The Land of Grimney - The Illustrated Adventures of Cora Pearl, aged 12

*Philomena breathes a sigh of relief*

A quick death... that is far preferable. We should be merciful to those we can't spare. Besides, I think the poor creature has suffered too much already.

*She looks at Darl sadly*

Even here I could hear the screams. I know you wished to punish him for endangering my life, but I dislike torture of any kind. It is not my way.

*The mermaid looks from her husband to her lover*

I am sure Vortigern will not cross any boundaries, he is rather attached to his manhood I believe. He wouldn't risk that just to flirt with me... I find jealousy such an odd human emotion.

*Philomena pours Darl a glass of wine and then pours one for Vortigern. She hands the wine to them and then pours one for herself.*

Now let's all take some wine together before we watch Vortigern... demonstrate his loyalty.

*She looks at Vortigern and gives a sad smile. He alone can see the fear in her eyes as Darl strokes the back of her neck.*

I am glad you will make it quick, I am just sorry it must be done at all. I am sure the man had his reasons for what he did and that he did not really want to cause me harm... but at least now I have you... a bodyguard that I trust to protect me. Some good will come of this sad day.

*Her hands tremble as she drinks the wine. She stares out of the window. *

At least it will all be over soon... and then perhaps you two will become friends.

*She beams at Darl and gets up on her tiptoes to kiss his cheek.*

That would make me very happy.

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*Philomena watches as Vortigern bolts the door behind Darl. She pours another glass of wine and gives a wry smile*

Under my protection? That does not bode well for you my darling. People always said I would be the ruin of you.

*The mermaid sighs*

So you have met Darl now... I won't ask if you like him.

*She glances at herself in the mirror*

Why do humans insist on wearing so many clothes? It is very uncomfortable and I can barely breathe in this corset. I am sure that most men find my shape pleasing without the need for such torture. I suppose we must go down to the execution soon... I am glad you will not skin him. What Darl said earlier...

*The mermaid kisses Vortigern's cheek*

Do you want to resist my seductive nature? If you do... I promise to be a good girl. Darl would never kill me for my infidelity, but he would make sure you were punished for the both of us.

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Like it or not, Darl is my husband and nothing will change that. I can't stop him touching me. I have found it easier to pretend to enjoy them, he gets angry when I reject him and I can't bear his rage. You never could stand the idea of another man touching me... but when Darl comes to my bed you must go and find pleasure elsewhere and forget about me.

*She smiles at Vortigern*

I think we seduced each other.

*The mermaid looks sad*

I can never be yours. You're an outlaw and I am a Princess. You chose your path and I was born to mine. But at least here... in private... we can snatch a few moments when we are each other's.

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It's not just to please my father, it is to win the war. Can't you see that it Karina is ever to be safe then the High Council and the Chaos Engine must be destroyed? This marriage also brings peace between Grimney and Kanara. Surely you must see that I have to be Darl's wife?

*She looks out the window and sighs *

If they lose, I will be killed. The High Council won't spare me or my daughter.

*She looks back at Vortigern*

And I will be married to Darl for the rest of his life, not mine. I never age and die remember. You don't need to protect me from a few bruises and humiliations, Darl will never kill me. I... I think if I was a better wife to him, more loving and obedient, then he would take less pleasure in my suffering. Maybe one day I will even grow to love him... I don't know why it bothers you anyway, you would never want to get married to me and be a family man, so why not content yourself by being my lover?

*Philomena gently strokes his face and kisses him with a sad smile*

I thought you regarded being my bodyguard as a demotion from outlaw? You were angry about me asking for a pardon. When the Queen is carving up the High Council's property I will have you made a Lord if you want.

*She pours herself some wine*

Whatever you are planning, you must forget. I need Darl to win this war. Befriend him if you must but do not do anything that would put me and Karina in danger. After the war... perhaps we can find a way to escape him. No murder.

*A solemn bell tolls*

Sounds like it is time for you to go and please Darl by cutting a throat.

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*Juna is waiting for the Princess to arrive. She carries a tray of wine, exotic fruits and a vase of flowers*

Master Avalay thought you might like some refreshments. Ethella Day is not to serve you until see has been cleared.

*She whispers in the mermaid's ear*

I am not supposed to tell you but she has been taken to be interrogated by Master Grevil.

*Juna shakes her head*

Serves her right for doing that corset so tight. The other maids spoke to Master Avalay about it, they thought she was being unnecessarily cruel.

*The maid helps the Princess out of her corset and dress. She notices Vortigern gazing at Philomena's naked body and laughs*

Don't let Darl Thranmere catch you looking at his wife like that. You'll lose your manhood.

*Juna pulls a diaphanous blue gown over the Princess*

You always look more natural in mermaid fashion, Your Grace.