Ni-hao! This is "Harvest Moon."
Prequel to the Eclipse series. Lady Calico Briggs is one of the most sought after she-kats for marriage due to her large dowry. But she has been picky. So when her father sends her to Countess Lee, she meets Lord Ulysses Feral. And their courtship...and their history...begins.
Author's notes: My first pure romance!
This is the first of two prequels of the Eclipse universe. The SWAT Kats will have their own story. If you haven't already read them, you might want to read them to better understand the AU.
But for those who didn't, here are some key terms:
Callie is a witch, but she prefers to be called a sorceress. Feral is a dunpeal, which is a half-vampire, half-kat. He only comes out a night, since he has sensitivity to the sun.
This prequel in particular is an apology to my Eclipse: House of the Daemon readers. I am so sorry for not continuing to write on that! I will finish that story, though. It's just the matter of figuring out some plot details...
This series will be two or three chapters.
Special thanks to Renee Twist (and Timmy!) and KS Claw for helping and giving me ideas.
As always, send any comments or questions to AkaneKitty@aol.com. Or, drop me a line in my review section at Fanfiction.net. Enjoy!
Ja ne,
AkaneKitty
*************
Harvest Moon:
Crescent Moon
*************
The Harvest Moon.
Starting every six months, the Harvest Moon, in addition to being one of the brightest full moons, is a warlock or witch's courting season. If everything goes well, there is marriage. If not, then the process starts all over again.
And as one couple found out, one does not have to be warlock or witch to court...
...Dunpeals and witches work just fine as well...
*****************************************************************
Dear Diary,
It is almost time for the Harvest Moon, our courting season. Daddy is making noises about it, but I am unmoved. The Harvest Moon has been nothing but a disaster for. The warlocks here are so boorish, talking about their lands and taxes all the time. Have these gentlekats even opened a book for pleasure for once? You would think they would want something else to talk about...like stars.
Calico Briggs
***********************************************************
"Are you interested in any of the warlocks, dear?"
"No, mother. They are too boring for my tastes."
Lady Camilla Briggs sighs as her daughter, Lady Calico Briggs, casually flips through a book. The Ladies of the House of Briggs wore the traditional floor length dresses composed of the family colors of pink and purple. Callie was the splitting image of her mother, who wearily continued to set dishes on the table.
"Really, Callie...I'm sure that they're all not boring..."
Callie gently closes her book, and then reaches upward to place an escaped piece of hair back into its pinned position. "Mother, they can't talk about anything but lands, taxes, and wars. And I doubt they've read anything for pleasure in ages."
Camilla sighs again. "You're being difficult."
"I learned from the best."
"Callie...please."
"Mother, I am not doing the Harvest Moon."
"And, why not?"
Callie nearly drops her book when the tall frame of her father, Lord Trenton Briggs, walks into the room. He looks at her.
"You are twenty-two years old. I would think your large dowry would bring lots of suitors." The light colored kat crosses his arms.
"It didn't."
"Callie, if you don't make an effort soon, I will have to consider arranging your marriage."
"You wouldn't!" Callie reddens.
"Dear, the House of Briggs hasn't arranged a marriage in years!" Camilla speaks up. "The other Houses have been trying to get away from that!"
"We are the leading House for all Warlocks and Sorceresses." Trenton says. "I'm sure we could get away with it."
Callie turns away. Trenton unfolds his arms.
"However, I can't do anything about it this Harvest Moon." Trenton turns to Camilla. "The Order has called an emergency meeting in Avalon. The dunpeals have been making noises again. We must go."
"I see." Camilla nods. "But what about Callie?"
"I have arranged for her to visit Countess Lee. She agreed to accept Callie for a while. I'm sure the meeting between the Warlocks will be a long conference."
"But, she'll be close to Lord Feral..."
"I must risk that, even though I hate that his lands borders Lee's." Trenton sighs. "But, Lee is an ally, and Callie will be in good paws."
"So, I don't have to do the Harvest Moon?" Callie speaks up.
"No. But I will use this time to decide your future." Trenton turns away. "So, pack well."
Callie glares at his back, but does a small curtsey.
"Yes, father."
************************************************************
"The Warlocks have called an emergency meeting in Avalon. Apparently, they do not like that some of their lands want to return to our rule."
The various dunpeals, Lords and Ladies alike, grumble at the news. They had gathered at their leading House's manor: The House of Feral.
"It figures. They are never satisfied."
"I'm sure they're discussing war. Sometimes they act so uncivilized."
"And most of it is their fault. They raise taxes with nary a thought to the katizens...What do you think, Ulysses? What shall we do?"
Lord Ulysses Feral looks at his allies from his position at the head of the table. He causally tucks a rouge strand of his hair back into his ponytail.
"Ladies and gentlekats, I urge that we show extreme restraint. War wouldn't be good for either party. And it brings innocent katizens into our disagreements."
"The katizens already see that we do them no harm." One of the Lords speaks up. "That can be used in our favor."
Feral nods. "I shall consult our neutral party, Countess Lee, about this matter. Until then, refrain from any retaliation."
******************************************************************
Dear Diary,
I am writing this on the way to Countess Lee's manor. The Harvest Moon is fast approaching, and I have no desire to humor my parents. My mother did force me to take my crystal though...but what I desire more is a Knight that values me for me...and not my dowry.
Calico Briggs.
******************************************************************
Days later...
"Hello, Calico. Have a nice trip?"
"Yes, thank you."
