

She more than resists… be thankful she does not realise you have your abilities, hissed the voice.

“Do you think she would care?” he asked.

The voice seemed to consider this before replying, Perhaps, she is a fickle creature but also strong. I would err on the side of concealment.

He snorted, “She is not strong. You should have seen what she was like after her visit to the Council.”

The voice growled with its usual fiery sound, Fool! That is not weakness. It is her strength.

Alric shook his head, “I don’t think so.”

The voice sighed, Do not underestimate her. She is far stronger than you can comprehend.

She does have one weakness however…

“And this is?”

That I will not tell you, replied the voice with a hint of satisfaction, You are not worthy of your reward if you cannot do this on your own.

“But…” he stopped when he realised the voice had gone.

He sighed and lay back down in bed. The reward better be worth all this trouble.

Oh yes, said the voice returning, I advise you to stop bedding the Queen’s maids. It will only make your task harder.

Alric sighed in exasperation. The reward better be really worth it.

*

“Alric!”

A fist hammered on the door.

“Alric answer me now!”

The man staggered out of bed and towards the hammering door. He paused to pull on some breeches on before opening the door.

The Lord Chamberlin stood there in his usual imposing posture. His white hair and beard contrasted amusingly with his red face.

“What is it, my Lord?” asked Alric trying his best not to sound insolent.

“We wish to see you in the Council chamber,” he said regaining control of his temper.

“Right now?”

“Yes!” snapped the old man.

Alric looked longingly at the naked woman lying asleep on his bed. He had hoped for one last hurrah before his forced abstention but he guessed it was not meant to be.

“Very well,” he sighed, “I will accompany you in a moment.”

He shut the door in Alistor’s face and began to put the rest of his clothes on. He strapped on his sword belt before taking another look at the maid. Damn it, he would find some way for the old man to pay for this.

He opened the door sweeping past the old man, slamming the door behind him, and off in the direction of the Council chambers.

The old lord easily caught up with him. He was fast for an old man. His large stature probably helped him as he took massive strides to keep up with the fuming Alric. Alistor seemed to be angry too but the bodyguard was too tied up in his own irritation to care.

“I do not like you Alric,” said the larger man as they passed through another colonnaded corridor. Despite the extensions and refurbishments, the architects in this kingdom, through the ages, never seemed to change the style.

“Nevertheless, the Queen has chosen you so I will accept you. However, you would do well to check your temper and arrogance. They will not serve you well in your duties.”

The younger man snorted, “It matters now how I do my duties. What matters is that I do them.”

“As you grow older, you will learn that is not the case.”

Alric smiled, “Then may I never grow older!”

The old man sniffed but remained silent for the rest of their journey. It was a welcome silence. Alric had no interest in anything anyone in this palace had to say except his associate and, perhaps, the Queen.

The two men passed through a side door into the Council chambers. All the Council was present which Alric found mildly unsettling. Normally only all were present when the Queen was visiting. What did they want from him?

“Alric, you are aware of what is happening in a week?” asked an old man in a red robe signifying he was the head of the state religion.

Alric shrugged, “Should I be?”

Irritation flashed across the priest’s face, “It is the day of Trial by Fire.”

The bodyguard smiled and folded his arms, “Now I get it. You’re upset because it is my duty to bear the Fire Cloak.”

The Council all muttered in the affirmative.

“The Queen is a beautiful young lady and of royal blood. It is not meet that a man should see her nakedness,” said one of the women.

“Whether it is ‘meet’ or not,” he replied with all the sarcasm he had, “It is still the duty of the Queen’s bodyguard to bear the Fire Cloak.”

“But this time it is different…” protested another man.

“No it is not,” snapped Alric.

The Lord Chamberlin sighed, “Sadly you are correct. However,” he began when he saw the triumph in Alric’s eyes, “When the time comes. You are not allowed to look at the Queen. You will avert your eyes until she has donned the Cloak.”

He rolled his eyes, “Very well, if you insist.”

“This swine has no manners,” growled the chief of the Royal Guards.

Alric just grinned in response making the old warrior’s face a deeper shade of red “I take it the Queen does not know of this order?”

The old man sighed, “No and you would do well not to mention it to her.”

“You trust in your Queen is touching.”

Alistor’s face went scarlet, “That is enough, bodyguard! You have your orders. Now get out and try to learn some manners. You can be replaced.”

Alric laughed and walked out of the room in triumph. Such a collection of pompous, overbearing and hypocritical fossils. It had been all too easy to play them. They would be so angry now that they would eventually turn on each other - each blaming the other for allowing Alric to become the Queen’s bodyguard. He grinned broadly and made his way back to his room. Perhaps that maid was still there.

Unfortunately, the Queen had other ideas. A Royal Guardsmen intercepted him with summons from his charge.

He sighed while silently cursing fate. What could she possibly want at this time of day?

*

Eurealia smiled when Alric found her on the terrace. She gestured for him to sit at the table she had had brought out.

“Good morning, Alric.”

He smiled and inclined his head, “Good morning, my Queen.”

The man leaned back on his chair and stretched. He stifled a yawn.

“Tired?”

Alric sighed, “A little. Your Council wanted to see me.”

“Oh?” she was surprised. It was extremely unusual for the Council to meet with a bodyguard after she, he she corrected herself, was chosen.

Her bodyguard shrugged, “It was nothing important, just some growling over me being the wrong gender.”

She sighed, “So they’re still moaning about that.”

Alric laughed, “It has only been one night, my Queen.”

The Queen smiled, “True but I’m an impatient woman,” she paused, “Anyway, have you had breakfast?”

