{"id":2701,"date":"2022-09-25T08:50:49","date_gmt":"2022-09-25T13:50:49","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/?p=2701"},"modified":"2022-09-27T10:34:43","modified_gmt":"2022-09-27T15:34:43","slug":"luck-lucky-part-15","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/?p=2701","title":{"rendered":"Luck Lucky – Part 15"},"content":{"rendered":"

Luck Lucky<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

by AJ Marks<\/span><\/p>\n

Part 15: A Lucky Civil War<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Gwen looked at the sunlight stream into the room.\u00a0 It had taken some time for Zoe to fall asleep.\u00a0 She took the loss of her mother hard.\u00a0 Gwen recalled the loss of her own parents and how hard that had been.\u00a0 Her position at the time made it even worse, due to her position in the Royal Family.<\/p>\n

Gwen softly stroked Zoe\u2019s back.\u00a0 Her mind drifted to everything that happened last night.\u00a0 So many new questions, especially considering the fact that the King seemed to have left the town along with his son, Derek.<\/p>\n

Movement from Zoe refocused her attention back down, watching the girl wake up, slightly confused at first.\u00a0 She looked down into green eyes, waiting for what might happen next.\u00a0 Zoe snuggled closer giving Gwen a squeeze before finally loosening her hold.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not fair,\u201d Zoe finally said.\u00a0 \u201cI just found my mother, and that happened.\u00a0 I am unlucky personally.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo you\u2019re not,\u201d Gwen said firmly, watching the green eyes look up at her, in pain.\u00a0 \u201cYou were lucky to have even met your mom, many orphans never do.\u00a0 She never stopped loving you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe gave me up,\u201d Zoe said, in a small strained voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd did you ask her about that?\u201d Gwen asked, softly rubbing Zoe\u2019s back.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Zoe replied.\u00a0 \u201cSaid she didn\u2019t want her bad luck to affect me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe say anything about your father?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe was killed before I was born, she said it was due to her bad luck.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen she gave you up, she didn\u2019t know you\u2019d have good luck.\u00a0 She wanted what any parent wanted for their child, happiness.\u00a0 And she felt your best opportunity to know happiness was to not know her,\u201d Gwen said, not fully understanding that, but in her brief conversation with the woman, she felt that\u2019s what the woman did.\u00a0 \u201cShe told me she never stopped thinking about you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen waited for a second, but a knock on the door interrupted any reply.\u00a0 Glancing at the door and then back at Zoe she waited until they knocked again.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you up empress?\u201d a person\u2019s voice said.\u00a0 Gwen frowned at the name wondering where that came from.<\/p>\n

Getting out of the bed, wrapping a sheet around her and went to the door, yanking it open to see a member of the Royal Guard standing there.\u00a0 He looked slack-jawed at her, probably due to her appearance.\u00a0 She watched as he looked from her to the bed, where Zoe lay.<\/p>\n

\u201cUm.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWho are you calling empress?\u201d Gwen asked, getting his attention back on her and not Zoe.\u00a0 \u201cBecause I am not the empress.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUm.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you\u2019ve said that once already,\u201d Gwen said, her patience running out with the man.<\/p>\n

\u201cC-Captain Renold wishes to meet w-with you,\u201d the guard finally managed to squeak out.<\/p>\n

\u201cFine,\u201d Gwen stated, knowing the quicker she talked to him, the quicker she could dismiss such thoughts of her being empress.\u00a0 \u201cWhere?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe t-tavern across the street.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTell him I\u2019ll be down in a few minutes,\u201d Gwen said, closing the door before he could say anything else.<\/p>\n

She walked back into the room looking at Zoe, who had a strange look on her face, along with a smile.\u00a0 She felt glad to see the smile, but also unnerved at it.\u00a0 What was the girl thinking?<\/p>\n

*****<\/p>\n

Gwen walked into the tavern feeling everyone look her way.\u00a0 She focused on Renold, and walked right to him, sitting down as he watched in silence.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell empress-\u201c<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t call me that,\u201d Gwen said, cutting him off.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m not the Empress.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRegardless, the king and prince abandoned the palace last night, we have no working government,\u201d Renold said quietly, leaning forward to not be overheard much.\u00a0 \u201cWe need someone to assume the royal title before things break down.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFind someone else,\u201d Gwen said, feeling Zoe\u2019s hand on her shoulder.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t want it, never have.\u201d<\/p>\n

She stood and walked out before Renold could say anything else.\u00a0 Standing outside for a few seconds she looked at the bustle of the street, already wishing for a smaller crowd.<\/p>\n

\u201cI see you\u2019re up,\u201d Valerie said, walking up to her.\u00a0 \u201cHeard about what happened last night, how is Zoe?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s as good as can be expected,\u201d Gwen said, looking on as the woman walked over to her.<\/p>\n

