Chapter Twelve
On the day of the last ball, excitement buzzed in the air. Mostly, I spent my day cleaning up after the banquet with the other servants. Then, in the middle of the day, Ariela came forth, announcing that tonight, all servants would be allowed to leave the manor and do as they wished once she and her daughters left, on condition that they be back by the time they returned home from the ball. I heard Amerisia question her about this, and the false Baroness just smiled her awful smile and said she was feeling benevolent, for her daughter was going to be made a princess tonight. That answer satisfied Amerisia. I wondered if I would be included in her benevolence, but of course, I was not.
Ariela sought me out right away, standing over me as I scrubbed a stain in the floor. "You will remain in the manor tonight, Cyn-Dyrela," she ordered. "I will be locking all doors and windows when everyone else has left the manor, and if I find anything out of place when I get back, you will truly regret the consequences."
"Where do you think I would go?" I asked her, my tone bitter. She just glared down at me as I continued to work.
"Don't be smart with me, Cyn-Dyrela. Just do as you're told."
"Don't have much of a choice, do I?" With that, she left me alone and I continued to work. Now that no one was bothering me, I had time to think. In my mind, I worked out all the things I wanted to say when I got to the ball. Eidyia and I hadn't had much of a chance to talk over our plan for tonight, so I hoped that the girls and their mother would leave early. Indeed, that was just how things played out. I was called to help Amerisia with her preparations at least two hours earlier than usually. She seemed a bit nervous tonight, but was desperately trying to disguise it with arrogance.
"I'm ready, Cyn-Dyrela. Fetch my corset!" That was an ordeal. I tugged and tugged at the lacings of the corset until a breathless Amerisia finally decided her figure was proper. Why anyone would wear such a contraption was still beyond me, but my step-sister seemed pleased at how she looked. Her dress tonight was the grandest gown I had ever seen. It looked like a dress that a princess would wear, and this was exactly what Amerisia intended. The ball gown was made of an expensive fabric dyed a rosy pink color. It had elegant gold trim and minimal lace. There was dark rose ribbon trim, and silk roses sewn on as well. In her hair was a hairpiece of silk roses that matched her dress and it had ribbons that hung down over her golden curls.
Her gems were equally grand. I set a bejeweled circlet on her forehead, studded with diamonds and a single brilliant pink stone. Her pendant was made of solid gold and contained several more diamonds. She wore an elegant gold ring on her finger, studded with the tiny pink stones. Even I had to admit that she looked like a beautiful princess when she was finished. Amerisia twirled around in front of the mirror, checking to make sure her makeup looked all right. It was perfect. She smoothed her hair, which laid perfectly in place.
Surely Brien would see right through her. Amerisia was pretty, but she wasn't the kind of woman I saw him marrying. I was a little worried, though, and almost jealous. Such a spiteful person did not deserve to be this beautiful. It wasn't fair that she should look so perfect. I felt rather plain as I stood beside her and watched her preen. Then I reminded myself that I was being foolish. It didn't matter how beautiful she was: I was still more intelligent and more honest. And those characteristics were worth far more than her beauty.
I watched her join her sister, who was also looking rather grand tonight. Cyala was wearing her blue green gown, and it had (as she had claimed) brought out the color in her eyes. Her aquamarines sparkled in the light, and she was smiling constantly. I wondered if her face hurt yet. She was convinced that tonight her beloved duke would propose to her, and thought it twenty times more romantic than anything that could happen to her sister, even in the prince should ask for Amerisia's hand. But I was beyond caring who she married. Tonight, I would finally have my freedom.
Every moment that I had to wait was one moment too long. My heart had begun to beat faster and faster as I thought of how near my salvation was. I was already thinking about the gown I had decided to wear tonight. It was my favorite, a dark green satin gown embroidered with tiny silver flowers. Everything was planned, and I just needed Ariela and her daughters to leave so I could get ready. The servants were dismissed, and soon it was only my step family and I left in the manor, besides Eidyia, who was up in the attic at this moment, setting things out for me.
Ariela warned me again before she left. She locked each and every window and door in the manor, and then gave me one last glare before she proceeded out to the carriage with Amerisia and Cyala. I watched them get in their carriage and drive away from the manor. As soon as they were out of sight I turned around and ran upstairs to clean up. I rushed to prepare as fast as I could. My eagerness to get to the ball was overwhelming, and it wasn't long before I was dashing up the stairs towards the attic. At last, I threw open the door, which Eidyia had unlocked.
I stopped, the breath catching in my throat. Laid out on a chair was the most glorious gown I had ever seen. It was golden: not buttery yellow, but as gold as the gold of the rings Amerisia had donned. I slowly approached it, and ran a hand over the skirt. The material was delicate and smooth, but the gold thread sparkled and shone as real gold would. It was soft as silk and flowed like a river when I picked it up. The gown itself was so simple, but very elegant. The sleeves were made of transparent fabric that was as soft as the dress itself. They draped low and I knew that when I spun around, they would twirl in circles around me. The very edge had a tiny line of gold edging around it. A swath of the transparent cloth draped around the neckline and went around to trail down the back.
"Lovely, isn't it?" came Eidyia's voice from behind a stack of trunks. "I fetched these for you, too." She held out what appeared to be veils, made of the same material as the sleeves and drapes. They, too, were edged with that fine line of gold thread. Also in her hand was a carved wooden box. I set aside the dress and took the veils and set them on the chair as well. Then I took the box from Eidyia and traced the top of the lid.
