5. Chapter 5
5
I went to the musty library, eager to search for any records or accounts regarding the King's Match. Yet, with each passing hour of fruitless searching, my disappointment grew into frustration. It became clear that Jesri had intentionally kept this information from me, just as he had with so many other things. He always kept me in the dark, controlling what I knew, feeding me only the scraps of knowledge he deemed necessary. It was his way of ensuring that I would always have to come to him, rely on him, and be chained to him.
Jesri's influence permeated every aspect of my life like a shadow I could never escape. He manipulated the world around me, crafting a cage of ignorance and dependence. The King's Match was just one more secret he held over me, another way to tighten the chains that bound me to him. As I sifted through dusty and brittle pages, the bitter realization sank in: I knew nothing about the King's Match or anything else of real importance because Jesri had made sure of it. He wanted me powerless, reliant on his every word, and ensuring that I remained under his control. For too long, I had been ensnared in his web, blind to the world beyond the confines he set for me.
Instead of the answers I sought, I did, however, find tales of ancient heroic Magics and the dark shadows that lurked within the kingdom's history, one of which was the archaic Magics called Spellcasters. I huffed out, slamming the book shut at the dark fables Jesri kept, thinking such thing as odd, and realized that the sun had dipped lower, prompting me to hurry back to my room to get ready for the party.
Through the large crystal windows, I saw the breathtaking courtyard with flowers adorning tables laden with an array of pastries, meats, fruits, vegetables, and wine. The musicians had arrived, meticulously arranging their instruments beneath the flowered banner. In the distance, the servants bustled about in the greenhouse, gently cradling butterflies designed to be released at the commencement of the celebration—a moment I cherished above all because it was the one night Jesri let me be free. As I ascended, inhaling the warm, earthy air, my anticipation heightened, knowing that Aoife waited with that stunning dress.
Aoife helped me into the vibrant light blue dress; each layer of chiffon fabric flowed effortlessly and shimmered with a mesmerizing sparkle. The bodice sparkled with intricate crystals that glimmered like miniature constellations, casting radiant light beams in the golden sun. The long sheer sleeves billowed softly, trimmed with a delicate white lace hem that mirrored the neckline.
She dusted my lips with matte pink powder and lined my lashes with charcoal, illuminating my gray-blue eyes to echo the vibrant blue of the gown. She wove a delicate white flower crown and rested it atop my dark auburn hair, which was kept in a long curtain of loose curls.
I couldn't deny feeling more attractive than ever, and I was determined to counteract the rumors and lies that portrayed me as a naive, boyish orphan taken in by Jesri out of charity. Despite his claims of goodwill, Jesri never missed an opportunity to remind me of every derogatory rumor he heard about his so-called pitiful ward.
I hurried down the back stairs that led out behind the estate and stepped through the doors into the courtyard. The space buzzed with activity as guests arrived in wide-brimmed hats adorned with feathers, sleek trousers, fitted tunics, and gowns in every pastel shade. Musicians played melodic symphonies while servants moved through the crowd, offering platters filled with wines, teas, lemonades, and various foods.
Hiding in the shelter of the estate's west corner, I pressed against the weathered brown plaster wall, scanning the crowd for Calum's distinctive golden hair among the guests. Unable to spot him and suppressing my disappointment, I took a deep breath and ventured into the lively gathering.
I lifted my head higher, walking tall into the bustling crowd as my focus shifted to Sir Alder, seated by the gardens in a deep conversation with Lord Winslow while several ladies nearby tried to catch his eye. I couldn't suppress my laugh at the view. And despite the split lip I had given him earlier, he still looked dashing in his cream-colored suit, which contrasted beautifully against his hazelnut skin.
Perhaps it was Sir Alder who would be my oracle of information for this tournament, considering he so willingly gave me the most significant secret Jesri kept hidden for years.
"Sir Alder," I said, interjecting his conversation with the rakish Lord Winslow, who eyed me up and down with pleasure as he did with any young girl who gave him any notice beyond his wealth. I held back my discomfort, looking solely at Sir Alder's emerald-blue eyes.
"Would you do me the honor and accompany me for the opening?" I asked, smoothly laying on the flattery. I was determined to coax any information from him.
Sir Alder uncrossed his legs and flashed me a grin, revealing his pearly smile.
"Of course, my lady," he replied, rising from his seat. "It was a pleasure conversing with you, my Lord," he added to Lord Winslow, who gave me a disgusting sensual smile.
Sir Alder extended his arm, and I took it, noticing the sour expressions on the faces of the ladies nearby. Suppressing my grin, I leaned into his side, barely containing my satisfaction.
