Author's Note: Hello, this is LadyArmster and I am pleased to bring you the first comprehensive story/novel about Joachim Armster, the mysterious vampire nobleman imprisoned inside Walter's castle. Who was Joachim Armster and how did he become a vampire? What was his life like prior to his imprisonment? In time, my story will attempt to answer these questions. If you are eager to read a full-length novel about Joachim or a Castlevania/Lament of Innocence story, I hope you will enjoy Melancholia. I plan to add new chapters on a weekly basis. If demand for new chapters increases, I will do my best to add more even sooner. This story is rated M due to sex, graphic violence, and slash/yaoi between Joachim and Walter.
I wrote Melancholia over five years ago but never published it on this site because it needed a lot of editing and changes. Also, interest in LoI/Castlevania fanfiction seems to have declined over the years. Hopefully, my story will bring greater attention to Joachim Armster, the most fascinating and enigmatic vampire "rebel" in the Castlevania series (besides Alucard of course).
Reviews are always welcome and appreciated. I like to respond to my reviewers as well and take suggestions seriously. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to send me a message. :)
Disclaimer: I do not own Joachim or any of Konami's characters. Anything related to Castlevania: Lament of Innocence is copyrighted by Konami except for my original characters. Please do not use/reproduce this story without my permission.
The name of this story, Melancholia, is derived in part from Joachim's theme "Melancholy Joachim" and a Joachim fansite titled Melancholia. :)
-Lady Armster-
Since there are a few characters in the story that are "new" (created by me...since Joachim's past/family is unknown) you may find yourself confused at first. Below is a "character guide" to get you started. I promise all the characters that appear (or are mentioned) are listed below. The first half of the story mostly includes new characters, besides Joachim and Walter, while the second half includes familiar characters (Leon, Sara, Mathias, etc.) The first half of this story may "seem" boring but its extremely important character background for Joachim so I hope you will read it and review it. I got all of the Konami character birthdays from the Lament of Innocence limited edition calendar and decided each birthday based on what month each character was featured in. Walter was featured in November, Joachim in September, Mathias in March, and Sara in February.
Significant Characters
Lord Joachim Armster
Date of birth: September 3rd 1074
Astrological sign: Virgo
Joachim is the main character in this story. As the son of a legendary crusader, he has much to live up to in order to retain his father's name and the honor of the Armster family. Joachim is albino and suffers from an illness that made him bedridden for most of his life. Thus, he faces constant ridicule and criticisms, and often seeks companionship with his horse or solitude at his manor home.
Lord Zaeviean Armster
Date of birth: December 9th 1054
Date of death: August 29th 1094
Astrological sign: Sagittarius
Father of Joachim Armster, an astute figure who was legendary for his battling abilities in the crusades. It seemed all he left Joachim were memories of an unloving father and a lonely childhood.
Lady Arabella Armster
Date of birth: July 19th 1058
Date of death: September 3rd 1074
Astrological sign: Cancer
Joachim's mother. When her newborn soon took his first breath she took her last. Joachim knows very little about his mother, though she is often remembered as a kind, soft spoken woman, whose beauty was loved by all.
Catherine Corydon
Date of birth: April 4th 1076
Astrological sign: Aries
A spirited young lady who dreams of a carefree life. Many in the village of Creightel admire her for her beauty. Catherine is Joachim's beloved childhood friend.
Lord Walter Bernhard
Date of birth: November 18th ? (year unknown)
Astrological sign: Scorpio
Walter is the cunning and seductive lord of the forest of Eternal Night. Physically, he appears to be in his mid to late 30's. Many in Creightel find Walter fascinating; however he often hides alternative motives to his actions and words, and has a particular attraction to Joachim Armster. He can be ruthless and sadistic, merciless but kind on a whim, and hides a past that linked him with Zaeviean Armster.
Lady Sara Trantoul
Date of birth: February 21st 1076
Astrological sign: Pisces
A beautiful young lady and Leon Belmont's kidnapped betrothed. She is the daughter of a wealthy aristocratic landowner. She is adored and loved by all for her kind nature and beauty. Sara's presence in Eternal Night proves to be more significant than Walter bargained for.
Lord Mathias Cronqvist
Date of birth: March 16th 1062
Astrological sign: Pisces
A genius tactician closely associated with Leon Belmont. A year before the events of this story his wife, Elisabetha, died while he was at the crusades with Leon in the east. Since then Mathias returned home and became bedridden out of grief over her death. Evidently too unstable to go back to the warfront, Mathias has other plans in store for himself in the meantime. Elisabetha's death left him very detached and depressed, but for some reason he seeks out the vampire Walter Bernhard.
Baron Leon Belmont
Date of birth: August 12th 1072
Astrological sign: Leo
Leon Belmont is a young, honest, and courageous man who fears nothing. He has a close friendship with Mathias. Leon's skill in battle and Mathias' genius tactician abilities made their company of knights undefeated. Even after Mathias became bedridden, Leon continued to maintain their company and kept it victorious, while still trying to carry on his close comradeship with Mathias. Monsters suddenly began attacking his estate in Italy, which urged him to seek Mathias' advice and journey to Romania in search of his kidnapped betrothed. In order to do so however, he was forced to renounce his title as Baron, due to the fact the church was against any 'unauthorized' battles.
Minor Characters
Maurizio Dellamaria: Maurizio is the energetic but irresponsible young knight assigned to protect the Armster manor. Maurizio came from Italy and dreams of becoming a great knight. Due to the fact that Creightel is a small, peaceful village, his activities mostly involve drinking and courting women.
Jezebel Caelan: The daughter of a Lord in Dalwood who made several bad investments and became indebted to the Armster family. Jezebel attempts to regain her family's title and wealth by becoming a suitor for Joachim.
Emmaline: A friend of Jezebel whom also tries to win Joachim's attentions.
Kyran: Joachim's Vassal, and who also served Lord Zaeviean Armster for many years. Kyran assists Joachim in managing the crops and the serfs, as well as in sending any able-bodied knights protecting the Armster estate to the crusades.
Anneliese: Joachim's nursemaid until he turned ten years of age. She was kind and gentle, and during his early life Joachim considered her to be the mother he never had.
Father Genesio: A local priest residing in Creightel whose religious views often conflict with Joachim's.
Luciano Corydon: Catherine's father. A gypsy horse trader who settled in Creightel after being hired by Lord Zaeviean to help protect the village. He is very protective and dislikes his daughter's friendship with Joachim.
