ã€ŠSword &amp; Starlightã€‹


 Chapter 1: The Prince and the Would-Be Knight

    It was not the most lavish party that Prince Tolk¨¦ had ever thrown, but it was his favorite kind; half the guests were people he already knew and liked, and the other half were strangers. Or at least friends of friends. He didn¡¯t often strike up conversations with those he had no prior connection, but he took great pleasure in meeting new people.

    There was music, of course, played by a selection of the most popular and talented instrumentalists from court assembled in a corner of the centermost chamber, where they would be easily heard throughout the suite of rooms. The young prince himself even joined them with his own strings and flutes; at least early in the night, before he had drunk much. They played mostly peaceful, slow melodies fit for the background to conversation, but now and then they indulged in lively tunes that the guests could dance to, with quick hand drumming and small, high-toned cymbals.

    Prince Tolk¨¦ always put aside his instruments for the faster songs, as he loved to dance. As host, he decided which dances to call out, whether partnered, or in a circle, or even for each to do on their own. The people of Uspalar knew many dances of all kinds, especially in the royal city of Aldren. It was not considered a real party unless there was dancing. There were some whose steps everybody knew by heart since childhood, and even if you were at a wedding or some feast surrounded by strange faces, you could still join in and dance alongside them like old friends.

    After one such spirited dance, Tolk¨¦ let himself fall onto a nearby sofa to catch his breath, laughing merrily.

    ¡°You are in high spirits tonight, my lord,¡± his friend Pel remarked with a smirk on her red painted lips as he landed beside her. ¡°What is the occasion? Are we celebrating something?¡±

    ¡°Quite the opposite,¡± Tolk¨¦ shook his head with a bright sigh, plucking an unclaimed cup from a nearby table. ¡°Tonight is a distraction. To forget.¡±

    ¡°Forget what?¡±

    The young prince did not answer right away, as he was drinking the entire contents of the cup in one draught. Once it was empty, he placed it back where it was, already looking for another.

    ¡°I took the exam again today.¡±

    ¡°I will not ask you any further questions.¡±

    ¡°You are merciful,¡± Tolk¨¦ chuckled and bowed his head gratefully. ¡°I will face the consequences when it is time, and no sooner, heaven willing.¡±

    ¡°Heaven willing,¡± Pel echoed, lifting her cup a little as if toasting. ¡°I do not envy your position. I may not even try to retake the exam at all.¡±

    ¡°Was your father satisfied with your results?¡±

    ¡°Be fair,¡± she scoffed, finishing her drink. ¡°I did not interrogate you.¡±

    ¡°Very well,¡± the prince chuckled apologetically, handing her another full cup from the table. ¡°Drink and enjoy.¡±

    He got to his feet, but did so too quickly, and had to steady himself on the arm of the sofa until the floor stopped reeling back and forth. He scoffed at himself; was he this drunk already? He wasn¡¯t even sure what ¡°already¡± meant; he knew it was at least past midnight, but beyond that, he had no sense of what time it was. He had not counted cups or songs. Making his way back to the main room of his suite, he greeted guests as he passed, secretly collecting their smiles. Even if he hadn¡¯t done well on the civil service exam, he knew he had other skills, such as entertaining. He prided himself on never forgetting names or faces, and usually knew at least one thing about each person he met. He comforted himself in the knowledge his brother could not say the same.

    His elder brother; the king. There he stood now, in the middle of the room. He wore no crown upon his head, but the gold of his royal medallion gleamed from his chest, and those who caught sight of it moved to the side, bowing low and quieting. Soon the whole room was hushed, like a smothered candle, leaving only whispers and wisps of smoke. Word must have reached the other rooms as well, because it was only a moment before the music fell silent.

    ¡°My lord,¡± Tolk¨¦ bowed as well, surprised to see his brother at one of his parties. ¡°I am pleased that you have joined us tonight.¡± He began to look for a drink to offer, but the king¡¯s voice cut his endeavor short.

    ¡°Tonight?¡± King Gaon repeated, a mocking edge to his voice. He strode over to the window, pulling aside the heavy drape and pushing the shutter open to spill bright sunlight into the room.

    Many of the guests gasped and exclaimed softly at the sign of daylight; Prince Tolk¨¦ was not the only one to have lost grasp of time. Some, whether by sleepiness or drunkenness, slowly ambled towards the door, while others hastily gathered their belongings and left the prince¡¯s suite.

    The king said nothing as they went, not even casting an eye towards them; he stood firmly with his hands clasped behind his back, his gaze fixed on his younger brother. Tolk¨¦ also said nothing for a moment. Gaon made him rather anxious, but he did his best to disguise his unease.

    ¡°I wish you had come earlier,¡± he began, smiling politely. ¡°We could have had a drink together.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re drunk,¡± Gaon declared in a flat tone.

    ¡°I am not.¡±

    The older brother gestured toward the younger with a look of disapproval, causing the young prince to turn toward one of his many carved lacquer mirrors. His reflection was not quite what he had expected; his dark brown hair was ruffled, his angular cheeks were pink, and his sleeveless summer tunic would have been entirely open in the front if not for the pair of sashes tied around his waist.

    ¡°I always look like this,¡± he laughed with ease, although he adjusted the hem of his shirt so it covered more of his bare chest.

    Gaon did not waste any time to contradict him; he just let out a slow and steady sigh and stroked his beard. Now that they were alone, he got to the point of his visit.

    ¡°You took the civil service exam yesterday.¡±

    ¡°I did.¡± Prince Tolk¨¦ meandered over to one of the tables of refreshments in search of breakfast. Sesame buns with apricot filling would do nicely.

    ¡°Well?¡±

    ¡°You know we do not hear about our scores for at least a few days.¡±

    ¡°That may be true for most people, but I already spoke to the ministers.¡±

    Taking his time to eat the pastry, Tolk¨¦ kept his back toward his brother. It seemed the consequences were upon him earlier than he had hoped.

    ¡°Well?¡± Gaon said again. Although the king did not raise his voice, the prince winced a little at his impatient tone.

    ¡°If you spoke to them, then surely you know how I fared.¡± Tolk¨¦ rolled his eyes, only doing so because his face was hidden.

    ¡°Of course I know. How do you feel you did?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve done worse,¡± the prince finally turned to face him, licking the sweet, sticky pastry filling off his fingers and hoping his smile would appear more amused than smug.

    As usual, Gaon¡¯s tired face was set into a grim expression. He stared at his younger brother for a moment, then set to opening the rest of the shutters in the large room. The light revealed the evidence of the long, late party that left the chamber in an untidy state. Cushions were strewn about the floor, and cups in varying states of emptiness sat on every surface, from the window sills to the prince¡¯s many shelves.

    Seeing the king doing a servant¡¯s work, Tolk¨¦ began to busy himself as well, gathering the floor cushions and stacking them off to one side. Gaon loved to play games like this to put him in unusual situations. It was not the first time he had begun a task with the sole purpose of forcing Tolk¨¦ to do the same out of respect for the crown. Once all the windows were open, and the room began to warm with the summer sun, Gaon paused in front of one the book cases thoughtfully.

    ¡°You have many volumes,¡± he remarked. ¡°Histories and philosophies¡­ and no shortage of great stories and poems. Some are even in our mother¡¯s tongue. Have you read them all?¡±

    ¡°Not all,¡± Tolk¨¦ replied, lounging atop the pile of cushions he had just made. ¡°But most.¡±

    ¡°And you were under the instruction of some of the finest tutors in the Holy Empire.¡±

    The prince did not reply, sensing that a scolding was building up. He sat quietly, fiddling with a gold ring on his finger.

    ¡°Given your rather fine and¡­ expensive education,¡± the king now left the shelf to near his younger brother. ¡°How do you explain your failure?¡±

    ¡°Failure?¡± Tolk¨¦ repeated, sitting up, his eyes wide. ¡°On the exam? I couldn¡¯t have done that badly-¡±

    ¡°Compared to the others, you failed.¡±

    ¡°That is hardly fair,¡± he stood to face Gaon. To his benefit, he was taller, so despite ten years between them, the older brother was forced to look up to the younger.

    ¡°Ah, fairness,¡± the king chuckled dryly, poking at the gold medallion on Tolk¨¦¡¯s bare chest. ¡°A system that benefits you in every way. An exam that any citizen may attempt in order to earn titles and offices; but perhaps their parents will have a difficult year or two while they study and prepare.¡± He paused very briefly, but when Tolk¨¦ said nothing, he continued, his voice rising. ¡°So you, born the son of a king, then brother of a king for the last twelve years, have been given every opportunity - the dedicated attention of legal experts, governors, ministers, and scholars. You have no fields to plow nor shop to keep. You have nothing but time and money and still-¡±

    King Gaon stopped himself, as he was nearly shouting now. He took a step backward to compose himself. Tolk¨¦ noticed that his hands were shaking, but he did not have anything to say in his own defense.

    ¡°So it comes to this,¡± Gaon went on, his voice more even now, but his brow was still lowered into a scowl. ¡°Although you are no longer a child, you will not be a man for a few months still. If, by your twentieth birthday you have not made significant improvement-¡±

    ¡°Improvement?¡± Tolk¨¦ was aghast. ¡°In my exam results?¡±

    ¡°That is one measurable way to see. If you can show me in other ways that you have grown, then you certainly may.¡±

    ¡°Or what?¡±

    ¡°Or I will have no choice but to choose another as my heir.¡±

    ¡°A declared heir?¡± the prince scoffed, crossing his arms.

    ¡°I would rather have a well-prepared declared heir than a natural heir that doesn¡¯t even know what day it is. My counselors would never approve of me declaring you as you are now.¡±

    ¡°Who would they approve of?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know yet,¡± the king shook his head. ¡°I would have to consult with them. And of course the ministers, based on who has done well on the exam. That is essentially its purpose, after all.¡± He turned to leave, but Tolk¨¦ grabbed his arm.

    ¡°Gaon, please. If you pass me over as heir¡­¡±

    ¡°You really want it?¡± the king raised an eyebrow. ¡°You want the responsibility?¡±

    ¡°It would be embarrassing - no, shameful. For our family.¡±

    ¡°No,¡± Gaon corrected. ¡°It would be shameful for you. To keep you as my heir as you are now would be shameful for the family.¡± As if to punctuate his point, he looked all around the room at the evidence of the previous night strewn about.

    ¡°You want to exchange my gold medallion for silver because of an exam? And parties?¡±

    ¡°If you think that is all there is to it, then I am only affirmed in my decision.¡± Without another word, the king turned and left the suite.

    <hr>

    Captain Droln had only been in Aldren for a short while before managing to secure a post among the city guard. After a few days posted upon the city wall or at busy corners, he was instructed to stand at the royal palace gate with three others; two city guards and two palace guards in total.

    Droln felt no need to hide his curiosity as he peered into the garden and the grand palace beyond. It was quite different from the white palace in the holy city of Iran¨¢sa that he had once passed daily. This one was built out of golden-red sandstone, and several enormous domes crowned the structure. Precisely cut tiles of every color were arranged in patterns of flowers and stars along the borders of the countless arches and doorways.

    The garden looked like the tapestry of Paradise that hung in the great hall of the temple - trees bearing fruit grew in abundance - oranges, plums, lemons, and dates; white peacocks wandered the garden and perched beside glittering fountains, and the gated enclosure of the elephants could be seen beyond the grove of palm trees that grew in rows like stately pillars. Those that lived in the palace strolled the pathways in pairs and groups, dressed in brightly colored silks.

    The head of the knights of the king¡¯s order, a man of great stature named Sir Emyal Usul, had just come into view within the garden. He was garbed in his sun crested armor as always, and strode from post to post, speaking to the royal guards under his command. Droln had met him when he was instated as a city guard, and he found him impressive; not only was he tall, but he had keen eyes that seemed to shine like wise stars from his dark, noble face. From his neat braids in rows to the scrupulously polished plate armor that suited his broad frame, he was every inch a knight, and commanded respectful bows from all who answered to him. Although now it was Sir Emyal that bowed, and Droln¡¯s gaze flew to the one who approached the knight.

    A youth with a bright smile neared him, and although any sign of an heir¡¯s gold medallion was obscured by many large peony blossoms in his arms, Droln was certain that it was Prince Tolk¨¦.

    ¡°That is the king¡¯s brother?¡± Droln asked one of the palace guards.

    ¡°You must be new to Aldren, Captain,¡± she observed. ¡°And not only from your northern accent. Most people here would recognize Prince Tolk¨¦.¡±

    ¡°A true prince of the people,¡± the other city guard remarked. ¡°He often ventures out into the streets to join the festivals.¡±

    ¡°He is young,¡± Droln mused.

    ¡°Not yet twenty,¡± the first palace guard agreed.

    ¡°Are you sure?¡± the other doubted.

    ¡°If Prince Tolk¨¦ had come of age,¡± she reasoned. ¡°There would have been a banquet so grand that every district in the city would make a holiday of it.¡±

    Captain Droln was hardly listening, as he looked through the garden gates to observe the prince with curiosity, despite him being too far to hear what he and Sir Emyal were saying. Prince Tolk¨¦ was tall and slender, with an upright, self-sure posture and an easy stance. Like the others that lived at court, he wore colorful silk in billowing robes; even at a distance they seemed to be embroidered with great detail, and he wore gold bracelets and earrings that glimmered in the southern sun. Droln wondered what the enormous pink flowers were for, guessing that perhaps he was bringing them from the gardens to adorn his private rooms.

    Sir Emyal bowed again and the prince went merrily on his way. Watching him retreat, Droln wished that he could learn more, but without hearing him speak he was limited only to the prince¡¯s appearance. His thoughts were interrupted as Sir Emyal neared them.

    The four guards bowed as the knight stopped just on the other side of the gate to speak to them.

    ¡°My lord Prince Tolk¨¦ is hosting a duel tournament here tomorrow,¡± he announced. ¡°He wishes to extend the invitation to any palace or city guards who will be available. It will begin at noon in the west courtyard.¡±

    They nodded their bows again as he went on his way.

    ¡°I will be posted at St. Mykos square then!¡± the other city guard lamented once Sir Emyal had left them. ¡°Perhaps I can find someone to take my post.¡±

    ¡°I doubt it,¡± the short palace guard shook her head. ¡°Most everyone will want to attend the tournament.¡±

    ¡°There is a prize?¡± Droln wondered, as they all seemed eager to participate.

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    ¡°Just a little money,¡± the city guard shrugged. ¡°But that isn¡¯t the point.¡±

    ¡°It is a chance to get noticed,¡± the skinny palace guard explained. ¡°Either by Sir Emyal, to begin training in the hopes of becoming a knight-¡±

    ¡°Or by a member of the court,¡± the city guard finished, beaming. ¡°The tournaments are a very popular spectacle.¡±

    "It would certainly be cheaper than hiring a matchmaker anyway.¡±

    Droln remained quiet, allowing them to chatter and boast among themselves as he contemplated the opportunity. Luckily, he was not due to any post until evening tomorrow, so he was free to at least attend, if not join in. It would be a chance to get a glimpse into life within the palace walls. And as Prince Tolk¨¦ was hosting the event, it seemed he would be there as well.

    ¡°You graduated from that academy up north, didn¡¯t you?¡± the city guard interrupted his thoughts. ¡°Did you study swordplay there?¡±

    Droln nodded, but they continued to stare at him as if he had failed to answer the question.

    ¡°Well?¡± the skinny palace guard prompted. ¡°Are you any good?¡±

    <hr>

    "He is quite good," Tolk¨¦ remarked to Sir Emyal quietly, his eyes on the new city guard that had just won a duel against one of the knights. ¡°What is his name?¡±

    ¡°Captain Droln Erapel. He just graduated from the academy in Iran¨¢sa.¡±

    ¡°Very impressive. Is he from there?¡±

    ¡°From Yannua, my lord,¡± the knight shook his head.

    Tolk¨¦ continued to watch Droln, despite another duel having begun. He was intrigued by the newcomer and admired his skill in swordplay.

    ¡°I think I will challenge him,¡± the prince said at last, surprising Sir Emyal.

    ¡°You mean to face Droln Erapel?¡± The captain of the knights replied, raising an eyebrow but keeping his tone polite. ¡°As part of the tournament?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I know he is far better than I,¡± Tolk¨¦ chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m not trying to win. I want to see him up close.¡± With that, he made his way across the courtyard to where the captain waited patiently to be called again.

    Droln had not expected that Prince Tolk¨¦ would take notice of him so quickly, but he bowed respectfully as he was approached. Seeing how bright and friendly the prince was surprised him; Droln had assumed he would be aloof and haughty.

    ¡°Well done, Captain,¡± Tolk¨¦ commended warmly. ¡°Will you face me next?¡±

    ¡°With pleasure,¡± Droln replied, and the prince smiled, standing beside him to wait for their turn.

    Droln looked him over sideways, to see what more there was to learn from when he had first seen him in the garden. The prince was just as well dressed as before, and seemed to favor gold jewelry and jasmine scented perfume.

    It seemed that in many ways they were the opposite of one another. While Prince Tolk¨¦ was tall, slender and fair, like the boughs of a willow, Droln was stocky and broad, with a deep bronze complexion. He wondered if the prince was incapable of growing a beard, or just preferred not to, but as for himself, even if he were to shave, his jaw would be shadowed by dusk. Now that he thought about it, he couldn¡¯t even picture facial hair of any kind on the youth beside him, as his features were delicate and soft. His playfully tousled hair was dark, but if one looked closely, many golden strands could be found, like secret kisses from the sun. Droln couldn¡¯t help but feel there was more to him than a well-maintained public fa?ade.

    When it was their turn to duel, Sir Emyal beckoned to them and the prince removed his outer robe in preparation, revealing a sleeveless summer tunic beneath; Droln noted that upon the skin of the prince¡¯s right shoulder was a tattoo in the image of the sun, with its long rays extending down his arm a ways. He knew it was both the emblem of the kingdom and the royal family, but he was not sure which of the two it was meant to represent in this case.

    They took their positions to begin the duel, and at Sir Emyal¡¯s signal, they began. Prince Tolk¨¦¡¯s stance was well practiced and proper, as well as the way he held the practice sword, but it was clear to Droln that other than those starting elements and the prince¡¯s natural grace, he was hardly a formidable opponent. Although Droln knew he could end the duel swiftly, he made a few moves after a brief delay in order to allow the prince time to react and block the attacks. However, he knew that Prince Tolk¨¦ was watching him just as carefully, so he did not draw the match out much longer. As Droln made the final move, he wondered how easy it would be to achieve victory without mercy.

    Upon his defeat, the prince laughed good-naturedly and offered a hand to Droln to congratulate him. Droln extended his own hand to shake, remembering that here in the south, it was three quick shakes, punctuated by a nod of the head.

    Releasing their hold on one another, the two of them moved aside to make way for the next pair, and although Droln placed himself with enough distance between them that the prince could go on his way without causing any offense, Tolk¨¦ remained nearby.

    ¡°Which island of Yannua are you from?¡± he wondered.

    ¡°Helon, my lord,¡± Droln replied.

    ¡°Ah, I have family there,¡± the prince smiled. ¡°Well, I suppose I have family everywhere. Even outside the Holy Empire.¡±

    ¡°In Aris?¡±

    ¡°Yes, even in Aris. My elder sister Miriel married someone up there¡­ the queen¡¯s nephew, perhaps. I was very young then, and of course I have not seen her since.¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± the captain replied softly. He could not imagine the king ever granting permission for the prince to cross that border; the marriage was evidently not successful in strengthening ties between the kingdoms. He wondered how Tolk¨¦ felt about losing his sister that way, as the way he spoke about her was very matter-of-fact.

    Droln was pulled from his thoughts by the sound of his name, as another captain challenged him to a duel. The prince nodded to encourage him, even nudging him forward; he was already treating him like a friend of several months, if not years. Droln was barely engaged in the duel, allowing his countless hours of training to lead his body as he continued to keep an eye on the prince. This opponent was better than the others he had faced so far, so he was forced to concentrate for a moment to put an end to their match.

    Upon his victory, Droln realized that more of the spectators were paying attention to him now. Other guards and captains watched him, likely plotting the course of their own matches against him, and lords and ladies of the court murmured praise of his skill from the mezzanine above.After several rounds and many matches, Droln was declared the winner of the tournament. Sir Emyal even nodded a sort of bow at his victory; perhaps there was a chance that Droln might begin the path to knighthood after all.

    ¡°Congratulations, Captain,¡± the prince approached with a bright smile, looking truly proud of Droln. ¡°Well done.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, my lord,¡± the captain bowed deeply, pleased with his success. He had hoped to do well, of course, but he was not so proud that he assumed he would be the victor.

    The prince looked as if he were going to say something else, but kept it to himself, silently ending their conversation by starting away. But he seemed to change his mind once more, turning back toward Droln.

    ¡°Where will you be posted tomorrow?¡±

    ¡°Upon the city wall,¡± he replied. ¡°The eastern wall.¡±

    Hearing this, Prince Tolk¨¦ merely nodded, finally leaving the courtyard.

    Droln thought nothing of this, and even forgot about it altogether until the next morning when he was stationed at his post and a figure approached him from the far tower. Although he did not know him well, it was easy to distinguish Prince Tolk¨¦ by his carefree gait and confident bearing; the bright green and blue silk trimmed in glass beads that sparkled in the high sun only helped confirm his identity. When the prince could tell that Droln saw him, he waved to him in greeting, even hastening to a light run until he was near.

    ¡°Good day, my lord,¡± Droln bowed, surprised that he had come all this way just to see him.

    ¡°Captain!¡± the prince trotted to a stop. ¡°I... May I use your familiar name?¡± He waited hopefully for confirmation, smiling when it was granted. ¡°Mm. Droln. I spoke with Sir Emyal Usul; we both think you are an excellent candidate for knighthood. He is willing to take you on as a student! Well? Tell me your thoughts.¡±

    It took Droln a moment to even understand what was being said, as Prince Tolk¨¦¡¯s demeanor was so cheerful and enthusiastic that it was nearly distracting. Some might find his mannerisms irritating, Droln decided, but he found a refreshing charm in the way he spoke and carried himself.

    ¡°I am honored,¡± he said at last, and before he even tried to think of anything more, the prince had begun again.

    ¡°Excellent,¡± Tolk¨¦ crossed his arms, pleased. ¡°Now. I am hosting a small banquet this evening in my private suite. I would be delighted if you would attend. I just received a long expected order of ferasa.¡± Noticing the captain¡¯s look of bewilderment, he quickly apologized. ¡°Forgive me, I forgot you are new to Aldren. Ferasa, plum and pomegranate wine. A favorite here. I insist you try some, but I will be sure to provide some ale or other northern brew that you might be more used to.¡±

    ¡°You are very kind, my lord,¡± Captain Droln began, a little uneasy, but he pressed on. ¡°But you must excuse me. I do not partake in drink.¡±

    This reply gave Tolk¨¦ pause, blinking a few times. Droln felt as if he were watching the words enter his mind; he couldn¡¯t help but wonder if this might put some irreversible distance between them, but the prince shook his head a little, dismissing the excuse.

    ¡°You will be welcome anyway. You must come.¡±

    ¡°Very well,¡± Droln couldn¡¯t help smiling at his kind insistence.

    ¡°Ah, I thought your eyes were brown,¡± Prince Tolk¨¦ seemed to realize suddenly. ¡°But now that I see them closer, I see they are more like amber. Nearly golden in the sunlight.¡±

    The captain nodded, unsure of what to say in reply, but the prince was already on to the next topic.

    ¡°I imagine you¡¯ll be knighted in a year or two. I will help in any way I can, of course.¡±

    ¡°Help me?¡± the captain lifted his chin, suspicious. ¡°What for?¡±

    ¡°I like helping people,¡± the prince shrugged, but when he saw that his reason was too flimsy, he sighed. ¡°You don¡¯t trust too easily. That¡¯s commendable.¡±

    Droln waited for him to continue.

    ¡°Mm. In fact you just may be perfect,¡± Tolk¨¦ narrowed his eyes, resting his chin on a hand that bore several gold and jeweled rings.