Countess Lee, the graceful, elderly, dunpeal, watches as Callie exits her father's carriage. Lee's servants help to unload Callie's luggage.
"I'm glad to have you as a guest." Lee says. "But, please remember that I border Feral's lands. He's a friend of mine, and may stop by at any time."
Callie nods, clutching her purse. "I know. I have no quarrel with him."
Lee raises an eyebrow at that. "Oh?"
"That is between him and my father. I could care less about their fighting." Callie crosses her arms. "They could kill each other in a duel and I *still* wouldn't care!"
"How come?"
"Simple. My dad is planning to arrange a marriage for me. I choose my own ways, thank you very much!"
"I see..." Lee turns away. "I'm sure you're tired from your trip. My servants will show you to room. And, you can join me for tea later."
"Thank you."
***************************************************************
Later...
Callie joins Lee for tea in one of Lee's sunrooms. The dunpeal wasn't sensitive to the light like some other dunpeals, so she could enjoy it. Callie smoothes her skirts.
"I'm sorry that I snapped at you earlier, Countess." Callie apologizes. "It's just that my father and I haven't been on the best of terms lately."
"It's perfectly alright, Callie." Lee pours herself a cup of tea. "I know the Harvest Moon season can be quite stressful."
Callie nods, reaching into her purse. She pulls out a piece of crystal. "I don't know why mother made me take the crystal. It's not like I'm going to meet any kats around here..."
Lee smiles. "Oh? I wouldn't be so sure about that, dear. You never know."
"If you can find me a non-boring warlock, let me know."
"Who said it had to be a warlock?"
Callie looks at her. Lee continues to smile, and pushes a book towards Callie. "I know you love reading about the stars. So, I found this book in my library."
"Thank you!" Callie eagerly takes the book.
"There's a clear night tonight. Why don't you try to find some of those constellations tonight?" Lee asks. "That book should be able to help."
"I will! Thank you so much!"
"My pleasure." Lee takes a sip of her tea.
*********************************************************
That night...
The moon had risen, even though a few clouds hid it. That allowed many stars to be seen.
Countess Lee leans against the railing of her personal balcony, when she hears footsteps. She smiles.
"Welcome back, Ulysses... What brings you by?"
"...I want to talk about Trenton Briggs."
Lee nods wisely as Feral leans over the railing to look at her gardens. "I hear that he's meeting in Avalon with his fellow warlocks. Something about disputed lands."
"A tax increase ordered by his lordship himself has upset katizens so much that they want to revert their towns back to my rule." Feral sighs. "I gave up those lands to create a bigger buffer zone between us."
"And, Trenton is convinced you put the katizens up to it."
"That's the gist of it."
"I see... What do your friends think?"
"They want to kill him...and, that's not a bad idea at this point."
Lee couldn't help but laugh. Feral starts to say more, but he sees a blonde haired she-kat exits Lee's manor, holding a book. She then proceeds to one of Lee's gardens. "Visitors, Lee?"
"Hmm? Oh, yes." Lee also looks over the railing. "Lady Calico Briggs... Trenton's daughter."
"Really?" Feral continues to watch. "Who would think that idiot would have such a beautiful daughter."
"So you've noticed."
"But, I am surprised he would leave his daughter so close to me...I am your neighbor."
"And, I am neutral." Lee says. "Calico's rumored large dowry has many warlocks clamoring for her paw...and she has been rejecting every one. Trenton left her here partially because of his business in Avalon, and partially to decide what to do about those marriage proposals."
"I see..."
"So, be a gentlekat and introduce yourself to her."
"Eh?" Feral takes a step back from the railing. "What for?"
"Because you want to." Lee smiles, and walks away.
*************************************************************
"Hmm... Where's an easy constellation to spot..."
Callie sits on a bench in Lee's gardens, a lone lamp illuminating the area. She flips through her book and then glances up at the star studded sky.
"Just how am I going to find a constellation? There are too many stars out!"
"...There's not enough light out, milady."
"Pardon?" Startled, and nearly dropping her book, Callie spins around to face the voice. A tall kat emerges from the shadows. He wore regal clothes consisting of the colors of white with black highlights, and his eyes glowed. He stops by the bench.
"Too little light." The kat says, tucking a rouge stand of black hair back into his long ponytail. "If there's not enough light, you won't be able to see the patterns. Too much, and you won't be able to say any at all."
"So I see. I'll keep that in mind." Callie pretends to read the book as she attempts to get a better look at the kat. He looked familiar...
"But, I'm forgetting my manners. I'm Lord Ulysses Feral." The kat bows deeply to her. "A pleasure to meet you, milady."
"A pleasure to meet you as well." Callie extends her paw to Feral. "Lady Calico Briggs. I'm sure you know that name well."
"I do." Feral kisses the back of Callie's paw, but he didn't release it right away. "Though, I'm surprised..."
"Oh? Why?"
"You offered your paw to me...despite the history I share with your father." Feral finally releases Callie's paw.
"Milord, I wouldn't hold my father's anger against you... Just as I hope you wouldn't hold your anger for him against me." Callie stands up.
"I wouldn't dream of it."
"But, you are awfully brave to introduce yourself to me. My father wouldn't want you around."
"I don't care about what your father wants."
"It's your funeral then, milord."
"...Or his." Feral smiles. "Besides, he's miles away in Avalon...so I've heard. And besides, he won't know about me unless you tell him."
Callie quietly smiles at that, and then notices the time on one of Lee's garden clocks. "I assume a dunpeal such as yourself has sensitivity to the sun."
"I have."
