Dangerous Games
Chapter Six Katas in the Early Morn
Sleep had not come to Hiroko easily that night. The events of the previous hours had left more than a few things on her mind. She merely sat quietly in bed, feet tucked underneath her form, staring thoughtfully into the dancing flame of the oil lamp beside her bed. Sighing gently, her hand wandered down her body and about her waist at the pleasant memory of warm arms wrapped around her and of a hard body pressed against hers, lingering. Elegant fingers traced the same path Lord Guilliame's had followed, gentle shivers mimicking the same reaction as when it had been his touch upon her. Regardless of the hours passed she could still almost feel it; it brought unbidden thoughts to mind, no wonder she couldn't sleep! Despite the impropriety involved, she secretly wished she had not stopped the young lord in his course actions.
She had returned to Lord Mustrum as soon as leaving Guimel's side, waiting, as promised, for the last dance with him; not that they did not dance before that. Their reconciliation has taken a short time: Terris' temper had clearly cooled and he was regretting his curtness towards her. He had not left her side after that, his role as her brotherly chaperone continuing, not that she minded. And the last dance had been touching; their comfort and familiarity with each other clear in the movements, actions and closeness.
Naolin had returned just before the end of the ball, alone; with a satisfied smile gracing his lips and a lazy stride to his steps. He seemed very pleased with himself for some reason, yet Terris has told her to dismiss it from her mind and so she had, simply enjoying her time with him, though her thoughts did stray to the blond haired lord more than once! His touch, words, actions all caused her attention to stray, though as the night ended she did not permit herself to search him out. Only once did she allow him to govern her actions, drawing herself away for a brief moment or two to write a private for him. The words of her note floated through her mind as her fingers fiddled absently with the fabric of her nightgown. 'Tea will be at 2 o'clock. I look forward to seeing you again, Guimel. Hopefully it will be as enjoyable as tonight. Yours, Hiroko.'
She had held the folded piece of paper to her breast for but a moment. Perhaps it wasn't prudent to see him again. Yet… she herself had acted a little uncouthly that night and never once had he taken offence so she had no real reason not to see the lord gain! After all, every time his actions had disturbed or un-nerved her in the slightest he had immediately backed down, apologising profusely. In the end she had conceded, fingers tracing the inscribed name of Lord Guilliame but once before handing the note to a nearby servant. There on after she remained at Terris' side, allowing him to escort her, and a still smugly smiling Naolin, back to their elegant abode.
They had returned home in the early hours of the morn, the horse-drawn carriage moving smoothly through the streets with the light clatter of hooves on the shingles beneath them, growing softer as they drew away from the city's centre. She was glad she did not live there. It was strange that her father, a highly influential man of the country, had not chosen to live in the centre of Zaibach, instead settling further away, though not far. He always had enjoyed his peace, though! And living in the bustling city would be anything but peaceful. Whatever the reason, she was thankful. Their château lay in rich acres of land and this meant she had many resources at her disposal that others did not.
With a sign of frustration she forced herself from her bed and, with small, fluid steps, made her way to the adjoining bathroom. She cared little that there were none to draw the water for her; besides, she wanted to relax and think. A group of chattering maids was the last thing she needed. After all it wasn't as if she were incapable of doing such a task by herself! She thought as she ascended the steps to the dais her bath stood so elegantly against.
The bath was warm, just a little warmer than her own body's temperature and she sighed with pleasure as she slipped into it, the water lapping around her shoulders. Her hair floated about her as she submerged herself and remained there for what seemed like hours, yet strangely at the same time mere minutes. Her tired muscles gradually relaxed, tensions ebbing away as she ran a soap-sudded wash cloth over her tanned skin before sinking back under the water once again. Her head came up out of the water, eyes slowly opening despite the droplets gathered against her eyelashes, slightly hindering her sight. Leaned back against the bath's rim, she finally felt her eyes drooping closed. It felt so pleasant; she could just stay there for hours. Journeying back to Zaibach and then having the ball to go to had seemed to have drained the last drops of energy from her. It was only now that she finally felt their effects.
Only when her fingers and toes began to prune and her head began to droop sleepily did Hiroko force her eyes to open. For a moment she toyed with the end of the tap, toes tracing the end nozzle before releasing a small disappointed sigh and rising to her feet, wet hair clinging to her back and water flowing down her bare form as she stepped out of the bath. With small steps she descended the dais surrounding the tub before returning back into her chamber, each step forced and sleepy. She wrapped a dry towel around her as she went, uncaring at that time with the small matter of her damp body and hair.
It was only as she sank onto the bed that she finally felt the true effect of the bath. The sheets shifted under her weight, curving around her form like that of a child's winding sheet. The softness of the satin pillow beneath her beckoned her to sleep, her worries and concerns trickling down the plug with the last of the soap-sudded bath water and she yawned sleepily, head nuzzling into the silky soft material. Visions of glittering blond curls and green eyes consumed her dreams that morning; such dreams which were not completely unwanted!
