Author's Note- How are all of you readers out there? I have an update for you. Things have been so hectic lately. I have had too much homework and can only work on my story at night, but my sister complains that the light shines on her eyes and keeps her from falling asleep. How so much light finds its way all the way across the hallway and into another room is beyond me, but she is the baby of the family and gets whatever she wants. Ugh! I could have been writing today. There was a bomb scare at my school and we had to walk in the freezing cold down to the middle school. I sat for hours doing nothing while they searched the school, but I didn't have a notebook with me. At least I got no homework so I could finish this chapter for you. Please review and tell me how I'm doing. Is this the direction that you guys want to see the story go in? There will be more action later, but I'll make relationships get a little interesting first. Enjoy!
Chapter 7 - The Welcoming Ball
It took me a moment to see where I was when I woke up. The soft bed was foreign to me, but there was something familiar. I lifted the heavy quilts off of me and something flew into the air. The sleepiness that still lingered was gone with the fear of the unknown. Then I saw a tiny sparrow with a white dot on its head land on the bed right in front of me. My heart melted at the sight of Crown. The courtyard outside my rooms was the same one outside my room when I was a page. Crown flew to my outstretched finger and I stroked her withered fingers lightly. It was good to see her again. In the Islands, I often found myself reminiscing about the songs of the group of birds and the mischief they got themselves into. I missed their silent company. They couldn't speak to me, but they understood and always found a way to get a message across. I didn't have any feed for them, but I'm sure she could wait until I could find some to give to her.
I made my bed and practiced a pattern dance. Crown came over and pecked me. I pulled on a lilac kimono that had gold accents and opened the door to Shinko's room. She was up and sitting in a plush chair. She was staring into space and Yuki was beside her. Yuki watched her princess contently. Shinko was obviously thinking of Roald and Yuki watching for any signs that show that Shinko needs her comfort. They realized I had joined them and gazed up at me. "This is Crown, the leader of the sparrows in the courtyard outside my room when I was a page. She found me. I am off to go pilfer some seed to feed my old friend," I explain.
They smile to see that I am so happy at the return of an old friend. They nod at me in acknowledgement, so I turn back to my own chambers. Crown sat proudly on my finger as I wondered through the palace. My memory started to come back and I was able to find the stables. The supply room was unlocked and I slipped inside. Bags of fodder and seed were piled into the room. There was one bag of everything there opened up for people to take what they needed. Crown opened her tattered wings and flew to a small bag and started eating its contents. I followed her cue and picked up a five pound bag of the feed. Crown flew back to my finger and I headed to the kitchens. A kitchen servant recognized me as a member of the delegation and bowed low to me. "What can I do for you, my lady?"
"I need a couple of small dishes for my small friend here," I declare calmly.
He is not startled by the request or the presence of a wild animal in the palace. Daine has really made a difference in what people consider normal. The servant rushed to get me everything that I wanted. I thanked him with a copper when he was done, then I left him to go back to my rooms.
I opened my door with a key that hung on a chain around my neck. I walked over to the shutters and Crown rose into the air and flew out of the tiny ajar shutters higher up in my room. I open the large shutters and place the dishes out evenly along the window sill. I reach for my belt knife and rip the sack to get to the enclosed seed. I pour the seed into the dishes just in time when I here flapping wings and excited chirps. Suddenly, a swarm of frenzied sparrows descended upon me. They poked and pecked with their beaks to make sure that it was me. They introduced me, in a manner of speaking, to their children, and to their children's children, and so on. They finally calmed down and enjoyed the treat that I brought them. It was good to see them all again and see all of their offspring. They were thriving and happy. Maybe things do turn out good sometimes.
Just then, I knock on my door interrupted my thoughts. I frowned. Who could it be? I open the door and peak out curiously. I was greeted by a pair of awe inspiring emerald eyes. My stomach flip-flopped. "Hello Rose! I think I forgot to tell you yesterday, but I told your friend Yuki, that some of the knights of the King's Own have come to give all of the delegation a tour of the palace. I would love it if you would join me on a tour," Neal told me, nervously stepping from one foot to another.
