Starlight Day - Part 1

This Christmas story is a continuation of Jarek and Cailan's tale.  So, if you have not read The War Gift and Amity Cove, there will be parts of this story that won't make sense to you.  I recommend reading those first.  For those who have read them, I've including below a brief list to remind you of people and facts from Jarek and Cailan's world.  
   This story is meant to give more information on the world of Cylandrea, and see what Cailan is learning in his new life.  There's a little drama in this, but not a lot.  It is a fairly long story, so I'm posting it in three parts.  Hopefully one today, one tomorrow, and the last on Christmas Day.  Merry Christmas, everyone!
JL-

*****

>Arten characters

*Prince Cailan Pierson Nyle – second youngest son of King Saxon of Arten

*King Saxon Nyle – King of Arten

*Queen Adesina Nyle – Queen of Arten

*Ristoph – royal sorcerer

 *Some of Cailan's brothers – Abed (first born), Eleron (second born), Doron (youngest)

>Cylandrea characters

*Prince/Leader Jarek Nolan Lysander – second-born son of King Jonerick of Cylandrea; Cylandrea’s military leader

*King Alaric Lysander – first-born of King Jonerick; current ruler of Cylandrea

*Queen Kesla Lysander – Alaric’s wife

*Prince Sem Lysander – prince of Cylandrea; brother to Alaric, Jarek and Sana

*Princess Sana Lysander – princess of Cylandrea; sister to Alaric, Jarek, and Sem

*Jothan – palace guard; friend to Cailan

*Lady Bara – Jothan’s mother; seamstress

*King Jonerick Lysander – father to Alaric, Jarek, Sem and Sana; former ruler of Cylandrea

*Queen Dyanna Lysander – mother to Alaric, Jarek, Sem and Sana; former queen of Cylandrea

NOTES:

*Eastern wing of palace/upper levels – where he royal living quarters are.

*Western wing of palace – where harem is located

* Southern hills – where King Jonerick and Queen Dyanna live

* All Cylandrean have multiple births.

*****
PART 1

“Which company will we be with today?” Cailan asked as he and Jarek lingered in the warmth of their bed.  On these cold mornings, they both were a bit slower to leave the soft mattress and shared body heat.

Jarek’s thumb moved lazily on Cailan’s hip, while the rest of him enjoyed the feel of the younger man pressed close against him.  “We won’t be with a soldier company today.  We have other things to do.”

Cailan tipped his head up from where it rested on Jarek’s chest.  “What things?”

“We need to go into the city.  Preparations are being made for the ice festival.  Alaric needs us to fulfill some duties there, and we’ll shop for gifts as well.”

Cailan sat up a bit, so he could see Jarek’s face better.  “What’s the ice festival?  And what gifts are needed?”

Jarek’s eyes reflected surprise.  “Has Sem not taught you of our holidays yet, petling?”

Cailan shook his head.  Prince Sem had proven to be an excellent tutor to him since his official move to Cylandrea, but the two months he’d been there wasn’t long enough to cover the innumerable things Cailan had yet to learn about his new country.

“Sem and I have been focusing on Cylandrea’s history, royal policies, and the country’s economics.  We haven’t spoken of holidays.”

“Hmm,” Jarek murmured.  “I think that’s an oversight on our part, and I’m afraid we don’t have time to delve into details.”

“What can you tell me?”

Jarek sat up fully, bringing Cailan with him, and nudged him to get out of bed.  “Grab our wraps and see if the morning meal has been delivered while I clean up a bit.  I’ll give you an overview while we eat.”

A few minutes later, dressed in their warm, morning robes, they sat for their meal.  Usually, when it was just the two of them, Jarek would have Cailan either on his lap or on the cushion by his chair, always feeding him from the same plate from which he ate.  However, when they needed to talk of specific things, they sat separately, each eating from his own plate, although Jarek’s natural dominance and caretaking always had him filling Cailan’s dish himself before placing it in front of his husband.

“Thank you,” Cailan said graciously as Jarek set a plate filled with seasoned potatoes, meat patties, and cut fruit in front of him.

Jarek’s response was a warm smile and a nod for him to start eating.  They both took several bites before the older man initiated their conversation.

“Do you know of any of the holidays we celebrate, petling?”

Cailan shook his head, his mouth too full to speak.

“Well, there are several throughout the year, but four are celebrated with a week-long festival.  Each of these four are meant to rejoice in the season for which they take place.  The ice festival celebrates the cold season, with the peak being Starlight Day.”

“What is Starlight Day?” Cailan asked with interest.

“Starlight Day is the day of the year with the shortest sunshine and the longest starlight,” Jarek explained.  “Coincidentally, it’s also the day Cylandrea crowned its first king, my ancestor Trace Lysander.  For that reason, it is the most renowned national holiday we have, and our people celebrate by giving gifts to loved ones, honoring the royal family in specific ways, going all out for the festival, and opening their homes to all.  On Starlight Day, the royal family also opens up the large courtyard, the one just inside the gates, to the people.  We provide hot spiced cider and fire-roasted foods to all who come, and there are musicians and, games, and theatrical presentations all day.

There was joy and excitement in Jarek’s voice, and Cailan could feel his own enthusiasm building.  “That sounds like a lot of fun.  What has the king asked you to do today for it?”

“Us,” Jarek corrected.  “He’s asked us.  He requested that you and I bring the royal crest to the Cylandreans we’ve asked to prepare the food and entertainment for Starlight Day at the palace, as well as meet with certain artisans who will have booths set up for the week-long festival.  Three of them have sent word to the palace, requesting a consultation with a representative of the royal family.”

Cailan glanced uncertainly down at the table.  “Are you sure Alaric wishes to include me in that duty?”

Jarek reached over and placed a warm palm over Cailan’s fingers.  “Petling, are you questioning your value?”

It was an intuitive question, and one Jarek had been learning to ask when he saw signs of Cailan’s insecurity.  Despite the respect both Cylandrea’s royal house and the people of the country placed on Cailan, the young prince still struggled with nineteen years of his home country’s prejudice against those born with silver hair.

“It just sounds like something you could do without my help or….”

“Or your hindrance?  Is that what you were going to say?” Jarek asked when Cailan didn’t finish his thought.  He continued before Cailan could reply.  “You are never a hindrance, petling.  You are a hero.  The people already know what you’ve done for us, particularly how you saved the queen.  Our countrymen look upon you favorably, and Alaric has actually scolded me for not getting you out among the people more.”

“He has?”

Jarek nodded.  “I’ve kept you busy within the palace walls in assisting me with my men, doing your own training, studying, and just spending time with the two of us.  But you need to get to know your people here as well, and they need to know you.  Our wedding here in Cylandrea is just over a month away, a week after Starlight Day in fact, and I don’t want you to still be a stranger to the people at that time. They should have the chance to know you, just as you need to know them.  Alaric’s scolding reminded me of that, and he was adamant that he wanted you to be as much a part of our duties today as I am.”

A small, pleased smile graced Cailan’s lips.  “I would like to be involved, and to meet more of the Cylandrean people.”

Jarek leaned over to brush a kiss on Cailan’s mouth.  “Good.  Eat up now.  It will be a full day.”

*****

The two of them dressed for the trip into Palace City, and then sat closely together in the carriage as a driver took them to their first destination. 

“I didn’t realize the temperature had dropped so much since yesterday,” Jarek commented as he pulled Cailan tighter against him.  “We’ll be warmer once we’re walking through the city, and the shops we’re going to will be warm inside.”

“Good,” was all Cailan responded with.  Normally he could handle colder temperatures because anytime he was outside, it was usually for training and a lot of physical activity.  The immobility of riding in the carriage had the cold seeping into his body, despite the thick clothes he wore.

