The Queen of Isles: The Trial

She sat on the throne, in a grey gown.Her eyes were puffy and sore from crying.
Her cheeks were pale and stained from tears running dry.
Her lips cracked.
Her hair was a little shabby, and she looked dull, very dull.

"I am not guilty, Your Grace." said Portria.
She stood in the conviction box, before a Jury consisting of five members.
The leftmost position was occupied by Sir Lann Grey, the defense minister.
Then sat Charles Hugh , The Justice of Lea.
In the middle, sat Rincy Matilda, Queen of Isles, Ruler of the kingdom of Westerhall and the Ultimate Chief Justice of the nation.
To her left, sat Love Cruz and Charles Jackson, Justices from other parts of the country.

"Speak when you're given a chance"ordered Rincy.
"The trial, shall begin." she announced.
"My client, Portria Jaccob has been convicted of murdering the late Queen of Isles, Ruler of Westerhall, Ra.." 
"Get to the point Advocate Max", cut in Rincy.
Ben Max was an advocate in the High court of Lea. He was a criminal lawyer,well  experienced and of know reputation. Reputation to not lose a single case, he fights.
He now fought for Portria Jaccob.

"The late Queen's death was recorded to be on the 12th February, this year, at 20:54", said Max, stating the obvious facts.
"My client, Ms Jaccob was on duty that day. She was scheduled to hold a meeting in conference room one,at 20:00 which lasted for an fifty minutes. So, obviously she couldn't have committed the murder." he argued.
 Love Cruz intervened, and asked,"Can you prove to this court, that Ms Jaccob was in the meeting?"
"Yes, of course." said Max, with confidence.
"I request, Your Grace's permission to play the video of the CCTV footage of the camera from the conference room."
"Granted." said Rincy, her eyes, still sternly focused on Portria.

The video played on a screen that hung on the wall.
It showed Portria lead the meeting, with three other members in the conference hall at 20:15. The video ran till 20:50 and then stopped.
"So , Your Grace, from the video, it is clear that my client was in the conference hall while the murder had been committed. It thus, is proved that she is innocent."
"Your video lasts till 20:50. And the time of death is 20:54. She still could have done it." argued Lann Grey.

Max smiled, and said,"The late Queen was found dead in the circum office. And the circum office is on the first floor. Where as conference hall one is on the ground floor, and it takes six minutes to reach there. If time of death was 20:54, which is gives four minutes in hand, Ms Jaccob couldn't have reached in time." he argued.

Rincy stood up.
Her eyes fixed on Portria.
Everyone stood up, tensed.
"Unless, Advocate Max, unless, the meeting wasn't held in conference hall one."
All eyes turned to Portria.
Portria's face turned pale.
Her heart beat fast.

"Rincy, you have to trust me! I didn't kill your mother. And why do you believe Theodon?" she asked.
Rincy looked around the crowd. Theodon stood in a corner, among other ministers.

"The court is adjourned for the day. The next meet will be tomorrow, at 10:00" she announced.
 She walked down the Diaz, and towards Portria.
"I won't let you escape this one Portria Jaccob. Be ready to face the worst days of your life.", she whispered, and walked out of the hall with poise.

The Queen of Isles: The Murder

"She was intentionally set ablaze."
This sentence resonated in Rincy's ears like church bells.
She was completely shaken.
She did hear Theodon say often, that her mother had enemies. But not once did she think, that her mother's death could be a murder.

Her throat ran dry.
Her forehead glistened with beads of sweat.
Her calf muscles turned weak, and she stumbled to catch a seat.
Her thoughts were all haphazard.
Several questions arose.


"My MOTHER was murdered???" she yelled.
Theodon, coming back to his senses, registered what he had just done.
"Crap! What did I do? She wasn't supposed to know!" he thought.
"Theodon Matilda, answer me!" she yelled again.
Theodon looked down and gave no answer.
Rincy got up, and ran to him, caught hold of his collar,and shook him fiercely.
"Theodon Matilda!", she cried,"Tell me now, tell me" she cried, as she slid down to his feet and cried profusely.
Theodon was out of his wits.
He held her shoulder, and picked her up. He enveloped her in a tight hug, as she continued to weep.
"Little coz, Rin, sweet Rin, do not cry..." he tried to comfort her, but in vain.
He made her sit on her seat, and gave her some water.
"Tell me, Theodon, please. It's important for me to know. I deserve to know!" she argued, as tears rolled down her pink cheeks .
"Yes, little Rin. What you heard, is the truth. Aunt was intentionally set ablaze." he said, still trying to calm her down.
"And what were you all doing? Uncle Raymond?Was no one around?" she asked, furiously.
"No. That's what I've been telling you. Aunt never agreed to keep guards. She thought she was doing it right, but she wasn't. She too had several enemies..."
"And who did this to her?"she yelled.

Theodon stood silently, his head held low.
"Who murdered my mother Theodon?" asked Rincy, in a soft sarcastic tone.
"Theodon Matilda! Who murdered my mother?" she yelled, never as loud before.

And spontaneously came the answer.
"Portria Jaccob!", he yelled back.


Sometimes, there are a lot of secrets. Some we want to know, while others we deserve to know. It will always be better to be hurt by the truth, than be comforted by a lie. 'Cause, a lie doesn't come alone. Like a hover of crows, who bring along fellow crows for supper, a lie comes along with several more. 
John Green correctly quotes,
"The thing about pain, is that, it demands to be felt."

So, shall Rincy Matilda, feel the pain. The agony of her mother's loss.
But was it really Murder?

The Queen of Isles: Blaze

The sky was bare. Dark and cloudless. 

Tranquility before a storm?

