AN/ Alright, I don't think I've ever been more sorry in my life as I am at
this moment. I'm not even going to mention how long it's been since I've
updated, let's just say far, far too long. Also, I'm extremely out of
practice and flow with this story, so this is at the very least a boring
chapter, and not very well written either. I rather hate it, but it's
something. I'm very, very sorry you guys, for everything, and for those of
you who didn't read my message in my bio, it was simply real life catching
up to me. Bad stuff, that. Anyway, I'll try to get more chapters out
ASAP, but I won't make any promises anymore, they tend to cause more bad
luck than good. Thanks everybody ^_^
Oh, also all words supposed to be italics will be within either for thoughts and the like, and * * for expressive words. I hope. It's really late though, so I may have missed some ^_^;
Chapter Ten - A Horribly Boring Chapter
Estrela awoke, conscious of the warm body beside her, the sweet musky smell of sleep all around her, and the absence of blood and burning pain. A dream. Gods above, just a dream. Estrela raised her eyes, bringing her after-nightmare trembling under control, and saw Folken's slumbering face next to her, so peaceful and soft. He looked so young while he slept. . . He is young, she reminded herself, very young. . .
Is this indecent? She wondered, Sleeping with the crown prince, and I'm over eight times his age? They weren't really doing anything scandalous, both fully dressed, above the covers of the bed, nothing had happened. Still, having Folken's arms wrapped around her while she slept was something Estrela knew couldn't be a common occurrence, and was certainly nothing she had expected. It was quite nice though. . . Stop that! She chided herself, Either get up, or go back to sleep, but don't you dare lay here enjoying this, it's obscene!
Normally Estrela agreed with that little voice in her mind, but in this case she was forced to dismiss what it was saying as pure rubbish. There was nothing obscene about liking to be near a friend, and it was impossible to be uncomfortable in this situation, so warm and soft. She closed her eyes again, but her mind was immediately filled with memories and voices. She snapped back to alertness, feeling cold sweat pop on her brow. How could someone feel this safe and this terrified at the same time? Estrela nestled closer to Folken, trying to feel his security without causing him disturbance. It worked fairly well, he only shifted once, head tilting to the side and grip on her tightening ever so slightly. Estrela let out the breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding and rested her head against the prince's shoulder, trying to ignore the fear eating at her insides. She couldn't remember everything that had happened, mostly just the pain, but she recalled the incessant chanting, some in Old Tongue, some in common, and that other voice, the only one who spoke to her. That repulsive, oozing voice that ran in and out of her head like a serpent, coming in the times of greatest pain to mock and torment her, or in the rare times of respite, to threaten and goad. Gods, she could still feel his stagnant breath on her cheek. Estrela shuddered and pulled Folken more snugly against the memories. Unfortunately, this move pushed the sleeping Folken over the edge, causing him to snort, suddenly coming awake, though not quite aware. He looked down at her, eyes still half lidded and slightly red,
"Well, hullo Estrela. . ." He said in a voice still muffled with sleep, then something seemed to click in his mind, "Where am I?"
"You are in my room, Folken," She answered him, trying to keep her voice calm, "Or rather, you're on my bed. Remember? I wasn't feeling all that well, and you decided to stay with me until I felt better. You must have fallen asleep." The prince seemed to grapple with simple thought, as only one just awaken can do, and then shook his head,
"What time is it?" He asked after a moment. Estrela stole a glance at the bedroom window. Dammit, the curtains were closed.
"I don't know," She said finally. Folken looked down at her again, his thoughts seemed to be becoming less muddled as he slowly awakened.
"I should go," He said. Then, "How are you feeling?"
"Better, Folken, thank you" Estrela replied, "That doesn't happen often, really. I don't know what caused it. Thank you for staying with me though, I appreciate it. And you don't have to go if you don't want. . ." She finished with a blush, very aware of her hand on his chest, the steady beat of his heart. Folken raised an eyebrow, "I had a nightmare," Estrela explained, blushing deeper and dropping her eyes, "I really don't want to be alone. . ." Estrela felt Folken's hand move from her back, and she was afraid she had offended him, but eased when she felt his fingers push her bangs from her face.
"Of course I'll stay," He said softly, "You don't have to be scared," Then he paused, "I do have to cover up with something though, it's freezing in here." He was right. The after-sleep warmth had slowly diminished, and now Estrela felt the cool night air against her skin. It wasn't unbearable by any means, but it was uncomfortable. What worried Estrela now however was if being under the covers with Folken would prove more uncomfortable. The thought of it didn't seem to bother the prince though, and she was cold, so Estrela decided it was worth the risk. Both Folken and Estrela slid off the bed on opposite sides, pulling the quilts down and hopping back on the down mattress before the chill hit them too severely. This isn't so bad . . . Estrela thought. Then Folken moved.