As they made their way deeper into Cylandrea’s royal city, Cailan could hear the sounds of the town outside the carriage.  Horses’ hooves, the chatter of people, and further-off sounds of machinery all reached his ears.  When the carriage came to a stop, he was excited to get out and explore more of the world outside the palace walls.  The driver opened the door for them, and Cailan followed Jarek onto the cobbled street.

It was even colder outside the carriage, as a blustery wind blew around them.  Cailan saw people walking quickly in and out of the stores and homes, all bundled up tightly, although still cheerfully offering greetings and waves to one another as they passed on the street. 

He waited as Jarek spoke to their driver for a minute before grasping his hand and walking them hurriedly toward one of the stores.  “This is our first stop,” Jarek told him as they entered a shop where a sign announcing it as Nikolai’s hung over the door. 

Cailan wasn’t sure what the proprietor of the business was selling as they walked in.  There were no shelves of goods to be purchased or signs offering special sales.  Instead they entered a mid-size room with cushioned divans scattered throughout the space, several of which were arranged around a large fireplace at the far end of the area.

“I don’t think anyone is here,” Cailan commented.

“Nikolai is probably in the back,” Jarek replied.  “He’s closed to the public for now to prepare for the festival.”

“What is he preparing?”

“He is an excellent chef,” Jarek explained.  “He caters for almost any special event people have, and is gifted at preparing unique foods.  The royal house has employed him for many occasions.  We’ve asked him to make and sell his fire pies during Starlight Day this year.”

“Fire pies?”

Jarek smiled knowingly.  “I won’t even try to describe them.  You’ll just have to see him make one and then taste it to grasp how good they are.”

Jarek then led the way to a door next to the large, stone fireplace, and rapped loudly.  After a moment, the hinges squeaked as a man with a dark maroon hue blended into his black hair opened the door.  His expression held curiosity until he recognized Jarek, and then his mouth morphed into a large smile.

“Leader Jarek!  I wasn’t sure who to expect from the palace.  It’s an honor to have you!” 

He opened the door fully to allow entrance into the back of his building, his gaze respectful on Jarek and inquisitive toward Cailan; until, that is, understanding seemed to dawn on him.

“Oh my!  Is this Prince Cailan, my lord?”

Jarek smiled broadly.  “It is.  Allow me to introduce my husband to you, Nikolai.”

He didn’t get further than that.  Nikolai, despite looking quite a bit older than them, dropped to one knee and gently grasped both Jarek’s and Cailan’s right hands. 

“It is an honor to welcome both of you, my lieges.”  He looked up to Cailan’s face.  “And thank you, young sire, for saving our queen and being such an honorable fulfilment to the prophecies we have known for so long.”

Cailan, surprised at this reception and unsure how to respond, looked quickly toward Jarek when Nikolai bowed his head.  Jarek easily read his uncertainty and stepped in, placing a hand on their host’s shoulder.

“Thank you, Nikolai.  You please my heart with such words to my beloved.  Please stand and let us visit for a while and give you the king’s crest for the holiday.”

Nikolai rose with a wide smile and ushered them into the warmer part of the room where a well-equipped kitchen was being used, and delicious smells were emanating from several ovens and cooktops.

“Come in and sit, please.  I have hot drinks I’ve been perfecting, and I’d love for you to sample them.”

Jarek and Cailan followed him, and then sat on a wooden bench near an inground fire pit, which had a blaze burning cheerily.  That was an interesting sight to Cailan.  He’d never seen an indoor fire contained in such a way, but while the flames burned hotly, they were well-contained by blackened stones and a narrow, water-filled trench encircling the pit.

“How ingenious,” he commented.

“Thank you,” Nikolai said humbly. 

“You designed this?” Cailan asked with honest admiration.

“He did,” Jarek answered while the older man nodded.  “You figured out a design that was safe enough to use about forty years ago, right Nikolai?”

“Yes, sire.  It was a way to create some of my foods when my first stove broke and I couldn’t afford a new one.”

“Indoor cooking pits are fairly common now,” Jarek told Cailan.  “And Nikolai created his fire pies on them.  I’m excited to have Cailan taste your pies on Starlight Day, Nik.”

“There is no reason for him to wait, sire.  It is easy enough to make some now.”

Jarek looked more than pleased at the offer.  “I’d love to have Cailan sample one, and I’ll never turn down one myself either.”

“Then warm up by the fire while I get you some drinks and prepare the pies,” Nikolai insisted. 

Cailan sat a little closer to the flames, appreciative of the heat, and then gratefully wrapped his hands around a steaming mug their host handed him.  He expected one of the hot drinks he was becoming familiar with in Cylandrea, either the brew made from caphee beans or one of the flavorful teas he’d been introduced to drinking in the palace.  Instead, the liquid in his mug didn’t look or smell familiar, although the aroma was very appealing.  Jarek also held a mug of the drink, and didn’t seem to mind asking Nikolai what it held.

“Is this one of your experiments, Nik?  It smells wonderful.”

The older man nodded eagerly.  “You are the first two to taste it besides me.  Please, tell me what you think.”

Cailan followed Jarek’s lead and blew across the top of his mug before taking a sip.  A delicious mouthful of cinnamon and other flavors flowed over his taste buds and soothingly down his throat.  “Oh my.  It’s wonderful!” he exclaimed.  “What is it, sir?”

“Please, I am most humbly just ‘Nikolai’ to the royal house,” their host told him, but then proceeded to answer his question.  “I don’t have a name for the drink yet, and I’m still adjusting the measurements, but it is fresh milk flavored primarily with cinnamon, and then small amounts of vanilla root and caramel sugar.”

“It’s delicious,” Cailan praised again, and Jarek agreed with him wholeheartedly.

“Will you offer this on Starlight Day?” Leader Jarek questioned.

“I hope to, along with hot apple tea and the fire pies.”

“Perfect,” Jarek expressed.

Nikolai, looking wholly pleased, bowed respectfully, and then hurried to one of his work stations, calling out over his shoulder, “I’ll prepare the pies for you now.  I know your preferences, Leader Jarek, but what flavors does Prince Cailan crave?”

Not sure what Nikolai was asking, Cailan looked toward Jarek for clarification.  “What flavors do I crave?” he repeated uncertainly.

“Fire pies are not all the same,” Jarek explained.  “They can be made to appeal to an individual’s personal taste preferences.  Nikolai would like to know what taste you are in the mood for.  Something sweet?  Tangy?  Fruity?  Meaty?”

Cailan was growing more and more curious about these fire pies, and all the options Jarek presented sounded appealing.  “Maybe something sweet?” he finally decided.

Jarek nodded and looked toward Nikolai.  “Cailan has a sweet tooth today, Nik.  Can you fill it?”

The older man huffed good-naturedly.  “Of course I can!”

Jarek chuckled and took another sip of his drink, and then explained to Cailan that Nikolai’s six grown children, as well as several grandchildren, would be helping him the day of the palace festivities.

A few minutes later, Nikolai stood opposite of them at the fire pit, and put two long, cast-iron poles directly into the fire. 

“What’s that on the poles?” Cailan asked, noticing the ends in the fire looked different to anything he’d seen before.

“I call them ‘pockets’,” Nikolai told him.  “The raw ingredients for the pies are put in those pockets, sealed shut, and then cooked directly in the fire.”

Curious, Cailan couldn’t help studying the iron poles, wishing he could see how the food was cooking, while Jarek and Nikolai conversed. 

