Heart Duel
Disclaimer: See previous chapters
Chapter 10: Kiss The Girl
Once I joined the throngs of Remalnans in the city square, I removed my hood, my hair floating around me yet again. The press of bodies threatened to overwhelm me, as people jostled to get to the various stalls and attractions.
"Hey, there lil' lassie! How 'bout a buncha silk ribbons for that glorious head of hair?" yelled a toothless old granny as I passed her booth, which was overflowing of the said item. I shook my head with a slight smile, before continuing on my way.
Looking up, I discovered that the morning was nearly gone; the midday sun shone high in the sky, and reflected off a head of golden hair, which grew from the head of Lord Felix!
What was he doing here?
I picked up my skirts and hurried after him as he turned a corner. He stopped at a stall selling an assortment of jewels and gems, and bent his head to inspect a specific bauble more closely. Paying no heed to the gesticulating merchant, who was no doubt trying to promote the stone, Lord Felix turned the precious stone slowly in his hand, inspecting it from every possible angle, before flipping the merchant a gold coin and walking briskly away.
I was breathless from trying to keep up, and heard rather than felt my stomach growling. Approaching a stall selling apples, I purchased a juicy red apple and began munching on it.
This trip to the fair was turning out to be something else all together. As I passed the stall selling jewels, the merchant called out to me with a wink, "A jade for you, beautiful?"
"No, thank you," I answered with a demure smile, "But what did the gold haired gentleman purchase from you earlier?"
"You want what he bought?" asked the merchant as he scratched his black beard. "That was the last clear quartz I got, and the most expensive of everything here. I doubt you'd be able to pay of it, little lady," he replied jovially.
'Clear quartz: the "Stone of Power", has the ability to bring the energy of the stars into the soul.' I recited mentally.
"How about the rose quartz, or smoky quartz then?" he asked.
"Its alright, I'd better be on my way," I replied with a duck of my head, and continued walking down the street in search of Lord Felix. However, I had already lost sight of the young lord. By now, my garland had wilted in the sun. Plucking it off my head, I stuffed it hastily into my cloak pocket.
The garland of apologies!
Well, how do I respond to that? I didn't know who sent it, but perhaps to forgive and forget was the best if it was an apology. But if it was a curse of sorrow, I'll just take things a step at a time!
Spying a stall overflowing with flowers, I quickly wove in an out of the surging crowd. Upon arriving at the flower stall, I was assaulted by various fragrances and colours. It gave me a sense of the wilderness in all its glory.
The portly middle-aged woman who ran the stall seemed exceedingly busy as she bustled about her little booth serving her customers, who ranged from young lovers to an old man bent with age.
When it was my turn, she spread her arms in welcome. "How may I help you, dearie?"
"I'm looking for Blue Scilla," I replied.
"Blue Scilla, dearie? Now, why would a pretty lass like you, need to 'forgive and forget'? Not some cheating swine comin' back fer forgiveness, I hope?"
I smiled, embarrassed. "No, I didn't have a lover to begin with."
Her eyebrows raised in amusement. "Well, I never! Its hard to come across a pretty lass like yourself without a line of admirers trailing behind her nowadays."
She continued her chatter as she searched for the Blue Scilla. "I remember when I was your age, the lads used to wait by me door! Me father had to chase 'em off with a broom."
I envisioned Father waving a broom, chasing off my prospective suitors, and laughed silently to myself. Out loud I said, "It must've been a sight to behold."
"Indeed it was, dearie. Now here you go!" she answered with a chuckle, handing me the bunch of Blue Scilla. As I pulled out my purse to pay her, a group of boys and girls ranging from ages fourteen to seventeen entered the stall.
Naturally, the group of them were paired off. In fact, they seemed almost like the young courtiers at court, flirting incessantly with their partners. However, they were much more frank about their affections, exchanging lingering kisses as they walked.
I cringed at the public display of affection. Did they not feel embarrassed?
The leader of the group swaggered up to the woman and I, staring rudely about the booth before commanding, "Gimme all the roses yer got, woman!"
After sealing our transaction, the woman busied herself yet again with getting the roses. "All the roses, sir?" she asked, a slight quaver in her voice.
"Yes, ALL the roses woman! Yer deaf?"
She nodded mutely, rolling up bouquet after bouquet of roses: the red roses, the yellow roses, the white roses and the pink roses.
Sensing trouble, my hand went instinctively to the hidden pocket in my cloak. My fingers closed comfortingly around my dagger. Darting a glance at the frightened woman, I walked purposefully towards her, and spoke loudly enough to be overheard.
"Here, let me help you Aunt."
She looked up from her work and stared at me quizzically. "Will you be all right?" I whispered. She looked over my shoulder at the hooligans and nodded. "Don't you worry 'bout me dearie," she replied, patting my hand.
"I want my roses, Thoran!" whined one of the girls, as she pouted her garishly red lips at her escort, the leader of the gang. He swelled visibly at the attention, and kissed the back of her hand.
