Disclaimer: Look at first chapter
A/N: I just realised a little mistake. Actually, it's kinda big. Do ignore the fact that I set this story on the day of Tamara's Party. It can be anytime before that. Sorry!
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MELIARA's POV
I could not believe my luck! Bad luck, that is. Not only did I have to injure myself, I now had to rely on Shevraeth for assistance. Burn it! He was carrying me! My foolhardiness at trying to ride alone nearly caused me even more harm, but Shevraeth's steadying arm was rescue enough.
I could not help but admire - grudgingly - his strength, both physically and mentally. From our past encounters, I had deduced that he was a man who could succeed even under great pressure and adversity. This was proof of mental strength. His grace and skill at the blade and horse riding spoke of physical strength. The muscles that had rippled under my hand were also evidence.
But did he have strength of heart and soul?
From what I'd observed, he seemed to have that in plenty. According to Renna, Trishe and the others, he had never taken a lover or paired up with anyone. Or if he did, he did it in secret. "It never went past a flirtation," Trishe had said with a flutter of her fan.
But how did he resist all the beautiful women of court? Lady Tamara, most of all. Even the blind could see her working her charms on him at every opportunity she got. The coy smile, the fluttering fan, the batting eyelashes. That was more than enough to make me roll my eyes in disgust. How did he manage to be impervious to it all?
I bet she'd kill to be in my position. Not that any young lady of marriageable age wouldn't. Come to think of it, I didn't really mind being here right now. I mean this man saved my life twice! It was safe to say that he intended me no harm.
However, I did find the closeness of our persons slightly disconcerting. It didn't help that our wet clothes were practically insubstantial at the moment. I could feel his smooth, broad chest pressed against my side, warming me. I couldn't help but shiver when a breeze blew past, and sensed his arms tightening around me as I pulled myself closer towards him. Wait a second, what was I doing?
"My intentions are pure," he had said. 'Purity of Intent', a white rose. Was it just a coincidence?
I admired his profile as we traversed the empty hallways, the straight nose, and grey eyes, curved lips and winged brows. Attracting the ladies would be as easy as pie for him. Don't get me wrong, he wasn't gorgeous or anything, just attractive and intriguing in a subtle way. This made him seem more humane, I guess.
The few servants we bumped into along the way tittered noisily once they had passed us, thinking that we were out of earshot. This would be all over Athanarel before they day was done.
I could even imagine what would be said: "Preposterous! I heard they were both close to nakedness, with their arms wrapped around each other," one would say.
"Oh my, this is scandalous indeed! Who would've thought? The little Tlanth Countess and the Marquis of Shevraeth," another would add.
"This all sounds like rubbish to me," a third would reply, "It is a known fact that they aren't on very good terms."
We arrived at the sitting room and he placed me gently down on a couch meant for reclining upon as it had only one backing at an end. He then ordered for some listerblossom tea and a set of dry clothes for me before disappearing for a moment, returning with a fluffy warm towel to dry myself with. By now, he had already changed into his usual attire of black. Even his wet hair had been towelled dry.
"Here."
I took the offered towel with a word of thanks and began drying my face and hair. Two maids came in a moment later with a simple gown of sky blue silk and a pot of listerblossom tea. They helped me into the dress after Shevraeth had excused himself, sending knowing smiles at one another. My hair was brushed out and left to hang loose, enabling it to dry. They then curtsied silently and left, leaving me all alone in Shevraeth's sitting room.
My foot still hurt, but the bleeding seemed to have stopped. The door creaked open and Shevraeth entered with a middle-aged woman with a Healer's Sigil stitched on the breast of her robe just as I was sipping at my cup of tea. I hastily replaced it on the table and smiled at the newcomer as she bustled over to my injured foot and began examining it after removing the makeshift bandage.
"I'm Mistress Kylar," she introduced herself. "This doesn't seem too bad. I'll just clean it up and bandage it with some herbs. The wound should close in a few days time if you stay off your feet."
That said she opened the satchel that she had carried with her and began opening packets of leaves and flowers and pouring their contents into a small cloth pouch.
"May I be of help, Mistress Kylar?" asked Shevraeth as he looked on.
"You could help the lady clean her wound," replied Mistress Kylar, gesturing to a steaming basin of water. I would have protested, but the look he sent my way made me fall silent. It was look of determination and worry.
He nodded and picked up the small towel that lay beside it, immersed it in the warm water and gently wiped away the blood from my wound with one hand as the other held my foot by the ankle, making my skin tingle. "You do remember Mistress Kylar?" he asked without looking up.
"The name does sound familiar," I murmured before coming to a revelation, "You're the one who treated me after my foot got caught in the trap!"
Mistress Kylar laughed softly as she completed her task of filling the cloth pouch with dried leaves. "Indeed. It seems that this foot of yours and I are fated to meet," she said.
The corners of Shevraeth's mouth deepened in his trademark smile of sorts, and his eyes showed true humour when he looked at me. Time seemed to stand still for a moment as our gazes locked. For once he seemed approachable, adorable even. His hair was still damp and slightly tousled although it had been tied back, his hands gentle and soothing on my injured foot, his eyes a whirl of emotion.