    The captain let out an embarrassed chuckle at the bold statement, avoiding the young prince¡¯s intent gaze.

    ¡°Truly,¡± he insisted. ¡°Perfect for my plan against my brother.¡±

    Droln was surprised to hear him declare any sentiment that would oppose the king; from what he had heard about him, Prince Tolk¨¦ was supposedly neither politically minded nor scheming. He returned his attention back to the prince¡¯s face to let him know he was listening.

    ¡°I ought to tell you what the plan is,¡± he began, taking a step nearer, his large, angular eyes alight with mischief. ¡°Seeing that it involves you. My brother - the king, of course - has threatened to pass me over as his heir. He says I am too... well, a great many things, but he says I am not serious enough.¡±

    ¡°And the plan?¡±

    ¡°Well, you¡¯re rather serious. I mean that as a sincere compliment, of course. You are older than me, that may help. I don¡¯t know whether you are particularly scholarly or not, but judging by your lovely accent, you have at least learned a new language. You just finished a captain¡¯s training at the best military academy in the Holy Empire. Soon to be a knight, as I said. And you don¡¯t even drink! If Gaon notices you in my company, he¡¯s bound to take me more seriously.¡±

    Droln stroked his beard as he considered this proposal; it was a fairly ridiculous plan as far as he was concerned. From their little interaction so far, he judged that the prince was genuine in his suggestion, truly believing the mere presence of a respectable person in his social circle would change the king¡¯s mind. Was such a thing even possible? Perhaps, but not very likely. And yet, it required very little effort on Droln¡¯s part. He would be able to enjoy the benefits of a friendship with the center of high society without having to do anything other than continue his efforts toward knighthood, which of course he already had his sights set on. It was possible that some downside would present itself further down the line; perhaps Prince Tolk¨¦ was more clever than he was letting on, and there was some catch, but Droln could not imagine anything unfavorable enough to warrant refusing such an offer. And if the plan failed and the king thought no better of his brother, Droln could not be held responsible; if Droln failed to rise in rank, he would be no worse off than without the prince¡¯s aid. All in all, Droln felt that he was taking advantage of Tolk¨¦, and yet it had been the prince himself that had made the proposal.

    ¡°Alright,¡± Droln agreed. ¡°Seems that we both win.¡±

    ¡°Something like that. Otherwise, I¡¯ll have to take that wretched exam again.¡± As he spoke, he casually hoisted himself up to sit on the ledge of the wall. Without even thinking, Droln grabbed hold of him by the arm, fearfully glancing down to the rocky ground far below.

    His movement seemed to startle the prince, who stared at him with wide eyes, unmoving. They remained still for a moment, the prince sitting upon the ledge and the captain standing on the wall, their arms clasped. Droln could feel Tolk¨¦¡¯s quickened pulse where he held him at his inner elbow; his own heart was pounding as well. It was a foolish place to climb, but the prince was confident enough in his own balance that he didn¡¯t even consider the danger. And it was dangerous enough that Droln failed to consider that they were not only strangers, but of different social levels. At last Tolk¨¦ relented, hopping down from the ledge, looking only a little ashamed of himself.

    ¡°Forgive me, my lord,¡± Droln released him, bowing humbly. ¡°I overstepped.¡±

    ¡°No,¡± Tolk¨¦ dismissed his apology. ¡°You have good and noble instincts. I will see you tonight.¡±

    <hr>

    It was easy enough to find the prince¡¯s private suite, as Droln had been instructed to find the door that was carved with the images of deer among birch trees. The many voices coming from the other side only affirmed that he had found the right place, so he let himself in. The main room was rather large, but very pleasant and cozy; it was in the same style as many of the other rooms in the royal palace that he had passed through so far, with red sandstone columns and high ceilings, but this room felt more personal. Small trinkets were to be found in every nook and cranny, indicating memories or perhaps souvenirs. There were seashells with gold painted edges, miniature statues of horses, and tiny boxes that held mysteries. It almost looked like the studio of a sorcerer or wizard, and it was easy to imagine that many of the items were indeed enchanted, but Droln caught a glimpse of a shrine in between some of the book cases and then decided that perhaps the prince was too religious to be interested in magic. The shrine was closed, but he guessed that perhaps it housed a statue of Orshin-Ki, the goddess of fortune; someone that had a fondness for gold was likely to pray to her.

    Coming further inside, he looked around at the dozen or so other guests present, hoping to see a face that he at least recognized. Everyone there was dressed splendidly in southern style clothing that wrapped across the front, as well as the two sashes tied around the waist that all citizens of the Holy Empire wore. Droln himself owned mainly northern style shirts that fastened up the center, but he wore a nice enough garment now that he at least didn¡¯t stand out too much; his sashes were fairly plain compared to the others, and he realized that if he were going to be spending more time among members of court, he would need some new clothes. Soon the prince noticed his arrival, coming to greet him gladly.

    ¡°Droln, you¡¯re here,¡± he approached with open arms. He was somehow even more ornately dressed than any of the other times Droln had seen him so far, with elaborate dangling earrings and so much gold embroidery on his tunic that it looked like several necklaces upon his chest. ¡°I was worried you wouldn¡¯t come.¡±

    ¡°I said I would.¡±

    ¡°And you¡¯re a man of your word, I see. Let me find you something to drink.¡±

    ¡°Tea is fine,¡± Droln said quickly, in case the prince had forgotten that he wouldn¡¯t be drinking. ¡°Chilled, if you have it.¡±

    ¡°I have everything,¡± the prince grinned. ¡°I¡¯ll just be a moment.¡±

    He crossed the room to the extravagant tiered buffet covered in platters, punch bowls, and carafes, looking over the selection of pitchers nestled in a tub of snow until he found one containing a reddish brown liquid with lemon slices floating in it. He poured some into a ceramic cup with silver on the rim, bringing it to Droln.

    ¡°I hope you like it. Oh, Yur¨ª!¡± he called to a well-dressed woman with short golden hair passing by, causing her and another to pause and join him. ¡°I wanted to introduce you to Captain Droln Erapel.¡±

    ¡°Droln, this is my sister-in-law, Princess Yur¨ª, and her attendant Lady Andra.¡±

    Droln bowed to the ladies who returned the greeting. He of course knew that once he joined the prince¡¯s social circle, he was sure to meet members of court, including royalty, but he was amazed that he had hardly been in Aldren for two weeks and he had already met two of the king¡¯s closest relatives.

    ¡°We saw you at the duel tournament yesterday,¡± the princess remarked. ¡°Congratulations on your victory.¡±

    ¡°Sir Emyal has agreed to take him on as a student,¡± Tolk¨¦ announced proudly, even placing a hand on the captain¡¯s shoulder.

    ¡°In pursuit of knighthood?¡± Lady Andra nodded a little, impressed. ¡°I wish you the very best, Captain. It is a difficult path.¡±

    ¡°Having seen him at swordplay,¡± Princess Yur¨ª countered. ¡°I believe he¡¯s capable enough for such a role. The real challenge would be to win over my husband.¡±

    ¡°Then perhaps my lord Prince Tolk¨¦ could be of some help,¡± Droln suggested, but he was met with laughter from all three, as if he had told a clever joke.

    ¡°In that case,¡± the prince chuckled. ¡°Then you would certainly have no choice but to join a lesser order of knighthood. Ah, my cup is empty; will anyone else be needing more to drink?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d rather something to eat,¡± the princess took a step as if to follow him, but her attendant volunteered instead.

    ¡°There is lamb stuffed with barley and olives, as well as vinegar and herb cucumbers,¡± she declared.

    ¡°Thank you, Andra,¡± Princess Yur¨ª smiled. ¡°That will do nicely. She knows just what I like,¡± she remarked to Droln as Lady Andra and the prince went off to the grand display of refreshments. ¡°In fact, sometimes it seems like she knows just about everything. There is a lot to keep track of in court; I would never be able to do it on my own. Ah, don¡¯t worry,¡± she encouraged, seeing Droln¡¯s concerned face. ¡°Tolk¨¦ knows a little bit of something about everyone too. You¡¯re lucky to be favored by him.¡±

    ¡°Does he do this often?¡± the captain wondered. ¡°Choose someone and¡­ help them?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s very generous,¡± she nodded. ¡°Some of the people in this room found their place in court thanks to him. It can be difficult without help.¡±

    ¡°Then I am grateful,¡± Droln agreed. ¡°I¡¯m afraid I¡¯m not much of a scholar; the civil service exam would be an insurmountable obstacle for me.¡±

    ¡°It is for many,¡± she looked toward the prince, who was now returning with a freshly filled glass and a plate, which he held out to Droln.

    ¡°This is one of my favorites,¡± he said of the flatbread and grayish-brown sort of pulp beside it.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Droln took it, not wanting to be rude, but he hesitated. ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°Mainly eggplant.¡±

    ¡°Ah, so it is a plant?¡± he inspected it, much to the amusement of the others. ¡°I don¡¯t eat meat,¡± he explained quickly, feeling foolish.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have eggplant in the north?¡± Princess Yur¨ª looked to her attendant.

    ¡°Not as far north as the captain is from,¡± Lady Andra smirked. ¡°You might know it by its Kayuan name, oberj¨ªn.¡±

    ¡°Ah,¡± Droln nodded, feeling a little relieved now that the strange food had a name he had at least heard before. He ate some with the flatbread, and although the texture was just as foreign and mushy as it looked, he found that he quite liked the flavor, along with the herbs and spices it had been prepared with.

    ¡°You like it?¡± the prince had been watching his face for a reaction, and smiled when it seemed that his recommendation had been a success. ¡°I¡¯m so glad. Mm. Empty again.¡± He excused himself to refill his cup once more, and the princess looked to her attendant and sighed.

    ¡°There are a few people here I should greet,¡± she said to Droln. ¡°Pleasure to meet you.¡±

    He bowed to her and she went on her way, followed by Lady Andra.

    ¡°Good luck, Captain,¡± Lady Andra chuckled as she passed.

    He found it odd that she seemed to be implying that the prince was in some way his responsibility, until Tolk¨¦ returned, his cheeks now displaying a merry glow. It was early yet, and Droln decided it would be wise to steer the prince from the bountiful table of drinks that even now was being restocked by servants.

    ¡°What a lovely view,¡± he remarked, gesturing toward the open double doors.

    ¡°You should see it,¡± Tolk¨¦ suggested, as if it were his idea, escorting the captain out onto the terrace. The private garden below was surrounded on all sides by wings of the palace, far from the eyes of those who passed by in the streets.

    ¡°It¡¯s so quiet,¡± Droln remarked.

    ¡°The front garden is lovely, but I prefer this one myself,¡± the prince agreed, sipping his drink as he leaned on the rail. ¡°It¡¯s a good place for secrets.¡±

    Droln tilted his head, not understanding what he meant until Tolk¨¦ nodded toward a shadowy corner of the garden where it looked like a pair of lovers was meeting. Droln laughed and turned away, causing the prince to grin and shake his head. He finished his drink and set the now empty cup on the ledge; Droln decided to say something before he had a chance to go back inside for more.

    ¡°Is it heavy?¡± he asked, looking at the gold medallion that hung from Tolk¨¦¡¯s neck.

    ¡°This?¡± he lifted it from his chest a little. ¡°Not particularly. And I suppose I¡¯m used to it anyway. I wear a lot of gold.¡±

    This was all too true; even now his earrings, several rings, bangles, and other trinkets glimmered warm yellow. The captain shook his head with a smirk.

    ¡°I mean to ask if it is a burden.¡±

    ¡°Oh.¡± The prince hoisted himself upon the ledge, much like he had done upon the wall that afternoon. It was a far shorter height, so Droln did not stop him this time. ¡°Being my brother¡¯s heir, you mean. I don¡¯t give it much thought, really.¡±

    Droln said nothing at first, furrowing his brow a little at the remark. The prince had asked for his help to appear more serious in the eyes of the king, but he was not sure if it was quite his place to tell him what to do.

    ¡°Perhaps you should,¡± he suggested in as light a tone as he could manage, carefully lifting himself up to sit beside him. ¡°What if something were to happen to your brother? He has no children, after all.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t like to think about it,¡± Tolk¨¦ retorted, in a sharper voice than Droln had heard from him yet. But when he looked at the prince¡¯s face, he saw that it was fear in his eyes, rather than anger.

    ¡°Never mind,¡± Droln dismissed the topic. He thought it odd that the prince neither felt the burden of responsibility nor thought about what might happen if the crown should fall upon his head, and yet was determined not to be passed over by his brother.

    ¡°I need another drink,¡± he announced, hopping down from the ledge.

    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Droln tried, hoping he wasn¡¯t being too forward.

    ¡°Yes,¡± the prince said, very seriously, before winking and going back inside.

 Chapter 2: Village Behind, City Ahead

    Before he could even identify them by sight, Ilyen Gerrin knew that the voices singing in harmony belonged to his nieces. Peering ahead, he could see the figures of the two girls atop the leaning boulder beside the road.

    ¡°Uncle Ilyen!¡± one cried out when she saw him, and they stopped their song to get to their feet upon the great rock, waving their arms in greeting.

    Waving to them in return, he slowed his cart as soon as he was near.

    ¡°Al¨ªs, Lilia!¡± he beckoned for them to descend from their mossy perch. Al¨ªs fearlessly jumped to the ground, but the younger sister navigated a more cautious route down the side, her bare feet finding footholds carefully. Ilyen chuckled to himself; he could not recall ever seeing shoes on Lilia¡¯s feet.

    ¡°Come up on my cart,¡± he invited. ¡°Lilia, you¡¯re even taller than the last time I saw you. How old are you now?¡±

    ¡°Seventeen,¡± she replied proudly, standing up straight to show him just how tall she was.

    Al¨ªs rolled her eyes at the lie. ¡°Sixteen,¡± she mouthed to their uncle while Lilia was busy climbing into the back of the cart with the many casks of dried tea leaves.

    ¡°You look well, uncle,¡± Al¨ªs ducked beneath the wide brim of his straw hat to kiss his cheek fondly, sitting beside him in the front. ¡°How was your trip from Aldren?¡±

    ¡°Fine, fine,¡± he replied, giving the reins a shake to continue down the road. ¡°Looking forward to celebrating Yan tonight. He should have proposed last year, if you ask me.¡±

    ¡°He was too nervous, but he¡¯s been regretting it every day since.¡±

    ¡°One chance a year,¡± Ilyen shook his head. ¡°I can¡¯t believe you still have that tradition in Salm¨¹. Now if you had set things up with a matchmaker¡­¡±

    ¡°Where is Aunt Jain anyway?¡± Al¨ªs wondered.

    ¡°There was a meeting that was too important to put off, but she sends her love.¡±

    ¡°Is it a first introduction of a potential match?¡± Lilia leaned forward to join their conversation.

    ¡°No, they¡¯ve met a few times. We¡¯re hoping to announce a betrothal.¡±

    By now they came to the crossroads. Continuing straight would lead to the rest of the plains and hills of the kingdom, until the mountains, and Tarraven beyond. The road to the left led to the village, where the workshops and stores formed an open square; twice a week the market would fill the space with its many stalls and vendors, both locals and from surrounding towns. Ilyen instead turned them to the right, which brought them to the gate of Summervale, the Rinak property. The family name was carved in the traditional style on the door, surrounded by a design of clover leaves and blossoms. Lilia hopped down from the cart to open it for her uncle to steer into.

    ¡°Uncle Ilyen¡¯s here!¡± she called to the house, prompting the eldest to come out from the courtyard.

    ¡°Yan!¡± Ilyen pulled the reins to stop his steed, disembarking to shake hands with his nephew. ¡°How are you feeling about tonight?¡±

    ¡°Wonderful,¡± Yan laughed, but there was a tremor in his voice.

    ¡°Do not worry,¡± Lilia neared, taking his arm to comfort him. ¡°Phyra will certainly accept you.¡±

    ¡°She had better,¡± Al¨ªs teased, taking his other arm. ¡°Or you will have built that house up on the hill for nothing.¡±

    ¡°You must ask this year,¡± the youngest warned. ¡°You have delayed too long.¡±

    ¡°I will,¡± Yan mumbled, a faint blush appearing behind his beard.

    When the three Rinak children were all together, they appeared as a set, whole and complete, all belonging together. They all had black hair and narrow brown eyes, and seemed to share other features in pairs. Yan and Lilia had their mother¡¯s high cheekbones, while the two sisters had inherited the overall proportions of their father¡¯s side of the family, with deep-set eyes and round, delicate noses. Yan and Al¨ªs looked most alike when they smiled, with wide grins that made their eyes all but disappear. Al¨ªs had a lovely round face, and was small statured, barely reaching her brother¡¯s shoulder. Lilia was not yet finished growing, but she had passed Al¨ªs years ago. They could easily be identified as a family, not only from their appearances, but from the fondness with which they treated one another.

    Yan gave his sisters a squeeze before releasing them to tend to the horse and cart while the girls led their uncle into the courtyard of the main house. The rhythmic clacking of the loom that had been steadily echoing over the cobblestones stopped suddenly as Madam Rinak got to her feet.

    ¡°Is that Ilyen?¡± she held her arms out toward him as she stepped away from her weaving.

    ¡°Hello, Cliere,¡± he greeted, stepping into her embrace so she wouldn¡¯t have to navigate on her own. He placed a loving kiss upon her greying head and held her tightly.

    ¡°How long will you be staying?¡±

    ¡°Just a few days,¡± he let her go, holding her hands instead. ¡°We can celebrate Yan and Phyra¡¯s betrothal, and Al¨ªs can say her goodbyes to everyone in town.¡±

    At the mention of her sister¡¯s imminent departure, Lilia let out a sigh that seemed to remind her mother of something.

    ¡°Ah, girls, help bring your uncle¡¯s things to the guest room,¡± she instructed, listening for their retreating footsteps before addressing her brother quietly. ¡°Lilia is having trouble accepting that Al¨ªs is leaving Salm¨¹. They¡¯ve always been very close; sharing a room, and clothes, and every little thing.¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± Ilyen squeezed his sister¡¯s hands understandingly.

    ¡°If it isn¡¯t too much trouble for you and Jain, could you take her to Aldren as well? Just for a little while. It might help Al¨ªs too. She often speaks of how much she is looking forward to the change, but I know she¡¯s likely to become rather homesick.¡±

    ¡°Ah, Cliere, you coddle them,¡± he scolded gently. ¡°Lilia would be no burden upon my wife and I, but this is the time for Al¨ªs to grow up. Anyway, between helping us run the tea house, and preparing for her match, she will hardly have time to be homesick.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re probably right,¡± Madam Rinak sighed.

    ¡°In a month or two, send Lilia for a visit,¡± he suggested. ¡°Then she¡¯ll have something to look forward to.¡±

    Relieved, she smiled and nodded, letting go of one of his hands to feel for her cane. Finding it, she began to walk with him across the courtyard to the parlor.

    ¡°Tell me. Do you have a match for Al¨ªs in mind?¡±

    ¡°Ah, you know I¡¯m not allowed to reveal any details this soon.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not asking for details, just whether or not you have a husband in mind for her.¡±

    ¡°Very well,¡± he sighed. ¡°Yes, we are hoping to arrange a meeting with someone in particular. I cannot say who, or anything about him at all.¡±

    ¡°Yes, yes,¡± she dismissed his caution. ¡°Al¨ªs is just worried that coming from such a small village, that she might be¡­ disadvantaged.¡±

    ¡°Cliere,¡± Ilyen began, sounding serious. ¡°I want you to understand that Jain and I are highly respected in the matchmaking business. What I mean is, although we are glad to help Al¨ªs, and indeed the family, we would not be taking her as a client unless we had total faith in her.¡±

    Now that they had reached the door of the parlor, Ilyen watched his nieces carrying his bags to another door of the courtyard. Al¨ªs strode purposefully, her head upright, while young Lilia practically skipped behind her. There were barely four years between them, but it seemed that the older sister was already quite grown up.

    ¡°Al¨ªs isn¡¯t worried,¡± he mused. ¡°You are, Cliere.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I am,¡± she admitted, stepping over where she knew the threshold was and using her cane to guide herself to the fireplace, carefully finding the hanging kettle and shaking it to listen for water inside before swinging the hinged iron arm so that the kettle would be heated over the fire. ¡°Aldren is very different from Salm¨¹. The people are different.¡±

    ¡°People are people,¡± Ilyen reminded her, leaning in the doorway. ¡°And Al¨ªs is extraordinarily intelligent and poised, especially for one with only basic formal education. She must have worked very hard on her own to become so well read and cultured.¡±

    ¡°She is always turning pages.¡±

    ¡°And I know you¡¯ll have to take my word for this, but she is a beautiful young lady. Some matchmakers say beauty has no bearing on a quick or successful match, but after being in the business for such a long time¡­ my dear, you have nothing to worry about.¡±

    ¡°Ilyen!¡± Master Rinak greeted as he entered the courtyard from the main door. ¡°I saw your cart and horse in the barn, when did you arrive?¡±

    ¡°Only just now,¡± he replied, shaking his brother-in-law¡¯s hand. ¡°You¡¯re looking well, Jehol. I was sorry to hear about your brother. He was a good man.¡±

    ¡°Ah, thank you. Would you like to visit his grave?¡± he gestured toward the back of the property.

    ¡°I intend to lay a wreath before I leave.¡±

    ¡°We don¡¯t have a funeral shop in town,¡± Cliere remarked. ¡°But there are some juniper trees around, and one of the girls can help tie it into a wreath.¡±

    ¡°Come in, please, sit,¡± Jehol invited, and Ilyen removed his woven straw hat to enter and sit with the two of them. ¡°Do you have a match for Al¨ªs yet?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t reveal-¡±

    ¡°He does, he does,¡± Cliere interrupted, waving her hand. ¡°He can¡¯t tell us anything about the man or his family, but they have someone in mind. All is well.¡±

    ¡°You aren¡¯t anxious too, are you?¡± Ilyen looked at the carpenter sideways. ¡°Is it that you don¡¯t have faith in your daughter, or in my wife?¡±

    Jehol leaned back in his chair, scratching his head with a slow sigh.

    ¡°Al¨ªs is¡­ well, I am very proud of her. And you and Jain; I have heard how well things have been going, both in the tea business and in the matchmaking business. I¡¯m sure you will choose someone suitable for her.¡±

    ¡°But?¡± Ilyen waited, but the carpenter didn¡¯t continue, so he turned to his sister. ¡°Cliere?¡±

    ¡°We always intended for at least one of our children to marry with your help,¡± she said. ¡°And of course we¡¯ve been discussing it as a path for Al¨ªs for several years now. But we didn¡¯t think it would happen so soon. She only came of age this year, you know.¡±

    ¡°I was surprised when you wrote to start the process,¡± he admitted. ¡°I also thought it would be a few years from now. What changed?¡±

    ¡°Losing my brother,¡± Jehol revealed. ¡°As you know, it was fairly unexpected. Summervale isn¡¯t the largest property, but it takes a lot of work to maintain, and money. Losing a pair of capable hands took a toll on our ledger.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡±

    The kettle now whistled, and the carpenter stood at once to remove it from the fire.

    ¡°I¡¯m getting it,¡± he told his wife before she stood, pouring the steaming water into the teapot she had already prepared.

    ¡°What about Lilia?¡± Ilyen wondered.

    ¡°What about her?¡± Cliere sat up straighter.

    ¡°Should we arrange a match for her as well?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s far too young,¡± she began to protest, but her husband could only laugh at the idea.

    ¡°It would be for when she¡¯s older,¡± Ilyen tried to explain, but Jehol was still chuckling as he spoke. ¡°What joke have I told?¡±

    ¡°Lilia is the last girl in the world that would agree to an arranged marriage,¡± he shook his head with a grin. ¡°Al¨ªs may be more independent, but our sweet lily is far too interested in romance to be paired with someone she did not choose herself.¡±

    ¡°The tea is ready,¡± Cliere announced, and her husband poured it for each of them.