"You'll be getting it soon love, if only SOMEONE would hurry up!" he soothed, while glaring in our direction.
Turning, I curtsied and gave him my sweetest smile, disgusted by his behaviour though I was. "My aunt will have your bouquets ready in a moment, sir."
It was then, that he noticed my presence. "My, my lads. What have we here?" At this, the chatter stopped as they all turned to look at me. I stood with my back straight and my hands clasped in the front, immediately assuming the courtier mask, hoping to look as regal as possible.
Thoran stretched out his free hand to hold my chin and tilt up my head. It took all my court training to refrain from jerking back. I met his gaze with my steady one. My fingers tightened around the hilt of the dagger.
"Who knew the flower woman would 'ave such a pretty niece?" he asked no one in particular. I bit back a retort.
"Here you are, sir," hurried the woman, as she offered him the bouquets.
He released my chin and accepted the bouquets before turning to leave. "Aren't you going to pay her?" I asked with indignation.
The woman tugged at my cloak and shook her head nervously. Her eyes conveyed her fear and hope to avoid any more trouble.
They turned slowly as one.
"Pay her? Fer what?" asked Thoran in all innocence.
"For the flowers. She needs to eat you know," I replied as evenly as I could.
"Eat? She's got enough blubber to last her a year!" yelled one of Thoran's lackeys.
The rest of his lackeys burst into raucous laughter at this, but Thoran glared daggers at the speaker and growled, "That was my line, fool."
The laughter died, and the speaker's face paled considerably. He reminded me of a dog which its master had beaten. I almost pitied him. Almost.
Thoran turned his attention back to me. "About the matter of payment, I'll pay 'er if you throw in a kiss!" he leered maliciously at me.
"Please dearie, just go," begged the woman. "He doesn't need to pay."
I weighed my choices. And ashamed as I am to admit, I decided against kissing the ruffian, and instead paid for the roses from my own pocket. Shoving Thoran and his posse out of my way, I stormed out the stall.
I thought that that was the end of the encounter, but I was wrong, for Thoran gave chase, and had my wrist in a vice-like grip within seconds. "No one pushes Thoran the Terrible. No one," he growled menacingly.
I would have laughed at his nickname if I could, but could only stop myself from whimpering in pain. Remembering my dagger, I pulled it out of my cloak. The blade caught the light, and he blinked at the glare. I held the point to his chest and purred sweetly, " Let me go if you don't want a dagger between your ribs."
He remained unfazed by the possibility of death, but instead laughed loudly into my face, his spit flying in all directions. " Ooh, the bitch has claws!"
He thought I was joking!
"And she won't hesitate to use them," I added, emphasising my point by jabbing him in the gut.
A crowd had gathered around us, and Thoran's lackeys were getting nervous. "Forget it Thory, she's just a girl, ain't worth your trouble," said one.
"Yeah Thory, I'm wanna go dance," whined his partner.
He glared at me one final time before shoving me away. "Let's go," he ordered, and his posse followed him, swaggering and giggling as if nothing had happened. I staggered backwards by the force of his shove.
"Ye all right, dearie?" asked the woman, a worried frown creasing her already weathered face. I nodded, and left the scene with my head held high. Lady or not, I would not be embarrassed by ruffians!
Thankfully, my Blue Scilla remained intact and relatively unharmed by the ordeal, but I feared that Thoran's rough handling had bruised my arm. Determined not to let this incident spoil my outing, I plastered a sunny smile upon my face and allowed my senses to be assaulted once more by the numerous sights and sounds.
An area in the middle of the square had been cleared as a makeshift dance floor. The on going dance was fast paced, and the dancers whirled around the perimeter in a swirl of colour.
I spied Thoran with his partner and in truth; they looked like any ordinary couple in love. But what I see now, does not reflect their behaviour back at the flower stall. What could have made a group of young people with bright futures ahead of them, turn to hooliganism? The lack of parental love?
I had come to the fair for the dancing, but seeing all the couples both young and old dancing merrily, I suddenly felt alone. I brushed aside the sense of emptiness as another wave of homesickness, but it suddenly became clear to me that the sense of loneliness went further than homesickness.
I needed a friend.
Not a lover or an admirer, but a friend.
Certainly, I had friends at court, but even then, we were only acquainted socially. I did not know much about any of them, aside from their favourite dances, their choice of entertainment on a rainy day, or their preferred tea. These things - for lack of a more suitable word, could be easily deduced if one just observed their behaviour.
I did not even consider Derrick and Liara as my friends. Indeed, they were my cousins, but how much did I really know about them? I didn't even know of the betrothal till the very last minute.
I continued walking around the fair, allowing myself the luxury of being unknown, while thinking about the ball that would be thrown for Derrick and the princess soon after my Flower Day, to adopt her into the family.
Aunt Mel had enlisted my help in planning the festivities, and I had readily agreed. With ideas already streaming in from the various figures at court, I was at a loss at which theme to settle on, the type of food to be served and the kind of music to be performed.
