Chapter 48

Six long months pass, and Brendlewood castle operates as normal. It is almost as though we are cut off from the rest of the realm. With Parfon and Phillip locked in the dungeons no strange events occur, and no dangerous threats present themselves. The villager's begin referring to this as "The Time of Peace". But surely it isn't, for our dear friends are still lost. My visions have all but stopped, and there has been no new leads on our friends or our enemies. With nearly all of Brendlewood's troops occupied on previous missions, there are no more we can spare to send out. Several groups are given new orders to search for the missing people, but no word has been received. 

Roonie waddles up to me as I make my way to the grand hall. "Nora! I think my  water has broken! Where is Luke?" she breathlessly exclaims. "He's gone fishing with Arthur. Just stay calm. I'll send a guard to fetch them, and get Midi straight away!" I reassure her. Soon Midi and I get Roonie safely nestled in a bed, and the doctor arrives. "Looking well Roonie! Ready to have a baby today?" he asks playfully. Roonie gives an uncertain nod, and glances around nervously. "Don't worry Roonie. You will do just fine" I smile as I sweep the hair from her eyes. "I'm here! I'm here my darling!" Luke announces as the door swings open with a  bang, and he and the others enter the room excitedly. Roonie bursts into tears telling him that she's afraid. Her high-pitched hiccups and cries are almost incomprehensible, but Luke understands each word. "I know darling, I know. You're doing a great job, and soon our child will be here" he says in a calming tone. After what seems like forever, the doctor announces that she's ready to deliver the baby, and we respectfully wait outside of the room. Luke of course remains by her side, and her cries seem to echo throughout the entire castle. 

Arthur, Bonnie, Jax, Tulip, Cade and I gather in a room nearby, waiting for the delivery of the prince or princess of Learia. "Poor Roonie. Sounds like it's a rough delivery" Tulip says rather solemnly. Jax takes her hand and gives it squeeze, "I'm sure she's fine" he whispers. "Well I could use something to eat" Arthur mentions as he rub his belly. Bonnie frowns and slugs him in the arm firmly, "How are you thinking of food right now? Our friend, your sister is in there in agony!" He gives his arm a rub, wincing briefly, "Ow! Your gonna get it now" he kids. Reaching out to tickle her she jumps up and giggles, "Nooo!" Cade rolls his eyes, "Ha! Those too, always goofin' around". I sit quietly listening to yet another friend of mine give birth, and wonder if I will ever be with child again. "What if I never have an heir to the Brendlewood throne? Surely Bonnie wouldn't be able to take over, since she is not a blood relative of the king" I think to myself. "Psst" Cade signals, as he gently nudges my side. "I know what you're thinking. Don't worry babe, it will happen for us. I just know it". I try to give a smile, and rest my head on his shoulder. We've been trying so long now, I just don't know if it will ever happen. Suddenly an ear-piercing scream is heard coming from the delivery room, and a nearby vase shatters. The group exchanges worried and surprised looks. Tulip gasps and rises to her feet, "Something terrible has happened. I can feel it!" 

Luke emerges from the room, with a solemn expression on his face. "W-We lost the baby..." he manages to softly say. Shock spreads across the room at the news, and Tulip darts into the delivery room. We follow suite and find Roonie passed out in the bed, a lifeless baby in a nearby bassinet. As we start questioning Midi and the doctor to find out what happened, Tulip takes a look into the bassinet. "Sweet baby..." I hear her whisper. Suddenly she gets a look on her face, one that seems as though she's been struck with an idea. She fumbles for something in her enchantment pouch and pulls out a small purple bag. "Sleeping child so fair and small. Now breath of life, come back to us all" she whispers. She sprinkles the powder over the baby, but the child remains still. "You did your best" I tell her as I join her by the bassinet. "How am I ever going to help the kingdom at this rate? Cirrus wasn't done instructing me when she was taken from us" she tells me. "Because you have a pure heart, and use your powers for good. You feel what needs to be done, and follow through courageously" I reply encouragingly. 

