The Kingdom of Cebrae: A Magical Love Story

Chapter One

A New Beginning

The small passenger plane circled the island at a low altitude. From the air, it looked like a big Yeti footprint. Addie, her nose stuck to the window, was amazed at the diversity of the landscape. This was the first time she was actually able to view the island on a grand scale as it had been dark every other trip she had taken. On the northwest coast were steep cliffs which gave way to thick forests as you looked inward. Coming around clockwise, she saw the shipping yards and docks filled with trawlers and ships. It appeared to be rather quiet. She turned to Kolyn puzzled.

What day is it today?

Monday, the 26th of May, he replied broodingly. The lack of activity had not escaped him either.

She looked at him thoughtfully for a moment and then went back to her survey of the island. The landscape had turned into gently sloping plains covered in various crops with clusters of little houses dotting them. The south and southeast coast was one huge beach and she could see many small yachts and sail boats either docked or moving about in the bay.

Then she spotted the sand-coloured castle standing proudly with its red-tiled towers and roof. It was situated about five kilometres inward from the east end of the island on a naturally formed plateau. Facing southeast, it seemed to be standing guard over the conglomeration of houses, hotels and the many other buildings composing the small city sprawled at the foot of the island.

This is our home, she thought proudly heaving a deep sigh of happiness as the plane headed towards the landing strip.

We’re home, Kolyn said softly against her cheek, his chin resting on her shoulder.

She turned to look in his deep blue eyes, joy and excitement written all over her face. The honeymoon may have been technically over but for her, it was the start of a new adventure. Being married to Kolyn, Prince Regent of the Kingdom of Cebrae was definitely a factor and although she sensed that there would be challenges they would have to face and possibly difficult decisions they would have to make, there was nothing and no one that could prevail over their love for each other. Together, they were a force to be reckoned with. Their uncanny knack of voicing the same thought at the same time, the way they operated on the same wavelength and their honesty with each other made them an unbeatable team.

The unmistakable pride and joy in his eyes and his breathtaking smile made her feel warm all over. Leaning forward, she touched her lips to his, soft as a butterfly alighting.

"Home is where you are, my beloved Kolyn, whether it’s a castle or a hut in the middle of the forest—I love you!"

His eyes blazed with love in response. Knowing that you love me for myself makes my heart want to explode with happiness.

Just then the plane thumped on the runway causing their lips to bump together quite unexpectedly. Their eyes locked in surprise and Addie burst into giggles. Kolyn smiled devilishly imagining various other such scenarios.

It seemed like half the kingdom was there to welcome them back. Cheers went up from the large crowd as they came down the ramp, Kolyn in the lead. When Addie joined him on solid ground, he raised their linked hands as a salute to the people of the island. A thunderous cheer and applause greeted that simple gesture. A little girl timidly approached them with a large bouquet of flowers which she solemnly handed to Addie.

Thank-you, these are beautiful, she said graciously giving the little girl a hug. What is your name?

Annik, she replied with a shy smile.

Well, Annik, I hope there will also be flowers for you one day, she told her with a big smile.

Pleased as a button, the little girl beamed and turned to her mother with a huge smile on her face. Her task having been acquitted admirably, she skipped alongside her mother as they joined the well-wishers once again.

Kolyn was also beaming as he gave Addie’s hand a gentle squeeze. She is such a natural at this—like she was born to it. I am so proud of her!

The four of them slowly made their way to the limo waiting to take them to the castle. Kolyn shook hands and greeted many by name. He was well loved and respected by all. "He really cares for his people, Addie thought, and the feeling seems reciprocated."

They neared a small group of men standing a bit apart from the rest as if they didn’t belong there or didn’t feel comfortable somehow. They were fishermen. Kolyn purposefully guided her toward them and in a guarded but respectful tone, introduced her to the Chief of Fisheries. He was a lean, muscled man with a trim beard and moustache. He seemed to be of Basque origins.

