Fairytale Lies (Le Redux de Chrétien de Troyes) [House, M.D.; James Wilson, Gregory House; PG]
Title: Fairytale Lies (Le Redux de Chrétien de Troyes) [House, M.D.; James Wilson, Gregory House]
Author: savemoony
Summary: Once Upon a Time
Rating: PG
Fandom: House, M.D
Warning: (1) Alternative Universe (2) OFC named changed from ‘Summer’ to ‘Teresa’ due to the tone of the AU. ‘Teresa’ derives from the Attic Greek for ‘summer.’
Words: 5,089
Original Title, Author: Lie a Little by subluxate
Notes: I must thank [censor] for pushing me to finish, [censor] for letting me whine every night for two weeks, [censor] for the hand holding, [censor] for laughing at the allusions to Euripides and Charlemagne, and [censor] for the pivotal beta.
Our story begins, once upon a time, on the banks of the old, mammoth river that wandered through the enchanted lands of Asclepieia - from the Northern mountains, covered in snow, to the Southern sea, clear and wine-dark - and separated the kingdom of Cliewe from its most favored neighbor, the kingdom of Aedra.
The royal messenger of Cliewe had completed his five-day journey from the castle to the river’s ferry lodge; through the roaming countryside of the sweeping plains and valleys, past the farmlands rich with life and harvest, dotted with small, familiar inns and monasteries where a weary traveler could pass the night. He knew the route well, for it was his favorite chore, to deliver the periodic correspondence between King James of Cliewe and King Gregory of Aedra.
The messenger rested his Turkmene filly for the night, and in the morning prepared for his least favorite part of the journey - the day’s passage through the thick Aedran forests, empty of noise and movement. Aedra’s landscape differed from Cliewe. The messenger encountered not a soul as he passed, despite crossing the ferry with other travelers. He rejoiced that he did not have to make this leg of the journey at night. He cantered all afternoon, yet never rushed or pushed his filly. For his message needed only to arrive, not arrive by any decreed date or time.
Just as the sun dipped behind the tall firs, the foliage cleared and revealed vast vacant moorland. Far, far in the distance, the messenger took in the sight of the gothic schloss perched an inselberg that dwarfed the surrounding edifices of the small village. Cracking his riding crop, he galloped across the moors. The guard on top the eastern turret of the keep waved him through; as the day turned into night, the messenger crossed the moat bridge and began his winding ascendant to the upper courtyard of the schloss.
King Gregory's attendings stood waiting for him when he finally arrived. "Good sir, to what do we own this occasion?” The Foreman called out as he approached him. He was tall and strong man with dark features, who went by the christened name of Eric. The messenger could not recall tales of Foreman's every years. Nothing prior to his arrival in Aedra, in the time before His Highness ceased his quest for the holy unicorn yet after the tragedy of Queen Anastasia. Since then, Foreman had officiated as an eccentric fusion of prince regent and head of the household. He oversaw every affair that occurred in Aedra, from the military strategies directed toward the King Michael of Lagu to the menu for His Royal Highness's evening feast.
"I come with an invitation for His Royal Highness.” The messenger said before relinquishing care of his filly the chief stableman.
“You know His Highness declines all invitations for silly social gatherings."
“King James is quite aware of King Gregory's position. Hence why His Majesty follows a day behind to accompany His Highness back to Cliewe for the event."
Foreman snorted in mirth. It had not been the first time the messenger delivered the message. "You must be famished. Have the kitchen staff prepare a meal. I will tell His Highness.” The messenger thanked Foreman and handed him an envelope with the official seal of King James.
~
Foreman entered the castle. His Highness -- at the far end of the hall, his back to the entryway -- played a concert piano of impressive size and clarity. A Eurasian lynx perked its ears but did not rise from its perch between Foreman and the King.
"When is he arriving?” The King spoke without lifting his eyes. Foreman did not ask whom the King meant. The King knew everything. That is, he knew everything that he considered worth knowing.
"King James is due to arrive tomorrow at sunset. His messenger arrived not five minutes ago. He was instructed to deliver this.” Foreman held the letter. "Shall I open and read it to you or --"
"Leave it."
Foreman obeyed.
King Gregory waited until his left before breaking the seal. The letter read, "Gregory -- Don't even contemplate refusing my proposal. I'm holding a masquerade in your honor the Saturday after next, so that you may meet the one who will bear the heir of my domain."
True to his word, King James arrived with his flourish as the sun set upon the lands the following day. He wore a smug expression, proud and self-content, as if he had recently achieved all his hopes and desires. King Gregory also saw the twinkle in his eyes, the ease that would have granted James his every whim even had he not been royalty. The expression never melted King Gregory's resolve, but King James never retreated from a challenge. He dismounted his horse and dared to bring King Gregory into a brotherly embrace.
"You look tired," King James said a moment later, regarding King Gregory from an arm's length.
"And you look cocky. Just rescued another damsel?"
“An excuse to draw you from your solitude."
“The gesture does not go without appreciation. I am oh-so-thankful to play second-fiddle to your conquest."
“You are not second fiddle. You are the reward."
Only King James had the bold audacity to be that direct with King Gregory, and without expecting anything in return. King Gregory appreciated that, enjoyed him for that.
King Gregory brought King James into the castle. Dinner was already prepared, and a private event. They dined alone in the Grand Hall, and only Foreman was allowed to officiate. King James said, "The conversation never alters and always yields the same results, so why have it? Return with me, spend the evening in your unique and detailed appraisal of my betrothed, and afterwards, will abscond to town for the drink and a card game.
"Tell him I'm right," King James said to Foreman, who had just returned with the afters. "And tell him while you join us.” He motioned for Foreman to take the empty dinning chair on King Gregory's left.
Foreman said, "His Majesty is correct," as he took his place.
"My ability finally deceived me," King Gregory said. He reached for the torte, and never indicated that Wilson's invitation or Foreman's acceptance was out-of-place or improper. "I always thought Father Superior was the sycophant."
“His affirmation qualifies more as fawning than sycophancy."
"And his affirmation is based on neither," Foreman responded. "It is simply easier to manage state affairs while His Royal Highness is absent."
King James laughed, good and loud. "I can imagine. Now, tell me of Lady Wendy."
~
After dinner, entertainment, and rest, King Gregory agreed to King James’ plans. He left the kingdom in the safe stewardship of Foreman, and both embarked on the journey back to Cliewe.