When Nikolai announced the pies should be ready, he took the irons out of the fire with thick pads protecting his hands, and carried them to a stone table.  Cailan couldn’t tell what their host did from the angle he was at, but a short while later Nikolai returned to them with two steaming items wrapped in thick napkins.  He handed one to Jarek and the other to Cailan, with a warning to let the pies cool for a minute before eating them.

Cailan studied the fire pie for a moment, noting that it looked nothing like the pies he was used to.  Instead, it appeared to be a small, enclosed pastry, about the size of his hand.

“What’s inside it?” he asked.

Jarek chuckled next to him.  “Nikolai likes to surprise people.  Take a bite and see.”

“Just take a small bite at first, to make sure it’s cool enough,” Nikolai advised. 

Tentatively, Cailan brought the pie to his lips and took a bite off the end.  It was mostly the outer crust he got on this first bite, but the flaky outer shell was light and tasteful.  His second bite allowed him to taste the filling, and his eyes widened appreciatively as the flavors of rich, dark chocolate and sweet raspberry filled his mouth.

“Oh my!  That’s delicious!” he exclaimed.  “Jarek, you have to taste this!”

Nikolai was smiling as Jarek willingly took a bite of the pie.  He hummed approvingly.  His face showing his agreement of Cailan’s enjoyment, and held up his own fire pie for Cailan to taste.  Eagerly, Cailan bit into the pastry, surprised by the flavors of seasoned steak and cheese.  Swallowing the bite, he looked enthusiastically to their host.

“Nikolai, these are wonderful!”

“I’m so glad, your highness,” Nikolai replied. 

“How many different kinds do you make?” Cailan questioned before taking another bite of his pie and moaning over its decadence.

“I’ve come up with twenty-six acceptable combinations so far, and I’m always experimenting with others.”

“Twenty-six?  That’s impressive,” Cailan replied while wondering how long it would take him to try each one.

With a knowing grin, Jarek added to the conversation.  “Tell my husband some of your less-than-successful concoctions.”

Nikolai laughed.  “Well, the nut butter and venison was not my most inspired attempt, although the nut butter with apple was tasty.  I think the worst was the salted orange cream, though.  Not even my goat would touch that one!”

Jarek and Cailan both laughed. 

They visited with Nikolai for a bit longer, and then Jarek withdrew a scroll from his cloak.  “We’ve brought the crest to announce your service for the king during the Starlight Festival, Nikolai.  Shall we attach it to your door?”

His cheerful face brightening even more, Nikolai nodded.  “King Alaric honors me with the crest, as do you and Prince Cailan for delivering it so personally, my lord.”

“Your pies and the Starlight festival are practically synonymous.  Besides, you’re a friend to the palace.  We’re glad to have you, Nik.”

The three of them headed toward the establishment’s front door, with Nikolai opening it and watching with a glad smile as Jarek nailed the scroll with the royal crest at eye level.  Nikolai bowed respectfully to Jarek and Cailan once the crest was hung, and the men said pleasant good-byes before the door closed and Jarek guided Cailan to grasp his arm.

“Our next two visits are in walking distance.  We’ll return to the carriage after we complete them.”

They moved quickly down the street, the cold air stinging their cheeks until Jarek pointed out a building and ushered them inside.  Unlike Nikolai’s place, the room they entered was filled with people, along with the sounds of a multitude of instruments.  A moment after they entered, the noise ceased abruptly, and all eyes in the room turned to them.  The majority of those eyes were quite young and looked utterly surprised, while the face of the one adult in the room lit up joyfully and hurried to greet them.  He almost tripped when he tried to bow while still moving, but managed to catch himself before tumbling into them.  With a mildly embarrassed smile and blushing cheeks, the man managed a proper bow before addressing them.

“Leader Jarek, I just received word this morning to expect you.  Thank you so much for coming!”

Jarek nodded his acceptance of the man’s welcome, smiling when he met their host’s eyes.  “I’m more than happy to fulfill this role today.”  He then brought Cailan a bit closer.  “Cailan, this is Darin Sorenson.  He is both a professional musician and a gifted teacher of instruments in many of our schools.  Darin, this is my husband, Prince Cailan of Arten.”

Darin’s eyes widened fractionally before he bowed again.  “It’s an honor to be in your presence, Prince Cailan.  Your brave actions in saving our queen and our kingdom is known throughout the land and will never be forgotten.”

“Thank you, Darin,” Cailan replied graciously, copying Jarek’s accepting nod.

Jarek then directed everyone’s attention to the rest of the room’s occupants.  “I take it these are the talented entertainers that you and your wife are teaching for the festival.”

Darin’s head bobbed excitedly.  “Yes, sire.  My wife just stepped out to prepare some refreshments for them.  Children!” he called as he turned toward the group of young faces.  “We have some very special visitors!”

Jarek leaned close to speak softly to Cailan while Darin moved to organize his students.  “Darin has formed a children’s orchestra, handpicking young talents from Palace City and the towns just outside of it.  His wife writes much of the music they play, and they provide boarding and care for the students whenever the orchestra travels.  They are going to be amongst the performers at the festival.  Sana was the first to hear them and she picked them to be a part of the entertainment.”

Cailan’s eyes took in the twenty or so Cylandrean children filling the room, chattering to each other in high-pitched voices, yet listening surprisingly well to Darin as he directed them in carefully setting their instruments at rest and moving to several low tables away from the area in which they had been rehearsing.  He couldn’t help smiling at those who looked toward him and Jarek, but he didn’t interfere in the goings-on. 

A woman with a beautiful purple showing through the braid in her thick black hair came into the room a minute later.  A tray looking to be filled overly much with small drink cups was balanced carefully in her hands.  The glasses wobbled slightly and clinked together when she caught sight of the two royal men standing in the room.  For a moment, she looked undecided of what to do, but Jarek quickly waved a hand toward the children.

“Please, Lady Sorenson, serve the children their drinks.  There’s no offense for us to wait our turn.”

Her expression grateful, the woman moved to the children’s tables, calling out two names as she did so and having the girls who stood help her deliver the small cups.  As soon as the tray was empty, she set it aside, ran her hands over her hair and turned apologetically to the men. 

“I’m so sorry I wasn’t here to greet you when you entered, Leader Jarek,” she said quickly.

Jarek raised his hand, shaking his head cordially.  “No apologies needed,” he assured, and then made introductions between her and Cailan. 

Like her husband and Nikolai, Lady Sorenson praised his fulfilment of the silver prophecies, making Cailan silently wonder if the people would ever know him as a person beyond those happenings.  He said nothing though, just stood out of the way with Jarek while the husband and wife made sure the children had what they needed for the time being.

Darin rejoined them while the kids settled into their refreshment.  “If your highnesses have time, I know the children would love to perform one of their songs for you.  Would it be possible?”

“I was hoping you would offer,” Jarek told the teacher.  “We’d love to hear them.”

“Wonderful!” Darin exclaimed.

A short time later, the young musicians had reclaimed their rehearsal seats and settled down with their instruments.  Cailan noticed that the varying string and wind instruments had all been modified to suit small hands and fingers, and seeing the youthful Cylandreans expertly handle their musical devices made him smile. 

Darin and Lady Sorenson encouraged Jarek and Cailan into seats, and then Darin stepped up to a narrow podium in front of the young orchestra.  He tapped the stand three times with a sleek, black baton, ensuring all the children’s eyes were on him. 

“We’re playing The Singing Wind, everyone.  Instruments at your ready,” he instructed.

Unanimously, little arms and hands moved their instruments into position.  There was a moment of complete hush, and then Darin gave the gentlest of flicks of his baton, and the delicate resonance of wind flutes filled the room.