Other Notes
None of the towns in my story (Creightel, Dalwood, Brendelham) actually existed. I made the names up to be more creative, just like some of the characters featured never existed in the game. Nothing was stated about where Joachim came from. Judging by his last name, I would say his family is most likely from either Germany or England, and both options I leave the reader to decide.
~* Melancholia *~
Chapter I
The September moon rose above the deserted streets, bathing every object beneath it within a pale ivory light. Joachim marveled at the glorious mystery of the night. A slight smile creased his dry lips, and without any hesitation he made his way to the building at the end of the street. Though young, his steps were slow and methodical, and his expression became somewhat strained. He had always found it difficult to cope with the cold weather – it made his joints ache and walking more difficult than usual.
The long indigo colored tailcoat of his robes fluttered behind him as he went. If one saw him, they would immediately guess that he was affluent. Covering his chest was an ornately designed piece of armor that matched his boots. The silver lining his armored chest and boots shimmered under the moonlight. The houses surrounding the street in which he walked were small and modest, complete with thatched rooftops and smoke drifting into the black night sky through their open chimneys.
The silence was quickly disturbed by a voice calling to him. The young man's thin frame stiffened as he paused and turned in response. The tails of his robe brushed against his legs, revealing his pearly white britches and knee length boots. His unusually fair complexion and shoulder-length ivory hair were the only features that revealed his presence. "Joachim! Have you ever heard of waiting, you said you would not leave until I was ready!" Hurrying toward him down the street was the young woman, wearing an amethyst colored dress. His pale silver eyes became alit when they fell upon her. "I had waited for you, and if you did not take so long I would have stayed. Thanks to you, I am now late."
"I apologize! My father wished to speak with me before I left. You know how he feels about the aristocracy…"
Although he wished to continue on his way, he waited until she was by his side. A soft huff escaped through his parted lips, though his initial displease was quickly replaced by a soft smile. "I waited for you for twenty minutes. If you can't be ready during that time, I have no reason to remain in wait when I have my own obligations to attend to."
She scowled at him in disapproval; her jaded eyes piercing into his as the thick ringlets of her raven hair fell around her slightly flushed cheeks. "Oh very well, I suppose I cannot blame you for leaving. After all, tonight is the celebration of your twentieth birthday. To think, after all these years…"
"I would rather not." Joachim closed his eyes momentarily, ignoring her somewhat as he neared the building. "I understand what this time means. It means I have inherited my father's estate and title as lord…" His eyes opened again and drifted upward to the pale moon. The night was calm and quiet. It was the first time he had left the manor in almost two weeks. The fresh air refreshed him greatly, allowing him to feel a moment of freedom after illness had confined him to his bed. Indeed, he was looking forward to the event that evening despite the air of indifference he seemed to exhibit in her presence. In the moonlight, the young man appeared wan and tired, though within his gaze was a surprising liveliness. It was hard to believe he was twenty years old. God - or perhaps fortune - had smiled upon him. It was true that many did not live long enough to reach their early teens. Nevertheless, he was grateful for the fact that he would not have to celebrate such a milestone alone. Catherine's presence inspired him to recover and grow strong once again, like a wilted flower given water and rejuvinated by her tender care.
Catherine was different from most women he knew and for that he was thankful. She was a petite, cheerful thing with bright green eyes and hair as black as a raven's wing, always set in neat ringlets. The young woman's hair was thick and glossy, giving her a kind of graceful beauty that became more apparent with age. For a long as he could remember they had been close companions. It was, however, a rather unusual friendship. Men of his 'reputation' clung to the unspoken rule about class and priviledge. To him, such a rule made no difference. He had spent most of his life in his bed rather than out of it, thus, his ways did not necessarily coincide with his fellow aristocrats. What did they know of suffering? He would often ask himself whenever doubt about his choice surfaced. Surely, if they knew her as well as he, they might be less judgemental. Perhaps it was only fanciful thinking but it did not matter to him. That is not to say that such a friendship had been difficult at times. Indeed, when his father was alive, there were times when he doubted it's plausibility...
"Oh come now, you are a fortunate young man in some ways." Catherine attempted to reassure him. She smiled, her eyes glittering in the darkness. To the young man, such eyes were more enchanting than the brightest stars in the sky. Not even Orion, Cassiopia, nor even the North Star itself could rival the beauty of her eyes. However, he gave her not the slightest indication that he was thinking such a notion, for his face remained serious and composed. Despite such jovial thoughts, he had every reason to restrain his enthusiasm. His twentieth birthday was a somewhat hollow celebration in many ways. He was still trying to comprehend the fact that he was the only Armster left. The huge manor in which he lived became increasingly desolate and empty, especially when thoughts about his father crossed his mind, creating a mix of hate and sadness within his tired soul. Time was slipping away from him - he had not the chance to truly know his father. Whenever he was ill his father rarely visited him. Of course, he understood that the man came and went from the East where he proudly preserved the honor of the Armster name by fighting heretics and heathens. Everything in God's name, for the sake of the Pope in Rome, for the sake of all good Christians - such "noble" ideas were still unconvincing to him. Although he was grateful that God had allowed him to live for twenty years, a siege of resentment sometimes consumed him whenever feelings of despair reminded him that God had taken his father away. Not just in death but life as well. Lord Armster had been away from home more often than not. As his son lay in bed, struggling to live, Lord Armster was fighting in a desolate, far off region of the world that not even he, in all his vain attempts, could imagine without shuddering.
Not everyone has the wealth you possess, or the status of your family name. Enjoy the small celebration your friends have prepared for you." He arrived before the heavy doors of the building, and with a hand he grasped the doorknob and turned to her once again.
"Yes…perhaps I will. After all, I need a little cheering up." His face brightened from her smile, which was so genuine that he could not help but smile in return. It sometimes surprised him that he still knew how to smile.
