knightthunderis

[knightthunderis]

This is a whole new ballgame

[knightthunderis]

[knightthunderis]

[knightthunderis]

Christmas Cordonian style Knight Thunder Twist.

Christmas cordonian style with a Knight Thunder twist

  author's note   this story takes place a week after the arrest of Barthelemy Beaumont and those who were with him in the coup against the crown of cordonia.

 The Palace of Cordonia is a buzz with excitement as servants and people alike work together to decorate the capital city for the upcoming Christmas celebration.

Karyson and his Queen Reimeiko were observing as the decorations and preparations were happening.

“It is a Happy Time For Us my dear Reimeiko.   What a celebration the preparations have been going on for days.” Karyson gushed.  “ old man Beaumont and the rest of his conspirators are behind bars my aunt and uncle can finally rest in peace knowing that they're killers are incarcerated for the rest of their lives.   I am relieved as well.   Rhiannon and the twins are growing up free from Barthelemy's tyranny.   and peace is once again returned to our kingdom.”

 “oh yes.”  Queen Reimeiko agreed. “ we are finally able to live our lives and our children are free the grow up away from all the evils that were thrown at them.   all of our friends from all around the kingdom and Beyond have come to help decorate.   BJ and the trio were getting along beautifully and this is our first real Christmas together as a family.”

 before they knew what was happening,  a loud crash could be heard from the kitchen close to the ballroom.  Karyson and Reimeiko  exchanged fearful looks and took off in the direction of the crash.   they both get through this serving doors only Drake fell out on the floor with a bowl of cake mix on his head.

“ what happened?”  the king demanded attempting to hide the laughter behind his feigned anger.

 “It was an accident, honestly.” Maxwell Beaumont  quickly said.  “I was coming one way with a bowl of cake mix. He was coming the other with the apples and we collided. Nothing major we’ll fix it we’ll fix it.”

“Well you had better fix it.” the  King growled  in feigned anger.  “Racine will get both of your butts if you mess up her kitchen and you know how fiercely protective Racine is of her kitchen.” as the king and his queen turned away and walked out of the kitchen once out of earshot they finally busted up laughing. “ did you see the look on Maxwell's face  when he and Drake  thought they were in trouble?  The look of fear was priceless. “

As they exited the kitchen and returned to the Ballroom  and the decorating, Marco and Valerie from Lythikos  and Jiro and Camila from Applewood arrived with their families with more sweet treats and snacks for the celebration.   The Cordonian children  we're given permission to take the time to play with BJ and the trio.

“Thank you for inviting us to your Christmas celebrations your Majesty's.” Camilla announced.  “And we are glad that you were able to save your daughter from being taken over by that bad man.”

“ well the bad man will be no trouble for no body anymore.”  the queen replied. “ he is locked up for the rest of his life and will never harm another Soul ever again.   you know what I have got an idea.   what do you guys say you guys heard BJ & the trio up to the playroom and then I will come and tell y'all A Christmas Story tell you all about how it all began with me and my family.”

“ that would be awesome your highness.” Marco gushed. “ it would be great to hear all about your first Christmas and how things meant for you and yours.”

“ well okay if you will take BJ Rhiannon Ethan and  Gabriel do the playroom The King and I will be up in a few minutes with the Christmas book.”

 without another second to spare the cordonian children took the younger ones up to the playroom and waited for the queen to arrive with her story.   within about 10 minutes the king and queen arrived at the playroom all the children were sitting in a semicircle in front of the rocking chair waiting to hear the Queen's famous story.

“ truth of the matter be told.” Karyson replied. “I cannot wait to hear the story you have come up with my love.”

“ well this is a story that everybody will enjoy.” Reimeko said.  instead of sitting in the rocking chair she pushed it back and set down in the floor with the children and her husband and began her story.  “ this is the story of a Time long ago back before my parents back when my grandparents were still just children my grandfather told us the story years later and it's become a family favorite:  Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house not a creature was stirring not even a mouse the stockings were hung by the chimney with care in hopes that st. Nicholas soon would be there the children were nestled all snug in their beds with visions of sugarplums dancing in their heads.”

 This part of the story is where the king picked it up. “ oh I remember this with mom and her kerchief and I in my cap we had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap.  When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter away to the window I flew like a flash tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.  The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow gave the luster of midday to objects below when what do my wondering eyes should appear but a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer with a little old driver so Lively and quick I knew in that moment it must be Saint Nick More rapid than the Eagles his coursers they came and he whistled and shouted and called them by name now Dasher  now Dancer now Prancer and Vixen on Comet on Cupid on Donner and Blitzen to the top of the porch to the top of the wall now dash away, dash away dash away all as dry leaves up before the wild hurricane fly when they met with an obstacle mount to the sky so up to the Housetop the coursers they flew with the sleigh full of toys and Saint Nicholas II and then in a twinkling I heard on the roof the Prancing and pawing of each little hoof as I drew in my head and was turning around down the chimney st. Nicholas came with a bound.”

 The queen took up the story from then on.   but the story had brought in everyone else to hear the long and blustering Tale. “ he was dressed all in fur from his head to his foot and his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot, a bundle of toys he had flung on his back and look like a peddler just opening his pack his eyes have a twinkled his dimples how merry his cheeks were like roses his nose like a cherry his droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow and the beard on his chin was as white as the snow the stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth and the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath he had a broad little face and a little round belly that shook when he laughed like a bowl full of jelly he was chubby and plump a right Jolly Old elf and I laughed when I saw him in spite of myself a winking his eye and it twisted his head soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread he spoke not a word but it went straight to his work and feel it all the stockings then turn with a jerk and laying his finger aside of his nose and giving a nod up the chimney he rose he sprang to his sleigh his team gave a whistle and a way they are flew like that down of a thistle but I heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight Merry Christmas to all and to all a good-night.”

 The children and everyone assembled sat there in awe as the queen finished the long historical story Amazed by the beauty and the imagery she weaved as she told the story.

“Tell us more your majesty.” Camilla gushed.  “is there more Christmas poems and stories you know that one was amazing especially the tale of the snow.”

“ there is much more there is one by Charles Dickens that was entitled The Christmas Carol but that is a much longer story to be told and right now we have not the time.” the queen replied. “ but the moral of the Christmas story is at least A Christmas Carol is a story if you like I will read to you all at bedtime but for now we have a celebration to get to and hopefully everything is in order.”

 Ethan, Rhiannon, and Gabriel, along with BJ approached Queen Thunderis  with curious eyes. “ was there more to the poem Aunt Rena?” BJ asked. “ it was a very short story but I'd like to know more.”

“ me too  mommy.” Rhiannon echoed. “more Christmas Story pease?”

“ alright here's one I can tell you since we do seem to have time before the big celebration.”  the queen replied.  “ when Jamie Randall and Shannon we're just nine maybe ten years old that was one Christmas that turned into a Christmas miracle.   The  Llewellyn's  had just moved in next door Mr. Llewellyn had joined Thunderstar Universal  and his children Tristan, Erin,  and Jordan had  just enrolled in the nearby Elementary School.   Mrs. Llewellyn was traveling the country with her family to meet up with her married family in time for the holidays.   Miss Rihanna drove a special delivery truck all over the country and was to an extent a female version of Santa Claus. but it wasn't just gifts for the children that she was hauling every year she was also doing everything to help families that didn't have everything they needed. “

“Was there a lot of families like that?”  Camilla asked.  “ I do not understand what did it mean that these families did not have everything they needed?” 

“The families I am referring to are the ones like well your Nobles and Royals call them,  commoners.”  the queen replied. “ because unlike the Nobles and Royals The parents of these families had to work for a living. not everybody born is born into it a family where all they have to do is bark orders at others and get what they want the commoners had to work for everything they had but because of a lot of the Nobles and Royals of the history there were a lot of things that they were unable to afford.  Anyway, Mrs. Rhiannon owned her own Trucking line and was an independent truck driver. Well  this particular holiday season she was called on by a very special family she had grown up around over the years. they asked her to drive what they call the Christmas truck because what  was in the trailer of that special truck what's going to save this one town utter destruction.   well the week before Christmas Mrs. Rhiannon packed it up And headed out for the town of Lincoln Falls which was apparently somewhere in Alaska. they drove for the longest time she and her brother but always called back to her family in order to keep them up-to-date as to where she was she dropped off her load and was on her way back first few days before Christmas Eve when she was supposed to call she did not.   the truck had been found jackknifed into a snowbank on her way back to her family but there was no sign of her or her brother come to find out she and her brother had been rescued by a stranger but this was no ordinary stranger at least I did not think so according to Rhiannon  The Stranger had seen what it happened the snow so hard to see through Rihanna's lost control of the truck and hit the snowbank almost burying the big truck in the snow. The Stranger welcome them back to his home where they could get warm and wait out the blizzard that it hit for what seemed like several days the blizzard blew and blew and blew and by the time it finally stopped Rescuers had found the truck and we're working diligently to dig it out  Rhiannon and her brother had wakened from the sound of someone digging around the in the snow around the truck they were thankful that they had been spared. when they told the dispatcher about what happened and who had helped them they did not at first believe what she said come to find out the stranger name was Liam Alexander that is the name he gave us Rhiannon declared but that is impossible the dispatcher replied Liam Alexander died back in 1956 due to snow storm this just as this one was it couldn't have been him come to find out Rihanna looked in the direction they had gone towards  Liam's house but all she saw for miles and miles with nothing but snow but he was here she protested he saved us we were we were in his house. Liam Alexander was quite the angel back in the day he was always doing everything humanly possible to help all the families who were unable to have anything extra for like Christmas and whatever else even those who were struggling financially and otherwise he would always do what he could to help the night he died he was on the same kind of run you heard the song Angels Among Us by Alabama the dispatch arrest well yeah of course who hasn't Rihanna declared that song tells a story quite literally the dispatcher said I believe there are Angels Among Us sent down to us from somewhere up above They come to you and me In our darkest hours to show us how to live pto teach us how to give and to guide us with the light of love. the dispatcher took Rhiannon to the cemetery and showed her Liam's tombstone with that Epitaph written in the Stone.   Liam James Alexander born March 25th 1936 died December 16th 1956 he was an angel Among Us and he will always be remembered and loved He was only 20 years old the dispatcher said but in his short  years of life he gave more of himself did many others ever thought about. Rhiannon continued home that night and when she finally walked in her door Christmas morning her husband sons and daughter as well as their new neighbors were there to greet her relieved that she made it home safely the last thing she said before she went to bed herself if it was not for Liam Alexander I would not be here today no matter what happens my children never take strangers for granted because when you least expect it they could very well be angels in disguise.