"It has my name on it!" I exclaimed. My governess nodded.
"This is all for you, Chryseis," she explained. "Your mother had this made for you not long after you were born. It was to be your present, for your first ball. I had it altered for you a few days ago. It was only fitting that you should wear this tonight, when you finally reclaim your mother's legacy." My eyes lit up, and I opened the box as Eidyia disappeared to fetch something else.
Inside, I saw a wealth of crystal. There was a circlet of crystal snowflakes, each of them delicate and unique. I also took out a matching belt. Lying in the bottom, wrapped in paper was a gold chain from which hung a single crystal snowflake, the most intricate and beautiful of them all. "It's so beautiful."
"One more thing for you, dear," Eidyia told me. She held out a pair of shoes that were seemingly made of crystal. There were tiny snowflakes all around the top, and tiny snowflakes were cut into the crystal all across the shoe. I took the shoes almost reverently.
"How can I wear anything so delicate and beautiful?" I asked her, gazing down at this work of art.
"They were specially made for you, dear. They will fit perfectly, I know. And they will not break easily." I couldn't stop the smile from spreading across my face as I imagined what it would be like to dance in these shoes, wearing the golden dress. As I helped Eidyia carry all the things down to the dressing room, she spoke of things that weren't even remotely related to our plan.
"Your mother named you after Chryseis, the Golden Star," she informed me. "That is why she had this golden gown made for you. And the day you were born was in the middle of the winter, when everything was cold. We lit so many fires in the manor to keep warm, and just before you were born, it began to snow. It was the prettiest snow I've ever seen in Llyr, and it fell upon the windowpane in the room where Pasiphae delivered. It was night, and whenever she looked out the window, she could see two stars: the Golden Star and the Silver Star. And so she named she named you after the star she saw shining outside her window."
"Why are you telling me all this now?" I asked. It wasn't a complaint, but I wondered why Eidyia had become so nostalgic. We were in the dressing room by the time she answered.
"We all reach turning points in our lives. For your mother, one of the largest turning points in her life was when she gave birth to you. And now you're at a turning point in your life. Remember who you are, Chryseis. You need to know who you are before you can tell the world who you are. And that is what you shall do tonight. The world will know who you are." She looked at me, and her eyes were sparkling with pride. "I've watched you grow all these years, and the woman you have become… I am proud of you, Chryseis."
"I will try to live up to your…"
"No." She cut me off and began to set out the things we would need. "Just do your best. And that is good enough. I have faith in you. And I expect that you might not only return to Llyr a baroness, but a princess as well."
"Eidyia!" My cheeks went bright red, and I felt incredibly embarrassed at her comment. I wasn't off chasing the prince like my despicable step-sister. I wasn't like them… And then I thought of Brien. Who would he marry? Would he truly be happy with anyone? I had been with him, and he had been happy. What if he asked me to marry him? My thoughts were jarred by Eidyia, who obviously was trying to change the subject.
"Anyway, do you have a plan for tonight?" she asked. I nodded.
"First, I intend to cement alliances in the nobility and speak with the Duke of Aviel. Then, I will go to the prince, and explain my situation. Once the prince knows, then he can advise me on how to approach the king with my claim."
"Perfect plan." My former governess smiled. "Now let's get you ready."
A short time later, I was dressed and ready. My gown did indeed twirl around me when I spun in a circle, which I did before Eidyia sat me down to fix the drapes and put the veils on. She also curled my long brown hair and left it down beneath the veils and circlet. When I was completely ready, I walked over to the full length mirror that hung on the wall. Looking into the mirror, I was amazed at what I saw.
I hardly even recognized myself. "This can't be me," I muttered.
"Why not, dear?" I just stared and stared at the person in the mirror. "You're beautiful, just like your mother was." I couldn't believe her, though. This woman in the mirror hardly resembled myself. This woman looked noble, refined, and graceful. I couldn't think of myself as being any of those things. Then I looked closer and saw traces of my mother in the mirror: her hair, her nose, her smile. I saw bits of my father: his hazel eyes, an expression that I recognized as being his when he studied something he wasn't quite sure of. Memories flooded back to me, and I understood Eidyia's nostalgia. I was my parent's child, their legacy. And it was all up to me now.
I backed away from the mirror and turned to Eidyia. "You've made all this possible," I began. She tried to deny it, but I just shook my head. "No. You've been there for me all my life. Thank you."
"You're welcome, Chryseis." Her words were quiet and sincere. "But now, I just want you to concentrate one what you have to do." With that, she ushered me to the door. She had the keys on the chain around her neck and used them to unlock the front door for me. "Have courage," she advised, hurriedly interjecting a few parting words as I went out. "Don't be tempted to talk to the prince too early. Be sure of your position before proceeding. Don't drop your guise in anyway until it is the proper time. Trust your instincts. And above all, remember that Amerisia must not marry the prince." Then the look on her face changed. She smiled a wide smile, looking directly at me. "But I don't think that will be the case. Why would he marry her when he could have you." I blushed, a little uncomfortable at her comments. "Be sensible," Eidyia said finally. "And good fortune, my child. Everything is up to you now."