    ¡°Lilia could choose someone herself,¡± Ilyen went on. ¡°Sometimes couples who are too young to marry will ask a matchmaker to make their betrothal legitimate. They don¡¯t always last until they come of age, of course, but occasionally they do. It keeps foolish romantics from running away from home and getting into trouble.¡±

    ¡°Do you and Jain betroth children often?¡± Jehol snickered into his cup.

    ¡°Ah, never mind,¡± he shook his head. ¡°You were right, Cliere. People are different in Aldren.¡±

    ¡°Mama!¡± Lilia called from across the courtyard, panting as she came into the parlor. ¡°Mama, Al¨ªs won¡¯t change into something nice to wear tonight. She says she doesn¡¯t have to cuz she¡¯s not proposing or being proposed to, so no one¡¯s even gonna be looking at her and she-¡±

    ¡°I look fine,¡± Al¨ªs caught up. ¡°Mama, tell her I look fine.¡±

    Madam Rinak only threw up a hand in a shrug as she drank her tea.

    ¡°Al¨ªs, at least put on some good sashes,¡± Jehol took over. ¡°For Yan and Phyra¡¯s sake.¡±

    ¡°Very well,¡± the older daughter conceded, returning to their room to do as her father asked.

    ¡°Wait, will you braid my hair?¡± Lilia took off after her, her voice echoing off the slate tiles of the open courtyard.

    The two parents were now rather quiet, and Ilyen could tell they were contemplating how different things would be, not only with one of their children gone, but with the pair of sisters separated.

    <hr>

    In the open field past the village square, the villagers had lit a great bonfire for the traditional dance, setting up many tables and bringing food to share with their neighbors. All the people of Salm¨¹ had arrived, as well as a few folks from the surrounding villages, whether or not they had relatives eligible for marriage.

    Anyone who was not already betrothed or married over the age of twenty wore a crown of flowers, including Yan and Al¨ªs. Lilia and the other youths had woven crowns of green leaves for themselves instead, knowing that when they were old enough they would be able to join the dance.

    First everyone ate and drank and visited, passing gossip and cups. They speculated on who might propose to whom, and commented on how nervous or excited the eligible dancers appeared. Eventually, chairs began migrating, placed in a wide circle; those wearing summer blossoms on their heads found a seat within the ring, and all the spectators gathered on the edge in clusters. The Rinak family huddled together behind where Yan and Al¨ªs sat, giving last bits of encouragement to the carpenter¡¯s son, who could only nod at their words, although whether or not he could even hear them was hard to say. He could only gaze at his beloved Phyra across the circle and twiddle his fingers.

    ¡°Does everyone have their bells?¡± an older gentleman walked the circumference with a bag of spares, passing them to anyone who had not yet received the jingling ribbons.

    Al¨ªs of course had no intention of giving the bells to anyone that night, but she took them anyway, for tradition¡¯s sake. Although as a girl she had always loved this annual event, she had grown to agree with her Uncle Ilyen; it didn¡¯t make much sense to reserve all betrothals for a single evening in a year. In a few days she would be off to the city to seek the guidance of her aunt the matchmaker, and these ancient folk traditions would be behind her.

    Of course there were some elements of this life that she would miss, or not leave behind at all; the string of beads that all women of the village wore around their waists, for example. It was once a widespread tradition, all across the Holy Empire, but it had fallen out of fashion and was now typically reserved for holidays or important life events. Lilia had made her promise that she would continue to wear them always, no matter how far from home she wandered.

    One thing she would not miss was the eternal gossip. It was such a small village that everyone¡¯s business was always known; everyone seemed to have an opinion and no way to keep it to themselves. Even now she looked around at all the friends and neighbors that whispered among themselves; plenty looked at poor Yan, who was anxiously bouncing his knee. She was about to encourage him to pay their gossip no mind, but then she realized that many of them were in fact casting glances at her.

    Before she had the chance to say anything to her brother, the great drums began their thunderous rhythm, joined soon by the flutes and strummed string instruments, and it was time for the betrothal dance to begin. The onlookers hushed in anticipation, and for several bars of the song, no one moved. At last, one of the young women rose from her seat to kneel before her sweetheart, who smiled and allowed her to tie her bells around his ankle. The villagers cheered and applauded, and they swapped positions so that he could fasten his ribbon of bells to her ankle as well.

    ¡°Who? Who?¡± Mama patted Lilia for the report as she heard the excitement erupt.

    ¡°Lisa and Derren,¡± Lilia informed her.

    ¡°Who asked?¡±

    ¡°She did, of course,¡± her husband laughed.

    ¡°Of course,¡± Mama grinned, listening to the rhythm of their bells as they danced together. ¡°Go on,¡± she tapped her son on the back encouragingly. ¡°Go go go.¡±

    ¡°Ma,¡± he protested bashfully, but seemed ready to stand.

    Just as he was beginning to rise, another young man sprang up, causing Yan to sit back down, ducking his head in embarrassment.

    ¡°It¡¯s alright,¡± Al¨ªs comforted. ¡°At least you didn¡¯t fully stand. You can go next.¡±

    ¡°Amir is proposing now,¡± Lilia reported to Mama. ¡°Ah, I don¡¯t remember his name, he lives in Merr. The seamstress¡¯ son.¡±

    ¡°His name is also Yan,¡± she chuckled.

    Once again the villagers cheered when the proposal was accepted and the couple joined the dance. Their own Yan did not wait for the clapping and whooping to die down before he took his chance, dodging the other couples as he crossed the circle and knelt before his dear Phyra.

    ¡°He¡¯s done it!¡± Lilia clutched her mother¡¯s arm gleefully. ¡°Yan¡¯s asked Phyra!¡±

    The weaver reached forward to feel the empty chair for herself and clapped with joy at the news.

    ¡°You¡¯re not going to ask if she¡¯s accepted?¡± Papa teased.

    ¡°Of course she has,¡± she clasped her hands together over her heart.

    Al¨ªs was relieved that her brother had at last asked for his beloved¡¯s hand, but her delight was short-lived as she was approached herself.

    Jalkan, the potter¡¯s son, now knelt before her. Many considered him handsome, with his golden hair and sea green eyes, but for Al¨ªs, his crude manners and ego rendered any of his charm useless. She was not surprised at his bold gesture; he had been relentlessly pursuing her for years, ignoring all rejections of his advances, from polite excuses to direct refusals. Still, it seemed that many of the people of the village had come to believe that they were companions, no doubt by rumors that he himself had started. Even now they whispered in anticipation as they awaited her decision.

    Looking him directly in the eye, Al¨ªs crossed her ankles and moved them further beneath her chair, shaking her head a little. Jalkan¡¯s grin collapsed in disbelief and he opened his mouth a little as if to say something, but remained silent, eventually getting to his feet and returning to his seat. Instead of sitting, he jerked the chair out of the way and left the circle. There were a few giggles at his rejection, and plenty of remarks, including Lilia, who was bound to inform her mother of all goings on.

    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it

    ¡°Al¨ªs just refused Jalkan,¡± she whispered with wide eyes.

    ¡°I thought he might ask her,¡± Madam Rinak muttered. ¡°Although I prayed he would not.¡±

    Of course Al¨ªs did not regret her decision, but she felt quite hot now; partially due to the unexpected attention, but also anger. She wanted to celebrate her family¡¯s joy and welcome a dear friend into the family, not be faced with such disrespectful entitlement.

    Soon the song ended, and the chance for betrothal concluded for the year. The circle of chairs was dismantled as friends and family members flocked to congratulate the couples that had gotten engaged. Al¨ªs hugged and kissed her brother and his bride-to-be, but was distracted. Jalkan stood off to the side, leaning against a tree in the shadows.

    As angry as she was, she did not anticipate that Jalkan¡¯s wrath would be greater. Over the next hour, as the villagers made merry and celebrated, his brow became more furrowed and his shoulders tense, until he approached Al¨ªs.

    ¡°How dare you make a fool of me,¡± he hissed, yanking the crown of yellow wildflowers from his head and casting it to the ground.

    ¡°I dare say you made a fool of yourself,¡± she retorted.

    The nearby villagers quieted to watch their dispute with bated breath, eager for spectacle.

    ¡°I humbled myself, on my knees, offering everything I am.¡±

    ¡°You seem to forget,¡± she crossed her arms. ¡°A proposal of marriage is of two parts; a question, which you have posed, and an answer, which I have given.¡±

    ¡°You know that I have waited for this day, and this year, when you were at last of age.¡±

    ¡°You have wasted your time then.¡±

    ¡°I could have married another in the meantime,¡± he declared with a haughty raise of his chin. ¡°It would have been no difficulty for me.¡±

    ¡°Marriage is not an achievement,¡± Al¨ªs scoffed.

    Jalkan seemed unsure of how to reply, so he changed tactics, holding his hands out imploringly.

    ¡°Long have I loved you,¡± he began ardently, but Al¨ªs laughed before he could go on.

    ¡°Truly? What is it that you love so dearly about me?¡±

    ¡°Al¨ªs, you are the most beautiful girl in Salm¨¹; in the whole province.¡±

    ¡°So you¡¯ve said before,¡± she replied coolly. ¡°And yet not once has it felt like love.¡±

    ¡°Ah, what a thorny rose you are,¡± he crossed his arms with a scowl.

    ¡°Then don¡¯t pick the rose.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps a lily would better suit me?¡±

    ¡°Leave my sister out of this!¡± Al¨ªs snapped.

    Neither Jalkan nor Al¨ªs had the chance to say anything further, as Yan sprang forward and swung a fist, hitting the potter¡¯s son on the cheek with a delicious smacking sound. Gasps and cries swept through the crowd of onlookers as the two of them fell to the ground in a tussle. Some shouted encouragement and others pleaded for them to break apart, accompanied by the jingling of bells from Yan¡¯s ankle.

    ¡°Yan, get up!¡± Al¨ªs scolded; she hated when he fought, or indeed when any dispute collapsed into a physical fight, but she had to admit to herself that it was satisfying to see a punch land on Jalkan¡¯s face.

    Phyra was beside her, an anxious look on her pale face, but she did not discourage Yan.

    ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡± Master Rinak, aided by Ilyen, reached into the fray to grab his son.

    Some other villagers seized Jalkan as well, and they were pulled apart, their clothes rumpled and their breathing heavy. The potter¡¯s son looked worse off, bleeding from his nose and lip, but Yan too had received some blows, as a bruise near his eye had begun to swell. Now that Yan had been removed from the fight, he was calmer, adjusting his tunic and brushing the dirt from himself with only glares at his adversary.

    Jalkan, still teeming with frustration, shook the hands off his shoulders and stormed off.

    ¡°Well done,¡± Uncle Ilyen remarked to Al¨ªs with a grin and a pat on the back.

    <hr>

    Before they had even come to a stop in the streets of Aldren, Al¨ªs heard her name shouted from above. Aunt Jain waved from the second story window, soon disappearing, only to emerge from the front door of the tea house.

    ¡°Welcome, welcome!¡± she sang out, a lantern in her hand; on its iron ring, a white ribbon had been tied into a neat bow. ¡°How was your journey?¡±

    ¡°Easy and pleasant,¡± Al¨ªs dismounted, stepping gladly into her open arms.

    Aunt Jain always dressed in very fine clothes, with embroidered sashes and delicate earrings. Al¨ªs inhaled when they embraced, and the cozy scent of dried herbs and candle smoke was in her dark hair of many braids.

    ¡°Please, come in, dearest.¡± Aunt Jain herded her inside while Uncle Ilyen set about taking care of the horse and cart.

    Al¨ªs had not visited the tea house in quite some time, but it was just as she remembered it. The exposed timbers of the low ceiling were painted with leaves and flowers, and although the colors had faded over the years, they were still identifiable as varieties and flavors of tea. Great round tables of polished mahogany were placed around the middle of the room for larger parties, and smaller ones for one or two at a time were nestled in the cozy corners, such as beneath the stairs. The upper level was for private meetings, especially arrangements for matchmaking.

    There were several guests seated throughout the main room, enjoying steaming cups of tea and conversing in low voices. It was a much quieter atmosphere than the tea house in Salm¨¹, where there was often singing and dancing. Al¨ªs imagined that she would be able to read and study here, undisturbed by boisterous voices and rowdy laughter.

    The high note of a kettle sang out, and without delay, Aunt Jain hurried behind the counter to remove it from the hot coals. Al¨ªs eagerly leaned against the counter to watch her make the tea; she had always loved seeing the process carried out by a real master of the art. From the wall of shelves behind her, Aunt Jain selected a canister with the word ¡°chrysanthemum¡± written in traditional script with green ink. She opened the lid, holding it towards Al¨ªs so she could take in the floral aroma of the dried leaves.

    ¡°How lovely,¡± Al¨ªs sighed. ¡°Who are you making it for?¡± She glanced around the room, but from what she could tell, everyone seated already had plenty of tea.

    ¡°This one is for us,¡± Aunt Jain smiled, scooping some of the contents into the latticed strainer that sat atop the ceramic tea pot. ¡°It¡¯s Ilyen¡¯s favorite.¡±

    She selected a few smaller containers of other leaves and herbs from the shelf, using a set of silver measuring spoons to add them to the mix. After putting away all the tools and containers, she stood quietly, watching the steam rise from the kettle nearby.

    ¡°I¡¯m waiting for the water to cool a little,¡± she explained. ¡°Just boiled water is fine for black teas, but for green, it will give it a burnt flavor. Don¡¯t worry, my dear, I¡¯ll teach you everything.¡± Aunt Jain reassured her as she noticed Al¨ªs¡¯ worried gaze. ¡°Your father writes that you have been practicing many arts. That includes music and dancing, I hope?¡±

    ¡°Yes, and language and calligraphy.¡±

    ¡°That reminds me, he sent some of your samples,¡± she opened a drawer and pulled out a small parcel tied with ribbon. Opening it, she revealed a few cards of Al¨ªs¡¯ formal brushwork in the form of traditional poems, and a sash stitched with flowers and leaves.

    ¡°These are quite good,¡± the matchmaker nodded approvingly, shuffling through the calligraphy cards. ¡°I can tell how hard you have worked. There are a thousand more small things to learn, but you¡¯ve always been very diligent. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll learn well.¡± Now that the water had been cooling for a few minutes, Aunt Jain poured the kettle over the waiting leaves, which already began to turn from dried black to lush green.

    By now, Uncle Ilyen entered, greeting his wife with a kiss over the counter.

    ¡°Hello, love. How did things turn out with the-¡±

    ¡°I will tell you later,¡± she interrupted hastily, blinking her dark eyes at him warningly.

    ¡°Ah, of course,¡± he waved his hand as if clearing away the smoke of a candle and sat beside his niece. ¡°Jain doesn¡¯t like discussing other matches in front of clients. And you are a client now.¡±

    ¡°I suppose I am,¡± Al¨ªs mused. By now the tea had steeped long enough, so as the youngest, she lifted the glazed porcelain pot and poured it into the waiting cups for her aunt and uncle. Once she set the pot back down, Aunt Jain filled Al¨ªs¡¯ cup as well, following tradition.

    ¡°We have exchanged several letters with your parents,¡± Aunt Jain began after sipping from her cup. ¡°They have laid out what sort of match they hope to find for you, but I would not be doing my job properly if I didn¡¯t ask what you were looking for.¡±

    ¡°Me?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re the one getting married,¡± Uncle Ilyen chuckled. ¡°This is the twelfth age, for heaven¡¯s sake; your opinion matters.¡±

    Al¨ªs didn¡¯t say anything for a moment, tasting the sweet and fragrant tea silently.

    ¡°Haven¡¯t you thought about it?¡± Aunt Jain teased. ¡°Or daydreamed, at least.¡±

    ¡°Of course I have. But now that a matchmaker is asking, it seems to matter more.¡±

    ¡°We ought to start broadly,¡± she suggested, pulling a small notebook and pencil from a pocket within her sashes, speaking as she wrote. ¡°Al¨ªs Rinak: looking for a¡­ man?¡±

    ¡°A man.¡±

    ¡°Profession or trade? Disposition? Appearance?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know where to begin,¡± Al¨ªs bit her lip, feeling overwhelmed.

    ¡°Perhaps it would be helpful,¡± Uncle Ilyen spoke up. ¡°To think about what characteristics you wish to avoid. You already have a starting list.¡±

    ¡°What is he talking about?¡± Aunt Jain raised an eyebrow.

    ¡°I turned down a proposal,¡± she explained. ¡°At this year¡¯s St. Chiran¡¯s feast.¡±

    ¡°You should have seen her,¡± Uncle Ilyen chuckled. ¡°That fellow must be quite an idiot to have given it a shot, completely oblivious to how firmly you would reject him. A real fool.¡±

    ¡°He is.¡± Al¨ªs leaned her elbow on the counter, scowling as she thought back to that night. It was supposed to be a time of celebration for Yan and Phyra, and Jalkan had to go ahead and ruin things. Uncle Ilyen was right; she had a list of qualities she despised. Jalkan was proud and stubborn, and was a tease. She didn¡¯t mind being made fun of a little, as long as it was affectionate, but he seemed to cross the line every time. And she felt uneasy about the way he even looked at her. He was loud and inconsiderate and hated being told no. Worst of all, he always tried to pass his insulting behavior off as mere jest; more than once his jeers had brought her to tears, only to insult her yet again for being overly sensitive and humorless.

    ¡°I want a man who is kind,¡± she said at last. ¡°A genuinely kind heart. Well mannered is not enough; he must be caring.¡±

    Aunt Jain nodded with a smile, writing everything in her little notebook.

    ¡°And please let him love books,¡± she added, although she blushed to say it, feeling that it was a foolish addition to follow such a serious thought.

    ¡°I assure you, my dear, every one of our clients is educated and well-read. You¡¯re not in Salm¨¹ anymore.¡±

    Feeling relief that she was in such good care, Al¨ªs let out a little sigh. Seeing that her aunt¡¯s cup was less than half full, she dutifully lifted the pot to refill it. Aunt Jain nodded a little approvingly, making another note.

    Just then, the door of the tea shop opened, causing the chimes to tinkle brightly.

    ¡°Ah, good afternoon,¡± Aunt Jain greeted as the newcomer entered and sat at the end of the counter. ¡°Half pot of your usual?¡±

    ¡°One of our regular customers,¡± Uncle Ilyen remarked to Al¨ªs as his wife busied herself preparing the tea. Then his eyes widened a little as an idea seemed to enter his head. ¡°Ah, he¡¯s fairly new to Aldren as well. Perhaps you¡¯d like a friend closer to your own age than those of us with greying hair. Shall I introduce you?¡±

    ¡°Oh, I wouldn¡¯t want to disturb him,¡± she looked past her uncle at the young man who held the lid of the teapot for Aunt Jain as she poured the hot water.

    ¡°Nonsense, don¡¯t let the armor scare you. Come.¡± He gently led her down the long counter towards him.

    ¡°Captain, I would like you to meet my niece, Al¨ªs Rinak. This is Captain Droln Erapel.¡±

    ¡°Pleasure to meet you,¡± Al¨ªs bowed, doing her best to hide her shyness. Uncle Ilyen excused himself to attend to another customer on the other side of the room.

    ¡°Such a pleasure, Miss Rinak,¡± the captain bowed as well, a Kayuan accent threading his words together. ¡°I have heard many things about you from Madam and Master Gerrin. You will work here?¡±

    ¡°Yes, for a little while. Do you live nearby?¡±

    ¡°No, I live in the western part of the city.¡± He politely gestured for her to sit beside him, so she did. ¡°But we are near the palace. Sometimes I guard the gates.¡±

    ¡°The royal palace?¡± Al¨ªs was intrigued. ¡°Have you been inside? You must have met some interesting and important people.¡±

    Captain Droln nodded. ¡°Sir Emyal Usul. The king¡¯s wife. Prince Tolk¨¦.¡±

    Her eyes widened, and she found herself speechless. She had only been in Aldren for a few hours, and already she had met someone with such high connections.

    ¡°Would you like to try?¡± the captain offered politely, holding his teapot aloft, ready to pour. ¡°It is similar to what we drink at home.¡±

    ¡°Yes, thank you.¡±

    He poured her a cup of the dark colored brew and she tasted it, surprised by the strong flavor.

    ¡°Bitter?¡± he laughed, deep dimples punctuating his smile.

    ¡°Yes, very bitter,¡± she set the cup down. ¡°It¡¯s nice. But strong.¡±

    ¡°My favorite,¡± he drank more of his own, still smiling. ¡°Taste of home.¡±

    ¡°Where are you from?¡± she asked, hoping to practice her language skills.

    ¡°Your accent is good!¡± Droln exclaimed in surprise, his amber eyes wide. ¡°I¡¯m from Yannua. I lived in Iran¨¢sa in Valasno for awhile before coming here to Aldren.¡±

    ¡°What made you come here?¡± she wondered, sliding a pot of honey nearer so she could spoon some into her cup.

    ¡°To see a new part of the Holy Empire,¡± he shrugged. ¡°And to meet Sir Emyal.¡±

    ¡°To become a knight?¡± Al¨ªs switched back to Gelenian, unsure of the wording. She would have to study more vocabulary.

    The captain smiled a little, seeming embarrassed by the ambition, but he nodded.

    ¡°And you? What will you become?¡±

    ¡°No one has asked me that before,¡± she chuckled, stirring the honey into the tea and tasting it again. Better. She could appreciate the depth of flavor now that the bitterness was lessened. ¡°I will become a wife.¡±

    ¡°Your uncle tells me you sing and dance. You speak Kayuan very well. And other talents. All to become a wife?¡±

    ¡°Yes, but,¡± Al¨ªs began, but she didn¡¯t know how to continue. He was looking at her intently, as if he truly wanted to know what she had to say. ¡°Not only a wife,¡± she said at last. ¡°First, if I can marry someone wealthy, I can help my family. My father is a carpenter, and he is getting older; I worry for his back and his hands. And my mother is blind, but she still works. Furthermore, if I became the wife of a wealthy man, I would be able to afford to take some time and study - really study, so I can try my hand at the civil service exam. And then, if I do well, maybe I can gain a title or office. And that would only be the beginning. I could do good things for people; ordinary people like my family.¡± She stopped to breathe. ¡°Captain, forgive me. I did not mean to go on like that.¡±

    ¡°So,¡± he nodded, not seeming to mind her little speech. ¡°You are not concerned for love?¡± He paused, furrowing his brow as he tried to figure out the correct wording. ¡°Love is not a concern¡­ for you?¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t realize you were a romantic,¡± Al¨ªs teased, causing him to shrug. ¡°There are other things that are more important. I¡¯m sure that if my husband is good to me, I will love him in time.¡±

    He lifted his cup to toast her. ¡°Then I wish you well on your marriage.¡±

    ¡°And you on your knighthood,¡± she replied, raising her cup as well and drinking.

    <hr>

    ¡°Al¨ªs, quickly!¡± Aunt Jain waved her away. ¡°You must not be seen! Hide in your room until we have finished meeting.¡±

    Al¨ªs was of course curious to see the man who was here to discuss her as a possible match, but she knew it was important to follow her aunt¡¯s instructions. Fighting her curiosity, she obediently hurried up the stairs to her corner room and closed the door. It would be unwise to expose herself too early; Uncle Ilyen had explained to her the great value of a first impression. A formal first meeting must be arranged according to specific traditions; only when she was properly dressed could she be presented. But still she wanted to learn as much as she could before that day.

    Hearing the tinkling chimes over the tea house entrance, Al¨ªs pressed her ear to her bedroom door. She could hear a man¡¯s low voice, and her aunt and uncle in reply, but no words were discernible from this distance. She imagined they were asking what sort of tea he would like for the visit, and soon after, footfalls on the staircase indicated that they would be sitting in the parlor just outside her bedroom. She smiled to herself, sitting more comfortably on the floor; she should be able to hear well enough after all.

    ¡°I thank you for meeting us here,¡± Uncle Ilyen was saying. ¡°I know how busy you are.¡±

    ¡°It is no trouble at all,¡± the man replied. Al¨ªs imagined that he was smiling. ¡°You have served my family very well. I am happy to come see you.¡±

    More footsteps on the stairs sounded; Aunt Jain must be coming with the tea now.