“ it was amazing.” Camila gushed. “ is Miss Rhiannon still alive? I would have loved to have been able to have met her.”

“ well actually you already have.”  Queen Seidre  replied. “ she was me in my younger years. and it was the last run I made before I returned to my husband and my children and my reign as Queen of Thaddea.”

“ all right you guys that's enough stories for now.”  Maxwell called. “ the ballroom the snacks and everything is ready time to get this party on and Christmas Jamboree kicking into high gear let's go you guys come on what do you want stories later.   it is time for presents let's go let's go.”

 as everyone began to move out of the playroom and head back to the ballroom the king embraced his Queen before she left.” I will have to admit that this is the first of the best Christmases ever put together my love.”  he replied. “ I look forward to a whole lifetime of more to come to watching our children grow up happy and healthy to being together and finally living in peace here so much I want to do.   you have a very thoughtful look on your face my queen is there something on your mind?”

“ I got some test results back from dr. Ramirez the other day.”  the queen announced. “ I did not want to say anything and get your hopes up until I knew for sure but now that I do…”

“ oh my goodness Queen Reimeiko what is it?” King Karyson asked. “ please do not leave me on tenterhooks what is going on?”

“ it seems that Rhiannon and the twins are going to be having a sibling or two soon.” Reimeiko replied.

“ wait, what? seriously baby?” Karyson asked. “ this is beyond any shadow of a doubt the best news all day and one of the best Christmas gifts ever.   oh now we had to make this big announcement and now.”

“ we will in due time but for now let us just enjoy the peace and quiet of the celebration and not worry about telling everybody else any more than what we already have.”  the queen replied. “ I definitely do not want a repeat every Rhiannon and the twins first year”

“ oh good point my love.”  King replied. “ now come on we have a celebration to enjoy.”

 the Cordonian King and his Queen return to join the others in the big Christmas celebration relieved to have made it through their first two years despite all the shortcomings trials and tribulations they have had to face from the beginning.  as she watched her husband her family and her friends celebrate the Christmas holidays, Reimeiko  knew  that no matter what the future held, they would always face everything together as a family as a unit as a very strong compassionate loving and caring Kingdom.

The End

[knightthunderis]

This is so sweet and funny too I loved it.

The Christmas Gift of Writing

This one shot goes out to @knightthunderis​ for her Christmas request. Hope you enjoy.

Tagging those in the Christmas Gift of Writting @texaskitten30​ @kingliam2019​ @twinkleallnight​ @iaminlovewithtrr​ @anjanettexcordonia @kat-tia801​ @eadanga​ @xxrainbow-princessxx​

These characters belong to Pixelberry

Liam- (Karyson) Riley (Reimeiko) 

*****************

   It was Christmas Eve at the palace and chaos was forming everywhere. Reimeiko had invited her best friend Daniel from New York to help decorate the palace, but he and Maxwell were far from getting along. “No! This should go here!” Daniel screamed as he told the movers to place the tree in the far corner of the room.

“Dude! I have spent many Christmas’s at the palace and the tree needs to on this side of the room.” Maxwell yelled. 

As the two men began arguing Karyson walked up to Reimeiko and said, “I have an idea. Let’s take our daughter, Rhiannon and Bartie to the other room and read them a story.”

“Fine with me, at this point I regret inviting Daniel. I have forgotten how demanding and one way minded he can be.” Reimeiko replied.

They took the children into the other room where they began reading them the story Twas the Night Before Christmas. Karyson brought the children some milk and chocolate chip cookies. Reimeiko began reading while Karyson stood behind her acting out the story making the kids laugh. 

“The children were nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of sugar plums danced in their heads” Reimiko said as she seen Hana and Drake walk into the room. 

“What are you reading?” Hana asked.

“Twas the Night Before Christmas, have you never heard it before?” Reimeiko asked.

“No, I can’t say I have.” Hana replied.

“Well, sit down and listen, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.” Drake said as he took a seat next to Bartie.

“Now Dasher! Now Dancer, Now, Prancer and Vixen!” Reimeiko shouted as she now noticed Savannah and Bertrand listening in from the doorway. 

All of a sudden two little boys ran into the room and each took a cookie off the platter. They began to run back into the room when they suddenly heard, “Not so fast boys, if want those cookies you will sit and listen to the story” Leo said snapping his fingers for his twin boys to pop a squat on the floor. 

“He was dressed all in fur, from his hat to his foot, and his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.” Reimeiko said, now noticing Maxwell and Daniel were both sitting on the floor listening. “Well my goodness, look who decided to stop arguing.” She chuckled.

“It’s Christmas, and I really don’t want Santa bringing me a lump of coal in my stocking.” Maxwell said, while winking at Reimiko.

“Yeah, sorry about all of the chaos. Maxwell and I will be much more behaved.” Daniel replied. 

“Good.” Karyson said.

As Reimiko finished the story she said “Happy Christmas to all, and too all a good night.” She said noticing that her daughter and Bartie had both fallen asleep in Drake and Hana’s laps.

“Well lets get these kiddos onto bed, after all Santa does come tonight.” Karyson said he took his his daughter upstairs to bed. 

[knightthunderis]

Chapter 13 Hidden Masquerade

“It is nice to see you too Erin Llewellyn.” Reimeiko smirked. “Does your family know that you are here in Taboria in a five star palace serving your highest rated dishes? I am with Derrick here and we were just passing through to catch the first dance.”

“Oh Ja--uh Reimeiko, you are with Derrick?” Erin asked. “Carry on then just make sure that rogue keeps his hands off of my fig and olive tapenade?”

“Tapen what?” Derrick asked. “Uh that is not going to be a problem for me to do.” Just then, a servant carrying a large silver platter rushed out from the preparation station without looking but Reimeiko spotted a slick spot of water just in front of her.

“Hey look out!” Reimeiko shouted. The young server slipped but using her incredible speed, Reimeiko caught the server by the arm with one hand and steadied the tray with the other. She saw the name on her tag was Serah.

“Whoa, thank you.” Serah said. “You seriously saved my life.  You are the first noble I have seen to ever step in to help a servant.  How did you do that so fast? You were amazing.”

“Let us just say I have averted my share of waitressing disasters before.” Reimeiko replied. “It looks like you got a little something on your uniform.  Here,let me help you.” She moved to the sink and moistened a clean rag with water, then sprinkled it with a dash of salt.  Using a circular motion, she quickly removed the stain from her uniform.

“Wow, it is as good as new, thank you.” Serah gushed. She took the tray and scurried quickly away from the kitchen and back to the ballroom.

“It looks like the sink splashed some water on you and your dress.” Derrick teased. “And I did not expect you to come to that servant’s rescue the way that you did.”

“The water will dry in a minute and no one will even know that it has been there.” Reimeiko said. “And as far as the servant goes, it was just a little stain, it was no big deal.”

“If that servant had nearly bumped into anyone else in that ballroom,” Derrick said. “She would have been getting yelled at or fired or even both. Most likely both.  Most of the so-called people out there care more about their fancy clothes and social standing than the actual people out there serving them.”

“Well I do not share that mindset.” Reimeiko snarled. “Without the people who serve them, those air-headed nobles would have to fend for themselves.  And other than the obvious, you are not even dressed for a masquerade.”

“What is that supposed to mean?” Derrick demanded. “I do not usually go in for these sorts of things. I know I do not have to be.  But it is not about me, it is about Karyson.”

“So you are looking out for him, that is super sweet.” she said. “It was just as I thought.  You are not as tough of a nut to crack after all.”

“There is no need to get all whatever it is about it.” he said. “Now come on, let us get you the dance I promised you.”  Reimeiko followed Derrick to a small servants entrance at the back of the kitchen and looked through the small window out into the ballroom behind Karyson and King Cecil. “Step right through here and you will skip the whole line of girls hoping to dance with Karyson.  He always would have chosen you for this if given the chance, and now he will have one.”

“Before I go, answer me something.” she said. “Why are you helping me, I mean really?  Half the time you are telling me I do not belong here and that I will not last and now this.”

“Maybe half the time I am hoping that I am wrong.” Derrick said. He gave her a half smile before the door closed between them.  She walked confidently over to where Karyson was standing.

“Well hello, you will have to forgive me, but I do not think we have met before now.” Karyson said. “I know of all of the women who are here for me, but you my lady have me at a disadvantage.”

“We have actually met twice before.” Reimeiko replied. “It has not even been twenty-four hours since we saw each other and the meeting before was with the beautiful Lady Liberty.”

“Now you truly have me at a disadvantage.” he said. “Your presence is baffling to me.  I cannot stop my mind from racing.  Is she a high ranking aristocrat from a distant country?  Or a wealthy woman of the world?  So who are you?  What brings you here?”

“You brought me here, Kary.” Reimeiko replied. “And you will be even more surprised when you finally figure out the truth.  No guesses yet?  Even with the mention of Lady Liberty?”

