Grand Palace

“Kethadria is enjoying a precedent time of peace and prosperity. Our people are happy and one of the most innovative virtuous empires in the world lingers just beneath our heels. We rule an empire with endless possibilities, an empire that the gods themselves wouldn’t dare trifle with. The sky weeps and bows to our prominence... and bellows a thunderous song at our enemies. The Symphony of life has never been in a more joyous state. However... the Myceneans threaten our way of life. The balance we have so ruthlessly fought for will be disrupted if we do not take immediate action. War is imminent. While our defenses stand impeccable, that does not keep dark clouds from gathering. I impose the 41st division, comprised of the largest fleet ever to be assembled. We cannot take chances. If we do not double up on our protection to the North, this will be just one more advantage the Myceneans will seize, exploiting our weaknesses at every turn. Our allies around the globe, I pray you will join me in this precaution... the waters in which my goddess so valiantly protects is the only thing that stands between us and them. They will not gain passage.” The room was engulfed in silence, and a cold eerie tinge was sent spiraling up the spines of everyone who sat so notoriously in their seats – now slouching a bit and losing an ounce of certainty in their king’s sanity. From highly ranked generals, admirals, to captains and simple members of the council, they all shared the same bewildered expression as they began to glance at one another. Even the warm steamy froth they bathed in was beginning to go cold, but just as all hope seemed to be lost, one of the admirals impulsively let a loud chuckle echo throughout the large hall. King Minos shared in the laughter, the jolly aging man trying to lighten the mood some – which the royal bath house had failed to do. He knew the diversionary maneuver was a radical decision, so he had invited the members of his cabinet and war council to the warm waters of his private chamber, trying to loosen them up and force them to budge.

The rest of the room still sharing looks of unease, they all wryly smiled at one another in order to join in on the fun – not wanting to be left out. All of them sufficing a mocking chortle, the room finally clamored down as one of the admirals began to break the ice. "Oh my king, you're never too light on the jokes. But really, why have you called us here? Surely there must be many more pressing matters than the Myceneans..." Unable to even finish the last trailing words, another chuckle escaped the man's lips before he could finish. "They are a primitive existence, a civilization of barbarians and pirates. They would stand no chance against our armada nonetheless the defenses that surround our waters. A small fraction of our forces could easy dismant-." Before he could finish, the king scolded the man, grimacing and rudely interrupting him. "This is not a suggestion admiral! It is a direct order from your king. I do not care what power the Myceneans possess. I will not let my kingdom be trampled by mindless beasts when I turn my back but for a second."

"I think what the admiral means is that it would be a waste to dispense our strongest fleet when they are better served guarding our borders. The Myceneans are no more a threat to us than your average street rat on the prowl. Our defenses alone are enough to fight off anyone that tries to land on our shores. You waste your words my king. I'd be more worried about treason and heresy than a senseless war." One of the generals spoke out in response, one of the very few to now question King Minos. Everyone else only shared faint murmurs, words not meant for prying ears. Reluctantly, at last, a high-up member of the council found his voice. "Sire, I'm inclined to agree. We do not need to be engaging in a war; especially one that offers no advantage but death and wide-swept fear. Myceneans have yet to attack us or even make an attempt, and if we set up such boundaries at their expense, it would make our allies and the rest of the world get suspicious at its intent. We are no tyrants and if anything, we need to gain trust not lose it. War is the least of our problems. What we should be focusing our attention on is Egypt. She is our most beloved ally but Ramses has unfortunately... been experiencing a decline in health. He is quite old and the gods only know how much he has left to offer. But to the point, he has yet to find a suitable heir. If we were to risk relations with Egypt, that could been catastrophe for our way of life."

"I suppose you are right... damn Ramses - getting old on me so soon. Where have the years gone... ? Even looking at myself in the mirror I'm sickened by how I'm cursed to see my face marred by such lines (wrinkles). Even though all of you present me with plausible claims, I will stand by my decision. The order is to be executed without delay. I expect MY armada to be shipped out at dawn... and admiral; I want you to lead it." His words following a smirk painted over his features, he winked pompously before going on about business. "I would like to meet with the ambassador for Egypt to talk terms of Ramses finding a reliable successor. The future of both of our empires hangs on a fine line not yet drawn to precision." Everyone only nodded and grunted in unison, agreeing with the - outrageous - whims of their king.