Then I blinked, breaking the spell. Hoping that Mistress Kylar had not noticed the lapse, I replied, "Hopefully, this is the last you'll see of it."
She nodded, indicating for Shevraeth to move out of the way. He picked up the basin and towel after putting my foot down on the couch and left the room. With gentle fingers, Mistress Kylar applied some ointment to my open wound and placed the pouch of herbs over it, securing it with a bandage.
"You are a lucky woman, Lady Meliara," she said, making conversation.
I looked at her in surprise. "What do you mean? I certainly don't consider getting myself injured 'lucky'," I replied.
She looked puzzled, "I didn't mean your injury but the relationship you share with the Marquis."
My eyes grew wide with disbelief. What had I done anything to make her think such? I had thought that I was just being civil towards Shevraeth!
"The Marquis and I are just associates, nothing more. What relationship did you think we have?" I asked, hoping that she just thought we were close friends - far from the truth though that may be.
She discovered that she had made a mistake and hastily apologised. "I apologise for the misunderstanding, I had thought that you and the Marquis were twoing, seeing that you two seem to get along so well and are so comfortable in each other's company."
Shevraeth and I. Getting along well?
"You seem to know him pretty well," I commented.
"We've worked together a couple of times, and he has never failed to prove that he is a capable leader who earns the respect of his men with ease. I'd wager he earns the attentions of ladies as easily!" She laughed easily at her own joke.
I smiled weakly.
She continued, "I know many a young healer who is enamoured of him. They would get in to a tizzy when he walked past, sighing and swooning and all that. But they know their place and stay out of his way. Besides, danger lurks in every corner on the field, one is hard pressed to find time for twoing."
When the job was done, she wiped her hands on the front of her robe, rose and began packing her things.
"That will be all for today, Lady Meliara. I have asked for a sleep draught to be brought up and will see you tomorrow. Send for me at whatever time suits you. My Lord." With a nod in Shevraeth's direction as he re-entered the room, she bowed and left.
"Shall I send for your brother, Lady Meliara?" asked Shevraeth.
"That isn't necessary, I'll just write him a note after I return to my rooms." I shifted my foot into a more comfortable position. "How shall I return?" I asked, sipping at the sleep draught.
"You can stay here if you like, at least after you've drank the sleep draught and slept. I will send for a carriage later."
"Wouldn't it be better if I returned to my own rooms and slept there instead?" I queried, fearful that the servants would misconstrue my staying here. If Mistress Kylar could jump to conclusions, couldn't they all be doing the same?
"If you are afraid of imposing, Lady Meliara. I assure you that this is no trouble at all," assured Shevraeth.
"No, that wasn't what I meant -" I started to say, but the sleep draught was beginning to take effect and I felt my eyelids grow heavy. Stifling a yawn I said, "Thank you," and promptly fell asleep.
And I dreamed. I dreamed about being at a wedding, with me as the bride! I was walking down the aisle and there were people everywhere. They were all smiling and bowing or curtsying, and I smiled in return, nodding my head at them in return. Bran was at my side escorting me down the aisle, beaming from ear to ear. At the end a bright light shone, obscuring from view the face of my husband-to-be.
When I arrived at his side, however, I was shocked to discover that he was none other than Shevraeth! My dream self smiled blissfully at him and slid her arm into his. The ceremony went through smoothly, although my sense of sight and sound was distorted. I seemed to be looking through a glass sphere and sounds echoed through my head. When it was time to kiss the bride, he brushed away a lock of my hair and placed his hand against my cheek, cupping it, lowered his head and kissed me!
The warmth of his hand felt real, I could even smell his masculine scent. The brush of his lips against mine felt real too. Dreams aren't real. You don't feel anything in dreams do you? But that kiss felt amazing - real or not. But it was from Shevraeth! What did it all mean?
My eyelids fluttered open as I awoke from that dream, and I stretched languidly, a smile spreading over my face. A warm blanket covered me and I threw it off impatiently. A quick look around showed that I was not alone. Shevraeth lounged nearby in an armchair with a thoughtful yet worried look upon his face, a steaming pot of hot chocolate in front of him.
Had he been watching me sleep all this while?
"What time is it?" I asked groggily.
He started when I spoke, running a hand nervously through his hair. I had never seen him this way before - ruffled. Had something happened while I was asleep?
He eyes darted a look at me before dropping to his hands that were now pouring me a cup of hot chocolate. "It's nearly dinnertime. I've ordered dinner to be brought up for us. That is, if you don't mind dining with me?" he asked, unsure.
A prickling sensation crept down my spine. Why was Shevraeth - of all people, inviting me to spend time with him alone? This was not the first time either: there was the horse riding, the picnic, the invitation to sleep over and now the request that I stay for dinner. All these were or will be done with him. Alone.
Then there was that dream.
"Uh - I really think I should go," I said.