Karyson stared at her hard for a moment meeting her eyes and his finally widening in recognition. “Reimeiko? Oh of course. I thought I would never see you again.  So we do meet again.” The music began and grew louder. Around the room couples began to pair up and take to the dance floor. “It seems that you are just in time tonight, the first dance is beginning.  Would you do me the honor?” He held out his hand to her.

“I would love to.” she replied,taking his offered hand.  He swept her into his arms and onto the dancefloor where the ladies of court looked on with surprise and jealousy.  Behind them, she saw Malachi pump his fist in the air excitedly. “For you, I would not have missed this.”

“I am glad that you made it to the ball.” Karyson said. “After last night I was tempted to believe that seeing you was just a dream, but here you are in the flesh.” As the music shifted, Karyson gracefully spun Reimeiko out of his embrace.  Using his hand for support, she dipped back elegantly only to return to form and twirl back into his arms effortlessly.  Quiet gasps escape from the others across the ballroom.  Karyson gracefully drew her against him once again.  Without warning, her lightning strike hit, warning her of danger and the feeling that someone very sinister was watching her, quietly plotting against her and her family.  She looked around, looking for the source of foreboding, but did not see anyone paying too close of attention.  But she still could not shake the uneasiness she felt as she and Karyson danced.  Sure enough, hidden in the shadows, two figures stood somewhat hidden from sight.  One wearing a sweater vest, tie and blazer, the other wearing a dark turtleneck and blazer.

“What are you doing here?” SweaterVest hissed. “There is no way we will be able to take the kingdom if our plan is discovered too soon.  And you are looking highly suspicious.”

“You are a fine one to talk.” TurtleNeck sneered. “If Cecil discovers that you are alive and still working to take the throne, he would have you decapitated before you knew what had hit you and I would be taken down with you because I would be considered an accessory after the fact.  Not to mention the fact that you are putting my daughter in the line of fire.  She gets to be Queen and you are planning to rip it, Garyson, and the kingdom away from her just so you can be king.”

“Have you forgotten that you are in this as deep as me,” SweaterVest implied. “Moreso infact since it was you that poisoned and killed Queen Coradae.  If they ever find that goblet, which they have not yet, you are the one who gifted the goblet to Coradae in the first place so your fingerprints are all over it.  So if this comes down to any kind of case, you would be the one tried, convicted, and sentenced with her death not me.  You would be the one who would either end up with life in prison or the death penalty which you know is still in affect here.” 

“I could come completely clean with Cecil about my part in it as well as helping them put you out of commission without so much as a second thought.” TurtleNeck declared “I could cut a deal and beg for mercy. Besides, you purchased the poison and the goblet,you put the poison in the goblet and you said both she and Cecil would drink from it. It was supposed to take out two birds with one stone you said, but it did not.”

“No, you are right, it did not work out entirely as I planned.” SweaterVest said. “But after that last meeting at my house, I was going to call on the Great Houses to cast a vote of no confidence, not only in Cecil’s ability to rule, but also his ability to raise his sons.  I thought I would have had you along with to vote for me, but no, you ran off back to England to hide like the coward you are.”

“Well I will do whatever it takes to keep from going down with you, even if it means as those nasty Americans say throwing you under the bus or throwing you to the wolves.” TurtleNeck sneered. “I am not risking what remains of my holdings and life to back you up anymore.  You nearly got us caught when you recruited those barbaric Loreans. Now leave me alone.”

“I will forewarn you ahead of time.” SweaterVest sneered. “If you so much as breathe one word about me, I will have you and your family raked over the coals for breakfast. I have enough evidence to ruin you and destroy your family in the process.”

“You do not scare me.” TurtleNeck seethed. “I come from the largest crime family in the world. One word from me and my brother will have every one of his guards all over you like a cheap suit.”

“You brother and his associates were caught and arrested in their dive bar in the United States by the combined efforts of Knight Thunder, her Knights, and the I.C.E.” SweaterVest cackled. “Now you will do what I say or you will join them.  And if you ever go against me again, forget the cell, I will put you ten feet under.”

TurtleNeck watched as SweaterVest walked away with his head held high for having got the upper hand.  Smugly, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a mini tape recorder and pressed the stop button.

“As always you underestimate me old friend.” TurtleNeck said. “I always have several aces up my sleeves when dealing with people like you.”  Seething, he turned his attention back to watch the Prince and the young stranger being sponsored by the Blanchards.  Something about her seemed familiar, like he had seen her somewhere before, but he could not put his finger on it.  He pulled out his phone and dialed a number. “You know who this is Lasider, and I have got a job for you and your particular talents.”

“I will do what I can and as always you will get my prompt well done service.” Lasider replied. “Who is it that you want me to torture and kill Your Grace?”

“No, not torture and kill- well at least not yet.” TurtleNeck said. “I need you to do some character digging on someone and I will pay you twice your usual fee for it.”

“It sounds very interesting as well as very high profile considering the seriousness of the tone in your voice.” Lasider replied. “I am in, what or who is the target in question?”

[knightthunderis]

Another place I am putting my stuff

[knightthunderis]

Ch 12 Introductions

“I am going to hide in plain sight, but I am going to be honest about who I am.” she replied. “My full scenario is Reimeiko Christyne Amaryllis Thunderis, Princess of Galaxia.”

“Well it is not very classic but I guess it will do.” Malachi replied. The doors to the grand ballroom were thrown open and she made her grand entrance.  The herald announced Malachi, then turned to acknowledge Reimeiko.

“Reimeiko Christyne Amaryllis Thunderis of Galaxia.” the herald said. She walked on into the ballroom.  Once farther inside, Malachi turned to speak with her.

“I have got to go speak with Byron for a second.” he said. “You will be alright on your own.  Just get out there and mingle with everyone.”

“Mingle, right.  I can do that.” Reimeiko replied suddenly uneasy. She looked around the room for someone to speak to when an unfamiliar person caught her by the arm and turned Reimeiko to face them. She instantly recognised her from the debriefing. 

“Forgive me for being forward, but I have never seen you here before.” Lamani announced. “I always notice when a new name is announced by the heralds. I make a point to know all the ladies of court. I am Lamani Aileen Evander, Duchess of Lorea.  Reimeiko Thunderis of Galaxia, that title does not say a lot.” 

“Actually, my dad’s family hails from Thunderia and my mother’s family hails from Thenoria.” Reimeiko replied. “My family is one of the oldest royal families in the Universal Alliance.”

“Well seeing as you are new to this court let me give you some advice.” Lamani said. “When you are presented to King Cecil, you should kiss his shoe.  It is a Taborian custom to show deep respect and reverence to the monarchy. You are so lucky I was here to warn you, otherwise you would look so ridiculous.”

“Really? Thanks.” Reimeiko said. “If you will excuse me, there is someone I was hoping to speak to.”

New entry for the journal: Lamani Evander of Lorea is definitely a venomous snake to look out for.  I was not new to the customs of court and I was not about to follow her advice.  No wonder this place did not feel right or feel the way I had remembered.  This was not the kingdom of Thaddea, this was the kingdom of Taboria, Deon and Ceres’s home, or as I knew them now, Samuel and Francine Walters also known as Knight Mirage and Knight Libra. I did not understand any of this, if Deon or Samuel abdicated, according to the Galaxian line of succession the role would fall to Ceres or Francine or Garyson the son of Cecil and Coradae who was born a few days after Seidre delivered Karyson, Racine, and Korydon while visiting her twin sister and brother in law.  Despite the fact they are cousins, Garyson could pass for their twin and vise versa.  Tristan’s crew knew who they were looking for, but getting Garyson here to take over before the end of the season was not going to be easy, but I learned through the grapevine that Garyson knew who was involved and where they fit in:

“We are already a mile ahead of you, Your Highness.” Marco said. “We are looking into tracking down Samuel, Francine, and Garyson right now.” Looking across the ballroom, she spotted Elenia standing with the other noble ladies.

“Hello again. I am glad to see that you made it. “Elenia said. “So this is the Taborian Masquerade.  What do you really think of it.”

“This masquerade here in Taboria is very wonderful although it is a little overwhelming.” Reimeiko replied. “To be honest, I do not see why Taboria is hosting the Social Season for the Thaddean prince instead of their own line of royalty?”

“The present crown prince Garyson Walters is the true heir to the Taborian throne.” Alondra Thorne said. “At the end of the Social Season Prince Garyson will choose his bride.”

“The only problem is Karyson is the heir to Thaddea not Taboria.” Taryn Wyatt insisted in Thunderian. “Are these nobles so stupid that they do not see that Karyson Wolfe is the heir to Thaddea not Taboria?”

“I think because of the resemblance between the cousins,” Reimeiko replied. “They think that Karyson is Garyson, at least until the truth gets revealed.”

“I can tell that you are going to enjoy yourself here.” Elenia said. “To be honest, it is very refreshing to be around someone so excited.  Fancy galas are just second nature to me.  When you have gone to as many as I have they can lose their charm. Unless of course, you find the right companions in Court.” She was about to say more when someone caught her eye from across the room. “Please excuse me, there is someone that I need to greet, but maybe we can talk later?” She walked away leaving Reimeiko and Taryn behind.

“I do not like the feel of this, Your Highness.” Taryn hissed. “How can they confuse a Thaddean Prince with a Taborian?  It just does not make any sense.”

“I know you are right.” Reimeiko replied. “It does not make any sense, but we will get to the bottom of this and Karyson and I will be reunited once Tristan and Knight Wolf reconnect with him.” Reimeiko saw Derrick right within eyesight and earshot across the room. He nodded and gave her and Taryn a stiff bow as they approached him.

“Good evening my Ladies.” Derrick announced bowing stiffly to them not knowing right away who they were.

“Well would you look at that, Taryn.” Reimeiko smirked. “He does have manners after all.  I guess that is one bet you have won against all odds.”

“Thunderis? Is that you?” Derrick asked. “I did not even recognise you. You caught me off-guard.  I was not expecting you to blend in so well or look like you actually belong here.”