"I won't let you down," I promised her. Then I hurried down the steps and took one last look at the house before running to the stables. When I looked on it again, it would be mine. Or at least that was the hope that I clung to as I rode away from the Llyr manor and into the forest where my carriage was waiting.
Once I got to the carriage, something seemed a little bit off. There was no footman waiting, only a single fairy coachman. So I climbed in unassisted and we set off for the palace. Inside, I took several deep breaths and ran over my plans in my head.
Time seemed to drag, and we had not yet reached the palace. I could have been certain a minute had passed. I counted off the seconds slowly. Sure enough, we had not reached the palace after a minute. There was something wrong! And what was more, I was going to be late! Embarrassed to my core, I sank down in the seat, cursing absentminded fairies.
It seemed like an eternity before the carriage arrived at the palace. With so much time to think, my brain had begun to point out all the flaws in my thinking. I was also nervous about being so late. That would hardly set a good example for me. When I got out, there was no one around. They must have all been inside, I thought grimly. Perhaps I had a chance of slipping in without anyone noticing.
I made my way quickly through the halls towards the ball room, moving as gracefully as I could. The guards in the corridor watched me as I went, their faces covered in expressions of wonder. I didn't know whether it was the clinking of the crystal jewelry that held their attention so or the shimmer of the gold dress. But at the moment, my only concern was reaching the ball room as soon as I could. At last I approached the tall doors, behind which was the staircase that led into the ballroom.
Two servants waited to open the doors for me. "Please don't open them too wide," I begged, not wanting to make a scene. In my mind, I assured myself that these balls were usually full of commotion anyway. Everyone would be talking and dancing, and the music would be playing and no one would notice a single person slipping in late. One of the servants bowed and opened a door for me. I slipped in and stood at the top of the staircase looking down on the scene below. What I saw was disastrous. As soon as I walked in, every head in the ballroom turned to me, and a sick feeling started to grow in the pit of my stomach.
Prince Brien was standing at the head of the crowd near the dais where the royal thrones were. He had obviously been addressing the people, and I wondered how badly I had interrupted him. People were beginning to whisper as I descended the staircase as fast as I could, resolved not to turn right back around and leave. I wasn't about to run away when I was this close to my freedom. The prince spoke again when I started heading down. "So, that being finished, let the dancing begin!"
I watched him make his way through the crowd. He was easy to spot: his tunic was white with gold embroidery over it. On his head was his crown, and with that he looked very regal. By the time I reached the bottom of the stairs, he was standing there in front of me. "Quite the entrance, Dyrelle Morrigan" he teased lightly. Behind him, I spotted a frustrated looking Amerisia closing in on him. But her hopes were in vain. "May I have this dance?" the prince asked me.
I nodded, and took the hand he held out to me. We walked over near the orchestra, who began to play a waltz. As I started to dance, I had the feeling that someone was watching me. Indeed, I managed to get a glimpse of the king, who was looking at me with a stern expression on his face. Brien must have known this, because he made an explanation for me. "Don't be alarmed if my father is watching you. He's really a kind person, even if he can be a bit severe sometimes." I nodded, accepting this. The king wasn't the only one who seemed to be watching, but I ignored them and concentrated on the dance. It wasn't until the dance ended that I spoke to him.
"Thank you for the honor of the first dance, your Highness," I said politely, curtsying.
"The pleasure was mine," he told me before bowing. "You look like the Golden Star descended from the heavens." I was utterly unused to flattery, and blushed a rather interesting shade of pink. Brien immediately began to apologize for making me uncomfortable and all I could do was shake my head.
"No, there's no need for apologies… Thank you, Your Highness," I finally managed. The orchestra began another song, and Brien made no move to leave.
"Although I haven't much hope after embarrassing you so, would you give me another dance, Dyrelle Morrigan?" I simply nodded and we danced again, much to the disappointment of the girls around us. Some oohed and ahhed, and others made noises that sounded very much like 'hmph!' but I didn't care. For a moment, there was just the melody of the orchestra and Brien, and I lightly stepped back and forth, following the music. When the dance ended, our hands parted. No sooner did this happen than the crowd of girls closed around the prince, all of them intent on dancing with him next.
I felt sorry for Prince Brien who was beginning to look rather overwhelmed. Then, the cacophony stopped. Brien's expression quickly returned to a neutral one as he searched for the reason behind this sudden change. The crowd quieted, and at last it parted, revealing a young woman with golden hair and a fine pink gown. Amerisia walked right up to the prince, with all the grace and dignity she could assume. Curtsying to him, she asked in her sweetest most cultured voice, "Your Highness, may I have this dance?" I was thinking wildly in my mind, say no, say no, please say no.
"As you wish, Dyrelle Amerisia," he replied, bowing. She took his arm and they began to dance to the music that was playing. I backed away, anger filling me. Amerisia always stole things away from me, but I wouldn't let her steal Prince Brien. She didn't deserve him; I couldn't let her have him. My anger threatened to overwhelm me for a moment, but then I remembered my purpose. Now would be the perfect time to discuss my plight with the aristocrats. I searched for the Count of Dagyn and his wife. They were standing on their own, in the company of a tall man I did not know. Cautiously, I approached them, hoping that I had not made them doubt my credibility at all.
"Welcome back to Calaris," the countess greeted. She turned to the tall man, who was dressed elegantly, the heraldry of his house clearly displayed. I already knew who he was by the time she introduced me. "This, your Grace, is the girl we had told you of." I curtsied to him as best I could.