The small stars twinkled in the distance.It's incredibly ironic, that we call stars small. Science proves that they are much much larger than our very Earth or even the Blazing sun. Yet, stars are small. At least, that's what we teach our children in nursery. Twinkle, Twinkle little star.

Stars will remain small to us. 'Cause that's how they appear to us.
And so will problems.

"I am indeed proud of you Cynthia. Your efforts are much appreciated" praised Rincy.
Cynthia smiled and curtsied. Then she left Rincy's room.
Rincy picked up the file.
In two minds, she was. 
"Should I open it?" she thought.
"I am strong. And I'm Queen. I should be ready to face any kind of information, however personal it may be." she decided.


"So, how's it going Portria Jaccob?" teased Theodon.
Portria grinned from ear to ear.
"You seem happy! Nice." he remarked.
"I'm amazed how you won't stop stabbing my back Theodon" she said distastefully.
"Why, I can stab you right in your chest, no need of going behind your back, dear Portria."
"Very well, that's anyway what your doing. I know you dislike me..." she began only to be interrupted.
"Me disliking you is a complete understatement Portria." said Theodon, in his usual stylish voice.
Portria realized that it was a complete waste, trying to speak with him.
She filled her bag, and left for the Headquarters of Rhue.
"Theodon Matilda!" called Rincy, from across the hallway.
"Yes, My Queen!" he said walking to her.
"If your done with torturing Portria..."
"Me? I don't torture Portria!" he argued, like he were a small kid caught stealing candy.
"Of course, you leave not one opportunity to. But siding that, get me today's schedule, and be fast." she ordered.
"I already have it, Your Grace. In fact, I have the entire week's timetable, and here it goes." Theodon handed over the folder with Rincy's schedule for the week.
"Great." she said with a wry smile, tore the sheets into two, and handed it to him in his hand.
Theodon stared at her blankly.
"Wondering why?I'll explain. You won't decide my schedule henceforth." saying so, she left for the Cabinet's Board meeting.


"Good Morn!" greeted Rincy, as she sat down at the head of the table.
"Greetings, Your Grace. We have some important affairs on the agenda." began Reene Duke, in-charge of Home Affairs.
"Yes, get started."
" Edward Chase is going to come to Lea, this week. He, I'm sure you know, is the CEO of the Marks, our supply to the military forces."said Lann Grey.
" Good. What are his deals of late?" asked Rincy.
Sir Lann Grey produced a file, with supplies, quotations and other related details.

The Board meeting went on for over an hour, minus Theodon.

When the meeting was over, Rincy walked out, to face a stern faced Theodon,arms folded, legs crossed leaning against the wall, staring right into her eyes.
"So, what are you up to, now?" she asked sarcastically, as she walked into her office , with Theodon following her.
"What do you think your doing little Rin?" he asked
"I'm not little coz" she corrected.
"Umm... you are. You don't have even the slightest idea of how to rule a nation. And you want me to stay away?" 
"Not literally. I just don't want you to schedule my timetable!" she said, as if it weren't a big deal, like nothing implied from what she did.
"I know you think I'm evil, and that I want to usurp the throne..." began Theodon.
"Nah..." she said playfully," I know you want to usurp it." she added sternly.
Theodon laughed.
Rincy sat down, on her chair, and looked through files.
Theodon banged shut the files on her desk, with his right hand.
Rincy was shocked.
"What kind of mis behaviour is this Theodon Matilda?" she asked ,astonished.
"Your mother thought too, that she was doing it right. There is a huge list of people waiting to overthrow you, and I definitely don't want to add to the list."
"You don't speak of my mother like that!" Rincy began to fume.
"You don't insult her okay, at least not now, that she's dead!"
"I'm not insulting her, I'm just telling you what I know of her, okay!" he yelled back
"What do you even know of her Theo..."
"I know that she didn't die by accident!!!" he yelled, at the top of his voice.
"She was intentionally set ablaze !!!"


© Srinidhi Iyengar

The Queen of Isles : Ten Days

"Pack your bags and leave for Ream. You needn't stay here henceforth."said Theodon, with a wry smile.
"Ream? Why?"asked Portria, baffled.
"Of course, because you had been shifted to the headquarters, and you haven't left as yet."

"Portria isn't going anywhere Theodon."said Rincy.
Theodon turned around to face Rincy, sword tucked beneath her belt, and Cynthia behind her.
"Portria Jaccob, I give you one last chance to prove yourself faithful to the throne. Make utmost use of this chance to mend all that you broke, cause one small mistake will cost you too much" declared Rincy.

Portria's eyes gleamed with joy.
"Thank you so much, Your Grace"she said and curtsied.
Theodon eyed Rincy crossly.

"So do I rejoin as your assistant and manager?"she asked, her head, now held high.
Theodon's eyes widened.
Rincy laughed.
"Assistant and Manager?"she asked.
The room fell silent, as the tone in her voice changed.
"You were like family Portria, I trusted you. I gave you a place in my heart. But in turn, you broke them. You lied to me. You lied to the throne "she said fiercely.
Rincy's eyes were wide, and almost blood red.
Beads of perspiration covered her fore head.
Her left hand stiffened into a fist, as the other held onto the sword.

Theodon was shocked. Shocked to see such a side of Rincy.
Portria began to weep, and fell on her knees.
"I beg for forgiveness, Rincy. I didn't mean to hurt you. You were more than family to me sweet Rincy. The circumstances are to be blamed, that I have been portrayed in bad light."she cried.