Joachim had not invited any guests to Armster Manor since his father's death. Such a personal tragedy had happened too soon before his birthday, so he could not find within himself the heart to celebrate it there. Fortunately, the little village had a rather large, communal building, where local dances and festivities were often held. The people of Creightel were extremely sociable and closely-knit. Indeed, superstitions and local legends had made the people come together and work co-operatively. September was an especially busy month due to the approaching harvest and the tension over preparing for Winter, one of the harshest and most unforgiving times of the year. Joachim remembered that in one winter alone, nearly a quarter of the entire village died from illness. It was not uncommon to hear of such things but high death tolls could be devastating to a Lord, who relied upon local taxes and successful crops. Fortunately, the mild September weather promised the possibility of a milder winter that year and a bountiful harvest. Joachim was not sure if he could survive another cold winter like last year's. Winter, for him, meant a constant struggle between life and death. In fact, in the winter of his tenth year, he had not set a single foot outside the manor. His father had forbidden him from leaving his room, thus all he could do was sit inside and play with Catherine when she visited him. However, despite being locked inside for most of his life, he managed to acquire some contacts outside of Creightel who would be attending the party that evening. Joachim approached the large building ahead, which was made out of stone and had a thatched rooftop. Two great wooden doors greeted him when he walked up a small flight of stone stairs with Catherine by his side. The young woman held onto his arm as he ascended them, helping him keep his balance when a sudden, though unsurprising, jolt of dizziness made him pause to catch his breath. Once he was sure he had regained his steadiness, the young man grasped the handle of the doors and pulled them open.
He stepped through the doorway and into a large room with an open area covered by a crimson red carpet. At the back of the space in the wall was a large fireplace that cast a dull orange light across the room. Lining the walls were candlestick holders, and all about the room were people mingling with one another. The moment he stepped inside, the groups of people turned to him and he was immediately bombarded the second his pale form appeared.
"Joachim!" He stopped abruptly and gazed at the people with a fixated gaze, though it was not until a particular young man stepped out from the crowd of people that he fully understood the light atmosphere filling the room. "At last you've come! We weren't sure if you were going to show up to such a small gathering, come in and have some wine!" The man who spoke was his age, and his face was smooth and his auburn eyes twinkled with reverence. Joachim glanced at their smiling faces as he hobbled toward a long wooden table in the middle of the room.
"Whatever is this for Maurizio? It is merely my birthday, I did not expect this from you."
Maurizio poured him a glass of wine, giving the young lord a cheeky smile. "It's the least I can do, especially for one who is going to be a lord!" Joachim continued to look at him with a fixated gaze, and politely took the glass and pressed it to his lips. The sweet yet tart taste of the red wine slid down his throat, and after he carefully placed it on the table the other people in the room gathered to their seats.
"I see, very well then. How many have you invited to this gathering?" His eyes trailed to his friend, though Maurizio quickly consumed his attention with the wine. Without so much as a thought the young man poured himself a glass and sat back in his chair.
"Lots of other lords decided to come, and Vassal Kyran told me to tell you he will be late for our gathering this evening."
"Why I am I not surprised to hear that? It must be because of the harvest this year; he has been saying his crops are the finest in the region. I look forward to seeing such grains when my servants make them into bread."
Joachim leaned back in his chair, still holding the wine as he thoughtfully drummed his fingers on the table. Maurizio was swift to answer his statement, as the fellow young man drained his glass and reached for the wine to pour another. "So it seems." He began earnestly, glancing about at the other people mingling in the room.
"Your awful quiet this evening, what being your birthday and all. I will have to ensure by the end of tonight you are so intoxicated all your troubles melt away! That is how many deal with such trifles, for what good can come out of life without a spot of wine to make hideous women appear beautiful, and lowly knights like me become true kings!"
The man gave him a wide grin and chuckled, however Joachim felt no such expression wash over his face, and he instead set the wine down and brushed away a strand of his hair. "You dream too much my friend." He muttered back, and set his elbow on the table to rest his chin in his hand. "Wine merely dilutes reality. If all one does is drink and be merry, then he is fooling himself and driving his issues into deeper turmoil."
"I was joking! Have you no sense of humor tonight as well? I hope by the time Kyran arrives you will have changed your mood." Joachim rolled his eyes and looked away from Maurizio's expectant gaze, as his eyes began to wander over people conversing casually and those of higher status holding their wine in fine crystal glasses. It was not difficult to tell who was of higher class because those who were wealthier wore finer garments and were better kept then those of the peasant class. Joachim scarcely could see a reason for such a system even though he kept it to himself, since people were still people regardless of a title.
"I shall only stay for a little while. I'm weary tonight, and all I really seek is time in solitude." His eyes drooped slightly when he spoke, and the evident mechanical tone of his voice only caused his friend to incite further.
"You cannot hide behind that mask of displeasure!" Maurizio swiftly added in. "Especially because many have come from other towns and traveled to attend. Think of it this way as well, you need the company after what occurred in these recent months…"
"I will decide that." His eyes narrowed and momentarily glanced at his friend's direction, where he caught Maurizio sigh before their eyes locked and the young man shrugged when he resumed his observations. "Though you are correct, it would be terribly rude of me not to acknowledge my guests." He batted his eyelids slowly and straightened in his chair.
"Of course I am correct!" Maurizio gloated with the same grin resuming to flash across his lips. "You wouldn't want your lordship to already begin in a bad manner. After all, many who are not from out village are skeptical of you yet, and you are expected to make proud your father's name." Joachim felt his entire body freeze from such words, and all at once he shoved back his chair and darted to his feet.
"I will hear no more of this. Let me be, and I will try to make this evening a little more enjoyable." With a last glance he turned awkwardly toward the groups of milling guests, who instantly gave him the impression all eyes were watching his every move. With slow yet confident strides, he moved to walk but was bombarded once again when Maurizio wrapped an arm around his back and pushed him playfully.
"Come now everyone! Without further ado, we must wish our grand new lord a happy birthday!"
"Maurizio…" Joachim pursed his lips and glanced at him, but the young man already raised his glass and the others soon joined.
"Here stands a promising new lord that shall make our village prosper! I propose we toast to Lord Joachim, the only surviving generation of the Armster clan! Here, here!" Almost instantly men and women alike raised their glasses and smiled at him, and Joachim forced a smile in return when the groups of people cheered and threw back their heads to down a sip of their drinks. Upon finishing, Maurizio darted away into the crowd, as Joachim remained rigid in place until the dark haired man returned guiding a tall man and woman behind him.
"Joachim – or should I address you as milord – have you met the lord Caelan of Dalwood? He has come so far to make acquaintances with you!" Joachim
stiffened when his eyes locked with the fellow lord, who politely extended his hand in greeting. "Ah, so you are the son of Lord Zaeviean. I have not laid eyes upon you till now, it is my pleasure."
Joachim stared down at the man's hand, but refused to hesitate and shook it, feeling the firm grasp the other lord had. He was not the least surprised to see the man was donned in the finest robes and accompanied by a beautiful woman with thick curly red hair and glittering eyes. Despite her beauty, she was plainly dressed.
"You, servant! Fetch me a drink now and do not take so long! I have run out of patience for you, and it shall not hesitate to flog you if you displease me again!" The lord's voice hardened and he nearly shoved the woman away from his side, who only wordlessly nodded and hurried off to do as he bid.
