Ni-hao! This is "Silvery Moon."
As the Harvest Moon progresses, both Lady Briggs and Lord Feral find similarities as well as differences about themselves. Will the similarities be able to overcome the differences? Also, Callie's situation with her father becomes dire when Lord Steele appears; ready to stake his claim to her. Why is Steele not in Avalon?
Author's note: Sorry for the delay!
Special thanks to KS Claw for the story Rping and to Renee Twist for the idea about Steele! That helps a lot.
As always, send any comments or questions to AkaneKitty@aol.com. Or, drop me a line in my review section at Fanfiction.net. Enjoy!
Ja ne,
AkaneKitty
************
Harvest Moon:
Silvery Moon
************
Dear Diary,
I gave my crystal to Lord Ulysses Feral...a dunpeal. Couldn't believe myself...but at least he talks about something other than wars. But, he is a lot of fun...and our courtship is far from being normal
I have to laugh whenever I think of that crystal. Mother said to take it because 'I might find a nice wandering Warlock'. Well, I found somebody, but not who she thinks.
Calico Briggs
****************************************************************
It had been two months since Calico had arrived at Lee's Manor, and had given Ulysses her crystal.
His Lordship has then split his time with courting Callie and dealing with his Council. From his new demeanor, gossip started about Feral courting a new Lady after all these years. But, they couldn't guess who his new Lady is.
And, Lee oversees it all...even to the point of covering for the new couple.
*************************************************************
"I win! You're too slow, Ulysses."
"...Three out of five?"
Callie laughs as she dismounts from Duzell. Feral and his steed finally reach them after a while. "Don't be such a sore loser, milord."
Feral smiles despite of himself. "I thought Ladies were supposed to ride sidesaddle. You don't."
"That's for riding short distances and flirting with your beau." Callie hands Duzell's reins to one of Lee's servants. "But, for racing, I ride like you."
"I see." Feral dismounts from his horse and hands the reins to the servants. "So, I'm not your beau?"
Callie smiles. "Can you race and flirt at the same time, milord?"
"You can between the taunts."
Callie laughs at this, and then clutches Feral's arm. "But, it is nice that you went riding with me. You've only come to see me sporadically here lately."
"I'm sorry. I've been attending quarterly meetings with my fellow dunpeals." Feral says as he escorts Callie into Lee's Manor.
"Meetings?"
"Yes. We have been discussing what to do about your father. He...still wants to fight over the disputed lands."
"He...just doesn't give up!" Callie's expression darkens. "All these years and he still wants to pick a fight with the dunpeals! He has no clue that the katizens favor you more. Even you gift of more lands didn't appease him!"
Feral looks at her. "You know that I gave lands to your father?"
Callie nods. "I thought it was very honorable for you to do that. Most warlock hold on to their lands with an iron grip. But, you..."
"Don't worry about it." Feral smiles at her, and runs a claw along her face. "Let me deal with your father, okay?"
"Alright..."
Feral clasps Callie's paws in his. "So, to make up for me not being here, why don't we catch a play tomorrow in town?"
"A show?" Callie asks. "Which town?"
"Barole. It's one of Lee's towns, so we won't look too out of place."
"Then I look forward to it, milord." Callie smiles at him, and then stifles a yawn. "Oh! Excuse my manners..."
Feral's expression looks sad for a moment, then brightens. "Then, go to your rest, milady."
Callie curtseys, and offers her paw to Feral. Feral accepts her paw and draws her closer to him.
"Oh..." Callie blushes.
"Am I being a bit forward, milady?"
"No." Callie smiles, still blushing. "Remember, it's a Lady's prerogative to speed up or slow down the Harvest Moon."
"Really? Well then..."
Feral leans forward, and gives Callie a kiss on the cheek. He then steps back and bows to her.
"Until tomorrow, Callie...Good night."
"...Good night." Callie, still blushing, curtseys again and then enters the manor.
Feral watches her go, and then enters the manor as well.
**************************************************************
A few minutes later, Feral joins Lee for tea in her study. Well, it mostly Lee drinking the tea. Feral barely touches his.
"What's wrong, Ulysses?" Lee asks, sipping her tea. "You seem quiet tonight...Did Callie's two out of three wins smash your ego?"
Feral smiles a little. "No...Matter of fact, I enjoyed that."
"Then, what's wrong?"
"Lee...I never thought that I could actually hate the night."
Lee places her teacup down. "Where did this some from?"
"Callie yawned tonight. I can't expect her to alter her schedule just to accommodate me." Feral looks down.
"It just sucks being nocturnal, doesn't it?"
"Tell me about it."
"Well, I'm sure Callie's enjoying herself." Lee says. "You're providing new experiences for her."
"I know." Feral says, still not touching his tea. "But..."
"Then don't worry about it. Concentrate on tomorrow's date." Lee commands. "You are going to see The Tale of Ultrus Viegh, are you not?"
"Yes."
"And, this will be the first time Callie will actually be inside your carriage."
Feral looks at her. Lee smiles.
"I'm sure she wouldn't want to go all the way to Barole sitting outside." Lee explains. "So, get your driver and ride inside."
"Ah..."
"Really, Ulysses...I didn't think I would have to tell you that."
************************************************************
Dear Diary,
Tomorrow night I will be attending a play with Ulysses. He didn't tell me the title, but it's an outing to make up for time he was away from me. Large fans and I finally get to use my formal gown! Good thing I packed it.
Speaking of which, it looks like my Father is in rare form. I don't get it. The Order and the Coven have been fighting over that same piece of land for years...and it doesn't matter to my Father that the dunpeals had it first. But, no matter. I will enjoy my first night in public with Ulysses.