Perhaps I should try to gain some ideas of my own whilst at the fair. Perhaps a ball with a country fair atmosphere! That would be something interesting. Already, ideas were forming in my head: how to dress, what to do, what to eat. The list was endless.
All this thinking had allowed my thoughts to drift, and my feet to walk without any direction, save to chance upon Lord Felix again.
Mother used to say that 'A lifetime of purposeful searching might lead to nothing, but allow your feet to wander where they will, and you could reap great rewards'. It was meant to be a quote about love, but I suppose it could be applied to this situation too.
(A/N: I made this quote up in like a minute, so it's mine. But I'll mention the author of the quotes which do not belong to me, but which I may use, in the future.)
He entered an inn and claimed a table for two in a corner. Just as I was approaching, he was joined by none other than Thoran the Terrible. I almost shouted out a warning to Lord Felix, but he greeted Thoran with a smile one used when greeting an old friend, causing me to hold my tongue.
Were they friends?
I wondered if anyone would notice the two of them conversing quietly with one another; one dressed in rich robes, the other dressed in just a peasant shirt and breeches. Pulling my hood over my head, I entered the inn a short while later, and sat at a table nearby.
After ordering a drink, I settled myself down for some serious eavesdropping.
"Its all been arranged," said Thoran.
"Good, but don't do anything till I give you the order. Clear?" asked Lord Felix in hushed tones.
"Don't worry, I won't spoil your little surprise for their Highnesses."
"Its not the surprise I fear you'll spoil Thoran, but the finale," answered Lord Felix with a wry smile. "The adoption ball will be held soon enough, then they'll be travelling to Erev-li-Erval. With all the outrageous ideas Lady Tylana's been getting lately, I'm sure this will be the best of all! Not that she'll ever hear of it of course," he added.
Thoran laughed loudly exposing that cavernous mouth of his, so loudly in fact, that it seemed false. The fool probably didn't even get the joke!
Thoran was helping Lord Felix with a surprise for Derrick and the princess's adoption ball? But why was I not to be told?
"Won't you be surprised Lord Felix," I murmured under my breath as I slipped out of my seat and onto the busy streets yet again.
I'd had enough of the sights and sounds, and especially the headache that had been growing within my skull. A nap was in good order. I slowly threaded my way through the crowd and made a beeline to the palace.
Getting back in was harder than getting out, but I managed it no help from gravity. Breathing heavily, I walked briskly towards the guest wing, already planning my reply to the unknown apologiser.
~*~
Arriving back at my rooms, I unhooked the clasp at the front of my cloak, and draped it across the back of a chair. Seating myself at the study table, I pulled out a piece of parchment and began penning my response:
Dear Anonymous:
Your intent is unclear.
If an apology is what you offer, I accept it with no questions. If you wish sorrow to befall me, then there is little I can do, accept to be prepared. I sincerely hope that your purpose in sending me the hyacinths is not the latter, and that the Blue Scilla answers the question of the former.
Perhaps - your friend, Lana
With a flourish, I signed my name. After sealing the letter, I retrieved the Blue Scilla from my cloak pocket and began to tie the Blue Scilla together with simple sky blue silk ribbon.
Aunt Mel had told me of the correspondence and romance between herself and Uncle Danric, so I knew of this form of communication between the courtiers. But I had to admit, writing to a complete stranger who may or may not intend me harm, made me a little frightened.
After sending the letter and flowers to Anonymous, I changed into a pale yellow afternoon gown and headed for the library. All that walking earlier in the day had made my legs ache, and what I needed was good book and a cup of Listerblossom tea.
Walking into the library, I felt a sense of being dwarfed. Not only literally by the towering bookshelves, but also by the great minds who have compiled their knowledge and experiences into something as ordinary as a book.
Strolling down an aisle, which held memoirs of the rulers past and present, my eye fell on a slim but sturdily bound leather book. It seemed relatively new as compared to the other memoirs, and a quick skim through the pages proved that I was right.
The memoir I held was written by the present Queen of Remalna when she was but a few years older than I. The pages were slightly yellowed with age at the edges, but the writing could still be seen clearly.
As I continued to search the shelves for other memoirs, the sound of boots tapping across the tiled floor could be heard, followed by a light cough. Turning my head, I saw Lord Felix approaching me with a friendly smile upon his face.
His eyes twinkled as he asked, "What brings you here Lady Tylana? I would've expected someone such as yourself to be out for a walk with a swain or two," he added with a laugh.
"Shouldn't I be the one asking that question, Lord Felix?" I asked with amusement.
He crossed his arms across his chest before leaning against the nearest bookcase, "I wanted to see whether there were any memoirs about the ancestors from my mother's side of the family," he replied. "Besides," he added, "If I needed to go for a walk Lady Tylana, it would be with you."
I cleared my throat with embarrassment while he lowered his head to hide his grin from me. "Well, I just went for a walk earlier in the morning, Lord Felix."