Cailan caught his breath.  It was amazing how just that initial sound was shockingly soul-touching.  Those first flutes were soon joined by their fellow wind instruments, and then the soft rumble of percussion and strings entered in. 

The song was not one Cailan had heard before, but it was slow and beautiful, like the background to an unfolding love story.  Cailan was taken in by it, and when the last note faded away, he nearly mourned the ending of the music. 

The room seemed frozen in time for a moment, but then Jarek rose from his seat and Cailan followed suit, waiting for his husband to speak first.

“That was marvelous,” Jarek told the young group with sincerity.  “I can’t wait to hear your entire performance at the festival.  I will most definitely claim a front-row seat.”

Cailan nodded his agreement and took his turn to speak when Jarek finished.  “I enjoyed that immensely.  Thank you so much for sharing your talent with us.”

All the children and both Sorensons looked inordinately pleased with the praise.  The two adults bowed, and then with a flick of his baton, Darin guided the young musicians to rise and take a bow as well.

Jarek nodded regally to the group, and then withdrew a small bag from his cloak.  “We’ve brought a token from the royal family for each of you,” he announced.  “Since you are part of the ruling family’s chosen entertainment for the festival, it is important you look the part.”

Jarek reached into the bag and pulled out a small pin made to look like the Lysander royal crest.  “We ask that you wear these pins during the festival, and thank you for representing the palace.”

He then gave a handful of the small pins to Cailan, and the two of them moved to the children and began gently attaching the tokens to each boy and girl’s collar.

Cailan was charmed by the young orchestra members’ maturity as he carefully attached a pin to each child.  Their ages ranged from the oldest at thirteen, to the youngest—a very tiny six-year-old who played a miniscule lap-harp beautifully.  Every child held perfectly still as they were pinned, and then offered respectful yet excited thank yous as they marveled at the tokens that marked them as being chosen by the royal family. 

Cailan gave his last pin to a little girl who had hints of pink in her long black hair.  He held back a chuckle when the child sucked in a deep breath and held it while he attached the pin to her collar.  She let the breath out with a whoosh when he finished, but then tugged on his shirt as he started to rise.  He knelt back down and offered her his attention. 

“Did you need something, little one?”

She shook her head, but her big eyes looked at him hopefully.  “My mama said I might meet the king and queen and the rest of you,” she told him.  “And daddy told me that Leader Jarek fell in love with Cailan the silver-hair who saved the queen’s life.  Is that you?”

He nodded.  “I am Cailan.”

The little girl’s face lit with a smile and she knelt down to the case in which her harp was kept and pulled out a paper.  “I drew you a picture!” she exclaimed happily.  “As a thank you.”

She showed him the colorful drawing as she described it.  “See, that’s you,” she said, pointing to a stick man with rather large hands and feet, and obviously silver hair.  “And that’s leader Jarek.”

Cailan hid a laugh behind a cough as she pointed to the black-haired man she’d drawn.  This one was not a stick figure, but instead had a circle for a torso.  The two figures were holding hands though, and Cailan thought that was incredibly sweet. 

“The heart up here is because you’re in love,” the child continued as she pointed to a large heart above their heads.  “And this is the castle over here where you live with the king and queen,” she finished.  “Do you like it?”

Not being able to help himself, Cailan wrapped an arm around the little girl and gave her a gentle hug.  “I love it!  And I have a special place at the palace I plan to keep it, so I can look at it whenever I want.  Thank you so much!”

The child beamed and then gave him a big hug.  He chuckled when she finally let him go and smiled at her. 

“What’s your name, sweetheart?”

“Glory,” she answered him.

“That’s a lovely name. Thank you again, Glory.  Your picture will be one of my treasures.”

Later, as he and Jarek walked further up the cobbled street to their next destination, Cailan showed Jarek the drawing.  The man laughed as he saw the image of himself. 

“Perhaps I need to reduce my food intake.  If I’m as round as Glory makes me out to be, I have a few pounds to lose.”

Cailan laughed.  “You’re perfect as you are.  She probably made you round to make up for making me look as thin as an arrow.”

“Well, while I agree that a few more pounds on your frame would be good for you, I think you’re perfect too,” Jarek stated.

Cailan rolled his eyes.  “I told you when you first said something that I tend to lose a few pounds in winter.  Cold weather dampens my appetite.”

“Which I still say is odd.  It has the opposite effect on me.  Besides which, you still haven’t fully gained back what you lost while healing from your wounds, so you aren’t in a position to be losing more.  How is your leg holding up by the way?”

“It’s perfectly fine,” Cailan assured.  “Other than an occasional twinge, it’s fully healed.” He gave Jarek a stern look.  “So no more going easy on me during trainings.  I won’t have your soldiers thinking I would be a detriment to them should they need me in battle.”

“You train just as hard as they do,” Jarek argued.

Cailan shook his head.  “If you think I’m straining it, you tell me to monitor the soldiers’ form or to talk with the company captain about tactics and strategies.  That may have been necessary initially, but it no longer is required.”

Jarek had the grace to look sheepish.  “Caught on to that, did you?”

“I’m not a fool, Jarek, and neither are your men.  I guarantee I’m not the only one who has noticed.  I will not have their respect if they perceive you cosseting me.”

“You are a hero, Cailan, and always will be in their eyes.  You were injured because of your heroism, and nearly died from it.  They will not think less of you.”

“Perhaps for now they won’t.”  Cailan’s tone didn’t let up on its seriousness though.  “The events with the attack on Queen Kesla are still fresh on everyone’s mind, but eventually time will cause what happened to feel less important, and I have decades ahead of being a soldier and an authority to them while I’m at your side.  They need to keep seeing that they can depend on my skills, that I can support them in battle.”

Remembering that Cailan’s very commendable skills had not been valued by his own country, people, and family, Jarek understood his spouse’s fear, and agreed that Cailan had a point. 

“Your argument is valid,” he conceded.  “I will allow you to train as is fitting for your position and ability.  However, if your leg pains you to the point you fear a reinjury, I expect you to let me know at once.”

There was a clear hesitation on Cailan’s part, and Jarek stopped them walking and faced his husband.  “I mean those words, petling.  If you do not obey them, I’ll apply the stick to your backside.”

Cailan’s eyes flashed.  “That’s not fair!”

“It’s not fair of me to keep you uninjured, or expect you to not strain your body foolishly?”

Cailan maintained his glare, but slowly acknowledged Jarek’s point.  “Fine, I’ll let you know, but I won’t demean myself in front of the men.”

It wasn’t fully what Jarek wanted, but it was close enough.  Cailan had both the pride of a man and a royal in him, and Jarek didn’t want to take that away. 

They spent most of the rest of the day visiting the other vendors who would be a part of the festival, and it was an enjoyable way to fulfill their royal duties.  They got to taste-test several delicious cuisines, hear other musicians and singers, and examine some of the wares that would be sold.  However, despite being in and out of homes and businesses, both men were chilled through by the time they made it back to the palace, as the temperature had steadily dropped during the day.

Cold fingers made it difficult to undo buttons and ties, and by unspoken agreement they moved immediately to their bathing room and sank into the heat of the water.  They groaned unanimously in appreciation of the warmth, and then laughed.

“I haven’t felt quite that cold in a while,” Cailan admitted.

“It’s been a while for me too.  The wind was bitter today.”

Cailan moved gracefully through the water and to the ledge where a supply of sponges and soaps were kept.  He handed one of each to Jarek, and then took some for himself and began washing and talking at the same time.  “How cold does it get during the festival, particularly on Starlight Day?  Most everyone will be outside for hours for the entertainment and celebration.”