By the way...Ulysses looked a bit sad after I yawned...Bad manners I know...But. I wonder why?
Calico Briggs
**************************************************************
The next night...
"Do you mind if I borrowed your opera glasses, Countess? I didn't think I would be needing them for my trip."
"Of course. I figured that you might need them. Take it."
Countess Lee casts an approving eye over Callie, who was taking Lee's opera glasses out of a jeweled case. She nods.
"You look lovely, dear." Lee says from her seat.
"Thank you." Callie spins around to show off her dress. "I am looking forward to being out in public with Ulysses...but, I am worried that word might get back to my father..."
"I wouldn't worry about it, dear." Lee stands up and walks up to Callie. "Barole is my town...and they are loyal to me. I doubt that I would have a spy in the midst."
"But..."
Lee lifts Callie's face with her paw. "Listen to your godmother: Enjoy yourself. Don't let worries about your father spoil your fun."
Callie nods, and the thundering of hooves are heard. Lee smiles. "I think that's your ride, Callie."
*****************************************************************
"Good evening, milord."
"Good evening."
Callie curtseys as Feral bows to her after he steps down from the carriage. She then notices a driver. "A driver tonight?"
"Hmm? Oh, yes. It isn't very far to Barole, but it wouldn't be very comfortable riding outside." Feral looks at her. "...Is this alright, milady?"
Callie smiles at him and extends her paw to Feral. "Of course."
Feral takes Callie paw and helps her into his carriage. He was about to climb in after her when Lee appears on her balcony. She calls to him.
"I want her back before sunrise, young kat!" Lee says.
"I will Countess!"
*************************************************************
"Nice interior."
"Thank you."
Callie begins to fan herself as she settles into the carriage's plush seats. Feral sits across from her, with his large frame filling the space. Callie looks at him.
"Why are you staying over there?" Callie asks, continuing to fan herself.
Feral crosses his legs. "I did not want to invade milady's personal space."
"Milord, you can be entirely too cautious."
Feral blinks at that. "Really?"
"Yes." Callie smiles. "So, which show are we seeing tonight?"
"The first act of The Tale of Ultrus Viegh." Feral says.
"What's it about?"
"It's the tale of two very different kats falling in love amongst the chaos of a crisis."
"Sounds romantic."
"I hear from my friends that it is." Feral says. "They recommend it highly."
"I see." Callie stops fanning herself for a moment.
"So, get comfortable, milady." Feral sits back. "And enjoy yourself."
"Milord..."
"Hmm?"
Callie peers at Feral through her fan. "Does the she-kat you hold in your heart differ from reality?"
"Differ?" Feral blinks. "I don't understand."
"...It's nothing, milord." Callie begins to fan herself again. "Forgive me for saying such strange things"
Feral looks at her, and sits back in his seat again.
*****************************************************************
"So this is Barole? It's lovely!"
Callie looks in awe at the bustling nightlife of the town as Feral helps her out of the carriage. Various kats and she-kats were milling about town, visiting various shops and stores. Callie links arms with him.
"Barole is mostly an entertainment town. Dunpeals such as myself frequent it." Feral says as he leads Callie down a paved street.
"Really?" Callie's eyes dance at the possibility of visiting all the shops. "Is it this busy in the daytime as well?"
Feral looks pained. "I...suppose so."
Callie looks up at him. "Did I say something wrong, milord?"
"It's...It's nothing, Callie." Feral straightens up. "We should be going. We wouldn't want to miss the beginning, and I have seats in the balcony."
"I see..." Callie grips Feral's arm a little tighter, much to his delight. "You know, milord, you are acting like a typical Scorpio."
"Scorpio?"
Callie nods. "Kats born under the sign of the scorpion are intense, passionate, and filled with desire...much like a certain someone I know."
"Really..." Feral mulls this over. "I never thought of myself in those terms."
"And they are good terms, Ulysses."
**************************************************************
"My dear Lady...Wait."
In the darkened theater, Callie watches the play with rapt attention. Her opera glasses weren't used much, and she fanned herself occasionally.
Feral, meanwhile, was also enjoying the show. But, he couldn't help but sneak glances at Callie.
She truly was beautiful...and graceful. And, one of the most educated Ladies he had ever met besides his fellow dunpeals.
And she was Lord Briggs' daughter.
"The gods must have an ironic sense of humor." Feral thinks.
After a while, an intermission is signaled, and the theater raises the lights. Feral stands up to stretch
"Just who is this kidnapper?" Callie asks after she gets used to the lights.
"It looks like Ultrus Viegh...but I doubt it." Feral says.
Callie nods. "I do feel sorry for the heroine, though. Not being able to follow your heart due to society's differences."
Feral is silent for a moment. "Like...us?"
"Uncanny parallel, isn't it?"
"Yes, it is."
Callie smiles at him, and reaches upwards to hold Feral's paw. Again, it gives Feral a thrill. "Milord, I am finding out that what we may dream of might appear in very different ways."
"So, I'm guessing you weren't dreaming of a certain dunpeal to sweep you off your feet." Feral chuckles, sitting back down in his seat. "Nor did I expect to find you."
"Milord..." Callie closes her eyes somewhat.
Feral starts to lean forward to kiss her, but the bell that alerts patrons to return to the theater goes off, startling them both. Feral grumbles.
"Such impeccable timing..." Callie murmurs.
*****************************************************************
"What a cliffhanger! We just have to come back and see the second act."
Callie happily intertwines her claws with Feral's as they exit the theater with the crowd. This was the first time to hold paws, and Callie was happy with this small advance in their relationship. She was sure that his Lordship was surprised by this move.
