Veela ran across the street, carrying her dress similar to how a princess would. Drawing eyes from the crowd she headed to the central main cathedral that rested in Puertomarino. Thoughts raced around her.
Please let this be someone else!
Passing through street after street she finally reached the main door, she immediately found the nearest sister and questioned her about the whereabouts of the healing quarters.
"Sister, where's the healing quarters?!" Veela asked frantically, catching the sister off guard.
"Um it's down the corridor on the left wing of the cathedral but are you hurt anywhere?"
"I'm fine sister, I just need to see if someone is down there or not."
"Are you a family member?" The sister stared at the green eyed women.
"No, I'm a family friend," Veela replied, her eyes fixed on the corridor ahead. However, just as she was about to proceed, the sister gently tugged at Veela's dress, preventing her from escaping.
"Unfortunately, only family members or those who are sufficiently injured are allowed to enter the healing ward."
"But I—" Veela began, feeling a wave of defeat wash over her. She knew that no argument she made would convince the sister to grant her access to the healing ward. Just as despair started to set in, she heard a familiar voice calling out to her.
"Ah, Veela, what brings you here?"
Turning to face the voice, she saw an elderly man in priestly robes, his senile face smiling warmly at her.
"Ah, Father Pedro, I'm here to see if Rosa is in the healing ward."
The father scratched his chin thoughtfully. "I'm not aware of anyone by that name, but I will allow you to enter the healing ward and check for yourself."
"Father?!" the nun exclaimed, her eyes wide with surprise. Father Pedro turned to her and gently assured her with a calm demeanor.
"Veela is a trustworthy person. Her father has always been a generous donor to the temple, so it wouldn't be asking too much for her to check on an old friend."
The sister looked downwards before bowing respectfully to the father.
"In that case, how about I escort you to the healing ward?"
"I would be delighted, Father Pedro," Veela said, bowing respectfully. The duo then made their way to the left wing.
Passing by several priests and sisters, they made their way to the door of the healing ward, adorned with a symbol showcasing the four great gods of the past. Father Pedro opened the door, revealing a vast hall filled with hundreds of beds, each occupied by the injured and sick. Dozens of magic casters moved among them, healing people in droves.
"Now, Veela, do you mind describing this Rosa person?"
Veela turned to Father Pedro. "She has reddish-brown hair, and she's a middle-aged woman."
Father Pedro noted Veela's description before signaling to one of the casters for assistance.
"Is there a woman named Rosa under our care?" Father Pedro asked.
The magic caster bowed respectfully. "Yes, Father. May I escort you to her?"
They followed the caster to a bed where a woman was sitting upright. The sight weighed heavily on Veela's heart.
There on the bed was Rosa, her hair gone. While the healers had done a commendable job on her physical appearance, Veela could sense they hadn't been able to heal the turmoil within Rosa. Beside the bed sat Mateo, slumped in a chair, unmoving like a statue.
Rosa looked at Veela, noticing her quiet presence, and smiled weakly.
"Hi, Veela. It's been some time. Sorry you had to see me like this."
Veela fought back tears, struggling to maintain her composure. She gently took Rosa's hand and looked into her eyes.
"Rosa, none of that matters. What happened to you?"
"I... I'm not sure. All I remember is that I was playing with Mateo, then I heard a knock. The next thing I knew, I woke up here at the temple."
Veela's expression turned to concern as she glanced at the young Mateo, who sat quietly in his chair.
"And Mateo? Is he doing alright?"
Rosa glanced at the young boy before turning back to Veela with a sorrowful expression.
"He's physically fine, but he's been traumatized. He won't even speak to me. Whatever he saw explains my predicament."
Rosa sighed and pulled the quilt closer for comfort. "Strangely, nothing was stolen. It was as if someone wanted to make me suffer. I asked the paladins about it, and they suspect it could be the work of a demon."
"Maybe, but at least you're safe now. You don't need to worry about anything else. Just rest, Rosa. I'll take care of the rest," Veela replied, gently resting her palm on Rosa's shoulder. Rosa fought back tears before making a request.