"The pleasure is all mine." Joachim answered coolly, as his eyes diverted to the pained expression the woman wore while she poured another glass at the table nearest to them. His gaze was forced back to the fellow lord when the man continued.
"Ah, you are not exactly what I expected. You father rarely mentioned you, though he once told me you are very skilled in sword mastery. Tis' a pity that talent must go to waste is it not?" A frown crept its way over Joachim's lip but he covered it and swiped the glass from Maurizio's grasp.
"I hardly think so." He commented, his voice quivering slightly while his hand wrapped around the crystal glass and tightened. "My father occasionally failed to seek matters beyond the surface. I find that more prevalent these past years, for many lords have become alike in that aspect."
"That drink was mine! If you wish to have some, simply ask." Maurizio gave him a sharp but glinting glance, and quickly swept away to retrieve another glass. Joachim watched the other lord's eyes follow his friend until he disappeared again into the clusters of people, before the lord leaned forward and inquired.
"Who is that rude young fellow? Why must a lord tolerate such insolence? Is he a servant of yours? If he were under my command, I would ensure that he understood his place."
The lord continued to glare where Maurizio disappeared, but he merely waved it away and replied. "That whom you call a 'servant' is my friend." Joachim's voice fell into a dull whisper, as his lips articulated every word to complete the statement. "Maurizio is a respected knight and a great warrior for our king, so you are to address him as Sir for that is a title he risked his life to earn."
"I see, well for being one of our king's great knights he lacks manners. Why is he not accompanying his fellow knights in the east? Although we shall surly win, his presence here is of little value." The lord raised his head high and stared over the people as the young man began to wind his way back toward them carrying two fresh glasses of wine in his hands.
"Maurizio has earned his place at home." Joachim remarked and grasped the glass even tighter upon noticing the other lord's speculation. "He had gone East and fought to proclaim the grace of God, however the injuries he sustained forced him to return home. If you have a problem with that, feel free to voice it when he is in our presence." The other lord's lips firmed and Joachim could not help but relish in the strained response his words received.
"Tis' little discrepancy to me. A knight is still a knight, and lower than a lord like you and I. Just as are these peasants you invited to this dining, for they feast like dogs and have manners much the same as dogs-"
"I will hear no more of this." He glared at the lord when the man moved his lips in an attempt to persist. "It is my celebration, and I will invite whomever I choose. If you are daring to insult my guests, you have no place here." Joachim raised his head in an attempt to stare at him at eye-level, but his thoughts quickly diverted when Maurizio tapped him on the shoulder.
"Here, you best drink this, the glass is a lot more full than the one you carry." The smile presented to him made him exchange glasses, though he swiftly swiped the other one Maurizio carried as well. "Pardon me-" his friend began again, however he smiled in return and made a bow to the fellow lord. "I must take my leave of you now Lord Caelan. Do enjoy this evening if it suits you, unless you wish to inform Sir Maurizio of what you so graciously told me?" he locked eyes with the lord and he ushered to his friend, all the while allowing a strange silence to enter the conversation. For a moment the lord remained speechless, but with a swish of his robe he took a few steps away when the red haired woman returned and handed him a glass.
"I congratulate you, Lord Armster. Your father did not believe you would survive past your tenth birthday, let alone twentieth. A true lord learns the place of his subjects. Perhaps in time you will come to understand what I mean."
"Perhaps in time you will also come to understand the meaning of respect? I certainly hope so." Joachim's lips formed a scowl.
"Watch your tone, Lord Armster." The other warned, nearly crushing the wine glass in his trembling fist. "I have a great many friends in the Vatican who would love to persecute you for your rather…unusual appearance. Some would say you are ill because you are possessed. Your white hair and skin is strangely beyond explanation."
Joachim felt his face growing hot while he glared at the other lord with mutual repugnance. He ran a hand through the soft locks of his ashen hair, taking a moment to glance at his pale skin that frightened most his father's servants. It was not unusual for his servants to avoid him because they feared falling victim to the 'white devil' – a reference they spoke only during his absence. Despite his unmoved response to the other lord's warning, accusations of witchcraft were an ever-growing occurrence. If he was too careless he could find himself among the accused despite his father's reputable name. Between gritted enamels, a hiss erupted through the young man's throat.
"Go ahead and have the Vatican persecute me. Lest we forget, though, that you owe a great deal of capital to my father? I may be an invalid, however, being ill has endowed me with time to manage my father's finances. It seems you have acquired a great deal of debt to my family, Lord Caelan…perhaps I should have my knights pay a visit to collect it from you?"
The other lord's eyes became as wide as saucers. "D-d-do forgive me," he stuttered, nearly choking on his wine upon witnessing a knowing smirk flash across the young man's lips. Despite his regal attire, the man could barely contain himself, his hands trembling to the point that he dropped his glass on the floor and shattered it. "T-t-that would not be necessary, Lord Armster…"
Without waiting for a reply, he bowed his head, accidently allowing the wig covering it to fall off. "There is no need for our conversation to become unpleasant!" He added, before snatching the wig off the floor. "Perhaps I have been unfairly judgmental. You have my sincere apologies. If there is anything I can do to be of service to you, do not hesitate. I have a daughter whom I am certain you know of, Jezebel? I could arrange for a marriage between the two of you…if that would perhaps, reduce my debt. I assure you, she comes from good stock…her mother was the duchess of Bath-"
"I am not interested in such an agreement," Joachim waved the man away, his voice accusing. "Have you no respect for your own daughter? You would dare use her as collateral in order to eliminate your financial debt? Such dishonor is unacceptable. I expect you to make payments to me every month until your debt is cleared. Is that understood?"
The other lord made no indication of a reply except to nod and slink away into the crowd. Joachim folded his arms across his chest, his cold blue eyes following the man until he was out of sight. He had narrowly escaped the possibility of being put on trial for sorcery. After ending their argument, he was in no mood to celebrate. Yet, when he turned to escape the prying eyes of curious onlookers, he gasped when he found himself looking into Catherine's bright green eyes.
"Hello, Joachim," She said cheerfully. "It seems we have not had a chance to talk all evening. Would you care to join me for a glass of wine by the fire? I miss your company, for I do not know any of the guests you invited."
Joachim nodded anxiously, his face brightening the second he laid eyes upon her. "Catherine, it would be my pleasure. I have been eager to talk to you as of late."
"I see you have already gotten yourself into an argument." She said, looking up at him with unease. "Please, do not exert yourself. If my company pleases you, I am glad."
