Antipositional Play, Chess Interlude: Chess, #3

By Cathy Draig

The king is an excellent husband for a duke's daughter, so Lady Bethany believed the duke was finally doing something right as a father. Until she answered his summons to the palace and found there was no marriage. Instead, her father ordered her to pose as a servant. Worse than any scheme that came before, the directive emphasizes he doesn't care about her.

 

But now she's at the palace, and her roommate warned her away from a gorgeous man. A wild ride that could end in heartbreak? Surely not if you knew that going in. Yet a lady doesn't pursue libertine soldiers. Although, a lady shouldn't be shunned by her father either. 

 

She knows what she should do - do as she's told and accept her situation. Yet, for twenty-one years, she's accepted her father's rejection time and time again. So for once in her life, would it be so bad to do what she wants? To be a woman and not a tool?

 

Antipositional Play is a stand-alone novel that parallels Knight and Queen. It's not necessary to the main Chess Series story arc, but it contains spoilers, and it should be read after them. 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Cathy Draig
• Release date: Nov 14, 2022
• ISBN: 9798215725382

Book preview

Map of Jador

Map

Click for a high resolution map.

Pronunciation Guide

Continents/Countries:

Cesoli: sess-oh-lee

Jador: jay-door

Frapane: frahh-pane

Enestpon: e-ness-pon (like ponder; the T is silent)

Provinces:

Petidar: pet-i-dar

Uesdar: you-es-dar

Surmdar: sirmm-dar

Fontidar: fon-ti-dar

Sabladar: sab-la-dar

Rocedar: rowshh-dar

Roi: roy

Gods/Godesses:

Filarune: fill-a-rune

Shalltar: shall-tar

Other:

Chakrir: shack-rear

In chess, there is the principle of Positional Play — an overall strategy of placing one’s pieces on the board in the best position to be ready to attack or utilize other tactics to win. A plan that seems to disregard this type of play is referred to as Antipositional Play. Antipositional Play potentially creates a weakness in a player’s position, but the weakness comes from a poor plan, not from the player’s mistakes.

Chapter 1

The explosions from the fireworks intensified the pounding in my head, and I groaned, then pressed the pillow tighter over my ears.

Why did we have to have such a big Year’s End Celebration anyway? It’s not like my father was even in attendance, or that he ever allowed anyone but the servants to participate. Yeah, okay, my brothers came home and it was nice to see them, but still…

There was a knock on the door and I groaned again, but called out, Come in.

The door opened to admit one of the servants. I didn’t know her name, and why should I? She came and handed me a letter. Lady Bethany, a letter from His Grace.

Great, my father was writing. What did he want? I nodded and she retreated. Another firework exploded and I winched. I had a feeling the letter wasn’t going to make my headache any better. I skimmed the first few lines — platitudes about how he hoped I was doing well. Did he really? I’m sure he wanted me to help him out with some new plot.

Then, he said he was in the process of arranging a marriage for me — to Lucian, the King of Jador. The letter dropped from my hand as my mouth dropped open — I didn’t know if it was the headache or just complete surprise. My father was actually arranging a decent marriage for me? Maybe this wasn’t part of some plot, but a father truly caring about his daughter. I picked up the letter and had to shake my head at the signature. Arrogant as ever, he’d signed it George, Duke of Petidar. Not Your father, but his first name and title — like I didn’t know them.

He wanted me to be at the palace by the end of the first week of the year. I sighed. I guess I’d have my things packed and order a carriage. Would I have to stay at an inn on the way, or could we make it there in one day? Uh, an inn. What low, dirty places.

Finally, the fireworks seemed to have stopped. Good, maybe the painkiller I’d taken could actually get a chance to work. I tossed the letter on a chair and laid back on the bed. I’d deal with George’s missive the next day.

∼∗∼∗∼∗∼

Five days later I arrived at the palace. It had taken a few days to pack everything and then we’d left late. We’d stayed at an inn near the Sacred Mountains the previous night. Not an experience I wanted to repeat. I was looking forward to sleeping in a real bed. I wondered how nice the queen’s bedchamber was? Although I was sure it was premature to be wondering that, if I was to be married to the king, they’d be mine soon, right?