    ¡°Please, sit,¡± she said, and the gentle clatter of the ceramic tea cups sounded, followed by pouring tea.

    ¡°I was pleased to hear that you already have a girl in mind,¡± the man once again sounded like he was speaking through a smile. ¡°Given your excellent judgement, I am of course looking forward to meeting her, but I am aware you have many rules for the process. What may I know about her? A name?¡±

    ¡°Her familiar name is Al¨ªs,¡± Uncle Ilyen began. ¡°She is from a small town, where her family owns land, but now she lives in the city with her aunt and uncle.¡±

    Al¨ªs found it odd that they spoke of her as if she were not their own niece, but perhaps it was wise to conceal their connection this early.

    ¡°She is as accomplished and refined as any girl we know born in Aldren,¡± Aunt Jain added. ¡°Name any skill, and she has mastered it.¡± There was a pause, then a sort of approving hum from the man; perhaps Aunt Jain had shown him her sample embroidery and brushwork.

    ¡°What about music?¡± the stranger asked hopefully. ¡°You know how important that is.¡±

    ¡°A talented harpist,¡± Uncle Ilyen confirmed. ¡°Sings well enough, and of course dances.¡±

    ¡°Performance dance,¡± Aunt Jain hurried to say. ¡°As well as partnered.¡±

    There was a quiet pause, punctuated by the sounds of teacups.

    ¡°I should like to know-¡±

    ¡°She speaks Kayuan-¡± Aunt Jain had begun at the same time. ¡°Oh, forgive me.¡±

    ¡°No, please,¡± the man conceded, sounding interested. ¡°She speaks Kayuan?¡±

    ¡°Very well. Speaks, reads, and writes.¡±

    ¡°My mother was born in the north, you know. We grew up speaking Kayuan at home.¡±

    ¡°Yes, of course.¡±

    ¡°You had a question?¡± Uncle Ilyen prompted. Al¨ªs was impressed with their politeness and focus.

    ¡°Yes. I feel a bit foolish to ask this, but... how does she look?¡±

    Al¨ªs was taken aback by the question; was it rude to ask such a thing? She wondered if it was common in these sorts of meetings. Surely one would wonder; she herself wished to see what he looked like. And he sounded so polite that she decided she didn¡¯t mind.

    ¡°Her name is very fitting,¡± Uncle Ilyen replied wisely. ¡°N¡¯al¨ªs yumar th¨¢ taelior.¡±

    ¡°The wild rose is the most beautiful,¡± the stranger repeated thoughtfully. ¡°Saint Rynn¡¯s second book of poems.¡±

    Hearing this, Al¨ªs had to clamp a hand over her mouth in glee. Aunt Jain had been right; she only selected those who were well educated.

    ¡°Wild rose,¡± he said again with a chuckle. ¡°How wild is she?¡±

    ¡°She is good company at a party,¡± Aunt Jain reassured him. ¡°And isn¡¯t afraid to give her opinion, but she is sweet and good natured.¡±

    ¡°I should like to meet her,¡± the man announced.

    ¡°We are happy to arrange it,¡± Uncle Ilyen replied, and Al¨ªs imagined them shaking hands.

    Although she wasn¡¯t sure how to imagine the stranger. Tall? Maybe he had a beard. Their footsteps passed her bedroom door and descended the stairs, and once again the distance muffled their words. Scrambling to her feet, she hurried to the small window over her bed to peer down at the street. To her delight, she was able to see him leaving the tea house. He was tall indeed, although most men were tall to her eyes. And he did have a beard, brown with a few grey hairs. His longish hair had a little grey as well, but he did not look old. Maybe thirty or so.

    Now he had turned away, but she continued to watch him until he was out of sight. She liked the way he walked; confident, without drawing attention to himself. And his clothes were well made but not showy. Although she had gotten only a brief glimpse of his face, she was able to see just well enough to commit it to memory.

    A knock sounded on her door, and she sat on her bed more naturally before calling to allow entry. Uncle Ilyen opened the door and poked his head in.

    ¡°All¡¯s well so far,¡± he smiled. ¡°I¡¯m sure you overheard at least some of it, but nothing was said that you oughtn¡¯t know about at this point.¡±

    ¡°He wants to set up the next meeting?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±

    ¡°When?¡±

    ¡°In a few weeks.¡±

    ¡°That long?¡± she sighed, and her uncle laughed. "It''s already been a month since I arrived here."

    ¡°I¡¯m glad that you¡¯re so eager. We have many meetings with other clients before then. Besides, your traditional gown and robes are still being sewn.¡± He then looked away, down the stairs to listen to Aunt Jain calling up to him. Nodding, he addressed Al¨ªs again. ¡°Ah, your new friend Droln is here, he¡¯s asking for you.¡±

    <hr>

    Al¨ªs came down to meet Droln, who waved goodbye to Aunt Jain as he left the tea house with Al¨ªs.

    ¡°I thought I would take you to see the royal palace today,¡± he announced as they walked.

    ¡°The inside?¡± she blinked.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m nervous we¡¯ll get caught.¡±

    ¡°We?¡± he laughed. ¡°I work at the palace, I¡¯m allowed to be there.¡±

    She gave him a look, unamused by his unhelpful joke.

    ¡°You won¡¯t be caught,¡± Droln shook his head, turning the corner. ¡°Everyone will think I¡¯m escorting you to meet someone.¡±

    ¡°And if they ask who it is I¡¯m meeting?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll say you¡¯re meeting with your dear friend Prince Tolk¨¦.¡±

    ¡°You are refusing to be useful today,¡± Al¨ªs elbowed him with a huff.

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t joking!¡± he insisted, dodging her jab as best he could. ¡°If we had to lie, he¡¯d play along; I¡¯m sure of it.¡±

    She paused, considering his plan.

    ¡°I suppose you would know. You see him often, don¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°Most days, yes. Sometimes he¡¯ll come to the practice courtyard to watch us train.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡±

    ¡°Or some days if I¡¯m posted somewhere in the city, he¡¯ll come see me.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± she said again.

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°Nothing,¡± she shrugged, but her eyes had a mischievous sparkle in them.

    Droln did not press further, knowing it would only turn into interrogation of questions he himself had not tried to answer. Luckily, they were already at the wrought iron gates of the royal palace, and Al¨ªs¡¯ attention was on what lay ahead. The guards posted there, knowing the captain, opened the gate to allow them entry with only friendly greetings.

    Al¨ªs linked her arm through Droln¡¯s so he could guide her while her eyes took in the wondrous sight of the garden and palace before her.

    ¡°We can go wherever you like,¡± he told her. ¡°What would you like to see?¡±

    ¡°The council chamber.¡±

    He hesitated, unsure. ¡°That may not be allowed.¡±

    ¡°Then the king¡¯s hall, where the throne is.¡±

    He shook his head a little.

    ¡°Droln, please,¡± she sighed. ¡°Where can we go?¡±

    ¡°I thought you would like to see the great hall where banquets are held. Or the statue gallery. Or the hall of tapestries, perhaps. There are several courtyards full of fountains and flowers and birds. There is of course a lovely tea house inside as well, we could share a pot.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t mean to sound ungrateful,¡± Al¨ªs stopped walking, turning to face him. ¡°I am sure it¡¯s all beautiful, but I didn¡¯t come to Aldren to look at things.¡±

    The captain crossed his arms, looking both bewildered and impressed.

    ¡°You are steps away from some of the greatest art and craftsmanship in the entire kingdom, but your only thoughts are of your ambitions? To serve on the king¡¯s council?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s important to me,¡± she insisted, fiddling with the string beads around her waist.

    Droln took a slow breath and nodded.

    ¡°I know where to take you,¡± he offered his arm again, and she took it, grateful that he was so understanding.

    Knowing now that she did not care to be impressed by the grand architecture or rich furnishings, Droln led Al¨ªs into the palace by a smaller door, rather than the enormous carved doors to the high-ceilinged front hall. Going by the most direct route, he brought her down a corridor, up a flight of stairs, and past a mezzanine to a pair of closed doors.

    ¡°Your ambitions are lofty,¡± he said, stopping in front of them. ¡°And while I believe you may succeed one day, that day is a ways off. First you have to take the civil service exam.¡±

    ¡°And before that,¡± she sighed. ¡°I have to study.¡±

    He nodded, turning the handle on one of the doors and pushing it open for her. Peering in, Al¨ªs stifled a delighted squeal with a hand over her mouth. She took one of Droln¡¯s hands in both of hers and squeezed it happily before entering the enormous library.

    Every wall of the main room was covered in shelves from ceiling to floor, with a second story balcony that wrapped around the whole room. Sofas and chairs at desks filled the center of the space, and dozens of students and scholars sat quietly, buried in their books. Al¨ªs began to look at the volumes on the walls, seeing that she was in a section of law books and records of trials. Droln followed her as she explored through the atlases and travelers¡¯ journals, and past the architectural plans until she stopped suddenly at an open arched doorway.

    ¡°There are other rooms,¡± she whispered in awe. Poking her head in, she looked back at her friend in wonder. ¡°It¡¯s full of scrolls. Heaven knows how old they are.¡± She scoffed a little in amazement and continued her route around the circumference of the room, glancing at those studying as she passed them. Many of them were certainly preparing for the exam. When she came to the next doorway, she caught her breath and stepped back suddenly, hiding.

    ¡°There¡¯s someone crying in there.¡±

    Concerned, Droln glanced through the doorway, also pulling back quickly.

    ¡°That¡¯s Prince Tolk¨¦,¡± he said softly. ¡°I should see if he¡¯s alright. Can I leave you here?¡±

    Al¨ªs smiled and gestured around at all the books.

    ¡°Please do.¡±

    He touched his forehead to hers in silent thanks and slipped into the small chamber.

    Tolk¨¦ was still inside, alone, standing quite still with his arms crossed tightly across his middle and his head bowed. When he heard Droln¡¯s footsteps he looked up, startled, wiping his eyes.

    ¡°Droln!¡± he tried to put on a smile, but it was a weak mask. ¡°What a pleasant surprise.¡±

    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Droln asked in a soft voice, not letting him change the subject.

    The prince shook his head a little, trying to dismiss the question.

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Just the usual¡­ argument.¡±

    Droln wanted to say something, but he felt it was not in his place to criticize the king; at least he assumed that''s what had upset the prince so much. For the most part, Tolk¨¦ was optimistic and cheerful, as far as Droln had seen, but any time that his smile had faded, it seemed to be due to the harsh words of the king. He wondered what criticism Gaon had given the young prince this time.

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter,¡± Tolk¨¦ insisted, taking a few slow breaths to calm himself. ¡°He always gets this way this time of year. King¡¯s Day is soon.¡±

    ¡°The anniversary of his coronation?¡±

    ¡°Officially, yes, that¡¯s how most people see it. But those of us with medallions usually think of the events directly preceding it.¡±

    ¡°Your father¡¯s death,¡± Droln realized with a sigh. ¡°Tolk¨¦, I¡¯m so sorry.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m alright. Gaon¡¯s the sensitive one.¡± He crossed his arms again, this time looking more irritated than hurt. ¡°He talks about our father endlessly, what he wanted, what he believed, what sort of man he was. But he can¡¯t stand when I have something to say about him. I was too little to remember him, he says. Maybe he¡¯s right.¡±

    ¡°No,¡± Droln disagreed firmly, touching the prince¡¯s shoulder. ¡°That isn¡¯t fair. People are too complex to be fully understood by any one person. Your memories of him are as true as your brother¡¯s.¡±

    "Perhaps," the prince agreed softly. "At least I''ll think about it. Thank you. What are you doing in the library, by the way?"

    "Why so surprised?" the captain crossed his arms. "Do I not seem... bookly to you?"

    "Not exactly," Tolk¨¦ chuckled, already appearing to have forgotten his tears. "Especially not if you use words like that."

    "Fair enough. I''m here with a friend who is in fact rather bookly."

    "I''ll leave you to them then. But before you go, look at me," the prince faced him directly to show his face clearly. "Do I look like I''ve been crying?"

    "You look how you always do," Droln confirmed after briefly examining Tolk¨¦ for swollen eyes or redness.

    "And how do I always look?"

    "Normal," the captain said quickly, ignoring the other distracting words that came to mind.

 Chapter 3: The Holy Successor

    The pillared corridors of the imperial palace echoed with the soft patter of bare feet and the whispering swish of robes brushing over the mosaic tile floors. A procession of priests, bearing lanterns, made its way to the locked door that had only one key. Abros Malan, the keeper of the key, approached the ancient entrance and pulled the hood of his veil over his shaven head. All the others in the procession did the same; no one was to enter a holy place with an uncovered head.

    The door was adorned with many images and symbols; the sun and moons, many silver and gold stars, pearly clouds, jade trees and vines, sapphire seas, and all manner of birds and beasts graced the entrance into the sacred stairs. Abros fitted the silver key into the lock and turned it with a click; as old as the door was, it had been well taken care of for centuries by the faithful. The stairs behind the door were many, spiraling deep down beneath the earth, but they descended fearlessly. Leading them, Abros felt the familiar sense of anticipation and wonder that he always did when he entered this sacred place; he knew it was a privilege to even pass through the first door.

    When they at last reached the bottom, they were met with sight of the entrance to the ancient Celestial Temple, housed in a tremendous cavern that was once a garden. A clear pool stood between the stairs and the second door, flanked by beautiful but crumbling statues of saints. Standing before the door with arms outstretched stood the Holy Emperor, Haintar the Sage. Abros had unlocked the first door an hour before so that Haintar could enter alone and meditate before the others arrived. After treading across the cracked paving stones lined with withered, brown vines, Abros approached the Holy Emperor, offering the second key with a bow.

    ¡°Your Imperial Holiness,¡± he greeted reverently. ¡°Enter the Celestial Temple and walk in the divine presence of the gods.¡±

    The other priests had scattered among the cave, finding places to sit and pray among the ruins of the once grand courtyard. While the Holy Emperor was to enter the Celestial Temple, they would meditate and sing hymns, being as close to the presence of the gods as they were permitted.

    The Holy Emperor lowered his arms and turned toward Abros, his successor. He accepted the key, exchanging it for the diamond crown he wore. Although he was the highest priest in the Holy Empire, even he could not wear a crown before the gods. He instead lifted the hood of his veil and covered his dove-white hair, preparing to enter the innermost sacred place. He took a single candle as well, to light the candles and lamps within.

    ¡°Pray for me, good brother Abros,¡± he said, and the Holy Successor nodded, turning away from the doors. No one but the wearer of the diamond crown was permitted to even look inside the Celestial Temple. Hearing the mechanism of the key behind him, Abros listened for the rumble of the ancient doors twice; once opened, and then again, closed. Once he heard both, he knew it was safe to face the doors again, so he did. The Holy Emperor was now out of sight, once again inside the Celestial Temple, the only place in this realm where the gods deigned to meet mortals.

    Kneeling on the ground to wait, Abros held the crown in both hands carefully, staring at it as he often did. It was a beautiful piece of craftsmanship, featuring a variety of cut diamonds, framed by delicate silver filigree, and the light refracted through the many facets onto his dark brown fingers almost as if it were enchanted. He rotated it slowly, touching each of the clear jewels as he silently counted them. He already knew how many there were, of course, as he completed this ritual every time the Holy Emperor placed it in his hands and disappeared behind the second door. One day it would be his to wear, just as it would be his turn to hand the diamond crown to his successor and pass through the door to the Celestial Temple.

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    Once he completed a full revolution of the crown in his hands, Abros instead gazed at the door itself, and his thoughts tried to go inside. He had envisioned what the interior looked like many times, sometimes rearranging things as if it were a doll¡¯s house; he would imagine the decorative elements, such as the statues of each of the gods that would appear there, or the height of the ceiling, or other details that he had not yet been able to witness for himself. It was easy to picture a place of beauty, basing it on temples and palaces he had visited before, but the reaches of his mind¡¯s eye could never imagine the gods themselves.

    There were many portrayals of the gods of heaven, from murals to illuminated manuscripts, and their features were well known throughout the Holy Empire, as described by Emperors and Empresses that had spoken with them across the ages. Abros was sure that he would be able to recognize any of them should he get the chance to see them for himself, whether they took their more human-like appearances, or the stranger, otherworldly forms. Some lucky faithful occasionally saw the gods in dreams, and recorded their visions as well; Abros had read such accounts in the library of the imperial palace, and yet he still could not imagine them for himself.

    It was not only the appearance of the holy gods that he could not envision, but the feeling of their divine presence. All who have written on such things describe wondrous sensations and emotions, but their words could only convey so much. How does one impart the awe of seeing their creator? Surely the description of joy and rapture cannot fully express what it is to come face to face with eternal beings of unimaginable power. Abros knew something of what it is to hear from heaven; as a star reader, he had long studied the art of interpreting the skies and receiving their messages, but it was but a taste of what he most looked forward to. Heaven willing, when he would be crowned Holy Emperor, he would at last be granted access to all the knowledge and wisdom and love of heaven on earth.

    The ancient door creaked and groaned again, so Abros tightly closed his eyes, so that he might not accidentally look where he was forbidden to see. Once the soft boom of the door shutting confirmed that he was no longer in danger, he opened his eyes and got to his feet.

    ¡°Your Imperial Holiness,¡± Abros welcomed eagerly. ¡°What did they say?¡±

    ¡°Many things,¡± the Holy Emperor replied, removing the hood of his veil and donning a worn smile. ¡°But I am tired, good brother. I will speak with you about it tomorrow.¡±

    Holding in a sigh, Abros returned the crown to its rightful owner; the same reply was given every time. No matter what questions he had for the Holy Emperor, he would have to wait until the elderly priest was rested enough to relay the words of heaven. By then, often he could not remember everything clearly, or his words were vague. But Abros could not be sure that he too would not be exhausted from an encounter with the divine, so he held his tongue. Retrieving the gold key from the keyhole and tying it to his sashes once again, he offered his arm to his mentor to guide him across the ancient garden path. He cast one last glance over his shoulder at the door to his dreams before continuing on his way to fulfill his earthly duties.

 Chapter 4: Meeting Her Match

    Al¨ªs sat quite still, holding her breath, staring at the curtain in front of her. Her match was on the other side, almost within reach, and in only a moment, the veil would be pulled aside and she would see his face. Without having to look, she was aware of her aunt, who now opened the curtain; it swept swiftly away, revealing the face of the man she had seen leaving the tea house. He sat opposite her, and when he saw her, his eyes lit up and a bright smile covered his face.

    ¡°Al¨ªs!¡± he greeted joyfully, getting to his feet.

    She stood as well, speechless. He took her face into his hands gently, beaming down at her, but still she could not speak. She couldn¡¯t seem to take her eyes off him, although she wished to look to her aunt and uncle for answers. It was as if they were the only two people in the room. She had never seen him so close, nor directly before; his smile was kind and his dark eyes held a deepness to them that captivated her.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know your name,¡± she whispered.

    He shook his head a little, as if she had said something funny, and bent down to kiss her.

    The knock on the door abruptly summoned Al¨ªs into her now waking body. It must be Aunt Jain knocking to wake her. Peering at the lattice shutters through barely open eyes, she could see that it was still dark, and her room was still chilled from the night. She did not try to fall back asleep, knowing that she wouldn¡¯t be able to anyway, but she did lay in bed a while longer for warmth. Her sleeping mind had played an unkind trick on her; she still had hours before she would meet her match for the first time.

    A second knock sounded, and Al¨ªs called to allow entry.

    ¡°Oh you are awake,¡± Aunt Jain remarked when she opened the door. She herself was not dressed, only in a night dress and robe, without any sashes on. Her many braids were still wrapped in a satin scarf, not yet pinned up for the day. To Al¨ªs¡¯ delight, Aunt Jain was holding a steaming cup of tea. ¡°You only have time for one cup,¡± she warned, handing it to her niece as she sat up in bed. ¡°Then it¡¯s off to the bath house.¡± She hurried off to dress and Al¨ªs was left alone to warm herself with the herbal brew.

    Once the cup was empty, Al¨ªs rose from the bed and got as ready as she could, knowing she would only undress again to bathe. She only tied her hair back to get it out of the way, rather than in a fashionable style. Unsure of whether she would be permitted to wear her string of beads or not, she tucked them into the pocket of her sash just in case. When she came downstairs, Aunt Jain was also dressed simply, a large bouquet of flowers in her arms as she waited by the door.

    ¡°After the bath house, we¡¯ll visit a shrine to Tivos,¡± she smiled, turning the blossoms so Al¨ªs could appreciate their fragrance.

    Uncle Ilyen was already behind the counter, fully dressed and preparing to open the tea house for the day.

    ¡°Enjoy the fuss as much as you can,¡± he encouraged as he sliced lemons into thin discs. ¡°It may be tiring, but with the right outlook, it can be quite special.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind,¡± Al¨ªs nodded, placing her now empty cup on the counter and leaning over it to kiss his cheek.

    ¡°Now go on so you¡¯re not late. And don¡¯t come back until you¡¯re pretty,¡± he shooed her off while his wife rolled her eyes and led the way.

    Al¨ªs had never seen the streets of Aldren so deserted; even at night there were those who had gone to a tavern or evening tea house still wandering, but now there was no sign of anyone else out this early. All the shop doors were still closed and the windows were shuttered, with the exception of a few bakeries, from which the lighter-than-air aroma of fresh flatbread wafted. Al¨ªs glanced at her aunt hopefully, but the matchmaker didn¡¯t seem to notice, her mind likely occupied by the busy day before them.

    In the shadow of the buildings, Al¨ªs felt as if they were walking in some dim canyon. Ahead she could see the warm yellow glow of a lantern hanging above a doorway. It was the bath house, identifiable by the traditional images of waterlilies carved on the door and the eaves of the low, angled roof.

    ¡°Is the bath house always open this early?¡± Al¨ªs wondered as they neared.

    ¡°Only by appointment,¡± Aunt Jain replied, sounding rather proud that the bath-keeper had made special arrangements just for her. She pushed the carved door open for her niece to enter first.

    It was a much larger bath house than the one in the village; there were no baths in the first room they came to, only a desk like one might see at an inn, and seats to wait for appointments. A menu of sorts hung on the wall, with rates for various treatments and products, as well as hourly rates for public and private baths. As if she were attending on her own, Al¨ªs began to look for the cheaper options, which would have satisfied her personal needs, but Aunt Jain was busy speaking with the man that had just come from some other room. Likely they had already discussed pricing for an esteemed matchmaker.

    ¡°Everything is ready in bath four,¡± he was saying, gesturing to the curtained doorway. ¡°As always, please ring the bell if you need anything at all, Madam Gerrin.¡±

    The moment the heavy curtain was pulled aside, steam floated out lazily, bringing with it a soothing blend of herbal scents. Al¨ªs went in, as gestured by Aunt Jain, finding herself in a hazy hall with numbered doorways, once again closed by curtains of velvet and strings of wooden beads. Passing the entrances until she was at the one labeled four, she glanced at her aunt.

    ¡°This must be terribly expensive,¡± she worried.

    ¡°Never mind,¡± Aunt Jain shook her head. ¡°This sort of thing is included in the matchmaker¡¯s fee. Go on.¡±

    She obeyed, coming to the haziest room of them all, where an enormous square tub sat in the center. She could see the glow of hot coals at her feet beneath the large bath, and the surface of the water danced and stirred with heat invitingly. Glancing over her shoulder to make sure that the curtain door was closed, she untied her sash and unwrapped her simple dress; Aunt Jain took them readily, folding them carefully and placing them in a basket off to the side, along with the bouquet she had brought. Naked, Al¨ªs stepped into the hot water that eagerly swallowed her body. The bath was lined with green and blue ceramic tiles that were smooth to the touch. Bottles of varying sizes and colors, as well as a dish holding a bar of creamy speckled soap sat within reach, but for now she wanted to just soak in the warmth for a quiet moment. The low-ceilinged room felt very old, and full of time, but it was quite clean and well cared for.