"I will be happy to take you back to see it." Feral says, giving Callie's paw a squeeze. "Shall I send for my carriage, or would you like to walk about town?"
"Hmm...How about..."
A second later, Feral found himself being jerked backwards, all because Callie had stopped in her tracks, still holding his paw. The color had drained from her face.
"What's wrong?" Feral asks, concerned.
"...Steele..."
"Huh?"
"Steele!" Callie tightens her grip on Feral's paw and drags him back inside the theater.
"Who's Steele?" Feral asks.
Callie motions to a thin, blonde-haired kat that was standing in the square. "Lord Steele is the Order's second chair, and my father's second in command."
"What's he doing here? Isn't he supposed to be in Avalon?"
"That's what I thought. I have to tell you, he has contempt for dunpeals."
Feral says nothing, leaning against the wall. Callie continues to sigh.
"I may be bold, but I do not want Steele to see us together." Callie turns to Feral. "He can cause a lot of problems...for you and for me."
"...I understand." Feral traces the outline of Callie's face with his paw. "What do you want me to do?"
"You hail the carriage while I distract Steele. Hopefully, he'll leave."
Feral looks conflicted. Callie places a paw on Feral's face.
"I'll be fine. Don't worry about me."
****************************************************
A few minutes later, Callie walks out into the Square, both hoping and dreaded that Steele would see her. He does, and starts towards her. Callie begins to fan herself.
"Well, Well...If it isn't little Lady Briggs..." Steele does a small bow, and smiles at her. Callie inwardly shudders. "How nice to see you again."
"What are you doing here, Steele? Avoiding your duties in Avalon?" Callie continues to fan herself. "My father hates kats who don't pull their own weight."
Steele waves it off. "I can't believe I would have to catch you here. The place reeks with the smell of dunpeals. I'm surprised you can stand it."
"The only one that smells around here is you."
"Be that as it may...It disgusts me."
Callie rolls her eyes. Steele begins to smirk. "I wish you would drop this act, Calico. It's only a matter of time before your father arranges our marriage."
"What makes you think you have the inside track?" Callie snaps at him. "My father doesn't like two faced weasels like yourself."
"Really now. I heard that milady wasn't doing the Harvest Moon...because you are being so difficult." Steele leans in closer. "Soon Trenton will grow tired of your games...and arrange our marriage."
"You're crazy! How do you know my father will arrange my marriage to you when there are other Warlocks?"
"Because I am his Second in Command." Steele smiles. "You are entitled to me. And I *will* have you."
Callie's green eyes flash angrily. "I'd rather join a convent."
"Too late for *that*..."
Callie rears back and slaps Steele across the face, adding a bit of zap for impact. "You're just jealous that it wasn't you."
Steele's cheek turns red, and he glares at Callie as his carriage pulls up.
"Mark my words, Calico...when we are married, I will crush that fiery personality of yours." Steele says, climbing into the carriage. "I promise you that."
Callie maintains her composure until Steele's carriage pulls away...and then begins to shake.
*************************************************************
Later in his carriage, Feral feels his arm being clenched as Callie snuggles up against him. He wanted to know more about Steele, but Feral could sense Callie's distress. He sighs.
"I'm sorry, milord." Callie says quietly.
"Eh?" Feral straightens up a little.
"It was a wonderful night...until he showed up." Callie mutters.
"I enjoyed myself as well...but you don't have to apologize to me." Feral looks at her. "Is there anything I can do?"
"Short of war?"
Feral smiles a little. "Preferably."
Callie locks her eyes with his. "Marry me."
Feral sputters a little. "That would make it better?"
"I...would marry anyone but him." Callie looks away briefly, but then smiles at Feral. "But, as for us, it's much too soon in the Harvest Moon for that."
"Perhaps." Feral smiles at her. "But, is it too soon...for this?"
"Wha-"
Callie couldn't say anything more, since Feral leans forward to kiss her...
...and she didn't resist.
**************************************************************
"G-Good night, milord! Pleasant dreams!"
Callie bounds out of Feral's carriage, blushing, and enters Lee's manor. Lee, who was outside, could get a word in edge wise. She smiles.
"Well, Feral...I don't want to know what all you did in that carriage." Lee says as Feral exits the carriage.
"I'm glad she's happy again." Feral smiles.
"Again? What do you mean?"
Feral turns somber. "She had a run in with Lord Steele in Barole."
"He's here?" Lee almost shouts. "He's supposed to be in Avalon!"
"That's what she thought. But, who is this Steele?"
Lee sighs. "Come inside and I'll explain."
************************************************************
Later, Feral sits in Lee's sunroom, staring at the moon. Lee tends to a plant.
"Steele is a very ruthless kat, who feels that Callie is entitled to him." Lee says, concentrating on her plant. "I fear that if Trenton makes a decision regarding Callie, it will be Steele that he arranges the marriage to."
"Why does he feel that he's entitled to her?" Feral asks.
"I don't know, but he wouldn't respect her spirit...like you do."
Feral slumps. "If it didn't lead to war, I could have been out there for her!"
"Perhaps. But, you made her happy in the end, Ulysses. That's all that matters." Lee smiles. "So, why don't you start giving Callie her courtship gifts?"
"Gifts?"
"Come on, Ulysses...During the Harvest Moon, the Warlock gives the Sorceress a gift ever so often, up until the marriage proposal." Lee smiles. "So, what do you have in mind?"
"Hmm...Wait, I know!"
****************************************************************
Dear Diary,
I went to see The Tale of Ultrus Viegh with Ulysses tonight. I had a wonderful time, and looked forward to seeing the second act...until Lord Steele showed up.