“No, my Queen.”

“Then would you care to join me for some?” she asked.

“Of course, my Queen.”

That warm smile appeared on her face, “Good.”

She gestured, bringing some of her maids laden down with food and plates. Once the servants had left they both began to eat. Alric ate with the enthusiasm of a starving man whereas Eurealia ate in the slow and proper manner that only someone of noble birth could possibly accomplish.

“What do you think of the view?” she asked after they had both finished eating.

The man looked her up and down. She was wearing a simple grey dress and her red hair had been straightened.

“It’s beautiful,” he said with a sly grin on his face.

She blushed despite herself, “You know what I mean.”

He grinned and looked out on the kingdom, “Yes it is very beautiful. The city looks so clean from here. If only it was like that close up.”

Eurealia sighed resting her chin on her right hand, “I would not know. I have never left the Royal Mountain. I wish I could.”

Alric shrugged, “You’re not missing much. Everyone out there wishes they were in here.”

The woman smiled slightly, “Poetic irony.”

He smiled, “Perhaps.”

The Queen stood up and her bodyguard also, “You can go now, Alric. I wish to go riding after lunchtime. Can you make the arrangements and meet me here after lunch?”

Alric bowed, “Of course, my Queen.” He swept through the red drapes and away,

She stood there for a moment. It had been years since any man had made her blush. Then again, no man had ever dared speak to her like that for years. She smiled. The man was a liar but a charming one. He was beginning to fascinate her. Already he occupied much of her thoughts. Perhaps when they went out riding together, alone, she might be able to get a better understanding of him.

A signal to the maids caused the table to be cleared. Eurealia walked back into her rooms. She had made to make some preparations for the afternoon and she had other state duties to perform before lunch. The coming boredom made the coming afternoon more exciting.

The afternoon was going to be interesting.

*

“So what do you think?”

“The lake is very beautiful, my Queen.”

The Queen smiled, “Yes, is my favourite part of the Royal Mountain.”

Alric looked at the Queen. She was wearing a dark brownish red riding skirt with a simple dark red tunic and leather boots and gloves the same colour as her skirt. Apparently her maids had raised objections over her ignoble attire but Alric could not care less. She looked damn good in it, although it could improve dramatically by just unfastening one more button…

“Let’s ride to the shore,” said the woman bringing Alric out of his fantasies.

“As you wish, my Queen.”

They rode almost to the shore before Eurealia dismounted, Alric following suit. The Queen stuffed her gloves in a saddlebag.

The crystal clear waters of the lake stretched out before him. Sunlight glinted off its surface dazzling his eyes if he looked at it the wrong way. The bottom of the lake could be seen from the shore but oddly there were no animals in the water, not a single fish. All was silent around them except for the lapping sounds of the lakeshore and the stamping of the horses.

Eurealia began to walk towards the water leaving Alric standing with the horses. A few paces from the shore she stopped. She stumbled as she tried to pull off one of her boots while standing. After getting one boot off, she lost balance completely. Alric caught her before she hit the ground.

The woman smiled, “Thank you.”

He righted the Queen before replying, “No problem, my Queen.”

She laughed while removing her last boot, “That was unusually formal for you. Don’t tell me you’re embarrassed by being so close to me?” she teased.

Alric coughed, “No, my Queen.”

“Liar,” she smirked.

He sighed, “You always see right through me, my Queen.”

Eurealia smiled, “I hope you learn to get less embarrassed around me. I can be quite an embarrassment at times.”

“I will try to keep that in…” the Queen began to unbutton her tunic, “What are you doing?” he asked aghast, much to his own surprise. He felt his face grow warm.

She finished unfastening and allowed her tunic to fall to the ground, “What does it look like I’m doing?” she seemed to genuinely think it was obvious what she was up to. She sighed when he did nothing except look away, “I’m going swimming.”

He heard the sound of her skirt falling to the ground followed by some splashing. He looked out and saw the Queen bobbing up and down a good distance away from him.

“I’m going to a cave that’s underneath the island,” she called.

The clear waters did nothing to hide the Queen’s naked body. Alric was trying his best just to look at her face.

“You cannot leave my sight, my Queen,” he called back.

“Then come with me, silly,” she called before swimming off again towards the cave she spoke of.

Alric sighed. “I can’t decide if this is making my job harder or easier,” he muttered to himself.

He quickly stripped off his clothes albeit with some reluctance when he took off his sword belt. Really he had no need for one but he found it useful.

The man waded into the lake before quickly swimming after the woman in an attempt to catch up with her. He caught up with the Queen when she stopped at a rock cliff on one side of the island in the lake.

She brushed her hair from her face and smiled when he surfaced next to her. Her golden eyes sparkled in the sunlight. It seemed to be the only safe thing to look at. He could swear he saw himself reflected in her gaze.

“Glad you could join me, Alric.”

He tried his best to sketch a bow while staying above water much to Eurealia’s amusement, “It is my duty, my Queen.”

“Well I’m grateful for you loyalty,” she turned and looked down, “The entrance to the cave is down below the surface.” She looked over her shoulder, “Follow me, ok?” she smiled before diving underwater.

Alric took a deep breath and dove under. He followed the light bronze figure of the Queen through a crevice in the rock face. They passed through a tunnel before surfacing in a cave. He cried out as steam burned his face. He dove back under the surface. There was no safe place to surface so he reluctantly swam outside. The Queen surfaced a few moments later. She looked concerned.

“What’s the matter?” she asked.

“You didn’t tell me it would be full of steam. Nearly burned my face off,” he said not trying to sound too angry. It helped that the pain had only been short-lived.

