CHAPTER NINE: THE WIND IN OUR SAIL
Lythikos Duchy, Northern Alps, Cordonia, Friday, April 2nd, 2018
The rest of the days passed by rather well and soon. Ridley had enjoyed the rest of the days by skiing with Gilderoy, who, he learned, was quite a competitor against him; Glideroy was pretty quiet, but he wasn't hard to be around. He did like talking about his and Madeline's home manor in the Scottish Highlands, their home country. When Ridley told him about his goal to see the world, especially Scotland; Gilderoy began to engage more and even gave Ridley a list of sights he demanded him to see when he went there.
"Trust me on this." he had told Ridley,, "You can't say you've visited Scotland until you've seen these places in particular."
"The native has spoken," Ridley had replied, "And I'll grant his request."
After that, he and Gilderoy went inside for lunch.
Four days passed after that; one morning, Ridley woke up to a knock on his door and a note being slid under it. it read, "We're leaving today; pack up and meet us outside."
Ridley did so. He packed his things, dressed in the outfit he wore on his first day in the Chateau and headed outside with Maxwell and Marcella, who met him in the foyer. "
"Looks like everyone's just about ready," said Maxwell; noting the rest of the group outside, which included Diana, Lisette and her guards, as well as the suitors and their sisters, as well as the other guests of honor. A convoy of vehicles drove slowly up the driveway towards the chateau. The first in line being Lisette's limo. She ducked inside as it slowly departed; next up was the Nevrakis limo.
"I can't believe it's time to go…" sighed Olivia.
Olivier shrugged, "We've had four days here with our guests; time to move on to the next event."
Kiara nodded, "I'm ready to get back some where a little warmer."
Kieran punched her on the arm, "A little? how about a lot!"
Hana noticed Ridley as he approached them; by that time, the others were piling into their respective limos, one at a time. "There you are, Ridley! Are you excited for the Royal Regata tomorrow?"
Ridley blinked in surprise, "The Royal Regata?"
"That's Cordonia's ceremonial boat race." Explained Marcella, "You've been to a regatta before, right?" Ridley said nothing, Which Marcella took as a no. "Well, We did say we were going yachting on the Mediterranean…" she said as they escorted Ridley to their limo…
The Royal Palace, Cordonia, Sunday, April 4th, 2018
The morning of the Royal Regatta was upon Ridley; Something that stayed with him as he woke up and showered. After a breakfast that included eggs benedict, bacon, seasoned potatoes and fresh fruit, Bertrand, Maxwell and Marcella walked him back to his suite.
"Ahhh..." breathed Maxwell, "It's nice to be back. Don't get me wrong, I loved our ski chateau adventure, but give me a good beach party anyday."
Ridley chuckled, "Is that what's going on? I thought we were watching a bunch of boats race."
"Well," said Marcella, "The Royal Regatta is a morning of sailboat races..."
"Followed by an afternoon beach party!" her fiancé' finished.
Ridley noticed that throughout it all, Bertrand remained silent and stoic; not once voicing his opinions or calling out Marcella, "Hold up." he said, raising a finger, "Something is different today. It's Bertrand. He hasn't said anything grumpy all morning."
Ridley's words knocked Bertrand out of his stoic behavior, uhh...what?" he stammered.
"Normally, you'd be saying things like...'it's not a beach party, it's a dignified beach soiree.', or 'Don't embarrass House Beaumont, commoner.'
Maxwell laughed, "He does say that stuff, doesn't he?"
Bertrand shook himself, "I suppose I have been distracted lately. I've bee dealing with some complicated matters concerning our estate."
Ridley looked sympathetic, "Sorry to hear that."
He nodded stiffly, "...Thank you, I suppose. Now, I apologize for being distracted. You have my full attention." He glanced up and down at Ridley's outfit, which was a black two piece suit with a green shirt and black slip on shoes. "I have to ask, is that what you plan on wearing, Ridley?"
Ridley rolled his eyes, "...and he's back."
"I think she looks well enough." said Marcella.
"Be that as it may," responded Bertrand, "You may want something more...seaworthy. Not only will you be participating in the first race-"
"Stop right there!" Blurted Ridley, the words bursted out from his mouth before his brain could stop them. "I'm going to be what?!"
Bertrand didn't waver, "But the Regatta is open to the public, so the press will be there to take the photos and do interviews. It might behoove you to wear something more...nautical."
Ridley moved in front of them and held up a halting hand, "Can we please go back to the part where I'm racing?"
Bertrand calmly motioned for him to lower his hand, which he did, "Anytime a social season involves picking a royal groom, the first race of the Regatta is traditionally one that all the suitors participate in. It's mostly for show really..."
Ridley exhaled a huge breath, "Whew! There's no pressure to win then..."
"Oh, there's pressure." replied Bertrand in a deadpan voice; his expression barely flickering. " The Regatta is one of King Constantine's favorite events. He bestows an honor upon the man who wins the ceremonial race, so it's an opportunity to get yourself in his good graces. The more you win his approval, the higher your chances of winning." Ridley felt the weight of the pressure rack his body, which Bertrand noticed, "But you needn't worry. I'm commissioned a qualified crew to man your yacht. All you need to worry about is looking good at the boat deck railing."
"So...what you're saying is I need to head to the boutique? Again?"
"It wouldn't hurt to look..." said Maxwell.
Bertrand lifted an eyebrow suspiciously,
"Alright, alright, I'm on my way." said Ridley.
He walked to the boutique and began to scan the shelves for a particular outfit to put together. After a few minutes of searching the racks, he found one. It consisted of a pair of white khakis; a navy blue double breasted suit jacket with a sea captain's pin on the lapel, a white polo shirt, and topped off with a white navy sea captain's cap and a pair of matching loafers. He looked like the captain of a modern day Titanic, if not a large luxury yacht.