Why is he here? I don't see how he can ditch his duties at any opportunity and still have my father like him. I don't like what he's doing. He will never have me, no matter how hard he tries.
On another note, Ulysses and I shared our first real kiss last night as well. Is this truly love that I feel for him right now? I know this is something different from what I had been feeling in my previous Harvest Moons. He and I are from two different worlds...
...But, I feel that if I pressed him, he would marry me to protect me from Steele.
Calico Briggs
******************************************************************
"Good morning, Countess."
"Good morning, dear. Have a nice rest?"
Callie nods, blushing as she pours herself a cup of tea. She had joined Lee for breakfast.
"Ulysses enjoyed last night as well." Lee smiles, stirring her tea. "Any plans for today?"
"Well, I planned to make a basket dinner for us so we can eat outside tonight." Callie says. "Any idea on what Ulysses likes to eat?"
"Hmm...Well, being an eastern kat, he likes sushi. Think you can make that?"
"I can. I took lessons while others were learning the arts." Callie smiles a little.
"Good." Lee thinks for a moment. "Unfortunately, I don't have all the necessary ingredients here. Why don't you take my carriage and go to Barole? They should have everything there."
"I will!" Callie stands up. "I've been wanting to shop there since I saw it!"
Lee laughs as one of her servants walks in with a wrapped package. "I have a present for Lady Briggs from Lord Feral."
"Thank you." Callie takes the package and takes off the attached note. She reads it:
Milady,
Countess told me that now would be a good time to start giving you your courtship gifts. I thought this gift would be appropriate.
It's a little unusual, but I thought this would best represent our relationship.
I look forward to seeing you tonight,
Ulysses Feral
"Unusual, huh?" Callie wastes no time opening the package. Inside was a miniature glass class. "Wow..."
"Ulysses certainly knows what he's doing." Lee says.
"I'll say."
Inside the glass case was five thin, black cocoons. Callie smiles. "The nocturnal Minuit butterfly. They are the only butterflies that develops according to the phases of the moon."
"They should emerge from their cocoons at the Half Moon Stage of the Harvest Moon." Lee takes a look.
"And, we can release them together..." Callie begins to blush.
"Yes...I think you'd better head out to Barole, dear. The crowds that form at noon are monstrous."
******************************************************************
That evening....
"Come inside, Ulysses. Calico's in the kitchen."
"...Kitchen?"
"I heard that!"
Feral raises an eyebrow at Lee as Callie emerges from the kitchen with a loaded basket. "What's this?"
"I thought we'd eat dinner outside tonight, so I made a basket." Callie lifts the basket up.
Feral raises his other eyebrow.
"If you're think that I'm some spoiled Lady that doesn't know how to cook and leaves it to the servants, think again!"
"I didn't say..."
Callie smirks at him. "Keep that up, and you won't get any sushi."
"Why didn't you say so!" Feral takes the basket out of Callie's paws. "I know the perfect spot."
"Great." Callie picks up a blanket. "Oh, and milord...."
"Hmm?"
Callie comes forward and gives him a kiss on the lips. "Thanks for the gift. I love it."
Feral blinks for a moment, and smiles.
"My pleasure."
*****************************************************************
Much later, Feral lays his head on Callie lap as they both take in the scenery.
Feral had chosen a spot on a small hill that gave a nice view of Lee's gardens. Illuminated by the light by the light of the moon, which gave the view it's own charm.
"I'm stuffed..." Feral says after a moment.
"Now do you believe that I can cook?" Callie laughs. "I would say yes, since you ate a good portion of the basket."
"Forgive me for doubting you." Feral looks up at her. "I thought Warlocks didn't want Sorceress doing such...domestic duties."
Callie thinks for a moment. "That is true. But, I was much too stubborn when I was being taught how to act like a 'proper' Lady. While others learned the arts, I learned other things. Like cooking, astronomy, and how to put an Omega Seal on the door so my parents couldn't get in."
Feral chuckles. "That's high level spell casting, right? Why is that being different?"
"They left that sort of casting to the Warlocks. But, I can beat the best of them."
"I see."
Callie begins to scratch Feral's ears, much to his delight. "Tell me, Ulysses...what made you the leader of the Coven?"
"You can trace my bloodlines to Thanatos."
"Thanatos?"
"Yes. The last vampire to ever live...and the father of all dunpeals." Feral stretches a bit. "I am more or less a direct descendant of him, which is why I lead."
"Really"
"I am the youngest to be selected, though...since I'm only 28." Feral continues.
"I see...Same as myself." Callie says. "I can trace my roots back to the monarchy, which is why Father is the leader of the Order. But, why are you so sensitive to the sun, and Countess Lee isn't?"
Feral's eyes cloud for a moment. "...Since I am more or less a pureblood, I have inherited the vampire's dislike of the sun. I won't die instantly, but I can perish from it with prolonged exposure."
Callie nods, still scratching his ears. Feral sighs.
"I never knew that I could actually end up hating that part of myself..."
"...Come again?"
"Never mind." Feral begins to smile. "Have you ever seen the moonset?"
"Moonset?" Callie blinks. "What's that?"
"We have sunrise and sunset. We also have the moonrise and the moonset." Feral says. "It's a pretty scene, especially during a full moon. You can actually see the moon giving way to sun."
"Wow...that must be some sight."
"Yes, it is."
Callie is silent for a moment. "Ulysses..."
"Hmm?"
"...I want to see the moonset."
"Alright. But, you'll have to stay up all night."
"It's okay. I want to see how the night is for you regardless."
Feral chuckles. "You know, milady, that you are acting more like a dunpeal to me than a Sorceress."
Callie thinks about that for a second, then smiles.
"Maybe...I am."