Eurealia put a hand to her mouth, “Oh, I’m sorry. I forgot that you would get hurt by the heat,” she bowed her head, “I should have known better. I’m sorry.”

“I’m fine,” he said jovially, “I was just surprised, that’s all.”

She half-smiled, “Well as long as you’re alright.”

“Guess I can’t follow you then.”

The Queen shook her heard, “You can still follow me. I just forgot to do something before you surfaced.”

“What, my Queen?” he asked.

She grinned mischievously, “Before we surface you need to take my hand. Can you handle the embarrassment?”

He nodded, “Considering we’re both wearing nothing but water I think it will be insignificant.”

The Queen smiled, “Before we surface take my hand and you’ll be fine.”

“Ok.”

She chuckled, “I find your trust in me warming.”

The woman dived under the surface before Alric could reply. He took another breath and swam after her. He caught up with her just below the surface of the water in the cave. It took a supreme effort to look at nothing but her face and hands.

She held out her hand while pointing upwards with the other. He nodded and took her hand. Golden warmth suffused his body at her touch. Together they broke the surface and this time Alric remained unharmed.

The steam was so thick that he could barely see his hand in front of his face let alone his charge next to him. If it was not for her hand in his, he would swear he was alone.

“I’m going to climb out but it’s going to be tricky since you need to keep hold of my hand,” she paused for thought before continuing, “How about you dive under then I climb out? Once I’m out I’ll reach my hand underwater then you can climb out.”

He nodded although he knew she would not see it, “Sounds like a plan.”

“I’ll be right back then.”

A few minutes later they were standing on relatively dry ground hand-in-hand in the steam filled cavern.

Eurealia began to walk away forcing Alric to blindly follow her into the steam. His bare feet scrabbled for purchase on the smooth wet stones but the Queen pressed onward apparently not being affected by the adverse conditions of the cavern.

She suddenly came to a halt, “Can you hear that?”

He listened intently. There was a strange sound in the cavern. It sounded like boiling water. He said as much to the Queen.

“Yes, you’re right. Why don’t you take a couple of steps and look about?”

Alric did so, making sure he was gripping Eurealia’s hand firmly in case he stumbled. He had a feeling he would regret it if he ever let go of her while they were in this cave. The Queen did not follow him forcing him to hold his arm out behind him. He looked down.

It was the source of the steam. About a foot below him was a bubbling pool of water. The heat coming off it was immense, he should be screaming but he was not, the Queen’s hand appeared to be protecting him from the heat.

“Quite something is it not?” said the Queen moving to stand just behind him, “Very few people get to see it as you can probably guess.”

He continued to stare at the pool, “Something to do with the scalding steam?”

She chuckled, “Why don’t you jump in?”

“But won’t I get hurt?” he asked with genuine apprehension.

“What happened to your trust in me?” she teased, “In you go!”

The woman swung her hip into Alric. He cried out as he felt himself falling into the pool. Blind panic overtook him as he felt his wet hand begin to slip out of the Queen’s. He instinctively reached out with his other hand, grabbing Eurealia’s outstretched arm as the other hand lost its grip completely. She yelped as the weight of Alric made her lose her footing causing her to fall also. They both shut their eyes.

They both impacted on the water causing a massive splash. Alric had instinctively tried to make himself as small as possible, unintentionally drawing Eurealia into an embrace. He felt her wonderfully soft body pressed into his as they floated underwater. A second later she pushed off him and swam to the surface. Alric followed, making sure not to lose grip of her hand.

He broke the surface and looked in the direction of the Queen. Most of her face was hidden by her hair so he could not tell what mood she was in.

“I’m so sorry, my Queen,” he began.

She brushed her hair out of her face and smiled, “It’s fine, Alric. It was my fault anyway.”

“As long as you are alright, my Queen.”

Eurealia laughed, “I’m fine. You did a wonderful job of breaking my fall.”

He felt himself blushing. Thankfully his face was already red from the heat so his embarrassment did not really show.

The Queen swam over to an outcropping below the surface. She sat down on it and motioned for Alric to sit next to her.

“I like this place,” she said while looking up into the steam shrouded ceiling, “Its private and one of the few places I’ve ever been to that is hot to me.”

“Why is it so hot in here?” he asked.

“The mountain is a volcano, remember? The water here is close to the volcano’s inner fires.”

“I see.”

The Queen slid down so her chin was touching the surface of the water. She let out a contented sigh, “I could stay here all day.

Alric nodded, “As you wish, my Queen.”

“Oh, if only that were so,” she said with mock drama. She shut her eyes, “We should really go. It has been a while since we set out.” Her eyes opened again, “Come on, let’s go.”

She climbed out with Alric following close behind. With unerring accuracy, the Queen led them through the steam and back into the cool waters of the lake. When they were both under the surface, she let go of Alric’s hand and began to swim to the shore leaving him to follow on his own.

He swam, quickly overtaking her. He clambered onto the shore and looked back out on the lake. Eurealia was stilling swimming towards him.

“There’s a blanket in my saddlebag,” she called, “Could you get it and spread it out on the ground?”

“Yes, my Queen,” he shouted back.

The bodyguard trotted up to the horses and received the blanket. Water dripped from him as he laid the blanket out as instructed. He could feel the sun on his skin.

Some splashing heralded the arrival of the Queen, who walked past him and lay down on the blanket. Alric made sure to look away.

“There’s room for two.”

The man shook his head, “I do not think that would be appropriate, my Queen.”

She sighed in exasperation, “What is with this sudden bout of shyness and where did it come from? I got the impression you were anything but.”