\u201cHeard a few other things as well,\u201d Valerie said in a whisper.<\/p>\n

Gwen mentally prepared for a verbal sparring between her and Valerie.\u00a0 \u201cWhat about?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat the king and prince fled the town that thought disturbs me,\u201d Valerie said, surprising Gwen.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d Gwen asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy did they flee?\u00a0 Isn\u2019t this their capital, their base of power?\u00a0 The rumors are racing through the streets that they killed the queen.\u00a0 Fleeing only makes the rumors appear to be true.\u00a0 And by fleeing their seat of power, does it mean they have concentrated their power in another spot?\u201d Valerie said.<\/p>\n

Gwen gave it some thought.\u00a0 Her cousin had never been one to abandon anything.\u00a0 Valerie had a point, why did he leave?\u00a0 His power should be here.\u00a0 Zoe walked up to them, and Gwen heard Valerie strike up a conversation.\u00a0 She ignored it trying to figure out what might be going on.\u00a0 The bigger question, did she care enough to get involved.\u00a0 The last two years she spent trying to hide her past.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow about breakfast, my treat,\u201d Valerie said, breaking Gwen out of her musings.<\/p>\n

\u201cSounds great,\u201d Zoe replied, steering Gwen away from the tavern and towards another eating area.<\/p>\n

She walked into a high-class area, watching as the servers glanced their way, looking her and Zoe over.\u00a0 Gwen guessed her leathers were not the typical clothing to such a place.\u00a0 She spotted Lori and Dennis already sitting down, looking on.<\/p>\n

\u201cLori, how are you?\u201d Zoe asked, seeing Valerie\u2019s latgic.<\/p>\n

\u201cFine, but how are you?\u201d Lori asked, rising to give Zoe a hug.<\/p>\n

\u201cHurts,\u201d Zoe replied honestly, getting a sympathetic look from Lori.<\/p>\n

\u201cI never knew my parents,\u201d Lori said.\u00a0 \u201cSo I envy you a bit.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen sat down next to Zoe, who sat next to Lori hoping the conversation would help Zoe out.\u00a0 Gwen held her hand, as Zoe talked, hoping the contact helped her out.\u00a0 Valerie ordered some food for them all.\u00a0 The group\u2019s conversation went around to their parents, and Valerie knew her mom, who was living comfortably thanks to Valerie\u2019s business, and now knew her dad.\u00a0 Denyse knew her father, but lost her mother to her birth.\u00a0 She had been born into slavery.<\/p>\n

Gwen shrugged, as they looked over at her.\u00a0 \u201cWhat\u2019s to say, I knew my parents, until they died three years ago,\u201d she told them, recalling something one of the bounty hunters said, that their death might have been planned.\u00a0 Had Derek done so much planning?<\/p>\n

\u201cThings are pretty tense, how long are we to remain?\u201d Denyse asked, looking over at Valerie.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, we have rescued the damsel in distress, what do you say Gwen?\u201d Valerie said, looking over at her.<\/p>\n

She felt Zoe looking at her waiting for the answer.\u00a0 \u201cGuess soon, don\u2019t want to stay around too long.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThought so,\u201d Valerie said, her tone a bit flat but nothing else, even as Zoe continued to stare at her.\u00a0 She could not look back, knowing the disappointment she would see reflected in the eyes.<\/p>\n

Their food arrived, and she selected a biscuit and some fruit quietly eating, though feeling slightly guilty due to Zoe\u2019s stare.\u00a0 However, Gwen knew she was not leadership material.\u00a0 The people would not trust her, and they could find someone better than her.\u00a0 She ate in silence letting the conversation go over her before they made their way back to the inn with the agreement they would leave in an hour.\u00a0 Zoe was not pleased as she packed up, not saying anything to her.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be right back, going to check on the horses,\u201d Gwen said, not able to take the silence, unable to face Zoe.<\/p>\n

Once in the lobby she noticed the innkeeper along with a few others, heavily armed people, who seemed to be watching the events outside.\u00a0 She took a look and walked out into the streets, feeling the tension in the groups of people walking quickly to their destinations.\u00a0 It made her only more determined to leave as quickly as possible.<\/p>\n

Passing by every group she heard rumors of what was going on, people anxious about the latest gossip.\u00a0 Feeling a group of fighters coming she quickly reached the stables, seeing the owner looking outside as two groups met outside.<\/p>\n

\u201cThings going downhill faster than a spit wheel on grease,\u201d the stable owner said, looking outside at the two groups.<\/p>\n

Gwen said nothing but looked at the horses, seeing that they were ready to go.<\/p>\n