It was the gentle touch of a hand against her cheek, which woke Hiroko later that morning, the sensation of skin on soft skin causing her to release a muted sigh as she stirred. Very slowly her eyes opened, blinking uneasily in the morning light, coming face to face with twinkling prussian orbs, matching her own.
"Naolin…" His expression seemed to brighten and soften as she sleepily murmured his name. She returned his affectionate smile before squinting ever so slightly as she turned her head to glance out through the room's now open window. Only when she realised how high the sun was in the sky did she start upright, finally realising how late in the morning it was.
"Terris is here and has been enquiring into your whereabouts. I explained that last night had quite tired you out. He did offer to come and wake you; I see it's a good thing I came instead, considering your chosen attire. Though I think Terris will beg to differ. I think he will be sourly disappointed when I tell him how I found you. Very disappointed, indeed." Nimble fingers tugged suggestively at the towel still wrapped around Hiroko's form, the teasing tone in Naolin's voice telling her all she needed to hear and she felt a steady blush spread against her cheeks. No, it was not very proper, regardless of the place, for a lady of her lineage to be found in such a way, a towel loosely wrapped around her bare form, cut indecently to the mid section of her thighs.
Naolin tugged again on the fabric, grasping the edge and opening it slightly before having his hand slapped playfully away. No, it would not have done for Terris to see her in such a state, regardless of how close they were to each other. He was still staring at her, more in amusement to her current embarrassment than anything else, eyes glittering with a knowing lustre. If only she knew what it was he was thinking in that squalid mind of his, she thought with a small smirk.
"Last night he spoke of having an appointment with father…" she murmured thoughtfully, recalling Terris' words from that night with a stifled yawn.
"That he does, but that is private matters between them." Hiroko sighed gently at her brother's reply as she rose from the bed, making sure the flimsy material did not slip before gathering her hair together at the side of her neck, walking over to and settling herself down before her extensive vanity table. Taking a small glance into the large mirror before her, she took in her appearance before raising a hand to her temple. The effects of last night's fine wine was not a pleasant one, in her opinion.
"Hiroko?" She glanced up, staring into the mirror again, taking in Naolin's reflection as he regarded a selection of her garments in one of her many dressers.
"Hmmm..?" she responded sweetly as her eyes slowly fell shut, aware of the faint drumming of a light headache at either side of her head.
"What do you intend to do with yourself today?"
"My miss-tempered head wishes me to indulge in some fresh air!" she retorted, amusement audible in every word and her smile spread. "And so I think I shall go out to do some light riding… if, that is, you permit it. Then I have a few later engagements!"
"Such as?" came the calm voice and she opened her eyes, watching as Naolin seemed to select a pale gown from the variety of items neatly arranged in her dresser and proceeded to place it on the bed. Apparently he thought this would suit her perfectly that day and she wasn't about to argue. After all, her brother had good taste!
"Firstly, Terris and myself have made arrangements to spend some time catching up. I have an appointment at the dressmaker's… though I really do not feel up to such time-consuming obligations. I really do just feel like riding today, so… that then leaves my afternoon free." Absentmindedly she ran a brush through her long hair, wincing slightly as the bristles caught on a section of knotted hair. That would teach her not to sleep with wet hair.
"Be careful with him, Hiroko!" came Naolin's concise voice from across the room; she glanced up as he came towards her with deft steps to rest a hand upon her shoulder. She frowned gently in confusion, staring expectantly up into the dark orbs above her.
"Of whom?"
"Terris told me of last night, told me everything. And so I tell you now. Be careful!"
"I see no reason why I should be. Was my purpose returning home just to be returned to my glass box? I went the ball to enjoy myself and I merely did just that!"
"You know that is not the case, dear sister. It's just that not everyone is like our or Terri's families. Such as the Guilliames see women as objects, tools… They are used and dismissed just as easily. I fear for your heart and your sincerity when in such company." Despite her slight irritation, Hiroko smiled, touched by his concern and affection. She truly was blessed, to be born into such a family as hers.
"You are too protective, brother!" she murmured dismissively, turning and lightly touching a hand to his cheek. Immediately Naolin's hand came up to cover her own, holding it there, as if savouring her touch. Perhaps it was time to change the subject… "You seem to be in fine spirits this morning; at the party too! That woman you danced with must have been quite something!"
"My dealings with Lady Isabelle are no concern for such a lady as yourself, my sister. But yes, I am in good sorts this morning." She frowned again, eyebrows lacing together, before dismissing his words as her attention fell onto the towel still wrapped around her, adjusting the top it as she felt it slip.