He did not miss the urgency in my voice, and replied, "As you wish." Did I sense disappointment in those grey eyes?
Just at that moment, Savona burst into the room, a devilish grin on his face. "Danric! I was looking all over for you. I hope you don't mind, but I ordered my dinner to be brought up here, there is something I need to discuss with you." He looked up just then to see me reclining on the couch.
A mischievous spark in his eyes was clouded by suspicion. "Meliara! I'm not interrupting anything, am I?" he asked looking from Shevraeth to me and back to Shevraeth again pointedly.
"No, Russav. Lady Meliara was just saying that she'd like to return to her rooms," said Vidanric with what would be an irritated glare - at his cousin - for him. "And do knock before entering. Its only basic courtesy."
"Who in the world would knock when the woman of his dreams is on a rendezvous with another man?" retorted Savona, "Especially, if that man is his own cousin!" he crossed his arms over his chest in indignation.
Something passed between them. Savona was mock angry as a grin tugged at his lips. Shevraeth looked slightly annoyed at his cousin, sending him yet another glare that I could not read.
"This isn't a rendezvous, Savona," I said with a sigh. "I had hurt myself and Shevraeth kindly provided me with much needed assistance." It wasn't the whole truth, but it was true enough. "I should really leave now. Enjoy your dinner, gentlemen," I said with a nod of my head, and attempted to stand with much difficulty.
I had almost succeeded when Shevraeth appeared at my side and supported me by my arm. "I'll escort you to your rooms once I've summoned for the carriage." Savona looked amused at his cousin's concern and winked at me over Shevraeth's shoulder. I looked at him puzzledly.
"It would be better if you stayed for dinner, Lady Meliara," said Savona; "You have no idea how dull it is having dinner with my esteemed cousin." He added a "Please?" for good measure.
"Oh, all right," I replied reluctantly, "But I'll leave immediately after dinner." Pausing to settle myself down on the couch again with Shevraeth's help, I smiled gratefully at him.
Savona remained strangely silent throughout dinner, choosing to watch us instead. Our conversation was awkward at times, but then, Savona would say something that would relieve the tension.
Savona was the first to finish his dinner, long before the two of us. "Sorry, but I just remembered that I had something to attend to," he said, wiping the corners of his mouth with a napkin as he rose from his seat.
"I thought you had something to discuss with Shevraeth?" I asked.
He gave us that mischievous look again and said, "Oh, it can wait. He seems to be preoccupied with his dinner and the wo -," he caught himself in mid- sentence, "The work of the kingdom."
Shevraeth looked up from his plate slowly, calmly assessing his cousin. "Is that all, Russav? If it is, I'll see you, later tonight." Savona tipped an imaginary hat at the both of us and left the room.
"Forgive my cousin, he enjoys mischief, mystery and meddling," apologised Shevraeth, his hands now wrapped around his goblet.
"It's all right. I personally feel that he is very adept in lightening the mood, considering that I'm not in a very good one after hurting my foot," I said with a grimace.
"It'll heal in time," he replied with a kind smile. "Has your stay been comfortable so far, Lady Meliara?" He changed the subject.
"It's been a pleasure!" I enthused as I took a sip of wine. "I've made many friends - and found many swains," I added with a laugh. Why was I discussing swains with Shevraeth? But it was too late to swallow my words.
His grey eyes seemed to darken for a moment before he asked; "I take it that you're enjoying yourself, then?"
"Very much so. In truth, I did not expect to gain much from my visit here. But apparently I've been to quick to judge yet again." I shook my head when I remembered my foolishness in the past year.
"Being quick to judge is not an entirely bad thing. Your judgement can be considered a hypothesis of sorts since it often prepares you for the results. In this case, your hypothesis just happens to be partially wrong."
I looked at his open face. There was no hint of malice or ill intent, just a faint smile that invited me to join in his mirth.
"Partially wrong?" I asked.
"You were right about us being 'court decorations' as we are often watched and admired or looked down upon," he raised his goblet in a salute to me. "But we do serve our purposes."
Funny, he seemed to be inviting me to make conversation? Was this not an opportune time for me to scout out his plans for the kingdom? And whether or not he would make a good king?
"What purpose do you serve, then? Asides from being a 'court decoration' of course," I added jokingly.
"I serve many purposes but my goal remains the same: to ensure the prosperity of Remalna. My purpose in life is unclear to me as I'm sure yours is to you, but my immediate purpose is to be 'there' for my loved ones and kingdom at all times. A mighty albeit common purpose to be sure, yet a difficult one to fulfil."
"Difficult? Few people doubt your ability to balance your family and work, Shevraeth."
"Are you one of those few?" he countered, not looking me in the eye but over my right shoulder. I fell silent for a while, gathering my thoughts.
"Regardless of whether or not I - or anyone else for that matter - deem you fit of balancing family and work, Shevraeth; it all depends on whether you believe in yourself and consider yourself worthy. Confidence is half the battle won."
