Chapter Two: The Monarch: Part Three

"I really don't understand this... fascination you have with nature," The monarch said, plucking leaves out of her hair.

"I find it very peaceful," Aldric said.

"I suppose it is, if you are that sort of person," She said. "But alas, there is to many bright colors and flowers out here for someone like me."

Aldric pulled out some bread from his bag. "Forgive the meal, it is not what you are used to eating, mother."

"I am sure it is fine, if you are eating it."

Aldric tried to suppress a smile. He knew she would hate it as soon as it entered her mouth.

She spat it out. "What is this? It is tasteless and dry."

"It was better this morning, when it was warm. I fear it has gone stale."

The monarch threw the bread out, far into the field. "The only thing that is good for is the birds, and only because it would be an enjoyment to watch them choke on it."

"The bread is fine for human consumption."

Her back straightened. "Are you disagreeing with me. Me, who is your Monarch?"

"All that I am saying is that the bread was still very edible."

The monarch's eyes filled with fury, and then she raised her hand and slapped Aldric across the jaw. "You shall not disagree with your monarch."

Aldric rubbed his now red jaw as his mother stomped off.

"Great," He mumbled to himself, picking at a piece of cheese.

It didn't take long for him to forget about his mother's anger. Soon his thoughts wondered to the green eyed boy in the cell, Randolf. He tried to puzzle out a way to help him escape. He didn't deserve to die there. He had done nothing wrong.