    ¡°In a moment, we¡¯ll be joined by a few attendants,¡± Aunt Jain told her, sitting on the edge of the tub. ¡°They will help wash your body and face and¡­ my heavens, all of that hair.¡±

    ¡°Sometimes I think about cutting it,¡± Al¨ªs smirked, closing her eyes and leaning her head back against the tiled edge of the tub. ¡°But I don¡¯t think I would quite be myself without it.¡±

    ¡°It suits you,¡± she agreed. ¡°And on a day like today, a traditional style can be very useful. You might be surprised at how easily clients are influenced by a painting come to life.¡±

    ¡°I should wear my beads then?¡±

    ¡°Oh yes. I know you and your sister always do, but it¡¯s not uncommon for other brides to do so on matchmaking and wedding days. Funny how traditions suddenly become important.¡±

    There was a quiet pause until Aunt Jain seemed to remember what she had been saying.

    ¡°After bathing,¡± she continued. ¡°The attendants will style your hair, and apply cosmetics and perfume and all those things. Your gown and robes will be delivered from the seamstress by then.¡±

    ¡°Uncle Ilyen was right. It is a lot of fuss.¡±

    ¡°You can enjoy it,¡± she reminded. ¡°If you let yourself. Getting all dressed up can be nice, hm? Wait until you see how you look.¡±

    ¡°Gods, I wish I were Lilia right now,¡± Al¨ªs chuckled. ¡°She loves beautiful things.¡±

    ¡°If she hasn¡¯t changed since I saw her last,¡± Aunt Jain mused with a laugh. ¡°Then I seem to remember that she finds beauty everywhere. One visit, she brought me a fly that she found laying on the window sill. ¡®It looks like a jewel,¡¯ she told me. ¡®So green and shiny.¡¯ A dead fly.¡±

    Al¨ªs squeezed her eyes shut even tighter, suddenly feeling rather homesick.

    ¡°Oh, dear,¡± Aunt Jain noticed with a sigh. ¡°Don¡¯t cry, sweet. Lilia will visit soon.¡±

    She opened her eyes again, although there were a few tears lingering, blurring her vision. She took a few breaths to calm herself, grateful for the sweet herbal aroma all around her.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I will be.¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re finally here. Come in,¡± she called toward the doorway, and three young women entered and bowed. ¡°Good morning, ladies. This is Al¨ªs, the bride-to-be.¡±

    Al¨ªs nodded her head in a bow to greet them, and the three of them busied themselves right away. One poked at the coals beneath the tub while the other two neared the corner where Al¨ªs sat. They spoke very little, only giving her brief instructions in hushed tones, asking her to turn this way or that, or give her arm or other body part to be washed. They used soft bristled brushes to scrub her, sometimes using the bar of soap, and other times various syrups from the glass bottles that foamed when they rubbed it in their hands. Most of the things they used smelled lovely, either of sweet herbs or delicate blossoms, until a thick sort of jelly was smeared all over her face; it reminded her of a bitter medicine, and of course the pungent smell was far stronger than the sweet aromas that had previously filled the steamy room. Al¨ªs glanced at her aunt, who returned her gaze with a sympathetic grimace, and she decided not to complain, although even sweet Lilia would not have been able to find beauty in the sludge that coated her skin.

    Of course, washing her waist-length hair took a bit of time, but it was the most pleasant part, and Al¨ªs did not have to convince herself to enjoy it, despite the sticky herbal concoction still on her face. Although she did not care much for luxury, she decided that if she were to find herself with a comfortable amount of wealth, she would still like to come to a bath house to have someone else wash her hair for her. Perhaps she would even live in a large enough house that had its own private bath. She had no idea what sort of background her future husband came from.

    ¡°Do you have a lot of clients like me?¡± she asked.

    ¡°Like you in what way?¡±

    ¡°Sash patters.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I don¡¯t know that term,¡± Aunt Jain folded her hands together curiously.

    ¡°Sash patters,¡± Al¨ªs said again. ¡°They pat the sashes of those they meet to see what might be hidden in the pockets.¡±

    ¡°Someone after money?¡± the matchmaker clarified, her dark eyes wide with disbelief. ¡°Al¨ªs, you are not a¡­ sash patter.¡±

    Of course, now was the time for Al¨ªs to scrub the horrid smelling slime off her face, so she was unable to answer for a long moment. And immediately following that, she was instructed by the attendants to leave the tub, stepping into an enormous towel that they held for her. Once dry, she remained wrapped in it, sitting on the chair that was waiting for her off to the side while the three ladies began drying her hair in sections with many small towels.

    ¡°Al¨ªs,¡± Aunt Jain¡¯s voice was stern, but gentle, as she prodded to return to their conversation. ¡°What makes you say such a thing?¡±

    ¡°Well I am not exactly finding a match for love.¡±

    ¡°Plenty of practical matches fall in love, in time.¡±

    ¡°And this is a very practical match, of course.¡±

    ¡°Did your uncle give something away?¡± the matchmaker narrowed her eyes suspiciously.

    ¡°All Uncle Ilyen told me,¡± Al¨ªs began while her hair was combed. ¡°Is that I will almost certainly be taking my husband¡¯s family name, not the other way around. And even that little information was after much insistence. He refused to say more.¡±

    Aunt Jain let out a sigh, looking quite relieved.

    ¡°I thought you might have looked into things,¡± she shook her head. ¡°You are a very clever girl, and if you wanted to, I¡¯m sure you could have learned everything on your own quite easily.¡±

    ¡°I like surprises,¡± Al¨ªs chuckled. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t want to spoil things for myself. And I trust you and Uncle Ilyen to match me with someone that will suit me. In fact, you seem more nervous than I am.¡±

    ¡°That is almost certainly true.¡±

    ¡°How long will this take?¡± Al¨ªs looked up at the attendants who were braiding and tucking her long hair into an elaborate traditional style; she had already lost count of the pins they had used. ¡°I don¡¯t mean to sound impatient,¡± she added quickly.

    ¡°At least an hour,¡± one of them replied.

    ¡°Perfect. Aunt Jain, why don¡¯t you use the bath while you wait? Just to relax.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I shouldn¡¯t,¡± she protested, glancing at the shimmering, steaming water.

    ¡°I saw the prices,¡± Al¨ªs argued with a smile. ¡°You¡¯re paying for the room, not for each person. Go on, there¡¯s plenty of time.¡±

    After hesitating a moment more, Aunt Jain relented, undressing and getting into the tiled tub with a long, slow exhale. Al¨ªs smiled to herself once her aunt¡¯s eyes were closed, choosing to sit quietly while the three ladies worked on transforming her into a traditional beauty.

    Giving her mind the freedom to wander aimlessly from thought to thought, Al¨ªs allowed the expert hands to practice their art on her, only half aware of the combs, hair pins, creams, and fine tipped brushes that passed over her hair and face. A messenger arrived after some time, bearing large parcels wrapped in brown paper and twine. Aunt Jain instructed her to lay them on the shelf, waiting for the curtain to close once more before emerging from the bath to dry and dress quickly.

    ¡°Feeling better?¡± Al¨ªs inquired, watching the matchmaker cross the room to inspect the delivery from the tailor.

    ¡°Mm, yes,¡± Aunt Jain replied absently, already back to work. She untied the strings of the first parcel and unfolded the edges of the paper, like a blossoming flower, revealing bright silk within.

    Al¨ªs found herself craning her neck to see, suddenly curious. Although she had gotten many new clothes over the past several months, none were as colorful or fine as what she would be wearing today. Noticing her interest, Aunt Jain lifted the robe by the shoulders so Al¨ªs could better see the lustrous pink material, edged in a wide trim embroidered with roses and leaves.

    ¡°I thought it would be poetic,¡± Aunt Jain smiled. ¡°To match your name.¡±

    ¡°Very poetic,¡± Al¨ªs agreed, but then she was asked to close her eyes by one of the attendants, so she was unable to see the next parcels being opened. She could feel more combs and hair ornaments being placed in her hair, and a thin brush swept over her eyelids, followed by a gentle breeze as one of the attendants waved a fan to dry the cosmetics. Finally, her lips were painted precisely; although her eyes were closed, she knew it was traditional berry red.

    ¡°We¡¯ll have to hurry now,¡± Aunt Jain said. ¡°Let¡¯s get you dressed.¡±

    After putting on her underthings on her own, Al¨ªs stepped in front of the mirror to let the others help her dress in the traditional, formal clothes. Even before stepping into the stiff brocade skirt of spring yellow, she smiled at her reflection; the expert attendants had done beautiful work on her. Her eyes had been lined and accented elegantly, and a small, perfect red circle had been painted on each cheek, matching her now vibrant lips. The style they had pulled her black hair into was intricate but elegant, and adorned with combs in the shape of flying birds, and long gold pins with beaded tassels that swung when she moved. Aunt Jain looked very pleased as she stood off to the side, her chin resting on her hand in an approving way as the three ladies helped Al¨ªs put on both layers of robes, each a different rosy shade. They were careful in making sure that the long and full sleeves were nested properly, and that the edges of each layer had wrapped across her chest evenly, even securing them with hidden buttons inside. The first sash was the kind that laced tightly, and was much wider than the everyday sashes that were popular these days, covering her entire middle. The second sash was incredibly long, and they wrapped it around her waist thrice before tying; even after tying a complicated knot, the ends fell almost to her knees.

    Aunt Jain brought the string of beads from the basket of Al¨ªs¡¯ own clothes, fastening them around her niece herself.

    ¡°There,¡± she said with a bright smile. ¡°What do you think?¡±

    ¡°Worth the fuss, perhaps.¡±

    ¡°Ah, perhaps,¡± she smirked, turning to thank the attendants, reminding them that the bath keeper would pay them outside. ¡°Now let us hurry to the shrine to pay our respects, and then back to the tea house.¡±

    Al¨ªs was relieved that the traditional clothes were not too difficult to move around in; although the waist was tight and the skirt had little movement to it, there was enough space for her to walk comfortably. The outermost robe was long enough to trail on the ground, but the hem had been neatly folded up and tucked into her sashes for ease of travel; once they were at the tea house, it would be let down. She didn¡¯t mind that the tight sash caused her to stand up a bit straighter than she normally might. It was a small discomfort to pay for the chance at a new future.

    Leaving the bath house, it was almost as if they had been transported to a different street. Not only was it a bright, sunny morning, but it was rather crowded now, with people on foot, in carts, and upon horses and donkeys. Aunt Jain took Al¨ªs by the hand to keep them together as they navigated the now busy street. The shrine to Tivos was not directly on the way home, but it was in a nearby alley. There were a few others already there, most dressed up like Al¨ªs was in traditional clothes. One young man was fully dressed in wedding clothes of many sashes, pouring water over the carved stone feet of Tivos. Aunt Jain passed her niece the bouquet to lay at the shrine, stepping aside to greet another matchmaker there.

    Once one of the other worshippers had finished their prayers and offerings and made room, Al¨ªs approached the shrine. She knelt on the low stool, careful to manage her trailing sleeves. Silently praying for a successful match, she placed the flowers with the others. There were blooms of all colors strewn at the base of the small house frame that the god of love and marriage lived in, and their sweet fragrance filled the air. Taking up the ladle, Al¨ªs filled it in the trough below, letting the water trickle over the god¡¯s feet. She wondered if she should even pray for love to come to the match; maybe it would happen in time, but she had other things to worry about until then. She noticed that those kneeling on either side of her had already been replaced by new worshippers, and concluded her prayer to make room for the next.

    Aunt Jain hastily bid farewell to the other matchmaker and joined her niece. Neither spoke as they made their way back to the tea house, each deep in her thoughts. When they returned, there were a few customers seated, mostly regulars that always came in for a pot of tea before the work day. Those that knew Al¨ªs smiled and bowed to her from their seats, clasping their hands together and shaking them toward her in a gesture of good luck. Touched by their well wishes, Al¨ªs bowed gratefully in return. Aunt Jain instructed her to go upstairs to the parlor, but before she set foot on the stairs, the chimes over the door twinkled, and Droln entered, out of breath.

    ¡°I thought I¡¯d miss you,¡± he huffed, hurrying over to her.

    ¡°You nearly did,¡± she nodded a head up the stairs. ¡°Is something wrong?¡±

    ¡°No, I just- ¡± he paused to take a few big breaths, his hands on his hips. ¡°I wanted to wish you luck. Here.¡± From his sashes he pulled a small pendant of smooth red stone, carved in an eternal knot. ¡°I know you¡¯re used to jade of green and white, but this is jade from my home. It should still be lucky, I hope.¡±

    ¡°Ah, how thoughtful,¡± Al¨ªs murmured, moved by the gesture.

    ¡°Linn usually wore it on a chain around her neck,¡± he continued, looking at the pendant in his hand. ¡°But perhaps you can add it to your string of beads.¡±

    ¡°This belonged to your sister?¡± she found herself whispering. It was an even kinder gift than she had thought. ¡°Droln, I shouldn¡¯t take this, it¡¯s too precious.¡±

    ¡°From one sister to another,¡± he insisted, holding it out to her.

    ¡°Al¨ªs!¡± Aunt Jain whispered frantically from behind the counter, putting enormous gold and turquoise earrings on. ¡°They¡¯ll be here any minute!¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t have time now,¡± Al¨ªs sighed, taking the pendant and placing it safely within a pocket of her own sashes. ¡°But I will string it on later. Thank you. Truly. I¡¯d kiss you if I weren¡¯t all painted.¡±

    ¡°You do look ridiculous,¡± Droln chuckled. ¡°But very nice. You¡¯d better hurry upstairs. I¡¯ll come for tea tonight and you can tell me everything.¡±

    She squeezed his hand and climbed the stairs before Aunt Jain could scold her again. The upstairs parlor had been cleaned and rearranged. Uncle Ilyen was there, putting final touches on everything; there were flowers in vases all around, and he was busy pulling the woven curtain across the room. Al¨ªs had noticed the rod that spanned the length of the room before, but now it split the space in two, concealing the other side.

    ¡°Ah, who¡¯s that?¡± Uncle Ilyen teased when he noticed her, pausing his task to look at her fully. ¡°Sorry miss, this is a private parlor.¡±

    ¡°They did a good job, didn¡¯t they?¡± Al¨ªs turned around once to show him.

    ¡°Indeed they did,¡± he came over to help untuck the hem of her outer robe, lowering it to the ground so that it flowed behind her like water. ¡°Ah, you look just like a painting.¡±

    ¡°I wish Lilia could see. She¡¯d be only a little jealous.¡±

    A giggle sounded from behind the curtain, followed by a shush.

    ¡°I¡¯m no good at surprises!¡± Lilia¡¯s voice protested, not even quiet enough to be a whisper.

    Her eyes wide, Al¨ªs passed her chuckling uncle to come around the curtain where her brother and sister waited.

    ¡°We¡¯ve been found out!¡± the youngest squeaked, jumping up from her seat to embrace her sister.

    ¡°You¡¯re here,¡± Al¨ªs managed breathily, her throat suddenly tight as Lilia pulled her close.

    Yan stood and joined them, putting his arms around both.

    ¡°Don¡¯t cry, Al,¡± he comforted with a kiss on her head. ¡°You¡¯ll ruin the paint. Ah, you smell so nice.¡±

    ¡°And you really look nice too,¡± Lilia added, touching the large red tassels that hung from her waist. ¡°Like a princess in a song.¡±

    Unable to say anything for a moment, Al¨ªs closed her eyes and savored being held by both of them. Lilia wasn¡¯t quiet for long, too excited to keep her thoughts to herself.

    ¡°All along we kept saying it was a shame that you wouldn¡¯t have anyone sitting with you today, except Aunt and Uncle, and they¡¯re making the match anyway, so we couldn¡¯t have you alone so I asked and begged and Papa finally said yes, so we¡¯re here!¡±

    Yan let them both go and they stood apart slightly, all holding hands.

    ¡°I¡¯m so glad to see you,¡± Al¨ªs shook her head, still blinking to keep from crying. ¡°Lil, are those my sashes?¡±

    ¡°None of mine were nice enough for an important meeting,¡± she defended with a sheepish look.

    ¡°Never mind,¡± Al¨ªs shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m just glad you¡¯re here. And Yan, you even combed your hair.¡±

    ¡°I can uncomb it if you¡¯d like,¡± he threatened good-naturedly.

    ¡°You¡¯d better get settled behind the curtain, all of you,¡± Uncle Ilyen waved them away, glancing at the stairs, and they obeyed.

    There were three chairs, one in the center facing the curtain, and the other two on either side, slightly behind. Al¨ªs took her place in front, trying to imagine what sort of man would be seated in the chair opposite her. Lilia seemed to be thinking the same thing.

    ¡°What if he¡¯s old?¡± she whispered, sitting on the edge of her seat.

    ¡°Lil, behave,¡± Yan scolded, but he sounded more anxious than annoyed.

    ¡°I don¡¯t mind older men,¡± Al¨ªs replied in a hushed voice, still facing forward. The man she had seen from her window was certainly older than her, and she quite liked the way he looked.

    ¡°But what if he¡¯s not just older, but old? Grey hair and no teeth and everything.¡±

    Al¨ªs was about to say something about their aunt being too considerate to pair her with an elderly man, but before she could say anything, the sound of footsteps on the stairs began to grow louder. Due to the stiff nature of her clothing, she was already sitting up quite straight, but she did make other small adjustments, such as arranging her sleeves and the hem of her robe.

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    ¡°She¡¯s already here?¡± a man¡¯s low voice asked; Al¨ªs recognized it as the one she had heard through her bedroom door, and the memory of that morning¡¯s dream taunted her once more. Her heartbeat quickened at the thought of seeing him so close in just a short while.

    ¡°Yes, she and her family are seated on the other side,¡± Aunt Jain replied, her tone even more polite and calm than usual. ¡°Please make yourselves comfortable.¡±

    More footsteps sounded as they settled in their chairs, and Aunt Jain came into view, standing at the edge of the curtain so that both sides could see her. She smiled at Al¨ªs, but it seemed more of a neutral, courteous smile than one she would normally give her. Al¨ªs was reminded that it was more than likely that those sitting on the other side of the curtain were unaware of their familial connection. Uncle Ilyen stood on the opposite end of the partition, but he was daring enough to wink at his niece.

    ¡°Thank you all for coming today,¡± Aunt Jain began, speaking to both parties, her tone even and welcoming. ¡°The parting of the curtain at a first meeting is a long-held custom in the tradition of matchmaking, and I¡¯m so pleased that you have chosen to partake in it. First is the exchange of names.¡± She gestured first to Al¨ªs, who was glad that she had just been speaking with her siblings, as her voice would not be as subdued and rough as it normally might this early in the day.

    ¡°My name is Al¨ªs Rinak,¡± she announced, just as she had practiced before. At the time, she had thought it foolish that Aunt Jain insisted she rehearse her own name, but now that she was here in the curtained room, she was glad of it. The instructions she had been given on exactly how to enunciate and practically sing her words had been irritatingly detailed, but she was so pleased with the result that she was astonished to hear an introduction given back.

    ¡°My name is Jall¨¦s Orin,¡± the man on the other side of the curtain said, surprising Al¨ªs; he sounded softer than she was expecting, but perhaps he was nervous. She hadn¡¯t considered that perhaps he would be as anxious as she was about their first meeting.

    ¡°Al¨ªs is twenty years old,¡± Aunt Jain proceeded with the introductions. ¡°She is preparing for the civil service exam, and specializes in linguistics. In addition to scholarly pursuits, she has artistic interests, including poetry, calligraphy, music, and dance.¡±

    As the matchmaker spoke, Al¨ªs found herself holding her breath, hoping that those sitting on the other side of the partition would approve of everything that was being said about her.

    ¡°Sitting with Al¨ªs today are her brother Yan, and her sister Lilia.¡±

    There was a very brief pause before Aunt Jain continued.

    ¡°Jall¨¦s is twenty-seven years old. He has already taken the initial civil service exam, but is preparing for the next level of exam for the study of law. He is interested in classic literature and history.¡±

    Al¨ªs found herself sitting up even straighter than before; she had yet to meet anyone who was as interested in books as she was, but it seemed that he had been found. Even though the curtain had yet to be drawn, she found herself thanking Tivos, and indeed her aunt and uncle, for introducing a match that loved to read.

    ¡°Sitting with Jall¨¦s is his mother Elaine Orin, and his godfather, my lord King Gaon.¡±

    So not only was she about to meet her future husband, but the king himself. And it was likely she would see the king fairly often, given that her match was his godson. It of course made sense now that Uncle Ilyen had said she would likely take Jall¨¦s¡¯ family name. Without turning around, Al¨ªs could tell that her sister was anxiously squirming at the introduction of the king, and that Yan was likely gesturing at her to sit still.

    ¡°If you are ready, we will now part the curtain for your first meeting.¡± Aunt Jain looked to each of them, and after receiving confirmation, pulled the braided rope that caused the woven partition to sweep to one side.

    Seated across from Al¨ªs was a stranger; not the man whose face she had memorized from afar. Before her sat a lanky young man, who sat quite upright; his hands clasped the edge of his seat, but they could hardly turn paler from the firm grip, as his skin was already rather fair, except for his cheeks, which were glowing like hot coals. His hair was dark and short, flying every which way as if he had been running, although it seemed that it would look like that no matter what he did. His eyes, which stared directly into Al¨ªs¡¯, were a watery blue. Like her, he was dressed in traditional clothes, with two long sleeved robes wrapped across his chest and secured by a stiff sash, but Al¨ªs imagined that even without the constricting garment, his posture would remain the same. Although most men in the traditional robes looked stately, Jall¨¦s appeared merely uncomfortable and out of place. Perhaps even frightened.

    Now that Al¨ªs had gotten her initial view of him, she bowed to greet him, offering the nervous fellow a smile. He also bowed and tried to smile back, but his lips were pressed so tightly together that it was more like a grimace. Perhaps with a genuine smile he might be almost handsome, but such a natural and relaxed expression might not come for a little while.

    Aunt Jain was speaking again, but Al¨ªs hardly heard her, as she had suddenly taken notice of those who sat beside Jall¨¦s. Opposite Yan sat an elegant middle aged woman, evidently her future mother-in-law. Al¨ªs bowed to greet her, looking then to the other side to acknowledge the king as well, but she was so surprised at the sight of him that she froze.

    The very man that Al¨ªs has witnessed leaving the tea house the day of the first meeting was sitting across from Lilia, wearing the gold medallion of the king. He was dressed formally as well, although his robes were simpler than the extravagant ones the potential couple wore. His eyes were on Al¨ªs, as if he were measuring her; he did not smile, although his expression was not too grim. He must have met with her aunt and uncle on behalf of his godson, but when she saw him, she had assumed that he was her match. She realized that she had not yet bowed to him, so she did so hastily from her seat, feeling quite foolish. She wished she had gathered her wits sooner, but she couldn¡¯t tell how much time had passed since the curtain had been pulled aside; perhaps it was only a brief moment that she had neglected her manners. Still, it felt as if everyone in the room were staring at her. Her face felt hot and her throat was dry, but she tried to focus on her breathing.

    ¡°After we all have tea,¡± Aunt Jain was saying. ¡°We will give Al¨ªs and Jall¨¦s time to speak to one another, as informally as they like.¡±

    Uncle Ilyen gestured to the table set for tea, carefully and wordlessly prompting each person to take the proper seat according to the matchmaking traditions. They were seated in the same formation that they had been in just now, with the table in the center in place of the curtain. Lilia made herself useful by helping Al¨ªs arrange the trailing hem of her outer robe so that she would not have to awkwardly stoop.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Lilia whispered as she adjusted her sister¡¯s garments.

    ¡°The king,¡± Al¨ªs said stupidly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be nervous,¡± the younger sister encouraged, of course having no understanding of the mistake Al¨ªs had made. Either way, she had been able to tell that she was not quite herself, so Al¨ªs forced herself to relax, and did her best to maintain a pleasant expression on her face. She had to get used to the idea that the fellow across from her was her match, not the king. As it was, Jall¨¦s seemed nervous enough for the both of them. Now that they were sitting much closer to one another, he seemed overwhelmed by the proximity, and hardly lifted his eyes. His cheeks were still a bashful shade of red.