"My name is Dyrelle Morrigan of Teatra," I introduced myself. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, your Grace." The duke nodded, bowing slightly to me.
"You are quite the person, Dyrelle Morrigan, to make such an entry," he said, but I wasn't sure if this was a compliment or not. However, his next statement cleared that up. "It is an honor to have a lady such as you in Alansia."
"It is an honor to be here," I replied simply. What I really wanted was to cease these formalities and ask my questions, but I tried to remember Eidyia's training. This was the game of aristocrats, to speak for hour and say nothing, then to speak for a moment and say everything. Fortunately, the duke must have been as impatient as I was. He introduced the topic a bit abruptly, but no one said anything.
"I understand you have come to Alansia with questions about distant kin in Llyr." I nodded. He looked around us, as if to make sure no one was listening. I nodded to answer his question.
"Very distant, but kin nonetheless, your Grace."
"Count Dagyn has said some interesting things when I spoke to him earlier tonight. You came to repair relations, did you not?"
"I did," I answered, wondering where this conversation was going. He was obviously interested, and from what I could read on his face he didn't dislike me. I was hopeful that this would turn in the direction I hoped it would. The duke drew back, closer to the wall and further away from the other people who were drifting about. I followed, as did the Count. The Countess disappeared, saying that there were others who might want to join this discussion as well. Hope was kindled in my heart. I had supporters!
The duke continued his questioning of me. "If you had the chance to stay here in Alansia, would you?" This part I needed no acting for.
"Of course. Alansia is a beautiful place. It feels almost like home, and I have only been here a few days. I think that I could spend the rest of my days in this place." That was the right answer, I decided, seeing the approving look on his face.
"Then hear me, Dyrelle Morrigan. You are free to stop me at any time, but please consider what I have to say. Ever since Dyrelle Ariela Chemise became the Baroness of Llyr, I've had problems with her. She does not deserve to rule the barony: not just because she is not a legitimate heir, but because she has proven herself to be irresponsible and harmful to the land itself. The only flaw is that the King can't take it from her because her claim is quite legal. However, the one thing that would stand in her way is if a Llyr happened to step forth and claim the barony again. "
"Are there any Llyrs left? I thought they were all dead?" I asked carefully, knowing that I had won already. When they knew the truth, I would have no opposition taking my place.
"You're right, the Llyrs are gone," the count cut in. "But you have Llyr blood?"
"A bit," I admitted, trying not to sound too hasty. Oh, I had the Llyr blood certainly enough, and my veins seemed to be afire with the strength of it right now. I was so close…
"If you can bring proof of your relation to the Barons of Llyr, then I will support your claim to that realm." His words were so sweet in my ears that I almost sang for joy. This is what I had hoped for more than anything. All I needed was to speak with Brien, and I would have it at last. I would save him from marrying Amerisia, and we could both be happy. My heart was pounding, and I had difficulty speaking again.
"I have proof enough for you, that I will show you as soon as I can. Thank you, your Grace." My voice was a little eager, even though I was trying to restrain myself. Soon, I would show him all the proof he would ever need.
"Will you swear to be wise in the governing of Llyr, if you are instated?" the Count asked me.
"I am prepared to do so," I told him. What I didn't tell him was that I had prepared for it for years. I had the desire to be Baroness, the knowledge and skills to become Baroness. I was ready, and here was my chance.
"Then I will vouch for you to the king, then," he answered. "But I may not have much sway in the matter. It could be that he will dismiss me in this."
"Would I be wise to approach one of the royal house to vouch for me as well?" I asked quickly, wondering if my plan would work.
"If you were able to, then it would only further your claim, Dyrelle Morrigan," the duke told me. I smiled at this, knowing what I must do next.
"Thank you," I said again. I knew I had said it before, but I had to say it again. "You are a wise and just man, Duke Aviel."
"But what if you are the prince's bride?" came another voice from behind me. It was the Countess of Dagyn, bringing a few of her companions from the first evening along with her. Some of those women had in turn brought their husbands with them. I turned to face them.
"The prince's bride?" I began. "My intentions at this ball are not to find a husband, but to discover the condition of my kin here in Llyr." My statement was practiced, and I delivered it in as noble a voice I could manage.
"You are a rare girl, Dyrelle Morrigan," one of the Barons remarked, "Not to seek the prince when he seems to be so friendly to you."
"He's friendly to almost everyone," I protested. I didn't like where this conversation was going.
"I've heard rumors," one of the Countesses admitted at last. "If the Duke is to replace Ariela with you, then these tales must be put to an end. Be honest. Is it true that you are the princess of Teatra, coming under disguise to woo the prince?" My eyes widened, and I shook my head.
"Of course not!" I denied. "I have told you before why I am here and who I am." I felt awful about lying to them now. Once the truth came out, they would be shocked indeed. Now I was forced to look at something I had almost forgotten. How would my deception be looked upon? It was necessary, to be certain, but what would people say? What would Brien think? I, too, wore my mask when I was with him. Would he forgive me? There was only one way to find out.
"Thank you for your support, noble lords and ladies of Alansia," I said, trying to wrap things up quickly. "In time, I will show you the evidence of my Llyr blood, through my mother's kin. And perhaps we can all benefit from this."
"May it be so," the duke concluded, and he seemed to be satisfied. I curtsied to them all, and left them to talk amongst themselves.