“It’s never warm,” Jarek admitted.  “But each vendor will be provided with a heating unit for their tent, and there’ll be several fire pits and other larger heating units set around the area.  Plus, people know to dress warmly on that day.”  He gave Cailan a rueful look.  “You and I would have been smart to add another layer to our clothing this morning, but I didn’t realize we’d be outside almost as much as we’d be inside, or that it would be quite so cold.”

“Well, I’m starting to warm up now.”  Cailan ducked under the water for several seconds, and then came back up with his silver hair dripping water down his face, and shimmering even more if possible.  Jarek was still struck with awe sometimes when he saw that shimmer, knowing it was something unique to the royal family.  Seeing it in Cailan’s hair, and knowing it was there because he had passed it on to his spouse, made Jarek feel incredibly lucky, happy, and aroused.  He moved to stand in front of his husband and began massaging a palmful of hair cream in the silver tresses.  Even wet, they felt soft, and he grinned when Cailan gave a pleased moan and shut his eyes.

“Feel good, petling?”

“Very,” Cailan answered, and there was a hint of breathlessness in his voice. 

There was a responding huskiness in Jarek’s tone when he finished washing Cailan’s hair and then ordered him to their bed.  Being cold wasn’t a problem after that.

*****

The next day, Cailan had his lessons in the morning.  He and Prince Sem usually met in the palace library, which Cailan tended to think was both a good and bad location.  Good because he loved being surrounded by so many books, and he had his pick to choose from when he needed to research something.  Bad because all those books could be a distraction, and sometimes he’d rather read something more interesting than his current lesson. 

He’d given in to that distracting temptation three times over the last couple months.  Jarek had been lenient the first time his giving in had caused him to not complete a lesson on time, with just a warning to keep his focus where it should be.

The second time wasn’t as merciful.  The warning part was omitted, and he was taken over Jarek’s knee instead, which had not been pleasant, although Cailan hadn’t argued against it.  He had a lot to learn and wasting time that had been set aside for him to understand his new country wasn’t acceptable behavior. 

Unfortunately, knowing that hadn’t prevented him from giving into the temptation a third time.  For that offense he had been restricted from all reading, including his lesson time, for three days.  That had been awful, and as much as he was still tempted at times, Cailan did not want such a privilege taken away again.

That morning, Sem was already waiting for him when he arrived at the library.  The other man was setting a book down on the desk Cailan used, and he looked up with a smile when Cailan entered.

“Good morning,” Sem greeted.  “Ready to continue your history lessons?”

“Yes, but I’d like to focus on something specific,” Cailan requested. 

“Of course.”  Sem sat in the chair he usually taught the lessons from.  “What did you have in mind?”

“Holidays.  Particularly Starlight Day and the ice festival.”  Cailan took his typical seat and mirrored Sem.  “Jarek and I visited the vendors for it yesterday, but he was only able to give me a brief explanation of it.  I’d like to know more.”

Sem’s eyes lit with pleasure.  “That’s an excellent idea.  I should have started teaching you about our special days earlier.”  He rose and moved to the bookshelves and began scanning their titles, even as he kept talking.  “What did Jarek tell you about Starlight Day?”

 “He explained that it’s a national holiday because it was the day the country’s first king was crowned—your ancestor, Trace, I think.”

Sem nodded as he pulled some volumes down.  “That’s right.  King Trace Lysander was Cylandrea’s first king.”

“Jarek also said it’s the day with the shortest sun and longest starlight, hence its name, and that gift exchanges are common.”

“Also correct.  Anything else?”

Cailan shrugged as Sem turned back to him with three thick books in his arms.  “He explained a little about how you celebrate each year, but I’m not really familiar with the details of its history or the traditions involved in it.”

“It’s my favorite holiday,” Sem said as he dropped the books onto the desk with a loud thunk.  “Sana’s too.  In fact, most Cylandreans would probably say Starlight Day and its traditions are their favorite.  It’s a wonderful time of year.”

“I understand its significance as far as the start of your royal government, but what else is involved?  What are the traditions everyone celebrates?”

“Well, this is likely to take up our entire weeks’ worth of lessons.”  Sem didn’t sound bothered by that, but he directed Cailan’s attention to the books he’d brought over.  “I’ll use our lesson time today to give you an overview of the holiday and answer any initial questions you have, but you’ll spend a lot of time reading these this week.  This book…” He pointed to the volume on top of the stack. “…is the royal documented biography of King Trace.  An abbreviated version is taught in our schools, but the royal family is given all the details.”  He smiled at Cailan.  “And you are a part of the royal family now.”

Sem had always been friendly to him, but that affirmation of his place in the Lysander family warmed Cailan’s heart.  His smile back at Sem was sincere.

“This one,” Sem continued, “addresses all major Cylandrean holidays.  For the most part, each chapter addresses one holiday or celebration.  It will give you a lot of information, although still mostly just a detailed summary of each one. 

“And this one is a bit different.”  He pulled out the book at the bottom of the pile.  “It’s a collection of essays done by school children—all ages—of what Starlight Day means to them.  I thought you might enjoy that.”

Cailan’s grin widened.  “I definitely would.”

“Good.  There are other books I can direct you to later, but I thought these would be a good start.  Do you have anything you want to ask right away?”

Cailan had quite a few questions, but he was more desirous to simply hear about the day itself.  “Can you just tell me about Starlight Day, your understanding of it?” he requested.

“Sure.” Sem leaned back and placed his feet on footstool.  He was the least formal of the four royal siblings, but that just made Cailan feel comfortable with him.  “Since the root of Starlight Day is an ancestral thing for me, it’s always been a very significant time of year in my experience.  Although, as a young child, it was more about the fun stuff—the celebrations and gatherings and gifts.  Especially the gifts.”

“What kind of gifts, and why are gifts received and given?”  Cailan leaned forward, anxious to know more.

“It’s one of the traditions,” Sem explained.  “Actually, it’s one of the earliest traditions.  When my ancestor, King Trace, was crowned, the people of Cylandrea came from its furthest borders to be present on that day, and every family who came brought a gift of some sort.  Animals were the most common offerings, and they were the best the people had.  Gift baskets of food were also brought, as well as handmade items varying from simple but beautiful trinkets to expensive jewelry, tapestries, and artwork.  Those gifts were the foundation of the royal treasury, and many of the original pieces are still here in the palace walls.”

“Really?” Cailan asked, fascinated.

Sem grinned.  “Absolutely.  You’ll have to have Jarek, and preferably Sana, take you to the treasury room and give you a tour.”

“Why Sana?”

“Because she’s the most familiar with it.” Sem got that look of a brother knowing a sibling’s weaknesses.  “As proper and shy as Sana is, she gets quite excitable over sparkly things.”  He waggled his fingers like he was showing off a handful of rings, although in reality he only wore his signet.  “Sana knows the contents of the treasury and the history of the pieces better than anyone.  She’s also done her bit to enlarge the contents of the treasury room as well.”

“How so?”

“She’s gifted in seeing quality and recognizing authenticity of jewels and artistry.  Alaric has given her a special stipend to make investment purchases for our coffers.”

Cailan was impressed, although not surprised. “That shows a lot of faith, but I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a governing family quite as devoted to each other as yours.”

His words clearly pleased Sem.  “Thank you, but getting back to Starlight Day.  Besides the treasury being started, the animals that were gifted started the flocks that are shepherded by men chosen by the palace.  But King Trace did something special with them.”

“What?”

“Well, he didn’t keep all the animals for himself.  Half of them were set aside for the royal family, so flocks and herds could be started of sheep, cattle, goats, and chickens.  Those would be used to feed the family and servants within the palace.  The other half, King Trace gave back to the people for their benefit.”