At the ferry lodge that evening, King Gregory finally grew bored enough to ask, “And how did you rescue her this time?” Eight months had passed since the fatal accident of King James’ previous wife, Karina.
“You do not know?”
“My gifts do not grant me omniscience, James, only the ability to see through lies.”
“I rescued her from the bonds of slavery, and a life of dishonor and shame in Poure.”
“Since when have you become the Abbey?”
“Since God decreed it would be a sin to waste such beauty behind those cold stone walls.”
“God would never have decreed such trite words, being far too selfish and cruel.”
King James did not answer, and that ended their conversation for the evening. The rest of the journey passed until the two regents arrived at King James’ palace. Over their long acquaintance, King Gregory had been such a favored and venerable guest as to warrant his own wing of King James' castle. King Gregory found his bedchambers just as he had left them. The lynx settled into its pillow throne, and King Gregory found his way into his personal library.
~
When the night of the gala arrived, King Gregory amused himself in that library until King James barged into King Gregory’s chambers. “Tell me, what is ruder," King James demanded, "a host who must through coercion abandon his duties, or an honored guest that forces the host to abandon his masquerade?”
King Gregory stretched on his chaise. “I say it is ruder to subject your honored guest to hours of boring conversations, petty ego stroking, and mental torture.”
King Gregory flipped the manuscript and recalled just how many times they had been through this charade. With every new damsel, King James demanded they play. King Gregory could never remember their names and their faces blended together into one blonde, needy, weak personality that wanted to so much to live happily ever after with her Prince Charming, never realizing things only happen that way in fairy tales.
Ever since his youthful days, King James had enjoyed, with a little too much zeal, fulfilling the role of the valiant Prince Charming. While other royal heiress quested for the holy unicorn, Prince James had quested for a dragon to slay, and a maiden fettered in irons on the rocky shore of the sea. He rescued the damsel, and loved her completely, and unconditionally, until another damsel needed his rescue.
That all changed when word spread through Asclepieia that the Old King and his eldest son Prince Carloman had died, leaving Prince James as heir to the throne. The needs of his subjects replaced the needs of beautiful damsels. None as strong as King James' need for an heir. Nine years had passed since James ascended to the throne, and those nine years had failed to bestow James with an heir. The heavens had not bestowed him with impotence; they bestowed his wives with womanly complications and his child with quiet births. Some in the court even dared call it a curse.
King Gregory has always wanted to tell King James the truth, or a version of the truth, but King James has never asked.
King James' royal cape spread like the wings of a bird as his hands found anchor on his hips. “Queen Lisa is in attendance and is eager to spend the evening with you.”
“No doubt.” King Gregory nodded. “I expect she wants to spend more than the evening with me.”
“You should let her. She would make an excellent confidante and companion for your kingdom.”
“She offers me nothing I need nor want. And if you continue to throw these masquerades, I can ogle at her cleavage without obligations.”
“Not if you don’t adorn yourself and attend the gala. Come," King James ordered. "Dress and put on your mask.”
“I sent it back. It did not suit my tastes.”
“That mask was how Teresa was to identify you,” King James insisted.
“She will know, with or without my mask,” King Gregory replied. “I have nothing to hide. I will attend like so, or not at all.” Each time a masquerade was held, the same argument befell the two monarchs. King Gregory had always to remind his friend of his weariness of these affairs, because there was no mystery. He already knew everyone's secrets.
“As you wish,” James said. “But at least change your tunic.” It was hardly needed, King Gregory thought, for King James had dressed well enough for both of them in his charcoal and pale blue robes and raiment.
King Gregory dressed to the satisfaction of his companion, and they descended the large stairway into the Grand Hall decorated with tapestries and gold. The orchestra played an original composition and King Gregory favored King James with a glance. He knew him too well. Guests glided across the dance floor and others gossiped along the sides, watching, and no doubt critiquing every move. Through the masks and disguises, King Gregory recognized all of the patrons and royal guests.
King James did not formally introduce his guest. They departed on the floor, King James to dance with a fair maiden and King Gregory to stalk the perimeters, perhaps even to engage Queen Lisa in conversation.
From across the hall, King Gregory focused on a woman he had never seen before, with long legs and ample beasts. He knew her, even though he did not know her face, and he grinned as he observed her interact with King James. Oh, how very delicious.
“Your Highness,” King James said as King Gregory approached the couple, “I wish for you to meet Teresa.”
“If I may,” King Gregory said, as he took her hand, and danced her onto the balcony. Under the moonlight, he saw her true form. Her dreary blonde hair, her sickly complexion, her tainted soul. “Congratulations, Theodora, you have finally made one of these dreary events worth the long travel.”
Even her voice, which had once been dark and foreign, sounded softer and lighter at this time, sweet and innocent. “Your Highness, it’s an honor to meet you. Your reputation precedes you, and James talks of you so often.”
“Cease your prattle, and do not imagine you can deceive me. Does he know? Is that how you caught his attention, by providing a chance to rescue a poor, common whore?”
“James rescued sweet, common Teresa from being sold into a life of shame and dishonor.”
“Not if I tell him that poor, sweet Teresa is in truth the undignified and impure Theodora, who sells her body for the lowest price.”
“You will not because I will tell him that you have been to my bed.”
“You will not because that will ruin your virginal image.”
“It might, it might not, and poor James does love the hopeless cases. It will force him ask why you traveled so far to my distant land. And if I recall, your gift will not allow you to spin a tale of fiction. Not even one based on the truth yet littered with doublespeak and riddles."
King Gregory smirked at the girl. "Well played, Theodora. I will not tell James that I know you. You have my word." He left before she could answer. For, if King Gregory recalled, he would only have to wait a few months before King James retreated to Aedra for solace after burying another wife. King Gregory was a patient man. Let her have her disillusions. He exited the gala without further ado, and did not notice blonde maiden with keen expression watch him stalk up the stairs and back to his chambers.
~
The wedding commenced a week later, and King Gregory and his lynx watched from the back of the high cathedral. The event was smaller than normal; after so many times, the excitement had become tempered for the subjects of Cliewe. King Gregory drank his champagne alone, and waited, waited for the fun to begin. He departed the next day, not bothering to bid farewell to King James, who was already preoccupied with his obsession to secure an heir.