On the day of the last ball, excitement buzzed in the air. Mostly, I spent my day cleaning up after the banquet with the other servants. Then, in the middle of the day, Ariela came forth, announcing that tonight, all servants would be allowed to leave the manor and do as they wished once she and her daughters left, on condition that they be back by the time they returned home from the ball. I heard Amerisia question her about this, and the false Baroness just smiled her awful smile and said she was feeling benevolent, for her daughter was going to be made a princess tonight. That answer satisfied Amerisia. I wondered if I would be included in her benevolence, but of course, I was not.
Ariela sought me out right away, standing over me as I scrubbed a stain in the floor. "You will remain in the manor tonight, Cyn-Dyrela," she ordered. "I will be locking all doors and windows when everyone else has left the manor, and if I find anything out of place when I get back, you will truly regret the consequences."
"Where do you think I would go?" I asked her, my tone bitter. She just glared down at me as I continued to work.
"Don't be smart with me, Cyn-Dyrela. Just do as you're told."
"Don't have much of a choice, do I?" With that, she left me alone and I continued to work. Now that no one was bothering me, I had time to think. In my mind, I worked out all the things I wanted to say when I got to the ball. Eidyia and I hadn't had much of a chance to talk over our plan for tonight, so I hoped that the girls and their mother would leave early. Indeed, that was just how things played out. I was called to help Amerisia with her preparations at least two hours earlier than usually. She seemed a bit nervous tonight, but was desperately trying to disguise it with arrogance.
"I'm ready, Cyn-Dyrela. Fetch my corset!" That was an ordeal. I tugged and tugged at the lacings of the corset until a breathless Amerisia finally decided her figure was proper. Why anyone would wear such a contraption was still beyond me, but my step-sister seemed pleased at how she looked. Her dress tonight was the grandest gown I had ever seen. It looked like a dress that a princess would wear, and this was exactly what Amerisia intended. The ball gown was made of an expensive fabric dyed a rosy pink color. It had elegant gold trim and minimal lace. There was dark rose ribbon trim, and silk roses sewn on as well. In her hair was a hairpiece of silk roses that matched her dress and it had ribbons that hung down over her golden curls.
Her gems were equally grand. I set a bejeweled circlet on her forehead, studded with diamonds and a single brilliant pink stone. Her pendant was made of solid gold and contained several more diamonds. She wore an elegant gold ring on her finger, studded with the tiny pink stones. Even I had to admit that she looked like a beautiful princess when she was finished. Amerisia twirled around in front of the mirror, checking to make sure her makeup looked all right. It was perfect. She smoothed her hair, which laid perfectly in place.
Surely Brien would see right through her. Amerisia was pretty, but she wasn't the kind of woman I saw him marrying. I was a little worried, though, and almost jealous. Such a spiteful person did not deserve to be this beautiful. It wasn't fair that she should look so perfect. I felt rather plain as I stood beside her and watched her preen. Then I reminded myself that I was being foolish. It didn't matter how beautiful she was: I was still more intelligent and more honest. And those characteristics were worth far more than her beauty.
I watched her join her sister, who was also looking rather grand tonight. Cyala was wearing her blue green gown, and it had (as she had claimed) brought out the color in her eyes. Her aquamarines sparkled in the light, and she was smiling constantly. I wondered if her face hurt yet. She was convinced that tonight her beloved duke would propose to her, and thought it twenty times more romantic than anything that could happen to her sister, even in the prince should ask for Amerisia's hand. But I was beyond caring who she married. Tonight, I would finally have my freedom.
Every moment that I had to wait was one moment too long. My heart had begun to beat faster and faster as I thought of how near my salvation was. I was already thinking about the gown I had decided to wear tonight. It was my favorite, a dark green satin gown embroidered with tiny silver flowers. Everything was planned, and I just needed Ariela and her daughters to leave so I could get ready. The servants were dismissed, and soon it was only my step family and I left in the manor, besides Eidyia, who was up in the attic at this moment, setting things out for me.
Ariela warned me again before she left. She locked each and every window and door in the manor, and then gave me one last glare before she proceeded out to the carriage with Amerisia and Cyala. I watched them get in their carriage and drive away from the manor. As soon as they were out of sight I turned around and ran upstairs to clean up. I rushed to prepare as fast as I could. My eagerness to get to the ball was overwhelming, and it wasn't long before I was dashing up the stairs towards the attic. At last, I threw open the door, which Eidyia had unlocked.
I stopped, the breath catching in my throat. Laid out on a chair was the most glorious gown I had ever seen. It was golden: not buttery yellow, but as gold as the gold of the rings Amerisia had donned. I slowly approached it, and ran a hand over the skirt. The material was delicate and smooth, but the gold thread sparkled and shone as real gold would. It was soft as silk and flowed like a river when I picked it up. The gown itself was so simple, but very elegant. The sleeves were made of transparent fabric that was as soft as the dress itself. They draped low and I knew that when I spun around, they would twirl in circles around me. The very edge had a tiny line of gold edging around it. A swath of the transparent cloth draped around the neckline and went around to trail down the back.
"Lovely, isn't it?" came Eidyia's voice from behind a stack of trunks. "I fetched these for you, too." She held out what appeared to be veils, made of the same material as the sleeves and drapes. They, too, were edged with that fine line of gold thread. Also in her hand was a carved wooden box. I set aside the dress and took the veils and set them on the chair as well. Then I took the box from Eidyia and traced the top of the lid.