\u201cLeaving eh, can\u2019t blame you one bit,\u201d the man said, giving a nervous glance outside.\u00a0 \u201cPower vacuums, never a good thing for us common folk, eh?\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen did not reply, not wishing to get sucked into the conversation.\u00a0 It was best for everyone involved if she left the town.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll want to be quick though, heard the other three empires are massing for an invasion, plan to split us up between them,\u201d he said.\u00a0 \u201cPart of some plan of theirs or something like that.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen turned hearing the group now fighting outside the stable.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey you lot, get outta here if you\u2019re gonna do that,\u201d the owner said, swinging a metal pole at them as he raced towards them.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou shouldn\u2019t\u2019ve done that old man,\u201d a young punk said, a knife in his hand.<\/p>\n

Gwen found herself torn, she had to get out, but she could not allow this to happen in front of her.\u00a0 Stepping forward she allowed her fighting power to come forth, knowing that several of them felt it due to the fact they stopped their fighting.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet lost before I get mad,\u201d Gwen growled.\u00a0 One group ran away, but one of the others stepped forward.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d be careful which side you choose, that is if you want to live,\u201d he said, reminding Gwen a lot of Stephos.\u00a0 \u201cWhen I take over, well, you\u2019ll wish you were on my side.\u201d<\/p>\n

With that he left, taking a last look at the stable owner.\u00a0 She recognized the look before heading back into the stable.<\/p>\n

\u201cBad things, bad times ahead,\u201d he said.\u00a0 \u201cTime for me to pack up and leave before war breaks out.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen paused for a second then continued placing the saddles on the horses.\u00a0 Things were going from bad to worse.\u00a0 She thought about it all, reminding herself that there was nothing she could do about it.\u00a0 She almost believed it.<\/p>\n

*****<\/p>\n

Gwen steeled herself at the door to her room, prepared to face Zoe.\u00a0 Walking into the room she looked around, seeing their stuff packed, and Zoe curled up on the bed.\u00a0 Quickly walking over she sat down, hesitating for a second before reaching out to stroke Zoe\u2019s hair, watching as she turned over.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, we\u2019re really running away?\u201d Zoe finally asked, her eyes red from crying.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not leadership material,\u201d Gwen replied, hearing Zoe snort.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou rescued me, helped out two families at war, a kid, Valerie, and a town which needed help,\u201d Zoe said.\u00a0 \u201cYou have the skills.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI just did what had to be done,\u201d Gwen said, repeating her mantra again.<\/p>\n

\u201cRunning away will only cause more death, I don\u2019t want that,\u201d Zoe said, her green eyes pleading with Gwen.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not a hero, or a leader, I can\u2019t do that stuff,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve been on my own for too long now.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou are a hero, and a leader, and you\u2019re not alone in this,\u201d Zoe said, her hand closing around Gwen\u2019s.\u00a0 \u201cPeople need you now.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI-I just can\u2019t,\u201d Gwen finally said, hoping Zoe would drop it.\u00a0 Thankfully the girl did, but she had a feeling her lover was not finished with this conversation.<\/p>\n

They quickly headed down to Valerie\u2019s room, where she was waiting.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go, if we\u2019re going we need to get out of here quick,\u201d Valerie said.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Ottis said, his presence surprised Gwen.\u00a0 He moved over to Zoe.\u00a0 \u201cI took care of your mother\u2019s body.\u201d He said gently.\u00a0 Gwen watched as Zoe held back some tears, but nodded her thanks.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get going,\u201d Gwen said, surprised to see Brice and Zeltran at the entrance to the inn.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot you two as well,\u201d Gwen said, her group kept getting bigger.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re not staying around with everything deteriorating like it is,\u201d Brice said, causing Gwen to groan.\u00a0 She would not feel guilty for this.\u00a0 Instead she motioned for them to get moving and headed towards the stable.<\/p>\n

She spotted a group of youngsters, looking more like thugs, running towards one of the buildings.\u00a0 Outside the building she saw an elderly couple pleading with the group and knew what was going to happen.\u00a0 One of the thugs tossed something on fire into the house.\u00a0 The couple screamed at the group, and tried to get back in.<\/p>\n

Gwen found herself running forward even before she thought about it, striking the leader of the thugs shocking them all.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou bitch, stay outta my way or you\u2019ll find the same thing happening to you,\u201d he said, picking himself up off the street.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou ass, you\u2019re going to burn down the entire city,\u201d Gwen said, watching his stupefied expression along with the others.\u00a0 \u201cDo you not see the buildings are all connected?\u201d<\/p>\n

She groaned watching as they looked up and realized the entire block was connected.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy house!\u201d one of the thugs said, suddenly moving into the building.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s on fire, come on, help me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen watched as the group suddenly wilted as the leader glared at her one last time before running off with a few thugs.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou, head over to the water supply, get others to help, perhaps we can find a water mage, but get some water to fight the fire, go, now!\u201d she said, watching as they took off.<\/p>\n

The others with her already moved, Ottis heading inside to check the fire, the older couple also going in.\u00a0 Gwen moved in quickly seeing a few pieces of furniture on fire.<\/p>\n