Upon his return to Aedra, King Gregory busied himself with Queen Lisa’s concerns that King Michael and King Edward planned on allying and pressuring war. King Gregory knew this, and he had a plan for counter-attack, but it did not include Queen Lisa. Or, at least, at this time. He had agreed, however, if things became dire enough, to send aid to King Charles. No army, no soldiers. Aedra was a kingdom rich with natural resources, but isolated and with few subjects.
King James’ letters over the next few months ranged from annoyingly cheerful - his subjects adored the new queen, his harvest would produce a surplus, and he desired for King Gregory to visit again - to the quietly depressed - Teresa still remained barren, and what would happen with Poure and the upcoming wars? After a while, King James’ letters settled on a hopeful, and lively mood, and he stopped mentioning Teresa altogether. King Gregory noted it did not take long for him to find a new adventure; perhaps the former harlot was not as skilled as King Gregory had remembered.
And then, one day, the correspondence arrived in the hands of one other than the messenger. King Gregory looked up from his piano and saw Queen Teresa, in the flesh, standing with the letters. She looked wild, and he remembered the passion used to put into her old vocation.
“Has he already run off to rescue a new damsel?" King Gregory asked, unconcerned. "You do not appear to be deceased, and he has not mentioned any unfortunate accidents.”
“You must return to Cliewe with me. Our court’s been infested by something wicked and unholy.”
“More wicked and unholy than your tarnished soul?”
“My husband has taken a mistress.”
"Your sovereign," King Gregory admonished as he stood. She did not lie. Impossible, but she did not lie. “Tell me the tale. Tell it now.”
The Queen nodded. “It started when Ja-- His Majesty visited Poure, three score days past. On his journey, he encountered a young lad and his carriage being attacked by thieves. You know King James; he cannot resist. He rushed in and slew the thieves, and saved the boy.” The Queen paused. “The boy, in reality, was a woman traveling in disguise, she claimed, for protection. King James offered to accompany her to her destination, for protection, and she revealed she was traveling his way. The King and Lady Volakis have not been apart a day since.”
“King James is loyal, and monogamous, to a fault. Your claims prove nothing, especially if he spends his nights in your bed.”
“He spends his nights in our bed, because she refuses his advances.”
“You will need to watch your position carefully, then. King James loves the chase. Her modesty and trepidation will only intensify his desire for her.”
“She is not modest or tepid. Lady Volakis makes her intentions quite clear. She wants my husband for her own.”
“I want your husband for my own,” King Gregory said, before he could stop himself. “How does your horrible predicament concern me?”
“This liaison threatens the stability of Cliewe. Lady Volakis has bewitched His Majesty, and you must return and expose her for the evil sorceress she is. He trusts and believes you. You must help me."
"I have kept your secret; that is all the help you will receive from me.”
“I will reveal the truth to him surrounding to you. I will tell him why his lineage remains bare, ever since Queen Anastasia's mis --"
King Gregory slapped her, "You know nothing." He left the parlor, called out as his exited, "Get out. Go tell him what you know, if you must. And consider yourself lucky, Queen Teresa, for you might escape this marriage without meeting your maker first.”
“I will be the one to break the curse.”
“Each one said that. Each failed. Leave me in peace. Deal with Lady Volakis on your own.”
~
Weeks passed and King Gregory did not receive further correspondence from either the King or Queen of Cliewe. That did not mean he did not know the daily happenings of his favored neighbor, the benefit of having admirers, lovesick ones at that, in foreign courts. Lady Allison provided King Gregory with scrolls of gossip. (Work in something about a loopy G, or a loopy cursive, etc.)
King James had indeed taken a mistress, and according to Lady Allison’s accounts, he had become quite enamored of her, almost bewitched by her beauty and charms. He lavished her with gifts, such as a matinee pearl necklace that she now wore for every occasion. More shockingly, King James bestowed on her his prize colt, Gringolet, and every afternoon King James and Lady Volakis rode through the countryside, with only a small guard to protect them, and socialized with the subjects of Cliewe. In one letter, Lady Cameron confessed that she had conversed with Lady Volakis that afternoon, and found her candid with language, and astute with knowledge. If not for her exquisite beauty, Lady Cameron wrote, I would’ve mistaken her for a Knight. What scandalous behavior, and the poor Queen, left sulking in her chambers, can do nothing to stop it.
Despite her valiant attempts. I have not disclosed the following with any other soul; but I admit it perplexes me, and know you can decipher the true meaning of the words. The afternoon before last, I ambled toward the parlor in the East Wing. Robert Father Superior had arrived in court the night before, home from his quest with the same results as the times before -- nothing. Sir Robert’s tunic needed mending, and the East Wing parlor houses the finest loom in the castle. When I arrived, I found the door closed; on closer inspection, I detected the voices of Queen Teresa and Lady Volakis in a rather lively discussion. Lady Volakis worked the loom, weaving a shroud, and would not relinquish the machine to the Queen. I missed the beginning, and I could not decipher their lines when they whispered; nevertheless, I will tell you what I recall.
“I am Queen,” Queen Teresa said, “and you will obey my royal and supreme authority. You will depart Cliewe, at once; I do not care where you go. Escape to Heafod or Lagu for all I care. Enthrall that wretched king of Aedra. Just leave!”
“You may be Queen, but you possess neither royal nor supreme authority. James desires that I stay; and nothing could convince me otherwise.”
“You bewitched him with your potions and your enchantments. He knows not what he does.”
“I am not the only one he knows not what he does with.”
“You shouldn’t be here!”
“Neither should you.”
“I never agreed to this. I never…”
“You never asked why I never demanded payment. Or did you just believe I acted out of the goodness of my heart?”
I heard nothing but the loom for moments, until finally the Queen replied, “I will have the servants pack your trunk for Aeaea. You return will commence before tonight’s sunset. If you don’t, only your head will return.”
Do you know what that means? And have you ever heard of this Aeaea? It is not a kingdom within Asclepieia. Lady Cameron always ended her letters with hopes that he would visit her again, and with her sincerest love. The child knew nothing of love. King Gregory burned every letter, not wanting someone to discover his spy, and thought of what this all meant.
The culmination before long revealed itself when The Foreman woke King Gregory in the dark of night. The King was not pleased, for he had been dreaming of his precious Anastasia, his departed heart, and what should have been. The life they should have lend, and they kingdom they should have ruled. “Your Highness, King James’ messenger waits in the entry.”