    There was no question that Lilia was the youngest present, so she carefully rose from her seat to pour the tea, starting with the king. Al¨ªs knew that such a responsibility meant a lot to her sister, but perhaps she had been practicing. Once each cup had been filled, and Lilia had taken her seat beside her sister, Aunt Jain raised her cup. The rest of the party followed suit, looking to the matchmaker to begin the next portion of the meeting.

    ¡°Drink and enjoy,¡± she encouraged. ¡°Now is the time to learn about one another¡¯s families; anyone may ask a question if it comes to mind.¡± She took the first sip to officially begin the tea time, and there was a brief silence before anyone was bold enough to begin the conversation. Al¨ªs glanced at her older brother, who gave her a small nod; she suspected he had come prepared with questions on behalf of their parents, but he seemed to be waiting for her to speak before him.

    ¡°Madam Gerrin says that your family owns land,¡± Jall¨¦s¡¯ mother began before Al¨ªs even decided which question she wanted to ask.

    ¡°It¡¯s called Summervale, in Salm¨¹,¡± Yan replied, speaking on behalf of their father. ¡°It¡¯s two days east from Aldren.¡±

    ¡°I know that village,¡± she replied with a nod. ¡°Our family land is outside of Merr; about halfway between here and Salm¨¹. We call it Cypresswood.¡±

    Without having to worry about appearing polite, Al¨ªs smiled at this news; this meant that any time spent at the Orin manor would be a chance to see her family. It was an even better situation than she had been imagining.

    ¡°Do you grow anything there?¡± Lilia spoke up, using her very best grown up tone.

    ¡°Oh yes. Peaches, plums, grapes,¡± Madam Orin listed, her eyes squinting a little as she tried to remember. ¡°Dates. Olives some years. Am I forgetting anything?¡± She looked to her son, who shook his head, but still kept his gaze lowered. ¡°Jall¨¦s manages the estate and winery. What do you grow?¡±

    Lilia¡¯s eyes had grown wide at the many crops named, but blinked to return to a normal expression and kept her head high as she replied carefully.

    ¡°Oranges,¡± she said proudly.

    Al¨ªs immediately sipped her tea to prevent a laugh from escaping; they had less than a dozen trees in their grove. It was hardly comparable to what must be many acres of farmland and orchards. She decided to change topics before any more questions about their humble homestead could be asked.

    ¡°I am curious about your family symbol,¡± she looked to Madam Orin at first, but then turned her gaze toward the still silent son. ¡°I saw that it is a bird of sorts, but I¡¯m afraid I couldn¡¯t tell whether it is a raven or a crow.¡±

    There was a pause, where both Madam Orin and Jall¨¦s waited for the other to speak; the mother shifted in her seat ever so slightly, possibly due to nudging her son with her foot, and he at last raised his head to speak to Al¨ªs.

    ¡°It¡¯s a raven,¡± he clarified, clearing his throat. ¡°It¡¯s a sign of prosperity.¡±

    Another brief pause, and another possible nudge occurred beneath the table. Al¨ªs maintained her smile, trying to remain patient with his bashfulness; she wished they could skip ahead in the day so that just the two of them could speak and be friendly without the weight of tradition surrounding them.

    ¡°What is the Rinak family symbol?¡± he managed to ask, although he could only look at her directly for a moment before being overwhelmed once more.

    ¡°Clover leaves and a blossom,¡± Al¨ªs replied, about to continue to the meaning, but she couldn¡¯t help but notice that her aunt looked suddenly quite uneasy. Following her anxious gaze, she saw that the Gerrin family symbol, also a pattern of clover leaves and blossoms, was inlaid into the floor with different shades of wood. Indeed similar images were carved, woven, and painted in various places all over the parlor.

    The king sat forward a little, looking first at the matchmaker, then her husband, and then Al¨ªs, who now felt quite hot.

    ¡°The clover,¡± he mused. ¡°A sign of sincerity, isn¡¯t it?¡±

    ¡°No, my lord,¡± Al¨ªs replied, grateful that her voice was steady.

    ¡°It is,¡± he insisted before she could say more. She hesitated; shouldn¡¯t it be terrible to contradict the king twice in a row? His gaze was as intent as it had been in her dream. More so, even.

    ¡°It is,¡± she agreed slowly. ¡°For the four leaf clover, I believe. The Rinak family symbol is a three leaf clover.¡±

    ¡°Indeed?¡± the king sat back in his chair, an amused half smile forming. ¡°And what is it a sign of?¡±

    ¡°Loyalty.¡±

    Lilia stood, perhaps too quickly, to refill everyone¡¯s cups, and Al¨ªs forced herself to relax, although she could feel the king¡¯s gaze on her still. As questions continued to be passed back and forth, Al¨ªs noticed that her aunt was still warily glancing at the king, although she managed to politely engage in the conversation. Madam Orin did not seem to notice, and Jall¨¦s was of course still interacting with his cup more than anyone seated at the table. Once the two pots of tea had been emptied, it was time to continue to the next part of the day.

    ¡°Ilyen, dear,¡± Aunt Jain addressed her husband. ¡°Will you please draw the curtain again?¡±

    He obliged, once more separating the room into two, then disappeared behind it.

    ¡°Now Al¨ªs and Jall¨¦s will have an opportunity to get to know one another on their own.¡±

    The two of them crossed to the other side of the curtain, where Uncle Ilyen was just finishing the rearrangement of the furniture; two of the chairs were now beside one another, next to the window. He gestured to the seats to invite them, then excused himself and joined the rest of the party on the other side of the curtain.

    At last they were alone. Al¨ªs looked to Jall¨¦s to see if his posture might relax now that there were fewer eyes on him, but still he stood awkwardly, avoiding eye contact. Although she was frustrated at the young man¡¯s lack of friendliness, she decided to uphold her end of the interaction; perhaps if she were warm toward him, he might even manage to look at her or even smile. Without waiting for him, she took a seat.

    ¡°Thank you again for the gift,¡± she began, choosing to speak softly so that there was less of a chance that their conversation would be overhead. ¡°I have always preferred practical things.¡±

    He hastily sat opposite her, as if he had just realized that the empty chair was for him. He nodded his head a little in a bow to respond to her, and even opened his mouth a little, but closed it again without speaking.

    ¡°Is there something you wanted to say?¡± she prompted, still keeping her voice gentle, hoping she could convince him to warm to her. ¡°Please be as frank as you like.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m terribly sorry,¡± he sighed, fidgeting with the end of his long sash. ¡°You must find me terribly rude. Or¡­ disagreeable.¡±

    ¡°I was under the impression that you were merely nervous,¡± she told him honestly. ¡°Although I can¡¯t figure out what about me is so frightening. I am quite small after all.¡±

    ¡°Beautiful people make me nervous.¡±

    Now it was Al¨ªs¡¯ turn to blush.

    ¡°Ah, you¡¯ve been fooled by the hard work of the bath house attendants,¡± she joked.

    ¡°I¡¯ve seen you before,¡± he countered, with a small shake of his head. ¡°I know what you look like ordinarily.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve seen me?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re friends with Tolk¨¦¡¯s companion,¡± he nodded knowingly.

    ¡°Captain Droln? Yes, we¡¯re good friends.¡±

    Jall¨¦s nodded again, but didn¡¯t say more. Al¨ªs wondered how much time they had left to be alone; she hadn¡¯t learned anything about him yet.

    ¡°Do you have any brothers or sisters?¡± she asked, hoping to find something in common between them.

    ¡°Just me.¡± He was back to the brief replies.

    She sat back in her chair, as much as she could in the restrictive clothes. The day was beginning to feel like a waste. It was quite unfair that she was the only one putting in the effort; she didn¡¯t care how nervous he was. He seemed to notice her frustration, and shifted in his seat as well, somehow managing to look even more anxious, glancing at the curtain.

    ¡°I¡­¡± he began, but didn¡¯t seem to know what he even wanted to say. ¡°We both like books.¡±

    She looked at him, waiting for him to go on. He looked like he was starting to panic; she had been tolerating him well enough until now, but perhaps now he was realizing that politeness against silence could only last so long.

    ¡°Do you like to read about history and natural science?¡±

    Finally, a question.

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure,¡± she replied. ¡°I¡¯ve only read a little history. Most of what I read is fanciful. Poems, songs, stories.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± He was quiet again for a moment; even their commonality was quite different. Another awkward pause floated between them; Al¨ªs knew she could choose to attempt another question, but she decided to leave it to him to continue the conversation again. The longer they sat, the more he fidgeted, until he suddenly spoke again, and his words came out in a burst. ¡°This is not my first potential match,¡± he declared, exasperated. ¡°I know I¡¯m not supposed to mention that, but it¡¯s true. I have met with three¡­ no, four other girls before you.¡±

    ¡°What was wrong with them?¡± Al¨ªs asked in a flat voice, but then realized she was being cruel. She took a small breath and sat up again. ¡°Forgive me, that was unkind of me.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right to mock me,¡± he muttered, embarrassed. ¡°Each was as beautiful and intelligent and accomplished as you are. And each time I stuttered and mumbled, or said almost nothing, or too much.¡±

    Al¨ªs raised an eyebrow at the idea of him being too talkative, but he nodded to assure her it was true.

    ¡°After the first disaster meeting when I was silent, I tried to force myself to speak. I ended up practically giving a lecture on the history of the province.¡±

    ¡°Oh dear,¡± she sighed, starting to pity him. ¡°What did the king think of that?¡±

    ¡°That was before my mother involved him.¡±

    ¡°Do you wish that she hadn¡¯t?¡±

    ¡°No,¡± he began slowly. ¡°He means well, of course. And yet, I hate to disappoint him.¡±

    ¡°He seems serious. Forgive me if this is too forward, but how is that he is your godfather? He isn¡¯t old enough, I would think.¡±

    ¡°Less than ten years between us,¡± Jall¨¦s nodded. ¡°We are related, although there isn¡¯t just one word to describe how.¡±

    ¡°Your mother¡¯s uncle¡¯s husband¡¯s cousin?¡± she wondered jokingly.

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± His eyes widened at her accidental accuracy.

    ¡°Oh?¡± she smirked. ¡°Luckiest guess I ever made.¡±

    He shook his head a little and even smiled a little at the absurdity.

    ¡°Well anyway, Three - I mean, Gaon the third, the king¡¯s father; he was my real godfather, when I was named. So when he died, Four became my godfather.¡±

    ¡°You call the king ¡®Four¡¯?¡± Al¨ªs scoffed in amusement. ¡°I suppose it makes sense within the family with so many shared names. But why did Four inherit¡­ you?¡±

    ¡°Heirs to thrones inherit everything.¡±

    ¡°What a strange tradition.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s the law, as a matter of fact.¡±

    Al¨ªs noticed that Jall¨¦s was now sitting with quite a normal posture, more relaxed now that he was talking about something he knew a lot about. Even though she had learned all she cared to on the topic, she decided it would be wise to encourage him to speak on it more.

    ¡°What is the purpose of such a law?¡±

    ¡°To maintain things through a change of power, mostly,¡± he explained matter-of-factly. ¡°Relationships, land ownership and other assets - debt included. There have been rulers in the past that had stepped down in favor of their heir in an attempt to clear debt and other unfavorable agreements.¡±

    Despite not being interested in the law or its history, Al¨ªs listened attentively, looking for things to admire in her match. He was certainly intelligent and well spoken, once he had something to speak about. She imagined he knew quite a lot about how the kingdom was run. Perhaps he could be a useful resource when she studied for the exam.

    He went on to tell her about the other things that a ruler might inherit from their predecessor, and Al¨ªs was sure to ask questions when appropriate, despite finding the subject fairly dull. Perhaps it was more important for him to like her for now, and she could grow to like him later. Before too long, Uncle Ilyen came back to their side of the curtain to tell them that this portion of the day was over.

    Although towards the end, Jall¨¦s had gotten far more relaxed than when they had started, he did not hesitate to leave the curtained area to join the rest of the party. Al¨ªs stood to follow, but her uncle stopped her.

    ¡°The king wanted to speak with you.¡±

    ¡°Alone? Is that usual for these sorts of meetings?¡±

    ¡°Not usual,¡± he tilted his head from side to side. ¡°But not terribly unusual.¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± she nodded, taking a deep breath to prepare herself.

    Uncle Ilyen disappeared and the king came to meet her soon after. Al¨ªs bowed, smiling politely, although her insides were quivering.

    ¡°Miss Rinak,¡± he said, his hands clasped behind his back. ¡°Let us be frank with one another. What are your intentions with my godson?¡±

    ¡°Marriage,¡± she replied as coolly as she could. He was so much taller than her, and his face was more somber than it was in any of her dreams.

    ¡°Yes, I know,¡± he nearly huffed. ¡°I mean why have you sought the services of a matchmaker?¡±

    ¡°I beg your pardon,¡± Al¨ªs was taken aback by his direct question.

    ¡°There must be some reason,¡± he went on, speaking in a near whisper, although his words had all the intensity as if he were speaking with his full voice. ¡°As you are quite beautiful and intelligent, why have you been unable to find a match on your own?¡±

    ¡°My lord,¡± she gasped, feeling quite insulted now. Although she had spoken with her aunt that morning about seeking an advantageous match for money, she found it quite rude to be accused of such a thing.

    ¡°Tell me the truth, Miss Rinak - are Madam and Master Gerrin relatives of yours?¡±

    For now the second time that day, she felt frozen. Should she lie? He would certainly learn the truth if she did. But to reveal the truth might reflect badly on not only the family, but the integrity of her aunt¡¯s matchmaking business. And yet, Al¨ªs was not the one who had made the arrangement, she was only a piece on the board. The king had said for both of them to be frank, so she decided that was what she must do.

    ¡°Master Gerrin is my mother¡¯s brother,¡± she said calmly.

    King Gaon let out a frustrated sigh, even pacing a little.

    ¡°You have some nerve, Miss, making a fool of me like this.¡±

    ¡°I beg your pardon, my lord, but I have done no such thing.¡±

    ¡°Haven¡¯t you?¡± he turned on her, looming over her like a dark tree. His eyes seemed to burn with anger, but she was grateful that he had not raised his voice at her. ¡°Have you not lied and tricked your way into this opportunity?¡±

    ¡°Every word I have said has been true.¡±

    ¡°True, perhaps, but carefully selected. Omitting things for your convenience.¡±

    Her heart was pounding now; when she woke that morning, how was she to know that she would be in an argument with the king? She almost wanted to flee and shut herself in her corner bedroom, but she couldn¡¯t bear to think of how embarrassed her aunt and uncle would be. Perhaps this didn¡¯t have to be the end.

    ¡°My side of the match is not the only one that has omitted things,¡± she said, standing as tall as she could.

    ¡°No?¡±

    ¡°For instance, that I am the fifth attempt at a match for Jall¨¦s.¡±

    The king hesitated for just a moment.

    ¡°Your aunt told you that.¡±

    ¡°She did not,¡± Al¨ªs crossed her arms. ¡°I don¡¯t think she even knows. And I do not intend this as an insult, but if after four previous attempts, your godson failed to find a match, then perhaps it would be wise to consider me, even if I happen to be the matchmaker¡¯s niece.¡±

    He grunted a little, but she couldn¡¯t tell if he was agreeing with her or not.

    ¡°Maybe Jall¨¦s isn¡¯t the man I imagined myself paired with,¡± she continued, noting to herself the irony of who she had indeed imagined. ¡°But he is decent and respectable, and I would be willing to accept him, if an offer were made.¡±

    ¡°Before an offer is made,¡± the king stroked his beard, looking like a businessman negotiating. ¡°Perhaps we should reveal any other things that have been omitted so far.¡±

    ¡°That is fair,¡± she nodded, and they both sat. ¡°I will even begin. My family land is a mere ten acres, mostly woodland.¡±

    ¡°Jall¨¦s has very few friends,¡± the king confessed, looking more pitying of his godson than ashamed. ¡°There are family connections, of course, but you would have to build any social relationships on your own.¡±

    ¡°I can manage that.¡±

    ¡°Do you intend to have children?¡±

    ¡°Oh, yes.¡±

    ¡°Jall¨¦s does as well. I¡¯m sure you can understand that after so many failed matches, he was beginning to lose hope of the opportunity to have a family. I imagine he would be the sort of father that raises his children with reason and logic, as any student of the law might. Even if he may be too dull to entertain them.¡±

    ¡°I am a terrible cook.¡±

    The king broke into an amused smile at this confession, even shaking his head a little.

    ¡°You would have staff to cook for you at the manor,¡± he told her. ¡°That is hardly a flaw.¡±

    ¡°Well I find it embarrassing,¡± she couldn¡¯t help smiling herself, looking down. ¡°My sister is a wonderful cook, and a baker. And my mother makes several wonderful dishes, even though she is blind.¡±

    ¡°She is?¡± he asked, his voice suddenly quite soft. ¡°I am sorry to hear that.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t apologize. She hates to be pitied.¡±

    He nodded, understanding, and there was a brief silence.

    ¡°My lord,¡± she sighed. ¡°My family doesn¡¯t have much money. But they have me. I intend to take the civil service exam, and serve however I may, and try to make life better for them. Marrying Jall¨¦s would give me the chance to do that.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± he nodded. ¡°I am inclined to make the offer, if he agrees.¡±

    <hr>

    ¡°Sit here,¡± Al¨ªs patted a stool at the counter as she passed, going behind to finish preparing the pot of spiced red tea.

    Lilia hopped into the seat happily, leaning her elbows on the counter to watch her sister work.

    ¡°Can you make it extra sweet, please?¡±

    ¡°Here.¡± Al¨ªs set a jar of honey near her. ¡°Add as much as you want to your own cup.¡±

    ¡°When we meet with your husband later, will we be going to the royal palace?¡±

    ¡°He isn¡¯t my husband yet,¡± Al¨ªs corrected. ¡°Careful, it¡¯s hot.¡±

    ¡°I know, I just like saying it. But are we?¡±

    ¡°Perhaps. We haven¡¯t decided yet. Ah, my friend Droln is here.¡± She waved to the captain as he entered the tea house with a ring of the chimes over the door.

    ¡°Oh¡­¡± Lilia whispered to her sister as he neared. ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me.¡±

    ¡°Tell you what?¡±

    Lilia did not answer, as Droln was now within earshot.

    ¡°Ayelle, Al¨ªs,¡± he greeted with a friendly smile. ¡°Is this your sister?¡±

    ¡°Yes, this is Lilia. Half pot of your usual?¡±

    ¡°Ah, yes. Pleasure to finally meet you,¡± he bowed.

    ¡°Pleasure,¡± Lilia practically whispered, her cheeks pink. She then quickly ducked her head for a bow, almost forgetting.

    ¡°Water,¡± Al¨ªs announced, prompting Droln to lift the lid of his pot for her to pour the steaming kettle over the blend of dried leaves and spices. ¡°How was your training today?¡±

    ¡°Difficult. But Sir Emyal told me I¡¯ve made ¡®notable improvement¡¯ since last time.¡±

    ¡°Are you a knight?¡± Lilia wondered with a tilt of her head.

    ¡°Ah, not yet. One day. And you?¡± he smiled, causing her to quickly look away and pay sudden attention to the painted design on her teacup.

    ¡°Priestess,¡± she mumbled.

    ¡°She¡¯s still studying,¡± Al¨ªs clarified, shaking her head at her sister¡¯s shyness. ¡°Two more years until she¡¯s eighteen, and then she can take her vows.¡±

    ¡°My father wanted me to be a priest,¡± Droln nodded, pouring himself a cup of the dark brew. ¡°Like him.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know that,¡± Al¨ªs remarked. ¡°Which order?¡±

    ¡°None,¡± he chuckled. ¡°He doesn¡¯t believe in any of the sects.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s unusual. What about you?¡±

    ¡°Well, I went to military academy. Take from that what you will.¡±

    ¡°How old are you?¡± Lilia suddenly asked, leaning her chin on her hand.

    ¡°I¡¯m twenty-three.¡±

    ¡°Are you married?¡±

    ¡°Me? Ah, no.¡± He cast an inquisitive look at Al¨ªs as he took a slow drink of his tea. She rolled her eyes.

    ¡°Heaven and hell, Lil, leave him be.¡±

    This quieted the girl, but she still gazed at the captain with stars in her eyes.

    He avoided looking at her, feeling uncomfortable.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Al¨ªs muttered in Kayuan. ¡°She isn¡¯t usually like this.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t blame her,¡± Droln replied graciously. ¡°I remember being that age; you have so many feelings, you just don¡¯t know what to do with them.¡±

    ¡°She always said she wanted to marry a knight.¡±

    This made Droln laugh, and although Lilia didn¡¯t understand what they were saying, her entire face was now quite pink.

    ¡°Don¡¯t do that!¡± she pleaded with her sister, embarrassed. ¡°It isn¡¯t fair.¡±

    Al¨ªs refilled Lilia¡¯s cup the rest of the way as a sort of apology, changing the subject.

    ¡°I wish you could have met Yan, but he¡¯s helping my uncle with an incoming shipment of tea down at the dock.¡±

    ¡°Tomorrow, perhaps?¡±

    ¡°We go back to Salm¨¹ in the morning,¡± Lilia shook her head, apparently already over her embarrassment.

    ¡°Then I suppose I¡¯ll just have to visit sometime,¡± the captain declared, although he nearly regretted saying so, as Lilia nodded rather enthusiastically at the suggestion. Looking to his friend for help, he found himself stranded as she once again rolled her eyes.

    <hr>

    Now that the betrothal was official, Al¨ªs left the corner room above the tea house behind and moved into a room in the royal palace, in the same wing that Jall¨¦s and his mother had a suite. She was grateful for this time of transition that allowed her to get to know her future husband, as well as other members of court, while still having her own private room; she would even still see her aunt and uncle, as they decided she would continue to help out at the tea house a few days every week. She could hardly sleep the first night she stayed in her new room, but despite that, she woke early as always.

    Lying in her new, enormous bed, she was surprised by the quiet of her surroundings. She could not hear carts and hooves and footsteps on the cobbled streets that she had gotten used to, but there was a chorus of songbirds from the grand garden that heralded the morning. Rising from the great bed, she pulled aside the curtains and opened the geometric latticed shutters to find that the sun was still barely showing on the horizon. The silhouette of the roofs of Aldren beyond the palace wall was like a range of mountains, with domes and towers instead of peaks. She was used to waking at such an hour, both in Salm¨¹ for tending the hens and mule, as well as in the last few months when she would rise to prepare the tea house for the day; she wondered if it was common for the others who resided in the royal palace to do so.

    Opening her wardrobe, she searched through its contents for something to wear but found herself quite frustrated; although she had many new clothes now, she wasn¡¯t sure what would be appropriate to select for the day. Now that she was surrounded by the grandeur of pillared halls decked in colorful tiles in elegant patterns, it felt like she should be wearing her very best gowns and robes, such as the traditional clothes she wore for her matchmaking day. But she would probably be overdressed, and then what would she do the next day? She wished she had paid more attention to what everyone was wearing on the day that Droln showed her the library, but of course she had books on her mind.

    Feeling like she was wasting her own time, she randomly selected a pair of billowy trousers and an embroidered summer tunic and put them on, shaking her head at herself. She never used to care about what she looked like. Quickly dressing, she fastened the long string of beads around her waist, tied her sandals around her ankles, and left her room to explore her wondrous new home.

    She wandered the halls quietly, admiring the colors of the mosaic floors and the elegant leaf patterns carved into the pillars. Hardly anyone seemed to be awake yet, as the only people she encountered were servants hurrying down corridors carrying baskets and tea trays and other things for their masters. There were a few galleries and other open rooms that Al¨ªs was able to pass through, and she wondered if she would ever get used to the splendor of her surroundings. Each chamber was richly decorated with tapestries and statues, and large vases holding exotic flowers were housed in every corner. Deciding that she would like to see the gardens, Al¨ªs searched for a staircase to take her down to the ground level; she eventually found one, which led to the courtyard where the prince had hosted his party the evening before. It was quite a different place now that no one was inside. Before, it had been lively and colorful, full of music and voices, and now only the solitary trickling of the fountain could be heard.

