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dears!
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A Whole New World
Chapter Three: A Mysterious Conversation
Alanna sat at her desk, chewing her quill pen, deep in thought. She was wondering what exactly she would write to her friend and fellow mage, Numair Salmalin, about the young Copper Islander girl's talent. Alanna wasn't even sure that Callie possessed an elemental Gift, but judging by Alianne's report, Callie had some connection with water.
Yes, Alanna's daughter had come to Alanna a week ago, winded, and gasped out that Callie touched the water and her fingers turned a deep sea green. Alanna had tested Callie soon after Alianne's announcement, persuading her to simply light a fire. But the girl had been flustered and had only managed a puff of blue green smoke.
Sighing in frustration, Alanna pushed her chair away from her desk, stood, and began walking around the study. Perhaps she was making a big deal out of nothing…and perhaps not. Callie certainly felt differently from other Gifted people, and she was sure Numair would feel the same.
Shouts roused Alanna from her thoughts and she walked quickly to the window. She smiled at the scene that was taking place on the stone balcony a few floors down: Callie was backing away slowly from Alanna's son, Thom, with a water bucket concealed behind her back. Thom was soaking wet, and Callie looked as though she was doing some very fast-talking. In an attempt to save herself, she pointed wildly at Alianne, who was perched on the wall, laughing herself silly. Thom shook his head, spraying Callie's dry sky blue blouse and tan breeches with drops of water, and took off after her. Callie flung the empty bucket aside and ran for her life. She was giving Thom a very good run, but he was faster and soon she was in his arms on the ground, and he was tickling her mercilessly.
Alanna began giggling and was soon joined by George's hearty laugh. "Ah, young love," he sighed, putting his arms around the Lioness's waist.
Alanna spun to face him in alarm. "Young what?!"
"Alanna…he isn't five anymore," George said gently, his eyes sparkling.
She sighed and looked out the window again. Now Alianne was trying to save her friend by prying her brother's arm off. Thom turned and began tickling her and Callie got up quickly.
"You really think so? But Callie's so young! Only...what? Seventeen?"
George chuckled. "Just don't be surprised, love."
Alanna's shoulder's drooped in defeat. "I suppose you're right. Again."
George squeezed her gently and looked out the window himself. Thom's attention was on Callie again, and they were circling around a large wooden table. After moments of chasing, Thom sat down and faced the wall. The girls couldn't see his devious smile.
"Look! The little devil's makin' them think they've won!" George cried, laughter choking him.
"Oh, Alianne's smart…you see, she won't fall for something stupid like that," Alanna said confidently. But, contrary to her thoughts, both Callie and Alianne were approaching Thom warily. "No-she wouldn't! Would she?" Alanna cried, pressing her hands on the cold window, her breath fogging it up.
Sure enough, both girls were stealthily approaching, and Callie smiled triumphantly. Her mouth formed the words "I guess we won then!"
Thom grinned and turned, pulling her down and tickling her again. Finally, she lifted her arms up in defeat and he stopped, still grinning, and pulled her to her feet.
Alanna smiled and turned away from the window. "It's so nice having Thom home. It's so nice to be home, although I daresay I'll be getting some type of bird from Jon telling me I need to go to Corus any day now."
"Well, we shan't think about that 'til it comes," George said firmly. "Were you goin' to write a letter?" He asked curiously, taking in the open inkbottle, blank paper, and chewed quill on the desk.
"Yes," Alanna sighed. "But I didn't get very far, as you can tell," she said wryly.
"To Numair?" George asked, looking at her piercingly.
"Yes, to see if he could tell if Callie's got elemental magic or not. I think she does, but I don't know for sure."
"Well, you should at least try. If he can't come here than we can bring her to court-"
George was cut off by a tapping noise at the window. A great eagle was perched on the sill. George rushed to let it in and it flew to the arm of the chair next to Alanna. It stuck out its foot, where a letter sealed with the royal crest was tied, impatiently.
"I knew it," Alanna said with grim triumph. She untied the letter and read it quickly while George filled a cup of water for the bird. "Yes, Jon wants me in Corus as soon as possible, and he wants to meet the 'young Copper Islander' apparently," Alanna said, still looking at the letter.
George put on a smile and said, "Well, looks like we're goin' on a family trip!"
Alanna rolled her eyes. "I suppose so."
"Love, it'll be okay…you know Alianne'll be thrilled, she hasn't seen Alan since we took her to court. That was, what? A bit over a year?" George said with encouragement.
"Yes, you're right," Alanna said, looking back out the window. "And Callie needs to be introduced to the court anyway. We can also take her to Numair. Yes, this will be a good thing, I think."
~*~*~*~*
"To court?" Callie squeaked.