Theodon began to speak, when Rincy lifted her hand, asking him to stop, and keep away.
"I am giving you one last chance Portria. You'll stay here in the palace, but will work in Rhue "she announced.
Portria was utterly mystified by Rincy's announcement.
"But I have been posted at the headquarters, which is in Ream. How can I..."
"I have brought the Headquarters of Rhue, to Lea. "she declared.
Theodon's face turned expressionless again. One couldn't make out whether he was happy or annoyed by this decision.

Portria got up and advanced towards Rincy, but Rincy turned away, and walked out of the room, with Cynthia following her.
"Your work begins from tomorrow"she said, as she left.

Rincy entered her room, and sat down on her bed.
"Cynthia, I still want you to keep a watch on Portria. Her lies shall be unveiled within the next ten days, and this is Rincy Matilda's promise."she decided.

Cynthia bowed, and left her room.
Theodon came in, and stood right in front of Rincy, just as expressionless as ever.

"Now what, coz?"she asked, irritated.
"Nothing. Just came to tell you, we need to go to the Royal Library in an hour. I'll be back to pick you."saying so, he left too, shutting the door behind him, gently.

Rincy frowned.
She had encountered a lot of drama that day.
Firstly, there was a sword, ready to slit her throat, and let a waterfall of blood flow out. Secondly, she found out that Portria has lied about a lot of things. A LOT OF THINGS. Now that she has decided to unmask Portria, Theodon is behaving awkwardly. 

She laid down on her bed, and stared at the white ceiling.
"I so wish, mother was here" 

The next ten days shall be the most difficult days, in Rincy's and Portria's life. While one has to assess, the other has to pass a test. A test, that shall decide future relations. A test that shall prove one, innocent or guilty. 

Just ten days.


© Srinidhi Iyengar

The Queen of Isles: Lies

Rincy gasped for breath, as Edmund tightened the sword's grip against her neck. He caught hold of her hands and held them with his left, behind her back. 
Rincy looked left and right.
The world around her seemed to drown, her head pounded with pain, blood rushed into her face, as she turned pink with fear.
Within a second, Edmund released his grip on her, and she fell to the ground.
Rincy looked up, in utter shock, still gasping for breath, trying to understand what just happened.
"Rincy Matilda, you are indeed a poor swordsman. Do not judge your opponent by their looks. A bee is a small invertebrate, but it's sting can be as fatal as death itself." said Edmund, holding his hand out to Rincy.
"You were going to kill me?" she asked, aghast.
"Nay, You think me a fool? Kill the Queen, and get hanged? That's not what interests me. This encounter was your first lesson." he laughed
Rincy stumbled and stood up, still relieving from after shock.
"You weren't paying attention to your motive. Your motive was to strike me. Instead, you were busy thinking about your moves. In sword fighting, there is no time to think. You have to strike and defend at the fall of a feather. "
"He's right! I was thinking, not acting!" she thought.
"And, your biggest mistake. You were listening to what your opponent was saying. Speech is for diversion, and you got diverted. Pay attention, do you get that young girl?" he said authoritatively.
Rincy held her head low, and nodded,"Pardon me Sir, I will pay more attention."
"Very well." he declared.

The next hour, Edmund taught Rincy how to strike. He taught her how to hold the sword correctly while striking. 
From Edmund, Rincy learned that, the way one holds the sword, reveals their mental state, and this knowledge helps deduce the opponent's next move.

Rincy and Edmund practiced again and again. 
He attacked, and she defended, trying to stay upright for longer than before.
Her clothes were drenched in sweat, and her arms ached. Her calf muscles burned with the strain, as she struggled to continue standing.

"Rincy Matilda, it was good training today. You show me good spirit, and I am glad to coach you" said Edmund Calvin, and he bowed before her, holding his sword horizontally away from himself.

Rincy panted, and held her sword, in a similar manner and bowed before her teacher.
"It's an honour to learn from you Sir, I hope to fulfill your expectations..."
"Nay, I want to to exceed them." he interrupted.

A few minutes later, Theodon walked in, and lead the duo for lunch.

"Hey! What are you doing ...?" began Raymond.
"Father", interrupted Theodon.
Rincy saw Theodon glare at Raymond.
"This is Edmund Calvin. Rincy's new sword master." introduced Theodon.
"Greetings Sir" wished Edmund as he shook hands with Raymond, and smiled.
Raymond smiled awkwardly, and looked from Theodon to Elain to Edmund.

"You know him from before? Uncle?" asked Rincy, seating herself at the head of the table.
"Nay. Not at all!" he blurted.
Rincy eyed him questioningly.
"I mean, he looks like my pal from Ream, who was a childhood mate" he clarified.
"Well, Sir, please take a seat, and join us for lunch."

Portria walked in to find Edmund seated next to Rincy, on her seat.
She walked up to Edmund and glared at him.
"Find yourself another seat Portria Jaccob" ordered Theodon.
Portria's glare shifted from Edmund to Theodon.
Edmund smiled sheepishly.
Portira grabbed a seat next to Edmund, and sat down.
For a second, Portria and Rincy made eye contact.
Portria's eyes filled with guilt and sadness.
Rincy's, filled with anger and anguish.
They broke contact and focused on their food.

Edmund and Raymond got along well, discussing Royal politics, tactics, history and a lot more.
Rincy got up and left after finishing her food, to eliminate the awkwardness that surrounded the table.
Portria noticed Rincy's reluctance in speaking with her.
"How do I regain her confidence and trust?" she thought, as she put a piece of chopped broccoli into her mouth.


"Your Grace!" Cynthia blocked Rincy's path to her room.
"What is it Cynthia, I am very weary now. Can this hold on for a while?" she asked in a tired and coarse voice.

Cynthia looked left and right.
"Portria Jaccob is not married, Your Grace!" she blurted.