“Only with you, my Queen,” he replied without thinking. It hit him, what he said was true. For some reason he respected her too much to take advantage of her, this was not like him at all. Had she impressed him that much?

The red headed queen laughed, “Stop being so uptight. I’ve gone swimming with all my bodyguards. What makes this any different?”

He shook his head again, “But I am a man.”

“I thought you wanted to prove that it didn’t matter if you were a man or a woman?”

He nodded.

“If that is the case then join me. Besides,” she chuckled, “You’re far too wet to get dressed and go back. The sun will dry you if you have the patience to wait with me.”

Alric sighed, “Very well, my Queen.”

He lay down next to her keeping his gaze firmly up at the sky. It was almost completely clear with no wind to speak of. The hot afternoon sun beat down on his skin.

“Isn’t this more comfortable?” she asked.

“Yes, my Queen.”

“It’s getting rather annoying with you refusing to look at me. You are allowed. After all you will be seeing this much of me at the Trial.”

“Not if some people have anything to do with it,” he clamped his mouth shut when he realised what he was saying.

“Oh?” she said in triumph, “So that’s what they wanted with you.”

The man sighed, “Yes.”

“Well then, Alric. I can assure you that it matters not to me and that I have not given you the respect you have shown me,” she said light-heartedly.

The bodyguard shook his head, “Perhaps, my Queen but you are Queen and I am only a bodyguard.”

The woman sighed in frustration, “Fine then. I order you to look at me.”

Doing as he was instructed, he reluctantly looked at the Queen. She smiled warmly at him when their eyes me. She was propped up on one elbow facing him. Her drenched fiery hair clung to her face and lightly bronzed shoulders. It was surprising how metallic looking her curvaceous body was except for the deep brownish red of her nipples. The sunlight seemed to glint off her bronze skin. It was true, then, that she was not completely human.

An overwhelming desire assailed Alric. He wanted to touch her, to hold her, to kiss her, to make her his. He needed her. She was so beautiful, more so than his wildest dreams, and there they were lying next to each other, naked. Something was wrong, this was more than just simple lust he normally felt – it was deeper and more painful. He felt guilty and ashamed of these feelings he had while looking at her.

For the first time in his life he looked away. His chest felt tight with all the broiling emotions crashing inside him. He needed to get away but he knew he could not leave the Queen alone. Not while she was outside her rooms.

“Are you happy now?” he was surprised at the anger in his own voice.

“What?” she sighed, “For now, I guess. When we’re dry, we’ll get dressed and go back.”

Alric rolled over so his back was facing the woman.

“Yes, my Queen,” he replied mechanically.

He heard her shuffle a little nearer, “I’m…” she hesitated, “glad you’re my bodyguard, Alric.”

“Thank you,” he replied without turning around, “I am honoured by your favour.” He knew what he just said would annoy her but much to his surprise she just sighed.

A few minutes later they both got dressed in silence and returned to their own rooms.

*

Alric tossed and turned in bed. He could not sleep. His mind and heart were saturated with confused and conflicting feelings. This had never happened before. In his arrogance he never considered that such thoughts and feelings were possible – he had been painfully humbled.

You are troubled, Alric, crackled the voice.

He groaned. He really did not need this now.

“I’m not in the mood for this,” he growled.

That is not my concern, hissed the voice, My concern is that you were in the perfect position and you turned away. Why?

“It didn’t feel right,” he muttered into his pillow.

Feelings are irrelevant. You agreed to do this task for me in exchange for your greatest desire. You cannot back away now, said the voice with the threat of a raging inferno.

“I’ll do it, just that the situation this afternoon wasn’t right.”

See that you do, growled the voice, No more excuses.

Alric felt the presence vanish. He breathed a sigh of relief.

Unfortunately, sleep would still not come.

*

It was the day of the Trial by Fire and Alric was sweating. He had managed to avoid Eurealia for the rest of the week leading up to this day but now there was no escape from her. The Queen’s bodyguard was required to be present. In fact, he practically demanded the right a week ago which he regretted now.

The fires of the heart of the Royal Mountain raged around him. He was standing on a pillar in the very centre of it all. Around him all he could see was almost white flames. At his feet was a stairway leading back to the palace and behind him stood a wall that was supposed to protect him from the heat. It did not seem to be working well – he was more sweat than man now.

He stared at the fires where the Queen was supposed to emerge and accept the Fire Cloak from her loyal (Should be female) bodyguard.

It was the same ritual every year. On the day of Trial by Fire, the Queen of the land would pass through the heart fires of the Royal Mountain. Whilst in the fires, she would fight the Demon of the Flames. If she emerged then she had been victorious and the realm would be safe for another year. Should she fail, however, then the Royal Mountain would erupt and destroy the entire country. The Demon had not won for the past four hundred years since the kingdom had been established.

He waited in silence, the only sound being the roaring inferno around and beneath him. Tension settled on him, weighing him down like a lead weight resting on his chest. The Queen would be before him again and he was not sure if he could restrain himself this time.

A flare of golden light dazzled him. He held up his hand to shield his eyes. When he saw her, he felt his jaw fall open.

She was like a fiery goddess. Her hair was nearly as long as she was tall. It flared up and to the side of her dancing around and flickering like a fire. A red golden light emanated from her rippling body. Her golden eyes shone almost blindingly bright. Fire wreathed her body. As the goddess walked towards him it began to fade into the Queen.

“You are so beautiful,” he said breathlessly.

The goddess faded completely leaving the Queen standing before him. She smiled warmly at him but did not utter a word. It was the same friendly and loving smile that had stolen the hearts of her people.