“It can wait until morning.”
“He says the matter is urgent and concerns the King’s security.”
King Gregory robed and found his way to the welcoming hall. The messenger huffed and exclaimed when he saw the King. "Your Highness, I bring an urgent message from King James. I have traveled all day and all night for the past three days. I nearly crippled my best horses. The King demands, and that was his exact wording, demands that you return with me to his kingdom, and that we leave the moment you receive the message."
"I am tired and I have no interest in rushing to soothe his petty needs."
The messenger thrust a letter, sealed with the official mark of the monarch, at King Gregory. "He begged me to beg you to read it. Tonight."
King Gregory snatched the letter and broke the seal. It read, in James' horrid handwriting, "Lady Volakis is with child."
King Gregory looked at the Foreman. "Ready my horse. I will leave immediately. And start after me in the morning with my things. Pack for a least a month's stay."
They reached the kingdom within four days. King Gregory hastened to the royal bedchambers. “Has she died yet?” King Gregory asked as he barged through the doors. He found King James pacing the carpet, a blonde - whom he presumed was Lady Volakis - watching James pace from the wingback chair, and Queen Teresa, standing in the corner, looking mad.
It was Lady Volakis who responded. “I am his mistress, not his wife.”
King James hurried toward his friend. “She won’t die, King Gregory, will she?”
Looking directly into Lady Volakis’ eyes, King Gregory said, “No, your mistress will not die.”
“Could it be true? Don’t speak in riddles,” King James said. “I never ask anything of you, but I am asking now. Tell me in plain words. Will she die in childbirth?”
King Gregory repeated, “Your mistress will not die in childbirth.”
"And the child?"
"Is Lady Volakis' responsibility."
King James tightened his jaw, but he seemed to understand what his friend meant. He faced his Queen and his mistress as he spoke. “Lady Volakis will remain with me, here, until the final month; after that she and I shall retreat to the seashore.” He said to his mistress, “You will eat only what I say, see only whom I say, and travel only with whom I allow. You will have a nurse and doctor with you at all hours.”
“And after the child is born?” Queen Teresa asked.
“Nothing matters,” King James said, “until the child is born, healthy and strong. Until then nothing changes.”
“You just…”
“Nothing changes.”
Queen Teresa wanted to speak but did not dare.
~
The tower looked directly into the Queen's chambers. From his preach, King Gregory observed Theodora sobs on her bed. James entered some time later and knelt beside her. He ran his hand through her hair, and lifted her into setting position. Thanks to a bit of magic, King Gregory heard every word.
King James kissed her check and dried her eyes. "Quiet yourself, my dear."
"Why did you lose faith in me? I would have given you an heir, a rightful heir instead of this bastard."
"My heir will not be a bastard."
"Finally, the truth," Teresa spat. "You do plan on tossing me aside, locking me up in some tower or some prison by the sea, while you marry that witch!"
"I do not intend to lock you up. You will always have an honored place in my court."
"As whom? Your jester? The fool that lives off your charity. I will not be belittled and shamed. Not by my husband, and not but your venefica whore."
"Watch your tongue."
"I just wanted you to love me. Why could you just love me?"
~
"They say he's cursed." King Gregory looked away from the King and Queen when he heard a voice call out from the distance. Lady Volakis walked out onto the balcony, beside King Gregory, and also looked at the same spot. She continued, "Forever destined to repeat the pattern. He rescues the fair maiden yet they never find true love. That is why he could not just love her."
King Gregory snorted. "The girl should thank you."
"How many have died in childbirth? Six," Lady Volakis paused. "No, six children have died but only five wives. Poor, Bonnie survived only to have her wits snapped from the grief."
"He keeps her in a small castle by the sea. Still visits, too, to rest flowers on Hector’s grave, but had the marriage annulled."
"Yet no one asks you why? You, the man who knows everything, the man who only sees the truth, and cannot tell a lie." Lady Volakis said, "Tell me, Your Highness, why do all his wives die in childbirth?"
King Gregory eyed Lady Volakis. "The world works in mysterious ways. And because if I shall never be happy neither shall he."
"And if he couldn't parade his conquests he'd have no legitimate reason to request your presence."
“I would think of something to keep him.” King Gregory looked at her. "And no one asks you why. You're confident for a woman carrying a death warrant."
"I am not his wife," Lady Volakis smiled.
"How astute. Why him?"
"He makes me feel safe, respected, loved." She said, “He is the first I’ve never wanted to enchant, at least, not with herbs and potions. Not in the ways of my legacy.”
“And yet you so willingly carry out tradition. Are you planning to send her a robe?”
“She is not innocent, and she should’ve known better.”
Lady Volakis said, after a moment, "You need me. James will never agree to your schemes. Nothing matters to him except securing an heir to his kingdom. A kingdom cannot flourish if its leader cannot devout their full attention to their subjects' needs. And a King cannot do that if he concerns himself only with succession and fears of coup d’états. He needs an heir."
"And once he has his precious heir?"
"Children are so vulnerable in their early years. They need their mother. And it’s always better to have a spare.”
"Or I'll need someone to see to affairs while James and I are preoccupied."
"You redraw the borders to combine the kingdoms, I will provide the heir, and we all will live happily ever after."
"There is no happily ever after."
"Then we will just live ever after."
At that moment, King James entered the room with Teresa in hand. "Gregory!"
King Gregory turned around. King James said, "Teresa says you have slept with her. Is that true?"
King Gregory looks at the girl and said, "I have never slept with Teresa."
"Liar," Queen Teresa said.
"I never lie."
"You twist the truth!" Queen Teresa said, and turned to James. "Ask him if he's slept with Theodora."
"Theodora," King Gregory said with a grin. "Oh, I remember her. A cheap prostitute from Poure. But you are not her. If you were she, you would have lied to His Majesty. And lying to His Majesty is a traitorous act."
Queen Teresa did not have an answer.
~
King James stood in his throne room. Lady Volakis and King Gregory stood off on the corner of the platform, and before them stood Teresa in her true form as Theodora.
"For your crimes of adultery, witchcraft, and high treason, I condemn you to death by decapitation. Your execution is scheduled for tomorrow at dawn."
~
Lady Volakis gave birth to a small girl on a mid-summer evening. The girl was tiny, and she screamed until placed in her father’s arms. On her first birthday, King Gregory presented Princess Dorothea with the rights to his kingdom, and her father made her mother his rightful and legal Queen, with full power and responsibility of a monarch.