"It has my name on it!" I exclaimed. My governess nodded.
"This is all for you, Chryseis," she explained. "Your mother had this made for you not long after you were born. It was to be your present, for your first ball. I had it altered for you a few days ago. It was only fitting that you should wear this tonight, when you finally reclaim your mother's legacy." My eyes lit up, and I opened the box as Eidyia disappeared to fetch something else.
Inside, I saw a wealth of crystal. There was a circlet of crystal snowflakes, each of them delicate and unique. I also took out a matching belt. Lying in the bottom, wrapped in paper was a gold chain from which hung a single crystal snowflake, the most intricate and beautiful of them all. "It's so beautiful."
"One more thing for you, dear," Eidyia told me. She held out a pair of shoes that were seemingly made of crystal. There were tiny snowflakes all around the top, and tiny snowflakes were cut into the crystal all across the shoe. I took the shoes almost reverently.
"How can I wear anything so delicate and beautiful?" I asked her, gazing down at this work of art.
"They were specially made for you, dear. They will fit perfectly, I know. And they will not break easily." I couldn't stop the smile from spreading across my face as I imagined what it would be like to dance in these shoes, wearing the golden dress. As I helped Eidyia carry all the things down to the dressing room, she spoke of things that weren't even remotely related to our plan.
"Your mother named you after Chryseis, the Golden Star," she informed me. "That is why she had this golden gown made for you. And the day you were born was in the middle of the winter, when everything was cold. We lit so many fires in the manor to keep warm, and just before you were born, it began to snow. It was the prettiest snow I've ever seen in Llyr, and it fell upon the windowpane in the room where Pasiphae delivered. It was night, and whenever she looked out the window, she could see two stars: the Golden Star and the Silver Star. And so she named she named you after the star she saw shining outside her window."
"Why are you telling me all this now?" I asked. It wasn't a complaint, but I wondered why Eidyia had become so nostalgic. We were in the dressing room by the time she answered.
"We all reach turning points in our lives. For your mother, one of the largest turning points in her life was when she gave birth to you. And now you're at a turning point in your life. Remember who you are, Chryseis. You need to know who you are before you can tell the world who you are. And that is what you shall do tonight. The world will know who you are." She looked at me, and her eyes were sparkling with pride. "I've watched you grow all these years, and the woman you have become… I am proud of you, Chryseis."
"I will try to live up to your…"
"No." She cut me off and began to set out the things we would need. "Just do your best. And that is good enough. I have faith in you. And I expect that you might not only return to Llyr a baroness, but a princess as well."
"Eidyia!" My cheeks went bright red, and I felt incredibly embarrassed at her comment. I wasn't off chasing the prince like my despicable step-sister. I wasn't like them… And then I thought of Brien. Who would he marry? Would he truly be happy with anyone? I had been with him, and he had been happy. What if he asked me to marry him? My thoughts were jarred by Eidyia, who obviously was trying to change the subject.
"Anyway, do you have a plan for tonight?" she asked. I nodded.
"First, I intend to cement alliances in the nobility and speak with the Duke of Aviel. Then, I will go to the prince, and explain my situation. Once the prince knows, then he can advise me on how to approach the king with my claim."
"Perfect plan." My former governess smiled. "Now let's get you ready."
A short time later, I was dressed and ready. My gown did indeed twirl around me when I spun in a circle, which I did before Eidyia sat me down to fix the drapes and put the veils on. She also curled my long brown hair and left it down beneath the veils and circlet. When I was completely ready, I walked over to the full length mirror that hung on the wall. Looking into the mirror, I was amazed at what I saw.
I hardly even recognized myself. "This can't be me," I muttered.
"Why not, dear?" I just stared and stared at the person in the mirror. "You're beautiful, just like your mother was." I couldn't believe her, though. This woman in the mirror hardly resembled myself. This woman looked noble, refined, and graceful. I couldn't think of myself as being any of those things. Then I looked closer and saw traces of my mother in the mirror: her hair, her nose, her smile. I saw bits of my father: his hazel eyes, an expression that I recognized as being his when he studied something he wasn't quite sure of. Memories flooded back to me, and I understood Eidyia's nostalgia. I was my parent's child, their legacy. And it was all up to me now.
I backed away from the mirror and turned to Eidyia. "You've made all this possible," I began. She tried to deny it, but I just shook my head. "No. You've been there for me all my life. Thank you."
"You're welcome, Chryseis." Her words were quiet and sincere. "But now, I just want you to concentrate one what you have to do." With that, she ushered me to the door. She had the keys on the chain around her neck and used them to unlock the front door for me. "Have courage," she advised, hurriedly interjecting a few parting words as I went out. "Don't be tempted to talk to the prince too early. Be sure of your position before proceeding. Don't drop your guise in anyway until it is the proper time. Trust your instincts. And above all, remember that Amerisia must not marry the prince." Then the look on her face changed. She smiled a wide smile, looking directly at me. "But I don't think that will be the case. Why would he marry her when he could have you." I blushed, a little uncomfortable at her comments. "Be sensible," Eidyia said finally. "And good fortune, my child. Everything is up to you now."
"I won't let you down," I promised her. Then I hurried down the steps and took one last look at the house before running to the stables. When I looked on it again, it would be mine. Or at least that was the hope that I clung to as I rode away from the Llyr manor and into the forest where my carriage was waiting.
