CH.14 – Announcements
The feeling dug deep, cuttings its way down then up to her heart. What did this all mean? Just then a loud crash came from behind the wall they entered in. What the?
Rising the four Lords all lined up in front of the 'door' and awaited one of the guards that escorted Jess and Vandral in. When one appeared he bowed low and spoke, "My Lords, it is Scout Jean, he disrespectfully request to enter."
They all seemed to laugh quietly to themselves and Arkas finally said, "Let him enter."
Hearing another crash the wall slowly parted and Jean emerged into the light, slightly dirty and his uniform wrinkled. "My Lords!" He called.
Stepping slightly forward Arkas replied, "Yes Master Scout?"
"Where is she?" Jean looked furious, he was almost fuming at the ears and it was visibly hard for him to contain himself in front of his superiors. "Where…?"
Stepping aside so Jess was able to be seen Arkas pointed and said, "She is right here, fine and unharmed. Why? Were you concerned?"
Everything with these people seemed to be about politeness and a battle of who had the most vibrant vocabulary. But it worked, Jean significantly calmed and relaxed at the sight of Jess and it was then that his actions recapped onto him.
Stiffening, then dropping to a knee Jean apologized, "I ask for forgiveness for my actions and disrespect my Lords, I was blinded by anger…" He let the words hang, not sure on what more to say, if there was anything more to say.
The reaction out of the four councilmen startled Jess. The each chuckled again, and Samaras stepped forward. "We understand young Scout, and you are forgiven. This rage is well built in us all. I believe it is time for a little recreation. Don't you?" He looked down to Jean, who looked up to Samaras questionably.
Nodding in agreement Arkas said, "Yes, I concur, recreation and spending of these pent up nerves is in order. Vakras? Any suggestions?"
It was the first time Jess had seen one of the four councilmen grin, and Vakras's grin was much as Jean's was. "Yes, I believe the games should begin, don't you?" He looked to Lord Boarten."
He too nodded, "Yes, the games sound like a splendid idea. Make the call!"
Nodding Vandral, who Jess had completely forgotten about, bowed low and left the chamber.
Jessica was again confused out of her mind and looked to Jean for reinforcement. He was smiling now, totally changed from his fury of a minute ago. She asked a silent question, trying to speak to him with her eyes.
He didn't get it. So he turned his attention to Lord Arkas. "My Lord." He asked softly.
"Ah yes Master Scout." The four Lords had all drifted off to either sit again or get something to drink. "I had forgotten your presence. You may leave." Turning to Jessica he took her hand and kissed it. "Thank you for your company My Lady. See you soon."
Jess bowed her head and departed with Jean, her pace was quicker than his. He almost laughed at her swift exit. "Anxious to leave?"
"You weren't in there, alone with them." She glared at him.
"I've been like that. How'd you fare?" He was cautious, probing.
Realizing she had snapped at him, she smiled and slowed, "Sorry, that was… demanding."
Stopping he wrapped his arms around her and hugged a long, emotional hug. "I was worried you'd gotten lost and wandered. I couldn't smell you, couldn't find you anywhere…"
It's okay," She broke the hug, and placed her hands on his face. "I'm fine. I'm right here. I can take care of myself."
Nodding he agreed, "Yes I know, but I am still getting you an escort. Kay?"
Smiling she agreed silently and took his arm. "Let's get back to our room. I need a shower. And you need to explain these games to me."
Sweeping Jess off her feet Jean ran to a sprint and took her screaming with childish glee down the halls until they reached their room.