To be continued...
As the Harvest Moon progresses, both Lady Briggs and Lord Feral find similarities as well as differences about themselves. Will the similarities be able to overcome the differences? Also, Callie's situation with her father becomes dire when Lord Steele appears; ready to stake his claim to her. Why is Steele not in Avalon?
Author's note: Sorry for the delay!
Special thanks to KS Claw for the story Rping and to Renee Twist for the idea about Steele! That helps a lot.
As always, send any comments or questions to AkaneKitty@aol.com. Or, drop me a line in my review section at Fanfiction.net. Enjoy!
Ja ne,
AkaneKitty
************
Harvest Moon:
Silvery Moon
************
Dear Diary,
I gave my crystal to Lord Ulysses Feral...a dunpeal. Couldn't believe myself...but at least he talks about something other than wars. But, he is a lot of fun...and our courtship is far from being normal
I have to laugh whenever I think of that crystal. Mother said to take it because 'I might find a nice wandering Warlock'. Well, I found somebody, but not who she thinks.
Calico Briggs
****************************************************************
It had been two months since Calico had arrived at Lee's Manor, and had given Ulysses her crystal.
His Lordship has then split his time with courting Callie and dealing with his Council. From his new demeanor, gossip started about Feral courting a new Lady after all these years. But, they couldn't guess who his new Lady is.
And, Lee oversees it all...even to the point of covering for the new couple.
*************************************************************
"I win! You're too slow, Ulysses."
"...Three out of five?"
Callie laughs as she dismounts from Duzell. Feral and his steed finally reach them after a while. "Don't be such a sore loser, milord."
Feral smiles despite of himself. "I thought Ladies were supposed to ride sidesaddle. You don't."
"That's for riding short distances and flirting with your beau." Callie hands Duzell's reins to one of Lee's servants. "But, for racing, I ride like you."
"I see." Feral dismounts from his horse and hands the reins to the servants. "So, I'm not your beau?"
Callie smiles. "Can you race and flirt at the same time, milord?"
"You can between the taunts."
Callie laughs at this, and then clutches Feral's arm. "But, it is nice that you went riding with me. You've only come to see me sporadically here lately."
"I'm sorry. I've been attending quarterly meetings with my fellow dunpeals." Feral says as he escorts Callie into Lee's Manor.
"Meetings?"
"Yes. We have been discussing what to do about your father. He...still wants to fight over the disputed lands."
"He...just doesn't give up!" Callie's expression darkens. "All these years and he still wants to pick a fight with the dunpeals! He has no clue that the katizens favor you more. Even you gift of more lands didn't appease him!"
Feral looks at her. "You know that I gave lands to your father?"
Callie nods. "I thought it was very honorable for you to do that. Most warlock hold on to their lands with an iron grip. But, you..."
"Don't worry about it." Feral smiles at her, and runs a claw along her face. "Let me deal with your father, okay?"
"Alright..."
Feral clasps Callie's paws in his. "So, to make up for me not being here, why don't we catch a play tomorrow in town?"
"A show?" Callie asks. "Which town?"
"Barole. It's one of Lee's towns, so we won't look too out of place."
"Then I look forward to it, milord." Callie smiles at him, and then stifles a yawn. "Oh! Excuse my manners..."
Feral's expression looks sad for a moment, then brightens. "Then, go to your rest, milady."
Callie curtseys, and offers her paw to Feral. Feral accepts her paw and draws her closer to him.
"Oh..." Callie blushes.
"Am I being a bit forward, milady?"
"No." Callie smiles, still blushing. "Remember, it's a Lady's prerogative to speed up or slow down the Harvest Moon."
"Really? Well then..."
Feral leans forward, and gives Callie a kiss on the cheek. He then steps back and bows to her.
"Until tomorrow, Callie...Good night."
"...Good night." Callie, still blushing, curtseys again and then enters the manor.
Feral watches her go, and then enters the manor as well.
**************************************************************
A few minutes later, Feral joins Lee for tea in her study. Well, it mostly Lee drinking the tea. Feral barely touches his.
"What's wrong, Ulysses?" Lee asks, sipping her tea. "You seem quiet tonight...Did Callie's two out of three wins smash your ego?"
Feral smiles a little. "No...Matter of fact, I enjoyed that."
"Then, what's wrong?"
"Lee...I never thought that I could actually hate the night."
Lee places her teacup down. "Where did this some from?"
"Callie yawned tonight. I can't expect her to alter her schedule just to accommodate me." Feral looks down.
"It just sucks being nocturnal, doesn't it?"
"Tell me about it."
"Well, I'm sure Callie's enjoying herself." Lee says. "You're providing new experiences for her."
"I know." Feral says, still not touching his tea. "But..."
"Then don't worry about it. Concentrate on tomorrow's date." Lee commands. "You are going to see The Tale of Ultrus Viegh, are you not?"
"Yes."
"And, this will be the first time Callie will actually be inside your carriage."
Feral looks at her. Lee smiles.
"I'm sure she wouldn't want to go all the way to Barole sitting outside." Lee explains. "So, get your driver and ride inside."
"Ah..."
"Really, Ulysses...I didn't think I would have to tell you that."
************************************************************
Dear Diary,
Tomorrow night I will be attending a play with Ulysses. He didn't tell me the title, but it's an outing to make up for time he was away from me. Large fans and I finally get to use my formal gown! Good thing I packed it.
Speaking of which, it looks like my Father is in rare form. I don't get it. The Order and the Coven have been fighting over that same piece of land for years...and it doesn't matter to my Father that the dunpeals had it first. But, no matter. I will enjoy my first night in public with Ulysses.