That confused Cailan.  “He gave them back?  Didn’t that offend those who offered them?”

Sem shook his head.  “He didn’t give them back in that sense.  What he did was use them to start more flocks and herds, and those animals are raised to provide assistance and necessities to those who are struggling to provide for themselves.  Those animals are for the people, a gift from the royal family back to the subjects we’ve promised to lead and care for.”

“Wow.  That was really generous, and showed a lot of forethought.”  Cailan’s thoughts were working on how he could present this idea to his own father the next time he saw him.

“That wasn’t the only way King Trace returned a gift to the people,” Sem continued.  “All the donated foods on the crowning day were used to provide a banquet to everyone they could stretch the rations too, which kind of started the idea of an annual celebration to be held on palace grounds.”

“The ice festival and Starlight Day events,” Cailan deduced.

“Yes, and Trace took all seeds and saplings given as gifts and did the same with them as he did the animals.  Half were planted and tended, and to this day are used to make provision to those who dwell in the palace.  The other half are cultivated and used for the benefit of the Cylandrean people.”

Cailan was impressed with the wisdom and foresight King Trace appeared to have had.  “So, this is why gifts are included in Starlight Day, because the people gifted the newly crowned king, and he gifted things back to the people?”

Sem nodded.  “Yes, it’s a tradition of generosity.  Although,” one side of his mouth tipped in a boyish grin, “as children we all tended to like the “getting” part of the gift process more than the giving.”

Cailan laughed.  “I bet!” 

Sem laughed with him, and when they quieted, Cailan asked another question.  “I met a lot of the vendors that will be a part of the ice festival and the events on Starlight Day.  How did all that develop into such a part of the holiday?”

“It’s something that has progressed throughout the generations.  During King Trace’s rule, the celebration was primarily a large banquet hosted by the palace.  His eldest son, Terryn, expanded the celebration into a full day event, including musical entertainment along with the annual banquet.  Eventually it became the Ice Festival that lasts for a week, with the peak being the events and entertainment on Starlight Day.”

Cailan was fascinated, and continued to ask questions throughout the rest of their lesson time.  When notice that the noon meal would soon be brought, he and Sem ended the day’s studies, although Cailan happily took the three books Sem had given him back to his and Jarek’s suite of rooms.

After that, anytime he wasn’t working with Jarek in training or attending to other duties, Cailan’s attention was in the three books.  His respect for King Trace grew as he read the ancestral king’s biography, and he laughed quite a bit through the book of children’s essays.  Like Prince Sem, most of the children focused on the gift portion of the holiday, but some wrote of their excitement over the festival activities or foods they got to eat.  A few others focused on traditions within their own families that were special to them.  Apparently, many families decorated their homes and brought greenery, even live trees, inside to adorn with trimmings to mark the occasion.  Some children wrote of family singing times, or once-a-year travels to visit family or special places they only saw during this occasion.  It warmed Cailan’s heart to read of such things, and made him think about him and Jarek.  Perhaps they could create their own traditions for this time of year.

As he pondered what special activities they could do, he was reminded of what he’d been learning about the gift-giving part of the holiday.  Families and friends exchanged gifts with each other, and that apparently was a tradition the royal family also did among themselves.  That meant Cailan would be expected to have gifts for Jarek and the others, but not only did he not know what gifts would be appropriate, he had no money of his own to purchase anything.  As a royal, his needs were taken care of by the palace funds, and as of yet he’d had no need to make any other purchases in his new land.

He supposed he could request funds from his family’s coffers in Arten.  His mother could bring them the next week when she would visit, but he didn’t like that idea.  It just didn’t feel right.  It also didn’t feel right to request use of royal funds here in Cylandrea.  Even if it was to give gifts to those he cared about here, it felt like taking advantage of something he hadn’t earned the right to use yet.

These anxious thoughts initially only niggled at him, but over the course of a few days, they began to weigh him down with stress.  He worked to ignore the worries during the day so they didn’t interfere with his military training or other duties, but they tended to bombard him at night when there was nothing else to think about. 

For the third night in a row now, he was struggling to rest as monetary concerns filled his thoughts. There had to be an honest way to obtain the funds without having to ask for the resources from anyone.  Maybe there were some personal items he could clandestinely sell to gain some coins.

His worries were abruptly interrupted when Jarek rolled over in bed, flopped an arm around Cailan’s waist, and squeezed in a way that meant the older man was no longer sleeping.

“Alright,” his voice, husky with sleep, growled.  “Three nights you’ve put space between us in bed.  Who is in trouble, you or me?”

Cailan squirmed.  “I haven’t done anything.”

“So me,” Jarek pushed.

“No, you’ve not done anything either.  I’m just restless.”

A tired sigh ruffled Cailan’s hair, and then Jarek reached over to light a lamp and made them both sit up against their pillows.  He rubbed a hand over his face, clearly trying to wake himself further, but gave his attention to Cailan.  “Why are you restless?”

Cailan shook his head, his pride not letting him share.  A prince should not be worrying about a lack of money.  “I don’t know. I just am.”

Jarek didn’t look convinced, or impressed.  “Petling, I know there’s a reason behind it, and I’d rather neither of us lose more sleep than necessary.  So, you can either tell me right now, or I can spank you for lying and then you can tell me.  What’ll it be?”

“Jarek!”

The older man didn’t give in to the whine in Cailan’s voice.  “What’ll it be?” he repeated.

Cailan’s gaze moved to the blankets covering them.  “That’s not fair, Jarek.  Some of my worries don’t concern you, and I need to figure them out for myself.”

“No, that’s not true.”  Jarek’s hand found Cailan’s and he entwined their fingers.  “You’re my husband, soon to be twice over.”  He grinned, reminding Cailan that while they had already been married in Arten, a second ceremony to happen there in Cylandrea was approaching quickly.  “All of your worries are mine to be concerned about too.  We solve problems together.  So, tell me why you haven’t been sleeping.”

Cailan dropped his head to Jarek’s shoulder, accepting that Jarek’s words were right.  “I’ve been thinking about Starlight Day.”

When he stopped there, Jarek wiggled the shoulder Cailan’s head was on.  “What about it?”

“The gift part of it.”  He sighed, and admitted with shame.  “I don’t have a way to give gifts to anyone, Jarek.  There are no funds that are solely mine to spend.”

“What are you talking about?  What about your allowance?”

“You mean my funds in Arten?  I had a stipend to spend at my leisure when I lived there, but I don’t know that it would be mine now since I’ve married, and it feels disrespectful to ask for it.”

Jarek shook his head.  “No, I didn’t mean those funds, although that’s something we do need to address with your father.  I mean the allowance you receive as a member of the Lysander royal family.”

It was Cailan’s turn to look confused.  “What allowance?”

“Every member of the royal family, whether born to it or married into it, is given a stipend to spend, invest, or bestow to another as he or she sees fit.  Didn’t you know this?”

Wide-eyed, Cailan shook his head.  “No?  Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I thought you knew.  I assumed Sem would have explained it during your fiscal lessons.”

“Well he didn’t,” Cailan told him, feeling disgruntled.  “When did this allowance start?”

“The day we married,” Jarek told him.

“How do I access it?  Is it really mine to use as I please?”

“It’s really yours.  You’ve earned it just as the rest of us do in fulfilling our duties to our king and our people.  Tomorrow I’ll show you where it’s kept and how to access it, okay?”

Cailan nodded, wishing they could do that right now, but knowing it would be wiser to wait until morning.

“Think you’ll be able to sleep now?”