“You were right, Reimeiko.” Taryn acknowledged. “Karyson’s guard dog has a serious bite to him to put his bark to shame.  I thought Malachi was the one with the one with the bark and bite.”

“Nope, Derrick is the one with the bark and bite a lot like his dad did years ago.” Reimeiko replied. “There are still some missing from Karyson’s entourage, but I think they will resurface as the time will continue.”

“Well looking the part does not mean you are going to be welcome here you know.” Derrick smirked. “Looking the part and really being the part are two very different things.”

“Apparently, he has not met the real Princess Reimeiko Thunderis.” Taryn replied. “You are the Queen of the Universal Alliance, Karyson’s wife and real true love.”

“He does not and is not aware of that.” Reimeiko said in Thunderian. “He and everyone here believes he is the heir to Taboria and not Thaddea. I do not even know if they know that bigamy is against the law in the Universal Alliance.”

Reverting back to english, Taryn reported to her. “I need to check in with my dad and let him know what we have found out so far.” Taryn said. “We will get to the bottom of this mystery and get everything back to normal. Excuse me.”

“Derrick Werner, did you just call me Thunderis a few minutes ago?” Reimeiko demanded. He nodded sheepishly. “I love it. Is this like our thing now? Are we really bonding here?”

“Yeah I guess that I did.” he said. “That is your name is it not? But bonding is not exactly how I meant it. I mean bonding with others is not my strong suit.”

“Too late.” she said beaming. “We will be best friends before you know it and for someone who is so jaded, you sure like pretending you know more about this place than anyone else.”

“Who says that I am pretending?” he demanded. “I actually grew up here. I know somethings about this place that others around here do not and plenty that would be helpful and for you.”

“Yeah I am sure you could know anything that might be helpful to me.” Reimeiko scoffed. “You think I do not have what it takes to be here like the rest of your better than everyone else, nobles and royals. I do not deserve to be with my true love and have my happy ever after. Well for your information, I have been to the future, I know who the true Queen is and it is not any of them around here.”

“Maybe I know how Garyson feels about you.” Derrick offered. “Or how you can get the first dance with him instead of waiting in some stupid receiving line of ladies.”

“Information on how he really feels and the first dance?” Reimeiko demanded. “You really know how he feels about me and can really get me the first dance with him really? You can make that happen?”

“I do, but I usually play favorites with the women around here.” Derrick replied. “Why in the world should I stick my neck out to help you?”

“Seriously?” Reimeiko snapped. “You know what, forget it! I do not need you to play favorites.  I am not any of these ladies around here. Two, you have been a serious jerk to me so far and three, you owe me one, Buster!”

“A jerk?  I have not- I mean oh shoot I have, have I not?” Derrick replied. “I am sorry, Thunderis.  I am not the easiest person to get close to or get to know.”

“Do not sound so surprised.” she replied. “Wait, let me guess, you had already made up your mind about me that first night we met.”

“Honestly, yeah maybe a little.” he said sheepishly. “My read on you is that you are fun, adventurous, I guess I am going to have to start calling you fearless, too, although, I am not sure you should be around here. I have not seen Karyson light up the way he did when he was with you in America since maybe forever.” 

“It sounds like Karyson feels the same way I do around him or you know a spark when you feel one.” Reimeiko smirked. “You cannot give a woman so many compliments and expect her not to notice.”

“I do know a spark when I see one, Thunderis.” he replied. “And we were talking about you and Karyson here remember, your future together.”

“If you say so.” Reimeiko replied. “Now, I believe there was talk of making sure I had the first dance with him tonight. How do you plan to pull that magic trick off?”

“The same way I know how Karyson feels about you.” Derrick said. “By seeing things around here that the others do not. Now come on, we are getting out of here. I told you that you would have to trust me did I not?”

Derrick turned and walked toward the hallway bidding Reimeiko to follow him with the curl of his hand.  He led her down a long corridor before opening a wide metal door to the palace kitchen.

“You took me to the kitchen?” Reimeiko asked. “If you had wanted a meal with me you could have just asked.  I never know what to expect from you. I like this side of you.”

“If you want predictable you can go back and hang out with the nobles.” Derrick said. The chef noticed Reimeiko with Derrick from across the room.

“Hey lady what are you doing back here.” the chef demanded. “This area is off limits to outsiders and high class snobby socialites.”  Reimeiko just chuckled at her sister in law’s retort.

[knightthunderis]

Ch 11 Reimeiko’s History

“Wait, Thunderis, I am sorry.” Derrick said. “I did not mean to bump you in with all the other ladies around this country.  I know that you are nothing like them.  You actually care about other people whereas the nobles and royals here care only for themselves.  I truly did not mean to make you angry.  In anycase, if you want to last around here, you had better be ready for tomorrow with all the bowing and curtseying.  There are rules for everything around here you know.”

“Believe me, I know the royal rules of protocol.” Reimeiko said. “I am not about to let a bunch of stuck up nobles come between me and my future with my soulmate.  I have seen the future and the queen by Karyson’s side is me and no one else.”

“You know the other ladies vying for Garyson have been training for it all their lives.” Derrick replied. “They will do whatever it takes to make sure they take the lead in all things.”

“Well I can let you in on all the advantages I have that none of them do.” Reimeiko said. “I was not only raised and trained in royal protocol and how to be a wife and mother by my mother, but I was also trained in the art of warfare by my dad and his team of fighters.  I can harness the powers and elements of my home, and Karyson and I were connected together years ago so none of the others have a chance with him because we are bound to each other eternally.”

“Oh wow seriously?” he asked. “I did not think that you were that Reimeiko Thunderis.  She and Karyson were married centuries ago.  They cannot be alive today.  There is no way unless-” Reimeiko lit up with her brows raised.

“My full name by royal standards is Reimeiko Christyne Amaryllis Thunderis Wolfe.” Reimeiko said. “I am the eldest daughter of Thor and Kyiandra Kinsworthy Thunderis, the king and queen of Thunderia and the Universal Alliance.”

“Oh wow, you look pretty darn good for someone who is over three thousand years old.” Derrick replied. “No, it is impossible for you two to be the Reimeiko and Karyson of the past. They lived centuries ago.”

“We are immortal, Derrick.” Reimeiko explained. “We may move from one timeline to another but we are all eternal.  I am Knight Thunder of Thunderia able to harness the powers and the elements of my kingdom and Karyson is able to do the same thing as Knight Wolf.  Watch, I will prove to you who I am.” She drew her swords that were hidden behind her and crossed them above her head. “By the power of Galaxia! Thunderian Thorstar Universal Ultimate Galactic Knight Power!” The lightning swirled around her body followed by the gold light of change.  Reimeiko Thunderis was transformed into Knight Thunder, much to Derrick’s wide surprise. “Usually, because my fellow Knights and I have reached our ultimate level, we do not have to use our weapons to transform into our Knight forms.  All we have to do is think and the hero form appears on us.”

“Wow, I am seeing it but I am still not completely believing it.” Derrick announced. “It is just so unreal.  If Karyson is one of you, how come he has never displayed this kind of power.”

“All we know is that somewhere between our last battle and the meeting at Russo’s Karyson was separated from his human and hero personalities Tristan Michael Llewellyn and Knight Wolf.” Reimeiko explained. 

“But if Karyson has a human form that is different from him as well as Knight Wolf, that also means you have a different human form as well.” Derrick interjected.

“I am known as Jamison Logan McKagan Llewellyn by human standards.” Reimeiko explained. “Tristan, Karyson’s human form is my husband as Karyson is Reimeiko’s.  Besides my siblings, Aaron and Keilyn and our fellow Knights as well as Karyson’s siblings you are the only one who knows about this.”

“I see. Now we had better go.” Derrick insisted. “I do not want to get you into trouble being out after curfew.”

“Trouble? Why would you get me into trouble?” she asked. “I can handle trouble. I am Knight Thunder after all.”

“Maybe you can,” he said. “But you are still new here.  I do not want to get you into any kind of mess on my account.  It is not like it is in normal life where you can just be yourself and do what you want.  Here there is always going to be someone waiting for some gossip to spread about you and use against you.  I know what this place looks like but do not let it fool you.  Most people do not get happily ever after around here.  Come on.”

Reimeiko followed Derrick from the roof after reverting back to herself, while still holding the Knight Thunder persona, back to the tree, and down. As they got closer to the ground, the branches became more sparse.  Derrick dropped out of the tree to the ground, then held out his hand to Reimeiko. He pulled her down and for a brief moment, held her in his arms before he set her on the ground.

“Hey Derrick, I just wanted to say, you are extremely cute when you are flustered.” she smirked. “I remember that was a way to perk you up when you gained the interest of that special someone.”

Derrick laughed and looked away blushing, looking like he was about to say something, but then he thought better of it. “You are real trouble, I think Thunderis.”

“I guess it depends on how you look at it Derrick.” she giggled. “Good night Mr. Werner.”

She left behind a speechless Derrick and headed back to her room hopeful that she would fall asleep fairly quickly.  Samson, one of her guardians, was there waiting for her perched on the desk near the bed in owl form.  When he was sure it was only his mistress, he reverted to cat form jumping over onto the bed.

“Jaira and I completed our circuit of the country, Your Highness.” Samson said. “And nothing is as any of us remember it.  Something is seriously not right.”

“This is not the Thaddea the rest of the Guardians and Knights remember.” Jaira added. “The present king and queen is named Cecil and Alyssa Walters.  Word around the palace is that they are ruling Taboria and Karyson and Samuel Walters are brothers.”

“Samuel’s only siblings are his twin sister Francine, uh I mean Ceres.” Reimeiko replied. “And his half brother Garyson Walters.  We have to get to the bottom of this before Cecil gets Karyson tied up in bigamy and casts him from everything that matters.”