"Yes, to court," Alanna said firmly. "King Jonathan requested you came specifically."
"So there's no use saying that I can take care of the manor until you get back?" Callie asked miserably, sitting on the nearest chair.
"No, I'm afraid not, lass," George said kindly, taking her hand. "But we're all going! And don't forget, Tortall is different. All of my best friends live at court, and they'll be delighted to meet you."
Callie tried another tactic. "But I don't know how to curtsy or dance or eat properly! That would take months to teach me, right?" She asked anxiously.
"She does have a point," Alanna said grimly, looking at George.
"Not with four teachers," Thom said, stepping forward. "We could start now."
"Good thinking, lad," George said, grinning at his son. "C'mon Callie, stand up-oh, don't you think she should be wearin' a skirt?"
"Yes, I should be, and there's no time for that, so," Callie said hastily, standing.
Thom caught her by the arm. "Oh no you don't, Callie."
"We'll make a lady of you yet," Alianne grinned, passing Callie to get to her mother.
"Great Mother, help me!"
~*~*~*~*
Three days later, Callie felt as though her head had been stuffed. She knew how to eat, how too greet a prince versus a king, how to carry on a very polite conversation, all the different titles for nobility, and more. Callie was running all the "useless knowledge" (in her opinion) through her head as she nervously played with a ringlet in the carriage. They were in the city of Corus, and while Alianne squealed every time she saw something she recognized, Callie was feeling less excited and sicker.
It wasn't because of the bumpy ride either, mind you.
Alanna, George, and Thom were riding outside the carriage, and had been since the beginning of their journey the day before. They had decided to split it up in order to ride at a more leisurely pace. But no matter how slow Callie had willed the carriage to go, they were climbing up the large hill that would take them to the palace.
"Ooh, Callie, come look! The palace is gorgeous!" Alianne cried gleefully.
"No, thanks, but I'll see it later," Callie moaned, clutching her stomach.
"Are you all right? Do you need to see a healer? Because I can just ask Ma- "
"No don't!" Callie exclaimed, cutting the sixteen-year-old off.
Alianne grinned wickedly. "I thought you would see it my way."
Callie stuck her tongue out at Alianne who grinned at her impishly. Callie recalled with a wince the events that had taken place the night before- Alanna had finally lost her temper with the girl and yelled at her for thinking that she was going to meet her death by being introduced to the court.
The carriage halted and Thom opened the door formally, bowing. "My Lady Callidora," he teased, holding his hand out.
Callie took a shaky breath and attempted to smile back. She placed her hand in his callused palm and stepped out, nearly tripping on her blue wool shift. A hostler came out of the stables to greet them. "Bless me, it's George Cooper!" he smiled.
George dismounted and shook the man's hand. "Stefan, good to see you," he grinned.
"An' ye, My Lord Baron," Stefan said, a hint of amusement in his voice.
"Who's that?" Callie whispered to Thom, who still held her hand.
"An old friend of Da's, who used to be in the Court of the Rogue with him," Thom whispered back.
"Thom! Aren't you forgetting someone?!" And indignant voice called from the carriage.
"Sorry sister dear, but I've got my hands full," Thom said, holding up his and Callie's intertwined hands.
Alianne scowled, but allowed a royal serving man to help her down instead.
"And look 'ere, it's Sir Thom!" Stefan said, patting Thom's mount. Fireshield, who was actually a chestnut, looked red in the sunlight. "And who's this lady?" he asked, bowing to Callie.
"Callidora Hennet, Stefan," George said, putting an arm on Callie's shoulder fondly. "She's bein' introduced into court."
"Ah," Stefan said, nodding. "Well, I daresay ye know where ye're goin'. But I'll have a man escort miladys and Sir Thom," he said, bowing to Callie and Alianne.
The man who helped Alianne from the carriage beckoned, and the whole party, except Stefan, trooped up the hill to the palace. Callie got her first real look at it and gasped. It really was gorgeous, with turrets and towers shooting up everywhere. They were led into a grand entrance hall, which was so big it made Callie's eyes hurt, and were greeted by a smiling man and woman, both dressed informally. The man was very handsome with dark hair, shining blue eyes, and a tall build. The woman was dressed plainly, but she looked like royalty in the simple blouse and breeches. She had black curly hair, pearly white skin, and large hazel eyes. She hugged Alanna and George warmly, as did the man.
"Surely you remember my son, Thom, and daughter, Alianne?" George asked formally.
"Of course," the woman said, embracing Alianne. Thom dropped Callie's hand (which she had forgotten about) and kissed the woman's hand and bowed to the man.
"And this," Alanna said, gently pushing Callie forward, "is Callidora Hennet. Callie, this is King Jonathan and Queen Thayet of Tortall."