    She soon came to another pillared courtyard, but this one was unadorned, with no hanging vines or urns overflowing with flowers. From a distance she could see a figure moving about inside, and as she neared she discovered that it was a young woman with a sword, practicing a series of turns and slashes. Al¨ªs watched the graceful movements, enjoying the sound of the steel cutting the air. Several moments passed until the young woman turned, seeing Al¨ªs and letting out a surprised cry.

    "Forgive me," Al¨ªs bowed. "I did not mean to startle you."

    "What are you doing here?" The lady came closer, speaking in a low voice and looking around to see if anyone else was near.

    Al¨ªs thought she was one of the most beautiful women she had ever seen. Her complexion was dark and smooth, and her large brown eyes had the loveliest shape. Although she wore a simple tunic and trousers, it seemed clear that the only reason she was dressed so plainly was for the practicality of movement, as even the sashes she wore were made of an intricately patterned material. A hint of gold glinted from her chest and hung from her ears, and her black hair had been fashioned into countless braids and elegantly swept back at the nape of her neck.

    ¡°I¡¯m only looking around,¡± Al¨ªs told her. ¡°I''m sorry for intruding.¡±

    ¡°What is your name?¡±

    ¡°Al¨ªs Rinak.¡±

    ¡°Ah,¡± the young lady nodded knowingly. ¡°From Salm¨¹. I''ve heard about you.¡±

    ¡°I haven¡¯t been here long,¡± Al¨ªs blinked, astonished.

    ¡°Word travels like wind in this city,¡± she shrugged, striding to a rack of swords to put hers away. ¡°Be wary of whom you trust, or any secrets you might have will spread to every corner of the palace in a day, and every corner of the city by the next morning.¡±

    ¡°I don''t have any secrets.¡±

    ¡°Well I do,¡± she said pointedly. ¡°I ask that you tell no one you''ve seen me here today.¡±

    ¡°I don''t even know your name,¡± Al¨ªs shook her head, laughing a little.

    The young woman smiled, finally relaxing a little.

    ¡°Peleanchara Usul,¡± she replied, bowing politely. ¡°Please call me Pel.¡±

    ¡°I will keep your secret, Pel,¡± Al¨ªs promised. ¡°Usul? Sir Emyal Usul?¡±

    ¡°My father," Pel nodded, walking beside her as they left the courtyard.

    ¡°My friend is his student.¡±

    ¡°Ah yes, Captain Droln. He¡¯s talented.¡±

    ¡°Do you live in here in the palace?¡±

    ¡°With my father, yes. Although we live in a wing separate from yours.¡±

    Al¨ªs laughed incredulously at Pel¡¯s extensive knowledge.

    ¡°You seem to know quite a lot about me,¡± Al¨ªs mused. ¡°I thought I was a bit of a nobody in Aldren.¡±

    ¡°Things can change very quickly here. I make it my business to know everyone, even when they are just a nobody. Perhaps tomorrow they will be somebody.¡±

    ¡°May I ask what you have heard about me so far?¡±

    ¡°You''re clever," Pel smirked. "It''s good to know what others know. According to the rumors, you''re betrothed to the king¡¯s godson, whom you met through matchmakers. You¡¯re close friends with Captain Droln, which will likely pay off sooner or later, given his ties to the prince. And you intend to take the civil service exam in the hopes of becoming a member of the king¡¯s council.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m impressed,¡± Al¨ªs crossed her arms. ¡°I have told very few people of my ambition.¡±

    ¡°That was not a rumor, I guessed it. Thank you for confirming.¡±

    ¡°Well, now I would like to know about your ambition.¡±

    ¡°My practice of swordplay? What of it?¡±

    ¡°Why is it a secret?¡±

    Pel walked quietly for a moment, but then she shook her head.

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid it¡¯s too soon in our friendship to reveal that just yet. When I know I can trust you, I will tell you."

    ¡°I understand," Al¨ªs nodded, pleased that Pel had already spoken of friendship between them.

 Chapter 5: News from the North

    One day toward the end of summer, Captain Droln was assigned to one of his usual posts, keeping watch on a busy corner of St. Mykos Square. It was a task he enjoyed, as there was plenty to see from where he was. Seated upon his horse in the shadow of St. Mykos temple, he could keep an eye on the citizens that wandered between market stalls or sat on the edge of the great fountain in the middle of the square.

    Among the bustling noises of cart wheels and the voices of the crowd, he thought he heard his name being called. Looking around, he soon spotted a colorfully dressed group nearing him. It was Prince Tolk¨¦ that had called his name, and he did again, waving. Even among the others who were dressed splendidly, he stood out in a vibrant red tunic and robe; even his two sashes were the color of iron heated at the forge.

    Droln dismounted as they got closer so that he could bow properly; Tolk¨¦ had told him that if they were alone, he would not need to bow, but as they were surrounded by witnesses, he of course showed the respect that was expected of their difference of rank.

    ¡°Captain, you remember my brother¡¯s wife,¡± Tolk¨¦ gestured to the woman beside him. ¡°Princess Yur¨ª. As well as her attendant Lady Andra. And you met Jayor and the others at a dinner.¡±

    ¡°Yes, of course,¡± the captain bowed again to them all, and they returned the greeting with deep nods and a brief chorus of ¡®good afternoon¡¯.

    ¡°Go on without me,¡± the prince addressed his group. ¡°I¡¯ll be in shortly.¡± He waited a moment for them to make their way into the temple before speaking to Droln. ¡°My dear cousin and her company are arriving today from Iran¨¢sa, through the northern city gate. I¡¯d like you to wait there to escort the party to the palace.¡±

    ¡°Forgive me,¡± the captain began. ¡°But I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll be posted here until late tonight.¡±

    ¡°No you¡¯re not.¡± Tolk¨¦ crossed his arms, wearing his familiar, mischievous smirk. ¡°I already spoke to Sir Emyal. Your replacement should relieve you within the hour, I expect. Then you are free to wait at the gate.¡±

    Droln was speechless for a moment; how very like Tolk¨¦ to make changes and arrangements in secret to suit his whims and fancies. It was a fairly harmless thing that he had done, but it made Droln uneasy. He wished the prince had asked before acting, or at least spoken to him first. Too often similar tricks had been played, despite Droln¡¯s insistence that he intended to carry out the duties assigned to him. Yet each time, the prince would find a way to free the captain from his service in order to participate in various amusements. As for this particular occasion, it was at least disguised as a change of duty, if not poorly done so.

    ¡°Very well,¡± he nodded, smiling to push aside his discomfort.

    ¡°Very well indeed! You will get along with my cousin quite easily. You can get to know one another tomorrow evening at the banquet.¡±

    ¡°Of course there is a banquet,¡± Droln teased with a scoff.

    ¡°Yes, of course,¡± Tolk¨¦ grinned. ¡°That is no surprise; the surprise is who is hosting it.¡±

    ¡°It isn¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°Not this time; it¡¯s my brother.¡±

    ¡°The king?¡± Droln blinked. ¡°What for?¡±

    ¡°My best guess is that he¡¯s trying to make a gesture for my cousin. They don¡¯t always see eye to eye. I don¡¯t think they¡¯ve even seen each other since her wedding three years ago. Anyway, we¡¯ll see how things go tomorrow night.¡±

    ¡°It will be a good opportunity for you,¡± Droln suggested. ¡°To show the king that you can be disciplined at a party.¡±

    ¡°Ah, you¡¯re right,¡± Tolk¨¦ mused, as if he had forgotten their plan. He took both of Droln¡¯s hands in his. ¡°I promise to be on my very best behavior. But we will still enjoy ourselves, hm?¡±

    The captain could only nod; they were standing quite close to one another.

    As if suddenly remembering why he was there, Tolk¨¦ glanced up at the high dome of the temple above them.

    ¡°I love St. Mykos,¡± he sighed softly. ¡°I was named here as a baby. But today I am here to pray. And to confess.¡± He looked back at Droln, as if he were going to say something else, but then decided against it. ¡°I¡¯ll see you back at the palace.¡±

    He released the captain¡¯s hands before disappearing into the church, his crimson robes fluttering behind him.

    It wasn¡¯t long before the replacement that Tolk¨¦ had promised arrived to take Droln¡¯s place. He hoped that this other guard did not know the circumstances of the change of post; he imagined that if others were aware of the prince¡¯s favoritism, then his reputation would suffer. As it was, Tolk¨¦ had already given him a few gifts that he was hesitant to use or wear in public.

    First leading his horse to the fountain in the middle of the square for a drink, Droln then mounted and rode through the streets northward. He had not yet been posted at this gate, so at least he would get the chance to see a new part of the city.

    When he reached the gate, he dismounted, leaving his steed at the gatehouse while he climbed the stairs to reach the top of the city wall to see if he might spy the princess and her company on the road from the north. The wind was high, and the southern sun seemed hotter up here, far from the shade of the buildings below. Shielding his eyes from the glare, Droln peered into the distance, unsure of what he was even looking for. As if answering a question that he did not even ask, a caravan caught his eye, marked by banners that even from a distance were identifiable as the green of Valasno. He had seen that color banner countless times when he lived in the holy city of Iran¨¢sa and trained at the military academy there.

    Judging the distance from the caravan to the gate, Droln estimated that they would arrive in less than an hour. He stood for awhile atop the wall, enjoying the breeze that blew his dark curls from his face as he watched the princess¡¯ party inch nearer on the road far below.

    In the stillness, with only the call of birds winging and the snapping of the orange banners, the captain¡¯s mind drifted to thoughts of the prince. He imagined him at that moment, in the dim temple, praying, illuminated by the soft light of candles. Or maybe he was confessing. He wondered what sort of sins he had done; or at least those which he was asking forgiveness for. As if coming out of a trance, he regained control of his thoughts, glancing around as if to make sure no one had overheard his thoughts. His face felt hot, and he descended the sandstone steps to find respite in the shade of the great wall. This wasn¡¯t the first time he had gotten distracted by thoughts of Tolk¨¦; and although he cursed at himself for letting foolish feelings take over his mind, he admitted to himself that there was something thrilling about a heartbeat beyond his control.

    Remounting his horse, he waited patiently by the gate until the caravan bearing apple green banners arrived.

    ¡°Welcome to Aldren,¡± he greeted when the rider wearing the gold medallion of a royal heir approached, bowing to her from atop his steed.

    He did not speak beyond that, as he was surprised by the sight of the princess; he had expected a delicate and lovely girl, dressed in pale silk and pearls, but the woman who rode through the gate was a noble warrior. She wore practical and sturdy clothes for riding that were appropriate for the warm climate of the south; her arms were exposed, revealing well-toned muscles that were the result of years of discipline. If she were standing, she would be taller than most of the men in her company, and her shoulders were broad. Yet she was still beautiful, although not sweet looking. Her nose came to a haughty point, and her face was angular, with prominent cheekbones and a sharp jaw, all beneath a pale complexion and crowned by copper braids. In fact, the captain recognized her from his time in the Holy City; she was the most skilled swordsman he had ever seen.

    ¡°I know you,¡± she seemed to recognize him as well, her green eyes glinting. ¡°You were at the academy in Iran¨¢sa when I trained there; remind me of your name.¡±

    ¡°Droln Erapel, my lady.¡±

    ¡°Droln, of course,¡± she smiled. ¡°Top of your class, I remember. And you have been made captain, I see. Impressive at your age. Well done.¡±

    He bowed with his head in humble thanks.

    ¡°This is my wife, Princess Felana,¡± Princess Leara gestured to the woman beside her, who was in fact delicate and lovely; her black hair was also plaited for travel, framing a soft face with a warm, dusky complexion.

    The other princess nodded politely from atop her steed. At first Droln thought that she looked quite stern, with a grim mouth and stiff, slender shoulders, but then he saw that there was something more to her appearance. Her eyes, which were a deep earthy brown, looked like troubled waters, and her brow bore the many lines and creases of one who holds heavy cares in her heart. The tunic and robe she wore was such a dark shade of blue that it was like the night sky; the hand that held the reins bore a ring of gold that was fashioned in the image of juniper, with fine needles and berries, and Captain Droln realized that Princes Felana was in mourning.

    ¡°Welcome, my lady,¡± he greeted. ¡°My lord Prince Tolk¨¦ asked me to escort you to the royal palace.¡±

    Princess Leara gestured for him to lead the way, and the parade continued through the streets. Many of the citizens bowed as they passed, and some pointed for their friends to see the passing princesses with their banners and magnificent horses. Although he had not been specifically instructed, the captain knew to bring them through the northern palace gate, where it would be easiest for the travelers to house their steeds and unload their luggage. Prince Tolk¨¦ was waiting there, and as soon as she saw him, Leara urged her mare into a trot to reach him faster, dismounting before even coming to a full stop and sweeping him into a tight hug that lifted him off his feet. He had been holding a lantern tied with a white ribbon to welcome them, but it fell to the cobblestones in the vigor of her greeting.

    The rest of the company caught up and began to dismount and unload the carts of their luggage and trunks, and several dogs jumped down to join the bustle as well. Droln made sure to dismount quickly to offer Princess Felana assistance, but she had no trouble getting down on her own and joining her wife in greeting the prince. The three of them kissed one another¡¯s cheeks and laughed and chattered, noting that Tolk¨¦ had grown even taller since the last time they met, but still no taller than Leara, and mentioned all the things they planned to do while the princesses were in town.

    ¡°I nearly don¡¯t mind that your city is hotter than hell,¡± Leara declared. ¡°I¡¯m just so glad to see you.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve missed you terribly,¡± he replied, taking her hand. ¡°Please stay as long as you can this time.¡±

    You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.

    ¡°Until spring, maybe,¡± Felana nodded.

    ¡°I told my father to not expect me home for New Year¡¯s, but we shall see what the captain allows.¡±

    Droln, baffled, at first thought she was speaking about him, until another enormous figure passed him to greet Prince Tolk¨¦ with a bow.

    ¡°Captain Kaf¨¹n, welcome!¡± the prince offered a hand to shake, even bowing a little.

    Droln had also seen Captain Kaf¨¹n di Hayo at the academy, but had kept his distance from the imposing swordsman; he was of similar stature to Princess Leara, and wore a black patch over his left eye. Although he was as distinguished as Sir Emyal was among swordsmen, little was known about his personal life, save for the fact that he had come to the Holy Empire with Leara¡¯s Jasterene mother. Droln recalled hearing gossip that the captain was the princess¡¯ true father, or perhaps her uncle, but seeing them side by side, he could not be sure. They were the only people of Jaster that he had ever seen in person, and it was possible that fair skin and reddish hair were common there.

    ¡°Let us go inside where it¡¯s cool,¡± Tolk¨¦ invited, picking up the fallen lantern.

    ¡°Horses first,¡± Leara corrected, bringing her black mare toward the stables.

    ¡°You must be tired from the road,¡± Captain Droln reached for her reins, but she did not release her hold on them.

    ¡°Not so tired,¡± she replied with a self-sure smile.

    ¡°Leara prefers to handle her own steeds,¡± Tolk¨¦ explained to Droln, and the captain respectfully took a step back.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind, Captain,¡± Princess Felana addressed him. ¡°I myself am travel weary.¡±

    ¡°Gladly,¡± Droln took over for her, and she excused herself to retreat inside the palace. The captain followed the cousins to the stables, remaining quiet so the two could enjoy their reunion undisturbed, but it wasn¡¯t long before Tolk¨¦ included him after all.

    ¡°Droln loves horses almost as much as you do,¡± he told the princess as they removed the bridles.

    ¡°I can tell,¡± she nodded. ¡°He handles them well.¡±

    ¡°I worked as a stable boy and farrier before attending the academy.¡±

    ¡°You never told me that,¡± Tolk¨¦ sounded surprised, taking the saddle from Droln¡¯s arms.

    The captain did not reply to this, only shrugging a little; Tolk¨¦ shook his head and gave him a look that seemed perhaps a little annoyed, but more curious than anything. There was plenty that the prince didn¡¯t know.

    ¡°Such a beautiful horse,¡± Droln changed the subject, admiring the shiny black coat of Princess Leara¡¯s mount.

    ¡°Her name is Del¨ªn,¡± she replied proudly. ¡°She¡¯s a West Plain Coren. One of ten that Felana gave me as a gift when I graduated from the academy.¡±

    ¡°Ten?¡± the captain whispered to himself. He would never get used to the wealth of this life. He did not even own a horse; the mare he used belonged to the royal guard, and he had to pay a monthly fee to ensure no one else would ride her.

    ¡°Your lucky number,¡± Tolk¨¦ laughed, oblivious of his companion¡¯s shock. ¡°What a thoughtful wife you have, cousin.¡±

    ¡°If you have no further need of me, my lady,¡± Captain Kaf¨¹n addressed the princess once his own steed was housed in a stall. ¡°I have letters for the king I was asked to personally deliver.¡±

    ¡°Yes, of course,¡± she allowed. ¡°But please rest when you are finished.¡±

    <hr>

    After parting ways with the princess, Captain Kaf¨¹n made his way inside the royal palace, finding the king¡¯s study. The door was closed, and a servant standing outside informed him that the king was in a meeting, so he waited.

    It wasn¡¯t long before he was approached by a familiar figure.

    ¡°Captain Kaf¨¹n di Hayo,¡± Sir Emyal Usul greeted, extending a hand in welcome.

    ¡°Sir Emyal,¡± he replied, clasping his arm amicably. They did not exchange smiles or or sentimental well wishes, but they had known one another so long that the gladness to see one another was silently understood.

    ¡°You¡¯re looking quite old,¡± the knight smirked. His own braided hair had begun to grey as well, and there were new lines on his dark face that had not been at their last meeting.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Captain Kaf¨¹n agreed simply. His once fiery beard had paled to a nearly blonde color, with only a hint of the gingery warmth of his youth.

    ¡°I am off duty; join me for a drink like old times.¡±

    ¡°Off duty,¡± Kaf¨¹n grunted. ¡°You are head of the knights of the king¡¯s order. That duty never ends.¡±

    ¡°My men are not so incompetent that they depend on me at every moment. Come.¡±

    ¡°I must give these letters to my lord King Gaon,¡± the captain protested.

    ¡°They can wait,¡± Sir Emyal chuckled. ¡°His meetings with the city magistrate are never brief; her mouth flaps like a fish in a basket.¡±

    At this comment, Kaf¨¹n let out a short sigh, nodding at last. Pleased, Sir Emyal patted him on the back, leading him through the halls of the palace. As they walked, all those they encountered quickly moved out of their way; some knew them and moved out of respect, and others were simply intimidated by their enormous height and the authority in their strides. When they passed the practicing courtyard, Captain Kaf¨¹n cast a judging eye into it, looking to where some of the knights and others hoping to one day receive that title were exercising their swordplay skills with one another.

    ¡°Newly recruited?¡± he asked, although he did not require an answer, as he continued speaking. ¡°They¡¯re all so young. And tiny. The captain that welcomed us at the gate looked like a boy.¡±

    ¡°Some have promising potential,¡± Sir Emyal replied coolly, not allowing himself to take offense at the criticism.

    ¡°I doubt it. Soldiers aren''t what they used to be.¡±

    Sir Emyal welcomed Captain Kaf¨¹n into his study, pouring him a cup of ferasa and pulling one chair toward another so they could talk near the window.

    ¡°Perhaps,¡± the knight mused as he sat. ¡°The legacy of a knight has diminished.¡±

    ¡°Or perhaps,¡± Kaf¨¹n suggested. ¡°You are not hard enough on them.¡±

    Although his words were of criticism, Sir Emyal only laughed. After decades of rivalry between the two, comparing scars and students, any insults they exchanged were either accepted or ignored.

    ¡°It isn¡¯t fair,¡± Sir Emyal joked. ¡°I have dozens of students, and you just the one.¡±

    ¡°Princess Leara is not my only student,¡± the captain corrected him, sipping his wine.

    ¡°No?¡±

    ¡°My lord Prince Tol-¡±

    ¡°Tolk¨¦?¡± the knight scoffed. ¡°He hardly practices these days. Whenever you aren¡¯t here, he becomes rather lazy.¡±

    ¡°I knew that would happen,¡± Kaf¨¹n chuckled humorlessly, drinking again. ¡°He has some natural talent, but lacks ambition. Unless he changes his ways, his abilities are wasted. If only the talent had been gifted to one who would use it.¡±

    When he finished speaking, he shook his head and gazed out the window to the growing twilit shadows of the trees in the garden below. Sir Emyal stroked the tiny black curls of his beard, watching him intently; perhaps once again wondering how Kaf¨¹n had injured his left eye. Although they had known one another for nearly thirty years, and had shared countless stories of battles, the one wound that remained secret was the one hidden beneath the black patch. He had known better than to ask. They sat in silence for a time before the knight spoke at last.

    ¡°Is it true that spies from Aris have been discovered in the royal courts of the north?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Kaf¨¹n replied, staring ahead. ¡°In Yannua, anyway. But not in Iran¨¢sa yet. It will likely be quite awhile before anyone dare disturb the peace of the Holy City.¡±

    ¡°You''re not worried then.¡±

    Captain Kaf¨¹n shook his head.

    ¡°It¡¯s only a matter of time, Kaf¨¹n,¡± Sir Emyal warned. ¡°First there will be spies, but as soon as they find a reason to declare war on the Holy Empire, they will.¡±

    ¡°I know. But still I am not worried. She¡¯ll be ready.¡±

    Sir Emyal raised an eyebrow.

    ¡°You¡¯ve been training Leara with this in mind?¡±

    ¡°Among other things,¡± Captain Kaf¨¹n set his now empty cup upon the windowsill.

    Before the knight could reply, one of his officers entered hastily.

    ¡°Sir,¡± he began, glancing nervously at the enormous,unfamiliar captain sitting at the window.

    Sir Emyal turned, ready to listen, ignoring Kaf¨¹n who was smirking behind him; he delighted in the fear of others and reveled in his reputation of intimidation.

    ¡°What is it?¡± Sir Emyal prodded.

    ¡°There was a raid of a sorcerer¡¯s workshop,¡± the nervous soldier reported. ¡°We brought him in for questioning.¡±

    ¡°Illegal magic?¡± the knight clarified, but the officer only shrugged. ¡°I¡¯ll be there shortly,¡± Sir Emyal sent the soldier on his way, setting his cup of ferasa on his desk and removing his outer robe, casting it upon his chair and opening the wardrobe in which his armor was housed.

    ¡°Practicing magic is not against the law,¡± Kaf¨¹n muttered, leaning back in his chair with a wooden creak. ¡°How can you call it illegal?¡±

    ¡°The king is worried about Arisene spies. We know that they practice magic, so it is where we are starting.¡±

    ¡°What if they are citizens?¡±

    ¡°We let them go, of course.¡± He began removing the steel pieces from the wardrobe and donning them one by one.

    ¡°But still it is not illegal.¡±

    ¡°Practicing magic is legal,¡± the knight agreed. ¡°But selling it requires a permit.¡±

    ¡°And you are interrogating them yourself?¡± Kaf¨¹n smirked. ¡°I thought your men were not incompetent.¡±

    ¡°All to serve my lord and king,¡± he replied with an amused tilt of his head, tightening the buckles on his armguard.

    Kaf¨¹n chuckled stood to help tie a strap on Emyal¡¯s shoulder before hitting him fondly on the back and exiting the room. ¡°Don''t do anything I wouldn''t,¡± he called as he left.

    <hr>

    Later that afternoon, after the newly arrived party had gotten a chance to rest from the road, they gathered for tea in the king¡¯s private rooms to exchange news. Tolk¨¦ had not been officially invited by his brother, but he followed Leara and Felana as they went anyway; he did not know how interesting or dull the discussion would be, but he did not want to be excluded from a family gathering, and it wouldn¡¯t hurt to learn of what had been happening in the north.

