Once gone, I take this opportunity to decipher who the insurgent is. When a young man in a godly robe meets my eyes, it seems my search is over. He nods once and disappears into the hallway.
This is my small window of opportunity. So without a moment to waste, I discreetly stand, not wanting to draw any attention, and follow the man into the hallway. I pass a guard who is hidden in the shadows, too busy to notice me, thanks to the woman on her knees in front of him.
The man has his back turned, but spins when he hears me approaching him. “Forgive the secrecy, my queen, but we do not have much time. I am Brother Maurice, and I come for Benedict, sent by the abbot. Benedict and his brother, Bartow, have been in the care of the monastery. We raised both boys with goodness in their hearts and the name of the Lord on their lips. Word has spread that Benedict has been captured and that you have denounced your throne. I cannot imagine this was a decision you made willingly.
“The abbot has influence in the church and is pushing back on your decision. We cannot allow Aethelbald to rule. England will be destroyed.”
I grip the gold crucifix around my throat. It appears that the Lord hasn’t abandoned me just yet. “So the pushback from the church is because of the abbot’s influence?”
“Yes. Please know that we support you and are doing everything we can to stop Aethelbald. The church will not agree to any of Aethelbald's terms. So please bide your time until he is stopped. The fate of England depends on it.”
Clasping Brother Maurice’s hands, I nod. “As God is my witness, I will. But please be quick, for I fear we are running out of time.”
Brother Maurice nods. “I will send word as soon as I can. Until then, please keep Benedict safe. He is nothing like his father. He was raised in the image of the Lord, and he sought you out to help.
“He does not wish to defy you. Only to be recognized as your kin. He looks up to you, my Queen. You have destroyed stereotypes and overthrown those who have challenged you. He is on your side and only wishes to be your confidant. As well as your nephew.”
I don’t sense any deceit in Brother Maurice’s words. And being a man of the Lord, I trust him. It’s because of the monastery that Aethelbald’s plans have been put on hold.
It seems my decision to imprison my nephews has worked in my favor. I don’t question whether this is a coincidence or divine intervention. Whatever the reason, we now have the upper hand.
Brother Maurice quickly escapes undetected whilst I compose myself.
I need to play nice until we can take Aethelbald down.
Ironically, my brother destroyed me repeatedly, yet it’s because of his son that I am now saved. It’s as if life has come full circle because even when this is done and over with, I still do not want the throne. Plagued with who should rule, I now see who the rightful ruler should be.
Benedict.
Things suddenly do not feel so dire.
I quickly make my way back to the great hall. I breathe out a sigh of relief when Aethelbald has not yet returned. I retake my seat and take in the lewd actions of the drunken men before me. Under Aethelbald’s rule, these men have reverted to uncouth beasts.
They engage in lascivious acts with women who should have more respect for themselves. My palace is a brothel.
Woe is me.
“Admiring my strapping army?” Aethelbald asks as he sits beside me.
I don’t bother with a response.
He places his hand on my thigh and squeezes. “Who was the man you were speaking with?”
I remain composed. “It appears you cannot handle your liquor.”
“Do not patronize me.”
“Get your hand off me this instant.”
I attempt to stand, but he gestures with his chin that I’m to be restrained by two soldiers. They place their hands on my shoulders, holding me down.
“What are you doing?”
“You will tell me what the brother wanted, or so help me God, you will be punished for your defiance.”
“Words I have heard before from your kin, and how did that end for them?” I can’t hold my tongue, which I know will cost me.
I am yanked up and dragged through the grand hall. I don’t fight. Or scream. If this is my time to meet my maker, then let it be with my head held high.