"If you can, take Mateo with you. I should be discharged soon; the healers just need to do a quick check-up."
"Alright, Rosa. I'll make sure he has a good time. Maybe I'll take him to a few dress shops. I'm sure he'd look magnificent with a tiara," Veela chuckled, successfully lightening the mood. Rosa managed a good chuckle before her gaze returned to her blanket, her thoughts drifting.
Not wanting to press further, Veela gently picked up Mateo. Taking his hand, she was taken aback by his unresponsive demeanor, contrary to Rosa's earlier assurances. Normally, Mateo would eagerly resist or show excitement, his liveliness a defining trait. Now, he offered only a limp reaction and a hollow expression that unsettled Veela deeply. This wasn't the Mateo she knew. Summoning her courage, she bid farewell to Rosa.
"Goodbye, Rosa. When I return, Mateo will be his cheerful self again." Veela said, hoping her words would sound more reassuring but realizing they fell flat. Rosa nodded in understanding. Veela left the temple with Mateo holding her hand, expressing gratitude to both the healers and the paladins who had assisted Rosa.
Before they could depart, Father Pedro intercepted Veela.
"Leaving so soon, Veela? I was just about to bring out my special tea."
Veela bowed respectfully, noticing Mateo staring blankly at the ground. Father Pedro quickly added, "I also have some new toys for the children. I'm sure the young one would enjoy them."
Veela giggled at his offer before politely declining, "No thank you, Father. Mateo could use some fresh air."
He frowned before stepping closer to Veela and whispered in her ear.
"Veela, the healers haven't found any physical abnormalities; she's fully recovered. However, her memory loss remains unexplained." He scoffed softly. "Not only that, the Paladin order confirmed there was no magical presence in her home during the assault. The likelihood of demonic involvement is very low. Be cautious."
Veela felt a wave of anxiety and nodded in understanding before leaving the temple. Father Pedro waved goodbye to both of them. Still troubled by Father Pedro's information, Veela slapped her forehead in frustration.
Now's not the time to worry about that. My biggest concern should be finding a place for Mateo.
Veela made up her mind. The first stop would be the bakeries. She knew Mateo would surely enjoy some sweets.
Leaving the cathedral's staircase behind, she entered the bustling marketplace, her eyes scanning the various bakery storefronts.
"Ah, here it is!"
Fergouts Bakery stood prominently among the shops in Puertomarino, renowned for its quality and even endorsed by the Old Purple as one of the best bakeries he had ever tasted. Veela stepped into the storefront, surprised by the line of customers waiting inside.
"I guess having the famous Old Purple endorse your store really boosts sales."
Veela joined the line, which extended outside the store, only to notice a sign that caught her attention.
"VIP Lounge? When did stores start offering something like that?"
She decided to break away from the line, making sure to take Mateo with her. The people in line quickly filled her spot. Veela then approached the entrance of the VIP lounge, where she was stopped by a female clerk.
"Please show your membership pass."
Veela wasn't entirely surprised by the requirement; after all, VIP areas were typically exclusive.
"A membership pass? Where can I get one, and how much does it cost?"
The clerk held up a finger. "A membership pass is just one gold coin. Your child is exempt from this, of course."
One gold coin for a permanent membership? That's not too bad, Veela thought.
Veela reached into her purse and presented a gold coin to the clerk.
"Here you go. And just to clarify, he's not my child, but a friend."
The clerk blushed slightly, understanding Veela's remark, and handed over a Fergouts VIP pass. She then gestured for Veela and Mateo to proceed up the stairwell to the upper floor of the store.
The VIP lounge of Fergouts Bakery was a sanctuary of luxury amid the bustling marketplace of Puertomarino. As Veela and Mateo ascended the narrow stairwell, they emerged into a cozy chamber adorned with plush velvet curtains and wooden beams intricately carved with floral motifs. Soft candlelight flickered from ornate sconces mounted on the stone walls, casting a warm glow over the room.