"Then that would mean that you're available for the rest of the day?" he asked, glancing at me from under lowered lashes.
Why were men always blessed with long, curling lashes when we women were the ones who needed them the most?
"Actually, I was just about to read a book," I answered, waving the memoir in the air, before clutching it to my chest.
"Oh," he murmured.
"May I join you, then?" he asked.
"Certainly, but you haven't gotten yourself a book yet," I pointed out.
"Could you help me find one?" he asked, while reaching out a hand to touch me lightly on the upper arm.
"Sure," I replied, immediately turning to face the bookshelf beside me. His hand fell back to his side before he clasped it behind his back while searching the shelves.
"Ah, found one. Its about my great uncle Galdran!" he exclaimed while pulling the thick book off the shelf.
Having procured a book, he offered me his arm and led me towards a cosy little corner in the library. We sat at the window seat, reading by the sunlight. I had to admit, our proximity made me a little uncomfortable. I shifted slightly to move away from him.
"Too close for comfort Lady Tylana?" he asked, without looking up from his book.
Caught in the act and guilty as charged!
"Forgive me, but I was feeling a little stiff and needed to stretch my limbs a little," I lied.
"Feeling better?" he inquired, looking me in the eye.
"Yes, much better, thank you."
Closing his book, he tucked it under his arm and stood up. "Are you all right, Lady Tylana? Because you give me the impression that you are uncomfortable around me." A hurt look entered his eyes.
"Oh no, not at all!" I replied, shaking my head to emphasise my point.
He just smiled and nodded, "I had better make myself scarce then."
Extending his ungloved hand towards me, he bowed. I placed my hand in his, and watched him lift it to his lips. He kissed me on the knuckles. Not the usual dry kisses one would expect from a stranger, but a kiss with parted lips. I felt his warm breath upon my skin, perhaps mingled with a little moisture.
His intimacy made my eyes widen in surprise, but I did not withdraw my hand when I felt a tingle creep up my arm and down my spine to the tips of my toes. After allowing his lips to linger a few more moments than was proper, he deliberately lifted his head slowly to see my response. A slow smile spread across his face as he straightened. "Good day, Lady Tylana."
I just smiled with as blank a face I could muster and inclined my head while watching his retreating back, my mind swirling with numerous sensations.
~*~ VERY IMPORTANT!: Please go to the website which can be found under "my homepage"! It's an anime (I think) drawing of Tylana.really pretty and kewl.better than the first one for sure! Please leave your comments about it in ur review. Also, check out the artists' websites, which can be found at the corner of the pic. THANX!
A/N: Okay, I meant to end after the letter, but decided to continue with it. So hope you guys like the additional part. A preview on what's gonna happen in the next chapter. Not really sure what its gonna be like, but the main thing would be the arrival of Lana's family for her Flower Day (P.S.: Details may change when I'm writing, so if it turns out not to be what I mentioned above, you guys wouldn't mind right?) Keep an eye out for the next Chapter! Now, to thank the reviewers:
Elanial: No, KD is not about to become a mini-Danric. Although, I gotta confess that it did cross my mind. Sorry about the "alright", might change it in the near future if I find the time. Glad you like it!
Savannah: "Exquisite"? Wow, I didn't think of it as exquisite, but it's a wonderful compliment. Glad that you found it natural, and validity-wise.you may have a point there.
EmmeralCho: Here it is!
Deliandery: Agree about the names, but I am a person who lacks imagination in some areas, so please forgive me. But you gotta admit, the play on their parents names makes for easier reference. Glad you like that line!
Sunny: Just wait and see!
Charmgirl: Yeah, hyacinths are really pretty. Thanks for the compliment, and here's more. Hope it lives up to your expectations!
Emeri Dragonsul: Thanks for the compliment yet again, and hope this chapter creates enough mystery to keep you guys guessing for a while.
Shuyan: Yeah, you're my beloved.*bleahz*.Don't understand what you're talking about.
Ailpods1986: Feels great as a writer to know that your characters are loved! Gives you a sense of accomplishment, I guess. Yeah, KD is a cool dude, I kinda wish he were real!
Shiara the Witch: The 2 love interests makes it more interesting, and you gotta keep reading to find out, right?
Blazing Moon: The lengthier the better, but not too long I hope. Numerous plots? But it still seems like one plot to me. So long as the readers like it, I don't really care. Hopefully the "TON of potential" stays there. *crosses fingers*
SparkleRain: Here is more, and I'm constantly trying to improve, so don't you worry.
Cheler: How come EVERYONE thinks its KD? Gotta admit its possible, but there are other people who could've sent her the flowers rite? Well, think whatever you need to think, I ain't gonna give anything away. *Evil laughter*
Hannirose: Good question. Who will she end up with, KD or Felix? Hmmm.food for thought. Sorry, my lips are sealed. And for the record, Lana's MINE! Lol.
Aqualyne: I thought so too, stay tuned!
Shufen: This romance enough? Well, not exactly I guess, but it'll have to do. You could be my literature teacher!