Callie's jaw dropped and her eyes went as wide as saucers. Thayet-the queen!- smiled warmly and shook her hand. Callie was amazed that her hand felt callused-the sign of hard work. She quickly shut her mouth and curtsied to the queen, her mind whirling, and then to the king.
"Welcome, Callidora," King Jonathan said, his voice deep and very pleasant. "I hope you enjoy it here in Tortall."
"Oh, yes, very much so!" Callie exclaimed, forgetting herself. She swallowed and dropped another curtsy quickly.
"Good, good. Now, Alanna, George, come with me now. You can check into your rooms later," the king said, steering the Lioness and her husband out of the great hall.
"I'll come with you to your rooms, then," Queen Thayet said cheerfully, following the serving man who was leading them to their rooms. "its not as if what my lord is talking about is anything new to me. Alianne, I just cannot get over how much you've grown!"
Callie stared at the floor, determinedly placing one foot in front of the other, hearing Alianne and Thayet chatting in the background. The famed king and queen were-were normal, everyday people! That concept was baffling to Callie-and she knew it would take getting used to.
"Are you okay?" A voice asked in her ear.
Callie jumped and stared up into Thom's hazel eyes. "Yeah," she replied, shaking her head. "I'm just really mixed up here."
He smiled and took her hand. "Don't worry, you'll fit in quicker than Tortallan natives."
Callie's heartbeat quickened. She was acutely aware of how close their bodies were, and how good he smelled. She found herself actually wishing for a split second that he did like her romantically, but she gave herself a mental slap. That was so stupid-Alianne had said that Thom had no interest in her in that way, and Callie was happy about that. Really, she was.
But then, why did she feel so unhappy?
Callie realized that the queen had said something to her. She blushed. "I'm sorry, Highness, I didn't catch that."
Thayet smiled. "I simply asked if you were nervous about tonight?"
Callie swallowed. "Oh-oh no, Majesty, not at all."
Alianne snorted and Callie glared at her. "Well that's good, you shouldn't be," Thayet said with reassurance. Her hazel eyes flicked to Thom's hand, which was holding Callie's tightly as he smiled at her, and Thayet's eyes lit and she turned to Alianne, who looked where Thayet was looking.
Alianne sighed. "It's a lot more complicated than it looks," she muttered to the queen as they turned down a corridor.
"Really?" the queen inquired.
"Yes-it's a long story, and, begging your Highness' pardon, but may I tell it later?" Alianne pleaded.
"Of course," Thayet smiled. "And I think we are at your rooms-yes, we are," she smiled as the serving man opened a door. Thayet stepped back and allowed her guests to pass through the door before her, noticing that Callidora dropped Thom's hand in the process.
It was the most beautiful room Callie had ever seen-counting the one at Pirate's Swoop. It was filled with chairs and sofas and books, all done in light pink and gold. Straight in front of them was a huge bay window, with a view of the palace lawns. There were three doors leading off of the room.
"Callidora, this is your room," Thayet said hospitably, gesturing to a door on her right, "Alianne, that one next to Callidora's is yours, and Sir Thom, this is your room," she pointed to the only door on the left side of the room. "I do hope you find them comfortable. Excuse me, I will leave and let you settle in."
Alianne and Callie curtsied and Thom bowed deeply. Thayet nodded her head and closed the door after her.
"I told you she wasn't your average queen," Thom said with a grin, sitting heavily down on a plump chair.
Callie nodded fervently and sat in the sofa opposite him, and Alianne took a seat on Callie's left. There soon was a knock, and a parade of servants came in, bringing the trio's belongings, followed up by a very distinguished man, announcing that they had precisely three hours to change into their dinner attire.
Alianne exhaled loudly when he left. "Mithros, they think that all nobles need three hours to change! But a bath does sound nice right now…" she said thoughtfully, rising and gliding across the room to her door.
Thom rolled his eyes and grinned at Callie. "So, Cal, want to go practice fencing?"
Callie raised her eyebrows. "Cal, is it?"
"Sure, if you don't mind."
Callie shook her head and grinned. "Alright, but only for a bit. I do need some time to change, you know."
"I'm sure that you would look delightful even if you wore a keg, milady Callie," Thom said, mock-bowing and offering his arm.
"Wait a moment, let me change out of this dratted dress," Callie said. She rushed into her room, where three maids were busily putting her cloths away and gossiping loudly. They stopped chattering immediately upon Callie's entrance, and all curtsied respectfully.
"Oh-don't let me disturb you," Callie said, her face tinged red. "I-I just need some breeches and a blouse…" she looked around at all the cases that held her clothes.
"Disturb us, milady?" One maid inquired, her eyes wide.
One was already digging through Callie's things, while the other had a feather duster that was posed in midair, her eyes wide with shock.