He glanced down at the outfit and looked in the mirror; he looked great, but he felt that something was lacking. Suddenly, he noticed a white button down short sleeved shirt in the shirt rack and selected it as well as a sky blue ascot; he took off his polo and jacket and put them on before donning the jacket and hat again.
He looked in the mirror at his appearance and happily saluted himself. "I'm off to see the sea! Anchors aweigh!" He slipped a pair of pearl white shades with dark blue tinted lenses in his jacket pocket and left the boutique.
The Marina, Cordonia.
A short time later. Ridley, Maxwell, Marcella and Bertrand arrived at the Nation's marina. From his seat, Ridley could see a hoard of grandiose, colorful boats, sailboats, speedboats and a myriad of yachts of different sizes, colors and even decorum, all docked at the marina and had been decorated to the tens for the Regatta. The majority of them were medium sized and reminded Ridley of some he had seen back home when a few rich businessmen that his father consorted with at one of his social gatherings had shown him and their family pictures of various vacations they took with them. At least two or three, maybe even five, large sized yachts were docked at the end of the marina's wooden dock,; several more were out at sea, their decks heavily occupied by the owners and their personal guests. all of them had diverse paint jobs, some were white, others were navy blue, and one was white and black. Others were out at sea in smaller party boats, wave runners, jet skis and skidoos, among various other watercrafts, including catamarans, paddle boards and sailboats with large, colorful sails. The rest of the yachts docked at the marina were medium sized, but still looked so luxurious and nice that Ridley had to remind himself to focus time and time again as he and his sponsors disembarked from their limo.
"This is great!" said Marcella as they disembarked, "The weather's perfect!"
Ridley smiled, applied the white shades to his eyes and threw his arms up, basking in the warmth of the sun, "Yeah...sun's out, fun's out!"
Betrayed waved a dismissive hand, "All right, you two, that's enough. Keep your wits about you. Now, Lord Ridley, you must always remember that in a crowded venue like this, a photo can be taken at any time…refrain from silliness. And a small word of advice…if the press corners you, be sure to hint that the Princess likes you, but be subtle in your word choice and delivery.
Ridley nodded, "Noted. We're close, but not too close."
Betrand nodded, "Exactly."
Ridley and Bertrand scanned the throngs of attendees; almost immediately, he spotted Princess Lisette, with a poker faced Diana at her side. Lisette saw Ridley through the crowd and strode over to him, motioning for Diana to follow her.
"Ah, the princess and Lady Diana." said the Duke, "Maxwell and I will get all the paperwork squared away, while you go mingle. Marcella, stay with him and mingle. Our yacht will be docked at gate B.
The brothers walked off together to the nearby booth. As they left, Ridley and Marcella focused on the crowd where they saw Lisette; but they didn't seen her. Suddenly, they saw her stride towards them. This time, Diana wasn't with her.
"Ridley…fancy seeing you here! And Lady Marcella!" she smiled and the two ladies pecked each other on the cheek. "It must be a strange coincidence we keep showing up at the same events."
"Fate must be on our side." replied Ridley,
"And, for the record, He was invited." Added Marcella.
Lisette giggled and kissed hRidley on the check. "You look very handsome today, by the way. I love the sea captain look you're sporting."
Ridley glanced down at his outfit and adjusted his ascot, "How do you even know it was me? For all you know, I could just be a nobody in a captain's outfit."
Lisette chuckled, "So modest. You were with Maxwell, Marcella and Bertrand; Need I say more?"
"I don't think so." chuckled Marcella. "I'll go mingle for a bit, but I'll be close by. Watch yourselves, you two." She winked at them and walked a short distance.
Ridley glanced down at his outfit, "Heh, hopefully I won't have to openly sell being an actual captain…but I do have a race to win today…"
Lisette nodded, "Ah,yes, the ceremonial race. You know, it's an honor be part of the Regatta tradition."
Ridley snorted and gestured to the yachts around the marina, "The tradition of rich people having private boats?"
Lisette followed his gaze and put an arm around him, "The Regatta more symbolic than that. Since Cordonia isn't very big, we don't have many glorious battles as part of our identity…or, at least, we haven't for several hundred years. But we do have a defining moment. When a storm ravaged our neighbors across the sea, Cordonia responded by manning every available boat to bring humanitarian supplies to the devastated area. It was one of our finest hours. So, this Regatta symbolizes the generosity of the Cordovans and the strong bonds we've forged with our neighbors."
Ridley was awed at the event's history. "That' every noble; I'm honorable to participate." He suddenly wished that his world history lessons had featured that particular piece of history; come to think of it, he didn't know why no noticeable piece of Cordonian History was written down and taught in classes. He faced Lisette and glanced into her eyes. "Now, tell me the truth…are you enjoying yourself."
Lisette nodded, "It's a beautiful day, the staff has been well-prepared, and we're ready to celebrate our fine seafaring tradition. My father in particular seems in high sprits, but, then again, he always loves this event.
Ridley folded his arms, That's all well and good…but you didn't even try to answer my question; and you're not smiling! What's wrong?!
Lisette blinked in surprise, "Well…" She shifted her feet uncomfortably, faced Ridley, and finally responded, "My father loves the Regatta so much, I've never had the heart to tell him that I hate sailing."
Ridley cocked his head, "Really? I thought you were descended from Poseidon!"
Lisette Laughed, "Ha ha; maybe I'd like boats more if that were the case. I actually used to enjoy sailing, but one experience soured me on it."
Ridley leaned against the nearby post, "I'm listening."
Lisette motioned for him to follow her, and they strolled on and around the marina, "Let's say I once felt the call of freedom on the sea. When Diana and I were young kids…we snuck out one one of the royal sloops…"
The Marina, Cordonia, Fifteen years ago.
The weather that day had been sunny, but it soon turned gray and windy when we were a few kilometers out.
"Anchors aweigh!" I cried out, once we were in open water.
"We're the queens of the world! Wahoo!" cheered Diana from the bow.