Alric shook his head to stop himself from staring. He approached cautiously with the Fire Cloak he was supposed to use to cover her naked form. She stepped close and allowed him to drape the cloak around her shoulders. He made to stand back but the woman had other ideas.

Eurealia suddenly lunged forwards locking her mouth on his. To his surprise he resisted but eventually he gave in and returned the gesture with all his heart – his tongue darting out to meet hers. She tasted like sweet metal.

They parted a few moments later, not looking at each other, both trying to get their breath back. The Queen drew the shimmering cloak closer around her body. She had a shy content smile on her face.

“We should go out and let everyone know I succeeded.”

Alric nodded but continued to avert his gaze. He felt a warm finger touch his chin, turning his head to look at Eurealia. She gave him a loving smile.

“Are you going to stop avoiding me now?” she asked while still smiling.

He looked into her eyes. It was disturbing how his face was reflected in those shining golden eyes.

“If that is what you want, my Queen.”

“What do you want?” she asked while still holding his chin.

“I,” he hesitated. He wanted to say yes but he was afraid what it would lead to. His associate would want him to say yes. His ambitions wanted him to say yes, his heart wanted him to say yes for different reasons. Yet still he hesitated. He smiled, “I want it too.”

Her smile broadened. “Then I will see you later tonight,” she said quietly.

She let her fingers fall from his face and began to walk down the stairs to bring her kingdom the good news.

The country would stand for another year.

*

Alric paced around in his room. The sun was falling and he knew the time was drawing close. He had never felt so nervous in all his life. Where was the confidence he always had? What was wrong with him?

Images flashed past his mind, of him swimming with Eurealia, lying next to each other on the lakeside, the kiss in the heart of the mountain. She had kissed him so passionately, with more need that he had ever expected. Surely she knew he was a liar? That he deceived everyone around him, except her. She could see right through him and she still wanted him. He did not understand why.

For once he wished the voice was here but he knew he was alone tonight. His associate had told him that it would be gone this night and the next week leaving Alric to his own devices. It was typical that it would be gone on the night he really did need its advice.

He remembered when he first met his associate, exactly a year ago today. Alric had been observing the Trial by Fire that day. Just before the Queen arrived the voice had spoken to him.

You desire something, crackled a voice over the roaring of the mountain’s flames.

“Who’s there?” asked Alric.

Someone who can give you what you want in exchange for a service, whispered the voice.

“Who are you?”

The voice laughed, I am someone who wishes to see the Queen fall and you are a man who seeks immortality.

I can give you what you seek if you will give me what I seek.

Alric laughed, “That isn’t possible. The Queen is too well guarded and loved by her people. I would never live long enough to do such a thing.”

You lie. You know you have the power to do so. Anyone will believe what you say, except for me, hissed the voice.

“You know far too much,” he growled.

The voice sniffed with the sound of a flaring fire, Does it matter if I do? Are you willing to help me in exchange for your greatest desire?

He considered for a moment then nodded, “Yes, I have nothing better to do and what you propose may give me the opportunity to truly test my strength.”

Good, it smouldered, you must first become the Queen’s bodyguard then gain her confidence. When you have done that then I will tell you how to finish it. Then you shall have your reward.

“Sounds good,” he said with an eager grin on his face.

He shook his head. It had been so easy to arrange the death of the Queen’s former bodyguard then use his abilities to easily defeat the candidates for her replacement. Now he truly had the Queen’s confidence but it was all wrong. She should have confidence in the false him, not the real him that no one for years had seen. Her trust in him was hurting him yet it also made him feel so happy. Never before had a person liked his true self and he had to admit that he liked her, perhaps more than liked her.

The sun had sunk completely below the horizon and it was dark now. It was time to go visit Eurealia, his Queen.

With one last check to see if he was presentable, Alric left to go to one of the most dreaded appointments in his life.

*

The maids ushered him into the main bedroom of the Queen’s apartments before leaving. The Queen herself was nowhere to be seen.

The room was a quarter-circle with a large door in one of the straight marble walls. The other straight wall had a large bed resting against it on a raised dais. The floor was made up of alternating black and white tiles that reflected the moonlight filtering through the deep red drapes that covered the glass doors that led out to the terrace on the curved side of the room. A roaring fire burned in a large marble fireplace a few paces to his right. There were a couple of large armchairs sitting in front of the fire.

A few moments later Eurealia arrived pushing her way through one of the red drapes. She looked at him and Alric’s breath caught in his throat. The Queen wore a tight black dress that hugged her figure showing off every beautiful curve on her body. The front of the bodice was held together with silver pins, showing off a little cleavage. Her fiery hair was styled much the same way as it was at the Trial except shorter and down instead of up.

Her black sandals made slight tapping sounds on the tiled floor as she walked over to a table and poured herself a glass of wine.

“Would you like some?” she asked offering a glass to him.

“Thank you, my Queen,” he said taking the glass.

He drank the wine in one go savouring the warmth of the alcohol. The Queen topped up his glass and he drunk another one. His head felt dizzy which was strange - he usually held his drink better than this.

“Do you like it? It’s from the fire elementals so it’s probably a lot stronger than you’re used to,” she said noticing him sway a little.

“It’s very good,” he said while shaking his head trying to get the dizziness to go away.

She nodded, “I’m glad you like it.”

The woman began to walk away towards the centre of the room, her feet now sandal-less. The man followed. His head was beginning to clear a little, thankfully. This night was awkward enough without him being slightly drunk. He cursed his foolishness at drinking an unknown drink so quickly. It must have been his nerves. Why was he being so strange?