In one corner, a small hearth crackled gently, filling the air with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread. Low tables crafted from polished oak were scattered around the room, each set with linen napkins and delicate porcelain plates. Cushioned benches lined the perimeter, draped with rich tapestries depicting scenes of pastoral life and mythical creatures.
In the midst of the luxurious VIP lounge, a large round table took center stage, adorned with an impressive spread of freshly baked pastries, pies, and breads elegantly presented on silver trays. Nearby, a well-appointed serving station offered an array of fine wines, meads, and steaming pots of herbal teas and aromatic coffees, adding to the ambience of opulence and refinement.
Veela couldn't help but be impressed by the room's extravagance, even by her own standards. While she didn't recognize every guest, a few familiar faces caught her eye. One guest in particular, however, stood out among the rest, his shiny armor gleaming under the ambient light.
"One more plate, please! These cupcakes are heavenly!" a loud, rough voice boomed as a red-haired knight called out to the waitress, who nervously served him.
It was Sir Terrey, a familiar acquaintance to Veela from his frequent visits to procure merchandise, especially armaments and imported magical gear. Spotting Veela, he exclaimed, "Veela's here too? You've got to try these cake slices!" He laughed heartily, while Veela sighed inwardly and approached him.
"Well, this is quite unexpected, seeing you here, Sir Terrey. I would have thought you'd be too deep in your cups by now," Veela remarked, brushing a strand of hair from her face.
"Today is a special day. I've met someone intriguing, and I'm celebrating with these sweets," Sir Terrey replied, a glint of enthusiasm in his eyes that suggested more than just a passing interest.
"Met someone?" Veela retorted with a hint of sarcasm. She noticed Sir Terrey setting his cupcake down on its plate, his demeanor suddenly serious, catching her off guard.
"It was a black knight. He won the duel and is on his way to becoming part of Old Purple's personal retinue," Sir Terrey explained.
Veela knew about the annual tournament held to select knights worthy of serving the lord, but she couldn't quite grasp what made this particular knight so exceptional.
"He was something else, Veela. He defeated a knight without using martial arts. I've never seen anything like it before. The way he ended the fight was absurd too; only Old Purple clapped while the rest of us and the audience were too shocked to react."
Veela's eyebrows shot up at the description of this black knight. She quickly questioned, "Perhaps this knight is a demi-human? I can't see how it would be possible to defeat a human knight without using martial arts."
"True, but we don't have any evidence for that. Anyway, I feel sorry for your kid next to you. He must be bored out of his mind."
Veela interjected quickly, "He's not my—"
"But seriously, Veela, you'd make a terrible mother. You should probably give him up to the church."
[Dirty]
A spell was cast, sending a spray of dirt onto Terrey's armor and cape. Despite the unexpected mess, he remained composed.
"See, this is why you'd make a terrible mother," Terrey calmly remarked.
Veela sighed, brushing off the dirt from Terrey's armor. "As I've been trying to tell you, he's not my child; he belongs to Rosa. I've been asked to look after him for the time being."
Sir Terrey swiftly slid a plate filled with cupcakes toward the young boy before attempting a light-hearted joke.
"Your mom is quite stubborn—" He paused abruptly, catching the intense gaze of the young boy. The eyes reflected trauma, fear, and a hint of anger, leaving Terrey momentarily speechless.
"Veela, what did this young boy go through?"
Veela cast her gaze downward, a somber expression crossing her features. "His mother was attacked by something. He's been like this ever since."
"I see…" Sir Terrey paused, his voice softened with concern. "Tell me more, Veela."
He guided both Veela and Mateo to a nearby chair, settling them down as Veela recounted the harrowing ordeal that had befallen Mateo and his mother. Sir Terrey listened intently, his expression growing solemn as he processed the details.
"I'll look into this. A young boy shouldn't be going through that," Sir Terrey declared with determination. He then picked up a cupcake, holding it gently in front of Mateo's mouth, a gesture meant to offer comfort and distraction.
"Say ahh." Sir Terrey coaxed, offering the cupcake to Mateo, who hesitated before turning away. With a resigned sigh, Sir Terrey turned to Veela.