"Yes…well, I'll-erm, be leaving now," Callie said hurriedly, shutting herself in what she hope was a privy. To her immense relief it was, and she changed into the much lighter clothes. She managed to do so without breaking anything and only cursing a few times. Callie had time to throw her hair into a quick ponytail before rushing into the common room, where Thom was practicing lunges and blows against a person only he could see. Callie had only begun fencing with the young knight a week ago, and he was quite good. Better than Alianne, that is, of course, he was a trained knight-and Callie was always looking for a challenge, even though she could do nothing but block when up against Thom.
Callie cleared her throat and he spun, his cheeks reddening before he grinned to cover it up. Callie had to restrain from laughing. He was embarrassed!
"Alianne, Callie and me are going to fence, all right?" Thom called through her door.
"All right!" Came the muffled yell.
The two set off through the winding halls that made up the castle. "I'm glad you know where we're going," Callie said, breaking the silence and shivering slightly.
"Actually, my dear, I haven't the slightest clue as to where we are," Thom said cheerfully.
"What?!" Callie cried, stopping dead and facing him.
"I think we're actually somewhere near the library…" Thom said, turning right. Callie ran to catch up with him, sighing and looking at a particularly interesting painting portraying a wolf-hunt, when wham! She hit something solid and fell onto her rear end.
"Ouch! What the-"
Callie felt a hand sneak around her mouth and she was pulled into the shadows. The girl struggled wildly until Thom came into her line of vision. He was white and more serious-looking than she had ever seen. He pressed a finger to his lips and removed his hand from her mouth. Keeping to the shadows, he crept along a wall and went down a side passage. Callie followed, wondering what was going on. The passage they were in had holes in the side of the wall, where angry, hushed voices were leaking through:
"-know how bad this could be if you're found!" A male voice cried. Thom looked slowly through a hole and Callie followed his example, looking in one close to her. The scene revealed a pacing man whose face were hidden by shadows and a comfortable chair that was seated in front of a roaring fire. It was someone's bed chamber. Feet were the only thing that led Callie to believe that the chair was occupied-highly polished black boots, with a peculiar green fringe on the bottom.
A deep throaty chuckle came from the chair. "I have done this since I was a youngling. I know what I'm doing, and I won't be caught, I assure you."
The man who was pacing stopped. "I suppose you are right. But what about her?"
"She won't have clue, I swear by Mithros." The man in the chair said.
The pacing man sighed. "All the same, be careful, for the gods' sakes."
"She doesn't know her power yet," the man in the chair said suddenly, changing the subject. "She is only seventeen. Still easy to bend. Perhaps I can persuade her-"
"No!" the pacing man sounded quite near hysterics. "You are only here to see her and then leave!"
The man in the chair sighed. "Very well."
"Good," the pacing man sounded a great deal more relaxed. "How about a shot of brandy, eh?"
~*~*~*~*
Callie and Thom burst back into their common room a bit later. They shut the door quickly behind them and Callie slumped on a couch, Thom taking a seat next to her.
"Thom?" Callie panted as soon as she had gotten her breath back.
"I know. It-it was wrong to have done that…" he said, looking at her.
"Actually," Callie said, sitting up, "that thought hadn't even passed through my head. I was wondering if you knew who they could have been talking about."
Thom grinned. "I should have known. And no, I don't have any idea who they could have been talking about."
Callie shrugged, determined to not let it bother her. But she kept wondering if they could have been talking about her. She blushed at her selfishness. That was stupid. The girl shook her head and got to her feet.
"Callie? Is that you?" Alianne called, stepping into the common room. She was wearing a brightly colored kimono and her hair was toweled up. "I didn't think you would ever get back-what have you been doing?" Alianne asked with puzzlement, taking in their flushed cheeks and disheveled hair.
"Fencing, of course," Thom lied without blinking an eye.
Alianne looked at him shrewdly. "That was a quick fencing lesson, wasn't it?"
Callie looked at Thom anxiously. He looked uncomfortable and shrugged. "I'm gross-I need to bathe. And so do you, Cal," he said, tugging a lock of her coal black hair that had escaped it's tie. Before Alianne could ask further, he disappeared into his quarters.
"You need a bath too," Alianne said sternly, placing her hands on her hips and looking exactly like her mother.
But Callie was already to her door. "Yes, you're certainly right!" she said in a slightly unnatural, high voice.
Alianne threw her hands in the air. "Fine, if you don't want to tell me, that's wonderful," she snapped, and walked into her chambers, muttering about lying older brothers and friends.
"Whoops," Callie said softly without a trace of guilt. She knew that Alianne bounced back very quickly and she would stop thinking of it as soon as they arrived in court.