Rincy was aghast. All the pain in her limbs and all the pounding in her head vanished.
She looked at Cynthia blank faced.
"My Queen, you hear me right. I have been tracking her off late, just like you told me to . She hasn't met anyone in person, but has made several calls to a man named Ceasar Flickerman." 

The little colour left, drained off Rincy's tired face, as she tried to gather the pieces of her broken heart, mind and trust.

When one lie leads to another, all it makes is a mountain out of a mole hill. Portria's lie lost her, Rincy's trust, faith and love. The same Rincy, who once considered her mother-like and family, now has put people behind her to track her activities.

It won't be long before Rincy gets tangled in this humongous web, unless she thinks and acts carefully.

© Srinidhi Iyengar

The Queen of Isles: The Single Combat

"Don't you think you must become more experienced before you change the effect of command from Sir Lann Grey to yourself? You should have waited, instead of making a hasty decision." advised Theodon.

Rincy glanced at Theodon from the corner of her eye.
Theodon immediately fell silent. But they continued walking down the hallway.
He handed her the file that held the qualifications of her new sword-master.

"I think you should know more about him, before your training begins." he said.
Rincy flipped the papers in the file.

Name: Edmund Calvin
Age: 44 years
Gender: Male
Skills: Sword fight, archery

Then, she stumbled across his picture, but before she could even get a glimpse of it, Theodon snatched the file from her. Rincy looked up in shock. "We have reached..." said Theodon, calm as ever.
Rincy fumed, and pushed the door open.
The training center was huge with several sections.
To the right was the camouflage section. The archery section was in the far end.
In the center of the huge hall, stood Edmund Calvin. Her new sword-master.
He was tall and fair, wore a thin stache over his brown lips. His eyes were light brown, and hair was dark. His smile was soothing. Familiar, yet unfamiliar.
Rincy walked up to him and bowed before him.
"Nay, you're the Queen" he said and bowed before her.
"But now, you are my teacher, and your position is much higher than any out here." she said confidently.
Edmund seemed impressed.
"Edmund Calvin, it's your responsibility, to teach the Queen sword-fight and other skills, that she may need for self defense"ordered Theodon.
Rincy turned to Theodon, facing her back to Edmund. " Sir, your position is much higher than any out here, which includes the Queen's hand, and the Queen herself" she said turning her head sideways, to see Edmund.

Edmund grinned, and his lips twitched, as Theodon eyed Rincy furiously.
"Well, then I shall leave. I'll be back by 1:00. Till then, you're in Edmund's hands." saying so, he left the training center.
Rincy turned back to Edmund," Apologies Sir Calvin, for Theodon's behaviour. He does respect you, as much as I do, and even more, as you are the Queen's teacher. Please guide me, and help me become strong and physically independent, so that I can prove better than what I must be." she said and bowed again.

"It will be a pleasure to teach you young girl, and I shall render all that's within my scope." he said and smiled.

"Let me have a look at your sword." he said 
Rincy unbelted the sword from her waist and handed it over to her teacher.
Edmund held the sword, and unsheathed it. The blade shined, as he swung it in the air swiftly. Rincy was in awe. Edmund was not only a good swordsman, but also very smart.
He handed it over to Rincy and said," She will protect you, as long as she remains your slave. And it is my duty to teach you how to lead this slave."

"Have you any experience in sword fight?" asked Edmund, removing his sword from his belt.
"Yes Sir, in the royal training, while I was a kid, I was taught to swing the sword, but it has been quite a while since I have done that." she confessed.

With lightning speed,Edmund drew his sword from the sheath and leapt back holding his sword upright at Rincy. "Attack young girl" he ordered.
Rincy was taken by surprise.
"Attack, even before I have learnt anything? Maybe, he's trying to test my skills" she thought, and held her sword tightly.
Within a flash second, Rincy attacked Edmund, with all her force, and he held his sword against hers, in defense.
"Edmund might be old, but he is still very strong." she thought, as she tried to attack him again. Within the bat of an eye, Edmund hurled Rincy's sword off her hands, and onto the floor at a distance. Then he held his, against her throat.
Rincy gasped for breath, as she was left defenseless, and a sword against a throat.

"This wasn't as difficult as I thought, my Queen. But now, you have to die." he said in a coarse voice.
Rincy's eyes widened with shock.
"He's here to kill me! He isn't my teacher, that's why Theodon didn't let me see the photograph!" she thought as the truth dawned upon her.

Rincy Matilda, the Queen of Isles, Ruler to the nation of Westerhall, had a sword against her throat, and nothing in hand to defend herself.

© Srinidhi Iyengar

The Queen of Isles: The Cabinet

The sky was mild blue. The nascent sun spread an orange-yellow shade across the vault of heaven. Wispy white clouds floated mid air like froth on water.

Rincy fastened her sword onto her belt.

"No more excuses, no more compromises and no more sympathies." she promised.

Within a minute of calling, Cynthia was at Rincy's door.

"Please come in Cynthia" said Rincy.

Cynthia walked in and curtsied, holding her head low.

"Of what use, may this servant be to the Queen?"she asked, still holding her head low.

Rincy walked up to her, and lifted her chin, so that their eyes met.

"Your respect must be in your heart. No need to look down. It's only the guilty who do that."

Cynthia smiled pleasantly.

"Now coming to the point. You are a faithful worker here. I need you to do me a favour."

"Just command,Your Grace", she said

"I need you to keep a close eye on Portria Jaccob. Track her phone calls, her whereabouts, everything. I need you to alert me every time she meets someone. It happens that when a tree falls in a forest, it does make a sound. I need to find her truth and this needs to be done carefully. Cause Portria isn't a vacuous woman. Can you do this?" asked Rincy.