"Such a shame. I would have enjoyed walking with you tomorrow." Callie starts to walk towards the manor.
Feral didn't know what to think. "...You would?"
"However..." Callie pauses and turns to face Feral. "If you show me a constellation tomorrow night, I would enjoy that as well."
"I would be honored."
"Until tomorrow, then," Callie does a small curtsey, "Good night, milord."
Feral smiles again as Callie enters the manor. "Pleasant dreams..."
***************************************************************
Dear Diary,
I meet Lord Ulysses Feral tonight. A very interesting kat. He didn't quake with fear at the mention of my father...and was surprised that I offered my paw to him. But, at least he didn't talk about wars...it was about stars.
I even surprised myself by agreeing to meet him again tomorrow night. I wonder what I'm getting myself into...
Calico Briggs
****************************************************************
The moon was shifting into its full moon phase, and Callie sits on one of Lee's many balconies, waiting for Feral. She was just finishing her tea when Feral pulls up to the balcony in his horse-drawn carriage.
"Sorry I'm late, milady." Feral calls to her.
"What are you doing?" Callie walks up to the balcony's edge.
"You wanted to see a constellation, so I thought I'd take you to this spot I know." Feral says. "You can see a lot of the patterns there."
"I barely know you, milord."
"Thinking I might do you harm, milady?"
Callie hesitates. "No...But..."
Feral grips the reigns controlling his horses. "Well, I can understand it since your father doesn't trust or like me..."
"My father has nothing to do with this!"
"Then come with me. I will not go out of the bounds of Lee's lands." Feral offers his paw upwards toward Callie. "So..."
Callie places her paws on her hips. "You drive a hard bargain, milord."
Feral smiles at that. "I will do you no harm, milady. A Feral does not go back on his word."
Callie thinks for a moment, and then shrugs. "I'll be right down."
*************************************************************
A few minutes later, Callie was sitting besides Feral as he guides his carriage through Lee's gardens. Callie draws her cape around as the dunpeal as Feral urges his horses on in an ancient tongue. Callie was impressed.
"Know the old romance language, milord?" Callie asks after awhile.
"Hmm?" Feral glances at her before returning his attention to guiding his horses. "Oh, yes...This language is one of the few that guides my NightMares."
"And, they are magnificent." Callie admires the jet-black steeds.
"Thank you...So you know language?"
"Yes. I am an educated lady."
"So I see..."
"I've always loved NightMares." Callie continues. "They're so graceful."
"If you like them that much, you can find my herd going through Lee's gardens almost daily." Feral says. "Lee always gets onto me when they trample too much off of the paths."
Callie laughs lightly. "I will look for them, then."
Feral smiles, and then pulls back on his reigns. "We're here."
"Wow..." Callie looks up at the star-studded sky.
"Here there is just enough light. Even though the moon is trying to overpower the sky somewhat."
"I can see some patterns..."
"If you can see three stars in a row, it makes up Orion's belt."
"I can't quite see it."
"Here." Feral gently guides Callie closer to him and points with his right paw. "See it now?"
"Yes...Oh!" Callie pulls herself from Feral's grasp.
"I'm sorry." Feral says. "Did I make you uncomfortable?"
Callie turns away to hide her blush. "No...It's not that..."
"A gentlekat shouldn't have done that." Feral grabs his reigns and begins to head to head back to Lee's manor. "Forgive me."
Callie shakes her head. "A lady shouldn't be so easily flustered."
"But..."
"But?"
Feral looks at her. "It was a very cute blush."
Callie smiles at that. "Are you trying to enchant me, milord?"
"Me?" Feral feigns shock. "Milady, I wouldn't dream of it. Even if I had the ability."
"You...can't enchant me?"
"No. Vampires might have been able to, but I am a dunpeal." Feral urges his horses to trot. " Feral's like things the old fashioned way."
Callie starts to say more, but they were already back at Lee's manor. Callie was slightly disappointed.
"Well, I have returned you safely." Feral says.
"So you have." Callie gathers her cape. "I enjoyed myself."
"As did I."
"I..." Callie turns away slightly. "I look forward to seeing you again."
Feral is shocked. "Really?"
"Really." Callie leans in close and gives Feral a peck on the cheek. "Help me down, please."
Feral, still slightly in shock, offers her his paw, and Callie steps down from the carriage. She turns back to him and does a small curtsey.
"Good night, milord. See you again soon."
Callie walks into to the manor, and Feral is left holding his cheek.
*********************************************************
Dear Diary,
Tonight I spent more time with Lord Feral looking at the stars. And, I didn't want it to end for some reason. He was truly a gentlekat, and had something more to talk about than the warlocks.
I also snuck a glace at my crystal after returning. It's beginning to glow. But, I can't be falling in love with a dunpeal...
...Or am I?
Calico Briggs
************************************************************
"Did you enjoy star gazing with Lord Feral?"
"Yes. Very much so."
Callie relaxes in the shade of a tree while Lee begins to prune some of her rose hedges. Smoothing her long skirt around her, Callie leans back against the trunk of the tree.
"Lord Feral is a very interesting kat..."
"You think so?" Lee welds a huge pair of clippers. "I'm sure he'll be happy to hear you say that."
Callie closes her book. "Really?"
"Yes. And, I'm sure he finds you interesting as well."
Callie blushes at that. "Well..."
Lee smiles. "Do you like him?"
"I...I have *no* idea..."
"Best to consult your crystal on such matters, dear." Lee moves on to another bush.