A sound from the bassinet interrupts us, and we look upon the baby whose chest suddenly rises with a breath of air. He wiggles around, eyes still closed, and let's out a gentle cry. "Cirrus would be proud!" I tell Tulip and we clap our hands together in joy. Tulip blushes deeply, and Jax pulls her into a hug, "You're amazing darling! TRULY AMAZING!" The others exclaim joyful comments, but Luke stands in silence. He stares down at the handsome baby boy with tears filling his eyes. Tears fall onto the child and he slowly opens his eyes as Luke reaches out and takes his newborn son into his arms. Midi smiles sweetly and approaches Luke slowly, "Sire might I clean and swaddle him for you?" Luke gives a nod, and walks over to Tulip with a serious expression across his face. "Dearest friend, loyal enchantress, myself and the kingdom of Learia is forever in your debt. Your every wish will be filled to the best of our abilities. I humbly thank you from the bottom of my heart" he says straight-faced. Luke then drops to his knee, and hangs his head in the deepest of bows. Everyone looked on in absolute disbelief, for never has a King bowed to someone of lower stature. Tulip stumbles over her words thanking him, going red in the cheeks. 

Midi returns with the young prince of Learia, and handed him to his father. "There ya are majesty. He's healthy as a horse!" she smiles. Luke beams and takes a seat bedside to Roonie. She stirs slightly, and opens her eyes. "Oh Luke, I'm so sorry. I tried to give you a child" she whispers solemnly. "Maroon, darling Roonie. Our son lives! The wonderful enchantress Tulip has rescued him" Luke exclaims excitedly. Roonie sits up quickly, wincing slightly, "W-What?!" She covers her mouth with both hands as she notices the child wiggling about. She bursts into tears and waves Tulip over to her. "My dear friend, I love you so! How can I ever thank you or repay you? I am truly in your debt. Bless you, truly!" She squeals in absolute joy. Tulip hugs her tightly, "I'm glad I could help. I love you my sweet friend." Luke hands Roonie the child and she grins from ear to ear. The child's brown eyes glisten as he stares up at his mother, and he coo's softly. "Maroon hair, like his Momma. Shall we give him a name dear?" Luke asks. The two whisper together for a few minutes and turn to us with large smiles. "May we present Prince Everett Davis Lioncourt" Luke announces. "Rhett for short" Roonie chimes in as they search our faces eagerly waiting our thoughts. My opinionated daughter, Bonnie speaks up first, "Well it's certainly a mouthful, but I like it." Everyone pipes up about what a grand name it is, and take turns holding the little prince of Learia. 

Midi returns with an envelope for Luke, and informs him that his and Roonie's meal will be served in the delivery room, so as to give them time together as a family. Luke reads the letter thoroughly and replies, "Wonderful news of Learia's condition. The royal courts have advised me that the town is in good shape and growing quickly. They have advised it is safe for my return. In a few days time we will journey to Learia. Our kingdom will be awaiting their new prince. But don't you worry we will visit Brendlewood quite often" Luke tells everyone. Cade shakes his hand firmly, "We welcome you any time brother. I trust you will join with us to take care of this Dragon Valley nonsense?" Luke nods, "Of course my friend! I'm just glad my royal courts have been doing their best rebuilding our kingdom. Finally we have a royal guard, to stand with our Brendlewood neighbors." Bittersweet congratulations are shared at the news of Luke and Roonie's return to Learia. 

"Midi, please return correspondence to the royal court to prepare for the royal ceremonies for Prince Rhett" Luke instructs her. "Also, with your permission darling...I feel like our kingdom is due for celebration" Roonie mentions. Luke's eyes light up, and he agree's happily. "I think we should host a ball! We can invite the royals of Brendlewood too. The kingdoms can get to know one another and have a merry time!" she squeaks. "Well technically we aren't royal..since I renounced my title" Arthur mentions. "Don't be silly, you're family! Of course you and Bonnie are invited" Luke says. "Oh yes! Please do join us" Roonie tells Bonnie. She gives a pleasant smile and thanks her. "What a wonderful idea Roonie! Are you sure you'll be up to it?" I ask her with concern. "Absolutely! I am so excited to show off this little one!" she answers. While the others talk excitedly, Roonie pulls me close and whispers, "I want to do something to honor Tulip for saving my son. Help me think of some ideas?" I give her a warm smile and of course agree. "Look at his chubby little cheeks" I say as I fawn over him. A knock at the door brings the kitchen aid informing us that dinner is served. 