"Yes, Your Grace." nodded Cynthia.

"Thank you. You may leave now." 

Cynthia walked out of Rincy's room and went right, to the kitchen.

Theodon stood at the left end of the hallway, grinning from ear to ear.

"Smart move." he thought.

Rincy came out, and saw Theodon.

"Schedule." she demanded.

"First, we attend the Cabinet meet, that was being postponed for a while now. We have your sword-master to  meet. And after lunch, the rest of the day is to be spent at the Royal Library." he announced.

"Very well. Let's head to the meet."

"It has been quiet unfortunate, that we've needed to keep this meeting on hold for a while. But now, there shan't be further delays." began Rincy.

"Let's begin with your introductions."

Rincy sat down at the head of the long table for seven. Surrounding her were five cabinet ministers and Theodon.

"Theodon Matilda, in-charge of Internal affairs of the cabinet, and hand to the Queen. Fours years experience, in the Council's affairs."

"Renee Duke, in-charge of Home affairs. Seven years experience in the Council's affairs and two years at the Cabinet."

"Aaidan Cruze, in-charge of Transportation and Communication. Twelve years of experience at the council, and five at the cabinet."

"Syon Leer, in-charge of Finance, seven years of experience at the Cabinet."

Rincy's eyes widened."Seven years at the cabinet? Didn't you serve the Council before?" she asked.

"It would have been an honour, Your Grace." he said and smiled.

"Something's fishy!"thought Rincy, as she made a mental note to check on Syon Leer.

"Fae Matney, Minister of Corporate Affairs, six years of experience at the Council."

Rincy smiled at her pleasantly. A feeling of warmth radiated from her. She felt familiar, yet unfamiliar.

"Lann Grey, Minister of Defence and Head Commander in Chief of the Army. Fourteen years experience at the Council, and two at the Cabinet."

Rincy glanced at everyone, once again. She tried to recall their names, but it would take time.

"It's great. You all are much more experienced and qualified than me. I hope to bring out your potentials, so as to serve the throne, and the country of Westerhall." she said, and glared at Theodon.

Theodon pulled out a file from the shelf and placed it on Rincy's desk.

Rincy opened it carefully. 

"What is this Theodon?" she asked.

"The paperwork that you'll need to sign today."

" What paperwork?" she asked, eyeing him suspiciously.

The ministers at the cabinet giggled.

Rincy glared at them, and they put on a serious facade.

"I need you to explain to me." she emphasized.

"Your Grace, we need your signature to pass on some deals, and sanction some money for various sectors. They were put on hold due to your absence." Saying so, he opened pages and handed her a pen.

" I will go through it."

" We have little time. These deals are essential, and have already been delayed. More over, they have been happening since Late Queen Raechel's reign..." began Aaidan Cruz.

" I will still go through them. I have a schedule set up for all of you. We shall meet the day after, with detailed reports from last month. I shall personally monitor each field." commanded Rincy.

Renee Duke frowned and glared at Theodon.

"Is there a problem Renee?" asked Rincy.

"Not big enough to require your attention" she taunted.

Rincy glared at her, uneasily.She dismissed the meeting, and was about to leave, when Lann Grey walked up to her.

"Your Grace, you're as old as the number of years we have served the throne. It would be pleasant, to have you sit on the throne, and watch us do the job. A newly hatched chick is better off in her nest, than trying to fly in the wild sky" he scoffed at her.

"I appreciate your concern for me, Lann Grey. But I have my own ways." she smiled sheepishly.

"Theodon, please arrange for a legal change in command from Sir Lann Grey to the Queen. Hence forth, it will be the Queen who will be the sole Head Commander in Chief to the Royal army." she declared, as Theodon watched on.

Lann Grey was out of his wits.

"This won't be a clever decision, my Queen" he snorted.

"I'll make sure it is no less than perfect" saying so, she walked out of the room.

© Srinidhi Iyengar

The Queen of Isles: Ra'eesah

There was heavy pounding at the back of her head, as she slowly opened her eyes.
The world seemed upside down.
Rincy slowly rose up and sat against the back of her bed.
Portira stood to her left, her gaze fixed on Rincy.
Theodon stood to her right, arms folded.

"What happened? And why is there so much pain in my head?" cried Rincy.
Portria sat down next to Rincy, and calmed her.
"You hit yourself little girl. You'll get better." she comforted her.
"But, that's your side of the story, Portria. I would like to know Rincy's or the true side of the story." Theodon's lips twitched, and it appeared as though he was casting swears at Portria. Portria's eyes widened, but she chose to ignore Theodon.
"I don't remember,I was speaking to Portria... and then... I asked her some questions..." began Rincy.
Portria tried to brush away the topic, but Theodon wouldn't let that happen.
"Try and think, Rin. We need to know if someone hit you. Cause that's what it appears to me."
Rincy tried to focus and remember, but it just increased the throbbing in her head. Her head ached, and her mind couldn't concentrate. Everything felt hazy. The only thing she felt was pain.
Theodon had almost given up, when Rincy recalled,"Wait a minute! Portria, you're married,right?"
This question drove the living daylights out of Portria. 
She looked from Theodon to Rincy and back to Theodon, who had an expression of defeat and victory on his face.
"Rincy Matilda, you need to rest. Else..."
"No. Tell me. If I recall correctly, you said Ceasar Flickerman, didn't you?"
Portria was baffled.
"Excuse me." saying so, Portria left Rincy's room.
Theodon sat down next to Rincy. Rincy was still confused.
"I think someone hit me from the back. It can't be Portria, cause she was in front of me, but who else could it be?" asked Rincy.
Theodon comforted Rincy and asked her to rest.