Disclaimer: See previous chapters
Chapter 10: Kiss The Girl
Once I joined the throngs of Remalnans in the city square, I removed my hood, my hair floating around me yet again. The press of bodies threatened to overwhelm me, as people jostled to get to the various stalls and attractions.
"Hey, there lil' lassie! How 'bout a buncha silk ribbons for that glorious head of hair?" yelled a toothless old granny as I passed her booth, which was overflowing of the said item. I shook my head with a slight smile, before continuing on my way.
Looking up, I discovered that the morning was nearly gone; the midday sun shone high in the sky, and reflected off a head of golden hair, which grew from the head of Lord Felix!
What was he doing here?
I picked up my skirts and hurried after him as he turned a corner. He stopped at a stall selling an assortment of jewels and gems, and bent his head to inspect a specific bauble more closely. Paying no heed to the gesticulating merchant, who was no doubt trying to promote the stone, Lord Felix turned the precious stone slowly in his hand, inspecting it from every possible angle, before flipping the merchant a gold coin and walking briskly away.
I was breathless from trying to keep up, and heard rather than felt my stomach growling. Approaching a stall selling apples, I purchased a juicy red apple and began munching on it.
This trip to the fair was turning out to be something else all together. As I passed the stall selling jewels, the merchant called out to me with a wink, "A jade for you, beautiful?"
"No, thank you," I answered with a demure smile, "But what did the gold haired gentleman purchase from you earlier?"
"You want what he bought?" asked the merchant as he scratched his black beard. "That was the last clear quartz I got, and the most expensive of everything here. I doubt you'd be able to pay of it, little lady," he replied jovially.
'Clear quartz: the "Stone of Power", has the ability to bring the energy of the stars into the soul.' I recited mentally.
"How about the rose quartz, or smoky quartz then?" he asked.
"Its alright, I'd better be on my way," I replied with a duck of my head, and continued walking down the street in search of Lord Felix. However, I had already lost sight of the young lord. By now, my garland had wilted in the sun. Plucking it off my head, I stuffed it hastily into my cloak pocket.
The garland of apologies!
Well, how do I respond to that? I didn't know who sent it, but perhaps to forgive and forget was the best if it was an apology. But if it was a curse of sorrow, I'll just take things a step at a time!
Spying a stall overflowing with flowers, I quickly wove in an out of the surging crowd. Upon arriving at the flower stall, I was assaulted by various fragrances and colours. It gave me a sense of the wilderness in all its glory.
The portly middle-aged woman who ran the stall seemed exceedingly busy as she bustled about her little booth serving her customers, who ranged from young lovers to an old man bent with age.
When it was my turn, she spread her arms in welcome. "How may I help you, dearie?"
"I'm looking for Blue Scilla," I replied.
"Blue Scilla, dearie? Now, why would a pretty lass like you, need to 'forgive and forget'? Not some cheating swine comin' back fer forgiveness, I hope?"
I smiled, embarrassed. "No, I didn't have a lover to begin with."
Her eyebrows raised in amusement. "Well, I never! Its hard to come across a pretty lass like yourself without a line of admirers trailing behind her nowadays."
She continued her chatter as she searched for the Blue Scilla. "I remember when I was your age, the lads used to wait by me door! Me father had to chase 'em off with a broom."
I envisioned Father waving a broom, chasing off my prospective suitors, and laughed silently to myself. Out loud I said, "It must've been a sight to behold."
"Indeed it was, dearie. Now here you go!" she answered with a chuckle, handing me the bunch of Blue Scilla. As I pulled out my purse to pay her, a group of boys and girls ranging from ages fourteen to seventeen entered the stall.
Naturally, the group of them were paired off. In fact, they seemed almost like the young courtiers at court, flirting incessantly with their partners. However, they were much more frank about their affections, exchanging lingering kisses as they walked.
I cringed at the public display of affection. Did they not feel embarrassed?
The leader of the group swaggered up to the woman and I, staring rudely about the booth before commanding, "Gimme all the roses yer got, woman!"
After sealing our transaction, the woman busied herself yet again with getting the roses. "All the roses, sir?" she asked, a slight quaver in her voice.
"Yes, ALL the roses woman! Yer deaf?"
She nodded mutely, rolling up bouquet after bouquet of roses: the red roses, the yellow roses, the white roses and the pink roses.
Sensing trouble, my hand went instinctively to the hidden pocket in my cloak. My fingers closed comfortingly around my dagger. Darting a glance at the frightened woman, I walked purposefully towards her, and spoke loudly enough to be overheard.
"Here, let me help you Aunt."
She looked up from her work and stared at me quizzically. "Will you be all right?" I whispered. She looked over my shoulder at the hooligans and nodded. "Don't you worry 'bout me dearie," she replied, patting my hand.
"I want my roses, Thoran!" whined one of the girls, as she pouted her garishly red lips at her escort, the leader of the gang. He swelled visibly at the attention, and kissed the back of her hand.
