2; Latest Fashion
Felicity woke up to the sound of silence and the calm feeling of realizing that her dream was nothing more than memory. A figment of the past in the form of a nightmare meant to torment her. The red head swept her hand across her brow and sighed quietly in peace.
She looked to her side and picked up the book that currently held her attention, Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes. The book had not become widely popular among society, especially in Port Royal, but Felicity didn't much care for the opinion of others. At least not when it came to her reading material.
The tales of the sane madman and the wise fool entertained the woman as she dove into their world. She read in content for several minutes, before getting up from her large bed to start her day. She opened the drapes and the windows to allow the sun to illuminate the dark room.
The room was simple and practical, compared to Elizabeth's room next door, with a large queen bed, wardrobe, wash table, and vanity. The colors were set in jewel tones of red and blue with a hint of green in certain pieces. Just as Felicity wrapped herself in a cream robe to cover her white night gown a loud knock came from the door.
"Come in!" Felicity called as she pulled the robe closer in an attempt to be more modest.
The door opened to reveal Governor Swann and Felicity's maid, Lucretia. Lucretia was a rather large girl with hazel eyes and dark brown hair pulled into the latest hairstyle in Port Royal. She was outgoing and bright for someone of her standing, and had become as good a friend as a lady of Felicity's standing could have.
Lucretia sent her lady a small smile as she shut the door after Governor Swann entered. Governor Swann gestured for a large white box to be placed on Felicity's bed with haste. Felicity raised an eyebrow at both Governor Swann and Lucretia, giving them a curious look.
"At least you are awake and decent, my dear." Governor Swann began after bringing her into a small hug. "I fear Elizabeth is not even awake."
"She never was a morning person, sir." Felicity pointed out as a soft laugh escaped her lips.
"She prefers the company of dreams rather than reality is more like it." Governor Swann agreed. "Just like her mother."
Felicity's heart went out to her guardian as he lowered his head in sadness. Elizabeth's mother was a sore topic of conversation for the Governor and was often avoided. It was very rare in their society for two people to marry for love, yet Elizabeth's parents had.
Their marriage served as a reminder for Felicity that marrying for love and status was possible. The aristocracy had tried its hardest to drive out all of her hopes and dreams for her life but Governor Swann always gave her hopes. Marrying for love instead of position was not a crime and her guardian would never let her forget it.
Felicity decided to change the subject from a sad one to happy one as she asked, "What is in the box, Governor?"
A gleam of humor twinkled in his eye as he replied, "A gift for my ward."
Felicity went over to the box and carefully lifted the lid to reveal the most handsome dress she had ever beheld. The beautiful dress was cut in the Robe à la française style that was becoming quite popular among the people of high society. It was in a teal color made of fine silk and cotton with floral embroidery. Felicity ran her fingers along the delicate fabric as a genuine smile made its way onto her face.
"It's beautiful, sir."
Governor Swann smiled at her and gestured for Lucretia to help her into the dress, "I will be going to give Elizabeth her gift. When you are dressed please join us in her chamber."
Felicity let out a hum in agreement and watched as he promptly left the room. As soon as the door was shut Lucretia set to work helping Felicity into the extravagant dress. Although it was a fine gown Felicity knew instantly while undressing that it would be horribly uncomfortable to where in the Caribbean heat.
The skirt was full and rested smoothly along her curve. When coupled with the corset, or the contraption of doom, Felicity's already small waist appeared even more so. The back of the dress was pleated and draped down over the skirt in a waterfall like fashion. She couldn't believe her eyes once Lucretia had finished.
"The dress looks stunning, Miss." Lucretia complimented as she sat Felicity down to do her hair. "Do you think it was made for the special occasion?"
"I have no doubt that Governor Swann had these dresses made with James Norrington's promotion ceremony in mind." Felicity answered fondly.
The young woman sighed as her thoughts wandered to the new commodore. James Norrington and Felicity Smith remained good friends ever since they first arrived in Port Royal. She would often be invited to attend afternoon tea with him and in return she was allowed access to his extensive library.