Samson and Jaira left the room so that Reimeiko could change clothes and go to bed, hopeful she would fall asleep quickly. The next morning Byron and Malachi arrived going through the outfits that Reimeiko had brought with her.

“No, not this one.” Byron said. “Not this one, too casual, too American, too stretchy.  What we are looking for is the perfect look for your debut for the Masquerade tonight.  The first event of the Social Season is tonight, the masquerade.”

“It is the ball where all of the suitors will be presented formally to Prince Garyson as well as the king.” Malachi added. “While not everyone everyone wears a costume or a mask, you can be sure the ladies competing for Garyson’s attention will be pulling out all of the stops to make sure they are all he sees.”

“I suppose it is too much to ask if you even packed a costume appropriate for a black tie affair?” Byron asked, looking disdainfully at the rest of the clothes in her suitcase.  He let out a long suffering sigh and pinched the bridge of his nose.

“Well we were not sure so we made you an appointment at the palace boutique.” Malachi said. “Maybe you will find something there that you like better.  And remember tonight is very important.  You could end up getting to dance with Garyson and it is your chance to make a first impression on all of the influential people and to stand apart from everyone else there.”

“Do not worry fellows, I have got this.” Reimeiko announced. She grabbed her adventure bag and left her room to go to the palace boutique.  Just to be on the safe side, she had Knight Thunder in full power.  This was not the Thaddea she knew or remembered.  She stepped into the boutique and saw one of the suitors in her underwear looking through the various costumes. “Oh I am sorry, I did not realize that someone was already in here.”

“It is no problem.” she said. “To be honest, I did not have an appointment.  I am Elenia Zhang.  I suppose you are also here to prepare for the Masquerade tonight as well?”

“I am Reimeiko Thunderis; and yes, I am here to prepare for this hide and seek parade too.” Reimeiko said giggling. “This is quite the flash and flare event just to try and win the hand of one of the Walters boys.”

“She is the multi-talented suitor from Thaddea.” Tristan said through the earpiece Reimeiko wore. “Elenia is the one you should try and make friends with the most.  The other suitors are serious backbiters including Melinda Edwards so watch yourself.”

“Since you are here and not already dressed,” Elenia said. “I must assume that you are like me and searching for something to wear.  The seamstress seems to be running late, but I can show you around. This boutique has the most exquisite gowns.  Let me just slip my dress on.” She pulled on the dress she was holding but struggled to get the zipper up. Reimeiko helped her with no hesitation.  Elenia donned a matching mask and settled it on her face before turning back around to face Reimeiko grinning at her. “Thank you, not many people here are nice like you.” She twirled around her full skirts twirling out. “Now what about you?  One must have a mask for the masquerade.  Have you seen the angel costume?  You would look amazing in white.”

“I will take a look.” Reimeiko said. She slipped into the changing room with the dress, Silver Sensation and with a snap of her fingers was wearing her version of it and her glasses transformed into a matching mask.  The outfit for Princess Reimeiko was just what she needed to help trigger Karyson’s true memory of his connection with Reimeiko and reunite them. “So how do I look?”

“Oh wow, you look absolutely amazing.” Elenia gushed. The two of them left the boutique then Reimeiko met Malachi at the bottom of the grand staircase just outside the ballroom.

“You look sensational, Reimeiko.” Malachi said. “One thing I should mention, as soon as you enter the ballroom, tell the herald your name and title so that you can be announced.  Since you are working undercover, you do not have a title, but since my family is “Sponsoring” you, then you could technically be considered a lady.”

[knightthunderis]

Chapters: 8/? Fandom: Choices The Royal Romance/Heir, The Royal Romance (Visual Novel) Rating: Mature Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Dating - Relationship, Liam/Main Character (The Royal Romance) Characters: Main Character (The Royal Romance) Summary:

A case of mistaken identity leads Jamison Llewellyn also known as Reimeiko Thunderis and her band of Knights to the kingdom of Taboria to uncover a conspiracy and reunite the personality of Karyson Wolfe with his human and hero counterparts before he is tied up in the middle of it all. There is tons of lies, deceit, conspiracy, treason, black mail, tyrants, action, adventure and romance.

[knightthunderis]

This was totally sweet

A Woman Like Her

Happy birthday, @debramcg1106!! Ok first I need to say this:

(I’ve been trying to send that to you in an ask for like 2 weeks now, but I cannot for the life of me figure out how people add gifs to asks, so I decided to save it for this, lol.)

Ok, real talk! Deb, you are one of the most amazing and supportive people I’ve ever come across here. You are kind, you’re funny, and just one of the nicest, sweetest people I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with and calling a friend. I fell in love with your Forever series and was just so in awe of how you wrote that story (seriously people, if you haven’t read it, do it) And then you were there to talk me through my first fic that was out of my element and I honestly couldn’t have done that without that support and encouragement you gave me.

So I decided to write our favorite throuple for your birthday. We know I’m not one to fluff much of anything … I sprinkle it here and there, but fluff and I do not mix, but I couldn’t write you sad or angsty for your birthday. I won’t lie and say I’m not cringing at this fic (ask Burns and Robin) and I hope it’s not so cheesy that you hate it, lol.

I lovvvveeee you and I hope that your birthday was as amazing as you are! 💕

A/N: This is from my Unexpected AU. Huge thanks to @dcbbw and @burnsoslow for prereading! The song in the fic is this (I just tweaked some of the words, and thank you Burnsy for writing the lyrics i couldn’t figure out!)

Keep reading

[knightthunderis]

Ch 10 Time and Tide

“Jamison, what is going on?” Pepper asked. “Why are there women competing for the man Reimeiko Thunderis is already married to and ruling a kingdom with.”

“I wish I knew Pepper.” Reimeiko replied, “All I know is that somewhere between our last battle and the present, Karyson was separated from Tristan and Knight Wolf and does not have his memories of his life with Reimeiko and we have got to get them back somehow.”

“Well, my crew and I will help you solve this mystery anyway we can.” Pepper said. “Anything you need, do not hesitate to call.  We will be right within earshot and I will get you all the information you need on the rest of the players.”

“Thanks Pepper, I will keep you posted on that.” Reimeiko said. She hung up with Pepper and went back to her Journal: Maybe performing a telepathic link is what I need to do to start the ball rolling.  But no matter what happens, I am not going to let anyone or anything come between Karyson and Reimeiko.  I am wide awake and restless.  How can I sleep when Reimeiko’s whole life is seriously changing?  I need to take a walk.  I will write more later:  I got up and found myself walking the palace halls in the moonlight thinking about Reimeiko and what would happen if things did not work out between her and Karyson.  Oddly enough, just the thought of them not being together felt like a serious stab to my heart.  I felt the same way when Tristan separated himself from me, but it was not because he did not love me or did not want to be with me.  Tristan broke up with and separated himself from me to apparently save my life, but come to find out, it was his future self, Karyson’s future self that sent those nightmares to test us and the strength of our love for eachother.  It was only by combining the power of our love that we were able to destroy the evil that threatened to destroy us.  But after the last battle, Tristan and I promised eachother to face each new challenge together no matter what.  Now we had to face that same promise again with Reimeiko and Karyson.  I was so consumed in my thoughts, I was not watching where I was going and bumped into Derrick.

“Whoa Thunderis becareful.” Derrick said. “What are you doing out here so late?  You should be getting your sleep like the rest of them for the Masquerade and the events of tomorrow.”

“I am feeling too anxious to sleep.” Reimeiko replied. “I just have a lot on my mind and my body will not let me sleep at all.  What about you?  What are you doing out here so late at night instead of sleeping?”

“I was just trying to get away from everyone as well as the flash and flare for a little while.” he said. “You know what, why do you not come with me for a little while?”

She followed Derrick as he led her through the palace, eventually to the courtyard where he pointed to a tree. “Do you want me to admire the tree or climb it with you?” Reimeiko asked. 

“We are going to climb it.” Derrick replied. “The special thing about this particular tree is that it is very close to the palace.  So close that from the top we can make it to the roof.  Trust me this will be worth it.”

Reimeiko followed him up the tree and after a few minutes of climbing, they made it upto the roof of the palace and the view of Wolfera. “Oh wow, this is absolutely gorgeous.” Reimeiko gushed.

“I am glad that you like it.” Derrick replied. “Anyway, I am going to hang out here for a while.  You are welcome to stick around if you want to and keep me company.  That balcony across the roof is Karyson’s room and actually, you can get there from here if you want to surprise him.”

“Yes, I think I will surprise him.” Reimeiko said.  She shimmied her way across the roof where Karyson’s room was. “Okay, there is nothing to it.  I have just got to get down to his window safely.” Elegantly, she swung through Karyson’s open window and landed very gracefully. “Yes, made it safely.  Surprise, I had to see you.”

“Reimeiko, I do not understand.” he said. “What are you doing here?” He ran over and wrapped her up in a big hug. “I thought that I would never see you again.”

“Malachi and Byron Blanchard are sponsoring me.” Reimeiko replied. “He brought me here to join the other suitors in the competition for Garyson. Malachi seems to like me.  I am not so sure about Byron though.”

“House Blanchard is sponsoring you?” Karyson asked. “I knew they would likely sponsor someone but I have never heard of a noble house sponsoring a commoner.”

Reimeiko bristled at the mention of the word commoner, furious that the nobles and royals threw it around like a vulgar word.

“Honestly, Malachi saw our obvious chemistry and how happy he saw you because we were together.” Reimeiko said. “And before you say anything, no one asked you to be subtle.” 

“Wait, all of that explains what you are doing here in Dovera.” Karyson replied. “But it does not explain how you landed in my chambers.  You might have noticed the other noble ladies are not exactly here for a receiving and greeting line.”

