The Forgotten

Chapter 1

"You are a princess," mother spoke into my shoulder. Her words a warm breath against my cheek. "And royals do not cry."

She pulled away to inspect me, her forced smile failing to reach her eyes that appeared more blue from the red raw that edged them. Clearly, royals cried, just not in front of others.

"Be a good girl for Vega at Granger House." She narrowed her gaze. "Learn as much as you can. Study hard, read lots of books, become a strong rider. Learn all the things needed to become a proper lady for when you return to court."

I looked down, knowing it was goodbye.

Mother lifted my chin, "I'll come and visit you with the new baby. How does that sound my love? Papa, your little brother, and I."

I nodded in obedience. Horses trotted up, a carriage in tow. Mother struggled to her feet.

Lady's maids rushed to her side.

Papa wasn't there to help her up.

"I am fine," she said as she made it to her stance, maneuvering her swollen belly under layers of fur and gown. Gingerly, she fixed the crown atop her head, Highthorn Castle a shadow looming behind her.

The frigid wind whipped her hair into a fury, as fat snowflakes stuck to her raven locks. Mother would remain forever frozen in that moment, like the snow-covered ground on that frostbitten day.

"Come now, Princess Elowyn," said Vega, with an outstretched hand that led me to the waiting carriage.

Too little to climb up myself, Vega scooped me up with ease and placed me safely inside and returned to mother.

"Take care of her, Vey."

"Of course, your Majesty," Vega bowed, but mother pulled her into a long embrace. It was the last they would share.

Then, without another word, Vega turned and walked to the carriage. She held her chin high despite the frown tugging on her lips. She boarded, horses huffed, and we lurched forward.

I jumped to the window for one last look at mother, hoping a wave goodbye would stop her from forcing smiles or crying in secret. I watched as she grew smaller and smaller and smaller.

No one ever came to visit me at Granger House. No Mother, no Papa, and no baby.

**

"We're late, Elowyn," Vega said through spent breath, over the sound of our clipped heels.

"I wouldn't be late if I didn't have to dress up in this ridiculous garb." I muttered, pulling at the maroon brocade bodice that bit into my ribs.

Laughter shrilled down the wide hall. The scent of mulled wine and crackling pork skin followed suit.

Twenty years had passed since I'd last walked Highthorn Castle. I hardly remembered it, being barely a child when I left. Yet its memory haunted me every day I was away. My father's deafening silence only deepening that dread. Then his letter arrived.

Elowyn,

Queen Jane and I welcome you to Castle Highthorn for the Yule Day feast. We expect your arrival tomorrow morning.

Great be the Guardians,

King Eadric Blackthorn

It was the first letter he had ever sent me directly. I wasn't sure to feel hopeful or afraid for my life. But I knew he wouldn't easily welcome me back into the fold. No matter how hard Vega tried to convince us both the contrary. But if I was clever, and played my poorly dealt cards right, maybe I could gain a foothold within his court.