During their afternoon tea they would converse about his latest excursions and the latest book that had caught her fancy. They shared a passion for adventure and also a love for the sea. Although many people gossiped that they would make a fine match, it was well known that he fancied her companion, Elizabeth.
Once Lucretia had finished wrestling Felicity's bright red mane into an elegant updo, did. the young ward took a look in the mirror. Her pale skin seemed to glow as her bright blue eyes popped in contrast to the exquisite dress. Felicity felt absolutely regal and for a moment forgot herself.
"I feel like a heroine in one of my books."
Lucretia smiled as she pinned a straw hat to Felicity's head, "Which tale has currently caught your fancy?"
Felicity turned in her chair with a hint of mischief in her eye, "If you want I can read you to the first chapter? I would love your opinion."
Lucretia shook her head, "You promised Governor Swann that you would see to Miss Swann. Perhaps later in the evening after the ceremony? I know my children would love to hear a new tale from the famous Miss Smith."
Felicity laughed, "One day I'll read one of my many tales to your children in person."
Lucretia bowed her head, "They would like that very much Miss. I look forward to introducing you."
Felicity gave her friend a nod before standing and taking her leave. Lucretia had many more tasks to oversee and Felicity didn't want the woman to get in trouble. She entered Elizabeth's room and almost laughed as she watched the Governor of Port Royal question his daughter about the promotion ceremony.
"I had hoped you might wear it for the ceremony today."
"The Ceremony?" Elizabeth asked.
"Captain Norrington's promotion ceremony?"
Felicity watched in amusement as Elizabeth popped out from behind the changing area, "I knew it!"
"I thought I mentioned this yesterday evening Lizzy? Or do you forget everything I tell you?" Felicity inquired.
Felicity rounded the separator to see two maids pulling the strings of Elizabeth's corset as the young girl gasped for breath. Elizabeth was dressed in fine silk, even more so than Felicity, as she found the girl covered in a beautiful cream colored gown. It was cut in a similar style but was laced with pearls and small jewels that covered the bodice. Her hair was in her curls atop her head and she was flushed with color as she fanned herself. Felicity could tell right away that the corset was too tight.
"How's it coming?"
A large gasp from her companion told Felicity everything she needed to know, but Elizabeth replied, "It's difficult to say."
Felicity shifted in her own corset as she watched Elizabeth struggle with her. She wanted to help, but both maids were stubborn when it came to making their mistress look impeccable. The red head would just have to loosen the death trap on her companion later.
"I'm told it's the latest fashion in London." Governor Swann added. before realizing that his comments weren't wanted nor needed.
"Well, women in London must've learned not to breathe." Elizabeth spat out as she took another large gasp of air.
Governor Swann realized that his comments weren't wanted nor needed and he left the room without another word. Felicity handed one of the maids, Estrella, gave her a cheeky smile before turning to continue her duties. Although Felicity knew Elizabeth couldn't breathe she couldn't help but be slightly jealous at how gorgeous she looked.
"You look beautiful Lizzy."
Elizabeth gave Felicity a soft smile and replied, "As do you Sisi."
The red head sent her a smile in return, before noticing a golden chain around her neck. Upon further inspection she realized what it was, "Lizzy, please tell me you didn't keep it?"
Elizabeth lowered her eyes as her hand touched the chain, "I didn't know what to do except keep it."
"What will you do if someone finds it?" Felicity demanded. "You could be seen as a sympathizer and I would be accused of hiding the wretched thing. We could both hang for this!"
"I don't know!" Elizabeth replied looking down. "It was the only thing I had to remember Will by."
Felicity sighed before hooking her arm through Elizabeth's, "Just keep it hidden and don't let anyone see it."
Elizabeth did as she was told and tucked the pirate medallion back into her bodice. Felicity knew Elizabeth felt guilty about having the medallion, which originally belonged to a young William Turner, but she had also witnessed the consequences of having such an item in one's possession.
She remembered the first time she saw the hanging of a condemned man. He had been disguised as a common farm hand and had fooled everybody into believing he wanted to sign up for the Navy. In the end the pirate had been caught trying to steal firearms from the armory and was sentenced to die by hanging.