"You really do seem rather pleased with yourself though, Naolin, and it makes one wonder how the lady put you in such good spirits! After all, you were gone quite a while at the party."
"I wasn't the only one though, was I! Terris informs me that you disappeared for quite a while yourself. What, may I ask, was so important that you should venture off alone, un-chaperoned with the young Lord Guilliame? Not very proper, don't you think. What would father think!" The clarity in his voice spoke in volumes. It was clear what he was insinuating.
"If you are implying that something occurred between us you are mistaken! Lord Guimel was nothing but a perfect gentleman. So much so I wish to spend more time in his fine company. In fact I took it upon myself to invite him to afternoon tea. He, too, seems quite taken on the idea of seeing me again!"
"Made that big of an impression on him, did you? Not that I didn't expect you not to. Just be careful." How amazing, Hiroko thought, watching Naolin's expression and repeating his words in her mind. He and Terris really were so similar when it came down to such things. It was almost scary.
"Terris said much and such that same thing last night. You both seem to have a habit of disliking anyone who I find a genuine interest in. Now is it Lord Guilliame or just other men in general whom you disapprove in."
"Don't use that tongue with me, Hiroko. Remember your place! I think Asturia has allowed you to pick up some rather bad habits. Father and I know who is best for you. Do not be fooled by a handsome face, pretty words and sweet gestures. You will find most men see you for nothing but your money and body. Your brain and company are insignificant. Remember you are worth little to father if you allow some cavalier to take your chastity from you! Very few men of good title and land will accept used goods, if you understand my meaning?"
"Do you think I so easily wooed? I know my place in all this. I know what I'm doing."
"I don't think you do," came the smooth reply as Hiroko was gently pulled against her brother's tall form. "Lord Guilliame is very well practiced in such persuasion, or so I'm informed. He and many others of his kind… You have been away too long, Hiroko. You forget too easily!"
"And do you not think that I did not face such advances and suggestions in Asturia, Naolin?" she replied with mock defiance, her cheek pressed against his smooth chest, absently sighing as he stroked her hair affectionately. "I may be an innocent in this subject, but only in the act. I have seen and heard things too. You trusted me then not to give my innocence away… why not now. What has changed?"
"Zaibach and Asturia are very different"
"Strange, Terris spoke that too… before he attempted to drag me from the party," she murmured, a little resentfully.
"He would have had both mine and father's support on such a decision had he carried it out!"
"He said that as well! You two truly are turning into each other." Truly did no one trust her judgement? Guimel may have been a little bit… well a little more than a little unpredictable that night but he hadn't done anything more than she had permitted. If his intentions were so wrong then surely he would have acted on them. Wouldn't he? It was all so confusing.
"We know more on this matter than you do." Came the firm reply, once again his tone showing his concern, but a and finality in the conversation. " You know we only have your best interests at heart. You're lucky. Most families would have married you off as soon as you came of age. Father cares too much for you to do that. You are not a commodity to him, him or me!"
"I know!" she whispered, hand fisting the fabric of his shirt, sniffing slightly as she felt a light stinging in her eyes. "And I trust your decision, really I do. " She felt his arms tighten around her, his cheek pressing against her hair, eerily familiar to the same gesture by Guimel last night.
"You had better change, Hiroko." Naolin murmured gently, fingers weaving into her hair. "Go out for the afternoon… see a friend, shop… ride if that is what pleases you most. Just have some fun. Enjoy your freedom while you have it. It's barely past ten now; that leaves you plenty of time to talk to Terris. He's here till late. Father's invited him to dine with us tonight, so you can spend you day as you like, including your appointment with Lord Guilliame. Just remember both mine and Terris' words; though in the end you must rely on your own judgement!" A light kiss was placed against her brow before he pulled away, slowly making his way towards the chamber door.
"Whatever Lady Isabelle said or did last night, she should do so more often." Hiroko teased lightly, a small smile returning to her face, curving the corners of her lips as she moved back towards her bed. "You truly seem to be in a very favourable mood today!" Naolin, almost through her door, turned back, head poking through the gap there, a roguish grin curving his lips.
"I agree!" He replied smugly, his handsome features looking even more so ravishing than before. "She most definitely should!"
---
Guimel groaned, pulling the pillow over his aching head as the early morning sun shone brightly into his bedroom. He just had to drink with Kenneth until the end of the party, he thought sourly.
"Guimel!" his older brother, Robert, shouted from outside the bedroom door.
"Go away!" he shouted back, wincing as pain bolted through his head. He heard the door open and stifled another groan. "Can't we give the katas a miss this morning, Oniisan?" he said. Robert laughed.
"Up and at 'em, Brother!" he said and yanked the pillow from his head. "You don't want to dishonor the family when you join the military, ne?" Guimel opened an eye and stared up at him, scowling at the broad smile on the fair features. Robert was a stickler for routine and, being a couple years older than him, could easily haul him out of the bed and beat the crap out of him before bringing him to the exercise room. Guimel pulled himself into a sitting position, gripping his head in his hands. The stiff workout they did in the mornings would be just what he needed to cure this, he thought. That is, if he lived through it.