I could see other Tortallans gathered at the doors of the visiting Yamanis. I nodded. I could navigate around the palace just fine, but a refresher course couldn't hurt. I collect the dishes on the window sill and close the shutters, then return to Neal, who was waiting outside. He smiled and offered me his arm. I took it and we were about to go when Shinko and Yuki came up to us. Shinko was escorted by Roald and Yuki by a tall, handsome, dark-haired man. He seemed sort of familiar. Then he slapped Neal on the back and said something that made Neal laugh. The amusement in his face, instead of the formal look he was wearing before allowed me to recognize him immediately. It was Faleron of King's Reach.
Roald, who never wanted anyone to feel left out, invited Neal and me to join them in giving Shinko and Yuki their tour. Shinko relaxed a little. She was relieved to have me near in case she got herself in a bind.
The boys led us through the corridor. It was now crowded with people trying to keep up with their guides as they set off to strange parts of the palace. They directed us through the glamorous halls that often attracted people who were visiting the palace. It seemed to make the girls and me attempt to be as proper and polite as humanly possible. All of the finery reminded us that we had been instructed to be on our best behaviors. Our escorts noticed this. "It is not as nice as the ambassador's dining hall, but would you prefer to join us in the dining hall for the King's Own for midday," Neal offered bravely.
Shinko and Yuki looked at me for this decisions and I nodded. "We would like that very much, Neal."
The smell of warm food made me realize how hungry I was. My stomach growled as we went along a buffet table. The kitchen servants filled our plates with mouth-watering dishes. Roald took charge and led us through the crowded tables. The rowdy men stopped and stared at us. They all looked as though they were in love with us. Neal and Faleron stood proudly with their chests stuck out at the privilege to be standing next to us. Roald finally set down Shinko's plate and his own. Our plates were carried for us and I liked being treated so nicely. I smiled warmly as I slid onto the bench next to Neal, but then I looked around. They table was filled with faces that I recognized from my year as a page, including Cleon of Kennan, Esmond of Nicoline, Merric of Hollyrose, and Seaver of Tasride. Luckily, they didn't realize who I was. Roald introduced everyone, while Shinko and Yuki shot me worried looks. I beamed at them to show them that I would be alright. I could feel the warmth of a body slide in next to me. I turned to see who it was. I was startled when I met twinkling sapphire eyes brighter than the King Jonathan's own. My stomach flip-flopped again. He smiled and called, "Hey, Meathead! Why are you pestering these fine ladies with your presence? Your skill is always useful and welcome down at he stables mucking out the stalls. You haven't forgotten the bet you lost. I did beat you in that archery contest and I fear you have neglected to muck out all of the stalls that belong to my squad," he called.
He grinned savagely at Neal, who was glaring. If looks could kill, this bold soldier would be as dead as a doornail. "I fear dear cousin that I can not follow through with my part of the wager today. I am to escort the Emperor's Rose through the palace. Will tomorrow work for you?"
"I'm afraid I have no choice, Sir Meathead," the mystery knight sighed.
Yuki, Shinko, and I had our fans up to hide our amusement of their performance. "This is my cousin, Domitan of Masbolle. He is a Sergeant and Squad leader in the Third Company of the King's Own," Neal grumbled, trying to politely introduce his cousin while pouting.
"No formalities, please, you fair ladies may call me Dom," the noble said.
Roald introduced us to Dom as we finished up our midday meals. Dom took my tray to be cleaned and Neal led me to the outside of the palace. He showed me the Queen's Riders, the pages, the King's Own, and the gardens. Every place he took me to stirred memories that I didn't even know I had. He had me laughing and the time passed so quickly. Shadow grew long before I remembered that I had to get ready for the ball. Neal took me back to my room and I rushed to get ready.