Everything was going smoothly at first; and we probably could've managed farther of we'd been more experienced. Unfortunately, The waters grow more choppy, the further we went out
"We gotta turn around!" Cried Diana, "Get us back to shore!"
"Aye, Aye, Captain!" I responded.
I turned the helm hard to port to do so, but the waters were too choppy and the rudder couldn't move in time. Suddenly, a wave caught the boat and lifted it up, which kept us from moving the boat, and it entirely capsized.
I managed to find her and pull her back with me, but we were far out to sea. We had to swim back. I'm not sure which was worse: the cold air, the taste of saltwater or the fact that we had to push the entire capsized boat all the way back to the shore so that we wouldn't get in trouble! Luckily it all worked, albeit barely. We were cold, wet and exhausted…but we survived.
The Marina, Cordonia, Present Day.
Ridley shook this head, "Wow, That must've been awful.
Lisette nodded, "It was."
"Don't you think your father should know?"
Lisette shook her head, "You don't know him like I do. It would devastate him. And beside, pretending to enjoy it for a few hours once a year is the least I can do for the old man. Although what I went through was a pretty miserable experience, I can laugh about it now. I've never told anyone that story. No one even found out about what we did…although my interest in sailing did drop quite a bit after that."
Ridley folded his arms again, "A bit? I think you mean almost completely. You said so yourself."
"I don't hate it altogether, Ridley. I'll do it if I need do, but it's not a go to pastime for me." Their conversation was broken up by the sound of the herald's trumpet. "Oh, it's time for my father's opening remarks."
Ridley and Lisette gazed over towards the end of the marina, where King Constantine stood on an elevated platform with a microphone. A growing crowd formed around him. He motioned for them all to quiet down; once all was quiet, he spoke loudly. The crowd around Ridley and Lisette began to bustle as reporters and cameramen commenced their broadcast of the main event.
"Ladies and Gentlemen of Cordonia…I welcome you all! Today is a momentous day. As you know, I have a soft spot for the Royal Regatta, and it remains one of my favorite events of the social season. Because this event has always held historical significance and personal importance, I have chosen today to make my announcment: As of the end of this social season, I'll be stepping down as your reigning monarch…and in a few weeks' time, Princess Lisette will be your new ruler!" Lisette, thoroughly abashed at the revelation, stumbled in her white heels, but caught herself before Ridley needed to step in. Several reporters lobbed questions at the King, but he silenced them all with a wave of his hand. "I expect you all have questions. I promise you in due time that I will release an official statement. For now, allow an old man time to enjoy the festivities. Let the Regatta begin!"
As he stepped down from the docks, Lisette motioned for Ridley to follow her as she led him away from the crowd and towards the Marina's dock. He studied her face for a sigh of how she was feeling after her father's announcement, but couldn't see it; mainly due to the white sunglasses covering her blue eyes.
"Lisette?" she turned to face him. "I'm not sure I truly understand what's going on. At least, not yet."
My Father is stepping both as king and as the reigning ruler of Cordonia. Which will make me Queen of Cordonia and the reigning Royal of the nation."
Finally, the enormity of the situation hit Ridley hard. "Whoa." he responded.
Lisette nodded morosely, "Yes, exactly." She sighed, "I mean, I knew I'd someday rule over Cordonia, Just not so soon. To realize that I'm going to become Queen in a matter of weeks…Well, that's a lot."
Ridley looked at her empathetically, "If I may, not many women have the double task of ascend to the throne of their nation and choosing a husband all at once…"
Lisette wasn't smiling, "Ridley, it means that my future husband, whomever he is, will be thrown directly into the role of King Consort."
Ridley paused for a moment, "About that…Are you sure it's King Consort? Not actual King?"
Lisette nodded. "It's King Consort. Especially if my future husband isn't of Royal blood."
"Oooh…I see." Feeling very nervous about the subject, he decided to change it. "It seems like all this really caught you off guard."
Lisette nodded, "My father usually keeps my counsel on all matters. I wonder why he didn't discuss this with me…" She banished the thought with a wave of her hand. "But I'll talk to him later. For now, he's right. Let's try to enjoy today."
Ridley nodded. "I agree, Lisette."
Before they could do anything; Ridley looked behind him and noticed that a few members of the press had followed them. Lisette noticed them too.
"We'd better answer a few questions for the press. " She said, "Time to put our best smiles on."
"I only give my best smile to whom I want to give it to."
"At least give your half best."
The two stopped walking, allowing the press to reach them. Donnie Brine was among them.
"Your highness…" He called out cheerfully, "A few questions please?"
"Of course." Responded the Princess.
Donnie extended his microphone "The King's announcement was quite a surprise! What do you think about it? when did you find out?"
"As much as I'd love to answer. My father has made it clear that he will issue a statement later. For now, I have no comment."
Donnie grinned, "If you can't talk about the announcement then, then we'll have to talk about something else. You're looking awfully friendly with the mystery man…"
Lisette chuckled, "Is that what they're calling Lord Ridley?"
Donnie nodded, "The public does find him an enigma. But let's cut to the heart of the real mystery: What's the connection between you two? After all, the Social season's more than halfway over, and with the King's announcement, you're basically choosing your future King Consort in a matter of weeks."
"I was aware my future groom would be King Consort. The immediacy of my becoming Queen doesn't change much at this time.."
Several camera flashes from the various camera crews went off. Ridley had been standing a few steps back, but now he had stepped forward next to Lisette.
"You wish to know what's going on between the Princess and I?" he asked the reporter. "Well, I do care for her, but we'll still getting to know each other."
Lisette smiled in response, "I couldn't have put it better myself."
"Do you feel the same about Lord Ridley, your highness?"
"Yes, I care for her." Smiled Lisette, "But as he said, we are still learning about one another."