"Perhaps..." Callie sighs, and stands up. She then hears the thundering of hooves against the earth. "Is that the NightMares?"
"Yes. Probably heading towards the stream for a drink." Lee begins to clip faster. "Why don't you look?"
"I will!"
***************************************************************
A few minutes later, Callie was making her way towards Lee's stream. The sounds neighing and snorting confirmed that the NightMares were close. Callie makes a final push through some bushes.
"Wow..." Callie couldn't believe the sight.
The herd of NightMares was clustered around the stream. Their jet-black coats shined in the sun, and their amber eyes gleamed. They quickly affirmed themselves as Callie's favorite horse.
After a while, Callie spots a NightMare by itself, helping itself to some leaves from one of Lee's hedges. Callie laughs.
"Lee's going to have a fit when she sees that." Callie smiles. "But, I wonder if I could pet him?"
Callie begins to slowly walk towards the NightMare, being careful not to make any sudden movement. The NightMare notices her, and eyes her curiously.
"Hi, there." Callie extends her paw to the horse. "I won't hurt you..."
The horse backs up a little, but doesn't flee. Callie keeps her voice low and murmurs a few words of a calming spell. Finally, she is next to the horse.
"It'll be alright. I just wanted to pet you." Callie strokes the horse's nose. It neighs softly.
After a few moments of this, a loud neigh is heard, and the herd of NightMares begins to move. The NightMare she was petting trots off to join them.
"I hope to see you again soon." Callie calls after it.
The NightMare gives her one last look, and disappears into the herd.
***************************************************************
"Did you see the NightMares, Callie?"
"Yes! And, I even petted one!"
Lee smiles as Callie floats back into Lee's manor. "You're very lucky dear. Most of the time, they don't let strangers pet them."
"Really?" Callie takes a seat.
"Yes...However..."
"Hmm?"
Lee smiles again. "NightMares are in tune to the feelings of their master. So..."
"...So it is reflecting Lord Feral's feelings...towards me?"
"Possibly."
Callie sits back into her chair. "I see."
***************************************************************
Later that night...
The moon was beginning to rise, and once again Callie is in the gardens. Neighing horses interrupt the still night.
"Good evening, milady."
"Good evening." Callie curtseys as Feral arrives on one of his NightMares. He also holds the reigns of a bridled horse.
"I thought we might go horseback ridding this evening." Feral dismounts. "So, I brought along someone familiar."
"This is the horse I petted today!" Callie strokes the bridled horse's nose.
"This is Duzell." Feral hands Callie the reigns. "He is yours for as long as you stay here."
Callie blushes slightly. "Thank you, milord."
"Lee told me that you petted one of my herd. So I figured it had to be Duzell. He's the youngest..." Feral smiles at Callie. "...And he still carries your scent."
Callie blushes again. "Oh? What do I smell like?"
"Sweet. Like candy."
Callie busies herself with petting Duzell's nose as Feral takes out a simple necklace that consisted of an onyx jewel. "Here."
"What's this?" Callie asks as Feral slips the necklace around her neck.
"The Mark of Feral. It will allow you ride with the herd...even though Duzell is pretty fond of you."
Callie looks at the jewel. "Onyx?"
"Yes. It's my family jewel."
"I see..." Callie looks at him. "So, this is the Mark of the House of Feral?"
Feral nods. "Yes..."
Callie narrows her eyes a bit. "It's funny. I thought a dunpeal such as yourself would be giving me a different *mark*."
Feral raises an eyebrow at that. "Oh?"
"But enough of that." Callie moves toward Duzell. "Let's ride."
"Do you need any help?"
"No thanks, milord. I can handle it." Callie says as she mounts Duzell in one smooth motion.
"...Nice."
"Thank you." Callie smiles at Feral as she gains control Duzell's reigns. "Shall we ride?"
****************************************************************
After a while of leisurely horseback riding, Feral and Callie stop by a small pond. The moon had finally risen, illuminating Lee's gardens and the pond glistens. Callie strokes Duzell's nose while Feral let's his horse drink from the pond.
"I was told, milord, that the NightMares are in tune with the feelings of their master." Callie says, looking at the pond.
"They are." Feral replies. "That's why you were able to approach them."
"You flatter me."
"Oh? How so?"
Callie busies herself with Duzell. "That you might..."
Feral smiles, and then takes notice of the moon. "Ah...the Harvest Moon. I just love full moons."
Feral's comment takes Callie completely off guard. How could a dunpeal know about the Harvest Moon?
"How much...do you know about the Harvest Moon, milord?" Callie asks, turning her head away slightly so Feral couldn't se her blushing.
"Hmm... Isn't that the time when sorceress and warlocks court?" Feral looks back at her. "I mean, dunpeals have our own ways of courting, but I like how you do it."
"Really?"
"Yes. So structured. Nice to see how a relationship develops."
"...I see..."
"So, why do you ask, milady?"
Callie is silent for a moment, but reaches into her purse and produces a piece of crystal. She hands it to him.
"Keep it safe, milord." Callie blushes.
Feral looks at her in shock. "Are you...giving me permission to court you, milady?"
"Callie."
"Huh?"
Callie extends her paw to Feral. "Please...call me Callie."
Feral smiles, and kisses the back of her paw. "Then, you must call me Ulysses as well."
Callie smiles, and then runs her paw along Feral's face. "Kats might find it strange to see a sorceress and a dunpeal courting."
"Callie, I don't care about one thinks...except for maybe your father." Feral looks at her. "And, if you don't care, I won't."