After the incident the small port had begun to question everybody including the elite and it caused Felicity to become slightly paranoid. She tried to convince Elizabeth multiple times to get rid of the evidence of their childlike wonder, but she refused. The only reason that Felicity has disposed of the item herself was out of respect for her companion and for the young blacksmith.
Together the two women left her room to meet the Governor in order to depart for the promotion ceremony. The two walked in a comfortable silence down the hall as servants bustled about with their work. They made it about halfway down the stairs when Felicity's eyes landed on a familiar face. Will Turner looked handsome in his pressed brown coat and worn down breeches. His hair was pulled into a low ponytail behind his neck and some slight stubble could be seen on his chiseled face.
The scared little boy had grown into a strapping young man with an apprenticeship at Mr. Brown's shop as an aspiring Blacksmith. As far as Felicity knew he excelled at his craftsmanship and he was thankful to Governor Swann with providing him the opportunity. He had become a good friend to Felicity and had even offered to give her lessons in shooting a pistol after learning of her fascination with them because of a book in James' library.
"Will!" Elizabeth called as she made her way over to stand next to her father. "It's so good to see you."
"It's been too long Will." Felicity added as she followed alongside her.
Will gave the pair a charming smile as he nodded politely at the both of them, but Felicity watched in amusement as his gaze remained entirely on Elizabeth. She knew that Elizabeth and Will fancied each other and she would tease them constantly. She wished they could be together, but their stations in society stood in the way.
Elizabeth was the only daughter of the Governor of Port Royal and her father needed her to make an excellent match. Unfortunately for Will that meant a lowly blacksmith was out of the question. However that didn't stop them from stealing longing glances at one another and Felicity had witnessed every single one.
"I had a dream about you last night." Elizabeth announced causing her father and Felicity to look at her with surprise.
Will practically choked on air, "Really?"
Governor Swann didn't look happy with the topic of conversation, "Elizabeth, this is hardly appropriate-"
Elizabeth ignored her father's attempt at changing the conversation and pressed on, "About the day we met. Do you remember?"
Will just bowed his head, "I could never forget it, Miss Swann."
Elizabeth looked frustrated with Will, "Will, how many times must I ask you to call me 'Elizabeth'?"
"At least once more, Miss Swann. As always." Will replied with yet another bow.
Elizabeth looks over at Felicity with disappointment in her eyes. The red head knew she was a little hurt by his response, but it was how he addressed her when her father was around. The boy had been brought up to behave like a gentleman and Elizabeth's presence wasn't going to deter him from his tutoring.
Governor Swann was ecstatic to see that Will could maintain his composure around his reckless daughter, "Well said! There's a boy who understands propriety. Now we really must be going."
Elizabeth gave Will a curt nod, "Good day, Mr. Turner."
"Come along."
Felicity watched as Elizabeth and her father took their leave from the room, but she stayed behind. She knew he had come over to deliver James' new sword for his promotion ceremony and was aware that Governor Swann would credit the fine marksmanship to Mr. Brown rather than to Will. Felicity had been around the shop long enough to know that everything that left those doors was because of Will.
"I'm sure the sword looks beautiful Will." Felicity said as she gave him a smile. "My compliments to the maker."
Will noticed her knowing smile and replied with a smile of his own, "Thank you Miss Smith."
"I hope you have an easy day, Will."
Will shook his head, "When do I ever have an easy day, Elise?"
Felicity smiled at the nickname before she bowed and left to join her family. She entered the carriage with help from the footman and after a moment they were off. While Governor Swann was busy reading the papers Elizabeth turned to Felicity with a curious look.
"What did you say to Will?"
"The truth." Felicity said. "That I hope he has a good rest of the day."
Elizabeth watched her for a moment before dropping the subject altogether. While Elizabeth busied herself with adjusting her corset Felicity watched the scenery flow by. She had always been good at finding her sea legs, but a rocking carriage was another matter entirely. Felicity stared at the horizon as she tried not to get sick on her new dress and the rest of her company.