Addie extended her hand and he took it after a slight hesitation. She looked up in his dark brown eyes and sucked in her breath in shock. There was such a mixture of emotions, it stunned her—pain, loss, bitterness. They stood there for a brief moment not speaking, just looking at each other. She sensed he was holding his emotions in check with a will of iron.

Her heart went out to this man and knowing he didn’t want to be sympathized with, she simply nodded her understanding and said gently, I’m pleased to meet you.

He blinked and replied, Likewise, Princess, and withdrew his hand abruptly as if he had just been burned, sticking it safely in his pocket.

As they moved away from the men, Addie gripped Kolyn’s hand, strangely affected by this encounter, a thousand questions running through her mind. What happened? Why is he hurting so? Why was he here today? What’s going on with the fishing industry?—

She became aware that Kolyn was gently rubbing her hand with his thumb. Feeling somewhat comforted, she smiled at him briefly, knowing that he understood and would fill her in later.

Jo and Trinity were already in the car when they took their place on the bench across from them. Although it was a very warm day, Addie shivered and moved closer to Kolyn as if to draw warmth from his body. He smiled into her eyes as he hugged her closer.

I’m so proud of you! I don’t recall ever being met by such a large crowd as this so they must have come for you.

Kolyn, the people of Cebrae love and respect you and feel very protective toward you. I think they just wanted to make sure you chose the right wife and that you’re happy. You see, I still need to prove myself… to them.

The bewilderment in his eyes made her smile.

Addie’s right, Jo concurred with a grin. We’re like the new kids on the block and that means we’re going to have to prove our worth before they let us be part of the gang.

Kolyn’s gaze flickered from one to the other, his eyebrows practically touching as he tried to readjust his perspective on this. It was such an 180˚ flip, he felt slightly disoriented and his face mirrored exactly that. His expression was so funny in its confusion that all three girls burst out laughing.

Slightly put out, he was nonetheless starting to see their point of view plus he had inadvertently achieved something else. Addie is smiling again and seems to be over the incident with the Chief of Fisheries.

I see, he said with a slow smile, looks like I’m outnumbered on this one.

Uh-huh! declared Jo and Addie at the same time, both of them still grinning at him.

Conceding that they had the rights of the matter, he announced with a wider smile, All right then, let the games begin!

The limo wound its way through the back road climbing steadily. The trail, as it was barely wide enough to allow two cars to pass each other, was lined with tall trees for most of the way. As they topped the last crest, Addie was struck by the beauty of the castle. With the sun shining on its pale walls, it seemed to shimmer in the light. It reminded her of a picture she had seen in a book once of Camelot.

Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she turned to look at Kolyn. It is so beautiful! she said in wonder.

Yes! he replied proudly. This castle although it has since been totally renovated inside and out was built about 800 years ago keeping in mind the devastating storms that beset the island at certain times of the year. It is a veritable fortress against the elements and has offered refuge to many over the years.

How often do you get these storms? asked Jo interestedly.

They occur often during the winter months from November to January but usually there’s only one or two that are of any consequence. The staff is well drilled and the castle is stocked up with additional provisions in preparation for such emergencies.

"There is so much to learn about this new life. I wonder if Jo and I could get some tutoring to teach us what we need to know. I want to be useful if something does come up," reflected Addie as she looked at him thoughtfully.

I’ll make sure you two get the instruction necessary to handle life in a castle, he smiled, startling her to no end.

Amazed at his uncanny ability to pick up her thoughts, Addie started laughing softly. Kolyn smiled knowingly but Jo looked at her perplexed not seeing anything in his comment that should elicit such amusement until she explained. I was just thinking we needed tutoring on this sort of stuff.

Nodding in understanding, Jo grinned and declared, I don’t know why you two bother to talk!

We like to hear the sound of our voices, Addie said smiling back at her.