Locks of Catherine's thick ebony ringlets fell around her shoulders and down her back as she bowed her head. Her tender and subdued manner made a warm smile spread across his lips. He was unsurprised by her response, for it was her selflessness that he admired most about her. She was, indeed, different than the other women he knew. All they wished to speak to him about was his title, land, family history, and future goals. To him, they seemed empty of life and happiness, like a cracked vase unable to hold water. More often than not, he tired of them quickly. Perhaps, somewhere within himself, he knew that they found him appealing only because it was well-known that his life would be short. He had recently inherited his father's estate and family fortune. To be able to acquire such noble lines and financial security would be perfect for such women. Not only that, but they would not be burdened by him for long. His death would mark the beginning of their freedom to remarry and spend everything his family had worked to attain. Catherine was the only woman he could trust. She knew him better than anyone and had befriended him since childhood. Though she had not a penny to her name, she had earned more than his entire fortune could repay through her kindness toward him. He could hardly imagine any of the other women he saw that night emptying his bed pan, lifting him up to feed him, reading to him in the middle of the night, or telling him gypsy legends when he was so feverish he could barely say a word to express his gratitude. And yet, they labeled her a "vagabond", "heathen", and "tramp", simply because she was not of the same noble birthright. Gypsies were common throughout Transylvania and Romania. During the daylight hours, and only while Catherine was absent, he would sometimes read about her ancestors and wonder how different his life would be if he had been born among them. He could have travelled anywhere, learned a trade, bred horses, or even gone on an adventure. The life of a gypsy seemed so much realer than his. Days spent languishing inside a large, empty manor, with only indifferent servants, fickle associates, and a tyrannical father as company. The life of an aristocrat was, for him, lonely. It seemed his family's bloodlines had become as stagnant as a millpond. When he looked at her, he imagined only new possibilities and the joy of living without limitations set by an arrogant, self-righteous "nobility."
"You need not worry, milady." He reassured. "I shall be along in a moment. Have a glass of wine in the meantime." His trembling hand nearly spilled the wine when he handed his glass to her. When he caught her looking at him in worry, he added quickly. "It's nothing, Catherine."
"Very well." She replied in spite of her doubtful gaze. "I will wait for you by the fireplace." As she bowed again, he caught her eyes lift and look up at him. The gesture made him catch his breath – yet, the words he wished to speak would not leave his lips. Before he could consider asking her to remain by his side, she had already walked toward the other side of the room, her long amethyst dress sweeping with her steps as she went.
"Hasn't she grown into a lovely creature? To think when we were children we never used to notice the beauty of women." Maurizio stared after her and purposely raised his head to get a longer glance, until Joachim pulled him back and turned his back upon her, his face flushing a shade of crimson.
Despite his attempt to be discreet, Maurizio was persistent. "You should ask her to dance this evening! The musicians have arrived and are waiting to begin."
"I don't feel like dancing right now." Joachim muttered while wringing his hands. "Besides, a lord should be attending to his guests instead of his guests attending to him."
"Oh come now!" Maurizio added convincingly. "She awaits you, so you should go to her! After all, she is one of your guests and if you have responsibility for them like you say then you should pay respect to a lady's request. If you refuse again then I will simply drag you over there and tell her myself-"
"You will do no such thing! Have you forgotten that dancing exhausts me? The doctor that visited yesterday insisted I rest. I should not even be here to begin with. Nevertheless, I understand everyone's surprise at seeing me turn twenty. Indeed, it is hard to fathom why I am still alive." A frown creased the corner of his lips, his pale blue eyes hardening at the morbid thought.
Maurizio gave him a sharp look. "Must you always be so depressing? I doubt she will be a problem to you, for if you can handle women as well as your sword this should be rather easy."
Joachim shoved him playfully before returning his attention to his guests. The other lords and ladies nodded at him politely or offered him words of congratulations. It seemed no one had expected him to attend his own party. The fact that he had been bedridden during the previous two weeks was reason enough for them to doubt how long his health would last. "You rely too much on assumptions, Maurizio. Catherine and I are merely acquaintances. She is, after all, a commoner. My father did not approve of her when we played together as children."Joachim's gaze drifted through the crowd, searching for Catherine among his guests.
"What's the matter? Is Lord Joachim scared? Are you afraid that even with your lordly title you cannot have her?" Another chuckle parted from his lips, however the young lord returned it with a seething glare.
"I will go and see her but only out of courtesy. I think you have become confused about the difference between those two subjects."
"I think not my friend," The knight continued. "After all, I think you are confused about what you will say to her. Young love becomes deep affection in time's river, and I think you have just taken the plunge-"
"Stop using such stupid metaphors! I have had enough of this nonsense, you seem to have had one too many glasses of wine."
Joachim listened for Catherine's voice among the many clusters of conversation. Within moments he was bombarded and surrounded by a group of men and women, all of which seemed to speak at once. "Joachim!" A young maiden called to him, her eyes falling upon him intensely. He turned, only to look upon a woman with dark eyes and neatly braided caramel colored hair. "It's about time you came to converse with us! I brought some of my pies as appetizers, but Christiana insisted on bringing a roast as well!" He forced a smile, recognizing her as Lord Caelan's daughter. "Thank you, Lady Jezebel. I shall be back momentarily, I have to speak with someone-"
"Must you always leave so quickly? Stay with us and at least tell us what plans you have concerning the obligations of your entitlement!"
"Everyone please, I will be back soon enough. I thank you all for attending this event. I cannot say what I plan to do as lord just yet, so I will have to see what happens until then." He overlooked their smiling faces to the fireplace beyond, and what still seemed to be out of his reach and farther than in actuality. With steps growing in pace he walked through the crowd. He hurried as fast as he could without trying to be rude.
After a few moments, he at last saw Catherine standing in front of the blazing fireplace. Cupped in one of her porcelain-like hands was a glass of red wine. The moment he appeared she smiled.
"I apologize for taking so long." Joachim began, his lips nearly trembling as he spoke. "What is it you wanted speak with me about?" he walked toward her with slow careful steps while feeling his cheeks growing hot.
"Joachim, are you well? You appear to be quite flushed." She blinked several times when he stood next to her in front of the fire. Before he could object she reached out and placed a hand upon his face.
"I-I am quite well tonight." He began, hoping she had not noticed that his face was warm. "You worry too much, Catherine. I am not as ill as I was as a child."
"Don't try to fool me with that brave front of yours." She answered, her emerald eyes blinking at him with suspicion. "I know you don't wish to tell me when you are feeling ill."