" Queen of Isles, we must make sure, this doesn't happen again. We cannot let you without guards, just like your mother did. I will arrange for the best squad of bodyguards for you right away. Also, you have to master self defense. You know how to swing your sword?"he asked.
"Umm... kind off, I had learned to, during the training. But this one's heavy."she said looking around for her sword.
"Very well. You can rest now. And once you're better, your training for sword fight begins." declared Theodon.

As he turned to leave, Rincy caught hold of his hand.
Theodon turned around to face his misty-eyed cousin.
"Thank you Theodon. Maybe, I must trust you a little more."
"Trust no one Rincy. But why thank me?", he asked jokingly.
"Cause you have been an eye opener. Portria seems to be hiding a lot from me. I can't trust her now." she said.
"I still need answers to a lot of questions." she mumbled.
"I'll give you all answers, but now you need to rest. Don't think too much, I'll do that for you." saying so, Theodon left the room.
Rincy looked around for her sword.
It was placed gracefully on the side table.
She picked it up, unsheathed it, and held it in her right hand.
"And from now, I shall guard myself. Expect no one to be truthful. Trust none but my conscience, and prove a better Queen to this nation" she vowed.


"I didn't expect you to be this careless Theodon." she reprimanded.
"I am sorry, I didn't expect this coming. It was difficult at first, to get her recall anything. But then she could tell." he apologized
"You know very well, that leaving her under your protection was a decision to honour you in itself." she added authoritatively.
"I assure you, this won't happen again. I have made some arrangement, and I'm sure they will prove sufficient to ensure her safety." said Theodon.
"I trust you, boy. Keep me updated." saying so, she hung up.

Worry lines covered her forehead, adding to those, tarnished by age.
Her eyes were vivid , iris brown.
Her nose, sharp. Ears blunt. Her long locks fell below her back as she turned to face the mirror.
The chain with the locket M rested on her neck, as new as always.
She lifted her hand and ran it across her right cheek. It marked the reason for her keeping out of sight. It couldn't be concealed in anyway. The burn marks ran from her right cheek to her right arm, and parts of her leg.

If Rincy Matilda had a lot of dark secrets to unveil, Ra'eesah was one of them.

© Srinidhi Iyengar

The Queen of Isles: Trust

Portria walked up the stairs and stood outside Rincy's room.
She took a deep breath and sighed.
"The day has come, when I'll have to tell Rincy, the truth.Should I?"
Her body shuddered at the thought of how she would be able to face Rincy.

Just as she was about to knock the door, it flung open inwards.
Rincy stood there, dressed up and ready for the day.
Her eyes widened on seeing Portria.
"I have to test Portria. It feels so bad, I can't even trust her anymore, without being sure!" she contemplated.

"Portria Jaccob, you will have to shift to Ream by tonight. Your new job awaits you there." said she.
Portria smiled unpleasantly.
"Also, I want answers before you leave."added Rincy.
"How much time do you have to spare before your day begins as Queen?" she asked, hoping against hope, that she would a get at least and hour.
"You have twenty minutes to explain to me, all that has been going around, and why you've been away last night." she said authoritatively.

"Rincy dear, the thing is, Theodon and Raymond are against the throne. For over half a decade, there had been cold war between your mother and Raymond. Raymond used to hold an essential position in the cabinet. But when he was found guilty, your mother had dismissed him from all official matters." Portria paused, to take a breath and observe Rincy's reaction.
Rincy remained as calm as never before. She didn't look away, nor shed a tear.
"How come is Rincy so calm? I just told her, an integral truth about her family!" wondered Portria.
"Ever since then, he has tried to bring down the throne. To end the rule of a Queen and bring in a new King who will have more powers and control. He has always eyed the throne. I have heard, he even went against Raechel, objecting your mother's coronation despite the fact that Raechel was on her death bed."

Rincy glared at Portria.
Portria felt like a mouse under an eagle's keen eye.

"And so, what's happening now?What you said is history. I am interested in current affairs." said Rincy,trying to read Portria's face.

"Now that your mother isn't there, Raymond and Theodon are targeting you. That's how Raymond thinks he can get Theodon into the cabinet and overthrow you." she added.
"Portria," said Rincy calmly," if they had to do that, they could have done it as soon as my mother passed away. Theodon could have been crowned King. He is anyway more skilled and knowledgeable than me. But that's something that didn't happen. Why will he try now, when it was easier before?" asked Rincy inquisitively.

Portria was dumbfounded. She hadn't expected Rincy to counter-question her this way.
Her lips twitched, and she said, what she probably shouldn't have.
" The fact that your mother is dead is in itself a sign. A Queen is heavily guarded and cannot encounter an accident like what your mother did. A Queen cannot burn alive with several guards around unless it has been planned."

Rincy was baffled by what Portria had just unveiled.
The world around her seemed to turn hazy.
Gathering some strength, she decided,"I have to be strong. This doesn't have to be true."

"My mother was burned intentionally? It wasn't an accident?" asked she, gathering the courage to digest what she just heard.
"That's my estimation. Cause your mother was suspicious of Raymond's activities, and I don't doubt her sixth sense." added Portria.
A tear glistened like pure diamond as it trickled down Rincy's cheeks.
" I hope I ain't being mislead Portria Jaccob, cause if I am, the price you'll pay will be heavy" she said with disgust.