"Are you enjoying yourself, Sir Alder?" I felt his arm muscles tense beneath my hand.
"Please, only Levon," he said, adjusting his suit with a slight smile. "And yes, Jesri's estate is quite something. The people here are certainly lively."
We both glanced around at the numerous ladies, each trying to capture attention with practiced grace. I couldn't help but let out an airy laugh.
"You're the new face here, Levon. Consider yourself fortunate I stepped in when I did. Otherwise, you'd be swamped with questions and unwelcome touches, making it impossible to enjoy the excellent food Jesri is known for."
Levon's lips curled into a teasing smirk. "And it seems my swollen lip only adds to the entertainment, doesn't it?"
"You deserved it," I added, looking down my nose. "But I suppose you've redeemed yourself with that information this morning."
His brows raised, barely glancing at me. A slight smirk played at the corner of his lips as we made our way toward the front podium, crafted from fine cedar wood and painted a pristine white. Surrounding the podium were rows upon rows of flowers, mirroring the vibrant blooms that flourished in the courtyard. Pastel ribbons and delicate laces were strung at each end, softly billowing in the gentle breeze, adding a whimsical touch to the already enchanting scene.
Jesri walked up the podium with several servants following closely behind with their cartons full of butterflies. The sun dipped lower towards the horizon, casting a warm glow and painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. It was warmer than usual, and I relished the thought of summer's hot air, grateful for the warmth to train in rather than the biting cold. Jesri waited for the other party guests to fill the space around us, smiling brightly.
"Welcome, my dear friends!" Jesri boomed, lifting his hands into the air. Cheers and clapping followed. I glanced around, hoping to catch sight of Calum, realizing that this would be among the first without our customary dance at the release. A twinge of sadness settled in my chest, hoping our odd encounter earlier wasn't the cause of his disappearance.
Levon noticed the shift in my sunken shoulders and smiled gently.
"Today heralds the dawn of another chapter, a chance for fresh beginnings," Jesri proclaimed, his voice carrying across the crowd. "It is a day to honor the Creator and seek the blessings for another year abundant with growth. Growth as lush as the blooming flowers and resilient as the towering trees, bearing fruit as plentiful as the ripest berries. It's a day we cherish for new friendships," he paused for dramatics. "And for new lovers." People in the crowd whistled and hollered.
Levon looked down at me with raised brows and then out to the ladies, snickering and pointing. I couldn't stop a dramatic eye roll and felt good, for once, to be seen with a handsome bachelor among all these shallow people who had detested me for being unconventional. And now, with the new bachelor in town, I felt…different with him at my side. Somehow, I found myself grateful for all those grueling days of training, pushing my body to its limits and growing stronger. Despite the circumstances not being what I had hoped for, it was a welcome change to feel something other than self-pity.
"Today is a day for us all to embrace a clean slate and harvest our past selves by taking this new year to flourish into something greater!" Jesri continued.
He cast a glance at the servants, signaling to them. "Let the festivities commence!" With a sweep of his raised hands, thousands of golden butterflies spilled from the large cartons, filling the orange sky with specks of glittering gold and sparkling stars. A chorus of cheers and laughter erupted as the musicians struck up their festive tunes.
Levon released my arm and extended his hand toward the sky, captivated by the mesmerizing dance of the butterfly wings. A delighted sigh escaped my lips as I reached up to touch the fluttering creatures and twirl amidst the golden magic of their shimmer. His hand clasped mine, and together, we spun in joyful ease, our laughter blending with the cheers of the crowd, enchanted with delight, and I hoped this mask was enough to coax information out of him.
We cheered on, immersed in the shimmering spectacle, until most of the butterflies drifted off toward the horizon, leaving only a few lingering to keep us company. I felt utterly alive and connected to who I was meant to be and allowed myself to let go of the weight of the inevitable for the moment.
"That was the most thrilling thing I have yet to experience," Levon said, excitement evident in his voice. I snapped back to pretending and chuckled, giving him a tight smile before taking his arm once again.
"Just wait until you taste the pastries."
I don't believe my stomach ever hurt from laughing as hard as I did after a little too much wine that tasted like peaches and seeing Levon's face after each bite of confections, thinking perhaps he wasn't as bad as I thought.
These pastries were undoubtedly the finest yet: tarts drizzled with a rogue spice that pricked the tongue, exotic berry-filled bonbons with the creamiest chocolate that melted like butter, candied fruit with a syrupy sweetness, and orange mille-feuille that moved our bodies into an alluring trance.