Flowergurl :D
A Whole New World
Chapter Three: A Mysterious Conversation
Alanna sat at her desk, chewing her quill pen, deep in thought. She was wondering what exactly she would write to her friend and fellow mage, Numair Salmalin, about the young Copper Islander girl's talent. Alanna wasn't even sure that Callie possessed an elemental Gift, but judging by Alianne's report, Callie had some connection with water.
Yes, Alanna's daughter had come to Alanna a week ago, winded, and gasped out that Callie touched the water and her fingers turned a deep sea green. Alanna had tested Callie soon after Alianne's announcement, persuading her to simply light a fire. But the girl had been flustered and had only managed a puff of blue green smoke.
Sighing in frustration, Alanna pushed her chair away from her desk, stood, and began walking around the study. Perhaps she was making a big deal out of nothing…and perhaps not. Callie certainly felt differently from other Gifted people, and she was sure Numair would feel the same.
Shouts roused Alanna from her thoughts and she walked quickly to the window. She smiled at the scene that was taking place on the stone balcony a few floors down: Callie was backing away slowly from Alanna's son, Thom, with a water bucket concealed behind her back. Thom was soaking wet, and Callie looked as though she was doing some very fast-talking. In an attempt to save herself, she pointed wildly at Alianne, who was perched on the wall, laughing herself silly. Thom shook his head, spraying Callie's dry sky blue blouse and tan breeches with drops of water, and took off after her. Callie flung the empty bucket aside and ran for her life. She was giving Thom a very good run, but he was faster and soon she was in his arms on the ground, and he was tickling her mercilessly.
Alanna began giggling and was soon joined by George's hearty laugh. "Ah, young love," he sighed, putting his arms around the Lioness's waist.
Alanna spun to face him in alarm. "Young what?!"
"Alanna…he isn't five anymore," George said gently, his eyes sparkling.
She sighed and looked out the window again. Now Alianne was trying to save her friend by prying her brother's arm off. Thom turned and began tickling her and Callie got up quickly.
"You really think so? But Callie's so young! Only...what? Seventeen?"
George chuckled. "Just don't be surprised, love."
Alanna's shoulder's drooped in defeat. "I suppose you're right. Again."
George squeezed her gently and looked out the window himself. Thom's attention was on Callie again, and they were circling around a large wooden table. After moments of chasing, Thom sat down and faced the wall. The girls couldn't see his devious smile.
"Look! The little devil's makin' them think they've won!" George cried, laughter choking him.
"Oh, Alianne's smart…you see, she won't fall for something stupid like that," Alanna said confidently. But, contrary to her thoughts, both Callie and Alianne were approaching Thom warily. "No-she wouldn't! Would she?" Alanna cried, pressing her hands on the cold window, her breath fogging it up.
Sure enough, both girls were stealthily approaching, and Callie smiled triumphantly. Her mouth formed the words "I guess we won then!"
Thom grinned and turned, pulling her down and tickling her again. Finally, she lifted her arms up in defeat and he stopped, still grinning, and pulled her to her feet.
Alanna smiled and turned away from the window. "It's so nice having Thom home. It's so nice to be home, although I daresay I'll be getting some type of bird from Jon telling me I need to go to Corus any day now."
"Well, we shan't think about that 'til it comes," George said firmly. "Were you goin' to write a letter?" He asked curiously, taking in the open inkbottle, blank paper, and chewed quill on the desk.
"Yes," Alanna sighed. "But I didn't get very far, as you can tell," she said wryly.
"To Numair?" George asked, looking at her piercingly.
"Yes, to see if he could tell if Callie's got elemental magic or not. I think she does, but I don't know for sure."
"Well, you should at least try. If he can't come here than we can bring her to court-"
George was cut off by a tapping noise at the window. A great eagle was perched on the sill. George rushed to let it in and it flew to the arm of the chair next to Alanna. It stuck out its foot, where a letter sealed with the royal crest was tied, impatiently.
"I knew it," Alanna said with grim triumph. She untied the letter and read it quickly while George filled a cup of water for the bird. "Yes, Jon wants me in Corus as soon as possible, and he wants to meet the 'young Copper Islander' apparently," Alanna said, still looking at the letter.
George put on a smile and said, "Well, looks like we're goin' on a family trip!"
Alanna rolled her eyes. "I suppose so."
"Love, it'll be okay…you know Alianne'll be thrilled, she hasn't seen Alan since we took her to court. That was, what? A bit over a year?" George said with encouragement.
"Yes, you're right," Alanna said, looking back out the window. "And Callie needs to be introduced to the court anyway. We can also take her to Numair. Yes, this will be a good thing, I think."
~*~*~*~*
"To court?" Callie squeaked.