"Last night, Theodon said that I am to be Queen. Today Portria says that he's planning against me. Also Theodon was saying something against Portria. Oh God! This is a complete mess. How am I going to handle this, when all they are targeting is my late mother?" whined Rincy to herself.
Wiping away her tear, and regaining her strong posture, Rincy asked," And what about last night? You warned me against Ceasar Flickerman, and left without an answer."
" Yes. It all has reasons. You know that Raymond and Theodon have planned to send me away from you, so that they can easily target you. And I can't leave this palace under any condition." she reasoned.
Rincy's eyes narrowed at Portria's confession. 

"So, I had to meet up with someone, so that i can cancel my trip to Ream in some way or the other. I have to be here, with you." she added, placing her palm against Rincy's tear-dried cheek.
Rincy smiled faintly.
"You don't have to worry about that Portria, I have taken care of that. I can't cancel your promotion, because it has been made in front of a huge crowd. But I can sustain you from leaving."
Portria's eyes beamed with joy.
She hugged Rincy warmly, and Rincy hugged her back.
"I am bringing Rhue Headquarters here."
Portria jerked away, surprised.
Rincy giggled, and said," For now, Theodon shall handle my matters, but you will stay close."
Portria nodded, and turned to leave.
"How old are you Portria?"asked Rincy, out of the blue.
Portria turned, a little surprised and answered," Thirty seven and a few months, but why do you ask?"
"I wondered, how come you ain't married yet!" said Rincy carelessly. 
Portria's face turned pale.
Rincy fastened her sword to her belt, and shut the door behind her.
She turned to leave, when Portria suddenly added," I am."

Rincy turned around to face a colour-drained Portria.
"Oh! I never knew! To whom?" she asked astonished.

"Cesar Flickerman" is all she heard, before a strong blow hit the back of her head.

© Srinidhi Iyengar

The Queen of Isles: M for Matilda

She sat by her window sill and fixed her gaze on the dusky moon.

"Mother, I can't escape all this now." she said.
She gripped the handle of the royal sword tightly.
"It is by your guidance, that I shall hence make decisions. You will guide me, from where ever you are." she said standing up, eyes still fixed on the gaping full moon.

"Of course she will Rin." came Theodon's voice from behind.
Rincy turned around to face Theodon. He had an old thick book in hand.
"I am in no mood for argument Coz..." said Rincy, averting her gaze.
" Nor am I. It's been a long day for you, and me." he said, as he held Rincy's hand and led her to the sofa.
They both sat down, as Thoedon placed the book on the table in front of them.

'M for Matilda' read it's title.
Rincy's memories rushed back to her grandmother's words. 
"That's what she had said, while she gave me the chain!" she exclaimed.
"I know." said Theodon calmly.
"What? How do you know? And who am I talking about?" she asked, checking if Theodon actually knew.
"Gran Raechel was a beautiful soul."
Rincy was shocked." Theodon knows! How is this possible? How can he know what Gran told me? He wasn't around?" she thought.

"I know little Rin, you have several questions, and a lot of dislike for me...", began Theodon.
"Yes.", cut Rincy sharply.
Theodon looked up from the book, and smiled softly at her, in his usual way.
"I have explanations. Some, which I can give you now, and some, that will be revealed to you by time." he said.
Rincy picked up the book, and placed on her lap.
She ran her hands over the cover. It was old and coarse, but it still preserved the essentials.
She opened the book into some middle page and stared into her own face.
And beneath her picture, it read 'Rincy Matilda, Queen of Isles'.
The next page had a picture of her sword. The Royal Sword.
Subsequent pages were empty.

Rincy was confused.
"By the look of this book, it tells me it's ancient. And the ink is unique and old too.How can a picture of me, and my sword be there?"
"Exactly, the point. You aren't made queen, because your mother's isn't anymore. You were chosen queen long back.Even before our Gran took position." he said.
Rincy was baffled.
"This ain't possible, Theodon. Don't spin tales and deceive me.", she argued.
"I have better work to do Rincy than mislead you. I am telling you the truth."
"This book is filled by a royal priest. It was one of them, who wrote down your fate. You were chosen.And that chain with the 'M' locket is give to the chosen one."
"Why me?", she asked.
"Did you notice, all subsequent pages are empty?" he asked.
Rincy nodded, and flipped the pages.
Empty.
"That's a sign. This book has been passed on from one Royal priest, to the next, in generation. But it continues to remain empty." he added.
"Why so? And what sign?" Rincy asked impatiently.
"You are the Queen who will achieve heights. You are the Queen who will make the difference. You are the Queen who will change what's wrong and mark history." he said with great strength in his voice.
"I am nineteen, Coz. What can you expect of me?"
"Lots. You have the strength to go against evil, and fight for the right.A lot still remains hidden about your capabilities." he said.
The word 'evil' hit Rincy hard. "So long, you were 'evil' to me", she thought.

"What are you trying to tell me? I don't understand Theodon." confessed Rincy.
"The Queen, is always envied by many. Many who want to take her place, many who want to live her life. There are many such, who are willing to over throw you Rincy, and I want to guard you from them, at least till you can do it yourself." he said.
"And what will you get from this? I don't think you do things without benefits!", she mocked.

" I have a promise to keep Rincy Matilda. I can't let you lose, even if I wanted to, because a man who doesn't keep his word, is a man of no honour. And I am a man of honour." he announced.

"The man in my nightmare!!! He said the same thing too! How this possible? Was it Theodon? Did he save me in the dream?" Rincy's memory flooded with broken scenes from her nightmare.

"And to whom have you made this promise, may I ask?"

"To one who I am devoted with my life and soul."

"Don't twist words, and give me direct answers."

"Time will tell you sweet Coz. But for now, you have to trust me."

"I can't." she said bluntly.

Theodon looked shocked. For the first time, Rincy noticed, that Theodon could adorn another expression, apart from being calm.

"Why? What have I done that makes you doubt me?" he asked, coming back from shock.