As the car pulled up on the circular drive, Kolyn noted with satisfaction that his staff was all there eagerly awaiting their arrival. His father, along with Mr and Mrs Dubois were just descending the front steps, big smiles on their faces. Four of the Guardians were also there standing at the top of the semi-circle.

They made their way toward the King amidst cheers and greetings from those assembled.

Hello, Father.

Welcome home, Son, he replied embracing him. Then turning to Addie, he smiled brightly and said, You look radiant, my dear. Welcome home!

Thank-you, Father. It’s good to be home, she said giving him a big hug. Her beautiful green eyes were shining with happiness as she looked at him fondly.

Following the many hugs, kisses and handshakes, Kolyn took Addie’s hand gently and led her up the steps. Pausing at the door, he said softly, Welcome home, Addie. There was such tenderness and love in his deep blue eyes, she felt her knees go weak.

Unexpectedly, he scooped her up and crossed the threshold to the cheers of the small crowd. Grinning, he said, It’s tradition! Putting her back on her feet, he squeezed her against his heart and murmured, I love you, my beautiful wife.

His lips were soft and tender as he kissed her. Addie’s treacherous body responded all out of proportion. Fire in her limbs, she clung to him, a deep hunger in her eyes. His suggestive smile made her blush delicately as she took stock of where they were. Her eyes twinkled as she said softly, I love you, Kolyn!

The rest of the day was declared holiday since no one was to discuss kingdom business—that would start on the morrow at 10 am with a briefing from the King and the Guardians. Addie was thankful as she wanted to re-familiarize herself with her surroundings, see Zeus and visit with her friends.

During dinner, the king was amazed at the difference it made having Kolyn and Addie back. Their very presence seemed to raise the tone of the whole castle. Maybe it’ll wear off in a few days, but I seriously doubt it. Since Addie has come here at the end of March, their influence has increased exponentially. There is something about them that simply brings out the best in people. I don’t recall ever feeling so positive about the future!

As if they could read his thoughts, they both looked at him at that moment and smiled. The confidence and quiet power exuding from them totally confirmed his optimism.

Since the next day was going to be a busy one, they all retired fairly early. After tucking in Trinity, Kolyn and Addie headed to their own quarters. For some reason, she felt nervous and excited at the same time. This had been Kolyn’s quarters for so long she wasn’t sure what to expect. It felt a bit like encroaching on someone’s territory but as he opened the door, he said, This is our space, Addie and I want you to feel free to make it home for you too. Your belongings have been moved here already but you can change things around as you see fit.

Thank-you, she said with a wide smile, but for now, things will stay as they are since I wouldn’t even know what to change. I wouldn’t mind a quick tour though.

I’ll be happy to serve as your tour guide, he offered pleasantly, but first, I’ll demonstrate for you the general layout. Clasping her hand, he led her to a nearby sofa and settled down next to her.

Our quarters are essentially a self-contained suite with a kitchen, a place to entertain guests, a small office space, bedroom and washroom.

Angling the rectangular place mat that was lying on the coffee table, he explained, The whole castle is facing southeast with each corner extended by a couple of meters. There’s also a lookout tower in the centre of the castle. At this point, he placed four square coasters over each corner so that they were sticking out over the edges. We are in the southwest tower which means that from the kitchen, you will be able to see the sun rise, from the living room keep tabs on the forest and from the bedroom watch the sun set over the bay.

Addie raised her head to look at Kolyn, her eyes sparkling with interest. This castle is so beautiful and friendly. I’m impressed by the thoughtfulness that went into designing it. Some castles you read about seem so cold and gloomy.

It’s even more beautiful and warm since you arrived, he declared hugging her shoulders. Smiling, he got up and held out his hand. Are you ready for your tour?

The kitchen with its warm coloured walls and tiled floor was quite homey. A standard-size table with four comfortable chairs was positioned near the window with a built-in fridge and stove at the opposite end of the room. The light wood cabinets blended in nicely with the walls making the room seem bigger. As Addie looked around she could already visualize a few minor changes she would make. It does need a bit of a feminine touch, she decided with a slight smile.