"Yes, to court," Alanna said firmly. "King Jonathan requested you came specifically."
"So there's no use saying that I can take care of the manor until you get back?" Callie asked miserably, sitting on the nearest chair.
"No, I'm afraid not, lass," George said kindly, taking her hand. "But we're all going! And don't forget, Tortall is different. All of my best friends live at court, and they'll be delighted to meet you."
Callie tried another tactic. "But I don't know how to curtsy or dance or eat properly! That would take months to teach me, right?" She asked anxiously.
"She does have a point," Alanna said grimly, looking at George.
"Not with four teachers," Thom said, stepping forward. "We could start now."
"Good thinking, lad," George said, grinning at his son. "C'mon Callie, stand up-oh, don't you think she should be wearin' a skirt?"
"Yes, I should be, and there's no time for that, so," Callie said hastily, standing.
Thom caught her by the arm. "Oh no you don't, Callie."
"We'll make a lady of you yet," Alianne grinned, passing Callie to get to her mother.
"Great Mother, help me!"
~*~*~*~*
Three days later, Callie felt as though her head had been stuffed. She knew how to eat, how too greet a prince versus a king, how to carry on a very polite conversation, all the different titles for nobility, and more. Callie was running all the "useless knowledge" (in her opinion) through her head as she nervously played with a ringlet in the carriage. They were in the city of Corus, and while Alianne squealed every time she saw something she recognized, Callie was feeling less excited and sicker.
It wasn't because of the bumpy ride either, mind you.
Alanna, George, and Thom were riding outside the carriage, and had been since the beginning of their journey the day before. They had decided to split it up in order to ride at a more leisurely pace. But no matter how slow Callie had willed the carriage to go, they were climbing up the large hill that would take them to the palace.
"Ooh, Callie, come look! The palace is gorgeous!" Alianne cried gleefully.
"No, thanks, but I'll see it later," Callie moaned, clutching her stomach.
"Are you all right? Do you need to see a healer? Because I can just ask Ma- "
"No don't!" Callie exclaimed, cutting the sixteen-year-old off.
Alianne grinned wickedly. "I thought you would see it my way."
Callie stuck her tongue out at Alianne who grinned at her impishly. Callie recalled with a wince the events that had taken place the night before- Alanna had finally lost her temper with the girl and yelled at her for thinking that she was going to meet her death by being introduced to the court.
The carriage halted and Thom opened the door formally, bowing. "My Lady Callidora," he teased, holding his hand out.
Callie took a shaky breath and attempted to smile back. She placed her hand in his callused palm and stepped out, nearly tripping on her blue wool shift. A hostler came out of the stables to greet them. "Bless me, it's George Cooper!" he smiled.
George dismounted and shook the man's hand. "Stefan, good to see you," he grinned.
"An' ye, My Lord Baron," Stefan said, a hint of amusement in his voice.
"Who's that?" Callie whispered to Thom, who still held her hand.
"An old friend of Da's, who used to be in the Court of the Rogue with him," Thom whispered back.
"Thom! Aren't you forgetting someone?!" And indignant voice called from the carriage.
"Sorry sister dear, but I've got my hands full," Thom said, holding up his and Callie's intertwined hands.
Alianne scowled, but allowed a royal serving man to help her down instead.
"And look 'ere, it's Sir Thom!" Stefan said, patting Thom's mount. Fireshield, who was actually a chestnut, looked red in the sunlight. "And who's this lady?" he asked, bowing to Callie.
"Callidora Hennet, Stefan," George said, putting an arm on Callie's shoulder fondly. "She's bein' introduced into court."
"Ah," Stefan said, nodding. "Well, I daresay ye know where ye're goin'. But I'll have a man escort miladys and Sir Thom," he said, bowing to Callie and Alianne.
The man who helped Alianne from the carriage beckoned, and the whole party, except Stefan, trooped up the hill to the palace. Callie got her first real look at it and gasped. It really was gorgeous, with turrets and towers shooting up everywhere. They were led into a grand entrance hall, which was so big it made Callie's eyes hurt, and were greeted by a smiling man and woman, both dressed informally. The man was very handsome with dark hair, shining blue eyes, and a tall build. The woman was dressed plainly, but she looked like royalty in the simple blouse and breeches. She had black curly hair, pearly white skin, and large hazel eyes. She hugged Alanna and George warmly, as did the man.
"Surely you remember my son, Thom, and daughter, Alianne?" George asked formally.
"Of course," the woman said, embracing Alianne. Thom dropped Callie's hand (which she had forgotten about) and kissed the woman's hand and bowed to the man.
"And this," Alanna said, gently pushing Callie forward, "is Callidora Hennet. Callie, this is King Jonathan and Queen Thayet of Tortall."