She watched as Ottis tossed a piece of furniture on fire through the door and into the street.\u00a0 They now had a few pockets of fire, which they quickly started to beat down.\u00a0 It seemed like forever before a bucket of water was tossed on the flames, then another.\u00a0 She then felt it raining inside the room and turned to see a man standing there, his arms outstretched chanting slightly, a water mage.<\/p>\n

She walked outside seeing Zoe and a few others standing there.\u00a0 \u201cYou found a water mage,\u201d Gwen stated looking at Zoe.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe was nearby, and looked like a mage,\u201d Zoe replied, giving a slight shrug.<\/p>\n

\u201cThings are only going to get worse,\u201d Brice said.\u00a0 \u201cWe better get moving.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen watched them start to move towards the stables again, but remained still.\u00a0 Thinking about everything that could happen, things she might be able to prevent.\u00a0 She did not want this responsibility, but she reasoned with herself she could temporally take charge until someone else was placed in permanent charge.<\/p>\n

She saw Zoe stop when the girl realized Gwen was not with them, followed by a few others until they were all looking at her strangely.\u00a0 She looked at Zoe, seeing a spark of something in her eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cI must be crazy, cause what I\u2019m about to do is insane,\u201d Gwen finally said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Brice asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not going,\u201d Gwen said, turning to head towards the palace.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve got some sort of stupid sense of honor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you\u2019re a good person,\u201d Zoe said, catching up to her, placing her arm in hers and leaning in slightly to her.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think you\u2019re biased.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, that\u2019s a good thing.\u201d<\/p>\n

She made her way through the streets, which were both quiet and uneasy, as if something would happen at any second.\u00a0 She felt the fear from the citizens, who watched as she passed, not fear of her, but of the situation.<\/p>\n

She turned slightly to see the rest of the group following her.\u00a0 She raised an eyebrow at them wondering why they were following her.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can help you,\u201d Ottis said.<\/p>\n

Gwen thought about that for a second, before realizing he was right.\u00a0 Neither Brice nor Zeltran said anything, and she suspected they would never say.\u00a0 Valerie merely shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201cSafer in groups,\u201d she said, sounding very logical.<\/p>\n

Continuing she met one of the palace guards, who stopped her.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t let anyone in,\u201d he said, standing to bar her entrance.<\/p>\n

\u201cInform Captain Renold that Gwen is here,\u201d she said, hoping to use a commanding voice.<\/p>\n

He faltered slightly, looking at her, then back at the palace.\u00a0 She noticed Renold walking towards her, and the relief of the guard\u2019s face.\u00a0 He looked at her, then at the others waiting.\u00a0 The silence stretched on until she finally decided to do something.<\/p>\n

\u201cRound up the royal guard, and gather the palace guards as well, we have a lot of work to do,\u201d she told him.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course Empress,\u201d he said, smiling a bit.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t call me that,\u201d Gwen said, looking back at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs you wish,\u201d he replied, giving a slight bow much to Gwen\u2019s annoyance.\u00a0 She looked down at Zoe, who smiled back at her.\u00a0 It would be a rough day.<\/p>\n

*****<\/p>\n

Gwen looked at the gathered guards, and Royal Guards.\u00a0 They were looking strangely at her, unable to figure out if her plan.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, we have a city ready to erupt in chaos, first order of operation, regain order in the city.\u00a0 Captains, draw up sections to patrol, and send troops there,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 \u201cWe have to show the population there is a running government.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy should we listen to you?\u201d one of the guards said.<\/p>\n

\u201cFool, that\u2019s the king\u2019s niece, Ruth,\u201d Renold said sharply.\u00a0 \u201cBe respectful, she\u2019s of royal blood.\u201d<\/p>\n

The tone of Renold and the fact of who she was caused a few of the guards to pale.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut, isn\u2019t she the one responsible for the Queen\u2019s death?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIdiot, have you not listened to anything this morning?\u201d Renold said.<\/p>\n

\u201cEnough,\u201d Gwen said, stopping him from anything else.\u00a0 \u201cWe have a city erupting into chaos, it\u2019s your duty to prevent that, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen stepped right up to one of the ones who had questioned her.\u00a0 She wanted to remind him of where his loyalties should lay.\u00a0 He nervously shook his head in agreement.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood, begin your work, we don\u2019t need the city burning down,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 \u201cPlace water mages around the city with some of the Royal Guards.\u00a0 Last bit, Ottis take charge of the guards.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about the palace?\u201d Renold asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be helping, and if we act fast, things will calm down quickly,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 \u201cGet going.\u201d<\/p>\n

She turned motioning for Ottis to come over along with Renold.<\/p>\n

\u201cOttis, gather the captains, and get to work on the patrols at once, the quicker they get out in public view the better.\u00a0 Renold, the royal guard will work with the guards, we need to be working as one team, not fractured,\u201d Gwen said to him.\u00a0 He looked at her for a second before acknowledging her.<\/p>\n