My things were taken to my father’s rooms in the palace. From what I understood, while he didn’t officially live at the palace, whenever he was there, he stayed in one particular suite. And that suite was reserved for him, so even if he wasn’t there, no one else used it. I presumed I would be staying there and took a quick look around once I arrived. It was obvious which bedroom Father had chosen — his things were scattered all over the desk in the room. The rest was neat, but only because someone else made it so. I’d seen his room at home before the servants started in the morning — disaster. I never could figure out how he managed to make such a mess in one evening, just to have it cleaned up the next day.

There was a second bedroom, much smaller, and less ornate, but cozy. I suppose the fireplace could have been a bit bigger, and the artwork more the latest style, but it was acceptable. Father arrived about thirty minutes after I did and greeted me with a hug. Which wasn’t unusual, but the look on his face I recognized — he didn’t have good news.

Bethany, I’m glad you’ve arrived.

I sighed to myself. And the use of my full name didn’t bode well either. Good afternoon, Sir.

Come, sit down, I need to discuss some things with you. I nodded and followed him to the sitting area in the front room of the suite. He smiled, but it didn’t reach his eyes. I wanted to just yell at him to spit it out, but that would only delay what he had to say as he admonished me for not having patience. So, I sat quietly, waiting for him to tell me the bad news.

He sat back in the overstuffed chair he’d chosen, steepled his fingers, and sighed. I know I wrote to you that I was working on arranging for you to marry the king. I’m still working on that, but he’s turning out to be more stubborn than I expected.

Okay, so I wouldn’t be getting married soon. A week ago I hadn’t even known it was being discussed, so that was fine. Then, he said, So in the meantime, I’ve arranged for you to have a servant’s position in the palace.

What? I frowned, I’m sorry, did you say a servant’s position?

He nodded. Yes, it’s important that you hide who you truly are and the best way to do that would be to have you pose as a servant.

Hide who I was? Father, I know you have your reasons, but I don’t understand. Why not simply have me return to the estate?

He shifted, then cleared his throat. I need you to be close by, but not let it be known that you’re my daughter. Anything more than that you don’t need to know.

My chest tightened and I blinked back tears as my stomach dropped. I was part of some scheme after all, it appeared. That part didn’t really surprise me. But he didn’t even want to acknowledge I was his daughter? Had I done something to anger him? I nodded then said quietly, Yes, Father.

He gave me another smile, this one more insincere than the last. It’s only for a short while. I’ve arranged for you to stay in quarters with Mary, one of the supervisors of the household staff. She knows who you are and will be able to help you get adjusted.

Once more I nodded. Then, he motioned to a servant standing by the door who nodded and left. A moment later, a pretty woman in servants’ clothes came into the room. She was average height with ash blond hair pulled back into a French braid. She smiled at me — a genuine smile at least — and the laugh lines around her hazel eyes told me she smiled frequently. She, You must be Bethany. I’m Mary. Please come with me, I’ll show you to your room.

My father simply nodded at me and I clenched my jaw and swallowed hard. I followed Mary as we wound our way through what felt like half the palace before she arrived at the servants’ wing. Her quarters were the first room on the hall and were nice, I supposed. I’d expected them to be stark and plain, but she had fancied them up a bit with a rug on the floor and some art on the walls.

The plain bed was clearly mine. She said, It’s the standard sheets at the moment, but we can certainly get you something more to your liking later. Not as fancy as the ones for the suites of course, but nicer than the standard anyway. And if at some point you want to add some artwork or other things, that’s fine too.

I nodded, then sank down to sit on the bed. I tried to blink back tears, but one escaped and I angrily brushed it off my cheek. Mary looked at me then came over and sat next to me. What’s wrong, dear?

I’m…I’m the daughter of a duke and he wants me to pose as a servant? I — I’m the one with servants.

She gave me a penetrating look. You’ll have to get over that attitude right quick, Missy. However, that’s not the real problem is it?