And they all lived ever after.
Author: savemoony
Summary: Once Upon a Time
Rating: PG
Fandom: House, M.D
Warning: (1) Alternative Universe (2) OFC named changed from ‘Summer’ to ‘Teresa’ due to the tone of the AU. ‘Teresa’ derives from the Attic Greek for ‘summer.’
Words: 5,089
Original Title, Author: Lie a Little by subluxate
Notes: I must thank [censor] for pushing me to finish, [censor] for letting me whine every night for two weeks, [censor] for the hand holding, [censor] for laughing at the allusions to Euripides and Charlemagne, and [censor] for the pivotal beta.
Our story begins, once upon a time, on the banks of the old, mammoth river that wandered through the enchanted lands of Asclepieia - from the Northern mountains, covered in snow, to the Southern sea, clear and wine-dark - and separated the kingdom of Cliewe from its most favored neighbor, the kingdom of Aedra.
The royal messenger of Cliewe had completed his five-day journey from the castle to the river’s ferry lodge; through the roaming countryside of the sweeping plains and valleys, past the farmlands rich with life and harvest, dotted with small, familiar inns and monasteries where a weary traveler could pass the night. He knew the route well, for it was his favorite chore, to deliver the periodic correspondence between King James of Cliewe and King Gregory of Aedra.
The messenger rested his Turkmene filly for the night, and in the morning prepared for his least favorite part of the journey - the day’s passage through the thick Aedran forests, empty of noise and movement. Aedra’s landscape differed from Cliewe. The messenger encountered not a soul as he passed, despite crossing the ferry with other travelers. He rejoiced that he did not have to make this leg of the journey at night. He cantered all afternoon, yet never rushed or pushed his filly. For his message needed only to arrive, not arrive by any decreed date or time.
Just as the sun dipped behind the tall firs, the foliage cleared and revealed vast vacant moorland. Far, far in the distance, the messenger took in the sight of the gothic schloss perched an inselberg that dwarfed the surrounding edifices of the small village. Cracking his riding crop, he galloped across the moors. The guard on top the eastern turret of the keep waved him through; as the day turned into night, the messenger crossed the moat bridge and began his winding ascendant to the upper courtyard of the schloss.
King Gregory's attendings stood waiting for him when he finally arrived. "Good sir, to what do we own this occasion?” The Foreman called out as he approached him. He was tall and strong man with dark features, who went by the christened name of Eric. The messenger could not recall tales of Foreman's every years. Nothing prior to his arrival in Aedra, in the time before His Highness ceased his quest for the holy unicorn yet after the tragedy of Queen Anastasia. Since then, Foreman had officiated as an eccentric fusion of prince regent and head of the household. He oversaw every affair that occurred in Aedra, from the military strategies directed toward the King Michael of Lagu to the menu for His Royal Highness's evening feast.
"I come with an invitation for His Royal Highness.” The messenger said before relinquishing care of his filly the chief stableman.
“You know His Highness declines all invitations for silly social gatherings."
“King James is quite aware of King Gregory's position. Hence why His Majesty follows a day behind to accompany His Highness back to Cliewe for the event."
Foreman snorted in mirth. It had not been the first time the messenger delivered the message. "You must be famished. Have the kitchen staff prepare a meal. I will tell His Highness.” The messenger thanked Foreman and handed him an envelope with the official seal of King James.
~
Foreman entered the castle. His Highness -- at the far end of the hall, his back to the entryway -- played a concert piano of impressive size and clarity. A Eurasian lynx perked its ears but did not rise from its perch between Foreman and the King.
"When is he arriving?” The King spoke without lifting his eyes. Foreman did not ask whom the King meant. The King knew everything. That is, he knew everything that he considered worth knowing.
"King James is due to arrive tomorrow at sunset. His messenger arrived not five minutes ago. He was instructed to deliver this.” Foreman held the letter. "Shall I open and read it to you or --"
"Leave it."
Foreman obeyed.
King Gregory waited until his left before breaking the seal. The letter read, "Gregory -- Don't even contemplate refusing my proposal. I'm holding a masquerade in your honor the Saturday after next, so that you may meet the one who will bear the heir of my domain."
True to his word, King James arrived with his flourish as the sun set upon the lands the following day. He wore a smug expression, proud and self-content, as if he had recently achieved all his hopes and desires. King Gregory also saw the twinkle in his eyes, the ease that would have granted James his every whim even had he not been royalty. The expression never melted King Gregory's resolve, but King James never retreated from a challenge. He dismounted his horse and dared to bring King Gregory into a brotherly embrace.
"You look tired," King James said a moment later, regarding King Gregory from an arm's length.
"And you look cocky. Just rescued another damsel?"
“An excuse to draw you from your solitude."
“The gesture does not go without appreciation. I am oh-so-thankful to play second-fiddle to your conquest."
“You are not second fiddle. You are the reward."
Only King James had the bold audacity to be that direct with King Gregory, and without expecting anything in return. King Gregory appreciated that, enjoyed him for that.
King Gregory brought King James into the castle. Dinner was already prepared, and a private event. They dined alone in the Grand Hall, and only Foreman was allowed to officiate. King James said, "The conversation never alters and always yields the same results, so why have it? Return with me, spend the evening in your unique and detailed appraisal of my betrothed, and afterwards, will abscond to town for the drink and a card game.
"Tell him I'm right," King James said to Foreman, who had just returned with the afters. "And tell him while you join us.” He motioned for Foreman to take the empty dinning chair on King Gregory's left.
Foreman said, "His Majesty is correct," as he took his place.
"My ability finally deceived me," King Gregory said. He reached for the torte, and never indicated that Wilson's invitation or Foreman's acceptance was out-of-place or improper. "I always thought Father Superior was the sycophant."
“His affirmation qualifies more as fawning than sycophancy."
"And his affirmation is based on neither," Foreman responded. "It is simply easier to manage state affairs while His Royal Highness is absent."
King James laughed, good and loud. "I can imagine. Now, tell me of Lady Wendy."
~
After dinner, entertainment, and rest, King Gregory agreed to King James’ plans. He left the kingdom in the safe stewardship of Foreman, and both embarked on the journey back to Cliewe.