After dinner, Bonnie mentions that she would like to take a walk down to the village and pick up a few things from her home. "Why don't you have one of the royal tenants do it for you dear?" I ask. "Well as much as that woman boils my blood, I need to visit Clover to check on baby Harper" she tells me. "You can come along if you like." I give her a smile, "Why, I think I will! It's a nice evening for a walk. Let me just let Cade know." A few moments later we're off to the village, happily chatting as we stroll through the courtyard. The gentle breeze feels lovely, and I think to myself how nice it is to spend some one on one time with my daughter. "At this rate she's the only child I'll ever have" I think to myself. She makes a joke about Arthur, and I give her my best smile. She's no fool though, and see's straight through it. "Oh Mom, what's the matter?" she asks with concern in her voice. "Well dear, a few days ago I had a check up with the royal doctor. Cade and I haven't been able to conceive children as you know, and I was a bit concerned. Unfortunately, the doctor told me that it's highly unlikely that I should ever be with child again. Even if I were to become pregnant, there would be a great chance for serious complications, or even death..." I explain downheartedly. 

Bonnie gasps, "Oh Mother, I had no idea! I'm so sorry to hear this. What did Cade say when you told him?" Then follows a few seconds of silence while I gather my thoughts. "I..well I-I haven't told him yet" I stammer. "What? Why not? Oh you have to tell him! You can't go through this alone" she says stopping on the path. "I know, but after everything that's gone on, I just can't disappoint him. How am I supposed to tell the man I love, that I'll never be able to give him an heir...that I'll never make him a father" I tell her as tears stream down my face. Bonnie pulls me into a hug, and strokes my hair gently. "I'm sorry Mom. You know I would be the heir if I were of royal blood. But with Arthur renouncing his title we are no more than common villagers. Come on then, don't worry. You know Cade will be understanding about it. He's a good man Mom. I know you all can work through this together" she tells me. I nod and try to dry my eyes. "Please don't say anything to anyone. You're the first person I've told" I mention. She agrees, and links arms with me as we continue on our way to the village. "You know... I think I've been noticing a softer side to you lately" I tease. "Ha! You wish! The only thing softer about me is the weight that I've put on. The neighbors keep making delicious treats for us, and I just can't say no!" she laughs.

Once Bonnie has picked up her forgotten things from her home we head over to Clover and Reed's place for a short visit. "What did you get Roonie and Luke?" I ask inquisitively. She turns a slight red and glances down at the parcel and card she is carrying before replying, "It's a teddy bear...that I stitched." I give her a huge smile, "Oh my goodness! Bonnie Lioncourt has gone all domestic!" "Well I figured I'd learn a thing or two about being a good wife. Thought it might come in handy" she says playfully. Along the wooded path we travel to the Bank's residence, joking and talking of married life. Just before night falls we reach the field near the small cottage, and gasp at a shocking scene before us.

Laying dead in the field is a huge troll, a large wooden spear is plunged through his heart. Reed's hand still clutches the other end of the spear, but he too lies dead in a pool of blood. I scream and clap my hand over my mouth in fear. "Oh my goodness! Where's Clover and the baby?" Bonnie calls out. I check Reed's body for any sign of life, but alas there is none. "Mother! Come here quick!" Bonnie calls. I rush to her quickly where we find, not far from the troll and Reed, what is left of Clover. Her lifeless body is a gruesome sight. Her abdomen has been torn open, and a few of her limbs are missing. Bonnie and I glance at each other silently, both too afraid to ask the question...Where is Harper? "This is dreadful. I wonder what a troll was doing so close to the village?" I ask. I look over at Bonnie and she appears to be crying. Though this situation is most truly horrific, it's not like Bonnie to cry like this. "Dear, are you going to be alright?" I carefully ask. Through her sobs I make out her words, "That poor child!" I pull her into a hug as we both take a moment to mourn the loss of the Banks family. 