He smiled at my little motivating speech. "I see that you've become quite a philosopher, Lady Meliara." This was said in slow, quiet tones.
I blushed at his praise. "It's just something which has been a part of me for so long, I guess. I was brought up to believe that anything is possible so long as you have faith and conviction. It matters not if you fail or succeed in the end. All that matters is that you've given it your best effort and will persevere for as long as possible."
"You speak of love and war." A quirk of his mouth displayed a disarming smile.
"All is fair in love and war," I recited the well-known quote, "But how does this relate to what I've just said?"
"They both require 'faith and conviction'," he quoted me with a grin, "Not forgetting confidence in oneself."
Did he have a double meaning behind those words? Was he mocking me for losing the war - in a sense - and lacking a lover? Not that I cared for the latter.
"It depends. Love and war are games played by two or more people. Often, the results affect a great many more innocent bystanders, directly or otherwise. This is due to the fact that our personal faith and conviction are usually biased and may bring pain and suffering to others. The only way to avoid such a scenario is to compromise," I said contemplatively, twirling a lock of hair around my finger.
"But it takes two hands to clap," he rebutted easily, "If the other party is unwilling to compromise, should one continue to rely on his 'faith and conviction' to reach his goal?"
Shevraeth sat back in his seat, waiting for my answer, his head resting on the tips of his fingers, now forming an inverted 'v' shape.
"He should, only after he has made his intentions clear. Then, mutual trust will be nurtured between all parties. Isn't trust a vital part of faith and the basis of all that is good?" I spooned a piece of dessert into my mouth.
He nodded, deep in thought. "Would it be all right if trust was fostered before declarations are made?"
"It makes no difference so long as the result is beneficial to all," I acceded with an inclination of my head.
"Do you mean then, that a general should allow his soldiers to play a part in the planning of a war campaign to ensure their devotion to their land before declaring war? As a kingdom should build up diplomatic ties before declaring that peace reigns throughout? And as a lover should invite who he considers his significant other to participate willingly in a relationship before declaring his undying love?"
Shevraeth leaned forward in earnest as he spoke, his eyes bright, as if he had discovered some new knowledge that fascinated him to no end. His many examples were making my mind whirl or I might have drunk too much wine. I blinked once then twice before replying, "You could put it that way."
We had both finished our meals and he rose with liquid grace from his seat as he said, "Then you agree with me, Lady Meliara that mutual trust can be cultivated without a declaration of intentions?" he continued, not allowing me to speak, "And does this not mean that personal faith and conviction - biased though they may be - are vital to the achieving of one's goals?" Pausing for breath, he said, "Men are selfish creatures. We are biased but our goals hardly change. Then again, men with faith and conviction are also determined creatures. We will do all in our power to achieve our goals."
I laughed nervously, momentarily confused by what he had just said. "Your argument confuses me, Shevraeth. But it also makes much sense. However, I still believe that laying out the truth is the best method to create trust as it moves swiftly and is undeniable by all."
By now, he was only standing a short distance away from me. "Your faith in your convictions are admirable, Lady Meliara." He gave smart albeit small salute, signalling the end of our discussion and once again assisted me out of my seat. "I take it that you'd like to leave immediately?"
"If it isn't too much trouble," I said with as much calm I could summon. Inside, my mind was attempting to dissect the conversation we had just had. I had strayed from my purpose, or had I not? His words seemed to hold a million meanings, many of which I failed to decipher.
"It has all been arranged," he said with an elegant bow, his court mask secure upon his face once again.
Just then, his manservant Kervan came in and informed us that the carriage was ready.
"If I may?" asked Shevraeth, extending his arms towards me. He intended to carry me down himself!
I looked helplessly at Kervan, hoping that he would suggest doing the job himself. But he stood by passively. Left with no other choice, I raised my arms to be carried by the Marquis of Shveraeth, and could once again feel the heat emanating from his body envelope me.
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A/N: YAY! Another chapter done! This is uber long, nearly 4000 words, if I say so myself. Thanks to Eunice - eutan - for beta reading it for me and giving suggestions. Do check out her fic "In My Dreams" in the CCD section! So, the big QUESTION: Did he or did he not kiss her? If yes, where? You guys are smart enough to know where this is going, right?
I had a rather hard time writing their conversation at the end considering that it got me confused too! Whoever manages to successfully decipher whatever it was about gets a prize! *Just kidding* Anyway, I hope you guys enjoy this chapter and give me a LONG review. I love LONG reviews. Get the hint?
There are only THREE entries in the contest so far! Where have all the rest of you gone to? Dayna and Liz, Deliandery, Phaerie, Danric-lover, Slipper- rose? That is 5 more entries if you guys write. Please do it soon! Here I am slaving away at the computer and there you are giving me reviews - which are very much appreciated and enjoyed - without writing your own fics!
Thanks to all reviewers!
Fairydust123: I'm definite that a duke is higher than a marquis. Go to dictionary.com for the definition. No offence, but I do my work before writing anything in an attempt to keep mistakes to a minimum. Heehee!