I settled into the wired chair, savoring the moment. It had been a while since I felt this happy and unburdened, finally liberated from Jesri's threatening gaze for the night. Reflecting on my life, I wasn't sure why I had allowed myself to be manipulated by him for so long.
What was I so afraid of?
Encouraged by the graceful dance of the butterflies and Jesri's speech, a newfound resolve began to swell within me. I vowed not to let my past continue to dominate me. It was time to reclaim control of my life, starting with this upcoming match.
"You're thinking about something?" Levon prodded, his words slightly slurred as he collapsed into the chair beside me, his breath heavy with the scent of peach wine.
"Perhaps you should stick to lemonade for now; you wouldn't want to miss the dancing and the grand finale."
He chuckled softly, his enticing gaze locking with mine. "Would it surprise you that I've only had two drinks? I'm not usually one to indulge, but when I do, it tends to strike me harder than most."
"Truly?" I said, surprised. "I didn't consider you to be so sober."
"Being on guard," he paused, leaning in closer and speaking in a hushed tone. "For certain things is necessary."
I narrowed my eyes. There was clearly more to him than he or Jesri were revealing. "Like what things ?" I pressed, pretending to sip more of my wine.
"Like those who demand to know more than they should," he sat up straighter, straightening his overcoat. "I'm no fool to this flirtatious plan of yours, my lady. You won't get the information you want from me."
I clenched my jaw, struggling to restrain the vulgar retort, itching to escape. "I think the wine is getting to your head," I retorted, turning to view the crowd mingling in the golden sun.
"Care to escort me for a dance?" he said, standing and extending a hand.
"No," I said, folding my arms across my chest. "Not unless you tell me some thing first."
He winked with amusement. "Your golden-eyed courtier won't take issue with me holding you close if I do share something?"
I stood up, surprised by his forwardness.
"I can surely tell you he is not courting me," I snapped. Yet, Calum's absence made my stomach twist with unease. He adored parties, especially this one, and his absence filled me with worry despite my guilt of longing for him.
He grinned. "Well, I can surely tell you, he might think otherwise. And that is the thing I will tell you."
I scowled at him as he took my arm and guided us across the stone floor, where several couples swayed to the music. The warm breeze tousled my hair, carrying fragrant floral scents from the vibrant forest beyond.
Levon gracefully took my hand and placed his other on my waist. As the other ladies watched us, I noticed a few resentful looks as he pulled me in closer, prompting me to tilt my head away, only for him to flash a smile.
"We'll be getting much closer when training starts," he mused, only loud enough for me to hear.
"You've accepted me that quickly?" I tested, irritable as his directness and ownership.
The corners of his mouth tugged up. "I'm eager to see you in action, beyond just dancing in flour," he winked. His bright eyes sparkled with anticipation, likely for whatever he had planned for tomorrow.
I glared at him and took my skirts in my free hand as we swayed to the rhythm of the music. It was like swordplay but with much less finesse and came more gracefully. I held my head high and gently stepped into each turn and swirl, acting much more ladylike than I did on most days. I let the music take us away, dancing easier than we had earlier this morning. Maybe I would enjoy his company.
"Tell me more about how you and Jesri became acquainted," I asked as we briefly parted before joining hands once more, following the other couples dancing.
"We met a few years past at a tavern in Bricol," he began, his expression growing weary. I waited for him to continue, but he fell silent. Why would Jesri be in Bricol? His business travels typically took him to the seaports, not inland.
"I thought you said you didn't drink? Then again, you were there as a," I paused for dramatics. "Guiding light, was it?"
He laughed. "I was recently transferred and…in pain," he paused, trying to think of words. "I thought a drink or two would be enough to dull my senses. Yet Jesri was more of a guiding light for me, helping me home after I got into a lousy brawl with a wretched man who—" he stopped, realizing he was saying too much. "It doesn't matter now. Jesri and I stayed in connection every so often and prepared for things."
"Things like me?" I said with annoyance. He only nodded, not giving me more foolish information. "What was Jesri doing in Bricol?"
"You ask too many questions, my lady."
"Maybe I ask questions because I hate feeling weak," I confessed, sensing my words resonated with him. He straightened slightly, gracefully guiding me through the dance, and pulled me close, stealing my breath. He leaned in, his breath tickling my ear. "If you prove yourself in tomorrow's training, I'll share what information I can. I understand what it's like to feel vulnerable. Things may not always appear as they seem, but it's for your own safety and success," he whispered, pulling back and twirling me again.
I shook my head, confused. "You're speaking in riddles," I said with annoyance.
"Your first riddle, Eliah, is to learn what it takes to survive."
The song ended, and he bowed low, gently kissing my fingers. He strode away towards the group of ladies swooning for him, leaving me at its center in complete bewilderment.