He suddenly felt her mouth on his as she pressed her body against him. The bodice pins dug painfully into his chest but he barely noticed it. The passion of her kiss consumed him and he responded with all the strength within his conflicted heart. A few minutes later they parted panting for breath.

“Do you know why I asked you here?” she asked.

He shook his head.

“No man has ever spoken to me like you have. No one has dared let me kiss them or kiss me back,” she looked away her eyes growing moist, “You are the first person to ever treat me like a real person rather than some high and mighty goddess.” She sighed and looked him in the eyes. Her eyes shimmered. Alric’s head was spinning.

“I need to be touched, to be held, to be wanted for who I am rather than what I represent,” she sighed, “I sound so silly. It sounded a lot better in my head.” Her face grew more serious, “But it doesn’t matter. I want you to touch me like I know you want to.”

Her hands went up the first pin on her dress. She made to pull it out but Alric’s cold hands closed around hers preventing her.

“Allow me, my Queen,” he said quietly.

He squeezed her hands before letting them fall. Her face was expressionless.

Slowly he removed the first pin letting it fall to the ground. The tight material parted slightly revealing more cleavage. He looked up at the Queen, who nodded for him to continue. More pins clattered to the floor ever so slowly until the last one tinkled as it hit the floor. Her dress hung open at the front barely concealing her breasts.

They kissed once more both unwilling to stop but eventually they did. Both of their chests heaved as they tried to get their breath back.

Alric’s hands ran up the woman’s chest coming to rest on each of her shoulders underneath the material of her dress. Suddenly he pushed down the length of her arms pulling the dress with him. He brought his hands out leaving the Queen stripped to the waist.

The light of the fire shone from her bronze skin as her chest rose and fell with every breath she took. She stepped forward and helped Alric pull off his shirt. They embraced again. He felt her large soft breasts pushed into his bare chest. She rubbed herself up and down him while their tongues met each other in the embrace. They parted once more.

Alric fell to his knees, his head level with her chest. He reached out and brought the woman closer to him. She gasped as he began to kiss her breasts, his tongue and teeth teasing the nipples into erecting. Her hands held his head to her chest as she urged him on. He could taste that sweet metallic taste as he continued to kiss her.

His hands went to her waist taking hold of the dress she still wore. It began to inch down slowly. The man began to kiss the skin on her hips as his hands continued to pull the dress down slowly inch by inch.

As her dress fell to the ground, Eurealia drew her bodyguard to his feet. She remained expressionless as her hands went down, undoing the belt that held Alric’s breeches up. They fell to the ground leaving Alric completely naked like the Queen.

The two of them kissed once again pressing their bodies into each other as much as possible but still wanting more. As they kissed, Alric backed towards the bed. He tripped sending them both on top of the bed but they continued to kiss regardless. The Queen lay on top of the man as they continued to kiss.

Finally they parted. The Queen rolled off the man and lay down on the bed next to him. The silk sheets felt luxurious against their skin but it was nothing compared to their skins against each other.

“Was it everything you wanted?” he asked breathlessly while sitting up.

She sat up and smiled for the first time this night, “Almost, I require one more thing of you, dear Alric.”

“What would that be?”

She pushed her soft body against his drawing him into an embrace, her head resting against the side his.

“You know what I want,” she whispered.

“Yes, my Eurealia,” he whispered in reply.

He laid his Queen down on the bed and lay down on top of her. Finally they achieved the closeness they sought as they became one.

*

The light of the morning filtered through the red drapes making the white walls of the room shine red and gold. A breeze played through the room causing the drapes to flutter and two people lying naked on the bed, next to each other, to stir. The covers of the bed lay at the side of the bed almost like a red carpet from the door to the bed on its raised dais.

Alric opened his eyes first seeing Eurealia stir as she lay on her back next to him. He smiled at her when her eyes opened. She smiled in return.

“Good morning, my Queen.”

She leaned over and kissed him.

“Good morning,” she said after they had finished before rolling over with her back facing him.

Alric put his arms around her and hugged her back to his chest. Her body felt so warm against his and he did not want to let her get away for as long as possible. He kissed her neck.

“Thank you, Alric. You’ve made me very happy,” she said with far more cheerfulness than she had ever had since they had first met.

“It was my pleasure and duty, my Queen,” replied the bodyguard.

“I hope you didn’t do it for duty,” she said with mock anger.

He laughed, “Believe me, duty had little to do with it,” he began to caress her breasts, “Pleasure was the largest part.”

The Queen giggled, “Stop that, it tickles.”

He redoubled his efforts causing her to giggle more. She kicked against him trying to get out of his embrace but he held her firm. Finally he let go with a yelp of pain when she dug her nails into his arms.

She turned over to face him and grinned mischievously. “I did tell you to stop,” she teased.

“I should know better than to disobey my Queen,” he said with joking humility.

The woman kissed his forehead. “Well you’ve learned your lesson. So I forgive you,” she winked.

“Your mercy knows no bound, my Queen.”

She laughed, “For your sarcasm I think I will need to extract another fine from you.”

The woman moved to sit on Alric. She looked down on him with as much severity as she could muster, “Now pay you dues.”

He smiled, “It will be my pleasure.”

*

The next few days were wonderful.

At day they would maintain the façade of the Queen and her servant. At night he would visit her and they would spend it together before he slipped out, just before the maids returned to wake their Queen. He also used his abilities to cover any possibilities that they may be discovered, although Eurealia did not know about that part of their scheme.