“I am not the rest of the noble ladies.” Reimeiko replied. “I will take every advantage to be reunited with my Karyson and shove out every snob who tries to come between us.  I suppose not many of the so-called women show up in your chambers unannounced.”

“Definitely and certainly not by coming through my window.” he chuckled. “Now tell me, how is it that you are here with me right now in this room Reia Mia?”

“I could not say away.” Reimeiko replied. “I want you so badly, it hurts Kary.  I could not sleep knowing that we were under the same roof, knowing how much I wanted to be here right next to you.” She leaned in and pressed her lips to his in a slow and lingering kiss, flashes of the memories of the past beginning to resurface of his true connection to his lady love.

“You tempt me, my Princess.” he announced. Karyson took her into his arms leaning her against the wall pressing his lips to hers, softly at first, then deeper.  Then he dragged himself away from her, his eyes regarding her thoughtfully. “Most people here, I know what they are going to do, say, and what they want and how they intend to get it.  But you Reia Mia, whenever you are around, unexpected things seem to happen.  You have a way of surprising me everytime.”

“Karyson, you are about to learn, but you have always known that I am full of surprises.  But so are you my Knight Wolf.” Without thinking twice, she kissed him again sending more flashes of memories of them together into his cerebral cortex.  Reluctantly he broke off the kiss and met her eyes.

“I cannot wait to learn more about you, my Reimeiko.” he replied. “But I am afraid that it will have to wait for another time.  It is too dangerous for you to be here.  I mean courtly gossip and rumors.  If you are truly representing the Blanchard family, you will soon find the eyes of the court and nobles watching you waiting for you to make a mistake, waiting for a reason to cause a scandal and I would hate to make your time here more difficult.  So as much as it pains me and believe me it does pain me Reimeiko, you should go for now.”

“But will I see you again?” Reimeiko asked, fighting the tears. He could tell it was hunting her to leave him, but his soft touch strengthened her letting her know they would be together again soon.  She kissed him one more time, strengthening their connection even more.  She left Karyson’s room and slipped back on to the roof where Derrick was sitting and contemplating.  She sat down next to him. “Do you mind having some company?”

“Of course not.” he said. “I would not have brought you up here if I did.  This is my favorite spot in the entire palace.  Just me and the stars.” He leaned back on his elbows and Reimeiko copied him enjoying the view. “So did you wish Karyson a beautiful good night?”

“Yeah, something like that.” Reimeiko sighed. But even with Karyson’s soothing reassurance, the tightness in Reimeiko’s chest would ease up a great deal but would not go away too completely. “This is quite a breathtaking view. And very beautiful as well.”

“No one else knows about it so no one else comes up here.” Derrick announced. “Well no one besides you knows about it because it is so isolated up here.  A place to get away from the craziness.”

“So that is why you brought me up here?” Reimeiko asked. “Are you not afraid or worried I will ruin your hiding spot?  What if I am going to be up here all of the time now?”

“You know I think I could find a way to tolerate it.” he said. “I guess it just seemed like something you would like.  Whenever all of these courtly royal walls start closing in being up here makes me feel normal again.  You know what I mean?”

“Yeah, I know what you mean.” she replied. “You know, sometimes I cannot believe that I am really here after all these years.  It is like, I do not know, like coming home.  But it is not the same as I remember.  Something is seriously off kilter.”

“I will say,” he said. “It takes a certain kind of person to pack up, go to a foreign kingdom and try and win over a man that she had just met.  Commoners as royalty have never been Taboria’s cup of tea if you really think about it.”

“Is this your way of saying you think I am only here for Garyson?” Reimeiko asked. 

“Well are you not?” Derrick counterasked. “All of the other noble ladies are just here for him.  No, I take that back.  They are all just after the crown.  They are not in this for him.  I would say that you are the same as the rest of the crown chasers.”

“Then you would seriously be wrong about me.” Reimeiko snapped. “Maybe I am here for the adventure, or something more substantial than this waste of time contest which is rigged from the beginning and I have no chance of winning because I am not the present king’s idea of the woman for his crown prince.”

Furious about how this conversation was going, Reimeiko stood up and began to make her way back to the tree where she could get back to the ground with Derrick close behind.

[knightthunderis]

Ch 9 Explanations and Revelations

“Only one from there would know everything there is to know about all the other players in the game.” the duke admonished. “I would almost say for sure that your knowledge of us is equally thorough.”

“I also correlated and memorized the history of every house family from the first lock up to present day.” Reimeiko said. “Shall I give you the rundown of every house from the beginning to the present day?”

“Heavens no, that would take centuries for the long haul as you say.” Byron breathed. “And that would build up quite the appetite.  Which reminds me, now that you are here as our guest, the royal kitchens can make you anything your heart desires.  Go on ask for anything.”

“Anything huh?’ Reimeiko asked. “How about the biggest ice cream sundae I have ever seen with three spoons and I will share it with the two of you?”

“The finest chefs in the world and you choose an ice cream sundae of all things?” Byron sneered. After a few minutes they receive an ice cream sundae as big as Reimeiko’s head and three spoons. “Alright, I stand corrected, this is actually very good.”

“That is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen.” Malachi said. After the dining room, the brothers showed Reimeiko the sights, starting with the lofty rooms that proudly displayed the Alliance history. “And here in the historic east wing, we have the national Taborian gallery.”

“In the days past, this was the throne room, the center of power where reigning monarchs would hold court.  But once the new throne room was built, this became a gallery devoted to the important relics like the Taborian crown jewels.  Those are over here.” They led her to a display case where an orb and the Taborian scepter sit glistening on pillows.

“It is very orblike.” Reimeiko replied. “The golden scepter.  Is everything themed?”

“Oh yes, pretty much.” Byron said. “They are the symbols of the crown.  Every king and queen has held these during their coronation.”  

“You know, if everything goes according to plan and you marry Prince Karyson, you might one day hold them yourself.” Malachi added.

“I know that you want to tell them that Reimeiko is already married to Karyson.” Tristan said. “But you need to wait until I can reconnect him to me and Knight Wolf.”

“I like your confidence.” Malachi said. “And here is the palace pool and deck.  Floating the days away has never been so attainable.  It is like we are at a fancy hotel.”

“If by fancy hotel you mean an enduring symbol of the strength and dignity of the Taborian government.” Byron snapped.

“This is not the Thaddea I know and remember.” Reimeiko thought. “I just do not understand what happened to invoke all of these crazy changes?”

“The parents are still working on that.” Tristan said. “We need to find out who is ruling Thaddea in Dad’s place so we can fix the main situation.”

“Why is a bathroom part of the tour?” Reimeiko asked. “Do not get me wrong, it looks perfect for bubble baths.  Why is this particular bathtub and bathroom on the tour?”

“This is the biggest bathtub in the entire palace.” Malachi said. “It is perfect both in shape and height to achieve the optimal ratio of water to bubble levels.  I will share my formula with you later.”

“Please tell me when you say that this is the biggest tub in the entire palace,” Byron asked, “that you have not actually tried every tub in the royal palace? No wait, do not answer that.  I would like to maintain some level of plausible deniability on this.”

Malachi chuckled as he and Byron led Reimeiko to the last room of the royal tour, the royal throne and hall of portraits room.

“The royal throne room looks like it was totally made for me and the future.” Reimeiko replied. “I will gain him and everything about him for the sake of the future.”

“As it should be.” Byron said. “This is where the King and Queen sit to meet with foreign dignitaries and their people.  In the old days, it used to be that people and nobility alike had to pay their respect by kneeling and touching the hem of the king or queen.  But ever since a successful assassination on a queen several hundred years ago, that was outlawed.  In fact, you must never touch the king or queen physically without their permission.  Now, if you will follow me this way.”

Byron walked away from the thrones to the hall of portraits on the far end, but Reimeiko and Malachi hung back to really look at the thrones.

“I have always wondered if those thrones were comfortable.” Malachi asked her. “I wonder if they are as comfortable as they look from here at this vantage point.”

“As tempting as trying them on for size is.” Reimeiko replied. “Maybe we should respectfully look at them from a distance although, I know it is only what you have been doing your whole life.  Shall we catch up to Byron before he realizes that we are not listening?”

Without thinking twice, Reimeiko and Malachi hurry to catch up to Byron before he could turn around and find they were not with him.

“And this portrait of King Keitaro was bequeathed to him by the Count of Evedia as a gift.” Byron said.

“Wow, King Keitaro was extremely handsome.” Reimeiko replied, “He also has a very commanding air about him and is very hypnotic. Karyson, Racine, Koridon and Garyson’s great great grandfather on their mother Seidre’s side of the family was quite the fierce protector and defender as well.”  As Malachi skipped off to scout ahead, the grandeur of everything that had been seen hit Reimeiko hard but she had to act like she really did not know anything about her Karyson and Garyson’s royal home. “Wow, Karyson was not kidding when he said he was crown prince of Thaddea, was he?”

“I would much prefer it if you did not use his first name so much in public.” Byron said. “There is royal protocol to follow you realize after all.  But I am curious, what exactly are you doing here in Taboria?” 

“Well Your Grace, have you not ever been in love?” Reimeiko asked. Byron dumbfounded and blushing caught her attention. “I knew it! Alright wiseguy, who is the lucky lady in your life?”

“There is no one.  I do not have time for such diversions.” Byron said. “It is you we are talking about.  Why are you here trying to win the hand of Prince Garyson Walters?”

Reimeiko knew that she had to be careful how she answered for the sake of not blowing her cover, but also to make sure that she did not reveal herself too soon like Daryien said although Byron and Malachi already knew who she was and where she came from.

“Byron, believe it or not, fate led me here.” Reimeiko replied. “I am not sure why fate put Garyson in my path and brought me to you, but Karyson is special. I knew it from the moment we met and I did not even know that Garyson was a prince then unlike Karyson who is from Thaddea.  And now I have this incredible chance to reconnect with him thanks to you and Malachi.  Should I not follow through and see what happens next?  Do you think it is too sentimental?”