Survive? That's what my training has been all my life: to survive. What more could a match be than to survive? I grumbled in frustration, angry that I failed to coax anything out of him.
Gathering my skirts, I walked towards a maid with a platter of drinks. I took some lemonade and tapped on the maid's sleeve. "Have you seen Calum anywhere?"
The maid's plump cheeks went red at the mention of Cal. I forced down a roll of my eyes. She shook her head, "Sorry, my lady, I have not."
I gulped down the drink and placed it back on the plate, smiling at her before finding a place to hide until the finale.
"With heartfelt gratitude, I thank you for celebrating our new beginnings and growth. As friends and family, let us rejoice!" Jesri's voice boomed, accompanied by the explosion of cannons, showering the sky with colorful powder that settled on the pathways below, symbolizing the planting of our new seeds, much like the butterflies, heralding new life. Cheers echoed through the air as the crowd began to disperse, strolling through the powder and allowing the vibrant hues to cling to their shoes in hopes of new promises. Amidst the crowd, I spotted Levon surrounded by ladies, giggling and swooning over his now colorful suit.
The buzz of laughter and chatter slowly dimmed into the rattle of carriages and hooves.
I moved to help clean up some misplaced glasses on a few tables when a maid intercepted me, insisting I stop, especially on my founding day. I scowled at her, dismissing birthdays as trivial and holding no significance for me beyond being a day I was left forgotten.
Yet, she persisted, and I departed with a nod, seeking solace within the estate after the party's uproar. Upon entering my room, I saw a crumpled bag on my bed. I exhaled audibly, hoping it wasn't Aoife's attempt at gifting me something—she knew I hated celebrating. I cautiously untied it and peered inside, revealing a lush lavender shawl adorned with intricate threads, creating a swirling pattern like the sea's tides. Resting atop the shawl was a small note:
The tree. Midnight.
Cal
I crumpled the note and lifted the shawl, its fabric carrying his lingering scent. It was thick and warm, with small threads hanging from each trim.
Today marks my eighteenth year, thus making it three years since Jesri forbade us from visiting our tree together, where we used to go after every Spring Harvest or whenever we needed solace, and wish upon the stars for our friendship and a brighter future beyond our dreary lives. Yet, year after year, those stars never granted my wishes, especially not for comfort regarding my lost parents. So, I stopped believing in and visiting the tree altogether, making Jesri's demand all too easy to accept. Yet, I still kept staring at the stars from my window, obtaining comfort from them despite how far away they were.
At least I never had the chance to meet my parents, making it easier to move on, unlike Calum, who never ceased to yearn for his parents' return. They sent him away to a boarding school while they ventured off to explore the world, leaving only a note for Jesri, Calum's only remaining family, stating they had embarked on a sailing journey to the East Ulvery Sea and wouldn't return until the following Winter.
Two years later, Jesri received a letter stating that Calum's parents were not returning, and knowing the burden of boarding school, he took Calum in. I still recall the day Calum received the news, seeing the weight of his world vanish within a few words. He stayed in his room for two weeks, becoming sickly and hollow. It was then that Jesri insisted he train with me, and it was during those sessions that our friendship formed. I was thirteen at the time; Cal was almost fifteen.
He was blessed with attractiveness, capable of captivating anyone who crossed his path, making his golden eyes, blond ruffled hair, and tall, strong features effortlessly claim my young, lonely heart. I beckoned to his every call, challenging myself harder as he praised me for successes, knowing how to sneak his way in and weave intricately like the shawl's threads into my young heart.
As I matured, I grew weary of Calum's games and ceased trying to impress him, recognizing his true nature as Jesri's kin. However, rather than deterring him, my indifference only seemed to fuel his determination to captivate me, leaving my heart in turmoil.
Complying with his last request before our lives separated, I made my way to the armoire, shedding my dress, stockings, and shoes, quickly dressing in black pants and a long knit tunic. I draped the shawl over my shoulders and slipped into my boots before entering the hallway, hearing the faint sound of shuffling feet echoing on the ceramic floors. Unnoticed, I slipped out the door into the dark ebony sky. A handful of servants remained, ensuring all guests had departed, and began to secure the gates.
The night air carried a chill, mingled with the scent of dust from the powder that still clung to the damp grass and walkways. I pulled the shawl tighter around me as a gust of wind rippled through my hair. The moon illuminated the path before me, guiding my steps with its radiant glow. A playful smirk danced on my lips as I swiftly made my way onto the soft, plush grounds of the familiar woods; the trees blossomed with color under the moon's luminous gaze and welcomed me back home.