He seemed less willing to hold her in his arms now that they were covered, but he was pressed very closely against her body anyway. The feeling made Estrela shiver involuntarily, and the prince must have taken this as a sign of cold or fear. Turning and reaching out for her awkwardly, Folken drew her toward him again, which in turn caused another shake,
"Please don't be afraid," He whispered into her hair, one hand rubbing the scars on her back, the other clutching her slender fingers, "I don't want you to be afraid anymore," Those simple words filled Estrela's ebony eyes with burning tears and brought a lump to her throat.
"Thank you Folken . . ." She whispered as she hugged him tighter and buried her face in his chest. He made her feel so safe, so . . . loved? Estrela, lying cradled in the prince's arms, slowly allowed sleep to take her again, memories kept at bay by the steady beat of Folken's heart.
True to her word, Mrs.Greain delivered Estrela's dress to the palace two moons after her fitting, making it the twentieth, and the first day of celebrations. Estrela had managed to sneak the package from where Mrs.Greain's messenger had waited at the main entrance of the palace all the way to her quarters without Folken noticing, but just incase she hid the large box inside her armoire with her box of new underclothes atop it. That would be sure to stop any nosey crown princes from digging around. The dress itself was amazing, all in dove grey silk with a small embellishment of cream lace around the rather scooped neckline. The back was high however, as per her request, and would cover all of her marred flesh. The bodice of the dress was embroidered in black with small flowers and leaves, as well as a small scalloped pattern around the cuff of the slight sleeves and the hem of the wide skirt. Along with the elbow length cream gloves, soft, grey leather ankle boots and small pearl comb she had bought, Estrela thought the outfit looked quite good. She wished she owned a bit more jewelry though, her new comb was her only piece, and she knew that all the other ladies attending would be glittering in droves of gems and gold. It makes no difference, She told herself sternly, I will go and I will look the best I can. A knock came on the door of her sitting room just as she was closing her closet and she hurried out to answer it. Folken stood in the hallway, wearing dark tan breeches, a long sleeved, white shirt, and a rather odd looking black vest that hung down to his mid thighs. He had his heavy grey cloak in his arms and looked very excited.
"Hello Folken," Estrela said, wary of his expression, which was awfully mischievous looking, "Please come in," He smiled,
"No." He said in a beaming voice, "You're coming out here." Estrela regarded him uncertainly,
"Why am I coming out there?" She asked, suspicion and confusion clear in her voice,
"Because," He said, that thrice damned grin still plastered on his features, "It is the first night of celebrations and you are coming with me into the city."
"I'm what?" Of course he'd do this, dragging her to the ball wouldn't be enough,
"You are coming into the city with me. The sun's just setting, which means the really good festivities are just starting. Come on, it'll be fun," He looked so damned happy, it was sickening. Estrela let out an exaggerated sigh,
"Alright, come in for a moment while I change," She turned her back to the prince and started back for her bedroom,
"You look fine, why do you need to change?" He called to her from the doorway,
"Just humor me, please?" She said over her shoulder as she closed the door to her sleeping chamber. Moving to the armoire again, Estrela reached into the very back where her old traveling pack sat. Most of her things had been removed and hung or folded in the armoire, but there was one or two items remaining in the bag. Estrela pulled out a cloth wrapped bundle, tied with a length of strong cord and set it on her bed. Stuffing the pack back into the closet, Estrela carefully untied the package and unfolded the cloth, revealing a loosely cut white shirt of raw silk, and a long pleated skirt of dark brown cotton, both absolutely covered in a rainbow of embroidery and beads. The sleeves and neck of the shirt and the hem of the skirt were all fringed with strings of beads, making a curious clicking noise when they were moved. Estrela gazed down at the clothing, she had not untied the package in a very long time, but wearing these now seemed to prove her triumph over at least that part of her past. Yes, it still hurt her to even look at the outfit, but she could overcome that. No one but she would ever have to know that these were the clothes she was meant to be married in.
It was strange, Estrela was expecting the clothes to be stale, musty smelling after so long, but they were curiously fresh, like something just washed. Even the tiny creases in the skirt were still intact, very odd indeed. Estrela thanked her people's amazing weaving skills and her mother's excellent seamstress abilities for the condition of the garments before slipping out of her shirt and breeches and pulling the skirt up over her hips.