“No, Your Highness, I think I see it now.” Byron acknowledged. “You have a certain something about you, maybe a charm, I am not sure, but I sense something very familiar about you like you have been here before.  Perhaps you do have a slim sliver of a chance after all.”

“I knew there was something I did not like about him.” Tristan growled through the earpiece. “Byron Blanchard was not always a stuck up blowhard like he is now.  Back in the days before old man Blanchard deserted and abandoned them, Byron used to be cool.  Nowadays, he is just as stuck up as his old man. I wonder if there is more that happened to make him such a stiff.”

Reimeiko chuckled at Tristan’s rogue assessment. “Do not celebrate yet.” Byron said. “We will still have our work cut out for us.  If you are not careful, it could all end tomorrow.”

“Typical grouch.  You just could not end it on a high note could you?” Reimeiko asked.  Byron shrugged as Malachi returned to them.  To herself she thought. “I hope I do not regret making this move.  It would be a shame if the man I am already married to gets caught up in a bad case of bigamy.”

“Hey what is up?  Are you two coming?” Malachi asked. “Come on, I hear it is almost time for dinner and I am totally starved.  And it will be an excellent time to see what you know about the different silverware.”

“It sounds like a party.  Lead the way.” Reimeiko replied. Later on, after the tour of the palace and the dinner, Byron and Malachi walked with Reimeiko back to her room. “You know, I have to really say that this was really fun.  We are going to have so much fun together and thank you both for picking me for your house.”

“It was the best decision I have ever made as far as I can really tell.” Malachi said cheerfully

“The dye is cast, is it not?  I suppose we shall see just how you fare in the days to come and how much you have learned tomorrow in any case.” Byron added ruefully. “Good night, Reimeiko, we will find you tomorrow to plan for the masquerade.  If you need anything, we will be in the suite next door, otherwise, sleep well.”

She returned to her room and after her things are unpacked and put away, she sat at the table on her balcony and began typing away into her latest entry in her computer journal:  After the final battle with Chaotic and Nemesira, I thought we were done facing off with tyrants, dictators and conspiracies, but it seems there is another conspiracy to face off with.  Something has happened to separate Karyson from Tristan, Knight Wolf and his memories of being connected with Reimeiko Thunderis and where she fits into his life: A video call from Pepper paused her musings.  She knew that Pepper was going to have a ton of questions knowing the truth.

[knightthunderis]

Ch 8 Tours and History Lessons

Byron knew that this commoner had him over a barrel.  Without her, he, Malachi and House Blanchard were out of the running.  She was certainly not like any commoner he had ever come across besides Derrick Werner and his sister Serephine.  She did not negotiate terms like a commoner or a waitress.  She spoke like a CEO and there was something about the way she presented herself that actually made him afraid of her. She radiated power and strength.  She held herself in a stance of power and she knew it, she owned it and radiated it.  As he looked her over, he noticed her crest pin and recognized who it represented.  He had to agree to listen to and follow through on her terms if he wanted House Blanchard to survive this Social Season.  He sighed and then met Reimeiko’s eyes before speaking. “Alright Lady Reimeiko, what are your ground rules and terms.” the duke asked.

“Well first off I know that you recognize the crest I wear, so you now know who I really am.” Reimeiko started.

“Yes, Reimeiko Christyne Amaryllis Thunderis, Crown Princess of the kingdom of Thunderia.” Byron said.  “The eldest child of Thor and Kyiandra Thunderis.  But we will get into that later.  Now to your rules and regulations?”

“The rules and regulations are as follows.” Reimeiko said. “One, the word commoner is not to pass anyone’s mouth anymore.  You people spout it off like it is a vulgar word and it is not.  Except for a twist of fate, you could have been born into a common family and there is nothing wrong with them. Two, you will not talk down to me or treat me like I am inferior to you, you have to earn respect to gain it.  Three, no matter what happens, what I say goes no if, ands or buts about it.  I have spent my whole life being trained to be a queen, warrior, defender, protector, wife and mother.  I know the rules of court and customs and how to conduct myself as such so only if I need your knowledge elsewhere will I ask for it.  Four, the titles will only be engaged during these formal affairs no where else.  Titles do not make the person, it is how they act around others that makes them or breaks them.  Five, there will be straight up honesty if this is going to continue.  You know who I am, where I fit in and where I come from.  There will be no secrets here between us.  If I detect any falsehood or misinterpretation on your part, I will sever my connection to the both of you right then and there and there will be no turning back.  There will more than likely be more rules that come up but for now these are a start.  Are we agreed?”

“Agreed.” Byron and Malachi said.  Reimeiko sensed sincerity and honesty in both men and breathed a sigh of relief.

“Alright, now I want the full story from you about what is really going on with your house and family.” Reimeiko said, “I want the truth, no embellished fabrication.”

“Alright, like I said.” Byron replied sadly. “Perhaps Malachi did not fully explain what is going on, but I will.  While he has been around the prince, I have been back here doing the real work of running the house and estate.  And that is where you come in, but considering everything you brought to light, maybe we should reconsider our options.  You do not need us sponsoring you considering where you come from.”

“No, the sponsorship is a good cover,” Reimeiko said. “Just like my waitress cover at Russo’s.  ThunderStarUniversal will cover you financially for now, but because of the delicacy of this investigation I can not reveal everything yet.  I think there is more on your family’s financial strain than just old man Barnaby’s excessive spending.  Your finances will be covered in other ways for you two alone.  I have my suspicions about what is going on but until I have proof I really need you to trust me.”

“It is something we could use right now actually because we are kind of well very broke.” Malachi added. “I know I overstep but she said there was to be complete honesty and since she is representing our house, we can trust her because she is trusting us.”

“There is no shame in being broke.” Reimeiko said. “I have been there.  As long as you have the necessities in life everything else does not matter.  I guess that explains why I had to buy my own outfits and I guess I will be buying everything I will need here including the gown for the masquerade.  But that is okay.  As the Princess of Thunderia, I do have help in the financial situation in more ways than one.”

“Unfortunately that is precisely so.” Byron replied. “We can only afford the bare minimum.  No one outside House Blanchard knows how bad things really are for us.”

“Cecil is in this upto his ears and we have to know why and how.” EnDaryien said. “Reimeiko, using your Knight Thunder powers, do you sense anything out of the ordinary so far?”

“Maybe it is your former brother in law’s presence that is making me uneasy, but I am not sure.” Reimeiko thought. “I will keep digging to find it all.  He is married to Seidre’s twin sister Coradae.  I am sure that she will remember Reimeiko uh, I mean me.” Aloud, she asked. “Do you get money if I end up marrying the prince?”

“Not directly.” Byron replied. “But we can leverage the prestige to great effect.  It would be best to get that leverage before others found out our situation.  In the circles we run in, if word got out about our financial ruin, it would be a major scandal.  but our name is still worth something here in the royal line.”

“Their financial ruin is due to Barnaby’s major spending.” Marco said through the earpiece. “According to reports, he is in a coma in a major hospital in the West Indies.”

Reimeiko switched to Thunderian. “I think that ought to be checked out.  Something tells me that if this coma is for real then he would not be squandering the family fortune and there would be receipts of the purchases.”

“I will check right into that and send a small group to check out the hospital that Barnaby is supposedly in.” Marco said.

“At the very least, we can introduce you to the right people and get you invitations to the right events.” Malachi replied. “We can offer you a first rate education in the ways of court, starting with your wardrobe and branching out from there.”

“What did I just say about an education?” Reimeiko asked. “I know more about the ways of court and warfare than any of those so-called women in this court.  I am about to show those snobs up when I win Karyson back and get to the bottom of this mystery.  And what is wrong with what I am wearing?  I will have you remember this is the formal uniform of the houses of Thunderia and Galaxia and I represent both.”

“I guess one could consider it well, unconventionally adventurous.” Byron offered. “The point is whether or not you dress the part.  Now it is time to start memorizing the lineage of each great house.  No wait. Perhaps it is more urgent to educate you on silverware from the least to the most obscure.  You may dress the part but you also need to play it.”

“Byron, breathe.” Reimeiko ordered. “I am up-to-date on courtly maneuvers, table etiquette, manners, wine tasting, various dinner conversations and otherwise.  Furthermore, I was at the top of my class when it came to memorizing and knowing the lineage of all of the kingdoms in and around the Universal Alliance.  I know everything there is to know about your kingdom’s various great houses and that is including yours.”

“Hey, Byron, let us not scare Reimeiko off.  She just got here.” Malachi replied. “We should show her the more fun side of living here.  I was going to take her on a tour of the palace.”

“Yes, I suppose that it would not do for Reimeiko to get lost or worse,” Byron gulped. “cause an international incident by walking into the wrong room. But the lessons--”

“Maybe while we are on the tour,” Malachi added. “You can talk about the royals of the past or something.  Teach while we are on the tour. I know that you can walk and talk at the same time.”

“I hope that you mean the distinguished history of the kingdoms.” Byron replied. “What do you say to a tour guide, Reimeiko?  Do you want to see all that the palace has to offer?”

“I would be delighted.” Reimeiko said. “I am a learning sponge.  I am ready for everything you wish to teach me.  Although, I know everything there is to know about all of the Universal Alliance kingdoms.”

“Yeah, totally radical.” Malachi gushed. “I do not even know where to start, but it does not matter since we are going to see everything.”

“Oh heaven help me.” Byron sighed. “Now the first stop is the dining room.  The Ruby dining room was built in the seventeen hundreds and is a display of the kingdom’s great wealth.  Everything you see here is made of the finest materials and by artisans at the top of their trade.  This room is most renowned for hosting the terms of the peace treaty between Thaddea and the as of yet burgeoning country of Armentaria.”