Unfortunately the voice would be returning tonight and then the dream would have to end. That was when the reality would set in and Alric would be forced to make a decision he did not want to. A decision that no one should have to make but it was his own fault for putting himself in this position. He should have known better.

So this night he decided to spend as much time with Eurealia as he possibly could in the hope of delaying the inevitable.

They were sitting together on the terrace staring at the stars. Eurealia sat on Alric’s lap as he hugged her close to him. She was wearing a simple grey dress and he was in his usual dark clothing but at the moment his mind was too troubled to think about how the Queen looked.

“What’s the matter, Alric?” she asked with a look of concern on her face, “You don’t seem very happy tonight.”

He tried a half-hearted smile but failed so instead he shook his head. “I’m fine, just a little unsure of things.”

She sighed and shifted position slightly so she could look at him a little better. Her golden eyes seemed to look straight into his mind. She was silent for a moment before speaking. “What are you unsure of?”

“Am I doing the right thing?”

She smiled, “That is up to you to decide but I don’t think you’re doing the wrong thing for now.”

“How can you be so sure?” he asked with a hint of exasperation. She had no idea of what was on his mind but she was trying to help. He needed to remember that she really did care and to his surprise he cared about her in the same way.

“I can’t but all I can do is hope that you will always do the right thing,” she said before kissing him on the forehead.

“You are the first to ever say that to me,” he said quietly.

She chuckled, “Remember I said I wished to be many of your firsts.”

She rested her head on his shoulder.

“That, my Queen, was a hope that was fulfilled many times,” he said while holding her close to him.

Eurealia smiled, “I’m so very glad,” she whispered.

“I was wondering,” began Alric.

She stirred slightly but did not move, “Wondering what?”

“Why is it that you are forbidden to be with a man?”

The Queen sighed, “They think that I might lose my powers.”

“And did you?”

The braziers on the terrace flared up for a second before dying down again.

“Does that answer your question?” said Eurealia quietly with complete satisfaction. She had still not moved.

“Is that all?” he asked. He was probably pushing her a bit too much but for all he knew this may be the last time they would be able to talk like this.

She sighed in exasperation, “Yes, they’re worried that if I’m not a virgin then when the Fire Elemental comes to me on my thirtieth birthday. He will not accept me and so another Queen will not be born.”

He laughed, “That’s ridiculous.”

“Yes, it is,” she said, some humour returning to her voice.

They both lapsed into silence. Alric continued to stare at the stars as he wrestled with the decision that was coming.

He felt Eurealia drift into sleep and decided that now was the time to leave. The man carefully extricated himself from the woman’s embrace and left her sleeping soundly on the chair.

Alric left the room and returned to his own rooms to make the biggest decision of his life. A decision that he wished sorely he could avoid.

*

You have done very well in my absence, smouldered the voice.

Alric stared out his window at the mass of moonlit towers. He sighed, “I guess so.”

You will finish this tomorrow night when you go to see her again.

“I don’t know if I can,” said Alric in desperation.

The thing roared with the sound of the heart flames of the Royal Mountain, You have no choice. I strengthened your ability so you could get into this position. You owe me and I expect payment.

The man did not look around but continued to stare out of the window, his head resting against the window pane. He did not respond to the voice’s raging except by drinking from a bottle he held.

Do you still with to become immortal? it hissed.

“Yes,” he said quietly.

Then you know what you must do.

“Is it worth it?” the man asked.

Of course it is! You will become immortal greater than human. There is nothing better.

“But I can’t hurt her,” he said sadly while taking another drink.

Liar, you just fear that she will hate you for it before she dies, taunted the voice.

Alric sighed, “Probably.”

Then will you finish it?

He reluctantly nodded, “Yes, yes I will.”

Good, hissed the voice before vanishing.

Alric drank all night until he passed out letting oblivion consume him for now.

*

The next afternoon the guards on the wall did not see the dark clothed figure slip over the Wall and into the city. The massive mob of angry citizens that arrived at the gates of the Wall a few hours later was a big enough distraction that the guards did not notice the figure slip back in.

The mob pounded on the gates demanding to be heard. They shouted that someone had told them the Queen had died and they demanded an answer. Was there kingdom doomed?

No answer came and the mood got ugly. More and more people joined the mob with some bold members beginning to climb the Walls. The reserves of the Royal Guard were called in to man the Wall but even they were pushed with the seething mass of people. They could not harm their own citizens which was making it harder to control them.

Finally, after hours of fruitless attempts at dispersal, the Lord Chamberlin was summoned. He tried to calm the people telling them the Queen was well but they would not listen to him. They demanded to see the Queen with their own eyes and they would accept no other answer.

Alistor shook his head at the madness of it all. Where had this rumour come from? How had this mob formed? The people were mad from rage, this was not natural. It was just like the time of the choosing of Eurealia’s new bodyguard.

He felt his blood run cold.

“Eurealia!” he shouted.

The old man began to sprint back to the castle as fast as his old long legs could carry him. His most dreadful dreams were coming true.

Alric had betrayed them all.

*

The Queen smiled and accepted the glass Alric offered her.

“Thank you, Alric.”

Alric just nodded and took a sip. Eurealia took a sip from her own glass.

Suddenly she began to sway. A look of disbelief and hurt was on her face as she looked at Alric.

“Quickfrost,” she sighed, “Oh, Alric. What have you done?”

The bodyguard caught her as she collapsed into his arms. He picked her up and began to carry her away. His face remained completely expressionless as he began to long trek from the Queen’s apartments to the heart of the Royal Mountain.

All the while the mob demanded to know where the Queen was and the Lord Chamberlin was running desperately towards the palace in the hope of saving his Queen.