"I am fine, I assure you. My illness has improved these past few days. A doctor even visited yesterday and said that his latest medicine is even more effective than the last. I am eager to try and it. At least medicine is a better alternative to blood letting…"
Joachim noticed that she had fallen silent and gave him only a sympathetic look in reply. Indeed, she knew as well as he that twenty years had passed and his illness had never been cured. If he did not try to put up a brave front, he feared she would continue to worry and dote on him. In attempt to look unbothered by her uncertainty, he looked at the fire's golden embers. No matter how hard he concentrated on the fire, his eyes were always drawn to her. After a moment of silence, Catherine sighed while taking his arm. "When you were gravely ill last week, I had a gypsy healer go to your chamber and bless you while you slept. The healer even added some of her remedies to the soup you had for dinner that evening. I think you should rest more – I do not wish to see you push yourself like this. It will only make you ill again."
He felt her hands tighten around his arm, which prompted him to reply dismissively. "I am tired of resting. It did little for me when I was a child, and it still does now. If there is a chance that the doctor's medicine will work, I am willing to try it again no matter what the cost."
"Why? All that 'medicine' does is make you hopeful – and when it fails to work, your condition worsens. Your father tried everything to cure you. Don't you remember five years ago when your condition nearly took your life? Your father had doctors come from across Europe to see you. None of those so-called experts could find a cure. The only thing they did was blood letting-"
"Ah, so you remembered…" He gave her a sullen look, his lips curling. "Too much black bile - they said it makes me melancholic. I still have the scars on my arms…"
She rested her head on his shoulder, soothing the tension flowing through him. "I did not mean to offend you. Let's change the subject. This is your evening to enjoy. I cannot help but wonder what kind of feast we shall have!" Joachim forced a smile, his eyes diverting between the fire and Catherine but he could not ignore her feelings. With a bitter sigh, he closed his eyes and whispered. "Catherine…you are right. I am foolish to think that medicine will have any effect. I feel as if I tried everything in existence, only to no avail."
Indeed, she had every right to worry about him for she had spent a great deal of time at his manor nursing him back to health. He remembered long hours spent in bed, the light of the sun shielded by thick drapes to keep the room dark. During most of his ill bouts, Catherine never left his bedside for a moment. When he was too ill to even raise his head to eat, she spoon-fed him herself. Without her, he was certain he would have had no motivation to live. Unlike many women from her class, Catherine was a rarity – he had secretly taught her to read when they were children and so she often spent the day sitting at his bedside reading to him.
"Oh, Joachim…I have no right to judge, for I do not know what it is like. If you are feeling well this evening, why stop yourself from experiencing a bit of pleasure? The fact you are here is enough for me."
At last her words made the smile he longed for appear on his lips. He turned his head and looked at her face, watching the way she seemed to reassure him. "Nothing will keep me from you." Without expecting it, his hand brushed against hers. The woman's flesh was so soft and warm that he paused a moment, avoiding her gaze, whilst resting his hand there. Since they kept their hands at their side, the other guests paid them no attention. It had been a long time since he felt truly as happy as he did now. Yet, when he dared to look at her again, her eyes looked dim and sad. Upon meeting his gaze, her hand slipped discreetly away from his. Joachim struggled over what to do until he forced his voice to lighten, pretending as though he failed to notice. "As long as you do not eat all the cake then I think things will go well."
"Why, you scoundrel! I am not a glutton!"
Joachim chuckled softly, but it faded under the sound of instruments that filled the room. He watched her turn and stare as people grouped and began to dance to the music. "I wonder where Kyran is? I thought he was going to attend?" She asked while her eyes scanned the large room. "Look at all of them dancing so gracefully! I haven't danced in ages, not since the party in Dalwood. Tis' such a shame that our village is so small events like these are rare."
The sight of her watching the dancers provoked the question inside him, but when he failed to respond she whirled in place. "Joachim! Are you daydreaming? How can you do that at your own party when so much is going on?" A wide grin flashed across her face then, her throat letting out a shy laugh when his eyes widened with surprise. Words failed him whenever she stared at him like that "I was not daydreaming! I was merely wondering what became of Kyran since you brought it up. Perhaps the harvest will keep him away tonight – he is preparing for a large crop this season, after all."
"Perhaps, or perhaps he decided not to attend. Such behavior is typical of him – I know he does not approve of allowing commoners to attend your events."
Strands of his pearly white hair cascaded against his cheeks as he lowered his head thoughtfully. "Catherine…" he began, forcing sound to escape his throat. The sight of his guests dancing together made his heart flutter inside his chest. He could not remember the last time he danced even if he tried. Despite attending his father's parties, he was often too ill to participate and merely observed from a distance. The longing to get nearer to her overcame his fears. "It would be a pleasure if you and I could-" However, before he could finish his request, a familiar voice interrupted their conversation.
"Lord Armster, how pleasant it is to see you again." Joachim gasped in surprise upon seeing Jezebel approaching him, her hands lifting the skirt of her long, golden dress. "You look a lot healthier tonight," She added, allowing a coy little grin to spread across her painted ruby lips. He felt her eyes searching him intently, perhaps even evaluating him as he stood motionless and unsure of what to say. "Forgive me for being a bit blunt, but why are you standing here while your guests have all the fun?" She remarked with a laugh.
Joachim shook his head, humoring her with a smile when he replied. "I was merely enjoying a glass of wine with Catherine, though now that you are here, I can tell you are the life of the party. I am flattered that you came, milady."
"Is that so?" She asked, though it was more of a statement than a question. The woman's probing eyes made him swallow uneasily. "How kind of you to notice me, Lord Armster. I hope you like what you see."
"I…" While he tried to come up with something clever, Catherine bowed and turned away. "It t'was a pleasure speaking with you, Lord Armster." She said shortly and brushed aside a lock of her thick black hair. Before Joachim could respond, she made her way back into the crowd of guests. Joachim felt his throat constrict, his thoughts whirling upon realizing that she was gone yet again.
Satisfied by the fact their conversation was now private; the woman chuckled and extended a gloved hand to him. "Well, tis' a shame to see you without a partner."
Joachim forced himself to give the lady a formal bow while torturing the words out of his mouth. "I see that you are without one as well, milady. Would you care to dance with me?"
"Indeed I would!" She grinned, allowing him to take her hand in his. Joachim's fingers wound stiffly around hers as he drew her close to him. None of his movements felt natural – it was like he was a stone figure brought to life. As they moved together across the floor in a waltz, he heard her whisper in his ear. "So, milord, it seems you are feeling better. How do you plan to spend your time now that you are well again?"