The sound of glasses clanging together and boasts being made, the doors swung open fiercely as King Minos' most loyal advisor briskly burst through. Narrowing eyes, the king found himself seeping out from the lukewarm water, his body bare as he eyed Zerek menacingly. "And what is the meaning of this intrusion Zerek? You know it is not proper nor your place to be here." King Minos said with some hostility to the tone of his voice. Usually he wouldn't mind so much, however due to the circumstances of the vital meeting he was hosting, he didn't want any unneeded distractions. "Please forgive me my lord..." The man stuttered, clearly drawn of breath and drained as he leaned against the wall, a hand clutching his chest as he tried to recollect himself and gain control over his lungs. "There is word from Simin. The temple has been set ablaze... the damage is currently minor but extinguishing the flames has proved to be difficult. Some sort of enchantment has made water literally useless. Simin is currently trying to take care of the problem as well as discover who is at fault." Snarling and spitting on the floor as a sign of distaste, King Minos pulled his robe off one of the nearby chairs - where it had been hanging. Slipping it on, he swiftly spun around to face Zerek again. "Gifted! Blessed by the gods? I don't think so. Should have had them slaughtered the moment they stepped from from the labyrinth. All they do is cause trouble. Didn't I put them in the hands of Simin to keep these sorts of things from happening?" Fire burning in the king's eyes, his fingers curled inward to form fists, containing his impatience.

"I want whoever is responsible found! Better yet, send the royal guard themselves spilling into the streets. We're not so much looking for a person, but a pair of eyes." It was obvious that a gifted was solely to blame, and wherever they were, their eyes were a key feature in separating them from the general population. "I shall make preparations presently. Do you wish for me to send word to Simin?" Stroking his beard and lost in his sea of thoughts, the king hummed softly, considering the course of action he was going to take. "Better yet, I wish to speak to Simin directly. Summon her and tell her not to keep me waiting. The person who caused such a commotion will be dealt with in time, but as far as I can tell, Simin should be equally implicated. Our friendship is the only thing that has stilled my tongue thus long. Besides, this dilemma is not the only thing I wish to discuss with her; so, I require solitude. No guards or servants are to attend. Have the throne room cleared before I arrive."

"As is your will my lord..." Zerek respectfully bowing, he turned his back to King Minos and was sent darting back the way he came, making his way to the main hall to make arrangements.

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Eternity, a word that brought much promise and brought much dismay as well. It was inevitable in the way of life similar to birth and death. However, this one word specifically encompasses the reclusive and mysterious queen of Kethadria whom was looking towards the busy metropolis at the balcony. Everyone around her had aged and showed growth both physically and mentally. Yet, time had not touched her in any form even if she wanted it silently. It was a trait of humanity that she could not hope to obtain. Although, it was also something she finds comfort in. Because, she would be able to spend a wonderful lifetime with the companion she had chosen. It was worth it despite the names and heinous rumors being assigned to her by the people. There was nothing that could shake her will as long as she has "Him" by her side. Nothing at all, this is what she believes in fervently.

"Your Highness, it is not healthy for you to stay too long outside. The King would be in much rage if anything happens to you!"

Purple eyes averted from the scenery of the bustling town below to gaze at the person who had interrupted her moment of solitude. It was an elderly female servant that had been able to find her. She should commend her great effort in being able to find her. Most of the time, they would not be able to until she chooses to show herself. However, there are times her silent contemplation would be halted just like now. Taking her time to study the servant that had found her, she could tell that the elderly woman was fearful yet worried. Maybe, the knowledge of King Minos punishing them if anything happens to her inflicted such terror. However, the worried expression was more like towards a daughter or a loved one. It was not befitting for her. After all, everyone in Kethadria had always viewed her as an eccentric being and an object that should be avoided due to her unknown background. Notably, it pique her curiosity about being treated in such manner by a a person not related to her other than profession.