Callie looks up at Feral, her eyes taking on a determined glint.
"I don't care...about my father."
To be continued...
Prequel to the Eclipse series. Lady Calico Briggs is one of the most sought after she-kats for marriage due to her large dowry. But she has been picky. So when her father sends her to Countess Lee, she meets Lord Ulysses Feral. And their courtship...and their history...begins.
Author's notes: My first pure romance!
This is the first of two prequels of the Eclipse universe. The SWAT Kats will have their own story. If you haven't already read them, you might want to read them to better understand the AU.
But for those who didn't, here are some key terms:
Callie is a witch, but she prefers to be called a sorceress. Feral is a dunpeal, which is a half-vampire, half-kat. He only comes out a night, since he has sensitivity to the sun.
This prequel in particular is an apology to my Eclipse: House of the Daemon readers. I am so sorry for not continuing to write on that! I will finish that story, though. It's just the matter of figuring out some plot details...
This series will be two or three chapters.
Special thanks to Renee Twist (and Timmy!) and KS Claw for helping and giving me ideas.
As always, send any comments or questions to AkaneKitty@aol.com. Or, drop me a line in my review section at Fanfiction.net. Enjoy!
Ja ne,
AkaneKitty
*************
Harvest Moon:
Crescent Moon
*************
The Harvest Moon.
Starting every six months, the Harvest Moon, in addition to being one of the brightest full moons, is a warlock or witch's courting season. If everything goes well, there is marriage. If not, then the process starts all over again.
And as one couple found out, one does not have to be warlock or witch to court...
...Dunpeals and witches work just fine as well...
*****************************************************************
Dear Diary,
It is almost time for the Harvest Moon, our courting season. Daddy is making noises about it, but I am unmoved. The Harvest Moon has been nothing but a disaster for. The warlocks here are so boorish, talking about their lands and taxes all the time. Have these gentlekats even opened a book for pleasure for once? You would think they would want something else to talk about...like stars.
Calico Briggs
***********************************************************
"Are you interested in any of the warlocks, dear?"
"No, mother. They are too boring for my tastes."
Lady Camilla Briggs sighs as her daughter, Lady Calico Briggs, casually flips through a book. The Ladies of the House of Briggs wore the traditional floor length dresses composed of the family colors of pink and purple. Callie was the splitting image of her mother, who wearily continued to set dishes on the table.
"Really, Callie...I'm sure that they're all not boring..."
Callie gently closes her book, and then reaches upward to place an escaped piece of hair back into its pinned position. "Mother, they can't talk about anything but lands, taxes, and wars. And I doubt they've read anything for pleasure in ages."
Camilla sighs again. "You're being difficult."
"I learned from the best."
"Callie...please."
"Mother, I am not doing the Harvest Moon."
"And, why not?"
Callie nearly drops her book when the tall frame of her father, Lord Trenton Briggs, walks into the room. He looks at her.
"You are twenty-two years old. I would think your large dowry would bring lots of suitors." The light colored kat crosses his arms.
"It didn't."
"Callie, if you don't make an effort soon, I will have to consider arranging your marriage."
"You wouldn't!" Callie reddens.
"Dear, the House of Briggs hasn't arranged a marriage in years!" Camilla speaks up. "The other Houses have been trying to get away from that!"
"We are the leading House for all Warlocks and Sorceresses." Trenton says. "I'm sure we could get away with it."
Callie turns away. Trenton unfolds his arms.
"However, I can't do anything about it this Harvest Moon." Trenton turns to Camilla. "The Order has called an emergency meeting in Avalon. The dunpeals have been making noises again. We must go."
"I see." Camilla nods. "But what about Callie?"
"I have arranged for her to visit Countess Lee. She agreed to accept Callie for a while. I'm sure the meeting between the Warlocks will be a long conference."
"But, she'll be close to Lord Feral..."
"I must risk that, even though I hate that his lands borders Lee's." Trenton sighs. "But, Lee is an ally, and Callie will be in good paws."
"So, I don't have to do the Harvest Moon?" Callie speaks up.
"No. But I will use this time to decide your future." Trenton turns away. "So, pack well."
Callie glares at his back, but does a small curtsey.
"Yes, father."
************************************************************
"The Warlocks have called an emergency meeting in Avalon. Apparently, they do not like that some of their lands want to return to our rule."
The various dunpeals, Lords and Ladies alike, grumble at the news. They had gathered at their leading House's manor: The House of Feral.
"It figures. They are never satisfied."
"I'm sure they're discussing war. Sometimes they act so uncivilized."
"And most of it is their fault. They raise taxes with nary a thought to the katizens...What do you think, Ulysses? What shall we do?"
Lord Ulysses Feral looks at his allies from his position at the head of the table. He causally tucks a rouge strand of his hair back into his ponytail.
"Ladies and gentlekats, I urge that we show extreme restraint. War wouldn't be good for either party. And it brings innocent katizens into our disagreements."
"The katizens already see that we do them no harm." One of the Lords speaks up. "That can be used in our favor."
Feral nods. "I shall consult our neutral party, Countess Lee, about this matter. Until then, refrain from any retaliation."
******************************************************************
Dear Diary,
I am writing this on the way to Countess Lee's manor. The Harvest Moon is fast approaching, and I have no desire to humor my parents. My mother did force me to take my crystal though...but what I desire more is a Knight that values me for me...and not my dowry.
Calico Briggs.
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Days later...
"Hello, Calico. Have a nice trip?"
"Yes, thank you."
