The Masqueraders

Ch. 1

The sun was shining brightly and the birds were singing. Truly a splendid day. Even the trees, after a glorious summer, were beginning to succumb to an even more magnificently frigid autumn. Just the time to get in this sort of position she was in.

She had hoped that the jewels would at least solve some of her financial problems. It was after, at least, a days travel from her estate that she realized that if she so much as sold one blasted stone they would most likely have a better lead to follow.

The worst of her affairs was that she had only dozen pounds left off her allowance and it was the beginning of the autumn season. If she were to survive it, well then it would next be winter that she would have to tackle. She was beginning to wonder why her parents had been so lenient to her attending mass. Maybe she should start praying.

'No' she thought grimly 'All that would do is ruin my dress.' She had only two other dresses accompanying her person. Not to mention the fact that she was missing a fussy nurse, or maid. She had never felt more free! Taking in a deep breath and then letting it out slowly. It sounded more like freedom than anything else. Yet there was Gourry…..

Such frivolities were to be forgotten, thought. She no longer had the time, nor money, for pleasantries. Such as…….. A mound, no pile…… No a TOWER of food. She squealed in delight. She needed to get into the trade business quickly. Not so much as to by shelter, but food. She didn't care if she were to live on the street just as long as she had her food.

Turning around to face the blond swordsman , who was at the moment chasing a monarch butterfly, she brought her hand to her lips and said……er… barked one word….. "Gourry!"