Adding to that, she is much more of child than an authority inside the palace. Despite the title of being Queen, she had never done anything that would warrant such admiration in politics, public service or military except for her exceptional beauty and mysterious aging process that seemed to have stopped. If she would think about it, she only had cause troubles for the servants and guards that worked inside the palace. Pasiphaë does have the penchant of strolling on her own clearly disregarding her status on most occasions. In once scenario, she had almost been kidnapped by insurgents. It could be one of the main reasons that her husband had deemed her to be confined within the palace. Although, she clearly disagree on that. She was more fitted to be free like a wind unchained by the restrictions of her status. However, the King would think otherwise and would lead for them to argue about it. Thus, she would occasionally slip from her guards and luckily they were lax due to the council meeting her husband had issued. The only thing that she certainly knew that was going to be discussed would be war. There was nothing more important than to secure power, glory and fame in a brutal manner. Personally, she dislikes such thoughts.

"My Lady Pasiphaë, please come with me inside. You would be more comfortable there than here."

The said servant bowed to her with much respect as she politely looked at her with such plea to return inside the palace. It seemed that everyone had the constant idea that she had a weak constitution due to her assumed "disability" which was being a mute. This was why everyone looked at her pitifully and useless. In her opinion, it was something that could not be avoided for she does not have enough courage to overcome her own identity as of now. However, she would not let those kind of gazes and words consume her will. Closing her eyes monetarily, she gave the female servant a courteous nod and began to return inside. In that moment, a flash of thundering sound and heat filled the once calm winds. Swiftly returning to the balcony, she could see the holy temple being desecrated by flames. This was truly ominous in many ways. Uneasiness filled her entire being, the Gifted were there and in a specific way. She cared about those children eventhough Minos reprimands her for it. For her, there was nothing that can be done about it.

"My Lady, we should come inside now. It is not safe here anymore!"

A hand sternly grabbed her wrist as she gazed at the elderly servant. She knew that the female only wanted to ensure her safety however, she had something to be sure of. Prying the hand upon her skin with gentleness yet with great strength, her eyes of purple had an apologetic tone upon it as she darted towards the chambers of her husband. She knew that her sudden intrusion would cause a lot of unwanted attention. However, she had the feeling that Minos might harm a Gifted knowing the possibility that this incident was caused by one. Pasiphaë knew how much those children had suffered already. There was no need for more pain. In her haste, she did not notice that she had passed Zerek while the trailing calls of servants that were now alerted of her plausible actions followed her with much desperation. Yet, their pleas fell on deaf ear as she opened the doors to where the meeting was being held with much force as she stood in the entrance with a very stern look upon her beautiful face. Her very image seemed to radiate a raging tenacity that glorified her elegant and gentle looks which had been raised to breathtaking. However, the next events that unfold had yet to be seen as her amaranthine eyes gazed at Minos with a resolve that cannot be solved. It seemed the rumors of her being meek and docile were all mere illusions.

The young princess slowly wandered across the palace gardens. After spending all her life at the palace she knew every single corner, every single flower in garden. Her only desire was to see the world beyond the palace. She didn’t understand that her father wanted to keep her safe. Her only friend was her elder sister Ariadne. The only times she saw the city was when the royal family went to prey at the grand temple. When Ariadne refused to obey their father’s orders she was confined to her chambers, leaving Athellia completely alone. She kept thinking about her father’s cruelty for hours. She didn’t even notice that it was already dusk.

"Your grace, I beg that you to return to the palace. The night winds might carry illness".

But she just sat there quietly. Her servant girls begged her to go inside and then she could not take it any longer.

"Why should I go back into my 'prison'? So that my 'loving' father would confine me as he did my sister? Why?!Why should I obey his every whim? In all my life I never even saw the outside world!"

Then the princess burst in to tears and ran inside. She quickly made it to her bedroom cambers and hoped that her father would believe that she is asleep. After he 'imprisoned' Ariadne she began to truly fear him. She avoided him as she could. And then it came to her. The only person equal to her father and that would listen to her was her mother.