Countess Lee, the graceful, elderly, dunpeal, watches as Callie exits her father's carriage. Lee's servants help to unload Callie's luggage.
"I'm glad to have you as a guest." Lee says. "But, please remember that I border Feral's lands. He's a friend of mine, and may stop by at any time."
Callie nods, clutching her purse. "I know. I have no quarrel with him."
Lee raises an eyebrow at that. "Oh?"
"That is between him and my father. I could care less about their fighting." Callie crosses her arms. "They could kill each other in a duel and I *still* wouldn't care!"
"How come?"
"Simple. My dad is planning to arrange a marriage for me. I choose my own ways, thank you very much!"
"I see..." Lee turns away. "I'm sure you're tired from your trip. My servants will show you to room. And, you can join me for tea later."
"Thank you."
***************************************************************
Later...
Callie joins Lee for tea in one of Lee's sunrooms. The dunpeal wasn't sensitive to the light like some other dunpeals, so she could enjoy it. Callie smoothes her skirts.
"I'm sorry that I snapped at you earlier, Countess." Callie apologizes. "It's just that my father and I haven't been on the best of terms lately."
"It's perfectly alright, Callie." Lee pours herself a cup of tea. "I know the Harvest Moon season can be quite stressful."
Callie nods, reaching into her purse. She pulls out a piece of crystal. "I don't know why mother made me take the crystal. It's not like I'm going to meet any kats around here..."
Lee smiles. "Oh? I wouldn't be so sure about that, dear. You never know."
"If you can find me a non-boring warlock, let me know."
"Who said it had to be a warlock?"
Callie looks at her. Lee continues to smile, and pushes a book towards Callie. "I know you love reading about the stars. So, I found this book in my library."
"Thank you!" Callie eagerly takes the book.
"There's a clear night tonight. Why don't you try to find some of those constellations tonight?" Lee asks. "That book should be able to help."
"I will! Thank you so much!"
"My pleasure." Lee takes a sip of her tea.
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That night...
The moon had risen, even though a few clouds hid it. That allowed many stars to be seen.
Countess Lee leans against the railing of her personal balcony, when she hears footsteps. She smiles.
"Welcome back, Ulysses... What brings you by?"
"...I want to talk about Trenton Briggs."
Lee nods wisely as Feral leans over the railing to look at her gardens. "I hear that he's meeting in Avalon with his fellow warlocks. Something about disputed lands."
"A tax increase ordered by his lordship himself has upset katizens so much that they want to revert their towns back to my rule." Feral sighs. "I gave up those lands to create a bigger buffer zone between us."
"And, Trenton is convinced you put the katizens up to it."
"That's the gist of it."
"I see... What do your friends think?"
"They want to kill him...and, that's not a bad idea at this point."
Lee couldn't help but laugh. Feral starts to say more, but he sees a blonde haired she-kat exits Lee's manor, holding a book. She then proceeds to one of Lee's gardens. "Visitors, Lee?"
"Hmm? Oh, yes." Lee also looks over the railing. "Lady Calico Briggs... Trenton's daughter."
"Really?" Feral continues to watch. "Who would think that idiot would have such a beautiful daughter."
"So you've noticed."
"But, I am surprised he would leave his daughter so close to me...I am your neighbor."
"And, I am neutral." Lee says. "Calico's rumored large dowry has many warlocks clamoring for her paw...and she has been rejecting every one. Trenton left her here partially because of his business in Avalon, and partially to decide what to do about those marriage proposals."
"I see..."
"So, be a gentlekat and introduce yourself to her."
"Eh?" Feral takes a step back from the railing. "What for?"
"Because you want to." Lee smiles, and walks away.
*************************************************************
"Hmm... Where's an easy constellation to spot..."
Callie sits on a bench in Lee's gardens, a lone lamp illuminating the area. She flips through her book and then glances up at the star studded sky.
"Just how am I going to find a constellation? There are too many stars out!"
"...There's not enough light out, milady."
"Pardon?" Startled, and nearly dropping her book, Callie spins around to face the voice. A tall kat emerges from the shadows. He wore regal clothes consisting of the colors of white with black highlights, and his eyes glowed. He stops by the bench.
"Too little light." The kat says, tucking a rouge stand of black hair back into his long ponytail. "If there's not enough light, you won't be able to see the patterns. Too much, and you won't be able to say any at all."
"So I see. I'll keep that in mind." Callie pretends to read the book as she attempts to get a better look at the kat. He looked familiar...
"But, I'm forgetting my manners. I'm Lord Ulysses Feral." The kat bows deeply to her. "A pleasure to meet you, milady."
"A pleasure to meet you as well." Callie extends her paw to Feral. "Lady Calico Briggs. I'm sure you know that name well."
"I do." Feral kisses the back of Callie's paw, but he didn't release it right away. "Though, I'm surprised..."
"Oh? Why?"
"You offered your paw to me...despite the history I share with your father." Feral finally releases Callie's paw.
"Milord, I wouldn't hold my father's anger against you... Just as I hope you wouldn't hold your anger for him against me." Callie stands up.
"I wouldn't dream of it."
"But, you are awfully brave to introduce yourself to me. My father wouldn't want you around."
"I don't care about what your father wants."
"It's your funeral then, milord."
"...Or his." Feral smiles. "Besides, he's miles away in Avalon...so I've heard. And besides, he won't know about me unless you tell him."
Callie quietly smiles at that, and then notices the time on one of Lee's garden clocks. "I assume a dunpeal such as yourself has sensitivity to the sun."