Love, Felicia
A/N: I just realised a little mistake. Actually, it's kinda big. Do ignore the fact that I set this story on the day of Tamara's Party. It can be anytime before that. Sorry!
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MELIARA's POV
I could not believe my luck! Bad luck, that is. Not only did I have to injure myself, I now had to rely on Shevraeth for assistance. Burn it! He was carrying me! My foolhardiness at trying to ride alone nearly caused me even more harm, but Shevraeth's steadying arm was rescue enough.
I could not help but admire - grudgingly - his strength, both physically and mentally. From our past encounters, I had deduced that he was a man who could succeed even under great pressure and adversity. This was proof of mental strength. His grace and skill at the blade and horse riding spoke of physical strength. The muscles that had rippled under my hand were also evidence.
But did he have strength of heart and soul?
From what I'd observed, he seemed to have that in plenty. According to Renna, Trishe and the others, he had never taken a lover or paired up with anyone. Or if he did, he did it in secret. "It never went past a flirtation," Trishe had said with a flutter of her fan.
But how did he resist all the beautiful women of court? Lady Tamara, most of all. Even the blind could see her working her charms on him at every opportunity she got. The coy smile, the fluttering fan, the batting eyelashes. That was more than enough to make me roll my eyes in disgust. How did he manage to be impervious to it all?
I bet she'd kill to be in my position. Not that any young lady of marriageable age wouldn't. Come to think of it, I didn't really mind being here right now. I mean this man saved my life twice! It was safe to say that he intended me no harm.
However, I did find the closeness of our persons slightly disconcerting. It didn't help that our wet clothes were practically insubstantial at the moment. I could feel his smooth, broad chest pressed against my side, warming me. I couldn't help but shiver when a breeze blew past, and sensed his arms tightening around me as I pulled myself closer towards him. Wait a second, what was I doing?
"My intentions are pure," he had said. 'Purity of Intent', a white rose. Was it just a coincidence?
I admired his profile as we traversed the empty hallways, the straight nose, and grey eyes, curved lips and winged brows. Attracting the ladies would be as easy as pie for him. Don't get me wrong, he wasn't gorgeous or anything, just attractive and intriguing in a subtle way. This made him seem more humane, I guess.
The few servants we bumped into along the way tittered noisily once they had passed us, thinking that we were out of earshot. This would be all over Athanarel before they day was done.
I could even imagine what would be said: "Preposterous! I heard they were both close to nakedness, with their arms wrapped around each other," one would say.
"Oh my, this is scandalous indeed! Who would've thought? The little Tlanth Countess and the Marquis of Shevraeth," another would add.
"This all sounds like rubbish to me," a third would reply, "It is a known fact that they aren't on very good terms."
We arrived at the sitting room and he placed me gently down on a couch meant for reclining upon as it had only one backing at an end. He then ordered for some listerblossom tea and a set of dry clothes for me before disappearing for a moment, returning with a fluffy warm towel to dry myself with. By now, he had already changed into his usual attire of black. Even his wet hair had been towelled dry.
"Here."
I took the offered towel with a word of thanks and began drying my face and hair. Two maids came in a moment later with a simple gown of sky blue silk and a pot of listerblossom tea. They helped me into the dress after Shevraeth had excused himself, sending knowing smiles at one another. My hair was brushed out and left to hang loose, enabling it to dry. They then curtsied silently and left, leaving me all alone in Shevraeth's sitting room.
My foot still hurt, but the bleeding seemed to have stopped. The door creaked open and Shevraeth entered with a middle-aged woman with a Healer's Sigil stitched on the breast of her robe just as I was sipping at my cup of tea. I hastily replaced it on the table and smiled at the newcomer as she bustled over to my injured foot and began examining it after removing the makeshift bandage.
"I'm Mistress Kylar," she introduced herself. "This doesn't seem too bad. I'll just clean it up and bandage it with some herbs. The wound should close in a few days time if you stay off your feet."
That said she opened the satchel that she had carried with her and began opening packets of leaves and flowers and pouring their contents into a small cloth pouch.
"May I be of help, Mistress Kylar?" asked Shevraeth as he looked on.
"You could help the lady clean her wound," replied Mistress Kylar, gesturing to a steaming basin of water. I would have protested, but the look he sent my way made me fall silent. It was look of determination and worry.
He nodded and picked up the small towel that lay beside it, immersed it in the warm water and gently wiped away the blood from my wound with one hand as the other held my foot by the ankle, making my skin tingle. "You do remember Mistress Kylar?" he asked without looking up.
"The name does sound familiar," I murmured before coming to a revelation, "You're the one who treated me after my foot got caught in the trap!"
Mistress Kylar laughed softly as she completed her task of filling the cloth pouch with dried leaves. "Indeed. It seems that this foot of yours and I are fated to meet," she said.
The corners of Shevraeth's mouth deepened in his trademark smile of sorts, and his eyes showed true humour when he looked at me. Time seemed to stand still for a moment as our gazes locked. For once he seemed approachable, adorable even. His hair was still damp and slightly tousled although it had been tied back, his hands gentle and soothing on my injured foot, his eyes a whirl of emotion.