At the ferry lodge that evening, King Gregory finally grew bored enough to ask, “And how did you rescue her this time?” Eight months had passed since the fatal accident of King James’ previous wife, Karina.
“You do not know?”
“My gifts do not grant me omniscience, James, only the ability to see through lies.”
“I rescued her from the bonds of slavery, and a life of dishonor and shame in Poure.”
“Since when have you become the Abbey?”
“Since God decreed it would be a sin to waste such beauty behind those cold stone walls.”
“God would never have decreed such trite words, being far too selfish and cruel.”
King James did not answer, and that ended their conversation for the evening. The rest of the journey passed until the two regents arrived at King James’ palace. Over their long acquaintance, King Gregory had been such a favored and venerable guest as to warrant his own wing of King James' castle. King Gregory found his bedchambers just as he had left them. The lynx settled into its pillow throne, and King Gregory found his way into his personal library.
~
When the night of the gala arrived, King Gregory amused himself in that library until King James barged into King Gregory’s chambers. “Tell me, what is ruder," King James demanded, "a host who must through coercion abandon his duties, or an honored guest that forces the host to abandon his masquerade?”
King Gregory stretched on his chaise. “I say it is ruder to subject your honored guest to hours of boring conversations, petty ego stroking, and mental torture.”
King Gregory flipped the manuscript and recalled just how many times they had been through this charade. With every new damsel, King James demanded they play. King Gregory could never remember their names and their faces blended together into one blonde, needy, weak personality that wanted to so much to live happily ever after with her Prince Charming, never realizing things only happen that way in fairy tales.
Ever since his youthful days, King James had enjoyed, with a little too much zeal, fulfilling the role of the valiant Prince Charming. While other royal heiress quested for the holy unicorn, Prince James had quested for a dragon to slay, and a maiden fettered in irons on the rocky shore of the sea. He rescued the damsel, and loved her completely, and unconditionally, until another damsel needed his rescue.
That all changed when word spread through Asclepieia that the Old King and his eldest son Prince Carloman had died, leaving Prince James as heir to the throne. The needs of his subjects replaced the needs of beautiful damsels. None as strong as King James' need for an heir. Nine years had passed since James ascended to the throne, and those nine years had failed to bestow James with an heir. The heavens had not bestowed him with impotence; they bestowed his wives with womanly complications and his child with quiet births. Some in the court even dared call it a curse.
King Gregory has always wanted to tell King James the truth, or a version of the truth, but King James has never asked.
King James' royal cape spread like the wings of a bird as his hands found anchor on his hips. “Queen Lisa is in attendance and is eager to spend the evening with you.”
“No doubt.” King Gregory nodded. “I expect she wants to spend more than the evening with me.”
“You should let her. She would make an excellent confidante and companion for your kingdom.”
“She offers me nothing I need nor want. And if you continue to throw these masquerades, I can ogle at her cleavage without obligations.”
“Not if you don’t adorn yourself and attend the gala. Come," King James ordered. "Dress and put on your mask.”
“I sent it back. It did not suit my tastes.”
“That mask was how Teresa was to identify you,” King James insisted.
“She will know, with or without my mask,” King Gregory replied. “I have nothing to hide. I will attend like so, or not at all.” Each time a masquerade was held, the same argument befell the two monarchs. King Gregory had always to remind his friend of his weariness of these affairs, because there was no mystery. He already knew everyone's secrets.
“As you wish,” James said. “But at least change your tunic.” It was hardly needed, King Gregory thought, for King James had dressed well enough for both of them in his charcoal and pale blue robes and raiment.
King Gregory dressed to the satisfaction of his companion, and they descended the large stairway into the Grand Hall decorated with tapestries and gold. The orchestra played an original composition and King Gregory favored King James with a glance. He knew him too well. Guests glided across the dance floor and others gossiped along the sides, watching, and no doubt critiquing every move. Through the masks and disguises, King Gregory recognized all of the patrons and royal guests.
King James did not formally introduce his guest. They departed on the floor, King James to dance with a fair maiden and King Gregory to stalk the perimeters, perhaps even to engage Queen Lisa in conversation.
From across the hall, King Gregory focused on a woman he had never seen before, with long legs and ample beasts. He knew her, even though he did not know her face, and he grinned as he observed her interact with King James. Oh, how very delicious.
“Your Highness,” King James said as King Gregory approached the couple, “I wish for you to meet Teresa.”
“If I may,” King Gregory said, as he took her hand, and danced her onto the balcony. Under the moonlight, he saw her true form. Her dreary blonde hair, her sickly complexion, her tainted soul. “Congratulations, Theodora, you have finally made one of these dreary events worth the long travel.”
Even her voice, which had once been dark and foreign, sounded softer and lighter at this time, sweet and innocent. “Your Highness, it’s an honor to meet you. Your reputation precedes you, and James talks of you so often.”
“Cease your prattle, and do not imagine you can deceive me. Does he know? Is that how you caught his attention, by providing a chance to rescue a poor, common whore?”
“James rescued sweet, common Teresa from being sold into a life of shame and dishonor.”
“Not if I tell him that poor, sweet Teresa is in truth the undignified and impure Theodora, who sells her body for the lowest price.”
“You will not because I will tell him that you have been to my bed.”
“You will not because that will ruin your virginal image.”
“It might, it might not, and poor James does love the hopeless cases. It will force him ask why you traveled so far to my distant land. And if I recall, your gift will not allow you to spin a tale of fiction. Not even one based on the truth yet littered with doublespeak and riddles."
King Gregory smirked at the girl. "Well played, Theodora. I will not tell James that I know you. You have my word." He left before she could answer. For, if King Gregory recalled, he would only have to wait a few months before King James retreated to Aedra for solace after burying another wife. King Gregory was a patient man. Let her have her disillusions. He exited the gala without further ado, and did not notice blonde maiden with keen expression watch him stalk up the stairs and back to his chambers.
~
The wedding commenced a week later, and King Gregory and his lynx watched from the back of the high cathedral. The event was smaller than normal; after so many times, the excitement had become tempered for the subjects of Cliewe. King Gregory drank his champagne alone, and waited, waited for the fun to begin. He departed the next day, not bothering to bid farewell to King James, who was already preoccupied with his obsession to secure an heir.