Callie's jaw dropped and her eyes went as wide as saucers. Thayet-the queen!- smiled warmly and shook her hand. Callie was amazed that her hand felt callused-the sign of hard work. She quickly shut her mouth and curtsied to the queen, her mind whirling, and then to the king.
"Welcome, Callidora," King Jonathan said, his voice deep and very pleasant. "I hope you enjoy it here in Tortall."
"Oh, yes, very much so!" Callie exclaimed, forgetting herself. She swallowed and dropped another curtsy quickly.
"Good, good. Now, Alanna, George, come with me now. You can check into your rooms later," the king said, steering the Lioness and her husband out of the great hall.
"I'll come with you to your rooms, then," Queen Thayet said cheerfully, following the serving man who was leading them to their rooms. "its not as if what my lord is talking about is anything new to me. Alianne, I just cannot get over how much you've grown!"
Callie stared at the floor, determinedly placing one foot in front of the other, hearing Alianne and Thayet chatting in the background. The famed king and queen were-were normal, everyday people! That concept was baffling to Callie-and she knew it would take getting used to.
"Are you okay?" A voice asked in her ear.
Callie jumped and stared up into Thom's hazel eyes. "Yeah," she replied, shaking her head. "I'm just really mixed up here."
He smiled and took her hand. "Don't worry, you'll fit in quicker than Tortallan natives."
Callie's heartbeat quickened. She was acutely aware of how close their bodies were, and how good he smelled. She found herself actually wishing for a split second that he did like her romantically, but she gave herself a mental slap. That was so stupid-Alianne had said that Thom had no interest in her in that way, and Callie was happy about that. Really, she was.
But then, why did she feel so unhappy?
Callie realized that the queen had said something to her. She blushed. "I'm sorry, Highness, I didn't catch that."
Thayet smiled. "I simply asked if you were nervous about tonight?"
Callie swallowed. "Oh-oh no, Majesty, not at all."
Alianne snorted and Callie glared at her. "Well that's good, you shouldn't be," Thayet said with reassurance. Her hazel eyes flicked to Thom's hand, which was holding Callie's tightly as he smiled at her, and Thayet's eyes lit and she turned to Alianne, who looked where Thayet was looking.
Alianne sighed. "It's a lot more complicated than it looks," she muttered to the queen as they turned down a corridor.
"Really?" the queen inquired.
"Yes-it's a long story, and, begging your Highness' pardon, but may I tell it later?" Alianne pleaded.
"Of course," Thayet smiled. "And I think we are at your rooms-yes, we are," she smiled as the serving man opened a door. Thayet stepped back and allowed her guests to pass through the door before her, noticing that Callidora dropped Thom's hand in the process.
It was the most beautiful room Callie had ever seen-counting the one at Pirate's Swoop. It was filled with chairs and sofas and books, all done in light pink and gold. Straight in front of them was a huge bay window, with a view of the palace lawns. There were three doors leading off of the room.
"Callidora, this is your room," Thayet said hospitably, gesturing to a door on her right, "Alianne, that one next to Callidora's is yours, and Sir Thom, this is your room," she pointed to the only door on the left side of the room. "I do hope you find them comfortable. Excuse me, I will leave and let you settle in."
Alianne and Callie curtsied and Thom bowed deeply. Thayet nodded her head and closed the door after her.
"I told you she wasn't your average queen," Thom said with a grin, sitting heavily down on a plump chair.
Callie nodded fervently and sat in the sofa opposite him, and Alianne took a seat on Callie's left. There soon was a knock, and a parade of servants came in, bringing the trio's belongings, followed up by a very distinguished man, announcing that they had precisely three hours to change into their dinner attire.
Alianne exhaled loudly when he left. "Mithros, they think that all nobles need three hours to change! But a bath does sound nice right now…" she said thoughtfully, rising and gliding across the room to her door.
Thom rolled his eyes and grinned at Callie. "So, Cal, want to go practice fencing?"
Callie raised her eyebrows. "Cal, is it?"
"Sure, if you don't mind."
Callie shook her head and grinned. "Alright, but only for a bit. I do need some time to change, you know."
"I'm sure that you would look delightful even if you wore a keg, milady Callie," Thom said, mock-bowing and offering his arm.
"Wait a moment, let me change out of this dratted dress," Callie said. She rushed into her room, where three maids were busily putting her cloths away and gossiping loudly. They stopped chattering immediately upon Callie's entrance, and all curtsied respectfully.
"Oh-don't let me disturb you," Callie said, her face tinged red. "I-I just need some breeches and a blouse…" she looked around at all the cases that held her clothes.
"Disturb us, milady?" One maid inquired, her eyes wide.
One was already digging through Callie's things, while the other had a feather duster that was posed in midair, her eyes wide with shock.