Folken had been amusing himself idly by twisting a corner of his cloak between his finger and thumb when the door to Estrela's bedchamber creaked open again. Turning his head, Folken felt his jaw drop open and his cheeks flush hot as he regarded the woman before him.
"Ready," She said lightly as she adjusted her hair. It was the first time Folken had seen it out of a braid, it was now pulled up behind her head in the largest bun the prince had ever seen. It must have been bigger than both of his fists put together. These thoughts were dismissed as she brushed past him to get to her cloak lying on a chair beside the door. Folken stopped her with a hand placed on her arm and turned her around to face him.
"Where did you get that?" He asked suddenly, painfully aware of his blunt manner and his immediate proximity to the gorgeous woman before him "I never seen the like of it in the market before," Estrela fingered the bead fringe around the deep 'v' shaped neck of her top before responding,
"It didn't come from the market, it's mine from a long time ago,"
"Then what was all that about not having anything nice besides that violet shirt? This is beautiful!" Dammit! I sound like a buffoon. Estrela blushed slightly before responding, her voice soft and slightly uneasy.
"This is from a long time ago, a time that I found very painful to be reminded of until now. This is formal dress for my people, something I was allowed to take with me when I was exiled. It's – I've been too bitter to even look at this for a very long time. I had forgotten how good it felt, to be like a Cisne again . . ." She dropped her eyes to the cuff of her sleeve, running her hand over the ribbons of embroidery. The rainbow of colours twisted around her arms and across her chest, broken at random by small white birds or feathers, seemingly soaring through the maze of hues. Her skirt was the same, though the pattern seemed to flow up from her feet and fade when approaching her hips.
"It's amazing," Folken said; in a tone that seemed convey he was speaking of more than the clothing, though it may have been her imagination. "The design looks like the one on your chall," Estrela felt her heart move into her throat, but the prince took the observation no further. Instead, Folken passed Estrela her cloak with another intense and badly hidden stare running down her body. She wasn't sure if she was flattered or embarrassed by the attention, but couldn't imagine what his reaction would be when he saw her in the ball gown if this caused him to look at her like that. Folken held the door open, motioning for Estrela to proceed into the hallway, then offered her his arm as they made their way through the corridor.
"You're really being a gentleman this evening Folken," Estrela remarked with a hint of a smirk.
"Are you implying, my lady, that I am not always gentlemanly?" The prince gasped with mock indignity.
"Of course not, dear sir," She replied, imitating his tone, "I would never insult a lord's honor in such a way, no matter how foolish and uncouth he behaved at times," Folken stopped suddenly, grasping his chest with one hand and removing his arm from her's to bring his other hand to his forehead in a gesture of anguish
"You wound me lady," He wailed, retreating a step, "I fear I shant ever recover, oh my heart!" The prince fell backwards against a tapestried wall and slid down onto the hardwood floor. He lay unmoving, head lolled to one side and eyes closed, for a silent moment, then slitted one eye open to glance up at Estrela, who stood above him with arms crossed and an eyebrow raised. A smile grew over Folken's features at the exasperated expression Estrela was trying to keep over the giggles that were rising in her throat.
"You," She said finally with a sigh, "Are ridiculous."
"I know." The prince responded, opening his other eye and sitting up. Estrela shook her head with a laugh and reached down to help Folken stand.
A short time later found the pair walking arm and arm down a street filled with laughing, celebrating people, and lit by countless coloured lanterns hung all around. It was truly an experience, the night air filled with music and voices, the aromas of savory food and spirits thick about everything, and the mutual emotion one of joy and merrymaking. Folken was leading Estrela through it all, reveling in her wonder and enchantment at the festivities around them. When they came upon one open square, Estrela greatly surprised the prince by pulling him into the center where many people had gathered to dance before a lively band. Folken had only a moment to register that the musicians looked to be part of the Egzardian merchant congregation that had arrived in the city the day before. There were both men and women playing, all very scantily dressed by conventional standards despite the chill in the air, but all seemed to be working up a good sweat. From their instruments, hand drums, flutes, stringed things, most Estrela were familiar with, came a tune so lively it made standing still next to impossible. Estrela had Folken by both hands now, pulled into the heart of the dance. Before the prince could think, Estrela had him spinning, in a wide, fast circle that cleared an area around them and focused the attention of every person in the square. Estrela then slowed, unaware of the attention, glass covered eyes devoted only to the man before her. She unfastened her cloak from her shoulders with one fluid motion and tossed it to her right. Then, one hand holding the front of her skirts, the other raised above her head, Estrela's feet began to move, almost too quickly to follow, talking her around the prince and spinning her in quick spirals as well. Folken tracked her movements as she went, completely in awed. After she had made a complete circle around him, Estrela reached in and grasped the prince's hands once again, bringing him sharply towards her and raising both of their linked arms to either side of their heads. Their faces were now mere finger widths away from each other and Folken could see the absolute joy, the complete abandon in Estrela's flushed features.