Then I blinked, breaking the spell. Hoping that Mistress Kylar had not noticed the lapse, I replied, "Hopefully, this is the last you'll see of it."
She nodded, indicating for Shevraeth to move out of the way. He picked up the basin and towel after putting my foot down on the couch and left the room. With gentle fingers, Mistress Kylar applied some ointment to my open wound and placed the pouch of herbs over it, securing it with a bandage.
"You are a lucky woman, Lady Meliara," she said, making conversation.
I looked at her in surprise. "What do you mean? I certainly don't consider getting myself injured 'lucky'," I replied.
She looked puzzled, "I didn't mean your injury but the relationship you share with the Marquis."
My eyes grew wide with disbelief. What had I done anything to make her think such? I had thought that I was just being civil towards Shevraeth!
"The Marquis and I are just associates, nothing more. What relationship did you think we have?" I asked, hoping that she just thought we were close friends - far from the truth though that may be.
She discovered that she had made a mistake and hastily apologised. "I apologise for the misunderstanding, I had thought that you and the Marquis were twoing, seeing that you two seem to get along so well and are so comfortable in each other's company."
Shevraeth and I. Getting along well?
"You seem to know him pretty well," I commented.
"We've worked together a couple of times, and he has never failed to prove that he is a capable leader who earns the respect of his men with ease. I'd wager he earns the attentions of ladies as easily!" She laughed easily at her own joke.
I smiled weakly.
She continued, "I know many a young healer who is enamoured of him. They would get in to a tizzy when he walked past, sighing and swooning and all that. But they know their place and stay out of his way. Besides, danger lurks in every corner on the field, one is hard pressed to find time for twoing."
When the job was done, she wiped her hands on the front of her robe, rose and began packing her things.
"That will be all for today, Lady Meliara. I have asked for a sleep draught to be brought up and will see you tomorrow. Send for me at whatever time suits you. My Lord." With a nod in Shevraeth's direction as he re-entered the room, she bowed and left.
"Shall I send for your brother, Lady Meliara?" asked Shevraeth.
"That isn't necessary, I'll just write him a note after I return to my rooms." I shifted my foot into a more comfortable position. "How shall I return?" I asked, sipping at the sleep draught.
"You can stay here if you like, at least after you've drank the sleep draught and slept. I will send for a carriage later."
"Wouldn't it be better if I returned to my own rooms and slept there instead?" I queried, fearful that the servants would misconstrue my staying here. If Mistress Kylar could jump to conclusions, couldn't they all be doing the same?
"If you are afraid of imposing, Lady Meliara. I assure you that this is no trouble at all," assured Shevraeth.
"No, that wasn't what I meant -" I started to say, but the sleep draught was beginning to take effect and I felt my eyelids grow heavy. Stifling a yawn I said, "Thank you," and promptly fell asleep.
And I dreamed. I dreamed about being at a wedding, with me as the bride! I was walking down the aisle and there were people everywhere. They were all smiling and bowing or curtsying, and I smiled in return, nodding my head at them in return. Bran was at my side escorting me down the aisle, beaming from ear to ear. At the end a bright light shone, obscuring from view the face of my husband-to-be.
When I arrived at his side, however, I was shocked to discover that he was none other than Shevraeth! My dream self smiled blissfully at him and slid her arm into his. The ceremony went through smoothly, although my sense of sight and sound was distorted. I seemed to be looking through a glass sphere and sounds echoed through my head. When it was time to kiss the bride, he brushed away a lock of my hair and placed his hand against my cheek, cupping it, lowered his head and kissed me!
The warmth of his hand felt real, I could even smell his masculine scent. The brush of his lips against mine felt real too. Dreams aren't real. You don't feel anything in dreams do you? But that kiss felt amazing - real or not. But it was from Shevraeth! What did it all mean?
My eyelids fluttered open as I awoke from that dream, and I stretched languidly, a smile spreading over my face. A warm blanket covered me and I threw it off impatiently. A quick look around showed that I was not alone. Shevraeth lounged nearby in an armchair with a thoughtful yet worried look upon his face, a steaming pot of hot chocolate in front of him.
Had he been watching me sleep all this while?
"What time is it?" I asked groggily.
He started when I spoke, running a hand nervously through his hair. I had never seen him this way before - ruffled. Had something happened while I was asleep?
He eyes darted a look at me before dropping to his hands that were now pouring me a cup of hot chocolate. "It's nearly dinnertime. I've ordered dinner to be brought up for us. That is, if you don't mind dining with me?" he asked, unsure.
A prickling sensation crept down my spine. Why was Shevraeth - of all people, inviting me to spend time with him alone? This was not the first time either: there was the horse riding, the picnic, the invitation to sleep over and now the request that I stay for dinner. All these were or will be done with him. Alone.
Then there was that dream.
"Uh - I really think I should go," I said.