Once I got to the carriage, something seemed a little bit off. There was no footman waiting, only a single fairy coachman. So I climbed in unassisted and we set off for the palace. Inside, I took several deep breaths and ran over my plans in my head.
Time seemed to drag, and we had not yet reached the palace. I could have been certain a minute had passed. I counted off the seconds slowly. Sure enough, we had not reached the palace after a minute. There was something wrong! And what was more, I was going to be late! Embarrassed to my core, I sank down in the seat, cursing absentminded fairies.
It seemed like an eternity before the carriage arrived at the palace. With so much time to think, my brain had begun to point out all the flaws in my thinking. I was also nervous about being so late. That would hardly set a good example for me. When I got out, there was no one around. They must have all been inside, I thought grimly. Perhaps I had a chance of slipping in without anyone noticing.
I made my way quickly through the halls towards the ball room, moving as gracefully as I could. The guards in the corridor watched me as I went, their faces covered in expressions of wonder. I didn't know whether it was the clinking of the crystal jewelry that held their attention so or the shimmer of the gold dress. But at the moment, my only concern was reaching the ball room as soon as I could. At last I approached the tall doors, behind which was the staircase that led into the ballroom.
Two servants waited to open the doors for me. "Please don't open them too wide," I begged, not wanting to make a scene. In my mind, I assured myself that these balls were usually full of commotion anyway. Everyone would be talking and dancing, and the music would be playing and no one would notice a single person slipping in late. One of the servants bowed and opened a door for me. I slipped in and stood at the top of the staircase looking down on the scene below. What I saw was disastrous. As soon as I walked in, every head in the ballroom turned to me, and a sick feeling started to grow in the pit of my stomach.
Prince Brien was standing at the head of the crowd near the dais where the royal thrones were. He had obviously been addressing the people, and I wondered how badly I had interrupted him. People were beginning to whisper as I descended the staircase as fast as I could, resolved not to turn right back around and leave. I wasn't about to run away when I was this close to my freedom. The prince spoke again when I started heading down. "So, that being finished, let the dancing begin!"
I watched him make his way through the crowd. He was easy to spot: his tunic was white with gold embroidery over it. On his head was his crown, and with that he looked very regal. By the time I reached the bottom of the stairs, he was standing there in front of me. "Quite the entrance, Dyrelle Morrigan" he teased lightly. Behind him, I spotted a frustrated looking Amerisia closing in on him. But her hopes were in vain. "May I have this dance?" the prince asked me.
I nodded, and took the hand he held out to me. We walked over near the orchestra, who began to play a waltz. As I started to dance, I had the feeling that someone was watching me. Indeed, I managed to get a glimpse of the king, who was looking at me with a stern expression on his face. Brien must have known this, because he made an explanation for me. "Don't be alarmed if my father is watching you. He's really a kind person, even if he can be a bit severe sometimes." I nodded, accepting this. The king wasn't the only one who seemed to be watching, but I ignored them and concentrated on the dance. It wasn't until the dance ended that I spoke to him.
"Thank you for the honor of the first dance, your Highness," I said politely, curtsying.
"The pleasure was mine," he told me before bowing. "You look like the Golden Star descended from the heavens." I was utterly unused to flattery, and blushed a rather interesting shade of pink. Brien immediately began to apologize for making me uncomfortable and all I could do was shake my head.
"No, there's no need for apologies… Thank you, Your Highness," I finally managed. The orchestra began another song, and Brien made no move to leave.
"Although I haven't much hope after embarrassing you so, would you give me another dance, Dyrelle Morrigan?" I simply nodded and we danced again, much to the disappointment of the girls around us. Some oohed and ahhed, and others made noises that sounded very much like 'hmph!' but I didn't care. For a moment, there was just the melody of the orchestra and Brien, and I lightly stepped back and forth, following the music. When the dance ended, our hands parted. No sooner did this happen than the crowd of girls closed around the prince, all of them intent on dancing with him next.
I felt sorry for Prince Brien who was beginning to look rather overwhelmed. Then, the cacophony stopped. Brien's expression quickly returned to a neutral one as he searched for the reason behind this sudden change. The crowd quieted, and at last it parted, revealing a young woman with golden hair and a fine pink gown. Amerisia walked right up to the prince, with all the grace and dignity she could assume. Curtsying to him, she asked in her sweetest most cultured voice, "Your Highness, may I have this dance?" I was thinking wildly in my mind, say no, say no, please say no.
"As you wish, Dyrelle Amerisia," he replied, bowing. She took his arm and they began to dance to the music that was playing. I backed away, anger filling me. Amerisia always stole things away from me, but I wouldn't let her steal Prince Brien. She didn't deserve him; I couldn't let her have him. My anger threatened to overwhelm me for a moment, but then I remembered my purpose. Now would be the perfect time to discuss my plight with the aristocrats. I searched for the Count of Dagyn and his wife. They were standing on their own, in the company of a tall man I did not know. Cautiously, I approached them, hoping that I had not made them doubt my credibility at all.
"Welcome back to Calaris," the countess greeted. She turned to the tall man, who was dressed elegantly, the heraldry of his house clearly displayed. I already knew who he was by the time she introduced me. "This, your Grace, is the girl we had told you of." I curtsied to him as best I could.