"I have."
"Such a shame. I would have enjoyed walking with you tomorrow." Callie starts to walk towards the manor.
Feral didn't know what to think. "...You would?"
"However..." Callie pauses and turns to face Feral. "If you show me a constellation tomorrow night, I would enjoy that as well."
"I would be honored."
"Until tomorrow, then," Callie does a small curtsey, "Good night, milord."
Feral smiles again as Callie enters the manor. "Pleasant dreams..."
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Dear Diary,
I meet Lord Ulysses Feral tonight. A very interesting kat. He didn't quake with fear at the mention of my father...and was surprised that I offered my paw to him. But, at least he didn't talk about wars...it was about stars.
I even surprised myself by agreeing to meet him again tomorrow night. I wonder what I'm getting myself into...
Calico Briggs
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The moon was shifting into its full moon phase, and Callie sits on one of Lee's many balconies, waiting for Feral. She was just finishing her tea when Feral pulls up to the balcony in his horse-drawn carriage.
"Sorry I'm late, milady." Feral calls to her.
"What are you doing?" Callie walks up to the balcony's edge.
"You wanted to see a constellation, so I thought I'd take you to this spot I know." Feral says. "You can see a lot of the patterns there."
"I barely know you, milord."
"Thinking I might do you harm, milady?"
Callie hesitates. "No...But..."
Feral grips the reigns controlling his horses. "Well, I can understand it since your father doesn't trust or like me..."
"My father has nothing to do with this!"
"Then come with me. I will not go out of the bounds of Lee's lands." Feral offers his paw upwards toward Callie. "So..."
Callie places her paws on her hips. "You drive a hard bargain, milord."
Feral smiles at that. "I will do you no harm, milady. A Feral does not go back on his word."
Callie thinks for a moment, and then shrugs. "I'll be right down."
*************************************************************
A few minutes later, Callie was sitting besides Feral as he guides his carriage through Lee's gardens. Callie draws her cape around as the dunpeal as Feral urges his horses on in an ancient tongue. Callie was impressed.
"Know the old romance language, milord?" Callie asks after awhile.
"Hmm?" Feral glances at her before returning his attention to guiding his horses. "Oh, yes...This language is one of the few that guides my NightMares."
"And, they are magnificent." Callie admires the jet-black steeds.
"Thank you...So you know language?"
"Yes. I am an educated lady."
"So I see..."
"I've always loved NightMares." Callie continues. "They're so graceful."
"If you like them that much, you can find my herd going through Lee's gardens almost daily." Feral says. "Lee always gets onto me when they trample too much off of the paths."
Callie laughs lightly. "I will look for them, then."
Feral smiles, and then pulls back on his reigns. "We're here."
"Wow..." Callie looks up at the star-studded sky.
"Here there is just enough light. Even though the moon is trying to overpower the sky somewhat."
"I can see some patterns..."
"If you can see three stars in a row, it makes up Orion's belt."
"I can't quite see it."
"Here." Feral gently guides Callie closer to him and points with his right paw. "See it now?"
"Yes...Oh!" Callie pulls herself from Feral's grasp.
"I'm sorry." Feral says. "Did I make you uncomfortable?"
Callie turns away to hide her blush. "No...It's not that..."
"A gentlekat shouldn't have done that." Feral grabs his reigns and begins to head to head back to Lee's manor. "Forgive me."
Callie shakes her head. "A lady shouldn't be so easily flustered."
"But..."
"But?"
Feral looks at her. "It was a very cute blush."
Callie smiles at that. "Are you trying to enchant me, milord?"
"Me?" Feral feigns shock. "Milady, I wouldn't dream of it. Even if I had the ability."
"You...can't enchant me?"
"No. Vampires might have been able to, but I am a dunpeal." Feral urges his horses to trot. " Feral's like things the old fashioned way."
Callie starts to say more, but they were already back at Lee's manor. Callie was slightly disappointed.
"Well, I have returned you safely." Feral says.
"So you have." Callie gathers her cape. "I enjoyed myself."
"As did I."
"I..." Callie turns away slightly. "I look forward to seeing you again."
Feral is shocked. "Really?"
"Really." Callie leans in close and gives Feral a peck on the cheek. "Help me down, please."
Feral, still slightly in shock, offers her his paw, and Callie steps down from the carriage. She turns back to him and does a small curtsey.
"Good night, milord. See you again soon."
Callie walks into to the manor, and Feral is left holding his cheek.
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Dear Diary,
Tonight I spent more time with Lord Feral looking at the stars. And, I didn't want it to end for some reason. He was truly a gentlekat, and had something more to talk about than the warlocks.
I also snuck a glace at my crystal after returning. It's beginning to glow. But, I can't be falling in love with a dunpeal...
...Or am I?
Calico Briggs
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"Did you enjoy star gazing with Lord Feral?"
"Yes. Very much so."
Callie relaxes in the shade of a tree while Lee begins to prune some of her rose hedges. Smoothing her long skirt around her, Callie leans back against the trunk of the tree.
"Lord Feral is a very interesting kat..."
"You think so?" Lee welds a huge pair of clippers. "I'm sure he'll be happy to hear you say that."
Callie closes her book. "Really?"
"Yes. And, I'm sure he finds you interesting as well."
Callie blushes at that. "Well..."
Lee smiles. "Do you like him?"
"I...I have *no* idea..."
"Best to consult your crystal on such matters, dear." Lee moves on to another bush.
"Perhaps..." Callie sighs, and stands up. She then hears the thundering of hooves against the earth. "Is that the NightMares?"
