The way it is to go

Three

I woke in my bed once more. I looked around and saw that it was either the same day or a different day. For it looked as if no time had passed at all. I stood and walked out to mothers room and knocked. "You may enter, dear." I cracked the door, "Mother? You sound tired. Is it okay if I come in and lay with you for a little." "Of course, my child. Come lay here." She patted the spot next to her. "Are you okay? You passed out again. I know you heard about Ruby. I'm so sorry my love." She played with the short strands of hair that fell in front of my face.  "I'll be okay. I know she's in my heart. She'll always be there, mom. Watching over me. She's now my guardian angel." I looked up to the ceiling and closed my eyes, as I said that and I felt her presence. Mother hugged me, "I'm glad. Now, you go eat something. And that's not a request, it's an order. I love you, my son." She kissed my hairline and then put her glasses back on. I knew what she was doing was important, so I left her to be alone. I smiled, blew her a kiss, and walked out.

I made my way to the kitchen. It would do me good to say hello to our staff as well as eat with them. As I opened the doors, they all looked towards me and curtsied or bowed. I shook my head, "There is no need to do that." They stood and murmured an apology. I knew I had to smile and bring light to their days, so I did just that. "Hello, my beautiful people." With open arms, I sat down and chuckled. "What are we cooking today? I could go for a snack if you all haven't eaten yet." They seemed at ease now. The head chef came over, "Sir! It is so good to see you today. What can we make for you?" I waved my hand in the air, "You make whatever you please! Surprise me." He looked quite pleased that I said that and I smiled.

    I sat there as they danced around the kitchen, all working in sync. I found it beautiful. They talked softly to each other person a bit as well. Not just about the food, but about their lives. I had to do this more often. In less than an hour the head chef came to me with a plate of food. I inhaled the scent and sighed, I was dazed. It smelt like a sweet cinnamon and pineapple. The meat on the plate was glazed and the mashed potatoes looked so fluffy they could float. One of the women handed me a fork and giggled. "Is it possible to get a drink as well?" I chuckled. Another young lady pipped up, "Of course, Sir!" She brought over a fizzy clear liquid. I eyed her, "What is this that you bring to me?" She blushed, "It's just the best soda water out there! We have our flavors to put in that give it such a rich taste!" I smiled and took a sip. The bubbly sensation in my mouth was wonderful. I laughed, "I love it!! I'll be coming down for a snack more often!" They all murmured their thanks and went to work to prepare for our actual lunch.

I told my parents I wouldn't be coming down for lunch because I had already eaten with the staff and they were pleased. I decided to walk down the halls of my home and think to myself. I wouldn't tear the whole castle down, just the dungeons, and turn them into rooms or safe places. I'd want to upgrade the village homes, make them nicer for my people. I came across my room and walked to my balcony. I missed Ruby, so much. I asked not to have a replacement maid, for no one could replace her. I'd just have the butler that checks in on me here and there. That's all I needed. I decided to walk out to the battlefield. I hoped mother and father wouldn't get upset with me for doing so.

Walking through the village, I said hello to those who were outside. Then I walked past Ruby's old home. I didn't know if I should stop and talk to her husband or not. What he did was wrong. I decided it was best not to, at least not for now. I continued to the battlefield, wanting some pure peace. As I walked out I scanned the area. No one was there with me. I walked to the middle and sat down. This was the place I was where I thought I found my soulmate, and that I did. I knew I should check in with Victoria, especially because I want a life with her one day. I wished Ruby were here so I could tell her about it. I sighed and spoke aloud. "I miss you." I kind of scoffed and chuckled at the same time. A single tear fell on my face. I let it fall to the dry dirt of the battlefield. Sighing, I stood and headed home. The sun was setting and dinner would be served soon.