"Mateo would never eat from your hand; you look far too scary and dirty."
"Come on, Veela, what did I do?" He shrugged. "Anyway, I'll be leaving soon." Sir Terrey motioned to the waitress. "Give these two the Fergouts special; it's on me." He placed several coins on the table before departing. Veela thanked him, and Sir Terrey waved a casual farewell as he walked away.
Minutes later, the Fergouts special arrived—a golden cake adorned with golden apples around a central chocolate pillar. Veela eagerly indulged in large slices, savoring the gift, while Mateo nibbled cautiously.
"It doesn't taste…"
Veela heard a faint whisper and looked around, only to see Mateo, for the first time, speaking aloud.
"It doesn't taste…" He swallowed hard, a tear escaping down his cheek. Veela quickly embraced him, holding back her own tears as she expected Mateo to cry, but he remained stoic. She wiped his cheek gently and said softly,
"Guess this place isn't what you expected."
She swiftly instructed the waitress to pack up the remaining treats from Fergouts before they left the VIP lounge, Mateo in tow. Stepping into the central plaza, Veela pondered where to take Mateo for entertainment. Her gaze fell upon a shop that exuded glamor—a clothing boutique specializing in dresses.
"No, there's no way Mateo would enjoy that. Boys hate shopping," Veela mused aloud, recalling how her younger brother Tavion despised shopping, especially for clothes.
Then, a mischievous thought crossed her mind—an excuse, perhaps, to indulge in some shopping of her own.
Maybe if I made Mateo try on a dress, it would at least get a reaction out of him.
Clearing her thoughts she entered the shop, a relatively large size building littered with clothing of all sizes attached to clothing racks. Veela's first move was to bother the clerk at the central desk.
"Hi there, is there anything that would suit this young lad here?"
Veela patted Mateo's back, hoping for any reaction, but he remained stoic and silent. The clerk, confused by Mateo's lack of response, looked to Veela for guidance. Veela leaned in and whispered something in the clerk's ear, prompting the clerk to swiftly lead Mateo to the nearest changing room.
Several moments later, the clerk reappeared with Mateo, now dressed in a pink dress. Nearby clerks watched with amusement, curious about the unfolding situation.
The pink dress selected for Mateo was made from a fine, soft fabric that shimmered subtly in the dim light of the clothing shop. It was tailored with loose, flowing sleeves and a bodice that gently hugged the figure without being overly restrictive. The neckline was modest yet elegant, adorned with delicate embroidery in silver thread that traced floral patterns along the edges. The skirt cascaded down in gentle folds, reaching just below Mateo's knees, allowing for ease of movement.
The dress was adorned with small pearl buttons along the sleeves and down the back, adding a touch of refinement. Its soft pink hue, not too bright nor too pale, complemented Mateo's complexion and gave him an unexpectedly gentle appearance amidst the robust surroundings of the shop.
Veela, however, felt disappointed by Mateo's lack of reaction. He stood there impassively, staring blankly at the ground. Veela sighed softly, signaling to the clerk to help Mateo change back into his regular clothing. Meanwhile, she headed towards the changing rooms herself, selecting a dress from one of the racks.
After a while, Veela emerged in a new outfit befitting the higher echelons of society, one that would have been suitable for royal balls. The gown she wore drew the admiration of the clerks in the shop. Approaching Mateo with a flourish, she held out her hands before him.
Veela's green dress was a masterpiece of tailoring, designed to catch the eye and exude elegance. The fabric, a rich emerald green satin, shimmered softly under the ambient light, reflecting hints of gold and silver thread woven into intricate patterns. The gown featured a bodice that was fitted yet not constricting, adorned with delicate lace and embroidery along the neckline and sleeves.
The neckline itself was slightly plunging, a daring but tasteful choice that hinted at Veela's confidence and status. The sleeves, long and flowing, cascaded gracefully down her arms, tapering to fitted cuffs embellished with small, iridescent pearls. The dress accentuated Veela's slender figure, cinched at the waist with a wide silk sash of a lighter shade of green, embroidered with floral motifs in golden thread.