"Dawn came. The morning sunlight slowly spread across the chambers. The light gently touched her face. The princess slowly opened her eyes. She then rose from her bed and opened the doors to the gardens. The sky was every color of red and pink, orange and yellow, the flowers all slowly opening, the gentle sea breeze blowing in the air. She could hear the servants doing their work. Far in the sea she saw foreign ships coming towards the harbor. She then went inside her room to get dressed. As she put on robes with the royal colors and her jewelry she overheard some of the counselors talking about the last group of people sacrificed to the Minotaur. She didn’t understand why they needed to sacrifice so many people to that beast. Each year almost a hundred people become sacrifices. She then left her chambers. As she walked through the hallways she noticed that the throne room was locked.

"There you are, your Grace. I am to escort you to your mother so that you may leave for the Grand Temple. This way your Grace."

The servant girl walked her to the queen’s chambers and left. As the princess entered she couldn't help but ask “why the throne room was sealed”. The queen replied that an urgent meeting was called by the king. Then she smiled at her daughter and took her hand. The two then left for the Grand Temple of Light" ... A dream, a memory intact of a time when tranquility was dominant. The dream seemed so real. So much time has passed that it really does seem like a dream and not a memory.

Just as he edged towards the warm pool and got his feet wet, he was yet again interrupted; but rather than lashing out in protest like he had done with Zerek, he found the words in his throat inescapable. Almost tripping over his robe, a loud groan parted from his mouth as he sunk to his knees, sincerely taking Queen Pasiphaë’s hand and lightly resting his lips over her warm smooth skin. “My love...” King Minos replied subtly, overjoyed to be in the coaxing company of his cherished wife. "This is... abominable! Zerek was one thing, but a war meeting interrupted by... that woman? Not in all my years have I seen such-!" The admiral snapped, trying to find just one more reason to get back at King Minos for his daftness - not to mention having assigned the admiral to lead the armada that was to defend the northern border of Kethadria. Reluctantly, the king cut in before the admiral could complete his train of thought. "You forget your place admiral! She is your queen and you will revere her as much if not more than myself! All you are is jealous anyway that I have such an enticing creature at my side. We all know your wife-."

"Yes! I think every man in this room knows his wife. As a matter of fact, I don't think there is one man in Kethadria that has yet to-." Before he could finish, "Hell, I think my wife knows his wife! Not even Atiatu was spared. When it comes to knowing someone up-close and personal, his wife is definitely-." Everyone was eager to poke fun at the admiral, but just before everything began to fall apart and the bustling tongues of his cabinet sprang loose, King Minos was quick to jump back in. "Silence! You are in the presence of a lady after all. You will show her the respect she deserves. This meeting is over. And admiral, if you could, send your wife my way, I'd love to join the club. If the whole city is doi-." Queen Pasiphaë shot him a death glare in mid-sentence, and King Minos only snickered teasingly as he gazed up at her - purposely testing her for a reaction. "Okay, meeting adjourned. Please wait until I leave before taking your time getting out boys. I wouldn't want my wife scarred from seeing what a real man doesn't look like." Their faces grew flushed as they all shifted around, turning their backs to the king shyly as if forgetting they were in the company of the most beautiful woman in Kethadria.

Lacing his arm around his wife's, he walked her into the hall, and one good look in her eyes told him more than words ever could. "Funny... you can't speak yet those eyes tell a story only I can read." It was true, stories of his queen having been cursed by the gods, the Symphony of life having deprived from her something very important - her voice. Her eternal youth and beauty had come with a tragic price, one in which King Minos would sacrifice his very throne to see made right. ”I know what you’re thinking... that I’m an old fool to blame a bunch of children. You know my heart better than anyone. We have been mated for life my queen... and although the gods stole your voice from my ears, your desires are clear. I had no intention on punishing a child, but watching Kethadria sink into anarchy is something I will not stand for. When I became king, I had to surrender a many great things to prevent from seeing my father's kingdom burn itself to the ground. And what happens? The gods bless me with these gifted... and besides escaping, one of them decided to set the temple on fire. That is heresy and an offense I will not handle delicately."