Kolyn’s deep blue eyes were twinkling as he observed, As you can see, I’ve been a bachelor far too long.

Chuckling, she said, You’re reading my mind again!

Wrapping his arms around her, he smiled into her beautiful green eyes and pointed out cheerfully, Addie, I just love you very much and we understand each other so well you don’t have to be a wizard to know what the other is thinking.

I really do like the sound of your voice though, she declared giving him a light kiss.

Laughing, he said, Let’s continue the tour, shall we?

The small office had two comfortable chairs ideal for curling up with a good book of which there were several in the small library. On the desk was a computer which Kolyn said was hooked up to the internet, and to her surprise, a framed photo of herself. How did he get that?

Courtesy of Jo, he said tenderly. I was so lonely those first months without you here and I wanted to see you every day, he added softly.

I wish I would have thought of that! The only thing that kept me going was your promise to come back for me. Sometimes, after I’d get one of your loving e-mails, it was more than I could bear and… I’d cry myself to sleep, she whispered into his shoulder.

Shaking his head at all the unnecessary pain that had been caused, he hugged her close wondering if things could have been done differently. I can’t change the past but I can certainly make our future wonderful!

My sweet and tender girl, I wish I had been there to kiss your tears away but then there would have been no need for them, right? he said trying to lighten the mood.

Addie gave him a dazzling smile. Right! The other times I’d feel warm and fuzzy thinking of your kisses and being held in your arms and I’d fall asleep dreaming of you.

Um mm—I think we should finish the tour rapidly! he said as he slowly moved his lips against hers.

She shifted her body sensuously against his as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Forget the tour—I have a better idea, she murmured suggestively against his lips.

Instant heat built up between them and he knew that he had better stop now if they didn’t want to end up on the plush office carpet. Turning her by the shoulders, he silently led her across the living room to the bedroom.

Addie had seen the bedroom once before on the night Trinity had been abducted but she had been in no state to appreciate any part of it at the time. And tonight, she only had eyes for Kolyn. The love she felt for him was so great her heart couldn’t hold it in and she felt herself go out of her head. Her whole body was tingling with sensation as they undressed each other, his deep blue eyes burning into hers.

As he joined her body and soul, her happiness knew no bounds. The love and peace they shared expanded out over the castle and into the stars.

Chapter Two

Routines

Addie woke up early and quietly got out of bed not wanting to wake Kolyn who was still sleeping peacefully. Rapidly donning her robe, she headed to the kitchen. He said I could see the sun in the morning. There was sufficient light in the kitchen to prevent her from stubbing a toe and as she made it to the window, she was astounded by the beauty of the sunrise. Enchanted, she stood there watching the sun creep up over the horizon, the morning pinks slowly fading away. Finally a ray of sunshine burst into the room. Pushing the table aside, she slowly began to twirl in the shaft of light, her arms outstretched, head tilted back with her eyes half closed.

Kolyn found her dancing in the light like a forest nymph, her long blond hair glinting as it caught the sunlight. Spellbound, he revelled in her grace and beauty, his deep blue eyes soft and tender. Noiselessly, he crossed the intervening space and wrapped his arms around her, matching her steps.

Kolyn! she breathed. The love in her beautiful green eyes sent his heart in his throat as he lowered his head to kiss her upturned face. Coming to a stop, he caressed her warm silken hair, his happiness knowing no bounds.

Good morning, Princess, he said tenderly.

Good morning, Kolyn, she responded with a dazzling smile. You can really see the sun from here and the sunrise was spectacular!

Yes, my little wood nymph! he said, once again reminded of her love for the simple and natural things in life. Would you like to go for a walk with me before breakfast?

I’d love to and we could take Zeus along. I’m pretty sure he’ll be ecstatic!

No doubt! he agreed wryly. All right then, let’s get dressed and head out!