"I do not know," Joachim replied, his eyes glancing over her in search of Catherine. Whenever the woman looked up at him, he made sure that their eyes met so she would not realize his attention was elsewhere.
"Really? Do you not get lonely living in such a large manor by yourself? Of course, you have attendants and servants, but they are different from family."
"Yes, that is true." Joachim mused.
"I am sorry to hear about your father's recent passing," She added quickly. "So tragic! You are the last heir to the Armster name…and quite a attractive young man – do forgive me for my outspokenness. Have you ever considered taking a wife? I am sure a wife could be a useful companion to you, don't you agree?"
"Perhaps," Joachim murmured, dissatisfied with the direction she was taking their conversation. "The thought has occurred to me. However, I am too ill to be a good husband. I'm afraid that, when I am ill, she would spend more time by herself than with me."
"Is that not typical of most lords and ladies?" She remarked, a smile still plastered upon her face as one of her hands reached up and touched his ashen cheek. "Many lords have gone to the East, leaving their wives to manage the estate in their absence. If you married a strong woman, I am sure she could cope with the inconvenience of your illness. Why, I rather enjoy being left to my own devices, as long as I am well-provided for…"
He sighed softly and looked down at her face, which did not leave him for a moment as they danced. Joachim took a few obscure glances around him whenever other couples neared, searching valiantly for Catherine's amethyst dress among the other brightly colored garments. So many people had arrived that he knew it would be impossible for him to spot her that easily. As he began to consider whether or not to search for her again, Maurizio, who was dancing with Emmaline, suddenly appeared next to him.
"I thought you were with Catherine?" The knight asked, raising an eyebrow with a look of confusion spreading across his face.
Joachim flushed and turned away, though his friend's expectant gaze forced him to answer coolly. "I was – but I asked Jezebel if she would honor me with a dance." He could not hide the fact that the flat tone in his voice contradicted his smiling expression.
"The evening's still young so you'd better get to her before I do."
"What?" Joachim snapped, his eyes narrowing until Maurizio relented.
"Do not get so defensive, I was merely joking!" The young man winked at him and danced in the other direction, all the while Joachim kept his eyes narrowed and vigilant. "So Joachim, I hear once one becomes a lord it is only suitable for them to find a wife. Have you set your eyes on anyone in particular?" he turned his head to look at her again, and bit his lower lip without a reply to her question. However, after only a second of feeling her gaze straying upon him, he quickly said. "I do not wish to discuss my personal affairs."
The music slowed to a stop when the song came to an end, and before he knew it his feet became heavy as lead and his hand slipped away from her. "That was a pleasant dance milord." She emphasized with a soft grin, and within seconds he looked at her again and gasped when she stood upon her toes and swiftly kissed him on the cheek. He rubbed the area with his hand as if it was diseased, and his brow furrowed slightly when she laughed and curtsied. "You are a skilled dancer, Lord Armster. I hope we meet again…"
"What the devil-" he turned quickly, expecting to see Jezebel, but instead he was not surprised to find she had quickly been replaced by Emmaline. Deep auburn eyes met his pale blue, causing him to remark in surprise. "I see Jezebel was swift to ensure I have a dancing partner. What happened with you and Maurizio? I cannot blame you for trading him off." A hinting smirk spread across his lips, though she merely shrugged casually and latched onto his arm. "I sought better company tonight." She whispered in his ear, her voice so soft that he gazed at her and the way her long, auburn colored hair fell down her back while part of it was tied up in a flowing ponytail decorated with roses and lace. "After all, like everyone says, you are quite the dancer. I would like to experience the feeling of being swept off my feet by a handsome young lord."
A soft giggle filled the air, and he jerked his head away when she reached up to toy with the silken strands of his ivory hair. "My, for a lord you are quite shy!" she quickly commented and lowered her hand, as his eyes diverted away from her face to stare at the floor as if there was something interesting near his feet.
Although he was growing weary of conversation, he grasped her stiffly in his arms, keeping pace with the music and minding his temper. Nevertheless, the displeasure in his voice threatened to undo his efforts. "I wish everyone would cease mentioning my title. I may be a lord, but lest we forget that it was premature – my father's death…if it were not for that…"
"I beg your pardon, milord?" She asked, her eyes looking up at him in confusion. The woman nearly stopped dancing; her stance uneasy, until he drew her closer to him and his lips formed an apologetic smile.
"Never mind…lets just continue to dance. I apologize for my rudeness, milady. I am feeling a bit weary-"
"Word has already spread about that little disagreement between you and Lord Caelan. What was it about? Such talk does strike my fancy, you know." She smirked at him and gave another swift wink, which in turn made a loud sigh part from his lips.
"I hardly think that is anyone's concern. Lord Caelan needed to be taught a lesson in manors. Even so, I doubt the accuracy of what you heard."
He nearly mumbled his words while his eyes continued to stray as if not even controlled by him, and no matter how hard he tried he could not cease his search for Catherine. He knew she was probably dancing with another.
"You seem to have a sharp tongue, Lord Armster. Is there nothing anyone can do to delight you?"
"There is." He muttered under his breath. "I would prefer to dance with whom I choose, rather than those whom I do not…"
The moment her eyes fell into his he forced a smile and chuckled softly, all the while took up the dancing position and placed a hand at her waist and enclosed the other around her dainty fingers. "What are you muttering?" she spoke with a returned grin, and he thoughtlessly continued to chuckle until she pressed her face near his. "You are always keeping secrets! Consider that a request from a lady."
He paused and looked down at her face, seeing the glint reflecting in her eyes that was so piercing that he delayed explaining. "I was wonder if, perhaps, you knew Catherine's whereabouts? I have something important to tell her-"
"Oh, Catherine." The woman's earnestness dissipated. An audible tone of annoyance seeped into her voice, attempting to sting him for his imprudence like an angry wasp. "Did she accompany you here to serve the drinks? I pray she does not poison us all if that is so."