Upon his return to Aedra, King Gregory busied himself with Queen Lisa’s concerns that King Michael and King Edward planned on allying and pressuring war. King Gregory knew this, and he had a plan for counter-attack, but it did not include Queen Lisa. Or, at least, at this time. He had agreed, however, if things became dire enough, to send aid to King Charles. No army, no soldiers. Aedra was a kingdom rich with natural resources, but isolated and with few subjects.
King James’ letters over the next few months ranged from annoyingly cheerful - his subjects adored the new queen, his harvest would produce a surplus, and he desired for King Gregory to visit again - to the quietly depressed - Teresa still remained barren, and what would happen with Poure and the upcoming wars? After a while, King James’ letters settled on a hopeful, and lively mood, and he stopped mentioning Teresa altogether. King Gregory noted it did not take long for him to find a new adventure; perhaps the former harlot was not as skilled as King Gregory had remembered.
And then, one day, the correspondence arrived in the hands of one other than the messenger. King Gregory looked up from his piano and saw Queen Teresa, in the flesh, standing with the letters. She looked wild, and he remembered the passion used to put into her old vocation.
“Has he already run off to rescue a new damsel?" King Gregory asked, unconcerned. "You do not appear to be deceased, and he has not mentioned any unfortunate accidents.”
“You must return to Cliewe with me. Our court’s been infested by something wicked and unholy.”
“More wicked and unholy than your tarnished soul?”
“My husband has taken a mistress.”
"Your sovereign," King Gregory admonished as he stood. She did not lie. Impossible, but she did not lie. “Tell me the tale. Tell it now.”
The Queen nodded. “It started when Ja-- His Majesty visited Poure, three score days past. On his journey, he encountered a young lad and his carriage being attacked by thieves. You know King James; he cannot resist. He rushed in and slew the thieves, and saved the boy.” The Queen paused. “The boy, in reality, was a woman traveling in disguise, she claimed, for protection. King James offered to accompany her to her destination, for protection, and she revealed she was traveling his way. The King and Lady Volakis have not been apart a day since.”
“King James is loyal, and monogamous, to a fault. Your claims prove nothing, especially if he spends his nights in your bed.”
“He spends his nights in our bed, because she refuses his advances.”
“You will need to watch your position carefully, then. King James loves the chase. Her modesty and trepidation will only intensify his desire for her.”
“She is not modest or tepid. Lady Volakis makes her intentions quite clear. She wants my husband for her own.”
“I want your husband for my own,” King Gregory said, before he could stop himself. “How does your horrible predicament concern me?”
“This liaison threatens the stability of Cliewe. Lady Volakis has bewitched His Majesty, and you must return and expose her for the evil sorceress she is. He trusts and believes you. You must help me."
"I have kept your secret; that is all the help you will receive from me.”
“I will reveal the truth to him surrounding to you. I will tell him why his lineage remains bare, ever since Queen Anastasia's mis --"
King Gregory slapped her, "You know nothing." He left the parlor, called out as his exited, "Get out. Go tell him what you know, if you must. And consider yourself lucky, Queen Teresa, for you might escape this marriage without meeting your maker first.”
“I will be the one to break the curse.”
“Each one said that. Each failed. Leave me in peace. Deal with Lady Volakis on your own.”
~
Weeks passed and King Gregory did not receive further correspondence from either the King or Queen of Cliewe. That did not mean he did not know the daily happenings of his favored neighbor, the benefit of having admirers, lovesick ones at that, in foreign courts. Lady Allison provided King Gregory with scrolls of gossip. (Work in something about a loopy G, or a loopy cursive, etc.)
King James had indeed taken a mistress, and according to Lady Allison’s accounts, he had become quite enamored of her, almost bewitched by her beauty and charms. He lavished her with gifts, such as a matinee pearl necklace that she now wore for every occasion. More shockingly, King James bestowed on her his prize colt, Gringolet, and every afternoon King James and Lady Volakis rode through the countryside, with only a small guard to protect them, and socialized with the subjects of Cliewe. In one letter, Lady Cameron confessed that she had conversed with Lady Volakis that afternoon, and found her candid with language, and astute with knowledge. If not for her exquisite beauty, Lady Cameron wrote, I would’ve mistaken her for a Knight. What scandalous behavior, and the poor Queen, left sulking in her chambers, can do nothing to stop it.
Despite her valiant attempts. I have not disclosed the following with any other soul; but I admit it perplexes me, and know you can decipher the true meaning of the words. The afternoon before last, I ambled toward the parlor in the East Wing. Robert Father Superior had arrived in court the night before, home from his quest with the same results as the times before -- nothing. Sir Robert’s tunic needed mending, and the East Wing parlor houses the finest loom in the castle. When I arrived, I found the door closed; on closer inspection, I detected the voices of Queen Teresa and Lady Volakis in a rather lively discussion. Lady Volakis worked the loom, weaving a shroud, and would not relinquish the machine to the Queen. I missed the beginning, and I could not decipher their lines when they whispered; nevertheless, I will tell you what I recall.
“I am Queen,” Queen Teresa said, “and you will obey my royal and supreme authority. You will depart Cliewe, at once; I do not care where you go. Escape to Heafod or Lagu for all I care. Enthrall that wretched king of Aedra. Just leave!”
“You may be Queen, but you possess neither royal nor supreme authority. James desires that I stay; and nothing could convince me otherwise.”
“You bewitched him with your potions and your enchantments. He knows not what he does.”
“I am not the only one he knows not what he does with.”
“You shouldn’t be here!”
“Neither should you.”
“I never agreed to this. I never…”
“You never asked why I never demanded payment. Or did you just believe I acted out of the goodness of my heart?”
I heard nothing but the loom for moments, until finally the Queen replied, “I will have the servants pack your trunk for Aeaea. You return will commence before tonight’s sunset. If you don’t, only your head will return.”
Do you know what that means? And have you ever heard of this Aeaea? It is not a kingdom within Asclepieia. Lady Cameron always ended her letters with hopes that he would visit her again, and with her sincerest love. The child knew nothing of love. King Gregory burned every letter, not wanting someone to discover his spy, and thought of what this all meant.
The culmination before long revealed itself when The Foreman woke King Gregory in the dark of night. The King was not pleased, for he had been dreaming of his precious Anastasia, his departed heart, and what should have been. The life they should have lend, and they kingdom they should have ruled. “Your Highness, King James’ messenger waits in the entry.”
“It can wait until morning.”
“He says the matter is urgent and concerns the King’s security.”