"Alright," She whispered hoarsely, "Move your feet," At the panic in his face, Estrela added, "Just follow the music, you'll do fine," And then she began.
Again, leading Folken, Estrela moved around the circle formed by the crowd of people now watching the display. This time, however, she did not twirl or spiral, but always kept herself dancing backwards and pulling Folken along. The prince finally seemed to catch the beat, moving his legs much slower than his partner, but making a valiant effort nonetheless. After a few rapid circles, Estrela lead Folken into the center of their ring. She straightened their arms between them, still keeping one hand clasped but releasing the prince's other.
"Spin me," She hissed urgently, and after a moment's confusion, Folken lifted their joined hands and spun Estrela before him in tight revolutions. Her chestnut skirt flew outward, creating a huge halo of fabric and exposing more of her long legs than was truly proper, though her ethereal speed kept all but their shape indefinable. Folken stopped her spin when he felt her squeeze his hand, only to have her release his grip as soon as she had ceased, flipping backwards to land at the edge of the circle in a crouch, hands out to brace her on either side and skirt in a wide pool around her. It took the crowd an instant to realize that the music had stopped, and that the display was apparently over. Cheers erupted as Estrela stood from her kneel; adjusting her glasses, which, she was amazed, had stayed on her face throughout the dance. The applause and hoots being raised around her seemed to confuse Estrela for a moment, but as she gazed about the circle surrounding her, she turned to Folken, her face a brilliant red in the lantern light. He came towards her quickly retrieving her cloak from where she had tossed it into the crowd and wrapping it and an arm about her shoulders. The cheers continued, even the band joining in, as the prince lead Estrela out of the ring of people and then completely out of the square. The dance had begun again behind them, and everyone was far too busy to attempt to follow.
"I can't believe I did that. . ." Estrela murmured when they stopped in a quiet alley.
"Neither can I," Folken replied with a wiry grin, "You were fantastic." Estrela snapped her gaze to the prince's shadowed face, lit from behind by a dim blue lantern. Then she did something that surprised him completely, she began to laugh. Estrela threw her head back, a near-mad sounding cackle escaping from her throat as she brought her hands around her own waist.
"I can't believe I *did* that!" She cried again, this time delightedly, bringing her head back down to face Folken. She wore the broadest smile the prince had ever seen. Before he could blink, Estrela had her arms wrapped tightly about his back and her face pressed into his cloaked shoulder, "Thank you," She whispered into the wool, "That was wonderful. . ." Folken, having been frozen in shock until this point, made a point to hug Estrela tightly in return, still a bit unsure of why he was being embraced, but not complaining. Suddenly, much to Folken's disappointment, Estrela pulled away, keeping her hands on his back but putting a goodly space between their bodies, "I want to go back the castle now," She said, with the smile still warming her face, "I feel like just being with you," Folken was sure his eyes were bulging, but Estrela did not seem to notice and continued, "There are too many people around here, it's too stuffy. Could we just, oh I don't know, just sit in our garden or something?" Folken swallowed his heart back down into his chest and smiled at his companion,
"Of course," He said brightly, trying to keep face while he shook off his fluster. Estrela misinterpreted his cover and gave a small frown,
"If you're disappointed we can stay. I'm sorry, I'm being selfish. You took me all the way here and all I want to do is go back. I haven't even given you much of a chance to have fun. I'll stay. . ."
"Estrela," Folken began, raising her chin with his hand from where she had dropped her gaze. He smiled softly at her, his eyes appearing almost as black as hers in the dim light. "Estrela, I would much rather spend one glass just with you than spend my whole life at a festival like this. And how could I enjoy myself if I knew you were uncomfortable? I will gladly go back to the castle with you, I've had about as much fun as a prince can have at one of these celebrations without causing a scandal. . ." He trailed off with a wink, and Estrela giggled before pulling him forward again into her embrace.
"How's this for a scandal?" She mumbled into his shoulder, "Crown prince beset by white haired dancer in alleyway?" It was Folken's turn to laugh, lifting Estrela slightly in his grasp and spinning her as much as the narrow alley would allow,
"To be besotted by one such as you, m'lady, is worth such as a scandal," Estrela pulled away slightly, giggles taking her again,
"Dullard, besotted means drunk," Folken shot her a crooked grin and set her back down on the cobbles, offering an arm. She gladly took it still snickering madly and rested her head on his shoulder as they left the relative quiet of the alley and wove back into the mob of joyous, celebrating, and some more than a little besotted themselves, people.