The walk-in closet was huge but she managed to find a pair of jeans and a top and was ready in a very short time. Taking in her form-fitting jeans, Kolyn gave her an enigmatic glance as he silently handed her a light windbreaker. We’re going to have to adjust her wardrobe in a few months.

They quietly made their way out of the castle and headed to the greenhouse where Zeus slept at night. When they opened the door, he was already there waiting for them. He shot past them only to spin around and come racing back at full speed, barking in ecstasy.

Hush, you little monster, said Addie affectionately as she gave him a hug. You’ll wake everyone up!

He followed her in as she went to get his leash, trotting nicely at her side and sat quietly enough while she attached it, looking at her with adoring eyes. She was surprised when he heeled beautifully, not tugging on the leash in the least.

Has someone been training him? she asked curiously.

Not that I know of unless Sean has. He certainly didn’t behave that well yesterday when I took him out! he disclosed with a grin.

They walked a short distance from the greenhouse and stopped in order to decide which direction to take. Addie looked at Zeus and he promptly sat on his haunches. Puzzled by his exemplary behaviour, she turned to question Kolyn again but he was standing there his eyes wide with surprise.

What did you just do to make him sit? he asked in amazement.

Nothing—I just looked at him. I was thinking he should sit though.

"You were thinking he should sit?" he repeated in a daze. For a moment, he stared at her and then started chuckling, his deep blue eyes twinkling with merriment.

What’s so funny? she asked, a little put out.

Addie, he said as he took her in his arms, you are absolutely amazing! You either can communicate with animals or he can read your mind!

Startled by his observation, she stood there wondering if this had ever happened before when all of a sudden she broke out in a fit of laughter. It was his turn to be put out.

With tears in her eyes, she explained, It’s a good thing I didn’t try that with Nolan when I first met him on the sidewalk!

Immediately seeing the hilarity of getting Nolan to sit, he burst out laughing. It was all they could do to stay upright as their imagination ran wild. Wiping the tears from their eyes, they stood facing each other, exhilarated.

I have so much fun with you, Addie, he declared pressing a kiss to her temple. Catching her hand, he added, Come, I will show you my favourite spot on this island. It’s about a 20-minute walk from here.

The walk was mostly uphill as they crossed the airport road and entered the forest. Addie was starting to feel the heat in her legs when Kolyn suddenly announced that they were almost there. She heard the rush of a waterfall and felt a change in the air even though they were still surrounded by tall trees with huge trunks.

Addie, close your eyes, he requested as he moved in front of her blocking her view. It’s only a few more feet and I will guide you.

Trusting him, she held out her hand and closed her eyes. Unable to resist, Kolyn lowered his dark head and softly touched his lips to hers in a brief kiss. A sweet smile formed on her lips but she didn’t open her eyes.

Holding her hand securely, he led her about 3 meters and then, moving behind her, his arms securely wrapped about her waist, whispered against her cheek, Okay, my love, you may open your eyes.

Her beautiful green eyes opened wide in wonder as she took in the scene in front of her. Wo-o-w! she whispered reverently not wanting to disturb the peace of this little oasis.

The cliffs had abruptly ended and a small waterfall was delicately misting the air around them as it fell some 8-10 meters. Encircling the pool formed at the bottom of the fall were tall trees holding out long strands of vines gently swaying in the light breeze. But what took her breath away were the banks. Pale lavender and white flowers covered the bed of deep green moss which reached into the clear pool.

This is so beautiful, she whispered in awe. Where does the water come from?

That’s a good question. I tried to follow it to its source once, but it didn’t go very far. About 300 meters that way, he said pointing northwest, the water comes out of the cliff face. There must be an interesting rock formation under these cliffs causing sufficient pressure to create this small waterfall.

Wanting to get an even better view, she looked back at Kolyn and asked, Is it safe to go near the edge?