"Hey, what's this?" Robert smirked, picking up the folded note that Hiroko had sent to him at the party. Guimel ignored him as he got to his feet and stumbled over to the wardrobe, pulling open one of the lower drawers. He found his exercise outfit and yanked it on, yawning and trying to ignore his terrible headache. He stretched and turned about, giving Robert a half-smile.
"Just another conquest, Oniisan," he said lazily. Robert grinned at him, his green eyes sparkling.
"Hiroko? As in Duke Madeious' daughter? You do aim high." Guimel laughed, then groaned in pain as they walked out the room. Actually, he was looking forward to their katas, now that he was up. Robert had been his companion when they were younger, and Guimel missed the times they spent together, playing and exploring the capital city. Now Robert was with Father all the time, training to take over the family title, while he himself was immersed in learning the rules of court and now this military term he was scheduled to do. The emperor had given out a general call to the nobility to join the military, not mandatory, yet, but it looked good to respond and Guimel had been chosen by Father to fill the slot. Robert was too valuable and Georg, who had just turned thirteen rotations, was too young, as were the J's. The morning katas were about all the time he spent with Robert these days; he was suddenly very glad that his brother hadn't let him sleep in.
The two young men entered the exercise room, their younger brothers already there and starting their routines. Robert grinned again and grabbed a couple kendos, one of which he tossed to Guimel. They faced off and began an intricate kata that was more like a dance than an actual fight, just something to warm up with. Guimel's mind wandered as he lunged forward and danced back, his movements synchronized with his older brother's, thinking about Hiroko. His trepidation of the night before seemed ludicrous this morning; he smirked as he blocked Robert's kendo strike. It must have been the wine - it tended to make him sentimental. All things considered, he was progressing quite well: that note of hers had shut Kenneth up just as he was beginning to really lay into him about not having her when he had had all the opportunity in the world. Today should prove to be very interesting, and he would be able to tell Kenneth quite a story when they got together again.
---
Her hair, flowing lucidly behind her, shone brightly in the autumn light; each strand's colour gleaming and dancing as she pushed her horse into a steady canter. Every movement of the animal's body was matched by her own, synchronised in a well-practiced technique.
Despite being confined to the restrictions of the pasture, Hiroko took great pleasure in this activity, which she loved so much. The large animal, stalling for a brief moment, whinnied as it playfully reared, only to be corrected an instant later by the lady upon its back.
Her legs beneath the layers of her gown tightened around the girth, her hold on the reins gaining pressure and her heals pressing gently into the horse's sides. The highly strung gelding snorted in protest, his breath coming out in white puffs of air as he pawed the ground before breaking back into a fast, steady trot under instruction of his rider; though his spirit was clearly not quelled nor broken.
Hiroko laughed merrily; feeling the change in movement as her horse gaily pranced in light steps. Both of them seemed to be in high spirits, in need of the fresh air! Hiroko herself actually felt a little giddy… happy. Perhaps the air, like last night's wine, had gone to her head, she thought with an amused chuckle.
With a small glance up towards the family estate, Hiroko finally caught sight of her observer. In the west wing window of the châteaux, in the fathers study, she took note of the tall, striking figure standing there, seemingly leaning against the windows' wall, watching her. She waved lightly before turning her attention to her horse again. Perhaps she had better call it a day, she mused thoughtfully; glancing up again to find not only Terris' eyes on her but also her father's and she blushed under their scrutiny, though they clearly could not see it.
It was as she finished her last round that she noticed the servant advancing towards her, his head bowed low and his posture submissive and she had to stop herself from laughing. It really was strange to be home. In Asturia, sure the servants acted in a similar way but never to this extent. Once again it was something she would have to get used to.
"Milady…" she heard his plaintive call as he neared her; she, in turn, slowing the horse she rode to a halt.
"Yes?" she replied politely, smiling brightly down at the elder man.
"Milady, there's a gentleman to see you. He says you know of his coming." He handed her a small piece of paper, the very same sheet she had given that young servant last night and she smiled, eyes running over the familiar name and writing.
"Very well then," she spoke sweetly, smile never faltering. "Let him be admitted. Inform him I will be with him." The servant looked up at her, though he refused to make eye contact with her.
"Milady…"
"Yes?" she replied again, silently laughing in amusement.
"He's already here!" he said quietly and turned to the left of where he had come, drawing her attention to the not-so-distant form by the pasture's entrance and once again she found herself with a fine shade of pink across her cheeks. Strangely enough she had a sneaking suspicion this day was going to be, like last night, rather interesting and enjoyable!
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