"Everything. You shifted Portria to Ream, and without even consulting me." she barked.

"Portria is not someone who you should like to keep. She has a striking history of..." he began.

"I care little about her past Theodon. She has served my mother for over a decade now, and she continues to remain loyal to me. She guides me, teaches me, and is like a mother figure to me. I wouldn't like to listen to much against her." 

Something made Rincy defend Portria. She may have lied to Rincy, or hidden things from her, but she still loved Portria. 

"Right. Mother figure. All I can say is, be careful and watchful Rincy. She isn't as sparkling as she appears to be." he warned.

"From tomorrow, I will assist you in all official matters. We have an agenda, and I'll give it to you." he said, turning to leave.

"Portria handles my agenda." added Rincy.

"Well, not anymore! Portria Jaccob will shift to the Headquarters of Rhue by tomorrow evening." saying so, he left the room.

"Just as you say Theodon Matilda. Portria will shift to the Headquarters of Rhue, not in Ream ,but in Lea. I will get the Headquarters shifted to our very own capital city." she grinned. 

© Srinidhi Iyengar

The Queen of Isles: The Game Begins

Rincy fumed.
Portria had a lot of things to explain.
The pot of ash.

The warning about Ceasar Flickerman.

This new promotion.

Something she was going to say,just before Louis intervened.

Rincy stood up, and fastened her grip on the sword.

"I am going to first find Portria, and ask for explanations. Else I will get intertwined in this political mess,that is waiting to engulf and drown me."she thought.

Just as she was about to leave, James Hemsworth came to her.

The man was charming and his eyes dazzled. His smile , deceitful. His face could easily hide his true age. 

He walked up to Rincy and greeted her.

"James Hemsworth, Your Grace. We have met before, if you can recollect", he said with a smile.

"I am not a woman of poor memory Sir." she said and tried to leave, but he blocked her path.

"Aye, you ain't an ordinary woman either, my Queen. And please call me James. It's a beautiful party, and it would go waste without a dance with the Queen."he said putting his hand forth, asking for hers.

Rincy hesitated at first, but then gave in. She placed the sword on the throne, and walked down the Diaz, with James.

The music turned up, and couples began to speed up.

They danced to the music with much swiftness.

Rincy knew how to dance in a ball, but not at that speed. It was a part of her training, as a royal kid.

James held Rincy's right hand and put his left around her waist. Rincy placed her right hand over his left shoulder, and they joined the dance.

James helped her get accustomed to the steps and the beats.

Slowly, couples withdrew to stop and see the Queen's dance, until it was just Rincy and James on the dance floor.

The crowd hooted and cheered, as Rincy matched James's swiftness, and he twirled her around.

After a good lot of fifteen minutes, Rincy withdrew, asking to leave.

James griped her, and bent down towards her ear.

"The game begins, young lady, reaching its height , at mid night. And at 12 o'clock, when the masquerade ends, masks shall fall, and the truth will be revealed."he whispered.

Leaving Rincy bewildered, James Hemsworth left the ballroom.

"So it's a game!" she mocked.

"I ain't going to play along, James Hemsworth. I am the Queen, and the Queen gives path to the game. It's vital to make impact while we play, for, when the game ends, the pawn and the king go back into the same box."

"And now, before someone else gets hold of me, I must leave."she thought.

She picked up her sword and left the ballroom from the side door.

"Shut up Effie!"snarled Raymond.

Rincy stopped by their door.

"Listen Raymond, It wasn't a good option to just throw her out of the city! That would lead to rise in suspicion. And at this stage, we cannot fall."she reasoned.

"Promotion? Was that the solution? What will you answer Mr Gladsmith? And Sir?"he asked.

"It's enough father."interfered Theodon.

"Mother is right. We must instead thank her for her spontaneity."he said.

"Now I'll handle this matter. The headquarters of Rhue is at Ream, and that city is leagues away. We can get Portria shifted there. That shouldn't be a problem."saying so, Theodon left the room.

Rincy hid behind the pillar.

"So even Theodon didn't know of this promotion. Then how could he maintain his calm? As if, everything were going as per plan?"she questioned.

"This trio is working for some Sir, and I bet he must be leading the oppositions to the throne.I have to find Portria. But now, I don't even know if Portria is trustworthy. She didn't tell me about those papers"

Rincy walked down the hallway and head to the council library. On her way to the library, she overheard Portria arguing profusely with someone.

Rincy tried to peer through the key hole, but that wasn't enough to get a glimpse of the other person in the room.

"I am not going to Ream, do you get that? It might be a huge pay cheque, but I ain't sworn for money.And you now that much better than anyone. I have made enough mistakes, which have begun to haunt me. And I won't leave the palace at any cost." saying so, Portria stormed outside the room.

Rincy followed Portria, and then over took her.

She stopped Portria, and eyed her suspiciously.

"What is wrong with you Rincy? Give me way. I have no time."she argued, trying to make her way out. But Rincy held her arms apart, blocking her way.

"What do you want young woman?"she asked in a hoarse voice.

"Answers."demanded Rincy.

"What answers?"asked Portria, acting like she didn't understand.

"You know very well what I want Portria."

"I don't have time..."

"Make time."she commanded.

"Very well. If you want answers, you will get them. I swear by my honour, to return to you by dawn. But now, you must let me go." she requested.

Rincy was doubtful. 

"Where did Portria have to go so urgently, that she can't even answer my questions? What's more important than this?"she wondered.

But she let her go.

Portria was a woman of honour and people of honour never break their swears. 

After all, she wasn't that untrustworthy yet, that Rincy would have to doubt her swear.


© Srinidhi Iyengar