"You'll be getting it soon love, if only SOMEONE would hurry up!" he soothed, while glaring in our direction.
Turning, I curtsied and gave him my sweetest smile, disgusted by his behaviour though I was. "My aunt will have your bouquets ready in a moment, sir."
It was then, that he noticed my presence. "My, my lads. What have we here?" At this, the chatter stopped as they all turned to look at me. I stood with my back straight and my hands clasped in the front, immediately assuming the courtier mask, hoping to look as regal as possible.
Thoran stretched out his free hand to hold my chin and tilt up my head. It took all my court training to refrain from jerking back. I met his gaze with my steady one. My fingers tightened around the hilt of the dagger.
"Who knew the flower woman would 'ave such a pretty niece?" he asked no one in particular. I bit back a retort.
"Here you are, sir," hurried the woman, as she offered him the bouquets.
He released my chin and accepted the bouquets before turning to leave. "Aren't you going to pay her?" I asked with indignation.
The woman tugged at my cloak and shook her head nervously. Her eyes conveyed her fear and hope to avoid any more trouble.
They turned slowly as one.
"Pay her? Fer what?" asked Thoran in all innocence.
"For the flowers. She needs to eat you know," I replied as evenly as I could.
"Eat? She's got enough blubber to last her a year!" yelled one of Thoran's lackeys.
The rest of his lackeys burst into raucous laughter at this, but Thoran glared daggers at the speaker and growled, "That was my line, fool."
The laughter died, and the speaker's face paled considerably. He reminded me of a dog which its master had beaten. I almost pitied him. Almost.
Thoran turned his attention back to me. "About the matter of payment, I'll pay 'er if you throw in a kiss!" he leered maliciously at me.
"Please dearie, just go," begged the woman. "He doesn't need to pay."
I weighed my choices. And ashamed as I am to admit, I decided against kissing the ruffian, and instead paid for the roses from my own pocket. Shoving Thoran and his posse out of my way, I stormed out the stall.
I thought that that was the end of the encounter, but I was wrong, for Thoran gave chase, and had my wrist in a vice-like grip within seconds. "No one pushes Thoran the Terrible. No one," he growled menacingly.
I would have laughed at his nickname if I could, but could only stop myself from whimpering in pain. Remembering my dagger, I pulled it out of my cloak. The blade caught the light, and he blinked at the glare. I held the point to his chest and purred sweetly, " Let me go if you don't want a dagger between your ribs."
He remained unfazed by the possibility of death, but instead laughed loudly into my face, his spit flying in all directions. " Ooh, the bitch has claws!"
He thought I was joking!
"And she won't hesitate to use them," I added, emphasising my point by jabbing him in the gut.
A crowd had gathered around us, and Thoran's lackeys were getting nervous. "Forget it Thory, she's just a girl, ain't worth your trouble," said one.
"Yeah Thory, I'm wanna go dance," whined his partner.
He glared at me one final time before shoving me away. "Let's go," he ordered, and his posse followed him, swaggering and giggling as if nothing had happened. I staggered backwards by the force of his shove.
"Ye all right, dearie?" asked the woman, a worried frown creasing her already weathered face. I nodded, and left the scene with my head held high. Lady or not, I would not be embarrassed by ruffians!
Thankfully, my Blue Scilla remained intact and relatively unharmed by the ordeal, but I feared that Thoran's rough handling had bruised my arm. Determined not to let this incident spoil my outing, I plastered a sunny smile upon my face and allowed my senses to be assaulted once more by the numerous sights and sounds.
An area in the middle of the square had been cleared as a makeshift dance floor. The on going dance was fast paced, and the dancers whirled around the perimeter in a swirl of colour.
I spied Thoran with his partner and in truth; they looked like any ordinary couple in love. But what I see now, does not reflect their behaviour back at the flower stall. What could have made a group of young people with bright futures ahead of them, turn to hooliganism? The lack of parental love?
I had come to the fair for the dancing, but seeing all the couples both young and old dancing merrily, I suddenly felt alone. I brushed aside the sense of emptiness as another wave of homesickness, but it suddenly became clear to me that the sense of loneliness went further than homesickness.
I needed a friend.
Not a lover or an admirer, but a friend.
Certainly, I had friends at court, but even then, we were only acquainted socially. I did not know much about any of them, aside from their favourite dances, their choice of entertainment on a rainy day, or their preferred tea. These things - for lack of a more suitable word, could be easily deduced if one just observed their behaviour.
I did not even consider Derrick and Liara as my friends. Indeed, they were my cousins, but how much did I really know about them? I didn't even know of the betrothal till the very last minute.
I continued walking around the fair, allowing myself the luxury of being unknown, while thinking about the ball that would be thrown for Derrick and the princess soon after my Flower Day, to adopt her into the family.
Aunt Mel had enlisted my help in planning the festivities, and I had readily agreed. With ideas already streaming in from the various figures at court, I was at a loss at which theme to settle on, the type of food to be served and the kind of music to be performed.