The skirt billowed out from the waist in luxurious folds, pooling elegantly around Veela's feet as she moved. Each step she took caused the skirt to sway and shimmer, drawing attention to the intricate craftsmanship and the fine quality of the fabric. The back of the dress dipped into a gentle V shape, adding a touch of allure without compromising modesty.
"A beautiful lady has come to ask you for a dance, Mateo. Will you accept her offer?" she said playfully, hoping to see a spark of reaction from him. Veela had anticipated that Mateo might be at an age where he would blush or show interest in girls, but to her disappointment, Mateo continued to stare blankly at her. She sighed softly, retreating back to the changing room to switch back into her original attire.
Deciding against purchasing the gown, Veela and Mateo left the store and made their way to the central plaza. As they walked, they noticed a large crowd gathering ahead, piquing their curiosity.
Ah this must be the celebration for that new knight.
Veela scanned the bustling crowd, recognizing the celebration for the new knight. Spotting Adelina and Tavion among the gathered throng, she moved towards them quietly, aiming to surprise Tavion. However, he sensed her approach and swiftly turned to confront her.
"Well, Veela, what brings you here? I thought you were supposed to be looking after Mateo?" Tavion's concern for Mateo was evident as he glanced towards the boy, then back at Veela, awaiting an explanation.
"At least take him somewhere joyful, maybe buy him something nice," Tavion snorted, his disapproval evident. "Honestly, what a waste of your allowance."
Veela bristled at her brother's criticism, but she quickly formulated a sharp retort. "Well, if you think you can do better, why don't you look after Mateo? I doubt you'd even think to treat him to sweets."
Their exchange was tense, each holding their ground until Adelina intervened. "Now, now, Tavion, Veela is doing her best. Let's not argue in front of Mateo."
Adelina's calm intervention diffused the tension smoothly. She understood their shared concern and frustration over Mateo's situation.
However, their brief respite was interrupted by the sudden cheers and admiration from the crowd. The four of them turned to see a parade of Knights of Old Purple, accompanied by men with trumpets. The center of attention was a chariot drawn by four horses, carrying two men. Veela presumed them to be the victors of Old Purple's contest, where the prize included a chance to join his retinue. Yet, she knew well that Old Purple had the final say on who joined him, regardless of the tournament's outcome.
Veela's attention was captured by the two winners of the parade. One wore a traditional noble's attire, complete with a sword at his side. The other, however, drew Veela's gaze more intensely.
The black knight, adorned with intricate gold patterns on his armor that resembled a crown, stood out amidst the procession. He carried a blade on his left hip and a hand shield on his arm. Veela understood why Sir Terrey had been so captivated by him; there was an aura of mystique and power surrounding the knight that intrigued her deeply. She felt a strange fascination with him, sensing that he was more than just a skilled warrior, though she couldn't quite pinpoint what it was.
Before Veela could ponder further, she felt a sharp tug on her right arm. Mateo, beside her, was now shaking uncontrollably.
"Mateo, are you alright?" Veela asked in concern, her heart sinking as she heard him speak for the first time, pointing trembling fingers at the black knight.
"B-b-black monster," Mateo blurted out in fear, tears streaming down his face as he buried his head against Veela's side. Nearby eyes from the crowd, along with Tavion and Adelina, gathered around them.
"What happened, Veela?" Adelina asked urgently, motioning for Tavion to stand by her.
Veela lifted Mateo, who continued to sob uncontrollably. She used her handkerchief to wipe away his tears as she hurriedly led them away from the crowd, Tavion and Adelina following close behind. Glancing down at Mateo, still pointing at the black knight with a look of horror, Veela couldn't shake a chilling thought.
Black monster? Why would Mateo say that? And what did he mean by 'he's back'?
She looked back at the black knight and suddenly realized the truth. Mateo was identifying the knight as the black monster responsible for Rosa's attack. If that were true, justice could only be sought through one avenue she knew of.
"The Holy Paladin Order," Veela murmured to herself, her mind racing with the implications.