Cailan grinned.  “Yeah, I think so.”

Jarek scooted down the bed and brought Cailan down with him.  His arm pulled Cailan against his side until the silver head rested on his chest.  “Go to sleep then.”

*****

Jarek fulfilled his promise to show Cailan what funds were available to him.  After breakfast, he sent a message requesting Prince Sem and the palace’s lead bookkeeper to join him and Cailan in one of the common rooms.  A short time later, the three men and a woman with intelligent eyes gathered together.

Jarek made initial introductions.  “Cailan, this is Lady Maia.  She leads the team of servants who keep an accurate accounting of the treasury.  Lady Maia, this is my husband, Prince Cailan of Arten.”

“It’s an honor to meet you, Prince Cailan,” the woman greeted.  “Although I’m surprised it has taken this long.”

“The fault lies with the two of us,” Jarek explained as he pointed between himself and Sem.  “We both assumed the other had explained this aspect of life to Prince Cailan, but have come to discover that neither of us did.”  Jarek turned his attention back to Cailan.  “Lady Maia is highly detailed in her job and works closely with Princess Sana when it comes to the treasury, but since Sana is away visiting our parents, I asked Sem to join us and help explain anything you might be questioning.”

Cailan nodded his understanding and looked toward the lone female in the room. “Thank you, Lady Maia, for taking the time with us.”

She nodded in return and Jarek directed the four of them to a table.  Lady Maia then opened a thick book she had been carrying and flipped several pages, almost ignoring the men around her as she studied the written entries.

“This is the most recent log book for the treasury,” Prince Sem explained, filling in for Maia’s silence.  “We actually have a small library, which is kept locked and discreetly guarded, to house the archive of log books for the treasury.  Anytime you wish to make a withdrawal from your personal accounts, or add an investment to the royal coffers, the details and amounts will be carefully logged by either Maia or one of the staff working with her.”

“The treasury team is directly answerable to Princess Sana, and then King Alaric ultimately,” Jarek added.

“Does the entire royal family know how the money is used?” Cailan asked.

The two brothers nodded, but Sem gave an explanation. “We all stay updated on both palace and government finances.  We have quarterly meetings to discuss fiscal matters, the next of which is scheduled after the upcoming holiday, and most of us arrange personal meetings with Lady Maia’s team to keep up to date as we are able.”

“But we don’t interfere in how we each spend our own funds,” Jarek interjected.  “That’s private information unless we choose to share it with each other.”

“So how do I know what funds are mine or others, and how do I access them?”

Jarek nodded toward their lead bookkeeper.  “I’ll let Lady Maia go over some of that.”

The woman had apparently located the pages in the log book she desired, and then spent the next half hour explaining how her team kept the logs updated, the system of accountability that was in place, and the columns that were titled either according to use or according to the owner of specific funds.  It was all rather complicated, but Cailan managed to follow along, and thought rather proudly to himself that his studies and interest in reading throughout his life were helping quite a bit in his current comprehension.

Lady Maia had been turning pages as she explained different aspects of her job and the managing of the treasury.  In the last dozen or so pages, Cailan noticed his name topped a new column in the log, but Maia covered several other things before tapping her pen on that particular feature. 

“Your funds started on this day,” she told him, pointing to the date at the top of the page, “and your weekly allotment has been added since then.  Since no withdrawals have been made, each notation has been marked as a credit, and this is the current total of funds at your disposal.”

Cailan just barely managed to withhold showing his surprise at the amount she pointed to.  There was a lot of generosity in the allowance he was being given.

“I appreciate having this information.  Thank you,” he expressed.  “How is it that I access these funds if I choose to?”

“It’s a matter of contacting myself or a member if my team,” Lady Maia told him.  “You can send a message for a meeting, or just come to the fiscal offices set aside for us.”

“I’ll escort you to those when we’re done here,” Jarek told him. 

Lady Maia continued almost as if Jarek hadn’t spoken.  Cailan held back a smile.  The woman wasn’t rude; she was simply very focused on her immediate task.  “When withdrawing funds, you just need to tell us the amount you’d like to have in hand, and we’ll retrieve it for you.  You’ll sign off in the log book at that time.  If you ever wish to look into an investment, or make a purchase you’re unsure about, my team can help you with that as well.  They are well-informed in most financial matters, and if they do not have an immediate answer for you, they will know how to research what you need to know.”

“So, I’m allowed to do personal investing?” Cailan asked.

“Absolutely,” Jarek told him.  “Some ventures will prove worthwhile and some won’t, but no one will tell you what you can do with your personal funds unless a law has been broken.”

“And we’ve gone over the financial laws in our lessons,” Sem reminded.  “So, I don’t think you have to worry about that.”

“What about the palace and government funds?  Lady Maia explained the logs books in a way that made it sound like I’d be a part of that aspect of things.”

“You will be,” Jarek said without hesitation.  “Everyone in the royal family is involved in that, and have been for generations.”

That surprised Cailan.  In his experience, only the immediate ruler and those he chose to include—usually his heir and a select few financial advisors—were involved in such far-reaching decisions.

Jarek must have noticed his surprise, because he explained further.  “King Alaric always has final say on these matters, Cailan.  As king, it is his duty to do so, and the people rely on him to be fair.  However, to maintain that fairness and have a broad understanding of where needs lie, we the family work together to make sure wise decisions are made and that necessary information is brought to the table.  We also have the option to suggest expenditures and investments that we believe could benefit the palace and the people.  You may not have a lot to say on things right now, since you’re still learning about all this, but your opinions and insights will be heard and considered when you do participate.  You’ll sit at my side at the next fiscal meeting.”

*****

Later that morning, Jarek showed him to the location of the treasury room in the palace.  Getting there was almost like finding your way through a maze.  When he made that comment to Jarek, the older man laughed. 

“That’s exactly what it is.  It will probably take you a little while to memorize the route to the treasury.  It’s simply an extra security measure taken to guard the palace valuables.”

“Who all knows where the treasury is?” Cailan asked.

“Only a very select group,” Jarek answered.  “It’s actually limited to the royal family, the palace sorcerer, and the members of Lady Maia’s team.”

Jarek turned them down another hallway and pointed at the three doors along the right-hand side.  “This is it.  The first door and the third door there are the offices out of which Maia’s crew work.  It’s where you’re likely to find someone when you need to retrieve funds once you understand your way here.  That middle door is the library of logbook archives we told you about earlier.”

Cailan nodded and tried to memorize the look of the hall and the doors.  “You said ‘this is it’ though.  Where’s the treasury?”

“On this side.”  Jarek motioned toward the left of the hall and the three doors parallel to the ones on the opposite side.  “Each door is an entry point into the treasury room, but each door only unlocks on certain days, and unlocking them requires a voice spell only known to those who have authority to enter.  Once inside, it is not possible to leave through the same door you entered.”

“So how do you leave?” Cailan asked the obvious question.

“You exit through one of the other two doors, but it will again require a voice spell different to the one used to enter.” 

“So even if someone without authorization managed to get in, it’s probable they wouldn’t be able to get out, and would be essentially imprisoned in the room until the palace guards came?”

“Exactly.” Jarek moved to the middle door on the left side, pulling Cailan with him.  “I’ll teach you the voice spells and the way they work, but learning to use them will take time and practice.” 

Cailan then watched as Jarek gripped the door’s handle, murmured something completely foreign to his ears, and heard the click of the lock unlatching.  Jarek then led the way inside, and Cailan’s eyes widened at the sight before him.  The room was a large rectangle, and the entirety of every wall was see-through glass cabinets, inside of which revealed enough glitter and sparkle to dazzle even the richest man. 