Donnie nodded; clicked off his microphone, and began hurriedly jotting down notes in his notepad, "Now that's something the people will love to know…"
Ana De Luca had been standing back with the other photographers. Donnie noticed her and gave her the nod to step forward and take her turn with Ridley and Lisette. She did so, taking her notepad and pen from her blazer pocket.
"Lord Ridley, surely you're aware of the historical significance of the Royal Regatta; do you have anything to say on this momentous day about it?"
Ridley remembered Bertrand's advice and nodded, "Of course. The Regatta is a symbol of Cordonia's generous spirit. The People's effort to give humanitarian aid and relief is truly inspiring, and I believe it represents Cordonia's interconnectedness with its neighbors."
"Well-put." commented Lisette.
"I agree." said Ana.
Lisette stepped between them. "As wonder as it has been to connect with you all, the races are about to begin, and Lord Ridley's due at the starting line.
Donnie and Ana both nodded, "One last thing: Can we get a photo of you two together?
Lisette smiled, "Of course!"
Donnie raised his camera. almost immediately before he snapped the photo. Ridley acted impulsively; he leaned up and kissed Lisette on the cheek. "Perfect." He thought. Both Ridley and Lisette smiled, glad that Ridley's action had the desired effect. "Thank you, your highness." Said Donnie. "And you, Lord Ridley….It's been an absolute pleasure."
"Have a nice day." said Lisette. They walked off towards the docks as the reporters left elsewhere. "I think that went well."
"Oh?" said Ridley.
"I can tell by now when they like someone. I'm glad…the people take there cues form the press."
Marcella rejoined them and motioned for him to follow her, "Come on, Ridley. the race will start soon. I know where your yacht is."
She lead him down the dock towards gate B, where the Beaumonts' yacht was. It was one of the larger yachts docked at the marina. It wasn't as large or decked out to the tens like the others there, but it was still beyond impressive. It was painted a black, white and navy blue color pattern and contained at at five noticable decks. two of them were the lower decks and the other three were open decks.
"Ridley, Marcella, over here!" Said Maxwell from the lowest boat deck.
Marcella waved back, "Come, Ridley; Our ride awaits!"
Ridley looked back at Lisette, "You're not coming? You can witness my hopeful triumph first-hand."
Lisette sighed, "I wish I could, but my place is with the King right now. I'll witness your victory from there. Good luck!"
As she walked away, Ridley and Marcella walked up the loading dock and onto the middle of the highest deck where Maxwell and Bertrand met them. A fifth party was on the deck as well, lounging lazily on a deck sofa; It was Diana.
She stared at Ridley, her poker face present like always. "May I help you, Knightley?"
Ridley was dumbstruck, "I have several questions: Diana? What are you dong here? Maxwell, didn't you leave with Bertrand? And lastly, shouldn't there be other people on deck? Like…an actual crew?!"
"Yeah, Maxwell. What happened?" Diana called out sarcastically.
Maxwell's face deflated instantly, "Well…I have good news and bad news."
"Good news first." said Ridley.
"The good news is you have a crew to man the yacht for the race."
Ridley knew that could mean the bad news was coming, and it wouldn't be pretty. "And the bad news…"
"…We're the crew."
Ridley jerked backwards against the deck sofa behind him; the same one Diana was lounging on. "What happened to the people you hired, Bertrand?"
Bertrand said nothing, but she shame scrawled over his face sold Ridley on how he felt.
Maxwell stepped forward, "Yes, well, our funds being what they were…They dropped out." Marcella folded her arms disapprovingly's she was obviously upset at being kept out of the loop on business matters like this one. Maxwell noticed her and quickly spoke, "But not to worry; Diana volunteered to help us!"
Ridley echoed Marcella's body language, folding his arms and giving Maxwell a disapproving look, "She 'volunteered'?"
Diana lifted her head and shook her head, "Maxwell begged me."
"That must've been rather dignified." noted Marcella.
"Dignified? He was practically in tears." chuckled Diana.
Ridley glanced at each one of them before answering. "You all know how to sail, right?"
Maxwell shuffled his feet, "I used to own several boats, and Diana is an excellent boater."
Ridley chuckled, "Thanks for doing this, Diana."
Diana waved a dismissive hand, "Aw, shucks, Knightley, I couldn't leave you…up the creek without a paddle.
"From what I hear, you're terrible with boats."
"Ha, Ha, very funny."
Ridley glanced around the area, "Wait, where's Bertrand? He'd better not be bailing on us and wallowing in shame."
Maxwell faced Ridley, "His words were, and I quote, 'Have we fallen so far? Is this what becomes of House Ramsford?' And then he muttered something about ruin and reducing our name to rubble and then I hope we went to get a drink or something after that."
Ridley nodded, "Sounds about right. What about Tara? She looks like she could sail a boat." Diana exploded into a loud fit of laughter, which gave Ridley the message. "IT was just a thought, Diana." He snapped.
Diana took a breath to steady herself, "Yeah, yeah, whatever you say, Knightly. Bottom line: you're not going to be relaxing and cruising around like the other men."
Ridley chuckled, "Funny; when last I remember that, It was the women who relaxed in the sun while the men tolled away to get these luxury crafts on the water; particularly during Prince Leo's time."
Diana glanced at her suspiciously. "And who told you that? You probably didn't even know we existed before we meet you."
He shrugged, as he removed his sunglasses and wiped them with his jacket's pocket square "Marcella and Maxwell told me."
Marcella started to speak in defense, but stopped he Ridley batted his eye in the form of a subtle wink. Maxwell started as well, only to Ridley to echo the motion. The glanced at Ridley, then each other, and quickly got the message. "Actually, Diana; we told him." She said, turning to Diana.
"You sure you're up to the task?" Asked Diana.
Ridley smirked, "Only if YOU can keep up….and only if I can be the captain."
Diana returned the smirk, "You're on, Knightley."
"Aye, Aye, captain!" said Marcella and Maxwell together, saluting him.