I shook my head then whispered, He doesn’t even want anyone to know I’m his daughter. Is — is he ashamed of me? The tears wouldn’t stay back any more and started running down my face. I choked out, "I know he’s always got some reason for what he does, but he’s my father. I thought — thought that maybe he finally cared about me."

Mary put her arm around my shoulders and pulled me close. She said gently, I’m sorry he’s doing this to you. When I met him last week, I thought it was an odd request, but of course it’s not my place to say anything. Although I also thought you knew about it. I didn’t realize he just blindsided you with it.

I pulled a handkerchief out of a pocket in my skirt and wiped my eyes. I guess I just have to accept it — like I’ve accepted every other plot and plan he’s involved me in. I blew out a breath. Do I have any other choice?

She tilted her head and looked at me. There is one upside to him wanting to hide who you are. I gave her a confused look. He won’t interact with you that much, and I doubt he’ll keep a close watch on you. Yes, you have to work as a servant, but I think you’ll be surprised by how much more freedom you’ll have.

I had doubts, but I’d never really paid attention to the servants before. I guess I was going to have to get over that attitude right quick. I nodded. So…where do I start?

She smiled. We get you some clothes. I’m sure whatever you brought with you is nice like what you’re wearing. That won’t do at all.

I nodded again and followed her back through the halls to a store room. As we came to a junction in the hallway, I saw two men standing talking. From their uniforms, they had to have been members of the Shield Guard. The first looked serious and a bit stern, although not unattractive. But the other man had a smile on his face — his incredibly good-looking face. Dark brown hair with a loose curl, brown eyes, and a neatly trimmed anchor beard…I almost ran into Mary when she stopped abruptly.

She whispered, Lts. Alecks and Anders. Alecks is calm and steady, Anders is…carefree and…expressive.

I frowned. What does that mean, exactly?

She took my arm and steered me further down the hall, away from the two men. She said in an undertone, That means you should stay away, is what that means.

Why? Is he taken?

She shook her head. "The day that man settles down will be one to mark on the calendar. Don’t get me wrong — he only dates one woman at a time. But, not for very long."

I gave her a half smile, Bit of a libertine, is he?

She snorted. That’s an understatement. I don’t doubt it would be a whirlwind, and one wicked ride as you spun, but then when the wind dies, you’ll be the one left behind. If you’re lucky, you’ll still be intact. More likely you’ll be nursing a broken heart.

On the other hand, if you knew that going in, and just wanted a wild ride you could protect your heart. At least I thought so. Never having been on any kind of ride, wild or not, I didn’t know for sure. After all, I was supposed to save myself for marriage. If I ever got married that was. At twenty-one I probably should have been married for a couple of years already.

I sighed and nodded, then followed Mary into the store room to get some new clothes.

Chapter 2

Over the next week, I settled into the routine at the palace. It wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. It turned out that Mary was absolutely right — I had way more freedom than I expected. As a servant, I faded into the background. And it quickly became apparent that very few people actually cared to know my name. Which was both freeing and humbling. I realized that I’d been pretty shitty to the servants I’d had.

Mid-week I decided to send a note to my father to inquire if he’d like to see me. I received no reply. On the positive side, I saw Lt. Anders several times throughout the week, and every time I was struck by just how handsome he was.

Friday morning, I took a load of folded towels from the laundry to the storeroom. Usually, I’d use a cart and the dumbwaiter, but the carts were all in use and it was only an armload of towels, so I decided to just carry them. As I walked, I finally accepted that I wasn’t going to get a reply from my father. I felt tears prick my eyes and I clenched my jaw to hold back sobs. The stupid tears wouldn’t stay back though, and I wasn’t paying close attention as I reached a junction in the hallway. I went to turn and ran into Anders — literally.

Fortunately, he managed to grab the towels before they hit the floor, but one would need to be refolded. I sniffed and said, Thank you. I’m so sorry for running into you. I should have looked around the corner.

He smiled, what seemed to be a kind smile. It’s quite alright. And usually, I would introduce myself before helping someone with a load of towels, but alas, I didn’t have that opportunity this time. I wasn’t sure if that was a true attempt at humor, but then he said quietly, Alright, that clearly wasn’t funny. But, you did stop crying for a moment at least.