He assured her it was rock solid and that he would often sit dangling his legs over the edge. As they took a step in that direction, Zeus, who had collapsed at her feet earlier, suddenly stood on all fours watching her warily. Another step and he was whimpering and whining in protest. Wondering what was bothering him, she glanced back at him and he let out one sharp warning bark.

I don’t think he’s too happy with you going in this direction, Kolyn commented.

Smiling at the puppy’s protest, they nonetheless took another step toward the cliff’s edge. At that, Zeus ran to her and grabbed the heel of her running shoe in his mouth, growling furiously as he tried to pull her back.

Puzzled and slightly concerned, she asked, What’s wrong Zeus? In response, he let go of her heel and scurried in front of her, pressing his shaking body against her legs.

Addie started backing up cautiously, dragging Kolyn with her till they were a little further back than from where they had started. Sitting down, she petted the trembling dog. You’re trying to protect me, she murmured. He licked her hand, his dark eyes liquid soft as he looked at her.

Sitting down next to her, Kolyn was very thoughtful as he pulled out an apple from his pocket. Deftly, he cut it in half with his jackknife and silently handed a piece to Addie. I’m going to come back and check out this ledge. It’s been over a year since I was here last.

Thanks, she said absentmindedly, biting into her piece. Animals are very sensitive to danger. I wonder if the ledge is not as safe as it seems. He was very upset.

This place is really quite peaceful, she remarked, feeling better after eating her apple. How did you find it?

I was nine years old. It was the summer before my last year at the boarding school. My father was mostly ignoring me; I had no one to play with and was quite miserable. I had decided to run away and find some adventure of my own so I set out through the forest with a little backpack filled with goodies I had stolen from the kitchen, my knife and a water bottle. I was lost in no time. It seemed like every tree was like every other tree, he said chuckling at the memory. I was quite discouraged as I sat munching on my umpteenth Oreo cookie. That’s when I heard the water. I ended up staying by the pool for most of the afternoon when I realized it would be dark soon. Somehow, I found my way to the coastline by following a creek. Half the kingdom was looking for me by then. Let’s just say that I was effectively grounded after that little escapade. I actually got a lot of people in trouble that time, he concluded ruefully.

Addie chuckled, Let’s hope our kids are not that miserable they wish to run away on an island.

You sure have a way of putting things in perspective, he said laughing. Getting up, he pulled Addie to her feet and into his arms. I could stay here with you all day but we need to have breakfast and then there’s the meeting at 10.

Coiling her arms around his neck, she kissed him tenderly and said, Thank-you for showing me this beautiful place. I really enjoyed this time with you.

My wonderful wife, the pleasure is all mine, he murmured against her lips. Every day we will spend some time together, just the two of us… and maybe Zeus, he promised contentedly.

Grasping her hand firmly in his, he led the way out of the forest. They had gone only a short ways when Addie confided out of the blue, I’m glad you didn’t send Trinity to a boarding school.

Me too—but I’m curious as to why you feel that way.

Pausing, she said, I think it would have been very hard on her. She’s very bright, for one, and that alone would have set her apart plus she’s extremely sensitive to others’ emotions whether good or bad. Children—and adults too, I guess—can be quite mean when they sense that someone is different. Her beautiful green eyes bore into his as she continued softly. But the thing that would have been the most devastating for her is that she thinks the world of you and it would have broken her heart to be separated from her father.

Overwhelmed by her understanding, Kolyn mutely cradled Addie in his arms, unable to voice anything for the lump in his throat. Gently caressing her jaw with his thumb, he whispered, Addie, every day I find more and more reasons to love you. It would also break my heart to be separated from my daughter but I think I would die if I couldn’t be with you.

Cupping his handsome face in her hands, she whispered fiercely, I don’t think I could bear to be away from you, her eyes bright with emotion. I love you so much, Kolyn!

No matter how many times she told him, the effect was always the same. As he touched his lips to hers, his chest expanded trying to contain the love in his heart but failing, he exploded out of his head. Addie was waiting for him and as they united, a feeling of serenity and timelessness enveloped them.