His feet froze in place as he came to a halt, standing there aimlessly like an idiot for over a minute before gracefully gripping his queen's waist, tipping her back and holding her just inches from the floor. Hunching forward, his lips leaned in and passionately claimed hers, rekindling a fire that had been dormant for too long. "I know that you probably hate me for what I've done... ordering you and even our daughters to be confined to the walls of the palace. It was a selfish act my love. If anything were to happen to you I don't know what I'd do with my life. None of this is worth having or experiencing if alone; and I wouldn't dream of being with anyone else. My life would be undone if you were not a part of it. As long as it is in my power to keep you from being taken from me, I will exercise it. However, the bigger crime is that not as a king, but a husband, I have been too busy for my own wife. This will change. Tonight, you can consider me all yours. I'll be sure to give a proper apology. That is... only if you'll have me."

The mere touch of his lips upon the skin of her hand made shivers of delight be felt all over her body. Despite such, she did not forget why she had dared to disturb a council meeting showing her audacity. It was expected most would criticize the King about her manners. Her eyes of purple orbs gazed momentarily at the main perpetrator who was known as the admiral. Great disgust was the only emotion she has towards the man. His looks of lust when he would conclude no one was baring witness to his inner desires had been very noticeable to its object whom was the Queen. However as of now, he was using her as a tool to degrade the her husband. She would not have any of that as she gave the admiral a very threatening glare which if interpreted in words would mean death.

The situation did not further grow as the subject was quickly changed about the admiral's wife. She was never the kind to believe in the words of others until she would meet the person. It was her certain code of morality thus, she did not like hearing of other people being badmouth even if it was for her own betterment. Holding Minos' hands with a sudden grip, she wanted him to stop such horrible things being said. After all, she was also a female and would understand how humiliating it could be to hear such rude commentaries. As expected her husband knew what she wanted as he silence everyone, the beautiful Queen was about to be relieved about it not until Minos made a crude remark of being to "do" the admiral's wife. In retaliation, she gave him a very cold death glare. If it was possible to kill with a mere look, the King should be dead by now.

Noticing her violent reaction to his words, he immediately snickered about it as she gave out a childish pout. Her outward show of emotions made her more enticing to those who had gazed upon her. However, her most priceless expression would be when Minos reminded the men soaked in the warm waters of the bathe that they had a lady in their midst. It was at that moment she had finally return to the reality of things. She was inside a room filled with naked men. The said Queen wanted to melt herself in embarrassment. Her cheeks were madly in the hue of red as she covered her face with her hands. This was the result of her reckless deeds that had come out of her being too emotional at times. She only felt Minos' arm around her waist as she was lead to the hall as she presumed. Upon arrival, she removed her hands as her eyes were now being looked at by her husband.

His words were spoken by a true King and she understood it. However, the kind Queen only wanted for the possible Gifted to be not sentenced to death or any more heart-wrenching punishments. There must be a reason for such a fire to occur. The temple had been under the care of the Oracle Simin and she knew her personally to be a very gentle soul. Such harsh reactions from the Gifted should be very minimal under the care of the Oracle. Putting her hands in prayer and placing it close to her chest, her amaranthine eyes showed her hope for a consideration or a thorough investigation the very least before delivering a capital verdict. She did have a certain belief that the initiator of the fire was too young to be sent to the depths of endless darkness. In addition, she was greatly opposed about it. If she would need to leave the palace to prevent it, she would without hesitation. Although, her actions would break the King's heart.

Pasiphaë did not anticipate the next events as she found herself being kissed with such fervent passion along with her form almost touching the floor. In the arms of the man she loves, there was no question about her being completely helpless. It made her heart beat so fast that she could faint with the overflowing happiness filling every fiber of her being. Closing her eyes as she drowned herself in such a feeling, Minos had finally relinquished his ownership upon her lips. The said Queen opened her eyes as she stared at him with such a hazy gaze as if she had consumed liquor. Furthermore, his words made her so fortunate. If he spoke it like that, she could not help but relent her ferocity about being confined. Yet, Pasiphaë had never been the kind to simply abide. She knew that her husband knew about this. For now, they should enjoy the moment of peace as he promised for the night. In answer, she placed her hands upon his cheeks and gave such a enchanted smile. After doing so, she kissed him with such gentle fierceness as if saying, he would be the only one she would love for eternity.