"What were you thinking staying out there so late? You're lucky that Shinko and I were back with plenty of time. We can help you get ready for the ball," Yuki snapped.
I tore off my kimono and shimmied into the tight gown. It was a pale ruby that made my hair look very bold. It had a collar and short sleeves. It wrapped tightly around my waist like a kimono, but the skirts were fuller. Shinko applied kohl to my eyelids, a pink powder to my cheeks, and a scarlet lip color to my mouth. Yuki brushed through my long tresses. There was not enough time to fix it so it laid straight along my back, down to my hips. Pink slippers adorned with rubies, a pair of ruby drops for my ears, and a ruby and diamond necklace made my look complete and gave the semblance of hours of work to look this good. I sighed when we finished just in time to hear a chime from the clock. Someone knocked on the door that attached Shinko's rooms with the common room of the delegation. I rushed over and opened it as a good lady-in-waiting should. Prince Eitaro stood there with the rest of the Yamanis behind him. They would not stay in Tortall, so they were not to be presented as we were. We were guided to a room and they abandoned us to go to the ballroom.
I looked around the tiny room we were abandoned in. It was empty, except for a few mirrors and vases filled with fresh flowers. The room was marble and had a huge French doors to the ballroom. Yuki was to be presented into the ball first. She looked nervous, but she was as beautiful as ever. Then, I should go, but Shinko wanted to get it over with and went out of the order we decided on.
He named was announced and the men standing there struggled to move the huge weight that blocked Shinko from the masses of people that awaited her. Her hid her nervousness, stood tall, and proudly wore her mask of no emotion. She entered the ballroom with a grandeur that can not be taught. She will soon be married and a royal of Tortall. She is my friend, and my princess. It was like watching her through a window and I could feel the love for her and my country roaring inside of me at this strange point of view.
The men were able to get the door closed in time for the prim but bellowing voice to call out, "The Emperor's Rose!"
They groaned at this strenuous workout and I could feel the butterflies in my stomach buzzing around like a Cerberus himself was chasing after them with all three heads. Finally I could see all of the nobles at court staring up at me with their mouths agape. I stepped out of my shelter and onto a landing. I grasped the banister lightly and gracefully floated down the staircase. Their eyes still had not left me and I was very conscience of myself. I followed the red carpet from the stairs up to the monarchs. I curtsied to the handsome Jon and the stunning Thayet. I went to join Yuki and Shinko.
The room seemed to come alive all at once. They buzzed about the new arrivals. I was just about to relax again now that I was with people that were familiar to me, when a group of young men approached us. Roald headed for Shinko, Faleron for Yuki, Neal for me, and their friends followed behind. Neal swaggered over, but I felt a tap on my shoulder. I turned to see Eitaro standing there. He smirked to Neal over my shoulder and asked to dance with me.
I agreed politely, but I was mad at him. I was not someone you can win by a game of smarts. I agreed to dance with Eitaro because it would have been rude not to, he could have had me whipped, and he was my friend. I don't like him as anything more than that, and especially when he acts as though it is just all a competition to see who can snare the Rose first. Ugh!
He led me to a spot on the dance floor. A new song struck up as he took my hand, slipped his arm around my waist, and drew me near. He led me through the dance smoothly. At least he didn't have two left feet. He spun me around and I made sure there was more room between us when I returned back to him. He didn't argue with that and looked straight into my hazel eyes with his deep brown ones. All of the anger I felt towards him melted away. Right now, he was the friend who I cherished back in the Islands. Then the music stopped and I was free to return back to the others.
I was surprised to see Domitan of Masbolle standing behind me as I was about to walk away from Eitaro. He kindly held out his hand without sneering at Eitaro. I felt light-headed. Great Mother Goddess Kel! You are a fickle monster aren't you? You melt with Eitaro, Dom, AND Neal. This isn't true love what your feeling, it is a simple little shopkeeper-girl crush.