Emmaline's voice was so bitter that he nearly pulled away from her. A flash of anger appeared in his eyes, and he stopped in the middle of their dance, his grip upon her tightening while his frustration mounted. "I have known Catherine since my youth. Do not ever insult her in my presence." He hissed through gritted teeth, daring her to object as they stood in the middle of the floor glaring at one another. The woman's face reddened in response, her lips forcing themselves into a quivering smile. "I meant no harm." She whispered under her breath and lowered her head so that the other guests would think that she was shy, perhaps from being flattered by him. As quickly as she could, she withdrew her fan from a pocket in her dress and unfolded it. Like a nervous little bird, her hand held the object close to her face so that it was hidden from prying eyes. "Must we argue here, milord?" She snapped. "Why are you so troubled by a vagabond like her? She is a gypsy! Perhaps she is trying to fool you into believing her kind is capable of love-"
"Stop! I will hear no more of this!" Joachim's hand balled into a fist. Had she not been a woman, he may have struck her for what she said. "Hold your tongue, wench. My association with Catherine is none of your concern, do I make myself clear? She cared for me when no one else would – when I was ill she kept me company, told me stories, and treated me with dignity. I suppose I cannot expect someone like you to understand-"
"Oh, I understand perfectly." Emmaline's dark eyes glinted while she leaned closer to him, a smirk crossing her lips once their eyes met. "Indeed…" she continued. "A woman as pretty as she, is clever to befriend a wealthy young lord like yourself. How convenient! I must say, she is a discreet opportunist."
"What do you mean?" Joachim jerked his head back, his eyes widening from her implication.
"Well," Emmaline added without hesitating to lighten her tone upon being presented with the chance to ruin another woman's reputation. "They say the Corydon clan is in need of another marriage – sooner than expected, perhaps. I heard that her father is arranging to solve that little problem. Catherine is not in her father's favor as of late. Apparently, she refused to wed unless it is by her choice. A beggar like her would be lucky to marry a pauper!"
"Do you think this is true?" Joachim hid his urgency behind a solemn face, watching with a non blinking gaze when she cocked her head and replied.
"I know not. Catherine is regrettably, a favorite among her male counterparts. That is perhaps what troubles her father so, for she cannot even give a thought as to whom she wishes to marry."
A strange silence choked his throat, and his eyes once again lowered to stare at the floor. For a moment, he swayed in place, overcome by a surge of dizziness. "Joachim? Are you alright, you look awfully pale…" Upon hearing the woman's concern, he forced himself to look at her and gasped. "Why has she not mentioned this to me?" Although he was breathless, he could not contain the sudden fear that seeped through his veins. Every part of him ached of weakness, yet he was willing to risk his health to consider the situation.
Emmaline rolled her eyes and her voice was once again filled with distain. "As far as I know, Catherine has resisted her father's insistence that she marry. However, I imagine that her uncooperativeness will wane in time. Her father is eager to see her marry a local horse trader."
"I see…" he gazed about and finally breathed easier when the music ended. "It was a pleasure. I bid you a fair night, and may you enjoy the feast." He whirled to hurry away, but the moment he turned, her hand reached out in an attempt to pull him back. "Joachim?" She called, "Where are you off to now? You cannot seriously leave me here!"
Joachim ignored her. Everywhere the sounds of conversation filled his ears, yet he refused to give up no matter how long it took to find her. People's faces were shadowed by torchlight, making identifying specific faces more difficult than he expected. The young lord darted his way through the crowd, avoiding conversation when it was possible, and when not saying only a brief greeting as he went. The young man's frustration began to build until a loud applause startled him. He stopped and realized the attention of his guests had suddenly fallen upon him. It did not take him long to see why. The smell of food wafted through the room as Maurizio led a group of servants, each carrying a dish of various provisions toward the dining table.
His feet flew over the floor and he ducked between people, and his eyes brightened when they feasted not upon the food but upon the woman walking by herself toward the scene. "Catherine!" He called out loudly, smiling when she whirled to face him and waved him over.
"Joachim! I have been searching all over for you!" She hurried toward him and gave him a mischievous wink. The woman's thick black ringlets bounced with her steps. "I see Jezebel was swift to sweep you out of sight. Maurizio is looking for you as well. He wants you to carve the boar."
"I regret to say that I am not in the mood for a feast."
"Did you see the gifts your guests brought you? Some are simply magnificent!" She ushered to a nearby table where trinkets of gold and silver, as well as stacks of pies and fine chocolates were stacked in neat piles. "I would very much like to try some of that chocolate, it makes me so hungry just standing her staring at it!"
A soft sigh parted from his lips and he gave a silent nod. "Can the chocolates wait till later?" He asked, almost so quietly she could not hear. "Perhaps, if you are hungry we should eat together? I asked my servants to ensure that a chair was set next to mine at the table…it would be an honor if you would join me, Catherine."
A reflection of sheer surprise became evident in Catherine's emerald eyes, which prompted him to add. "I…did not intend to make you feel obligated. Of course, if you have other plans, I understand."
He noticed Catherine's cheeks flush a hint of pink while her eyes cast themselves to the floor. Then, as though she had finished collecting herself, her gaze found him again and she smiled. "I would be honored," She replied softly. "Are you certain you want me to sit by your side? What about Jezebel or Emmaline? Surely they would be more appropriate-"
"I care not what people think." He answered, "Except for you. I am proud to have you dine with me tonight. It means a great deal. I have never told you this, but…I…"
He felt his throat tighten suddenly, choking the breath from his lungs until he coughed and staggered, nearly losing his balance. Fortunately, Catherine was quick to rescue him, grabbing him by the arm so that he could lean on her for support. The young man's knees shook while he caught his breath, his face paling a shade of white that could have outmatched a ghost. Catherine waited until his coughing calmed before she said, her voice filled with alarm. "Joachim, are you alright? You have exerted yourself too much tonight, it is making you ill again. Come with me, tis' best you sit and regain your strength."
"Catherine-" before he could object, she shook her head and held up a hand.
"Not now Joachim. You're tired and I will not make it worse."
He felt his stomach churn in frustration, and his mind reeled to think no matter what he did his illness always got the better of him. He managed to set his posture upright, though gasped when he felt her warm hand slide over his forehead. The mere touch made his cheeks tingle again as before, but in turn she added in. "Oh look at yourself, your very hot and flushed! Why must you be so foolish with that manly image of yours, if your not feeling well go and join Maurizio at the head table. A little drink might soothe your temperature-"
"I am not ill Catherine!" he managed to burst again, and his eyes glared at her until she persistently took his arm. A slight smile played across her lips and she tugged him along without hesitation. It only took the sensation of her hands enclosed around his arm for him to follow her limply, but with each step a terrible scolding wreaked through his body and mind. When she stopped, his eyes widened as if taken out of a trance. "Is something the matter?" she paused and turned to the great wooden doors, which suddenly flung open to reveal the sounds of footsteps echoing loudly when the chatter in the room fell into silence.