They both went back to their men as Gwen made her way back inside the palace where several servants and aides were lined up watching her.\u00a0 She realized the amount of work needed now.\u00a0 With a brief glance at Zoe, who seemed to understand, she made her way with several aides to a meeting room, surprised when Valerie stayed with her.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not leaving?\u201d Gwen asked her.<\/p>\n

\u201cNope, have a good feeling staying with you,\u201d Valerie said.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, but don\u2019t blame me if you\u2019re bored,\u201d Gwen finally said, heading into the meeting.<\/p>\n

*****<\/p>\n

Gwen left the meeting room feeling a bit better, though now she had to meet with the nobles, who were concerned about the recent events.\u00a0 She felt relieved that Valerie decided to attend.\u00a0 She made some very wise suggestions, but then she also made such decisions in her business.<\/p>\n

\u201cAny way you can help with the nobles?\u201d Gwen asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t think so, they\u2019ll be looking for reassurances that the economy is stable, and for leadership, otherwise they\u2019ll want to take over,\u201d Valerie said, something Gwen already thought of.<\/p>\n

\u201cThought so,\u201d she said, seeing Zoe walking towards her along with Dawn.<\/p>\n

\u201cStaying out of trouble?\u201d Gwen asked, giving Zoe a hug which she returned.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d she replied, her tone indicating something wrong.\u00a0 Gwen stood there being supportive as Zoe cried a bit before stepping back.\u00a0 \u201cS-Sorry, you have an entire empire crumbling and I go and do that,\u201d she said, wiping her eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cIts natural, you lost a very important person to you,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 \u201cI can take a timeout for you whenever you need it.\u00a0 If you say we leave, we leave.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen looked down into green eyes knowing she said something right.\u00a0 Maybe she\u2019d understand this love thing after all.\u00a0 A lot of work, but the reward seemed worth it.<\/p>\n

\u201cGo on and meet the nobles,\u201d Zoe said, giving her a push.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Gwen said, bending down and giving Zoe a kiss before heading off.<\/p>\n

Ottis stood waiting nearby so she detoured despite the protests of the advisor, Tinis.\u00a0 Walking up to him he looked at her then at Tinis still protesting.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s up?\u201d Gwen asked, ignoring Tinis and focusing on Ottis.<\/p>\n

\u201cThought you might like to know, the patrols are up, and things appear to be calming down,\u201d he told her.\u00a0 \u201cBut I worry about where the king went.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen thought about that for a second.\u00a0 True, the king and prince left, but she also knew there was an army mobilized not far away.\u00a0 If they decided to attack, things could get messy.<\/p>\n

\u201cSend word to Celia, tell her to mobilize the men, we might need them, and see if you can get Brice to send out a few of his men to patrol the outer areas for the military,\u201d Gwen stated.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can do that,\u201d Ottis said, turning to carry out the orders as Gwen turned back to Tinis and headed off to meet the nobles.\u00a0 Things were going to get messy real soon.\u00a0 She made a mental note to gather up the remaining generals and see where their loyalty lay.\u00a0 A fight was coming and she appeared to be in the middle of it.<\/p>\n

Entering the room she spotted several richly dressed men and women, who looked up at her entrance.\u00a0 Some frowned, probably due to her dress, she still wore her leathers and had yet to change.\u00a0 Perhaps it would project an image of power.\u00a0 Sitting down at the head of the room she waited to see what any of them might say.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo what is the situation out there?\u201d one asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cI saw several gangs robbing and beating people up, this isn\u2019t good for business,\u201d a woman said, speaking up.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m in fear for my life, or worse.\u201d<\/p>\n

Several agreed and began talking at once.\u00a0 Gwen rubbed her forehead trying to think of a diplomatic way to get them to shut up.\u00a0 Finally she stood pushing the chair over.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow that I have your attention, patrols are going around getting things under control, both the guards and the Royal Guard are helping out,\u201d Gwen said to them.\u00a0 \u201cSecond, things are not all okay.\u00a0 We have a king and prince who went back to an army waiting for them, and I would not be surprised if they turn around and come back here to attack the city.\u201d<\/p>\n

The idea of the city being invaded by their own army seemed ridiculous.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you trying to take over?\u201d one asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, trying to save your hides,\u201d Gwen replied back at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cOr perhaps, he\u2019ll invade because you\u2019re here,\u201d a woman said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t care, if you want suffering, I\u2019ll leave.\u00a0 If you want that uncertainty in the streets costing you profits, I\u2019ll gladly leave.\u00a0 Make up your mind,\u201d Gwen growled at them.\u00a0 She would not help ungrateful people.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe know about what happened Ruth, you killed the queen.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I didn\u2019t, and it appears I was set up for that, along with many things,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 \u201cThough why I still don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAre we supposed to believe that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI heard a different version last night and not the one we\u2019re used to hearing, and from the prince himself,\u201d another man said, speaking up.\u00a0 Gwen looked over unsure if she was relieved that someone overheard it all.<\/p>\n