By the way...Ulysses looked a bit sad after I yawned...Bad manners I know...But. I wonder why?
Calico Briggs
**************************************************************
The next night...
"Do you mind if I borrowed your opera glasses, Countess? I didn't think I would be needing them for my trip."
"Of course. I figured that you might need them. Take it."
Countess Lee casts an approving eye over Callie, who was taking Lee's opera glasses out of a jeweled case. She nods.
"You look lovely, dear." Lee says from her seat.
"Thank you." Callie spins around to show off her dress. "I am looking forward to being out in public with Ulysses...but, I am worried that word might get back to my father..."
"I wouldn't worry about it, dear." Lee stands up and walks up to Callie. "Barole is my town...and they are loyal to me. I doubt that I would have a spy in the midst."
"But..."
Lee lifts Callie's face with her paw. "Listen to your godmother: Enjoy yourself. Don't let worries about your father spoil your fun."
Callie nods, and the thundering of hooves are heard. Lee smiles. "I think that's your ride, Callie."
*****************************************************************
"Good evening, milord."
"Good evening."
Callie curtseys as Feral bows to her after he steps down from the carriage. She then notices a driver. "A driver tonight?"
"Hmm? Oh, yes. It isn't very far to Barole, but it wouldn't be very comfortable riding outside." Feral looks at her. "...Is this alright, milady?"
Callie smiles at him and extends her paw to Feral. "Of course."
Feral takes Callie paw and helps her into his carriage. He was about to climb in after her when Lee appears on her balcony. She calls to him.
"I want her back before sunrise, young kat!" Lee says.
"I will Countess!"
*************************************************************
"Nice interior."
"Thank you."
Callie begins to fan herself as she settles into the carriage's plush seats. Feral sits across from her, with his large frame filling the space. Callie looks at him.
"Why are you staying over there?" Callie asks, continuing to fan herself.
Feral crosses his legs. "I did not want to invade milady's personal space."
"Milord, you can be entirely too cautious."
Feral blinks at that. "Really?"
"Yes." Callie smiles. "So, which show are we seeing tonight?"
"The first act of The Tale of Ultrus Viegh." Feral says.
"What's it about?"
"It's the tale of two very different kats falling in love amongst the chaos of a crisis."
"Sounds romantic."
"I hear from my friends that it is." Feral says. "They recommend it highly."
"I see." Callie stops fanning herself for a moment.
"So, get comfortable, milady." Feral sits back. "And enjoy yourself."
"Milord..."
"Hmm?"
Callie peers at Feral through her fan. "Does the she-kat you hold in your heart differ from reality?"
"Differ?" Feral blinks. "I don't understand."
"...It's nothing, milord." Callie begins to fan herself again. "Forgive me for saying such strange things"
Feral looks at her, and sits back in his seat again.
*****************************************************************
"So this is Barole? It's lovely!"
Callie looks in awe at the bustling nightlife of the town as Feral helps her out of the carriage. Various kats and she-kats were milling about town, visiting various shops and stores. Callie links arms with him.
"Barole is mostly an entertainment town. Dunpeals such as myself frequent it." Feral says as he leads Callie down a paved street.
"Really?" Callie's eyes dance at the possibility of visiting all the shops. "Is it this busy in the daytime as well?"
Feral looks pained. "I...suppose so."
Callie looks up at him. "Did I say something wrong, milord?"
"It's...It's nothing, Callie." Feral straightens up. "We should be going. We wouldn't want to miss the beginning, and I have seats in the balcony."
"I see..." Callie grips Feral's arm a little tighter, much to his delight. "You know, milord, you are acting like a typical Scorpio."
"Scorpio?"
Callie nods. "Kats born under the sign of the scorpion are intense, passionate, and filled with desire...much like a certain someone I know."
"Really..." Feral mulls this over. "I never thought of myself in those terms."
"And they are good terms, Ulysses."
**************************************************************
"My dear Lady...Wait."
In the darkened theater, Callie watches the play with rapt attention. Her opera glasses weren't used much, and she fanned herself occasionally.
Feral, meanwhile, was also enjoying the show. But, he couldn't help but sneak glances at Callie.
She truly was beautiful...and graceful. And, one of the most educated Ladies he had ever met besides his fellow dunpeals.
And she was Lord Briggs' daughter.
"The gods must have an ironic sense of humor." Feral thinks.
After a while, an intermission is signaled, and the theater raises the lights. Feral stands up to stretch
"Just who is this kidnapper?" Callie asks after she gets used to the lights.
"It looks like Ultrus Viegh...but I doubt it." Feral says.
Callie nods. "I do feel sorry for the heroine, though. Not being able to follow your heart due to society's differences."
Feral is silent for a moment. "Like...us?"
"Uncanny parallel, isn't it?"
"Yes, it is."
Callie smiles at him, and reaches upwards to hold Feral's paw. Again, it gives Feral a thrill. "Milord, I am finding out that what we may dream of might appear in very different ways."
"So, I'm guessing you weren't dreaming of a certain dunpeal to sweep you off your feet." Feral chuckles, sitting back down in his seat. "Nor did I expect to find you."
"Milord..." Callie closes her eyes somewhat.
Feral starts to lean forward to kiss her, but the bell that alerts patrons to return to the theater goes off, startling them both. Feral grumbles.
"Such impeccable timing..." Callie murmurs.
*****************************************************************
"What a cliffhanger! We just have to come back and see the second act."
Callie happily intertwines her claws with Feral's as they exit the theater with the crowd. This was the first time to hold paws, and Callie was happy with this small advance in their relationship. She was sure that his Lordship was surprised by this move.