He did not miss the urgency in my voice, and replied, "As you wish." Did I sense disappointment in those grey eyes?
Just at that moment, Savona burst into the room, a devilish grin on his face. "Danric! I was looking all over for you. I hope you don't mind, but I ordered my dinner to be brought up here, there is something I need to discuss with you." He looked up just then to see me reclining on the couch.
A mischievous spark in his eyes was clouded by suspicion. "Meliara! I'm not interrupting anything, am I?" he asked looking from Shevraeth to me and back to Shevraeth again pointedly.
"No, Russav. Lady Meliara was just saying that she'd like to return to her rooms," said Vidanric with what would be an irritated glare - at his cousin - for him. "And do knock before entering. Its only basic courtesy."
"Who in the world would knock when the woman of his dreams is on a rendezvous with another man?" retorted Savona, "Especially, if that man is his own cousin!" he crossed his arms over his chest in indignation.
Something passed between them. Savona was mock angry as a grin tugged at his lips. Shevraeth looked slightly annoyed at his cousin, sending him yet another glare that I could not read.
"This isn't a rendezvous, Savona," I said with a sigh. "I had hurt myself and Shevraeth kindly provided me with much needed assistance." It wasn't the whole truth, but it was true enough. "I should really leave now. Enjoy your dinner, gentlemen," I said with a nod of my head, and attempted to stand with much difficulty.
I had almost succeeded when Shevraeth appeared at my side and supported me by my arm. "I'll escort you to your rooms once I've summoned for the carriage." Savona looked amused at his cousin's concern and winked at me over Shevraeth's shoulder. I looked at him puzzledly.
"It would be better if you stayed for dinner, Lady Meliara," said Savona; "You have no idea how dull it is having dinner with my esteemed cousin." He added a "Please?" for good measure.
"Oh, all right," I replied reluctantly, "But I'll leave immediately after dinner." Pausing to settle myself down on the couch again with Shevraeth's help, I smiled gratefully at him.
Savona remained strangely silent throughout dinner, choosing to watch us instead. Our conversation was awkward at times, but then, Savona would say something that would relieve the tension.
Savona was the first to finish his dinner, long before the two of us. "Sorry, but I just remembered that I had something to attend to," he said, wiping the corners of his mouth with a napkin as he rose from his seat.
"I thought you had something to discuss with Shevraeth?" I asked.
He gave us that mischievous look again and said, "Oh, it can wait. He seems to be preoccupied with his dinner and the wo -," he caught himself in mid- sentence, "The work of the kingdom."
Shevraeth looked up from his plate slowly, calmly assessing his cousin. "Is that all, Russav? If it is, I'll see you, later tonight." Savona tipped an imaginary hat at the both of us and left the room.
"Forgive my cousin, he enjoys mischief, mystery and meddling," apologised Shevraeth, his hands now wrapped around his goblet.
"It's all right. I personally feel that he is very adept in lightening the mood, considering that I'm not in a very good one after hurting my foot," I said with a grimace.
"It'll heal in time," he replied with a kind smile. "Has your stay been comfortable so far, Lady Meliara?" He changed the subject.
"It's been a pleasure!" I enthused as I took a sip of wine. "I've made many friends - and found many swains," I added with a laugh. Why was I discussing swains with Shevraeth? But it was too late to swallow my words.
His grey eyes seemed to darken for a moment before he asked; "I take it that you're enjoying yourself, then?"
"Very much so. In truth, I did not expect to gain much from my visit here. But apparently I've been to quick to judge yet again." I shook my head when I remembered my foolishness in the past year.
"Being quick to judge is not an entirely bad thing. Your judgement can be considered a hypothesis of sorts since it often prepares you for the results. In this case, your hypothesis just happens to be partially wrong."
I looked at his open face. There was no hint of malice or ill intent, just a faint smile that invited me to join in his mirth.
"Partially wrong?" I asked.
"You were right about us being 'court decorations' as we are often watched and admired or looked down upon," he raised his goblet in a salute to me. "But we do serve our purposes."
Funny, he seemed to be inviting me to make conversation? Was this not an opportune time for me to scout out his plans for the kingdom? And whether or not he would make a good king?
"What purpose do you serve, then? Asides from being a 'court decoration' of course," I added jokingly.
"I serve many purposes but my goal remains the same: to ensure the prosperity of Remalna. My purpose in life is unclear to me as I'm sure yours is to you, but my immediate purpose is to be 'there' for my loved ones and kingdom at all times. A mighty albeit common purpose to be sure, yet a difficult one to fulfil."
"Difficult? Few people doubt your ability to balance your family and work, Shevraeth."
"Are you one of those few?" he countered, not looking me in the eye but over my right shoulder. I fell silent for a while, gathering my thoughts.
"Regardless of whether or not I - or anyone else for that matter - deem you fit of balancing family and work, Shevraeth; it all depends on whether you believe in yourself and consider yourself worthy. Confidence is half the battle won."
He smiled at my little motivating speech. "I see that you've become quite a philosopher, Lady Meliara." This was said in slow, quiet tones.