She watched as the nobles seem to separate in groups glaring at each other.\u00a0 So the nobles were not united.\u00a0 She might be able to use that to her advantage.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can argue amongst yourselves, but there is a threat to the empire, if not from the king and his son then other nations which are watching, looking for weakness,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 \u201cAnd if they invade, you\u2019ll be wiped out first.\u201d<\/p>\n

She knew they understood that part, and looked back at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd if the king controls the army, what army will you use?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe rebellion\u2019s,\u201d Gwen answered truthfully.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re doomed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOnly if we don\u2019t act together, it\u2019ll be hard, but we can do it,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 \u201cAfter which we can look at setting up a real government.\u201d<\/p>\n

That seemed to interest some of them, and Gwen would have to watch them carefully.\u00a0 They were the ones who were looking to gain power over all others.\u00a0 She recognized a few of them.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, you are not taking over then?\u201d another one asked.\u00a0 Gwen thought about it, stating the truth to this group could be dangerous.\u00a0 They had the money and power.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll see, for now I am,\u201d Gwen said finally, going against her usual comments.\u00a0 \u201cWe have work to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

With that she stood and walked back out, knowing they were probably not satisfied.\u00a0 She had a battle to plan for, and an unknown enemy someone out there, either with the king or some other group.<\/p>\n

\u201cEmpress,\u201d an aide asked, causing her to look over at a young woman hurrying up to her.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Gwen said, ignoring the \u2018empress\u2019 part.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe generals have replied to your questions,\u201d she said, handing a stack of papers.<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d Gwen said, heading to a table to read them.\u00a0 There were ten general of the empire, most controlling the boundaries between the empires.\u00a0 She wanted them to remain on duty, and increase patrols.\u00a0 They reported they would, but were cautious about what was going on internally.<\/p>\n

Only one did not reply, and Gwen assumed he was the only loyal to the king.\u00a0 Two others were openly hostile in their assessment of her taking over the government, and three supported her.\u00a0 The other four were indifferent and cautious.<\/p>\n

Drumming her fingers she thought about what to do next.\u00a0 Finally making a decision, she quickly wrote back to one with what she wanted him to do.\u00a0 Giving it to the aide, who quickly went off to send the note off.<\/p>\n

Stretching Gwen wondered what the rest of the day would be like.<\/p>\n

*****<\/p>\n

Gwen looked up seeing Zoe walk into the room and over to her.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou haven\u2019t eaten,\u201d Zoe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat time is it?\u201d Gwen asked, having been going over reports all day.<\/p>\n

\u201cToo late,\u201d Zoe replied, turning a bit as Dawn walked in carrying a tray of food.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks,\u201d Gwen said to her, watching the girl blush, bow and then quickly exit.\u00a0 \u201cShe\u2019s still working here?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe says she\u2019s my personal servant,\u201d Zoe said, shrugging her shoulders.\u00a0 \u201cShe does a good job.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe has a crush,\u201d Gwen said teasing Zoe.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, on you,\u201d Zoe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was talking about you,\u201d Gwen replied, wondering who was correct.\u00a0 Instead of dwelling too much on it, she grabbed a bit of the sandwich realizing how hungry she was.\u00a0 She finished off the first before looking over at Zoe.\u00a0 \u201cDid you eat?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Zoe replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd how are you doing?\u201d Gwen asked, taking a moment to focus her attention on Zoe.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs good as expected, I mean I didn\u2019t know her that well,\u201d Zoe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut it still hurts to have her ripped away like that,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 \u201cShe told me that she didn\u2019t want your life tainted by her magic.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen recalled when her own parents passed away.\u00a0 The emotional pain that caused.\u00a0 To want a parent all your life, only to find one and then taken away.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s still a lot to do,\u201d Zoe said.<\/p>\n

Gwen pulled Zoe onto her lap, content to hold the girl for a few seconds.\u00a0 \u201cSay the word and we walk away,\u201d Gwen said to her.\u00a0 \u201cI walked away from this life once, I have no problems doing it again.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPeople are depending on you this time,\u201d Zoe replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t care, the only one I care about is in my lap,\u201d Gwen replied back to her.\u00a0 She watched Zoe struggle with the weight of her words.\u00a0 Sitting in silence Gwen felt comfortable cuddling Zoe.\u00a0 True, a lot of people were depending on her, but at this moment she meant what she said.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, when are you coming to bed?\u201d Zoe finally asked after several minutes of silence.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure I can be persuaded, especially if it\u2019s by a green-eyed, blonde,\u201d Gwen stated, tickling the side of Zoe, earning a small squeal of protest.<\/p>\n