"My name is Dyrelle Morrigan of Teatra," I introduced myself. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, your Grace." The duke nodded, bowing slightly to me.
"You are quite the person, Dyrelle Morrigan, to make such an entry," he said, but I wasn't sure if this was a compliment or not. However, his next statement cleared that up. "It is an honor to have a lady such as you in Alansia."
"It is an honor to be here," I replied simply. What I really wanted was to cease these formalities and ask my questions, but I tried to remember Eidyia's training. This was the game of aristocrats, to speak for hour and say nothing, then to speak for a moment and say everything. Fortunately, the duke must have been as impatient as I was. He introduced the topic a bit abruptly, but no one said anything.
"I understand you have come to Alansia with questions about distant kin in Llyr." I nodded. He looked around us, as if to make sure no one was listening. I nodded to answer his question.
"Very distant, but kin nonetheless, your Grace."
"Count Dagyn has said some interesting things when I spoke to him earlier tonight. You came to repair relations, did you not?"
"I did," I answered, wondering where this conversation was going. He was obviously interested, and from what I could read on his face he didn't dislike me. I was hopeful that this would turn in the direction I hoped it would. The duke drew back, closer to the wall and further away from the other people who were drifting about. I followed, as did the Count. The Countess disappeared, saying that there were others who might want to join this discussion as well. Hope was kindled in my heart. I had supporters!
The duke continued his questioning of me. "If you had the chance to stay here in Alansia, would you?" This part I needed no acting for.
"Of course. Alansia is a beautiful place. It feels almost like home, and I have only been here a few days. I think that I could spend the rest of my days in this place." That was the right answer, I decided, seeing the approving look on his face.
"Then hear me, Dyrelle Morrigan. You are free to stop me at any time, but please consider what I have to say. Ever since Dyrelle Ariela Chemise became the Baroness of Llyr, I've had problems with her. She does not deserve to rule the barony: not just because she is not a legitimate heir, but because she has proven herself to be irresponsible and harmful to the land itself. The only flaw is that the King can't take it from her because her claim is quite legal. However, the one thing that would stand in her way is if a Llyr happened to step forth and claim the barony again. "
"Are there any Llyrs left? I thought they were all dead?" I asked carefully, knowing that I had won already. When they knew the truth, I would have no opposition taking my place.
"You're right, the Llyrs are gone," the count cut in. "But you have Llyr blood?"
"A bit," I admitted, trying not to sound too hasty. Oh, I had the Llyr blood certainly enough, and my veins seemed to be afire with the strength of it right now. I was so close…
"If you can bring proof of your relation to the Barons of Llyr, then I will support your claim to that realm." His words were so sweet in my ears that I almost sang for joy. This is what I had hoped for more than anything. All I needed was to speak with Brien, and I would have it at last. I would save him from marrying Amerisia, and we could both be happy. My heart was pounding, and I had difficulty speaking again.
"I have proof enough for you, that I will show you as soon as I can. Thank you, your Grace." My voice was a little eager, even though I was trying to restrain myself. Soon, I would show him all the proof he would ever need.
"Will you swear to be wise in the governing of Llyr, if you are instated?" the Count asked me.
"I am prepared to do so," I told him. What I didn't tell him was that I had prepared for it for years. I had the desire to be Baroness, the knowledge and skills to become Baroness. I was ready, and here was my chance.
"Then I will vouch for you to the king, then," he answered. "But I may not have much sway in the matter. It could be that he will dismiss me in this."
"Would I be wise to approach one of the royal house to vouch for me as well?" I asked quickly, wondering if my plan would work.
"If you were able to, then it would only further your claim, Dyrelle Morrigan," the duke told me. I smiled at this, knowing what I must do next.
"Thank you," I said again. I knew I had said it before, but I had to say it again. "You are a wise and just man, Duke Aviel."
"But what if you are the prince's bride?" came another voice from behind me. It was the Countess of Dagyn, bringing a few of her companions from the first evening along with her. Some of those women had in turn brought their husbands with them. I turned to face them.
"The prince's bride?" I began. "My intentions at this ball are not to find a husband, but to discover the condition of my kin here in Llyr." My statement was practiced, and I delivered it in as noble a voice I could manage.
"You are a rare girl, Dyrelle Morrigan," one of the Barons remarked, "Not to seek the prince when he seems to be so friendly to you."
"He's friendly to almost everyone," I protested. I didn't like where this conversation was going.
"I've heard rumors," one of the Countesses admitted at last. "If the Duke is to replace Ariela with you, then these tales must be put to an end. Be honest. Is it true that you are the princess of Teatra, coming under disguise to woo the prince?" My eyes widened, and I shook my head.
"Of course not!" I denied. "I have told you before why I am here and who I am." I felt awful about lying to them now. Once the truth came out, they would be shocked indeed. Now I was forced to look at something I had almost forgotten. How would my deception be looked upon? It was necessary, to be certain, but what would people say? What would Brien think? I, too, wore my mask when I was with him. Would he forgive me? There was only one way to find out.
"Thank you for your support, noble lords and ladies of Alansia," I said, trying to wrap things up quickly. "In time, I will show you the evidence of my Llyr blood, through my mother's kin. And perhaps we can all benefit from this."
"May it be so," the duke concluded, and he seemed to be satisfied. I curtsied to them all, and left them to talk amongst themselves.