Ridley brought up an quick tutorial as he entered the bridge. the article had a picture of the yacht's controls; he slipped it into his pocket and took his place at the controls. When he stepped inside, he noted footsteps behind him. He spun around t see Hana freezing up in the doorway.
"Hana?"
Diana and Marcella tailed him inside, not noticing Ridley's quick internet search. "Well, Captain?" said Diana.
"No time to lose. Let's cast off."
Diana nodded and tied the last rope inside the boat. "Casting off!"
Marcella and Maxwell unfurled the sails as Ridley fired up the propellers and steered the boat to the startling line. on his left was Olivier's yacht, on his right was Gilderoy's yacht.
"Good luck to you both." Gilderoy Called to them.
Olivier sneered, "I don't need luck. I know I'm going to cross first." He turned back to his place. "Hope you two enjoy your losses!"
Ridley scowled to him for a minute then snapped his head towards Maxwell on the boat deck. "Maxwell!" he called. The lord was at his side in a minute. "How did we win this thing?"
Maxwell shrugged, "Well, I guess you're driving the boat, since you're already on the bridge."
"And…?"
"The rest of us will man the sails. Just be sure to watch the wind indicator for us. Whenever it shifts, tell us, so we can adjust the sails accordingly."
Diana nodded in agreement, "We'll tel you what else needs to be done as it comes."
"Right." he turned back to the controls and the helm, No pressure… He thought nervously.
Marcella glanced out on at the marina, "Looks like the race is able to start!"
King Constantine stood on the same elevated platform on which he had given his earlier speech, holding the starting pistol. Queen Regina and Princess Lisette stood on either side of him.
"Racers ready!"
Diana gripped the railing with excitement. "Here we go…"
The King raised the gun and pulled the trigger! "…And go!"
Diana, Maxwell and Marcella unfurled the sails as Ridley threw the engines into all ahead full.
Olivier smiled smugly as her yacht started to take the lead. "I'll be waiting at the finish line!" Olivia smiled smugly as well from her sun chair and waved at them.
Suddenly, the wind picked up, which propelled the boat forward. Ridley gasped the helm "Okay, hold it steady." he said.
"Got it." said Diana. "Hold it steady."
Suddenly, Ridley noticed the wind indicator on the bridge began to shift. "The wind's changed!" he shouted into the radio.
"Got it!" cried Marcella, "Adjusting sails now."
The three of them bustled around the boat, adjusting the angles of the sails. Ridley set the engines on autopilot, instructed Hana to keep her eyes on the sea ahead, and jumped down to assist them. As he joined them, Marcella tossed him a rope.
"Hey, Ridley" she said, "Tie this down for us! We need to hold the sail in place."
Ridley took it, wrapped it around the notch on the deck and secured it with a strong and study sailor's knot. Perfect. He thought, satisfied. He looked up and saw a buoy floating in the distance, not far in the distance.
Maxwell looked up and saw Ridley's handiwork. "Nice job, Captain."
"No problem." He raced back to the Bridge as the others worked. No sooner did he arrive did Hana notice him.
"You did great down there, Ridley. I never knew you could work a boat."
Ridley retook his place at the helm, "Surprised?"
"Very."
Maxwell's voice over the radio, "Ridley, did you see that buoy in the distance?"
"Yeah."
"That's the halfway point! We just have to circle around the buoy and head back to the finish line."
"Hold tight!" Ridley spun the helm a short distance to port.
"We're coming too fast!" cried Diana, "Brace yourselves, Everyone!" She, Maxwell, and Marcella all grabbed the railing nearest to them while Hana grasped the back of the captain's chair.
"Hold tight! we're going hard to port!" shouted Ridley; he eased down the throttle to all head slow, grasped the helm in a vice grip and spun it all the way to to the right. The rudder responded accordingly. It soon turned hard to the right, the edge of the deck skimming alone the water's surface. As soon as they cleared the buoy; Ridley opened the throttle, threw the engines into all ahead full and gripped the helm to guide them forward.
"We got our heading!" Said Marcella. Her words were overheard by Ridley through his radio.
"Let's keep going." Said Diana. "We're almost there."
Maxwell glanced up and saw the sails billowing ahead of them, "The wind's picking up in our favor!"
"Back to our stations! Ridley, We need you to secure the jib!"
Ridley gestured for Hana to replace him at the helm. "Care to elaborate?"
"Just catch the wind coming from behind us!"
Ridley leapt onto the boat deck and hurried to redirect the front sail into the wind. he worked the sail until it caught the wind and the boat raced forward. "Yes!" he cried. He dashed back into the bridge just in time to see the success of his progress. With the wind in their sail, the yacht surged forward until it overtook Olivier's for the lead position.
Olivia had been lounging lazily until she saw the yacht through her tinted sunglasses. "What?!" she responded, nearly jolting out of her couch.
Olivier saw it too; his eyes blazed with fury. He furiously faced the yacht's crew. "Go faster! We're losing the lead!
The crew responded accordingly, but it was too late. Ridley and his 'crew' sailed over the finish line, with Ridley blasting the yacht's horn. "Victory is ours!" he proclaimed over the megaphone sitting on the console.
On the deck, Maxwell and Marcella kissed and hugged each other as well as Diana; Hana embraced Ridley in front and then from as he steered the yacht back to tit's place at the marina, stopped it and disembarked from the bridge, megaphone in hand.
"Yeah!" cried Marcella. Hugging Ridley as well.
Diana smiled at him, "You really pulled through for us, Knightley."
From the shore, King Constantine, Queen Regina and Princess Lisette happily applauded Ridley's victory.
Once they had moored the yacht, Ridley and the others disembarked onto the dock; as did the other suitors. Princess Lisette, Queen Regina and King Constantine waited to greet them. Lisette and her father stepped forward to meet Ridley.
"Congratulations, Lord Ridley." said the King proudly, "That was some impressive sailing out there."