A sharp yip brought them back to planet Earth. Hands linked, they peacefully continued their journey back to the castle.

Can I tell others about this special place? she asked.

Yes, but not until I check out the safety of that ledge, he said. I wouldn’t want anyone getting hurt.

Okay—I won’t mention it until you tell me it’s safe.

Knowing that checking it out wasn’t without some risk, her unquestioning acceptance to his proposed endeavour surprised him.

Aren’t you going to tell me to be careful or that it’s too dangerous or something?

Laughing gently, she said, No—I imagine you’ve already figured out how you’re going to handle it and I trust you to keep yourself safe.

Smiling at her, he said, You’re right on both counts!

They had almost reached the airport road when he said, Your vote of confidence really got me thinking.

She glanced at him inquiringly.

"You see, when I give an order, it is usually followed implicitly as they all know I would never order something that would endanger someone. Also, I choose who I give my orders to knowing it is in their capacity or realm of activity to get done. But when I decide I want to do something a little out of the ordinary with possibly an element of risk or danger, I immediately get half a dozen people trying to dissuade me of the idea, pointing out the potential dangers, reminding me that I’m a prince and heir and so on to ad infinitum. By the time they’re done, I’m not interested in doing it anymore. Taking a breath, he continued, Now, your unconditional acceptance of my plans has put me in an incredibly good mood. I feel smart, capable and above all like a MAN—not a prince, not an heir! It is so liberating!"

By the time he was done talking, he was practically prancing with joy. Hauling Addie against his lean body, he kissed her soundly declaring, You are good for the soul!

Laughing like kids plotting on how to get in trouble, they finally reached their destination and dropped off Zeus at the greenhouse. After making sure he had food and water, they met up with Sean who was just arriving.

Have you been giving Zeus obedience lessons? she asked him after the usual morning greetings.

Not at all, Princess. I wouldn’t know where to start, he admitted honestly.

She glanced at Kolyn who was just grinning widely, looking extremely pleased about something. Sean looked from one to the other, puzzled.

Why? Did he do something wrong?

Not in the least—in fact, he behaved extremely well for Addie this morning, Kolyn said giving her a smug smile.

Wrinkling her nose at him, she warned jokingly, Don’t you dare spread rumours about me!

He gave Sean a wink and said, "They have an uncanine ability to understand each other!"

At that, Addie grabbed his hand, laughing. Come on—let’s go eat. I’m starved.

Leaving Sean staring after them, they went in for breakfast. Jo, Trinity and the Dubois were just sitting down for breakfast when they arrived. The discussion was lively and animated. Apparently, the Dubois were also attending the meeting at 10. Trinity pouted when Kolyn told her she couldn’t come.

I don’t want to do my classes this morning! she protested.

Addie winked at him thinking, "Let me handle this." He smiled broadly and sat back in his chair leaving it in her capable hands. He had no doubt she wouldn’t give in to his daughter’s whims and he also knew that everyone would be happy with whatever compromise reached.

Trinity, are you thinking of dropping your classes because you want to spend time with us? she asked shrewdly.

With a sad, pathetic look that would have melted the coldest heart, she nodded wordlessly. Fully understanding her desire, Addie felt empathy for her daughter. Being an only child had not been easy but her mother had always made time in her busy schedule to do things with her. Those were the most precious memories of her childhood. Now, I’m her mother.

Choosing her words carefully as she didn’t want to make promises she couldn’t keep, she said, This morning’s schedule will remain as planned—you go to your classes and we go to our meeting. But this afternoon, I’d like to spend some time with just you. Maybe you can think of something you’d like to do.

Beaming at the thought of having Addie to herself, she jumped off her chair and hugged her about the waist.

Thank-you, Mommy! I’ll think of something. Happy with the way things had turn out, she looked at her father and announced seriously, I should get ready for my classes, now.