AN/ Seriously you guys, don't tell me how bad that was. I try to do better next time, really ^_^;; I'm going to go slink off into a dark corner now. Tootles.
Oh, also all words supposed to be italics will be within either for thoughts and the like, and * * for expressive words. I hope. It's really late though, so I may have missed some ^_^;
Chapter Ten - A Horribly Boring Chapter
Estrela awoke, conscious of the warm body beside her, the sweet musky smell of sleep all around her, and the absence of blood and burning pain. A dream. Gods above, just a dream. Estrela raised her eyes, bringing her after-nightmare trembling under control, and saw Folken's slumbering face next to her, so peaceful and soft. He looked so young while he slept. . . He is young, she reminded herself, very young. . .
Is this indecent? She wondered, Sleeping with the crown prince, and I'm over eight times his age? They weren't really doing anything scandalous, both fully dressed, above the covers of the bed, nothing had happened. Still, having Folken's arms wrapped around her while she slept was something Estrela knew couldn't be a common occurrence, and was certainly nothing she had expected. It was quite nice though. . . Stop that! She chided herself, Either get up, or go back to sleep, but don't you dare lay here enjoying this, it's obscene!
Normally Estrela agreed with that little voice in her mind, but in this case she was forced to dismiss what it was saying as pure rubbish. There was nothing obscene about liking to be near a friend, and it was impossible to be uncomfortable in this situation, so warm and soft. She closed her eyes again, but her mind was immediately filled with memories and voices. She snapped back to alertness, feeling cold sweat pop on her brow. How could someone feel this safe and this terrified at the same time? Estrela nestled closer to Folken, trying to feel his security without causing him disturbance. It worked fairly well, he only shifted once, head tilting to the side and grip on her tightening ever so slightly. Estrela let out the breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding and rested her head against the prince's shoulder, trying to ignore the fear eating at her insides. She couldn't remember everything that had happened, mostly just the pain, but she recalled the incessant chanting, some in Old Tongue, some in common, and that other voice, the only one who spoke to her. That repulsive, oozing voice that ran in and out of her head like a serpent, coming in the times of greatest pain to mock and torment her, or in the rare times of respite, to threaten and goad. Gods, she could still feel his stagnant breath on her cheek. Estrela shuddered and pulled Folken more snugly against the memories. Unfortunately, this move pushed the sleeping Folken over the edge, causing him to snort, suddenly coming awake, though not quite aware. He looked down at her, eyes still half lidded and slightly red,
"Well, hullo Estrela. . ." He said in a voice still muffled with sleep, then something seemed to click in his mind, "Where am I?"
"You are in my room, Folken," She answered him, trying to keep her voice calm, "Or rather, you're on my bed. Remember? I wasn't feeling all that well, and you decided to stay with me until I felt better. You must have fallen asleep." The prince seemed to grapple with simple thought, as only one just awaken can do, and then shook his head,
"What time is it?" He asked after a moment. Estrela stole a glance at the bedroom window. Dammit, the curtains were closed.
"I don't know," She said finally. Folken looked down at her again, his thoughts seemed to be becoming less muddled as he slowly awakened.
"I should go," He said. Then, "How are you feeling?"
"Better, Folken, thank you" Estrela replied, "That doesn't happen often, really. I don't know what caused it. Thank you for staying with me though, I appreciate it. And you don't have to go if you don't want. . ." She finished with a blush, very aware of her hand on his chest, the steady beat of his heart. Folken raised an eyebrow, "I had a nightmare," Estrela explained, blushing deeper and dropping her eyes, "I really don't want to be alone. . ." Estrela felt Folken's hand move from her back, and she was afraid she had offended him, but eased when she felt his fingers push her bangs from her face.
"Of course I'll stay," He said softly, "You don't have to be scared," Then he paused, "I do have to cover up with something though, it's freezing in here." He was right. The after-sleep warmth had slowly diminished, and now Estrela felt the cool night air against her skin. It wasn't unbearable by any means, but it was uncomfortable. What worried Estrela now however was if being under the covers with Folken would prove more uncomfortable. The thought of it didn't seem to bother the prince though, and she was cold, so Estrela decided it was worth the risk. Both Folken and Estrela slid off the bed on opposite sides, pulling the quilts down and hopping back on the down mattress before the chill hit them too severely. This isn't so bad . . . Estrela thought. Then Folken moved.