"I will be happy to take you back to see it." Feral says, giving Callie's paw a squeeze. "Shall I send for my carriage, or would you like to walk about town?"
"Hmm...How about..."
A second later, Feral found himself being jerked backwards, all because Callie had stopped in her tracks, still holding his paw. The color had drained from her face.
"What's wrong?" Feral asks, concerned.
"...Steele..."
"Huh?"
"Steele!" Callie tightens her grip on Feral's paw and drags him back inside the theater.
"Who's Steele?" Feral asks.
Callie motions to a thin, blonde-haired kat that was standing in the square. "Lord Steele is the Order's second chair, and my father's second in command."
"What's he doing here? Isn't he supposed to be in Avalon?"
"That's what I thought. I have to tell you, he has contempt for dunpeals."
Feral says nothing, leaning against the wall. Callie continues to sigh.
"I may be bold, but I do not want Steele to see us together." Callie turns to Feral. "He can cause a lot of problems...for you and for me."
"...I understand." Feral traces the outline of Callie's face with his paw. "What do you want me to do?"
"You hail the carriage while I distract Steele. Hopefully, he'll leave."
Feral looks conflicted. Callie places a paw on Feral's face.
"I'll be fine. Don't worry about me."
****************************************************
A few minutes later, Callie walks out into the Square, both hoping and dreaded that Steele would see her. He does, and starts towards her. Callie begins to fan herself.
"Well, Well...If it isn't little Lady Briggs..." Steele does a small bow, and smiles at her. Callie inwardly shudders. "How nice to see you again."
"What are you doing here, Steele? Avoiding your duties in Avalon?" Callie continues to fan herself. "My father hates kats who don't pull their own weight."
Steele waves it off. "I can't believe I would have to catch you here. The place reeks with the smell of dunpeals. I'm surprised you can stand it."
"The only one that smells around here is you."
"Be that as it may...It disgusts me."
Callie rolls her eyes. Steele begins to smirk. "I wish you would drop this act, Calico. It's only a matter of time before your father arranges our marriage."
"What makes you think you have the inside track?" Callie snaps at him. "My father doesn't like two faced weasels like yourself."
"Really now. I heard that milady wasn't doing the Harvest Moon...because you are being so difficult." Steele leans in closer. "Soon Trenton will grow tired of your games...and arrange our marriage."
"You're crazy! How do you know my father will arrange my marriage to you when there are other Warlocks?"
"Because I am his Second in Command." Steele smiles. "You are entitled to me. And I *will* have you."
Callie's green eyes flash angrily. "I'd rather join a convent."
"Too late for *that*..."
Callie rears back and slaps Steele across the face, adding a bit of zap for impact. "You're just jealous that it wasn't you."
Steele's cheek turns red, and he glares at Callie as his carriage pulls up.
"Mark my words, Calico...when we are married, I will crush that fiery personality of yours." Steele says, climbing into the carriage. "I promise you that."
Callie maintains her composure until Steele's carriage pulls away...and then begins to shake.
*************************************************************
Later in his carriage, Feral feels his arm being clenched as Callie snuggles up against him. He wanted to know more about Steele, but Feral could sense Callie's distress. He sighs.
"I'm sorry, milord." Callie says quietly.
"Eh?" Feral straightens up a little.
"It was a wonderful night...until he showed up." Callie mutters.
"I enjoyed myself as well...but you don't have to apologize to me." Feral looks at her. "Is there anything I can do?"
"Short of war?"
Feral smiles a little. "Preferably."
Callie locks her eyes with his. "Marry me."
Feral sputters a little. "That would make it better?"
"I...would marry anyone but him." Callie looks away briefly, but then smiles at Feral. "But, as for us, it's much too soon in the Harvest Moon for that."
"Perhaps." Feral smiles at her. "But, is it too soon...for this?"
"Wha-"
Callie couldn't say anything more, since Feral leans forward to kiss her...
...and she didn't resist.
**************************************************************
"G-Good night, milord! Pleasant dreams!"
Callie bounds out of Feral's carriage, blushing, and enters Lee's manor. Lee, who was outside, could get a word in edge wise. She smiles.
"Well, Feral...I don't want to know what all you did in that carriage." Lee says as Feral exits the carriage.
"I'm glad she's happy again." Feral smiles.
"Again? What do you mean?"
Feral turns somber. "She had a run in with Lord Steele in Barole."
"He's here?" Lee almost shouts. "He's supposed to be in Avalon!"
"That's what she thought. But, who is this Steele?"
Lee sighs. "Come inside and I'll explain."
************************************************************
Later, Feral sits in Lee's sunroom, staring at the moon. Lee tends to a plant.
"Steele is a very ruthless kat, who feels that Callie is entitled to him." Lee says, concentrating on her plant. "I fear that if Trenton makes a decision regarding Callie, it will be Steele that he arranges the marriage to."
"Why does he feel that he's entitled to her?" Feral asks.
"I don't know, but he wouldn't respect her spirit...like you do."
Feral slumps. "If it didn't lead to war, I could have been out there for her!"
"Perhaps. But, you made her happy in the end, Ulysses. That's all that matters." Lee smiles. "So, why don't you start giving Callie her courtship gifts?"
"Gifts?"
"Come on, Ulysses...During the Harvest Moon, the Warlock gives the Sorceress a gift ever so often, up until the marriage proposal." Lee smiles. "So, what do you have in mind?"
"Hmm...Wait, I know!"
****************************************************************
Dear Diary,
I went to see The Tale of Ultrus Viegh with Ulysses tonight. I had a wonderful time, and looked forward to seeing the second act...until Lord Steele showed up.