Dom wore the most magnificent cobalt blue tunic, with a white shirt and breeches laces with silver. It added a shine to the otherwise bland white and showed off his sparkling eyes that much more. He led me through all of the steps without thinking about what he was doing. He looked at me the whole time and told me a little bit about Tortall. Of course, I knew all of the major events and facts, but it was always nice to know the detail of what is going on at court. The song finished and I wanted to stay for another dance with Dom, but to my surprise, I had yet someone else who wished to dance with me.
He tall, broad shouldered man with a red mane. He was quite handsome, and I marveled at how much my friend Cleon had changed. He was my brother's squire before he was knighted. He led me over towards a dark corner near doors that opened to a large balcony decorated with a tropical garden for the evening. Cleon bent down to my ear. It was not as difficult as I could have been because I was so tall. Softly, he whispered, "It is nice to see you again pearl of my heart."
I stared at him with shock. He knew who I was. Why am I so scared? I'm not Alanna. I am not trying to hide my identity. Everybody would already know who I am if I didn't look so different and have a different title to be called by. Cleon just stepped back and forth to the beat of the song, totally forgetting that they were not the steps we were supposed to take when dancing to this song. He tried to figure out what I was thinking, but the Yamanis trained me well. "So, you know who I am?"
"Of course I do. The others don't know yet, but they can see something familiar about you. I thought I'd let you know that I know who you are. I won't tell anyone if you don't want me to, but we're your friends, Kel. Why hide your return from us? You can tell them in your own time. I thought there just might be a reason for you not revealing yourself, and if there isn't, they will be overjoyed to see you," Cleon said.
He gave me a casual one-arm hug and walked away. He gave me a lot to think about. I backed up against the marble wall and sank onto a plush, red, crushed-satin bench. Was I trying to hide who I was from my old friends?
No, I was ashamed about what happened and didn't want to be humiliated again, but look at what I have become. I followed through with my promise to myself, I have made something of myself that will make Lord Wyldon and the king regret letting me go. I am the Emperor's Rose and I should be proud of my title and what it takes to acquire and hold my position. Although, they might resent me for not writing to them, they did not write to me either. I am not against them knowing. I'll just let them figure it out themselves who I am. It is all settled then.
I go to find Shinko. She is standing with Roald and they are having an awkward, while politically polite, conversation. Cleon wonders up behind me again. He looks at me to see if I am upset with him, so I smile warmly. I return my concerned gaze to Shinko. Things were not going well for her. "It looks like our prince and future princess are having a rocky time," Cleon notes.
"I think Eitaro might have given Shinko the impression that men with unusual mothers want ordinary wives, but I don't think that is true in this case. Maybe we should help," I grumbled.
I don't want there to be any discomfort between my royals and friends. If we could get Shinko to show her interest in the fighting arts, then things might be a little easier. Raoul of Goldenlake and Malorie's Peak wondered by as I was thinking of a solution. He was headed for a smaller room off of the main one. He was notorious or avoiding even the biggest of court events and obviously wanted to have to deal with this misery on a smaller scale. Inspiration struck. I turned to face Cleon, but I ran into his broad, strong chest. He grinned as I looked up at him embarrassed. "I have an idea. Raoul is a buff for the fighting arts, he is a knight after all, and so is Roald. They would not turn down the chance to learn something new and different from the Yamanis. We could show Shinko that it will help her and not hurt her to share some information to them about something she is passionate about too. It is brilliant in theory, but I need your help to test it out," I conspired with Cleon leaning close to hear.