King Gregory robed and found his way to the welcoming hall. The messenger huffed and exclaimed when he saw the King. "Your Highness, I bring an urgent message from King James. I have traveled all day and all night for the past three days. I nearly crippled my best horses. The King demands, and that was his exact wording, demands that you return with me to his kingdom, and that we leave the moment you receive the message."
"I am tired and I have no interest in rushing to soothe his petty needs."
The messenger thrust a letter, sealed with the official mark of the monarch, at King Gregory. "He begged me to beg you to read it. Tonight."
King Gregory snatched the letter and broke the seal. It read, in James' horrid handwriting, "Lady Volakis is with child."
King Gregory looked at the Foreman. "Ready my horse. I will leave immediately. And start after me in the morning with my things. Pack for a least a month's stay."
They reached the kingdom within four days. King Gregory hastened to the royal bedchambers. “Has she died yet?” King Gregory asked as he barged through the doors. He found King James pacing the carpet, a blonde - whom he presumed was Lady Volakis - watching James pace from the wingback chair, and Queen Teresa, standing in the corner, looking mad.
It was Lady Volakis who responded. “I am his mistress, not his wife.”
King James hurried toward his friend. “She won’t die, King Gregory, will she?”
Looking directly into Lady Volakis’ eyes, King Gregory said, “No, your mistress will not die.”
“Could it be true? Don’t speak in riddles,” King James said. “I never ask anything of you, but I am asking now. Tell me in plain words. Will she die in childbirth?”
King Gregory repeated, “Your mistress will not die in childbirth.”
"And the child?"
"Is Lady Volakis' responsibility."
King James tightened his jaw, but he seemed to understand what his friend meant. He faced his Queen and his mistress as he spoke. “Lady Volakis will remain with me, here, until the final month; after that she and I shall retreat to the seashore.” He said to his mistress, “You will eat only what I say, see only whom I say, and travel only with whom I allow. You will have a nurse and doctor with you at all hours.”
“And after the child is born?” Queen Teresa asked.
“Nothing matters,” King James said, “until the child is born, healthy and strong. Until then nothing changes.”
“You just…”
“Nothing changes.”
Queen Teresa wanted to speak but did not dare.
~
The tower looked directly into the Queen's chambers. From his preach, King Gregory observed Theodora sobs on her bed. James entered some time later and knelt beside her. He ran his hand through her hair, and lifted her into setting position. Thanks to a bit of magic, King Gregory heard every word.
King James kissed her check and dried her eyes. "Quiet yourself, my dear."
"Why did you lose faith in me? I would have given you an heir, a rightful heir instead of this bastard."
"My heir will not be a bastard."
"Finally, the truth," Teresa spat. "You do plan on tossing me aside, locking me up in some tower or some prison by the sea, while you marry that witch!"
"I do not intend to lock you up. You will always have an honored place in my court."
"As whom? Your jester? The fool that lives off your charity. I will not be belittled and shamed. Not by my husband, and not but your venefica whore."
"Watch your tongue."
"I just wanted you to love me. Why could you just love me?"
~
"They say he's cursed." King Gregory looked away from the King and Queen when he heard a voice call out from the distance. Lady Volakis walked out onto the balcony, beside King Gregory, and also looked at the same spot. She continued, "Forever destined to repeat the pattern. He rescues the fair maiden yet they never find true love. That is why he could not just love her."
King Gregory snorted. "The girl should thank you."
"How many have died in childbirth? Six," Lady Volakis paused. "No, six children have died but only five wives. Poor, Bonnie survived only to have her wits snapped from the grief."
"He keeps her in a small castle by the sea. Still visits, too, to rest flowers on Hector’s grave, but had the marriage annulled."
"Yet no one asks you why? You, the man who knows everything, the man who only sees the truth, and cannot tell a lie." Lady Volakis said, "Tell me, Your Highness, why do all his wives die in childbirth?"
King Gregory eyed Lady Volakis. "The world works in mysterious ways. And because if I shall never be happy neither shall he."
"And if he couldn't parade his conquests he'd have no legitimate reason to request your presence."
“I would think of something to keep him.” King Gregory looked at her. "And no one asks you why. You're confident for a woman carrying a death warrant."
"I am not his wife," Lady Volakis smiled.
"How astute. Why him?"
"He makes me feel safe, respected, loved." She said, “He is the first I’ve never wanted to enchant, at least, not with herbs and potions. Not in the ways of my legacy.”
“And yet you so willingly carry out tradition. Are you planning to send her a robe?”
“She is not innocent, and she should’ve known better.”
Lady Volakis said, after a moment, "You need me. James will never agree to your schemes. Nothing matters to him except securing an heir to his kingdom. A kingdom cannot flourish if its leader cannot devout their full attention to their subjects' needs. And a King cannot do that if he concerns himself only with succession and fears of coup d’états. He needs an heir."
"And once he has his precious heir?"
"Children are so vulnerable in their early years. They need their mother. And it’s always better to have a spare.”
"Or I'll need someone to see to affairs while James and I are preoccupied."
"You redraw the borders to combine the kingdoms, I will provide the heir, and we all will live happily ever after."
"There is no happily ever after."
"Then we will just live ever after."
At that moment, King James entered the room with Teresa in hand. "Gregory!"
King Gregory turned around. King James said, "Teresa says you have slept with her. Is that true?"
King Gregory looks at the girl and said, "I have never slept with Teresa."
"Liar," Queen Teresa said.
"I never lie."
"You twist the truth!" Queen Teresa said, and turned to James. "Ask him if he's slept with Theodora."
"Theodora," King Gregory said with a grin. "Oh, I remember her. A cheap prostitute from Poure. But you are not her. If you were she, you would have lied to His Majesty. And lying to His Majesty is a traitorous act."
Queen Teresa did not have an answer.
~
King James stood in his throne room. Lady Volakis and King Gregory stood off on the corner of the platform, and before them stood Teresa in her true form as Theodora.
"For your crimes of adultery, witchcraft, and high treason, I condemn you to death by decapitation. Your execution is scheduled for tomorrow at dawn."
~
Lady Volakis gave birth to a small girl on a mid-summer evening. The girl was tiny, and she screamed until placed in her father’s arms. On her first birthday, King Gregory presented Princess Dorothea with the rights to his kingdom, and her father made her mother his rightful and legal Queen, with full power and responsibility of a monarch.
And they all lived ever after.