He seemed less willing to hold her in his arms now that they were covered, but he was pressed very closely against her body anyway. The feeling made Estrela shiver involuntarily, and the prince must have taken this as a sign of cold or fear. Turning and reaching out for her awkwardly, Folken drew her toward him again, which in turn caused another shake,
"Please don't be afraid," He whispered into her hair, one hand rubbing the scars on her back, the other clutching her slender fingers, "I don't want you to be afraid anymore," Those simple words filled Estrela's ebony eyes with burning tears and brought a lump to her throat.
"Thank you Folken . . ." She whispered as she hugged him tighter and buried her face in his chest. He made her feel so safe, so . . . loved? Estrela, lying cradled in the prince's arms, slowly allowed sleep to take her again, memories kept at bay by the steady beat of Folken's heart.
True to her word, Mrs.Greain delivered Estrela's dress to the palace two moons after her fitting, making it the twentieth, and the first day of celebrations. Estrela had managed to sneak the package from where Mrs.Greain's messenger had waited at the main entrance of the palace all the way to her quarters without Folken noticing, but just incase she hid the large box inside her armoire with her box of new underclothes atop it. That would be sure to stop any nosey crown princes from digging around. The dress itself was amazing, all in dove grey silk with a small embellishment of cream lace around the rather scooped neckline. The back was high however, as per her request, and would cover all of her marred flesh. The bodice of the dress was embroidered in black with small flowers and leaves, as well as a small scalloped pattern around the cuff of the slight sleeves and the hem of the wide skirt. Along with the elbow length cream gloves, soft, grey leather ankle boots and small pearl comb she had bought, Estrela thought the outfit looked quite good. She wished she owned a bit more jewelry though, her new comb was her only piece, and she knew that all the other ladies attending would be glittering in droves of gems and gold. It makes no difference, She told herself sternly, I will go and I will look the best I can. A knock came on the door of her sitting room just as she was closing her closet and she hurried out to answer it. Folken stood in the hallway, wearing dark tan breeches, a long sleeved, white shirt, and a rather odd looking black vest that hung down to his mid thighs. He had his heavy grey cloak in his arms and looked very excited.
"Hello Folken," Estrela said, wary of his expression, which was awfully mischievous looking, "Please come in," He smiled,
"No." He said in a beaming voice, "You're coming out here." Estrela regarded him uncertainly,
"Why am I coming out there?" She asked, suspicion and confusion clear in her voice,
"Because," He said, that thrice damned grin still plastered on his features, "It is the first night of celebrations and you are coming with me into the city."
"I'm what?" Of course he'd do this, dragging her to the ball wouldn't be enough,
"You are coming into the city with me. The sun's just setting, which means the really good festivities are just starting. Come on, it'll be fun," He looked so damned happy, it was sickening. Estrela let out an exaggerated sigh,
"Alright, come in for a moment while I change," She turned her back to the prince and started back for her bedroom,
"You look fine, why do you need to change?" He called to her from the doorway,
"Just humor me, please?" She said over her shoulder as she closed the door to her sleeping chamber. Moving to the armoire again, Estrela reached into the very back where her old traveling pack sat. Most of her things had been removed and hung or folded in the armoire, but there was one or two items remaining in the bag. Estrela pulled out a cloth wrapped bundle, tied with a length of strong cord and set it on her bed. Stuffing the pack back into the closet, Estrela carefully untied the package and unfolded the cloth, revealing a loosely cut white shirt of raw silk, and a long pleated skirt of dark brown cotton, both absolutely covered in a rainbow of embroidery and beads. The sleeves and neck of the shirt and the hem of the skirt were all fringed with strings of beads, making a curious clicking noise when they were moved. Estrela gazed down at the clothing, she had not untied the package in a very long time, but wearing these now seemed to prove her triumph over at least that part of her past. Yes, it still hurt her to even look at the outfit, but she could overcome that. No one but she would ever have to know that these were the clothes she was meant to be married in.
It was strange, Estrela was expecting the clothes to be stale, musty smelling after so long, but they were curiously fresh, like something just washed. Even the tiny creases in the skirt were still intact, very odd indeed. Estrela thanked her people's amazing weaving skills and her mother's excellent seamstress abilities for the condition of the garments before slipping out of her shirt and breeches and pulling the skirt up over her hips.
Folken had been amusing himself idly by twisting a corner of his cloak between his finger and thumb when the door to Estrela's bedchamber creaked open again. Turning his head, Folken felt his jaw drop open and his cheeks flush hot as he regarded the woman before him.