"Yes…well, I'll-erm, be leaving now," Callie said hurriedly, shutting herself in what she hope was a privy. To her immense relief it was, and she changed into the much lighter clothes. She managed to do so without breaking anything and only cursing a few times. Callie had time to throw her hair into a quick ponytail before rushing into the common room, where Thom was practicing lunges and blows against a person only he could see. Callie had only begun fencing with the young knight a week ago, and he was quite good. Better than Alianne, that is, of course, he was a trained knight-and Callie was always looking for a challenge, even though she could do nothing but block when up against Thom.
Callie cleared her throat and he spun, his cheeks reddening before he grinned to cover it up. Callie had to restrain from laughing. He was embarrassed!
"Alianne, Callie and me are going to fence, all right?" Thom called through her door.
"All right!" Came the muffled yell.
The two set off through the winding halls that made up the castle. "I'm glad you know where we're going," Callie said, breaking the silence and shivering slightly.
"Actually, my dear, I haven't the slightest clue as to where we are," Thom said cheerfully.
"What?!" Callie cried, stopping dead and facing him.
"I think we're actually somewhere near the library…" Thom said, turning right. Callie ran to catch up with him, sighing and looking at a particularly interesting painting portraying a wolf-hunt, when wham! She hit something solid and fell onto her rear end.
"Ouch! What the-"
Callie felt a hand sneak around her mouth and she was pulled into the shadows. The girl struggled wildly until Thom came into her line of vision. He was white and more serious-looking than she had ever seen. He pressed a finger to his lips and removed his hand from her mouth. Keeping to the shadows, he crept along a wall and went down a side passage. Callie followed, wondering what was going on. The passage they were in had holes in the side of the wall, where angry, hushed voices were leaking through:
"-know how bad this could be if you're found!" A male voice cried. Thom looked slowly through a hole and Callie followed his example, looking in one close to her. The scene revealed a pacing man whose face were hidden by shadows and a comfortable chair that was seated in front of a roaring fire. It was someone's bed chamber. Feet were the only thing that led Callie to believe that the chair was occupied-highly polished black boots, with a peculiar green fringe on the bottom.
A deep throaty chuckle came from the chair. "I have done this since I was a youngling. I know what I'm doing, and I won't be caught, I assure you."
The man who was pacing stopped. "I suppose you are right. But what about her?"
"She won't have clue, I swear by Mithros." The man in the chair said.
The pacing man sighed. "All the same, be careful, for the gods' sakes."
"She doesn't know her power yet," the man in the chair said suddenly, changing the subject. "She is only seventeen. Still easy to bend. Perhaps I can persuade her-"
"No!" the pacing man sounded quite near hysterics. "You are only here to see her and then leave!"
The man in the chair sighed. "Very well."
"Good," the pacing man sounded a great deal more relaxed. "How about a shot of brandy, eh?"
~*~*~*~*
Callie and Thom burst back into their common room a bit later. They shut the door quickly behind them and Callie slumped on a couch, Thom taking a seat next to her.
"Thom?" Callie panted as soon as she had gotten her breath back.
"I know. It-it was wrong to have done that…" he said, looking at her.
"Actually," Callie said, sitting up, "that thought hadn't even passed through my head. I was wondering if you knew who they could have been talking about."
Thom grinned. "I should have known. And no, I don't have any idea who they could have been talking about."
Callie shrugged, determined to not let it bother her. But she kept wondering if they could have been talking about her. She blushed at her selfishness. That was stupid. The girl shook her head and got to her feet.
"Callie? Is that you?" Alianne called, stepping into the common room. She was wearing a brightly colored kimono and her hair was toweled up. "I didn't think you would ever get back-what have you been doing?" Alianne asked with puzzlement, taking in their flushed cheeks and disheveled hair.
"Fencing, of course," Thom lied without blinking an eye.
Alianne looked at him shrewdly. "That was a quick fencing lesson, wasn't it?"
Callie looked at Thom anxiously. He looked uncomfortable and shrugged. "I'm gross-I need to bathe. And so do you, Cal," he said, tugging a lock of her coal black hair that had escaped it's tie. Before Alianne could ask further, he disappeared into his quarters.
"You need a bath too," Alianne said sternly, placing her hands on her hips and looking exactly like her mother.
But Callie was already to her door. "Yes, you're certainly right!" she said in a slightly unnatural, high voice.
Alianne threw her hands in the air. "Fine, if you don't want to tell me, that's wonderful," she snapped, and walked into her chambers, muttering about lying older brothers and friends.
"Whoops," Callie said softly without a trace of guilt. She knew that Alianne bounced back very quickly and she would stop thinking of it as soon as they arrived in court.