I shrugged. I appreciate the thought, anyway. By the way, my name is Beth. Beth Williams. I almost forgot the last name, but I figured the more I said it, the easier it would be to remember that’s who I was supposed to be.

Anders.

I managed a small smile. Just Anders?

He nodded. Yes. Well, I suppose you could add my title and get Lt. Anders, but no last name.

That was odd, but I’m sure there was a reason. And it certainly wasn’t my business to ask personally, or even my place as a social equal. As a duke’s daughter, I could probably flirt and try to ask slyly, but as a servant? No. Of course, thinking about my father started the stupid tears again. I’m sorry, I really should be getting these towels to the storeroom. It was nice meeting you.

He frowned, but then nodded and stepped back. I couldn’t decide if I was happy he’d let me go, or slightly offended that he hadn’t asked me what was wrong. Ignoring a damsel in distress wasn’t a way to endear yourself to women. I’d gotten several steps down the hallway when I heard him behind me as he caught up with me.

He said quietly, I apologize, I was rude — or at least dismissive. Please feel free to tell me to go away, but I don’t mind helping you carry those towels if you’d like a few moments to collect yourself. Or share what’s wrong.

I paused and nodded, then he reached out to take the towel that needed to be refolded, quickly refolded it, put it back on the stack, then took the entire stack from me. With my hands free, I was able to get my handkerchief from my pocket and wipe my eyes. I said quietly, I sent a letter to my father and he’s apparently decided it’s not worth taking his time to respond to me. I paused and wiped fresh tears from my eyes. He helped me get this position…you’d think he’d want to at least know how I was doing.

He nodded. That does seem rather…rude, to say the least.

I sighed. I guess it’s not completely unexpected. He does have a reputation for being an ass — well earned, unfortunately. He doesn’t usually ignore me like this, though.

Perhaps he simply got busy?

I scoffed. He lives in Roi. He could stop by the palace some afternoon, or send a quick note with a time he could see me. I didn’t even get a one sentence reply.

I’m sorry, that isn’t how a father should treat his daughter. At least that’s my opinion. It’s certainly not the way my father treats my sister.

We reached the storeroom and I nodded, then took the towels from him to put on a shelf. When I turned around to thank him again, he gave me a small bow and smiled. I hope your day improves.

Thank you for your assistance. And for listening.

You’re welcome.

He turned to leave and I called out, Wait.

He turned back around with a question on his face. I knew it was probably crazy, but at that moment I felt like crazy was a good idea. I walked up to him, then stood on my tip-toes and kissed him gently on the lips.

His eyes widened, but he didn’t seem to know what to say. I felt my cheeks heat and I stammered out, I’m — I’m sorry. I — I shouldn’t have done that. I don’t know what I was thinking.

He smiled gently. I wouldn’t say it’s a hardship to get a kiss from a beautiful woman. Certainly unexpected, though.

My cheeks heated even more as I realized he wasn’t really responding to me. I’d expected flirting, or maybe a kiss back, given his reputation. Was he currently with someone? I nodded then said, Again, I apologize. I clearly jumped to an erroneous conclusion.

He caught my gaze and shook his head slightly. Not entirely. He leaned over and kissed me on the cheek. Have a good weekend, Miss Beth. Then he walked away.

I swallowed, feeling stupid. I whispered, It’s actually Lady Bethany…but would knowing that make any difference? I walked back into the storeroom, closed the door behind me, and slid down against it, letting the tears loose, my shoulders shaking with sobs. My father didn’t want to talk to me, and a famous libertine had kissed me on the cheek in response to my kiss on the lips. I felt quite small and alone.

∼∗∼∗∼∗∼

It turned out that Mary spent her days off visiting her sister just outside of Roi, on the mainland. Which left me alone for the entire weekend. Not exactly a mood booster when I was already feeling alone.