"Ready," She said lightly as she adjusted her hair. It was the first time Folken had seen it out of a braid, it was now pulled up behind her head in the largest bun the prince had ever seen. It must have been bigger than both of his fists put together. These thoughts were dismissed as she brushed past him to get to her cloak lying on a chair beside the door. Folken stopped her with a hand placed on her arm and turned her around to face him.
"Where did you get that?" He asked suddenly, painfully aware of his blunt manner and his immediate proximity to the gorgeous woman before him "I never seen the like of it in the market before," Estrela fingered the bead fringe around the deep 'v' shaped neck of her top before responding,
"It didn't come from the market, it's mine from a long time ago,"
"Then what was all that about not having anything nice besides that violet shirt? This is beautiful!" Dammit! I sound like a buffoon. Estrela blushed slightly before responding, her voice soft and slightly uneasy.
"This is from a long time ago, a time that I found very painful to be reminded of until now. This is formal dress for my people, something I was allowed to take with me when I was exiled. It's – I've been too bitter to even look at this for a very long time. I had forgotten how good it felt, to be like a Cisne again . . ." She dropped her eyes to the cuff of her sleeve, running her hand over the ribbons of embroidery. The rainbow of colours twisted around her arms and across her chest, broken at random by small white birds or feathers, seemingly soaring through the maze of hues. Her skirt was the same, though the pattern seemed to flow up from her feet and fade when approaching her hips.
"It's amazing," Folken said; in a tone that seemed convey he was speaking of more than the clothing, though it may have been her imagination. "The design looks like the one on your chall," Estrela felt her heart move into her throat, but the prince took the observation no further. Instead, Folken passed Estrela her cloak with another intense and badly hidden stare running down her body. She wasn't sure if she was flattered or embarrassed by the attention, but couldn't imagine what his reaction would be when he saw her in the ball gown if this caused him to look at her like that. Folken held the door open, motioning for Estrela to proceed into the hallway, then offered her his arm as they made their way through the corridor.
"You're really being a gentleman this evening Folken," Estrela remarked with a hint of a smirk.
"Are you implying, my lady, that I am not always gentlemanly?" The prince gasped with mock indignity.
"Of course not, dear sir," She replied, imitating his tone, "I would never insult a lord's honor in such a way, no matter how foolish and uncouth he behaved at times," Folken stopped suddenly, grasping his chest with one hand and removing his arm from her's to bring his other hand to his forehead in a gesture of anguish
"You wound me lady," He wailed, retreating a step, "I fear I shant ever recover, oh my heart!" The prince fell backwards against a tapestried wall and slid down onto the hardwood floor. He lay unmoving, head lolled to one side and eyes closed, for a silent moment, then slitted one eye open to glance up at Estrela, who stood above him with arms crossed and an eyebrow raised. A smile grew over Folken's features at the exasperated expression Estrela was trying to keep over the giggles that were rising in her throat.
"You," She said finally with a sigh, "Are ridiculous."
"I know." The prince responded, opening his other eye and sitting up. Estrela shook her head with a laugh and reached down to help Folken stand.
A short time later found the pair walking arm and arm down a street filled with laughing, celebrating people, and lit by countless coloured lanterns hung all around. It was truly an experience, the night air filled with music and voices, the aromas of savory food and spirits thick about everything, and the mutual emotion one of joy and merrymaking. Folken was leading Estrela through it all, reveling in her wonder and enchantment at the festivities around them. When they came upon one open square, Estrela greatly surprised the prince by pulling him into the center where many people had gathered to dance before a lively band. Folken had only a moment to register that the musicians looked to be part of the Egzardian merchant congregation that had arrived in the city the day before. There were both men and women playing, all very scantily dressed by conventional standards despite the chill in the air, but all seemed to be working up a good sweat. From their instruments, hand drums, flutes, stringed things, most Estrela were familiar with, came a tune so lively it made standing still next to impossible. Estrela had Folken by both hands now, pulled into the heart of the dance. Before the prince could think, Estrela had him spinning, in a wide, fast circle that cleared an area around them and focused the attention of every person in the square. Estrela then slowed, unaware of the attention, glass covered eyes devoted only to the man before her. She unfastened her cloak from her shoulders with one fluid motion and tossed it to her right. Then, one hand holding the front of her skirts, the other raised above her head, Estrela's feet began to move, almost too quickly to follow, talking her around the prince and spinning her in quick spirals as well. Folken tracked her movements as she went, completely in awed. After she had made a complete circle around him, Estrela reached in and grasped the prince's hands once again, bringing him sharply towards her and raising both of their linked arms to either side of their heads. Their faces were now mere finger widths away from each other and Folken could see the absolute joy, the complete abandon in Estrela's flushed features.