"Yes. Probably heading towards the stream for a drink." Lee begins to clip faster. "Why don't you look?"
"I will!"
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A few minutes later, Callie was making her way towards Lee's stream. The sounds neighing and snorting confirmed that the NightMares were close. Callie makes a final push through some bushes.
"Wow..." Callie couldn't believe the sight.
The herd of NightMares was clustered around the stream. Their jet-black coats shined in the sun, and their amber eyes gleamed. They quickly affirmed themselves as Callie's favorite horse.
After a while, Callie spots a NightMare by itself, helping itself to some leaves from one of Lee's hedges. Callie laughs.
"Lee's going to have a fit when she sees that." Callie smiles. "But, I wonder if I could pet him?"
Callie begins to slowly walk towards the NightMare, being careful not to make any sudden movement. The NightMare notices her, and eyes her curiously.
"Hi, there." Callie extends her paw to the horse. "I won't hurt you..."
The horse backs up a little, but doesn't flee. Callie keeps her voice low and murmurs a few words of a calming spell. Finally, she is next to the horse.
"It'll be alright. I just wanted to pet you." Callie strokes the horse's nose. It neighs softly.
After a few moments of this, a loud neigh is heard, and the herd of NightMares begins to move. The NightMare she was petting trots off to join them.
"I hope to see you again soon." Callie calls after it.
The NightMare gives her one last look, and disappears into the herd.
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"Did you see the NightMares, Callie?"
"Yes! And, I even petted one!"
Lee smiles as Callie floats back into Lee's manor. "You're very lucky dear. Most of the time, they don't let strangers pet them."
"Really?" Callie takes a seat.
"Yes...However..."
"Hmm?"
Lee smiles again. "NightMares are in tune to the feelings of their master. So..."
"...So it is reflecting Lord Feral's feelings...towards me?"
"Possibly."
Callie sits back into her chair. "I see."
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Later that night...
The moon was beginning to rise, and once again Callie is in the gardens. Neighing horses interrupt the still night.
"Good evening, milady."
"Good evening." Callie curtseys as Feral arrives on one of his NightMares. He also holds the reigns of a bridled horse.
"I thought we might go horseback ridding this evening." Feral dismounts. "So, I brought along someone familiar."
"This is the horse I petted today!" Callie strokes the bridled horse's nose.
"This is Duzell." Feral hands Callie the reigns. "He is yours for as long as you stay here."
Callie blushes slightly. "Thank you, milord."
"Lee told me that you petted one of my herd. So I figured it had to be Duzell. He's the youngest..." Feral smiles at Callie. "...And he still carries your scent."
Callie blushes again. "Oh? What do I smell like?"
"Sweet. Like candy."
Callie busies herself with petting Duzell's nose as Feral takes out a simple necklace that consisted of an onyx jewel. "Here."
"What's this?" Callie asks as Feral slips the necklace around her neck.
"The Mark of Feral. It will allow you ride with the herd...even though Duzell is pretty fond of you."
Callie looks at the jewel. "Onyx?"
"Yes. It's my family jewel."
"I see..." Callie looks at him. "So, this is the Mark of the House of Feral?"
Feral nods. "Yes..."
Callie narrows her eyes a bit. "It's funny. I thought a dunpeal such as yourself would be giving me a different *mark*."
Feral raises an eyebrow at that. "Oh?"
"But enough of that." Callie moves toward Duzell. "Let's ride."
"Do you need any help?"
"No thanks, milord. I can handle it." Callie says as she mounts Duzell in one smooth motion.
"...Nice."
"Thank you." Callie smiles at Feral as she gains control Duzell's reigns. "Shall we ride?"
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After a while of leisurely horseback riding, Feral and Callie stop by a small pond. The moon had finally risen, illuminating Lee's gardens and the pond glistens. Callie strokes Duzell's nose while Feral let's his horse drink from the pond.
"I was told, milord, that the NightMares are in tune with the feelings of their master." Callie says, looking at the pond.
"They are." Feral replies. "That's why you were able to approach them."
"You flatter me."
"Oh? How so?"
Callie busies herself with Duzell. "That you might..."
Feral smiles, and then takes notice of the moon. "Ah...the Harvest Moon. I just love full moons."
Feral's comment takes Callie completely off guard. How could a dunpeal know about the Harvest Moon?
"How much...do you know about the Harvest Moon, milord?" Callie asks, turning her head away slightly so Feral couldn't se her blushing.
"Hmm... Isn't that the time when sorceress and warlocks court?" Feral looks back at her. "I mean, dunpeals have our own ways of courting, but I like how you do it."
"Really?"
"Yes. So structured. Nice to see how a relationship develops."
"...I see..."
"So, why do you ask, milady?"
Callie is silent for a moment, but reaches into her purse and produces a piece of crystal. She hands it to him.
"Keep it safe, milord." Callie blushes.
Feral looks at her in shock. "Are you...giving me permission to court you, milady?"
"Callie."
"Huh?"
Callie extends her paw to Feral. "Please...call me Callie."
Feral smiles, and kisses the back of her paw. "Then, you must call me Ulysses as well."
Callie smiles, and then runs her paw along Feral's face. "Kats might find it strange to see a sorceress and a dunpeal courting."
"Callie, I don't care about one thinks...except for maybe your father." Feral looks at her. "And, if you don't care, I won't."
Callie looks up at Feral, her eyes taking on a determined glint.
"I don't care...about my father."
To be continued...