Instead of backing down, Zoe went on the attack, and Gwen found herself in an unexpected battle.\u00a0 Their laughter echoed in the room even as they ended up on the floor facing each other, hands up looking for an opening.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve been studying,\u201d Gwen stated.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou, yes,\u201d Zoe replied, catching Gwen off guard.<\/p>\n

Zoe used that moment to launch herself at Gwen, knocking her over and ending up with Zoe on top of her.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow what?\u201d Gwen asked, with her arms pinned above her.\u00a0 Sure she could easily buck Zoe off, but she wanted to know what the girl had planned.<\/p>\n

For an answer, Zoe leaned down and kissed her.\u00a0 Gwen recognized the wanting and hunger in the kiss, and returned it.\u00a0 Flipping them over, she reversed their positions, and looked down into green eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s continue this somewhere more private,\u201d Gwen whispered, standing up and pulling Zoe with her.<\/p>\n

Zoe didn\u2019t argue, and quickly led them to their bedroom.<\/p>\n

*****<\/p>\n

Gwen looked over the field, Ottis was training the guards, and the Royal Guards were participating as well.\u00a0 So much had changed in the past couple of days.\u00a0 Renold made his way over the moment he spotted her walking towards them.<\/p>\n

\u201cMorning empress,\u201d he said to her, getting a glare from her.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow are things?\u201d Gwen asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cThings are doing better, we have a full day, and scouts out looking for any sign of an approaching army,\u201d he said.\u00a0 \u201cBrice came by this morning, said he had not seen anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen listened to the report, but it seemed like nothing much had changed.\u00a0 She felt sure her uncle and cousin had reached the army they had waiting.\u00a0 Now she had to wonder if they were marching on the town yet or not.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s the training coming?\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cDoing good, never thought we\u2019d work so well with them,\u201d Renold said.\u00a0 \u201cHowever, I don\u2019t trust that Ottis fella.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not from here, but he\u2019s saved my life at least once,\u201d Gwen said, watching Renold look on.\u00a0 \u201cWas hit by a dart by someone who wanted to harm me and Zoe, he was nearby and helped out.\u00a0 Probably saved us both, so he has my confidence.\u201d<\/p>\n

Renold looked thoughtful, but unconvinced.\u00a0 Gwen knew it was because of Ottis\u2019 background.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe was a soldier in the Imperial army, you know that, right?\u201d Renold said.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Gwen replied, already knowing that.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s why he\u2019s in charge of the guards.\u00a0 He was an instructor.\u201d<\/p>\n

Renold looked back at Ottis, then at Gwen.\u00a0 She looked up seeing someone approach, and had to think who it was before recognizing Jack.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnother strange one,\u201d Renold said.<\/p>\n

Gwen ignored the captain and looked on as Jack walked up to her.\u00a0 \u201cReporting in, the army is in position waiting for your orders,\u201d he told her.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood, any information about the army my uncle is leading?\u201d Gwen asked, refusing to call him king anymore.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo ma\u2019am,\u201d Jack said, even as Brice walked up to her.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis just came in,\u201d Brice said to her, handing her a piece of paper.\u00a0 She quickly scanned through report of an army heading towards the capital.\u00a0 She quickly walked back inside and to the maps checking the location.\u00a0 The others followed her looking down at the information as well.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s plotting to expose the weakness of the capital\u2019s defenses,\u201d Renold said.\u00a0 \u201cEven with the increased numbers, we can\u2019t hold them outside of the city.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen we ride to meet him,\u201d Gwen said logically.\u00a0 \u201cGather the royal guard and have them meet up with the army, send a message to General Eric, he should be here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes ma\u2019am,\u201d Renold said, snapping his fingers as a couple of wind mages came into the room.\u00a0 They quickly received the orders and where to go and ran off.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get back and inform the army as well,\u201d Jack said.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood, we\u2019ll move to meet my uncle, here,\u201d Gwen said, pointing to a spot on the map.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure, not a great location,\u201d Renold said.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, but one place they would never expect, which give us the advantage,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

\u201cStrategy?\u201d Renold asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cSimple, the Fifth army will attack from the front, the Royal guard from the sides and the rebel army from behind,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot a full frontal assault?\u201d Renold asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, the real targets are my uncle and cousin.\u00a0 Take them out and the leadership falls.\u00a0 Once that happens hopefully they surrender avoiding needless bloodshed,\u201d Gwen said to him.<\/p>\n