One long wall of cabinets was all jewelry—necklaces, rings, bracelets, chokers, and earrings were displayed beautifully on a black background.  Cailan could barely take them all in.

The wall opposite the jewelry exhibited gemstones from the floor to the ceiling.  Cailan recognized quartz, rubies, diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires.  Some were precisely designed and cut.  Others were still as raw as the day they’d been mined.  Still other gems were completely unknown to Cailan, but they looked as priceless as the others. 

The two ends of the room were narrower, but still large and splendid to behold.  Silver cutlery adorned the one.  A dozen or more silver table services were displayed and shined to a high gleam.  And in amongst them were candlesticks, banquet bowls, and decorative chalices.

The true glory of the room though, was on the far narrow wall.  From top to bottom, it held crowns, each one delicate but strong, and clearly made from truly gifted hands.

Cailan was utterly speechless.

Jarek let him look around in awe for several minutes, but noticed that Cailan’s attention kept returning to the wall of crowns.  With a hand to the younger prince’s back, he guided him closer to the diadems.

Respectfully, Jarek enlightened Cailan to the display before them.  “From King Trace to my brother, King Alaric, these are the crowns of the Lysander family.”

So many! Cailan thought, as a quick count revealed at least eighty crowns on display.  “I didn’t realize there were so many kings in your history,” he stated, his voice mirroring Jarek’s in respectfulness.

“Oh, it’s not one crown per king,” Jarek clarified.  “Every king has had multiple crowns during his reign, and these also include the crowns of every prince and princess in the royal line, and we also usually have more than one crown depending on our age and the purpose for which we wear it.”  He moved them a few steps to the right and pointed to several at the end of one row.  “Those three are mine.”

Gasping in wonder, Cailan looked closer.  “They’re beautiful!  That’s the one you wore on the day we wed.”

Jarek nodded, and pointed to the smallest of his crowns.  “That one was my first crown, and the one from which I had the amethyst jewel removed that you now wear in your ring.”

Cailan looked down at his hand to the ring Jarek had given him for his nineteenth birthday.  The gift had been incredibly special when it was given, and although Cailan knew the origin of the ring’s purple gem, the gift became more significant to him now that he’d seen the crown from which it was taken.

“You’ll also have crowns made, now that you’re a prince of Cylandrea, and they’ll reside here except during times you are required to wear one,” Jarek told him.

That made sense, but it was a rather overwhelming thought right then, and Cailan chose to think on it more at a later time.  He spun slowly then, and took in the room once more, suddenly realizing that there was something he wasn’t seeing. 

“You, Sem and Lady Maia all mentioned coins and cash, but I see neither.  Are they kept somewhere else?”

Jarek shook his head.  “Not exactly.”  He took Cailan’s hand and moved to the wall of silver services.  “Every cabinet, and every drawer in every cabinet is magically locked, and each one, like the doors to which we enter and exit, is opened through an oral spell.  It will take a long time, but I and my siblings will teach you each one as necessary.  However, that’s not what you asked about.”

It appeared a random choice to Cailan, but Jarek put his hand on a drawer holding a four-piece set of silverware, murmured in that strange language again, and the drawer unlocked.  He then reached in and gently lifted a fork from its spot.  It was only then that Cailan saw a strong thread attached to the fork, and when it was lifted, the entire wall slowly swung open like a door.  Behind it was a room as large as the one they currently stood in, and it held what Cailan had asked about.  Velvet bags of coins were piled together on long shelves, along with stacks of the paper bills Cailan knew the kingdom used for specific things.  There were also bars of solid gold and silver that he assumed could be melted down to make more coins as necessary.

Jarek moved to the velvet bags and looked to Cailan.  “This is where your stipend is kept.  I know you have been concerned about having funds for Starlight Day, but I want you to know that the sharing of gifts is a choice, not a requirement.”

“But I want….” Cailan began, but paused when Jarek lifted a hand.

“I know what you want, and it’s your choice entirely.  You saw what amount is currently yours.  Each of these bags holds seven days’ worth of your earnings.  How much would you like to withdraw?”

Cailan thought about it.  One week’s earnings was quite a bit, but while Sem had taught him a lot about the usage of money and how purchasing or trading occurred in Cylandrea, he didn’t quite know how the country put monetary value onto different things.  Wanting to make sure he had enough, he requested two of the velvet bags.

Jarek didn’t question it at all.  He simply handed two bags to Cailan, who tied them to his belt, and then the two of them exited the coin room.

Just a few minutes later the treasury was securely locked behind them and they were back in the hall. 

“We just need to inform Maia of what you’ve withdrawn so she can mark it in the log book,” Jarek reminded.

Doing that did not take long at all.  Lady Maia was fast and efficient.  Cailan signed his name in a graceful script before leaving the office and following Jarek back through the maze of hallways to their quarters.

Cailan carefully put the money bags into one of his trunks, and then he and Jarek spent the afternoon with one of the soldier companies.

That night, while getting ready for bed, Cailan was no longer worried about his finances, but another challenge presented itself to his mind.  It was a temptation to keep it to himself to figure out, but remembering Jarek’s words that they solved problems together, he knew he needed to speak of it to his husband.

“Jarek?”

“Hm?” Jarek murmured, his attention not entirely on Cailan as he looked through a stack of correspondence that had been delivered.

“I am allowed to leave the palace without you or another member of the royal family, aren’t I?”

That turned Jarek’s attention onto him.  He frowned slightly.  “Yes, of course you are.  I don’t know that I’d recommend doing so until you’re more familiar with the country outside the walls, but you aren’t confined to the premises.”  He stepped in front of the younger man and rested his hands on Cailan’s shoulders.  “You don’t still fear I see you as a slave or possession, do you, petling?  You’re my husband, not a member of the harem.”

Cailan shook his head emphatically, not having meant to give Jarek the wrong impression.  “No!  It’s not that at all.  It’s just that I’ve barely been off the palace grounds, and I just wanted to make sure it wouldn’t be a problem if I spent time outside of them without you or one of the family.”

Now Jarek looked mildly suspicious.  “Do you desire to go somewhere without me?  You aren’t planning anything reckless, are you?”

This time it was Cailan’s turned to frown at Jarek.  “I would not do anything foolish,” he stated.  “But there are some places I’d like to go in preparation for Starlight Day, without others knowing what I’m seeking.  I was also thinking about my mother coming in a few days.  She and Sana and your mother have done a lot in preparation for our nuptials here, but I thought she might like to spend an afternoon with me doing some shopping in the city.  She’s seen even less of Cylandrea than I have.”

The suspicion faded from Jarek’s eyes, and became understanding.  “You make good points, petling.  I really have been lax about introducing you to the kingdom outside our walls.  However, for that reason, I don’t care to have you on your own when you are so unfamiliar with the land.  Is there someone besides the family whom you’d be willing to accompany you on these trips?”

Cailan hadn’t thought about bringing anyone else with him, but Jarek was right.  He wasn’t familiar with the streets and shops and people outside the palace, and it would help to have someone along who was.  He considered those he’d gotten to know besides the royal family, and one name came to mind.

“What about Jothan?” he suggested.  The man was a guard in the palace, but he’d also become a bit of a friend, and someone Cailan shared a meal with occasionally when Jarek was needed elsewhere.

Jarek nodded.  “He’d be a good choice.  He knows Palace City well, and is trustworthy.”

“And he’s a friend,” Cailan added.  “It would be enjoyable to spend time with him outside of our duties.”

“It’s fine with me.  Why not send for him tomorrow and see when would be good for the two of you to go?”

“I’ll do that.”