He was sadly, already too late.

The end had already begun. Now it was time for the finale.

*

The Queen awoke with a cry when the first nail was driven into her wrist. She cried out again as another one was driven into her other wrist. A third and fourth were driven into her ankles. She hung from a wall amidst a raging inferno.

With a supreme effort the fiery haired woman looked up at her torturer. The monster had his back turned to her. He sat on the overhang above the stairs that led back to the palace. She could not tell if it was shame or content that stopped him from looking at her.

Her powers were gone, weakened by the Quickfrost in her body and the iron nails through her limbs. Alric knew too much about her, even he could not have done this alone. She understood now.

The roaring drowned out her quiet voice as she called to her betrayer. It took all her strength to shout over the noise and make herself heard.

“Alric, why are you doing this?”

The man did not answer except for hunching his shoulders.

“Alric, speak to me,” she said in desperation.

Tears ran freely down her cheeks. Her red dress was being stained a deep crimson from the blood flowing from the wounds in her wrists and ankles.

“So after everything, you still made the wrong choice and served the Demon of the Flame,” she said in a quiet voice that somehow carried over the powerful fires around them.

She coughed, “I thought my love could have swayed you from your path but I was wrong - so very very wrong.

“Alric please help me,” she pleaded before breaking into a coughing fit.

“Alric…” she somehow managed to laugh, “I wonder why I’m still calling your name. You’re not Alric anymore. You’re something else now.”

The Queen sobbed, “How foolish I was to flirt with disaster like I did.

“Alric…”

Her breathing grew shallow as the loss of blood began to take its toll.

“Alric, I’m so cold…” she said despite the overpowering heat of the flames around them.

She smiled.

“I hope you will live happily after this,” she said without a hint of irony.

Everything seemed to go silent for a moment as the Queen began to breathe her last.

“Alric. I. Love. You,” said Eurealia before going still.

Something in Alric snapped when she went silent. He howled in anguish not noticing the subtle changes coming over his body.

“What have I done?” he cried.

Everything you agreed to do, roared the voice in triumph.

“What about me?” he asked.

You are immortal as promised. The guilt you will have to deal with on your own, hissed the voice.

“I don’t think I could live with this guilt for all time,” he said sadly.

The voice laughed scornfully, Well I could do something to help you.

Alric looked up, “Anything.”

Are you sure?

“Yes.”

Very well.

The man screamed as something was ripped from his body straight out of his chest. Slowly the guilt bled out of him along with whatever the demon was pulling out of him. He began to forget what he had felt only a few moments ago. When the pain subsided the man began to laugh. So did the demon.

You have no soul now. You cannot feel guilt and now you serve me, hissed the demon.

“No immortal shall ever serve you, demon,” said a voice.

Alric looked up and saw a grey figure standing at the head of the stairs. He could not make up his mind if it was a man or a woman. It was certainly not human with its grey skin, eyes and hair.

What are you doing here? asked the voice in fear.

“You broke the terms of the pact,” said the figure in a matter-of-fact tone.

The demon snorted, It was an unfair pact.

“A pact is a pact, no matter if it was fair or not,” replied the grey haired thing.

It matters not. You cannot do anything except in self-defence and I am not foolish enough to attack you.

The figure nodded, “That’s why I brought an immortal with me.”

The heart fires suddenly went out as a figure walked through them.

No, screamed the demon before fading from existence.

Alric looked around but could not feel the demon anywhere around him. Were these two people so powerful that they defeated the demon without pausing for breath? He stayed on his knees while staring at the two figures.

The figure was slender white haired woman. She wore white armoured boots with tight white hide shorts with the right leg cutaway and a see-through white top that only concealed her breasts because of the frost formed on it. She wore a belt around her waist with an armour plates on her hips. Plate mail encased her right hand and a massive sword was strapped across her back.

“Who are you?” asked Alric in anger.

This thing imitated his Queen. Her presence was offensive. How dare it walk through the heart flames of the Royal Mountain? That was reserved only for the Queen of the land – his Queen. His love.

The white haired woman looked at him with disgust on her face, “I am the Ice Queen.”

Alric drew his sword and charged the woman. “There is only one Queen!” he screamed.

The woman expertly sidestepped out of the way before delivering a powerful punch to his chin with her armoured hand. She was the first person to hit him in combat in years. He was not used to getting hit. It hurt.

He fell back. His foot landed on nothing but air as Alric began to fall into the lava below them all. A freezing hand grabbed him by the neck preventing him from falling.

The Ice Queen held him out over the precipice.

“Liars get thrust down to hell,” she said with anger in her voice.

A grey hand touched the shoulder of the white haired woman.

“An immortal cannot kill another immortal,” it said.

The woman sighed, “Very well.

“Know this fool. You will always serve me. I am your Queen now and you would do well not betray me like you did your last Queen.”

Alric nodded, “Yes… my Queen.”

The Ice Queen smiled, “Good. Your abilities are impressive but you lack finesse. I will teach you that, servant.”

“My name is Alric,” snarled the man

“You are immortal,” said the grey figure, “Alric was your mortal name. You have a new name now. I name you the Deceiver of Men. You will always be a liar amongst men. All men will hate you and fear you. You will never know love again.”

“Who are you?” asked the Deceiver of Men.

“I am The Other.”

There were running footsteps coming from the stairway below them.

“The Lord Chamberlin comes,” said The Other, “We must go.”

All three of them vanished leaving the corpse of Eurealia hanging all alone on the wall in the heart of the Royal Mountain in a country far away.