He grinned at me again, and strolled over to Roald. He said something that made them march over to the tiny room. Cleon winked at me and I beamed inside. I wanted to wait a few moments before I went to check on them, to see if they needed any more of my help. I meandered among the crowd to pass the time. I saw Eitaro. He was talking to someone I did not know, even though they were clearly a native of the Yamani Islands. I saw a tiny green streak coming my way. I lifted tiny Erik up in my arms and kissed him on the cheek. He was devilishly cute in his grass green tunic and golden yellow shirt and breeches. I had gotten them as a present for him when I invited him to come to Tortall with the delegation to take care of Yasmine while I was busy. A slow song was playing, so I held Erik in my arms and danced along with the music. He told me he saw the Wild Mage and she had a dragon. I was the most amazing thing he had ever seen, along with the dancing monkey she had. I was not able to hide my grin as he reenacted the monkey's dance. I am in Tortall now, I don't have to hide my emotions, but I will anyway so I don't get out of practice. It was just that he looked so humorous doing his little jig that I had to smile. Erik spotted Daine with another animal and went to see what wonders it had hidden.
I went to go see how the betrothed couple was doing. Raoul and Roald were looking at Shinko alone, and lapped up what she was saying. She saw me across the room, so I winked at her. She was fine now, but what about Yuki. I have not seen her all night. I searched for her among the masses of people, but was not having any luck. I saw Faleron and went to see if he knew where Yuki was. To my surprise, Yuki was not with him, but dancing with Neal. Faleron glowered at the couple. Yuki was visibly enjoying herself, so I asked Fal to dance. He was in an extremely better mood as we danced to the fast song. He had to just about jog around the floor. Fal picked me up and twirled me around. He continued with the vigorous dance until there were only a few young people left who could keep up. We did not have the time or the breath to talk, but it was fabulous just to be around my old friends again. Yuki and Neal came over to us when we stopped. Neal jumped when loud brass horns by the thrones boomed across the hall. It was time for the Tortallan entertainment.
Alanna the Lioness entered the room along with her component, another knight. The short Alanna might seem overmatched by this tall, bulky knight, but the Tortalls knew better. We feared for the strange knight. They stretched as Eitaro and some other Yamanis came up beside us to see what was going on. A duke questioned, "Surely that young knight is too much of a component for Lady Alanna?"
I turned back to him. "That is not some soft Lady Alanna. That is The Lioness, and one of the fiercest fencers in all of Tortall. If you were wise, you would fear for that man. The Lioness is ledgendary for not spilling blood when she does not have to, but he will most definitely suffer injuries for taking her on. I would advise you not to judge a book by its cover, my grace," I admonished.
Almost the entire group gaped at me, awed by my knowledge of this country. I just turned to watch the spar. Alanna had unsheathed her sword, looking deadly. Cold sweat rolled off the knight. He was clearly afraid and dubious as to how he got himself into this situation. Alanna lunged forward. She saw her opponent was a weak one compared to her, and would attack first, because attacking is the only way you can win a battle. You do not win a spar with someone by blocking their blows the whole time. The Yamanis were captivated with the fencing tournament. Alanna finally placed her blade at the throat of the warrior and he bowed down to his superior. They left the way they came and we replaced in the circle of attention by a group of players. They were dressed brightly to draw attention to themselves. They flipped through the air as though they were birds. The turned and twisted in ways that I did not think the human body could. One player was walking on his hands with his back bent so his legs rested on his shoulders. They tumbled across the space they were provided with and lifted each other in the air. It was a circus of sights. There was always something different and more marvelous going on where you looked next. This was something I had never seen when I was in Tortall and was intrigued by this type of entertainment.
The players finished their show and left us with the band to finish out the night with songs. I danced with Neal, Dom, Eitaro, Fal, Cleon, Merric, Esmond, and a few strangers until I could no longer stand on my feet. This was fun and exercise at the same time. Eitaro returned to his friendly self and helped me back to my rooms. I was exhausted and could barely keep my eyes open, let alone walk. He led me into my rooms. He pulled down my many quilts and lifted me onto the bed. He tucked me in snuggly. I did not get a chance to thank him because I was already asleep. He fingered my exposed neck sinisterly, then kissed my forehead. He left me only with my dreams.