The pride and joy in his deep blue eyes was unmistakable and it took all of his willpower not to start laughing.

Giving her a bright smile, he asked, Can I have a hug too?

Laughing, she threw herself in his arms and hugged him fiercely. I love you, Papa and I love Addie! she whispered.

Dropping a kiss on top of her head, he whispered back, I love you too, my precious daughter.

Contented, she left the room humming a tune under her breath. Mr and Mrs Dubois smiled knowingly at each other. That was a great solution. She is so perceptive! Jo, on the other hand, was looking at Addie wistfully.

Kolyn, said Addie, breaking the peaceful silence, I don’t mean to put you on the spot but I have a special request.

Raising an eyebrow, he nodded for her to continue.

She caught Jo’s eye before saying, We didn’t get to finish our last few months of school and I was wondering if—.

—you could finish it here, he concluded for her. I was wondering when you’d bring that up! Seeing their surprised expressions, he winked at Mr Dubois and announced smugly, We took the liberty of contacting your school and arrangements have been made for both of you to complete your final year through correspondence. You just need to log on!

The girls erupted in cheers. After the most suitable and appropriate thanks to Kolyn and Jo’s parents, they split up to get ready for the meeting.

Chapter Three

Briefings

Excited at being included in her first official briefing on the Kingdom of Cebrae, she was practically skipping alongside Kolyn. Amused, he clasped her hand tighter as they made their way to the King’s quarters where, apparently, there was a room set up for just that purpose.

When she entered, she stopped short causing Jo to run into her.

Sorry, she said automatically as she moved out of the way, her whole attention riveted on the room.

It was airy and beautifully decorated but her first impression was that of a boardroom set up for an army general or a High Council somewhere. Dead centre was a huge oval mahogany table with sixteen high backed chairs, each place equipped with a small laptop. Her eyes popped when she took in the large relief map of the island. It really does look like a huge footprint with missing toes and a deformed heel, she thought with a smile. There was a map of the world next to it dotted with various coloured markers and adjacent to that hung a white projection screen probably for PowerPoint presentations given the hi-tech equipment she had also noted. This is so modern! I guess it’s time my retrograde view of castles came up to the 21st century! Slowly pivoting on her heels, she noted a beverage bar with several easy chairs nicely arranged near it.

With a hint of a grin, she turned wide eyes on Kolyn and gave him a silent Wow!

Impressed? he asked in a quiet voice, his eyes twinkling with amusement at her reaction. She broke into a huge smile and nodded.

Since all those expected at this meeting had now arrived, they took their seats. The King sat at one end with Kolyn on his right followed by Addie. On his left sat Mr Dubois, Mrs Dubois and Jo. Dimitri took his place at the other end of the oval with three Guardians to a side. There was also the Captain of the Royal Guard sitting next to Addie, and his Second.

The King stood and addressed the group. Welcome to this semi-annual meeting. In deference to Princess Addie and the Dubois, we will be going into more details than usual so that they may gain a complete understanding of where things are at in the Kingdom. As per our meeting policies, any questions, opinions or suggestions are welcome once the presentation by a particular Guardian is completed. The visuals will be projected on the large screen but you may also view them simultaneously on your laptop. Should we not be done by noon, we will take a half hour lunch break which will be served here. At this point, he turned the proceedings over to Dimitri.

Thank-you, Sir. We will begin with Nolan’s report. He is in charge of welcoming new arrivals to the island, the communication lines between the castle and the Cebraeans as well as to our continental contacts, plus the general overseeing of the conduct and ethical running of the various businesses.

Your Majesty, ladies and gentleman, Nolan began, "the island’s population has remained around the 5000 mark for the past two years. Before that point, there was a steady 10-15% increase annually. There is probably room for about 10,000 inhabitants. Our communication lines are good with 95% of the businesses now having converted to the use of computers and the internet to conduct their affairs. The shuttle boat and our two airplanes have been accident-free for the last year in their twice daily trips to