Ridley beamed with pride, "I honestly can't take all the credit here." he waved vigorously towards Marcella, Maxwell, Diana and Hana to join him, which they did. "…Just most of it." he held the megaphone to the side of his lips. "Salute your king, crew!" They did so, smiling playfully.
The King laughed, This man has quite sense of humor, Lisette."
The Princess chuckled, "I know, Father."
"Lord Ridley. I commend you and your crew. Please enjoy the rest of the festivities."
"I wish we could stay and talk more," Added Lisette, "but the official races area bout to begin, and we need to join the queen and head to our places."
"Where do we go?" asked Ridley.
"I'll be with the rest of the royal family. You go be with the other suitors on the Nevrakis yacht."
"Olivier's yacht?" he balked.
"Lisette sighed, "I know you two don't get along..but the parties he and Olivia host are usually fun. You and Hana can keep each other company, if she's there.
A fanfare sounded in the distance.
"Go on; I believe that's your cue." said Ridley, "Wherever I end up, I'll be fine." He bowed and Lisette curtsied in response hurrying off to the royal booth.
Ridley began to wander around the dock; but before he could get far, Hana tapped him on his shoulder. Marcella, Maxwell and Diana had gone their own ways. "Hana!" he exclaimed, "Thank goodness, it's you." Suddenly, a thought came to mind, "You're not going to the Nevrakis' yacht, aren't you?"
Hana shook her head, "No, I won't….My parents wanted me to host my own viewing party." she gestured to the Nevrakis' yacht, "But unfortunately, I'm not as popular as they expected me to be. Especially not in comparison to the other girls. Olivia may not be the competitor this time around, but she still has her hooks in all the ladies and gentlemen around her, especially the other suitors."
"Surely, they can't be the only ones that were invited." Noted Ridley.
Hana nodded miserably, "My parents invited dozens of nobles, especially the local ones, but not one accepted, much less read their invites." she shook her head, "But, all the same, it would be the ultimate embarrassment to not even go to my own party!"
Ridley knew how she was feeling. He sometimes felt that way as well at, once again, plenty of social and political events. "Aw…sorry, Hana."
Hana shrugged, but did seem to lighten up. "It's not that bad. There's going to be lots of appetizers, champagne, drinks, and a lovely viewing deck…all just for me, I suppose."
Ridley's mind raced at once, "Where it is?" he asked.
"Just over there." she pointed over to a large pearl white yacht at the far edge of the dock that glimmered in the sunlight.
Ridley linked his arm through hers and started off. "Great. Let's go!"
Hana barely got her bearings before she responded, "Ridley, where were we going?"
"To your yacht; where else?"
Hana blinked rapidly, "Are you sure you want to spend time on my family's yacht?"
Ridley stopped and looked into her eyes, "Would you rather do the alternative? I know I wouldn't."
Hana knew what he meant, and was happy to come to his rescue as well as hers. "Follow me!"
She lead him to the yacht, which they boarded together. It was indeed one of the largest ones there. Standing four decks tall and seventeen inches wide, colored navy blue with red and white trimmings all over. The top deck being the bridge, the middle being the boat deck/open deck, the third deck had the dining room, lounge and bedrooms and the bottom deck was the engine room. The two boarded the open deck; near a cluster of white colored comfortable couches with silken pillows sat a spread of decadent chocolate covered strawberries and flutes of champagne.
"Welcome to my humble yacht." said Hana proudly.
Ridley shook his head in wonderment, "Wow…How loaded are you, Hana?"
Hana blinked, clearly caught off guard by the question. "I…uhhh." she caught herself, "I suppose I am from a noble family."
Ridley shrugged, "So is Bertrand, but he can't even afford a dinghy, let alone a luxury yacht like this; and you usually seem so modest."
Hana sat on the couch, kicked off her heels and crossed her bare legs. Ridley sat down next to her. "It's not my style to show off." She admitted, "but my parents wanted to display their wealth for the royal family. They think it's of the utmost importance that I impress everyone here, no matter how extravagant the display. "
Ridley smiled, "Well, you can consider me more than impressed." He gestured to a full bottle of champagne, sitting in a ice cooler next to the table. "Seriously, just one bottle of champagne is probably worth more than what I made in a whole week waiting tables in New York."
Hana patted his shoulder and gestured to the spread in front of them. "Well, what's mine is yours. Please, enjoy whatever you want."
As if on cue, a waiter approached them bearing a tray of chilled champagne flutes and glasses of mint water.
Ridley took one look before deciding, "A mint water, please."
"I'll have the same." said Hana.
Ridley took his glass, glanced around the deck and noticed, to his non-surprise, at least a dozen waiters standing at the ready. Beside them were countless bottles of champagne sitting in chilled buckets. "That's a lot of champagne, even for a party."
Hana stared into her glass and took a small sip. "Well, the ship is new and hasn't been named yet. Naming it would've been cause for celebration." She suddenly faced Ridley. "But since you're here, maybe you'll help me christen it."
Ridley jerked in his seat, coughed, and downed the rest of his water to steady himself. He was clearly caught off guard for Hana's proposition. "You want my help?"
Hana beamed brightly. "Yes! It'll be fun!"
Ridley rubbed his chin, "What do you even name a ship? The Flying Cordonian? The Heart of Gold?"
"Aphrodite?" Suggested Hana.
Ridley racked his brain for a good name. He liked Aphrodite; to him, it sounded great symbolically and literally; Ridley hadn't known what it meant to know falling in love, but in that moment, he began to realize that possibly he would know before the social season ended, whether or not he married Lisette. It also worked well for Hana, who, herself, thought she had found love, only for it to be nothing but a unbelievable fairy tale with no happily ever after. His decision was made. "Aphrodite?"
Hana smiled, "Aphrodite…I like it!"
Ridley noticed that he still had the megaphone from the Beaumont's yacht. He held it to his lips, "All aboard Aphrodite!" He announced.