Why is he here? I don't see how he can ditch his duties at any opportunity and still have my father like him. I don't like what he's doing. He will never have me, no matter how hard he tries.
On another note, Ulysses and I shared our first real kiss last night as well. Is this truly love that I feel for him right now? I know this is something different from what I had been feeling in my previous Harvest Moons. He and I are from two different worlds...
...But, I feel that if I pressed him, he would marry me to protect me from Steele.
Calico Briggs
******************************************************************
"Good morning, Countess."
"Good morning, dear. Have a nice rest?"
Callie nods, blushing as she pours herself a cup of tea. She had joined Lee for breakfast.
"Ulysses enjoyed last night as well." Lee smiles, stirring her tea. "Any plans for today?"
"Well, I planned to make a basket dinner for us so we can eat outside tonight." Callie says. "Any idea on what Ulysses likes to eat?"
"Hmm...Well, being an eastern kat, he likes sushi. Think you can make that?"
"I can. I took lessons while others were learning the arts." Callie smiles a little.
"Good." Lee thinks for a moment. "Unfortunately, I don't have all the necessary ingredients here. Why don't you take my carriage and go to Barole? They should have everything there."
"I will!" Callie stands up. "I've been wanting to shop there since I saw it!"
Lee laughs as one of her servants walks in with a wrapped package. "I have a present for Lady Briggs from Lord Feral."
"Thank you." Callie takes the package and takes off the attached note. She reads it:
Milady,
Countess told me that now would be a good time to start giving you your courtship gifts. I thought this gift would be appropriate.
It's a little unusual, but I thought this would best represent our relationship.
I look forward to seeing you tonight,
Ulysses Feral
"Unusual, huh?" Callie wastes no time opening the package. Inside was a miniature glass class. "Wow..."
"Ulysses certainly knows what he's doing." Lee says.
"I'll say."
Inside the glass case was five thin, black cocoons. Callie smiles. "The nocturnal Minuit butterfly. They are the only butterflies that develops according to the phases of the moon."
"They should emerge from their cocoons at the Half Moon Stage of the Harvest Moon." Lee takes a look.
"And, we can release them together..." Callie begins to blush.
"Yes...I think you'd better head out to Barole, dear. The crowds that form at noon are monstrous."
******************************************************************
That evening....
"Come inside, Ulysses. Calico's in the kitchen."
"...Kitchen?"
"I heard that!"
Feral raises an eyebrow at Lee as Callie emerges from the kitchen with a loaded basket. "What's this?"
"I thought we'd eat dinner outside tonight, so I made a basket." Callie lifts the basket up.
Feral raises his other eyebrow.
"If you're think that I'm some spoiled Lady that doesn't know how to cook and leaves it to the servants, think again!"
"I didn't say..."
Callie smirks at him. "Keep that up, and you won't get any sushi."
"Why didn't you say so!" Feral takes the basket out of Callie's paws. "I know the perfect spot."
"Great." Callie picks up a blanket. "Oh, and milord...."
"Hmm?"
Callie comes forward and gives him a kiss on the lips. "Thanks for the gift. I love it."
Feral blinks for a moment, and smiles.
"My pleasure."
*****************************************************************
Much later, Feral lays his head on Callie lap as they both take in the scenery.
Feral had chosen a spot on a small hill that gave a nice view of Lee's gardens. Illuminated by the light by the light of the moon, which gave the view it's own charm.
"I'm stuffed..." Feral says after a moment.
"Now do you believe that I can cook?" Callie laughs. "I would say yes, since you ate a good portion of the basket."
"Forgive me for doubting you." Feral looks up at her. "I thought Warlocks didn't want Sorceress doing such...domestic duties."
Callie thinks for a moment. "That is true. But, I was much too stubborn when I was being taught how to act like a 'proper' Lady. While others learned the arts, I learned other things. Like cooking, astronomy, and how to put an Omega Seal on the door so my parents couldn't get in."
Feral chuckles. "That's high level spell casting, right? Why is that being different?"
"They left that sort of casting to the Warlocks. But, I can beat the best of them."
"I see."
Callie begins to scratch Feral's ears, much to his delight. "Tell me, Ulysses...what made you the leader of the Coven?"
"You can trace my bloodlines to Thanatos."
"Thanatos?"
"Yes. The last vampire to ever live...and the father of all dunpeals." Feral stretches a bit. "I am more or less a direct descendant of him, which is why I lead."
"Really"
"I am the youngest to be selected, though...since I'm only 28." Feral continues.
"I see...Same as myself." Callie says. "I can trace my roots back to the monarchy, which is why Father is the leader of the Order. But, why are you so sensitive to the sun, and Countess Lee isn't?"
Feral's eyes cloud for a moment. "...Since I am more or less a pureblood, I have inherited the vampire's dislike of the sun. I won't die instantly, but I can perish from it with prolonged exposure."
Callie nods, still scratching his ears. Feral sighs.
"I never knew that I could actually end up hating that part of myself..."
"...Come again?"
"Never mind." Feral begins to smile. "Have you ever seen the moonset?"
"Moonset?" Callie blinks. "What's that?"
"We have sunrise and sunset. We also have the moonrise and the moonset." Feral says. "It's a pretty scene, especially during a full moon. You can actually see the moon giving way to sun."
"Wow...that must be some sight."
"Yes, it is."
Callie is silent for a moment. "Ulysses..."
"Hmm?"
"...I want to see the moonset."
"Alright. But, you'll have to stay up all night."
"It's okay. I want to see how the night is for you regardless."
Feral chuckles. "You know, milady, that you are acting more like a dunpeal to me than a Sorceress."
Callie thinks about that for a second, then smiles.
"Maybe...I am."
To be continued...