\u201cA wise decision, especially considering the other news I\u2019ve heard,\u201d Brice said, as she turned to look at him.\u00a0 \u201cThe Imperial Army is massing along our borders.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey sense weakness,\u201d Gwen said, now knowing they had to move quickly.\u00a0 \u201cTell everyone to move out, the capital guards will remain here to protect the city.\u00a0 Brice, do any of your bounty hunters feel like doing some mercenary work?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat type of work?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cHarassment of the enemy, specifically the Imperial army,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps, there are a few who dislike the Imperials,\u201d Brice said, thinking about it for a few seconds.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood, but they only have to do anything if the Imperials cross the border.\u00a0 They don\u2019t have to attack them, but sabotage their supplies, or random hit and runs, anything to demoralize and slow them down,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think I can find a few who are willing,\u201d he said, then walked out.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure about that?\u201d Renold asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf they attack, we\u2019ll need time to reorganize after the battle.\u00a0 I\u2019ve learned a few men can do great harm to an army.\u00a0 They will look for traps, slowing them down, giving us time,\u201d Gwen stated.\u00a0 \u201cNow, I just have to fight the toughest battle.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYour uncle?\u201d Renold asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, my lover,\u201d Gwen replied, knowing that convincing Zoe to remain behind would be extremely difficult.\u00a0 She looked over seeing a puzzled look on Renold\u2019s face.\u00a0 Dismissing it she went in search of Zoe, eventually finding her talking to Tinis.<\/p>\n

\u201cGwen,\u201d Zoe said, happy to see her.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat trouble are you causing?\u201d Gwen asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cNone,\u201d Zoe replied, causing Gwen to look at her, then over at Tinis.\u00a0 \u201cHonest.\u00a0 You get information about your uncle\u2019s army?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and we\u2019re moving out, I\u2019m taking command of the Fifth army,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen do we leave?\u201d Zoe asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou are staying here,\u201d Gwen said, watching the green eyes flash and she geared up to argue.<\/p>\n

\u201cEmpress, if you leave, who will be in charge?\u201d Tinis asked, giving Gwen a sudden idea.<\/p>\n

\u201cZoe will be,\u201d Gwen replied shocking them both.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat!\u201d they both exclaimed.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s perfect, she has been learning from you for a while, with you guiding her she\u2019ll do just fine for a short term until I return,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut she\u2019s not royalty,\u201d Tinis said.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe is my lover, and can be my queen,\u201d Gwen said, clearly indicating what their future might hold.\u00a0 The admission left both Zoe and Tinis speechless.\u00a0 \u201cNow, I have some battle plans to go over.\u201d<\/p>\n

With that Gwen left leaving two stunned people behind her.<\/p>\n

*****<\/p>\n

Gwen walked into the bedroom after a long day.\u00a0 She had been out among the troops assessing their readiness.\u00a0 However, all that left her mind as she looked at the bed, seeing Zoe sitting on her side, looking back at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cDone playing soldier?\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I guess so,\u201d Gwen said, taking off the leather armor, feeling hands wraparound her.\u00a0 \u201cWhat about you, playing ruler yet?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat was a sneaky think to say,\u201d Zoe said. \u00a0Gwen felt her bury her head into the middle of her back.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m not a ruler, I have no idea what I\u2019d be doing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I\u2019m different how?\u201d Gwen asked, turning in the embrace to face Zoe. \u201cI never had any training either.\u00a0 I was expected to take over the head of the Royal Guard one day.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s more experience than I have,\u201d Zoe replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot much, never got past training,\u201d Gwen replied.\u00a0 \u201cIn fact, I learned quite a bit as a bounty hunter.\u201d<\/p>\n

They were silent for a couple of minutes, content to be in each other\u2019s arms, until Gwen\u2019s stomach growled.\u00a0 Zoe chuckled looking up at Gwen.<\/p>\n

\u201cDidn\u2019t eat?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHad lunch, but was quite active this afternoon,\u201d Gwen replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, go take a bath, and I\u2019ll get you something to eat,\u201d Zoe said, to her, pushing her towards the bathing chamber.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou say I stink?\u201d Gwen asked, watching Zoe ponder the question for a few seconds.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

Before Gwen could reply Zoe had left the room.\u00a0 Shaking her head at the action she turned back to the bathing chamber, seeing a bath had been drawn and waiting for her.\u00a0 Testing the water, it was warm and quickly stripped down and climbed in.<\/p>\n

She thought back to the conversation, and the previous conversation.\u00a0 She mentioned it as a spur of the moment, but realized now she meant every word.\u00a0 If she did rule, she would want Zoe as her queen.\u00a0 She briefly thought about how her life might be as ruler with Zoe by her side.\u00a0 She pushed those thoughts aside, for tonight, she\u2019d focus on Zoe, and then, the upcoming battle.<\/p>\n

End part 15<\/p>\n

Continued in part 16<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Luck Lucky by AJ Marks Part 15: A Lucky Civil War   Gwen looked at the sunlight stream into the room.\u00a0 It had taken some time for Zoe to fall asleep.\u00a0 She took the loss of her mother hard.\u00a0 Gwen recalled the loss of her own parents and how hard that had been.\u00a0 Her position […]
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