Hana pushed his arm down, "Not so fast, Ridley. We need to officially christen her first!" She gave him the full bottle of champagne sitting in the chilled bowl next to the sofa."
"You sure you want me to do this?" he asked.
She shrugged, "It's your call."
"This is your boat."
"You're the only one who came to my party."
"I could've declined."
"But you didn't."
"You don't know that."
"Just do it already!" laughed Hana, "And you'd better hurry, cause I'm about to spray one of these over you, 'Captain!'"
Ridley shook his head, "Okay, okay, fine…." He paused. "Grab another bottle; we'll both do it together."
Hana smiled. "All right. We both named it, after all." Ridley handed her his bottle
"It's still your boat, after all. You deserve to own this moment more than me."
They walked to the edge of the bow; stood on the cushioned seating that ran alongside the edge of the boat deck, and smashed it together against the side of the bow. The foamy beverage quickly ran down the side.
Ridley raised the megaphone to his lips, "Lords and Ladies of Cordonia, this is your Captain speaking! The Aphrodite is officially in business!"
Hana pointed out to the water, "Just in time for the race too! The boats are taking their positions." The two looked off into the distance, where several boats gathered at the starting; their colored sails dotted the horizon. "Which boat do you think is going to win?"
Ridley glanced at them; one boat had a pirate flag, one had an american flag, and the other had regular sails. He turned back to Hana, "The Pirate flag boat." When he got no response from Hana; he turned to face her, and saw her looking shocked. "What? I think pirates are cool."
Hana shook her head and laughed, "Remind me to schedule a pirate themed party next time." she rested her head on the railing as King Constantine fired the starting pistol; the boat's respective sails inflates as they caught the wind. "They're off!"
The boats all sailed off into the horizon, seeming to almost disappear from view, "How far out do they go?" asked Ridley.
"Quite a ways." said Hana nonchantantly. "We won't see them again for another couple pf hours. It's a long race."
Ridley's gut did a triple backflip, "That long?" exclaimed Ridley. "But my race o nth water was so quick."
Hana shrugged, "Yours was ceremonial. I suppose it was done purposely. Speaking of water…do you want to take this yacht out for a ride?"
"Can I be honorary captain?" asked Ridley.
Hana shrugged, "Sure." she sent word down to the actual captain and crew. After the Crew loosened the moorings, the Captain fired up the engines and the Yacht slowly headed out to sea!
"Cast off!" exclaimed Ridley through his megaphone. Once out on the water, he glanced out at the sea. "What an amazing view!"
"Glad you like it!"
Ridley sent her a playful glance. "and because I'm on a boat…" He walked to the edge of the bow, spread an arm wide, held the megaphone to his lips, and did his Jack Dawson moment. "I'M THE KING OF THE WORLD! WHOO HOO WHOO!"
Hana laughed as he returned to her seat. "You know everyone on the sea can hear you, right?"
"So?" asked Ridley; plopping down beside her.
"She shrugged. "Just saying. And where did you get your 'Jack Dawson' moment?"
"From James Cameron's Titanic. Where else?"
Hana cocked her head, "What's Titanic?"
Ridley balked in surprise. "Seriously?! You don't know?"
She shrugged again, "Is it a movie?"
"You bet this boat it is! It's also a historical ship."
"I'll look it up later."
"You'd better! You'd be a fool if you didn't watch the movie, much less knew about the ship."
Hana leaned back on her seat and tucked her feet under her, "Ridley…thank you so much for coming to my party."
Ridley patted her shoulder gently, "Honestly, I should be thank YOU for this party. Again, this is so much better than the alternative."
Hana waved a dismissive hand, "Oh, please. You're the one that made it a party to begin with. Otherwise, It would've just been an afternoon of me crying into my champagne."
"Ridley laughed, "Such a terrible thought."
They turned and looked out over the open water; on the horizon, they could see the first of the returning sailboats approaching the marinas.
"The boats are back." said Ridley.
"Let's head back so we can see the winner." Hana told a crew member; the member told the captain, who steered the yacht back to the marina just in time for them to see the winner cross the finish line.
They glanced out at the boats and saw that the boat with the pirate flag had won. "Pirate sails won." observed Hana.
Ridley threw an arm around Hana, "Called it!"
They saw the royal family greet the winners and present each one with a medal and a wreath. Unbeknownst to Ridley, Hana leaned into his touch, nearly sitting on his lap altogether
"Look at those smiles." said Ridley.
Hana sighed, "Yeah…"
Ridley looked at her, "What's wrong?"
Hana leaned into him more and more, "They look so happy. It's just…My whole life, I've done nothing but lose."
Ridley shifted in his seat in surprise, which made Hana end up on his lap. "But you're amazing at everything!"
Hana faced him and shrugged sadly, "Nothing that really counts. After all, I lost my fiance', which then led to me losing my family's respect. Now they think I'm a complete failure."
Ridley was silent for a moment as he thought of what to say to cheer her up. "you know what, Hana? You don't need your parents' approval. Once you realize that other people's approval doesn't matter, then it's easy to see what the only person you need to please is yourself."
Hana stared at Ridley, processing his words. "There is wisdom in that…" she smiled, "But I wouldn't mind some praise from those close to me…like you, Ridley."
"Well, you're winning me over, so that counts for something." He gently stood, pushing her off him, and grabbed a champagne bottle from a chilled tub. "You know, Hana….we could have our own victory celebration right here and now."
Hana stood up and cocked her head in confusion, "For what?"
"Three reasons: First: you. Second: our friendship, that's always worth a mention. And lastly:" He shrugged, "Just because" He held up his bottle. "Sometimes you just gotta celebrate!" He shook the bottle and popped it open. The foamy liquid spraying all over them both.
Hana jump away from the spray, laughing as she did so. "That was a sneaky attack!"
Ridley smirked, "Your point?"