Perhaps I should try to gain some ideas of my own whilst at the fair. Perhaps a ball with a country fair atmosphere! That would be something interesting. Already, ideas were forming in my head: how to dress, what to do, what to eat. The list was endless.
All this thinking had allowed my thoughts to drift, and my feet to walk without any direction, save to chance upon Lord Felix again.
Mother used to say that 'A lifetime of purposeful searching might lead to nothing, but allow your feet to wander where they will, and you could reap great rewards'. It was meant to be a quote about love, but I suppose it could be applied to this situation too.
(A/N: I made this quote up in like a minute, so it's mine. But I'll mention the author of the quotes which do not belong to me, but which I may use, in the future.)
He entered an inn and claimed a table for two in a corner. Just as I was approaching, he was joined by none other than Thoran the Terrible. I almost shouted out a warning to Lord Felix, but he greeted Thoran with a smile one used when greeting an old friend, causing me to hold my tongue.
Were they friends?
I wondered if anyone would notice the two of them conversing quietly with one another; one dressed in rich robes, the other dressed in just a peasant shirt and breeches. Pulling my hood over my head, I entered the inn a short while later, and sat at a table nearby.
After ordering a drink, I settled myself down for some serious eavesdropping.
"Its all been arranged," said Thoran.
"Good, but don't do anything till I give you the order. Clear?" asked Lord Felix in hushed tones.
"Don't worry, I won't spoil your little surprise for their Highnesses."
"Its not the surprise I fear you'll spoil Thoran, but the finale," answered Lord Felix with a wry smile. "The adoption ball will be held soon enough, then they'll be travelling to Erev-li-Erval. With all the outrageous ideas Lady Tylana's been getting lately, I'm sure this will be the best of all! Not that she'll ever hear of it of course," he added.
Thoran laughed loudly exposing that cavernous mouth of his, so loudly in fact, that it seemed false. The fool probably didn't even get the joke!
Thoran was helping Lord Felix with a surprise for Derrick and the princess's adoption ball? But why was I not to be told?
"Won't you be surprised Lord Felix," I murmured under my breath as I slipped out of my seat and onto the busy streets yet again.
I'd had enough of the sights and sounds, and especially the headache that had been growing within my skull. A nap was in good order. I slowly threaded my way through the crowd and made a beeline to the palace.
Getting back in was harder than getting out, but I managed it no help from gravity. Breathing heavily, I walked briskly towards the guest wing, already planning my reply to the unknown apologiser.
~*~
Arriving back at my rooms, I unhooked the clasp at the front of my cloak, and draped it across the back of a chair. Seating myself at the study table, I pulled out a piece of parchment and began penning my response:
Dear Anonymous:
Your intent is unclear.
If an apology is what you offer, I accept it with no questions. If you wish sorrow to befall me, then there is little I can do, accept to be prepared. I sincerely hope that your purpose in sending me the hyacinths is not the latter, and that the Blue Scilla answers the question of the former.
Perhaps - your friend, Lana
With a flourish, I signed my name. After sealing the letter, I retrieved the Blue Scilla from my cloak pocket and began to tie the Blue Scilla together with simple sky blue silk ribbon.
Aunt Mel had told me of the correspondence and romance between herself and Uncle Danric, so I knew of this form of communication between the courtiers. But I had to admit, writing to a complete stranger who may or may not intend me harm, made me a little frightened.
After sending the letter and flowers to Anonymous, I changed into a pale yellow afternoon gown and headed for the library. All that walking earlier in the day had made my legs ache, and what I needed was good book and a cup of Listerblossom tea.
Walking into the library, I felt a sense of being dwarfed. Not only literally by the towering bookshelves, but also by the great minds who have compiled their knowledge and experiences into something as ordinary as a book.
Strolling down an aisle, which held memoirs of the rulers past and present, my eye fell on a slim but sturdily bound leather book. It seemed relatively new as compared to the other memoirs, and a quick skim through the pages proved that I was right.
The memoir I held was written by the present Queen of Remalna when she was but a few years older than I. The pages were slightly yellowed with age at the edges, but the writing could still be seen clearly.
As I continued to search the shelves for other memoirs, the sound of boots tapping across the tiled floor could be heard, followed by a light cough. Turning my head, I saw Lord Felix approaching me with a friendly smile upon his face.
His eyes twinkled as he asked, "What brings you here Lady Tylana? I would've expected someone such as yourself to be out for a walk with a swain or two," he added with a laugh.
"Shouldn't I be the one asking that question, Lord Felix?" I asked with amusement.
He crossed his arms across his chest before leaning against the nearest bookcase, "I wanted to see whether there were any memoirs about the ancestors from my mother's side of the family," he replied. "Besides," he added, "If I needed to go for a walk Lady Tylana, it would be with you."
I cleared my throat with embarrassment while he lowered his head to hide his grin from me. "Well, I just went for a walk earlier in the morning, Lord Felix."