Suppose Harper has not been lost..." Bonnie says finally catching her breath. "Could Clover have left her in the house? Let's go check!" I blurt out. We sprint towards the house, making record time. The old porch steps groan as we climb them quickly, and fling open the front door. Inside the house is still. Vegetables lay sprawled on the kitchen counter, waiting to be prepared. A meatloaf sits uneaten in a pan nearby. The fireplace is dark, and Harper's toys are scattered about the living area. We fear for the worst as we tear through the house quickly. "Did you hear that? I think I heard something" I exclaim. A whimpering sound comes from the back of the cottage, and my heart races in hopes that it's Harper. 

In her crib we find the little baby wiggling about and cooing playfully. "Oh thank goodness! I was so worried about you!" Bonnie exclaims as she scoops up the child. I can't help but to smile at them and give Harper a little kiss on the forehead. "What will become of you little one?" Bonnie asks looking into the babies eyes. "This child is now an orphan. As Queen of Brendlewood, I declare that if you so choose, this child is now yours" I tell Bonnie with a smile. "W-What? I can't...I mean I don't know what to do with a child" Bonnie lies. "Oh come now! I've seen you with those village children at the school. And, I know how much you helped Clover when she was getting started" I reassure her. "Besides, I see the way that you love her. It's written all over your face." Bonnie smiles at the baby girl and replies, "Yes, but Arthur-" "Will be overjoyed!" I interrupt. 

Bonnie gives me a huge smile and hugs baby Harper closely. "Let's gather up her things and head back to the castle for now. I can't wait to tell Arthur! I hope it will be a happy surprise for him!" she tells me. "Sounds good dear. I'm sure the surprise will be wonderful! We can send word for a clean up crew to take care of the Bank's place. Suppose that must have been a rogue troll thought he would grab an easy meal. It's just so tragic" I reply. We gather up Harper's belongings and start off toward the castle. "Everyone is probably wondering where we are! I hope Luke & Roonie are still up so that I might give them their gift" Bonnie mentions. "Me too" I add as I readjust the strap of the bag I'm carrying. The lantern shines bright through the dark field, and the empty village streets. "Bonnie dear, let me carry Harper a ways. You look faint, are you alright?" I ask worriedly. Bonnie answers slightly out of breath, "I'm...fine. Besides, you're already carrying so much." I shake my head and take the child from her arms with a smile, "No problem! I would love a turn holding this little one." 

A short while later we reach the castle courtyards, but Bonnie looks peckish and wipes the sweat from her brow. Before I can ask if she's ok, she collapses to the ground. "Oh my! Bonnie! Bonnie are you alright? Guards! Come quickly!" I shout as loud as I can. With my arms full I'm unable to tend to her, but notice three guards sprinting towards us from the other end of the grounds. "I just don't know what happened. She simply collapsed. Please bring her to the first spare bedroom on the ground floor" I instruct them. "I'll get her your highness" Cantor the high guard offers. He scoops up Bonnie and gently carries her over his shoulder. The two other guards grab Harper's belongings and we rush to the castle. 

Once inside the doctor is summoned immediately and shoo's us from the room so that he can evaluate Bonnie. Meanwhile, I catch everyone up on the events with the Bank's family. "That is why baby Harper is with us now you see? Arthur, this child has no family now. I know you and Bonnie have really helped Reed and Clover so much, and I know you've grown very fond of this little one" I explain. Arthur nods, "We have indeed. Clover and Reed even offered for us to be her Godparents." I smile warmly, "Then it makes perfect sense that you and Bonnie shall be this child's parents now, doesn't it?" The group murmurs together in agreement, and Arthur stands proudly, "Yes Ma'am. We would be all too happy." With that he reaches out and takes the child, embracing her lovingly. "We'll have a decree made up for her last name to match yours" Cade offers. "Yes that would be wonderful! Thank you" Arthur replies happily. 

Everyone discusses the tragedy of the Bank's, and the merry news of Bonnie and Arthur becoming parents. "E-Excuse me majesties..."  Tinette stutters between our words. The frail scullery maid wears a concerned expression, and her aprons have a bit of blood smeared across them. "What is it?" I ask hurriedly. She curtsies and replies, "The doctor would like to see your highnesses" she blurts out. The group exchanges glances, and we hurry to Bonnie's room. 