"Alright," She whispered hoarsely, "Move your feet," At the panic in his face, Estrela added, "Just follow the music, you'll do fine," And then she began.
Again, leading Folken, Estrela moved around the circle formed by the crowd of people now watching the display. This time, however, she did not twirl or spiral, but always kept herself dancing backwards and pulling Folken along. The prince finally seemed to catch the beat, moving his legs much slower than his partner, but making a valiant effort nonetheless. After a few rapid circles, Estrela lead Folken into the center of their ring. She straightened their arms between them, still keeping one hand clasped but releasing the prince's other.
"Spin me," She hissed urgently, and after a moment's confusion, Folken lifted their joined hands and spun Estrela before him in tight revolutions. Her chestnut skirt flew outward, creating a huge halo of fabric and exposing more of her long legs than was truly proper, though her ethereal speed kept all but their shape indefinable. Folken stopped her spin when he felt her squeeze his hand, only to have her release his grip as soon as she had ceased, flipping backwards to land at the edge of the circle in a crouch, hands out to brace her on either side and skirt in a wide pool around her. It took the crowd an instant to realize that the music had stopped, and that the display was apparently over. Cheers erupted as Estrela stood from her kneel; adjusting her glasses, which, she was amazed, had stayed on her face throughout the dance. The applause and hoots being raised around her seemed to confuse Estrela for a moment, but as she gazed about the circle surrounding her, she turned to Folken, her face a brilliant red in the lantern light. He came towards her quickly retrieving her cloak from where she had tossed it into the crowd and wrapping it and an arm about her shoulders. The cheers continued, even the band joining in, as the prince lead Estrela out of the ring of people and then completely out of the square. The dance had begun again behind them, and everyone was far too busy to attempt to follow.
"I can't believe I did that. . ." Estrela murmured when they stopped in a quiet alley.
"Neither can I," Folken replied with a wiry grin, "You were fantastic." Estrela snapped her gaze to the prince's shadowed face, lit from behind by a dim blue lantern. Then she did something that surprised him completely, she began to laugh. Estrela threw her head back, a near-mad sounding cackle escaping from her throat as she brought her hands around her own waist.
"I can't believe I *did* that!" She cried again, this time delightedly, bringing her head back down to face Folken. She wore the broadest smile the prince had ever seen. Before he could blink, Estrela had her arms wrapped tightly about his back and her face pressed into his cloaked shoulder, "Thank you," She whispered into the wool, "That was wonderful. . ." Folken, having been frozen in shock until this point, made a point to hug Estrela tightly in return, still a bit unsure of why he was being embraced, but not complaining. Suddenly, much to Folken's disappointment, Estrela pulled away, keeping her hands on his back but putting a goodly space between their bodies, "I want to go back the castle now," She said, with the smile still warming her face, "I feel like just being with you," Folken was sure his eyes were bulging, but Estrela did not seem to notice and continued, "There are too many people around here, it's too stuffy. Could we just, oh I don't know, just sit in our garden or something?" Folken swallowed his heart back down into his chest and smiled at his companion,
"Of course," He said brightly, trying to keep face while he shook off his fluster. Estrela misinterpreted his cover and gave a small frown,
"If you're disappointed we can stay. I'm sorry, I'm being selfish. You took me all the way here and all I want to do is go back. I haven't even given you much of a chance to have fun. I'll stay. . ."
"Estrela," Folken began, raising her chin with his hand from where she had dropped her gaze. He smiled softly at her, his eyes appearing almost as black as hers in the dim light. "Estrela, I would much rather spend one glass just with you than spend my whole life at a festival like this. And how could I enjoy myself if I knew you were uncomfortable? I will gladly go back to the castle with you, I've had about as much fun as a prince can have at one of these celebrations without causing a scandal. . ." He trailed off with a wink, and Estrela giggled before pulling him forward again into her embrace.
"How's this for a scandal?" She mumbled into his shoulder, "Crown prince beset by white haired dancer in alleyway?" It was Folken's turn to laugh, lifting Estrela slightly in his grasp and spinning her as much as the narrow alley would allow,
"To be besotted by one such as you, m'lady, is worth such as a scandal," Estrela pulled away slightly, giggles taking her again,
"Dullard, besotted means drunk," Folken shot her a crooked grin and set her back down on the cobbles, offering an arm. She gladly took it still snickering madly and rested her head on his shoulder as they left the relative quiet of the alley and wove back into the mob of joyous, celebrating, and some more than a little besotted themselves, people.
AN/ Seriously you guys, don't tell me how bad that was. I try to do better next time, really ^_^;; I'm going to go slink off into a dark corner now. Tootles.