"Then that would mean that you're available for the rest of the day?" he asked, glancing at me from under lowered lashes.
Why were men always blessed with long, curling lashes when we women were the ones who needed them the most?
"Actually, I was just about to read a book," I answered, waving the memoir in the air, before clutching it to my chest.
"Oh," he murmured.
"May I join you, then?" he asked.
"Certainly, but you haven't gotten yourself a book yet," I pointed out.
"Could you help me find one?" he asked, while reaching out a hand to touch me lightly on the upper arm.
"Sure," I replied, immediately turning to face the bookshelf beside me. His hand fell back to his side before he clasped it behind his back while searching the shelves.
"Ah, found one. Its about my great uncle Galdran!" he exclaimed while pulling the thick book off the shelf.
Having procured a book, he offered me his arm and led me towards a cosy little corner in the library. We sat at the window seat, reading by the sunlight. I had to admit, our proximity made me a little uncomfortable. I shifted slightly to move away from him.
"Too close for comfort Lady Tylana?" he asked, without looking up from his book.
Caught in the act and guilty as charged!
"Forgive me, but I was feeling a little stiff and needed to stretch my limbs a little," I lied.
"Feeling better?" he inquired, looking me in the eye.
"Yes, much better, thank you."
Closing his book, he tucked it under his arm and stood up. "Are you all right, Lady Tylana? Because you give me the impression that you are uncomfortable around me." A hurt look entered his eyes.
"Oh no, not at all!" I replied, shaking my head to emphasise my point.
He just smiled and nodded, "I had better make myself scarce then."
Extending his ungloved hand towards me, he bowed. I placed my hand in his, and watched him lift it to his lips. He kissed me on the knuckles. Not the usual dry kisses one would expect from a stranger, but a kiss with parted lips. I felt his warm breath upon my skin, perhaps mingled with a little moisture.
His intimacy made my eyes widen in surprise, but I did not withdraw my hand when I felt a tingle creep up my arm and down my spine to the tips of my toes. After allowing his lips to linger a few more moments than was proper, he deliberately lifted his head slowly to see my response. A slow smile spread across his face as he straightened. "Good day, Lady Tylana."
I just smiled with as blank a face I could muster and inclined my head while watching his retreating back, my mind swirling with numerous sensations.
~*~ VERY IMPORTANT!: Please go to the website which can be found under "my homepage"! It's an anime (I think) drawing of Tylana.really pretty and kewl.better than the first one for sure! Please leave your comments about it in ur review. Also, check out the artists' websites, which can be found at the corner of the pic. THANX!
A/N: Okay, I meant to end after the letter, but decided to continue with it. So hope you guys like the additional part. A preview on what's gonna happen in the next chapter. Not really sure what its gonna be like, but the main thing would be the arrival of Lana's family for her Flower Day (P.S.: Details may change when I'm writing, so if it turns out not to be what I mentioned above, you guys wouldn't mind right?) Keep an eye out for the next Chapter! Now, to thank the reviewers:
Elanial: No, KD is not about to become a mini-Danric. Although, I gotta confess that it did cross my mind. Sorry about the "alright", might change it in the near future if I find the time. Glad you like it!
Savannah: "Exquisite"? Wow, I didn't think of it as exquisite, but it's a wonderful compliment. Glad that you found it natural, and validity-wise.you may have a point there.
EmmeralCho: Here it is!
Deliandery: Agree about the names, but I am a person who lacks imagination in some areas, so please forgive me. But you gotta admit, the play on their parents names makes for easier reference. Glad you like that line!
Sunny: Just wait and see!
Charmgirl: Yeah, hyacinths are really pretty. Thanks for the compliment, and here's more. Hope it lives up to your expectations!
Emeri Dragonsul: Thanks for the compliment yet again, and hope this chapter creates enough mystery to keep you guys guessing for a while.
Shuyan: Yeah, you're my beloved.*bleahz*.Don't understand what you're talking about.
Ailpods1986: Feels great as a writer to know that your characters are loved! Gives you a sense of accomplishment, I guess. Yeah, KD is a cool dude, I kinda wish he were real!
Shiara the Witch: The 2 love interests makes it more interesting, and you gotta keep reading to find out, right?
Blazing Moon: The lengthier the better, but not too long I hope. Numerous plots? But it still seems like one plot to me. So long as the readers like it, I don't really care. Hopefully the "TON of potential" stays there. *crosses fingers*
SparkleRain: Here is more, and I'm constantly trying to improve, so don't you worry.
Cheler: How come EVERYONE thinks its KD? Gotta admit its possible, but there are other people who could've sent her the flowers rite? Well, think whatever you need to think, I ain't gonna give anything away. *Evil laughter*
Hannirose: Good question. Who will she end up with, KD or Felix? Hmmm.food for thought. Sorry, my lips are sealed. And for the record, Lana's MINE! Lol.
Aqualyne: I thought so too, stay tuned!
Shufen: This romance enough? Well, not exactly I guess, but it'll have to do. You could be my literature teacher!