I blushed at his praise. "It's just something which has been a part of me for so long, I guess. I was brought up to believe that anything is possible so long as you have faith and conviction. It matters not if you fail or succeed in the end. All that matters is that you've given it your best effort and will persevere for as long as possible."
"You speak of love and war." A quirk of his mouth displayed a disarming smile.
"All is fair in love and war," I recited the well-known quote, "But how does this relate to what I've just said?"
"They both require 'faith and conviction'," he quoted me with a grin, "Not forgetting confidence in oneself."
Did he have a double meaning behind those words? Was he mocking me for losing the war - in a sense - and lacking a lover? Not that I cared for the latter.
"It depends. Love and war are games played by two or more people. Often, the results affect a great many more innocent bystanders, directly or otherwise. This is due to the fact that our personal faith and conviction are usually biased and may bring pain and suffering to others. The only way to avoid such a scenario is to compromise," I said contemplatively, twirling a lock of hair around my finger.
"But it takes two hands to clap," he rebutted easily, "If the other party is unwilling to compromise, should one continue to rely on his 'faith and conviction' to reach his goal?"
Shevraeth sat back in his seat, waiting for my answer, his head resting on the tips of his fingers, now forming an inverted 'v' shape.
"He should, only after he has made his intentions clear. Then, mutual trust will be nurtured between all parties. Isn't trust a vital part of faith and the basis of all that is good?" I spooned a piece of dessert into my mouth.
He nodded, deep in thought. "Would it be all right if trust was fostered before declarations are made?"
"It makes no difference so long as the result is beneficial to all," I acceded with an inclination of my head.
"Do you mean then, that a general should allow his soldiers to play a part in the planning of a war campaign to ensure their devotion to their land before declaring war? As a kingdom should build up diplomatic ties before declaring that peace reigns throughout? And as a lover should invite who he considers his significant other to participate willingly in a relationship before declaring his undying love?"
Shevraeth leaned forward in earnest as he spoke, his eyes bright, as if he had discovered some new knowledge that fascinated him to no end. His many examples were making my mind whirl or I might have drunk too much wine. I blinked once then twice before replying, "You could put it that way."
We had both finished our meals and he rose with liquid grace from his seat as he said, "Then you agree with me, Lady Meliara that mutual trust can be cultivated without a declaration of intentions?" he continued, not allowing me to speak, "And does this not mean that personal faith and conviction - biased though they may be - are vital to the achieving of one's goals?" Pausing for breath, he said, "Men are selfish creatures. We are biased but our goals hardly change. Then again, men with faith and conviction are also determined creatures. We will do all in our power to achieve our goals."
I laughed nervously, momentarily confused by what he had just said. "Your argument confuses me, Shevraeth. But it also makes much sense. However, I still believe that laying out the truth is the best method to create trust as it moves swiftly and is undeniable by all."
By now, he was only standing a short distance away from me. "Your faith in your convictions are admirable, Lady Meliara." He gave smart albeit small salute, signalling the end of our discussion and once again assisted me out of my seat. "I take it that you'd like to leave immediately?"
"If it isn't too much trouble," I said with as much calm I could summon. Inside, my mind was attempting to dissect the conversation we had just had. I had strayed from my purpose, or had I not? His words seemed to hold a million meanings, many of which I failed to decipher.
"It has all been arranged," he said with an elegant bow, his court mask secure upon his face once again.
Just then, his manservant Kervan came in and informed us that the carriage was ready.
"If I may?" asked Shevraeth, extending his arms towards me. He intended to carry me down himself!
I looked helplessly at Kervan, hoping that he would suggest doing the job himself. But he stood by passively. Left with no other choice, I raised my arms to be carried by the Marquis of Shveraeth, and could once again feel the heat emanating from his body envelope me.
~*~
A/N: YAY! Another chapter done! This is uber long, nearly 4000 words, if I say so myself. Thanks to Eunice - eutan - for beta reading it for me and giving suggestions. Do check out her fic "In My Dreams" in the CCD section! So, the big QUESTION: Did he or did he not kiss her? If yes, where? You guys are smart enough to know where this is going, right?
I had a rather hard time writing their conversation at the end considering that it got me confused too! Whoever manages to successfully decipher whatever it was about gets a prize! *Just kidding* Anyway, I hope you guys enjoy this chapter and give me a LONG review. I love LONG reviews. Get the hint?
There are only THREE entries in the contest so far! Where have all the rest of you gone to? Dayna and Liz, Deliandery, Phaerie, Danric-lover, Slipper- rose? That is 5 more entries if you guys write. Please do it soon! Here I am slaving away at the computer and there you are giving me reviews - which are very much appreciated and enjoyed - without writing your own fics!
Thanks to all reviewers!
Fairydust123: I'm definite that a duke is higher than a marquis. Go to dictionary.com for the definition. No offence, but I do my work before writing anything in an attempt to keep mistakes to a minimum. Heehee!
Love, Felicia