“Armentaria is well known for its overload of military might and the royal family’s brute force.” Reimeiko chimed. “The present queen Elisha is quite the stuck up little twerp, acting like she is higher and more powerful than anyone else around, but she is also arrogant, spoiled, self-centered, conceited, rude and very obnoxious.”

“You seem to speak from having experienced meeting her somewhere along the way in your life and travels.” Byron acknowledged.

“Unfortunately yes.” Reimeiko said. “I mean, granted, as young as she was at the time, she really had and has no idea how much bigger, stronger, and more powerful the Universal Alliance is compared to her fleet.  Her husband is a big blowhard who is all talk and no real action.  He talks a big game and can dish it out but he can never take it.  He is all big and bad when he is in the lead and is pushing people around, but if the tables get turned on him or someone calls his bluff and takes him down, he runs off like the hounds of hell are on his tail.”

“Wow. Now that is what I call calling them like you see them.” Malachi said gushing. “You really are the Princess of Thunderia and the leader of the Universal Alliance.”  

[knightthunderis]

Ch 7 Reunited Knights

“Does he have any idea as to what happened to put Cecil in as leader?” Reimeiko asked. “It just does not make any sense.  And he had to have known that Karyson and Reimeiko were married before the final battle with Darkonia and the transfer to here.”

“Fame looks good on you.” Malachi was saying. “Soon it is always going to be like this.  Everyone is talking about you, admiring your look, taking your photo. In fact, we will make sure of it at the Masquerade Ball tomorrow night.  They are all of the women vying for Garyson’s hand.  They arrived today just like you.  Just smile, wave and keep walking.”

“Who is that with Malachi Blanchard?” Bondo Drayson asked. “She looks very familiar, but look, there is Lady Melinda Edward and--”

“Oh wow, it is Princess Amaryllis of Thunderia.” Pepper threw in, “The daughter of Thor and Kyiandra Kinsworthy Thunderis of Asgard, Thenoria, and Thunderia.  The rest of these nobles do not stand a chance against her.”

Reimeiko met Pepper’s eyes and mouthed the words thank you and I will call you once I get settled.  Pepper sent her a thumbs up but not before Malachi noticed.

“The paparazzi might not know who you are right now.” Malachi said. “But soon you will be the toast of the town.  We will make sure of it at the Masquerade Ball tomorrow night.”

As more paparazzi snapped photos and called out to Reimeiko, Malachi led her down the red carpet to the palace where they joined up with Derrick.

“You went down the red carpet and got out of sight real fast Derrick.” Reimeiko teased.

“The red carpet theme is not really my scheme of things.” Derrick announced. “Anyway, we need to get you inside, the palace awaits. Welcome to your home for the next few months.”

“Most of the nobility live here while the social season is underway.” Malachi added. “Especially the ladies vying for the prince’s hand.  The competition is seriously stiff for the most part.”

“Having all of you under one roof will make it easier for you to make it through the rose ceremony later.” Derrick replied.

“Derrick is just kidding about the rose ceremony.” Malachi said. “Anyway I will show you to your room for the duration of your time here at the palace.”

“And that is my cue to take off.” Derrick smirked. “I will see you around the palace if you are lucky.” Reimeiko watched as Derrick walked off and then followed Malachi into the palace and up the grand staircase.”

“I do not see Daryien shucking Karyson off like a side of beef when he knows that Reimeiko and Karyson are married and he is off limits to the outside world.” Tristan said through the earpiece. “Daryien is not there in the royal capacity, so someone is ruling in his place and we need to find out who and fast.”

“So just out of curiosity, what is the deal with Derrick?” Reimeiko asked. “Why is he so hot and jaded?  I have come across many like him in my time, but he is more jaded than most.”

“Oh do not mind him.” Malachi said. “He, Jedrick, Cedrick, Nerick, and Zedrick never really fit in and got used to courtly life.  He is a commoner.  He has always been an outsider here even if he is one of the Prince’s best friends.”

“Good Lord, they throw that word commoner around like it is a vulgar word.” Reimeiko thought. “The sooner we get Karyson and Tristan reunited and away from here the better.”

“I am with you on that thought, my love.” Tristan replied. “Just the way he said the word commoner makes me want to throw up.”

On the fourth floor on the North side of the palace, Malachi turned down a hall all the way to the end in front of an ornate door.

“And here is your room with the best view of the palace grounds and the town.” Malachi said. “As a royal guest, you are spared no luxury.”

“So nothing is stopping from cleaning out the mini bar or jumping on the bed?” Reimeiko asked with a mile long grin.

“There is no mini bar, but the staff will get you anything you like.” he said. “And only your dignity will stop you from jumping on the bed.”

She ran and jumped into the bed sighing as she sank happily into the mattress. “Perfect.  This is so much better than memory foam.” she said laughing.

“I am glad that you like it.” Malachi replied. “If you like, once you are settled, I can show you around.”

Right about then, their conversation was interrupted by a heavy knocking on the door. “Malachi Alexander Blanchard, I can hear you in there.” Byron barked loudly. “I need to speak with you this instant.”

“It sounds like someone is looking for and wants to talk to you.” Reimeiko whispered stifling a giggle.

“Right, uh Reimeiko, I think you should let me do the talking where he is concerned.” Malachi replied. “My brother is kind of complicated to explain or describe.”

The door burst open, and an imposing man with a stern expression strode in. “Malachi, I have heard the most alarming report.” Byron declared.

“Byron, it is good that you are here.” Malachi said. “I was not expecting you until much later, but now that you are here, this girl is the one I was telling you about, Reimeiko Thunderis.”

“Ah I see.  So what I have heard is true.” he snarled. “This is the woman you have chosen to represent our house and family.”

“Yep. I nailed it right?” Malachi asked. “Reimeiko, this is my brother Byron Blanchard, Duke of Chinoa.  Byron, this is Reimeiko Thunderis, our sponsored lady.”

“It is nice to meet you Duke Blanchard.” Reimeiko replied, dropping into a swift curtsy.

“The proper way to address a duke is Your Grace.” Byron sneered.

Reimeiko rolled her eyes. “Oh great,” Reimeiko thought. “He is one of those kinds of nobles.” Out Loud, she said sarcastically. “Oh I am so sorry, Your Grace, Malachi did not mention the stick up your rear end.”

“Charming.” Byron sneered. “Flat insolence is not a trait I would have chosen for the Prince’s suitor.  I can see that she has a lot of spirit.  Malachi, I would like a word with you, in private.”  

Byron grabbed Malachi’s arm and hauled him out of the room slamming the door behind them, but she could faintly hear their voices through it.

“It sounds like they are talking about me.” Reimeiko thought. “I should at least listen in.  It might give me an advantage in the long run.”

“That is the woman you picked to represent our family?” Byron demanded angrily. “How could you have been so stupid, Malachi?”

“Karyson really hit it off with her when they met at the restaurant for his bachelor party.  She was our waitress.” Malachi explained.

“Waitress?!” Byron said shocked. “You brought a waitress?  I knew I should not have trusted you to this.  We could have had our choice of any unsponsored duchess or countess in half the world and you brought a waitress?”

“If helping Karyson getting his memories and his connection to me back was not so important,” Reimeiko thought sourly. “I would tell them to take this contest, their snobby attitudes, and shove it up their butts.  But getting Karyson his memories of his and my past together is too important.” 

She went back to listening. “Well sure.” Malachi replied. “But like I said, she and Karyson have a lot of chemistry and he really likes her.  I know you probably do not care, but she could make him really happy.  Like I have never seen him so happy kind of happy.  I mean, should Karyson not have a shot at love like that even if he is the prince?”

“Spare me your sentimentality.” the duke sneered. “You had better hope this waitress does not ruin everything for us.  It was bad enough you brought a waitress into this, but a commoner as well.”

“Oh if only he knew who you really were.” Serenity said through her communicator. “But I suppose until Prince Karyson is reunited with Tristan and Knight Wolf thereby regaining his memories of you two together, you will have to go along with the contest until then.”

“And of course deal with all of the arrogant, conceited, and self-centered nobles around.” Reimeiko groaned. “How far away are the Knights and our fleet?”

“The Knights are blending in even as we speak.” Serenity said. “And the fleet and I will be within earshot when you need us.  Uh oh, they are coming back to you.”

She heard some indistinct shouting, but after a few moments, the door is thrown open and the brothers reenter the room. 

“Fantastic, she was listening to everything that was being said.” the duke sneered. “You brought a woman with absolutely no manners.”

“Yeah, I was listening, and I do not like what I heard.” she replied very angrily. “You dumbnuts do not know a thing about me and you brother is the one who invited me here.  But if you are so unhappy with me, Your Grace, you can get yourself another girl.”

“No please, you cannot go.” Malachi pleaded. “People have already seen us together, so they know you are our pick.  If you go now then we have no one to pick up where you leave off.”

“Malachi is unfortunately correct.” the duke sighed. “For the time being we are stuck with you.”

“Well right now the feeling is very mutual.” Reimeiko growled. “If I stay to help you, I am going to have to lay down some serious ground rules.”

“Now see here, I am not about to follow the rules of a suitor, especially a low down commoner.” Byron snapped.

“Uh, you picked me, remember?” Reimeiko barked. “Now, it seems to me that I am the one who will make or break your house’s reputation so you will listen to and follow through on what I have to say or you will have no one to represent you this late in the game.  So what is it going to be?”

“Dang, she is good.” Malachi thought. “I have never known anyone to put their foot down that hard where Byron was concerned except for Mom and Dad.” 

Byron sighed.  He looked to Malachi who raised his hands and stepped back retreating.

[knightthunderis]

The Royal Romance Knight Thunder Style

Chapters 7 & 8 will be up in the next few days at my blogs both KnightThunderis and ThunderStarUniversalEnterprises.  If I haven’t tagged you and you want to be added to my tags list let me know and I will get you there.