Wide awake, but looking shocked, Bonnie sits in her bed fit as a fiddle. "The maids were kind enough to get me a fresh outfit and tie up my hair" she smiles. "Doctor? What's going on? What's happened?" Tulip asks quickly. "Ah well, it's quite interesting really. I've only ever seen one other case of Miss Bonnie's condition, and she was just as surprised. You see, there are some very rare cases in which a woman can become pregnant, but have no indication of the pregnancy" he tries to explain. "Oh my gosh! Bonnie is pregnant!?" Tulip claps her hands together excitedly. Arthur looks even more surprised as he holds baby Harper in his arms. But, the doctor continues, "Well your majesties, Bonnie was pregnant. But she is not any longer-" "Ohhh no! She's lost the baby!?" Jax interjects. The doctor gives a chuckle, "Definitely not, he's quite alright." Arthur perks up, "He, sir?" "Yes indeed, he. Your wife has been pregnant for quite some time now without her knowledge. Nine whole months in fact, and so this evening she went into labor. She collapsed from the suddenness of it all, and when she was brought me, she delivered a healthy baby boy. Both mother and child are perfectly healthy. You've nothing to worry about" he tells Arthur. Everyone lets out a gasp of pure excitement, and congratulate Arthur once again. Bonnie begins laughing happily, "I don't think I've ever been this happy. How quickly we've become parents! Are you happy?" Arthur rushes to her side, "More than you could ever know darling". He kisses her deeply, and Tinette brings the baby boy over to them. There they all sit together on the bed. The new family of four. "What shall you call him?" we ask curiously. "Not sure yet, give us a few minutes, would you?" Arthur requests. "Sure thing!" Cade says. 

We wait in the hall while Bonnie and Arthur take a moment for themselves. "Cookie sends her congratulations to both of the happy couples" Marcie the kitchen aid announces as she enters the hall. "She's made up these midnight treats for the lot of you" she tells us further. "Thank you Marcie, please serve us in the sitting room. Then, take these to King Luke and Queen Roonie. Bonnie and Arthur are having a private family moment so serve them last please" I tell her. "Aye, Mum" she replies. Cade leads the way around the corner to the sitting room, and we gasp at our findings there. "What is the meaning of this?" Cade questions in surprise. There in the sitting room we find Midi and the high guard Cantor with their arms around one another, locked in a passionate kiss. They suddenly break away; Midi goes completely red and curtsies, while Cantor drops to his knee in a bow. "Oh your royal highness, a thousand apologies!" Midi  begs. "Majesties please forgive us of this intrusion" Cantor adds. Not sure how Cade wants to handle things, I wait quietly for his response. But, he breaks into a hearty laugh. "Ah it seems that love is in the air here in Brendlewood Castle. Do keep your private affairs in your personal quarters, and on your own time if you will" he instructs them. Quickly they rise, and thank him giving a bow before rapidly exiting the room. 

As we sit mingling, and discussing the days events, Bonnie and Arthur join us with their new children. We rise to greet them, and wait eagerly for the announcement of their son's name. "Ok, we seem to have agreed on one" "Arthur tells us happily. "We thought it might be nice if the kids share the same initials, so that helped us narrow things down" Bonnie adds. "With out further ado, let us welcome Hunter Levi Lioncourt" Arthur reveals. "Oh how lovely!" Tulip exclaims hugging Bonnie. "Harper Lilac and Hunter Levi, how  adorable! Congratulations you two!" I tell them. Cade and Jax congratulate them as well, and Arthur suggests that Bonnie get back to her rest. "Oh but I want to tell Luke  and Roonie the news!" she objects. "Plenty of time for that later dear. I don't want you exhausting yourself" he says kindly. "Don't worry Bon, I'll have one of the maids send them to your room" I tell her. "Oh all right. And when did you become so bossy, huh?" she kids with Arthur. He laughs and scoops up Harper. "I suppose we should all be getting some rest now. It's been a long day for all of us" Cade suggests. We bid goodnight to each of them, and retire to our bed chambers.