Hana answered the question by grabbing a bottle, shaking it and returning fire, "Gotcha!" she smiled.
She and Ridley spent the next half hour running across the deck, spraying each other with bottles until the last one ran dry.
Olivier
Ridley wasn't kidding when he said that Him spending time with Hana on her yacht was so much better than the Nervakis Yacht; at the same time that he and Hana were enjoying their one on one party on her own yacht; Olivier and Olivia were holding their own pow wow on their yacht, with all the other suitors and their chaperones on attendance.
"Thanks for inviting us on board, Olivier." Said Kieran, filling his plate with appetizers.
"Yes, This is quite a pow wow." said Gilderoy, helping himself to the salmon spread.
"You're all welcome." said the Russian Lord absently. as a waiter handed him a drink. He was scanning the area, looking for Ridley. He had wanted-no, he expected him to be present. His family's yacht was, by far, the largest in the marina. It's color pattern was a one of pearl white, blood red, and royal purple, with the Nevarkis family crest adorning either side. He was dressed in a red and purple summer shirt with white slacks and matching shoes, shades and a matching fedora hat.
The yacht traveled several miles out to sea to watch the races; Some of the suitors had bet money on the winner; none of them chose the boat with the pirate flag, except for Gilderoy.
"Hey, Red and Purple." said a cocky sounding voice near him; Olivier turned and saw that it was Diana. She was lounging on his favorite deck chair, sipping from a wine glass. "You forgot to get whiskey."
Olivier blinked, "And why would I obtain that kind of hard liquor, Lady Diana?"
She shrugged, "Because it's the best; not that you care." Olivier turned back to stare out at the sea. "What are you staring at? The boats are off already and I don't see…" she paused suddenly and joined him, staring out at the second largest yacht where Ridley and Hana where. "Is that Ridley and Hana?" then, instead of waiting for an answer, she said, "Sounds like they're having a better time than you would've offered them."
"What do you mean?" he asked.
Diana gestured over to the yacht. "What, you can't see?"
"Of course I can, your ladyship." he snapped.
Pierre and Penelope grabbed fruit cocktails from a server as their parents came up on deck, followed by Madeline and Kiara. They noticed Diana and walked over to her.
"Diana? This is a surprise." Said Madeline. "I figured you'd be with The Princess."
Diana shook her head, "She has other duties to attend to right now. I can hang where I please."
"What's going on?" Asked Penelope.
"Yes." added Pierre, "You look like a shark who lost his prey, Olivier."
"As a matter of fact, he did." Said Diana. She pointed out towards Hana's yacht, where she and Ridley were seated on the open deck. "He decided to abandon your ship in favor of another one. Hana's, if I'm not mistaken."
Olivier bristled. "Rumors."
"Truth." Said Gilderoy. "If I remember correctly, I heard you say earlier that you intended to ridicule Ridley in front of everyone on here, including us." He gestured to Kieran and Pierre.
Olivia had been lounging in her usual deck chair when she overhear Gilderoy's words. "Quit lying, Gilderoy."
"Please, Olivia." drawled Gilderoy. "He told you all this; I saw you two talk."
Madeline, Kiara and Penelope walked over to him, equally suspicious and interested. "Now that I think about it." Said Penelope, "I believe I heard him too."
"Me too." Said Madeline, nodding thoughtfully.
Olivier sank into a deck chair; not even trying to meet anyone's eyes. They were right, and he knew it. He was tired of Ridley seemingly all the thunder with Lisette; he was an outsider, plain and simple. He may have been charming, but had nothing else to his name; unlike the other suitors, but especially Olivier himself. He knew he may not have scared him off, but at least he could've taken him down a couple of pegs.
The others stared at him disapprovingly; his lack of an explanation confirming what they already surmised.
They each walked off the deck on by one, moving the party to the lower deck and leaving Olivier and Olivia alone on deck, where they remained until the race ended and the yacht returned to the marina. Gilderoy ended up winning every single bet he made on the pirate flag boat, which earned him money from everyone on the yacht, even the waiters.
By the time the race was over, Ridley and Hana were sprawled across the deck couch; Ridley on the couch, and hand sprawled across him; Hana's dress was covered, but not drenched, in champagne. Ridley, for his part, had plenty sprayed over his captain's jacket. one hand spread across hand her bare feet and the other in her sprawled out hair.
Hana lifted her head up and glanced out at the water. "We're nearly back to the marina…I can't believe it's already over!" She looked back at Ridley, I was really dreading today. But thanks to you, it was so fun and so much better than expected."
"I like seeing you happy. Plus, I had great fun too. Better than the-"
"Alternative?" finished Hana.
Ridley nodded, "Oh, yes."
Hana squeezed his hand tightly as the Aphrodite reached the marina and slipped back into her heels as Ridley stood and straightened his outfit and hat.
Ridley and Hana disembarked together and separated as Ridley needed to find the other suitors, who where all gathered on the dock. Meanwhile, Olivia, Kiara, Penelope and Madeline were disembarking from the Nevarkis yacht.
Next time you see me; We'll be at the real party!" Said Hana.
"The beach party, Right?" Said Ridley." Maxwell already told me how excited he is for the beach party."
Olivia, overhearing them, walked up to them both, "It's not just a party. It's an extravaganza!"
Kiara nodded, "The press will certainly be there."
"Plus, lots more time with the Princess." finished Penelope.
Ridley looked off to where the suitors were located and noticed Olivier standing with them. He noticed him and locked eyes; he stared at him angrily from his position. The others didn't look.
Olivia noticed her gazes. "Not that this is a friendly warning, but you should avoid Olivier for the day if you can. You truly set him off today."
"By what?"
"By being absent from his party on our yacht."
"So? It was my decision."
She shrugged, "Fair enough. Just warning you."
She motioned for the girls for follow her, even Hana. Ridley walked away as well, Avoiding the angry Russian as he did so.