Page 22 of Beast and Remedy
“Let’s get settled in first before we jump straight into problem-solving. Besides, I’m sure my advisors will have it handled before I even return,” my father says.
The Prince of Palaena nods. “Of course. Let me show you to your rooms and where we can gather within the hour.”
I grind my teeth as Marian and I follow Papa and Prince Jonas, who immediately engage in discussions about the weather and the list of guests attending this evening’s event. I relax a fraction, listening in foronename.
My ribs grow tight as the prince lists off attendants, my breath restricting before even going up the first staircase when I don’t hearhisname mentioned.
And when I peer to the King and Queen of Palaena, I can’t help but linger on the note my father received from Jean and Pierre.
My magic heightens, and I rub my arms in earnest, wanting to dismiss it but still putting my faith in the Makers to keep our kingdom safe.
Letum, the Deity of Death, and Yeva, the Deity of Life, are celebrated for the duration of winter in Draymenk with balls, festivals, or other gatherings, depending which kingdom you reside in. But the most common tradition throughout all five kingdoms is the lantern ceremony during the Celebration of Spirits.
Every person chooses which Maker they wish to honor, dedicating protection toward passed-on loved ones or future loved ones before lighting and lifting a lantern into the sky.
When I was young, Papa and Mama taught us to make a wish. And even now, at my nine-and-twenty age, I still make my own wish. One I’ve repeated for years.
The chance to be with him.
A crisp breeze prickles my exposed flesh as I light my lantern and lift it. My mahogany waves blow in front of my vision, and I tuck them back as the beacon rises, floating to join its companions in the dark-purple-hazed starlight.
Many of the other guests return to the ballroom as I watch, tremors running through me. But I can’t rip my eyes away from my wish-filled lantern swirling and colliding with others.
I gather my thick green cloak, hugging myself as I marvel at the beauty of my world, the beauty of this tradition, and the beauty of love so many extend to loved ones and the Makers.
Footsteps sound to my left, and I am caught off guard by Queen Tove.
She wears a diadem of white gold and cerulean sapphires, carved into circles, and her silver plaited hair cushions the crown. The gems highlight her ice-blue irises and her matching long-sleeved gown.
Even with pregnancy, her curves fill the dress nicely, and the small swell of her belly creates an aura of light around her.
Her dark-pink-stained lips lift into a sincere smile. “Princess Vivienne, I was hoping we might have a moment to talk.”
I glance past her, noting her husband guiding everyone but the two of us inside. Trepidation coils in my chest, and I tighten my grip on my cloak, not wishing to remain outside any longer.
“I never got the chance to thank you for the herbs and medicine you suggested I have made for my cycles,” she adds quickly.
I’m taken aback, much like the first time she approached me a few years ago.
Papa and the queen discussed my studies and interests in healing and medicine during one of their visits, and she had reached out privately, asking if I knew of anything apart from what her healers give her to assist with spasms and painful cycles.
Her experience was heartbreaking, reminding me how drastically a woman’s monthly bleeding could vary. I offered her remedies I curated for myself and Marian and even provided tonics my sister and I have used to avoid pregnancy.
But knowing her role, where she also might be tasked with furthering her family’s legacy, I included ingredients that could increase her chances of having a child should she and her partner ever wish it.
“Oh, there’s no need, Your Majesty. I was happy to help,” I say awkwardly, wanting to escape, fearful she will see right through me as another royal with magic.
I would die of mortification if she ever found out what I saw all those years ago.
She cradles her stomach, looking down as she presses her lips together. “I was wondering if you had any tips that could help with my pregnancy?”
“Oh!” I startle, relief washing over me and my eagerness to help drive forward. “What are your symptoms?”
She caves her shoulders inwardly. “Well, the usual nausea in the mornings, which my healers have medicine for. But I don’t have much for the back pain and the swelling in my legs.” She lifts her skirts, pointing her foot out. “And I was also worried about the labor itself. If there might be anything I can do to prepare for it?”
I look over her leg, noting the inflammation with surprise. “I see.”
She seems very early along, her stomach barely showing. Although, given her painful cycles, she is valid in having concerns. Her healers should have some insight.