I laid on my bed and stared at the ceiling. I sighed — wasn’t I just the stereotype of a lonely, depressed, single woman? But surely there was something I could do with myself? I didn’t have access to most of my wardrobe, unless I wanted to go to my father’s suite anyway. I did have the dress I’d arrived in, though. It wasn’t fancy, but it was much nicer than the servant’s uniform I wore while working.

Decision made, I changed into my other dress and tried to do something with my hair. I shook my head as I realized once again that I took my servants for granted. If I ever had the opportunity again, I’d do better.

I made my way towards the fancier part of the palace, a small part of me hoping to run into my father. If I did, I hoped he was alone, or he’d probably dismiss me. I came to a cross hallway — the same one where I’d run into Anders earlier — and this time I looked around the corner before I stepped out.

I was a bit surprised to see Anders once again in the hallway. Although it was one of the main hallways, so I guess it wasn’t that unusual. I wondered if he’d recognize me as I slowly turned the corner. When he saw me, he smiled and tipped his hat, then stopped and said, I see this time you looked before turning the corner.

I smiled back. I thought maybe you wouldn’t recognize me.

I’ll admit it did take me a moment. Are you heading anywhere in particular?

I shook my head. Hoping to find something to do. My roommate apparently stays with her sister on the weekends, so I found myself alone. I paused and closed my eyes briefly. Sorry, unnecessary information. He was very good-looking and I had to stop myself from staring at him for too long. Are you on duty? I’m surprised you’re wearing your uniform.

It took me a moment to realize I’d asked the question. Where had that come from? Oh, yeah, maybe the thought about what he’d look like out of said uniform. He smiled, Getting off duty, but as long as we’re in the palace, we wear them on duty or not.

Oh, that makes sense. I felt kind of dumb for asking, actually.

Did you want to walk, or continue to stand in the same place in the hallway?

I shrugged. I don’t mind walking, but I don’t have a particular destination in mind.

I’m heading for the stable, so perhaps we could walk at least that far together.

I smiled. Sure.

We fell into step next to each other. As we got closer to the main parts of the palace, we came upon another cross hallway. Where we passed my father. Who barely looked at us and gave a curt nod. As he continued on without stopping I said under my breath, Fucking rude.

Anders glanced at me. Do you know him? I mean, no offense, but you seemed to actually expect a response.

Shit. I shook my head quickly. No. But he could have a least said, ‘Hello,’ couldn’t he?

He chuckled. "Sorry, clearly you don’t know him. The Duke of Petidar — not exactly known for having a…cheerful demeanor."

I snorted. If that’s a nice way of saying that he’s an ass, that’s not very hard to imagine.

He laughed. Yes, that was a nice way of saying he’s an ass.

He had quite a nice laugh, and his full smile lit up his face. Too bad he hadn’t been interested in more, because I would like see that expression directed at me way more often. We were almost to the stable, but I wanted to spend more time with him. I was quiet, desperately trying to think of something to say, when he looked at me and said, You have that look on your face.

I started. I’m sorry, what look?

The one that says you want to try kissing me again.

I shook my head. I may have acted momentarily crazy, but I’m not completely crazy. I got the message the first time. I paused, then asked, Although, just so I know, was I wrong because you’re not actually single?

He shook his head. No, I’m single. I’m also pretty sure you’re not fully aware what you’re asking for.

I stopped and frowned. What’s that supposed to mean?

He stopped as well and lowered his voice, What that means is that you don’t carry yourself like a servant, and I suspect that’s not where you started. Which means your father, whether or not he talks to you, is expecting you to remain…inexperienced…until he finds you a husband.

My heart sped up and I narrowed my eyes. "And what if I don’t give a fuck what my father wants? What if I know exactly what I want, and exactly what I was doing when I kissed you?"

He took a deep breath and shook his head slowly. Then I would ask — do you see me or the rumors about me that I’m sure you’ve been filled in on?

Now I was ticked. I’m a woman, Lieutenant, not a little girl who needs to be coddled. So be honest — are you flat out refusing me, or only trying to talk me out of my interest because you don’t believe me?

He didn’t say anything, just looked at me. After a long moment, I’d had enough. I stepped closer to him, grabbed the front of his jacket,