    ¡°I received the letters from your father,¡± Gaon told Leara as they entered the parlor. ¡°As well as word from his Imperial Holiness. I will have to look at them more closely later, but from what I can tell, things in Valasno are going well.¡±

    ¡°Well enough,¡± the Valasni princess agreed as they sat around the tea table. ¡°Either well or unremarkable. The situation at the Arisene border remains unchanged.¡±

    ¡°Still no peace?¡± Tolk¨¦ could not help speaking up. Gaon looked at him with a silent blink, as if to ask what his interest in the topic might be. ¡°Captain Droln told me that he fought at the border,¡± the prince added, wondering if he should have kept quiet.

    ¡°Did he?¡± Leara seemed a little surprised. ¡°He does not strike me as one who has seen war so closely.¡±

    ¡°He doesn¡¯t like to talk about it.¡± The prince dutifully began to pour the greenish-gold tea for each of them, as he was the youngest present.

    ¡°And what of news from Yannua?¡± the king changed the subject, looking to Princess Felana now.

    ¡°News from Yannua is dark indeed,¡± Felana replied gravely. ¡°Death and death.¡±

    The king¡¯s wife, Princess Yur¨ª, placed a sympathetic hand on Felana¡¯s arm at this declaration. Both she and her attendant Lady Andra were also dressed in shades of dark blue to express condolences for the Yannuan princess¡¯ mourning.

    ¡°First,¡± Felana began after a sip of the steaming brew. ¡°In early spring, a ship of the royal fleet sank just off the coast; two of my cousin¡¯s daughters drowned. Not a month later, my great uncle¡¯s daughter was injured in a horse racing accident.¡±

    ¡°It was no accident,¡± Leara muttered into her cup, but it was heard by all.

    As intrigued as King Gaon seemed to be by this claim, as indicated by a curious dart of his eyes toward his cousin, he maintained his attention on Felana.

    ¡°Your great uncle, the king?¡± he confirmed. ¡°His daughter, the heir to the throne?¡±

    The Yannuan princess nodded.

    ¡°She will recover,¡± she said, her dark eyes lighting a bit with encouragement, but then her face fell again. ¡°But just before we left Iran¨¢sa, word came that my aunt became ill and died shortly after.¡±

    Another sympathetic sigh came from Princess Yur¨ª, who now kindly took Felana¡¯s hand in both hers.

    ¡°Your family has endured many losses in so short a time,¡± Gaon sighed, shaking his head. ¡°I am terribly sorry for such misfortunes.¡±

    ¡°Misfortunes?¡± Princess Leara repeated, scowling as she set her now empty cup on the table loudly. ¡°Leave fortune and misfortune be! Orshin-ki had no hand in these fates; these were murders. Even the illness was the work of poison. Do you not see? They are removing all natural heirs!¡±

    Tolk¨¦, who had immediately moved poured another cup of tea for the princess, now looked up in alarm.

    ¡°What will happen if there is no natural heir?¡± his voice was high with worry. ¡°Will they be forced to declare an unrelated heir?¡±

    ¡°There is always a natural heir,¡± Gaon reassured his brother, although he sounded distracted. ¡°Even if they are a distant branch of the tree, one can always be found.¡±

    The young prince seemed comforted by this, although he now turned to Felana, taking her other hand sincerely.

    ¡°Are you in danger?¡± he asked, although it was nearly a whisper.

    Princess Felana opened her mouth to answer, but saw that her wife was watching her carefully from across the table. She nodded just a little.

    ¡°Leara thinks that I am.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps you are,¡± Princess Yur¨ª cautioned. ¡°If spies and assassins are at work in Yannua, who is to say they have not made plans in the rest of our courts?¡±

    ¡°Precisely,¡± Lady Andra agreed. ¡°Keeping far from the royal island does not guarantee the safety of those in line.¡±

    ¡°I am hardly in line for the Yannuan throne,¡± Felana disagreed.

    ¡°You weren¡¯t,¡± Leara countered. ¡°Until these recent deaths. Now you¡¯re that much closer.¡±

    ¡°Why are they doing this?¡± Tolk¨¦ asked, looking at each of them as if they knew.

    ¡°Who can say for sure?¡± Felana sighed, her usually warm brown skin paler than usual; there were dark circles under her eyes and she had a tired, distant look to her. No one seemed to have anything further to add, either of speculation or of denial, merely reflecting on all that had happened.

    ¡°Never mind, Kay,¡± Princess Leara suddenly ended the dreary discussion, reaching across the tea table to pat Tolk¨¦¡¯s arm reassuringly. ¡°Do not trouble yourself with far-off dangers.¡±

    The prince glanced at the mourning princess beside him, receiving a small but encouraging smile.

    ¡°You and I are both safe,¡± Felana promised. ¡°We each have brave and skillful soldiers by our sides, hm?¡±

    Tolk¨¦ followed her gaze back across the table to her wife, who gave an affectionate salute in return. Perhaps Captain Droln would be even more valuable than he had thought.

 Chapter 6: The Banquet

    The first day of meeting had been for important news, but the second day that Prince Tolk¨¦ spent with his cousin and her wife was for the exchange of social news, which of course he greatly preferred. Over afternoon tea, they exchanged gossip from not only their respective courts, but also word from the queen of Tarraven, the third cousin in their set who was absent. They did not see her quite as often, as she was busy with not only state duties, but also young twin sons that made travel difficult. Because of the great distance, they had developed a system of sending letters among the three of them so that they were always in contact without leaving anyone out, but now that two of the three were together, things were now simpler. As Leara and Tolk¨¦ spoke in eager, hushed voices, sharing word on engagements, fallings out, and other goings on among their mutual acquaintances, Felana took notes to be properly written in a letter later on. She herself was not invested in the gossip, but she obliged being their secretary for such conversations anyway as a favor for the trio of cousins.

    Once their meeting had concluded, and the appetite for tea and rumors had been satisfied, Tolk¨¦ excused himself to prepare for that evening¡¯s banquet. After an indulgent hour in the bath house he shut himself in his private rooms to get dressed. As it was a banquet hosted by the king, he of course would be expected to dress in the color of the kingdom¡¯s banner. That only narrowed his choices slightly, as he had many tunics, robes, sashes, and trousers in different shades of orange. As it was a more formal gathering, he chose a full length evening robe the color of persimmons with trailing sleeves and gold thread embroidery.

    In the midst of a long debate with himself on which jewelry to pair together, there was a knock at the door. He called out to allow entry, and a messenger opened the door and bowed.

    ¡°Good evening, my lord. I was asked to alert you when the first guests had started gathering in the banquet hall.¡±

    ¡°Oh,¡± Tolk¨¦ was surprised. He had not requested the reminder, but it was welcome, as he had indeed lost track of time. He thanked the messenger, who went on her way.

    Finally making a decision, he selected small hoops of turquoise, putting them in his ears as he hurried through the halls to the great hall.

    The banquet hall had been prepared beautifully for the occasion, with cedar boughs bound into long ropes spanning the high rafters, and large bouquets of sunflowers that graced the corners and pillars of the hall. A great fire burned in the hearth, upon which was roasting several goats, carefully seasoned with many spices from all corners of the Holy Empire.

    The first person Prince Tolk¨¦ noticed was Droln, who stood near the door as if waiting for him.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you could look so nice,¡± Tolk¨¦ teased him. ¡°I only ever see you in armor or plain clothes for practice.¡±

    The captain smiled proudly and twirled once slowly to show all sides.

    ¡°Oh no,¡± Tolk¨¦ sighed suddenly, touching the sleeve of Droln¡¯s robe. ¡°You should have worn blue.¡±

    ¡°Red doesn¡¯t suit me?¡± Droln chuckled.

    ¡°At official banquets, it¡¯s traditional to wear your kingdom¡¯s color.¡±

    Droln¡¯s eyes grew wide and he looked around the room anxiously. Indeed, the room was full of oranges, greens, blues, and even a few shades of purple as well.

    ¡°Heaven help me,¡± he muttered, embarrassed. ¡°I didn¡¯t know; this is my first royal banquet.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s my fault,¡± Tolk¨¦ shook his head. ¡°I should have told you.¡±

    ¡°Should I change?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s too late for that,¡± the prince sighed. ¡°As it is, I hardly got ready in time.¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    ¡°You sent the messenger,¡± he realized, laughing incredulously.

    ¡°I did. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll forgive me for pointing out your habit of lateness. I thought it might be wise to prevent it tonight, with my lord King Gaon¡¯s eyes upon you.¡±

    At the mention of his brother, Tolk¨¦ looked for him among the attendees. He found him easily, as King Gaon stood in the middle of the arrangement of tables, his wife on his arm. The room quieted.

    ¡°Good evening, friends,¡± he spoke loudly enough for all to hear, his voice echoing against the high vaulted ceiling. ¡°There are two joyous causes for celebration tonight. First, to welcome my esteemed cousin to Aldren, Princess Leara and her wife Princess Felana.¡± He gestured toward them, and Droln could see that of course Leara was dressed in a gown of elegant forest green, while her wife wore a combination of both green and blue. The guests applauded and raised their glasses toward the princesses in welcome. ¡°Secondly,¡± the king continued, a rare smile on his face. ¡°I am very pleased to announce that my dear wife is with child. We anticipate the birth will be just after the new year.¡±

    A louder wave of applause broke out, among pleased and surprised gasps.

    Droln glanced at Tolk¨¦, who could not look more shocked. He managed to close his gaping mouth and speak to Droln, although his eyes were on his brother.

    ¡°Meet me in my room.¡± His face shifted from surprise to joy as he hurried off to embrace his sister-in-law in congratulations.

    <hr>

    Droln waited in the prince¡¯s private chambers alone, anxiously standing near the open terrace doors, looking out into the starlit garden below and musing about the news. If the king at last had a child, things would be very different for Tolk¨¦. Droln could not be sure how the prince would feel about this new development; perhaps he would be glad that the burden of a gold medallion would pass to another, and yet over the months of their time together, there always seemed to be a hint of ambition lingering under the surface. It was possible that losing his title, even without shame, would cause Tolk¨¦ distress.

    It wasn¡¯t too long before the door opened and the prince himself entered.

    ¡°Can you believe it?¡± he exclaimed, looking both excited and shaken by the announcement. There was an odd edge to his voice that was difficult to read.

    Droln neared him, unsure how to approach him.

    ¡°Are you pleased?¡±

    ¡°Of course I¡¯m pleased,¡± Tolk¨¦ began, striding to a wardrobe and opening the doors to frantically sort through the contents. ¡°Gaon and Yur¨ª have been married twelve years now. There have been many losses.¡± He began to pull blue items out, draping them over his shoulder as he spoke. ¡°Each time, they made the announcement later and later. There were probably some that even I never knew about; you can never be certain how things will turn out. But if she¡¯s expecting in the new year then she must be fairly far along. Yes, Droln, I¡¯m quite pleased.¡±

    Droln was perplexed by the search through the clothing at first, until he realized that Tolk¨¦ doing so to help Droln change into the appropriate color for the banquet. The captain came closer to help hold the growing pile of sky and sea colored garments.

    ¡°Are you¡­ relieved? For yourself, I mean.¡±

    The prince paused his endeavor and looked at him directly. He said nothing for a moment, but then nodded, taking the clothes back into his own arms. He now went to the enormous bed, laying them out to see them. It looked like complete chaos to Droln, but Tolk¨¦ acted like he knew what he was doing. Every once in awhile, he¡¯d hold a piece up against the captain and then toss it aside.

    ¡°Do you want my opinion?¡± Droln wondered tentatively.

    ¡°I know what I¡¯m looking for, we¡¯re just different sizes,¡± Tolk¨¦ muttered as he sorted.

    ¡°Ah no,¡± he said slowly. ¡°My opinion on the news.¡±

    ¡°I always want your opinion, Droln, you know that.¡±

    ¡°I think you should keep working. Keep studying. In the last few months, you¡¯ve already broken some bad habits and picked up better ones. The pregnancy is good news, but as you¡¯ve told me¡­ you just don¡¯t know what will happen. You¡¯re still the heir. And, heaven willing, a healthy child is born and you surrender your gold medallion. And then you will only have improved. Maybe you can serve on the king¡¯s council.¡±

    ¡°I will think about what you¡¯ve said,¡± Tolk¨¦ sighed, at last having chosen something for Droln to wear. ¡°But I don¡¯t want to talk about it anymore. Here.¡±

    He held out a tunic and robe that were different shades but similarly hued; they would nicely contrast the red and black sashes that Droln was already wearing. Tolk¨¦ had perfect taste, as always. Droln decided that they knew one another well enough now that he could untie his sashes in front of him, so he did, laying them aside. Removing the red garment, he shook his head at his mistake again.

    ¡°I felt so foolish,¡± he sighed, tossing it onto the bed with the rest of the pieces. It looked like a blood stain compared to the cool tones of the other tunics and robes. ¡°I might as well have been on fire.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure hardly anyone noticed,¡± Tolk¨¦ reassured him, putting a comforting hand on his shoulder. ¡°And I promise to look after you better.¡±

    Droln nodded, but he couldn¡¯t think of a response, as he felt exposed in front of him without a shirt. Whether Tolk¨¦ noticed his discomfort or not, he removed his hand and stepped back so Droln would have room to put on the new, blue tunic, then readied the outer robe for him so he could find where to put his arms easily. When Droln began to place the first sash around his middle, he realized that the wide sleeves of the fairly traditional southern robe made it difficult to hold it in place while tying the second sash. Tolk¨¦ watched him struggle for a moment, getting tangled in the silk layers before scoffing and stepping in.

    You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.

    ¡°You need to learn how to ask for help,¡± he scolded gently, taking the long, narrow sash from him and wrapping it around him twice.

    ¡°Perhaps,¡± Droln mumbled, his face hot. He was glad that his dark skin did not easily betray him with a blush, but he kept his eyes lowered, as if the prince would be able to guess his thoughts if he looked at him directly.

    Holding the ends of the sash to see if they were even and adjusting accordingly, Tolk¨¦ began to tie a decorative knot, humming as he did.

    ¡°Ah, that looks complicated,¡± Droln protested. ¡°I don¡¯t know if I¡¯ll be able to undo it tonight.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll help you,¡± Tolk¨¦ replied lightly. ¡°We should get back while there¡¯s still food. If I don¡¯t eat, I¡¯ll get too drunk.¡±

    Without waiting for a reply, the prince turned and headed for the door. Taking a few deep breaths, Droln hurried to catch up, following him back to the banquet hall.

    Each table was laden with heaping platters of the honored guests¡¯ favorite foods; beautiful rice buns were served, temptingly arranged in baskets, their egg-brushed tops shining in the firelight. White fish lay upon thinly sliced lemons, and a bowl of sweet summer squash stew sat at each place of every table. Many of the guests had already finished the course, and were up and about, socializing in clusters throughout the hall.

    Droln and Tolk¨¦ took their seats together and began to eat; fortunately the stew was still warm. They didn¡¯t speak as they ate, but they did pass dishes for one another to try; Droln knew that Tolk¨¦ preferred the dark red sauce with goat, and Tolk¨¦ was careful to only give him dishes that had no meat in them.

    ¡°I should speak to my brother,¡± the prince said when he had finished, rising from his seat. ¡°You¡¯re alright alone?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I know enough faces here,¡± he nodded as noticed Al¨ªs Rinak with her husband-to-be across the room, both dressed in a matching bronze-orange shade. Before he had a chance to get up to greet her, he was joined by Lady Andra, Princess Yur¨ª¡¯s attendant.

    ¡°Good evening, Captain,¡± she sat in Tolk¨¦¡¯s now empty seat.

    ¡°Lady Andra,¡± he turned toward her. ¡°Such wonderful news for the princess. Please give her my best wishes.¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± she nodded, but then immediately changed the subject. ¡°I was watching you just now. You seem nervous.¡±

    ¡°Do I?¡±

    ¡°He makes you nervous?¡± she asked slyly, nodding her head toward the prince.

    Droln closed his mouth tightly, and looked down, fiddling with the intricate knot that Tolk¨¦ had tied for him.

    ¡°How wonderful,¡± Lady Andra laughed, but then softened her voice. ¡°I¡¯m not teasing you. You are so lucky. Being in love is the greatest thing in the world.¡±

    ¡°Love?¡± Droln looked up suddenly. ¡°I¡¯m not-¡±

    ¡°Do you want to be?¡±

    He didn¡¯t answer, his throat feeling suddenly quite dry. He took a drink from his water, but Lady Andra held a cup of wine before him. He took it hesitantly.

    ¡°Drink this instead. It will help a lot more.¡± With that, she rose from her seat and left him.

    Droln sat alone for a moment, wondering if a drink would actually ease his nerves; but he decided against it. It was not worth breaking a long-kept habit over. Instead, he decided he would rather seek the companionship of a dear friend. Setting the untouched cup on the table, he approached Al¨ªs, who was alone now.

    ¡°Good evening,¡± he greeted with a bow and a smile. ¡°You look so lovely tonight.¡±

    ¡°I hope so,¡± she laughed, touching her elaborate hairstyle adorned with white jade combs. ¡°It took ages to get ready. You look very nice too. The blue is an improvement.¡±

    ¡°Ah, you saw my mistake?¡± he leaned his cheek against his hand in embarrassment. ¡°No one else is wearing red.¡±

    ¡°Well no one here is from Aris,¡± Al¨ªs teased, but then put on a more comforting tone. ¡°I¡¯m sure hardly anyone noticed. I only saw you because I was seeking you out.¡±

    ¡°I wish I had known better. This is my first royal banquet.¡±

    ¡°And mine,¡± she smiled, taking his arm and looking around at the beautifully decorated hall, filled with beautifully decorated people. ¡°Isn¡¯t it all wonderful? Look how happy the king is; I¡¯ve never seen him smile like that. And the food so far has been heavenly, but I am most looking forward to dancing. I imagine you are as well.¡± She nudged him as she spoke, nodding her head toward where Prince Tolk¨¦ was standing with a group of friends.

    Droln said nothing, causing Al¨ªs to look at him with concern.

    ¡°What is it? Don¡¯t you want to dance with him?¡±

    ¡°Of course I do,¡± he replied, his eyes still on the prince across the hall. ¡°There¡¯s just more people here than I imagined. And I¡¯m not a very good dancer.¡±

    ¡°Is that all?¡± she laughed. ¡°Come along.¡± Her arm still linked with his, she led him out of the banquet hall into the garden, where it was dark and cool. ¡°I don¡¯t know why you didn¡¯t ask for my help,¡± she scolded. ¡°Is it pride? Ah, never mind. Hold my hands.¡±

    He obeyed, and she began to count, leading him in the steps of a popular dance. He knew how the dance went, of course, but he was stiff and his feet shuffled as he struggled to keep up with her. Once they completed one round of the first part she stopped, looking him up and down.

    ¡°I thought you were being modest,¡± she mused. ¡°You aren¡¯t a good dancer. I can tell you know the steps, but you don¡¯t know what to do with your body. Isn¡¯t it like swordplay?¡±

    ¡°Is it?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Al¨ªs shook her head with a smile. ¡°I don¡¯t know anything about swordplay. Maybe I should find Pel.¡±

    ¡°Pel Usul?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s a wonderful dancer,¡± she explained quickly. ¡°And knows how to teach it.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know her well,¡± Droln hesitated.

    ¡°Never mind,¡± Al¨ªs changed her mind. ¡°We can keep this between us. We¡¯ll do it again, but relax your shoulders. And try to stay on your toes. If you can, don¡¯t look down so much.¡±

    ¡°Where do I look?¡±

    ¡°At me,¡± she stuck her tongue out at him and he laughed, doing his best to loosen the tension he was feeling. ¡°This is supposed to be fun,¡± she reminded him.

    They tried again, and although Droln stepped on Al¨ªs¡¯ toes more than once, they finished the steps on rhythm.

    ¡°Well it was an improvement,¡± she tried to encourage, but she was still laughing at his awkward stance. ¡°Don¡¯t they have dancing in Yannua?¡±

    ¡°I cannot speak for all of Yannua and her many islands,¡± Droln chuckled. ¡°But in my home, we prefer singing.¡±

    ¡°You sing?¡± she repeated with delight. ¡°Come now, I must hear you.¡±

    Before he could protest or oblige, they were joined by a third.

    ¡°Good evening, my lord,¡± Al¨ªs bowed when she recognized the prince.

    ¡°Miss Rinak,¡± he greeted, seeming a little surprised that she was there. ¡°Droln, I thought I would find you out here alone.¡±

    ¡°I will gladly make it so,¡± Al¨ªs said quickly, bowing once more before heading back toward the banquet hall, casting an encouraging look at her friend before disappearing.

    ¡°What were you two doing?¡± Tolk¨¦ asked, sounding both curious and cautious.

    ¡°I¡¯d rather not say,¡± Droln replied, embarrassed.

    ¡°I see.¡±

    There was an uncomfortable silence between them, causing the prince to revert to polite small talk.

    ¡°She¡¯s getting married soon, isn¡¯t she?¡±

    ¡°Yes. Mid autumn.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t sound happy about it,¡± Tolk¨¦ crossed his arms.

    Droln was caught off guard; Tolk¨¦ seemed colder than he ever had been towards him. He considered concealing how he felt about Al¨ªs¡¯ husband-to-be Jall¨¦s, as he and the prince were practically family, but he decided that Tolk¨¦ would know he was lying.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s a good match,¡± he confessed.

    ¡°How so?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Droln started to fidget with the knot of his sashes. ¡°I don¡¯t really know him, but I don¡¯t like him for her.¡±

    ¡°So you¡¯d rather she not marry?¡±

    ¡°It isn¡¯t my decision.¡±

    ¡°You wish it were.¡± There was an accusatory edge to Tolk¨¦¡¯s voice, but behind it was the threat of tears, as if the sky were filling with great clouds.

    ¡°I want her to be happy,¡± Droln defended. ¡°She¡¯s very dear to me.¡±

    ¡°I can see that,¡± the prince scoffed.

    The captain was quiet for a moment.

    ¡°You¡¯re drunk,¡± he said softly.

    ¡°I¡¯m not,¡± he scowled. ¡°You told me not to drink, remember? Because of that stupid plan. Well, forget the plan. It clearly did not turn out the way we intended.¡±

    ¡°Because of the baby?¡± Droln blinked. ¡°I told you, you should still study.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not talking about that.¡± His arms still crossed, he looked up at the night sky, his irritation melting into a forlorn gaze heavenward.

    ¡°What did you intend?¡±

    ¡°Friendship,¡± the prince sighed wearily, but did not continue.

    ¡°But?¡± the captain prompted.

    ¡°Don¡¯t make me say it,¡± Tolk¨¦ looked at him. ¡°If Al¨ªs is dear to you, then we will leave it at that, and¡­ we shall remain friends.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be friends,¡± Droln said before he could stop himself, but then he found that he had talked himself into a corner, and could not think of the right words to go on. Instead, he reached for the prince¡¯s hand, his heartbeat quickening when Tolk¨¦¡¯s slender fingers immediately returned the tentative grasp, clasping them together more surely.

    Once Droln had gotten used to the feeling of their hands touching, and it seemed that their hearts were beating in rhythm, he lifted his face to look at the prince. Tolk¨¦ had been gazing at him directly the whole time, a soft look in his dark eyes.

    Droln quickly averted his eyes, taking a breath on purpose, and squeezing Tolk¨¦¡¯s hand on accident.

    ¡°What is it?¡± Tolk¨¦ wondered in a near whisper. ¡°Why can¡¯t you look at me?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s like looking at the sun.¡±

    ¡°Well if I¡¯m the sun then you¡¯re one of the moons,¡± he teased back.

    ¡°What can that mean?¡± Droln managed to look at him, trying to relax. Perhaps he should have had that wine after all.

    ¡°Oh, many things,¡± Tolk¨¦ began to stroll along the garden path, and Droln had no choice but to come along, as their hands were still joined. ¡°First, that I seem to think of you at night.¡± He gave Droln a sideways look, but mercifully didn¡¯t leave too much silence afterwards. ¡°Second must be that you are predictable, like the moons¡¯ phases. For better or worse, I have had little difficulty understanding how you will act; or react for that matter. And yet,¡± he paused, or perhaps hesitated. ¡°There is a side of you, like the moons, that I fear I will never see.¡±

    There was another long silence between them. Droln wished to speak, but he had no plan of what to say, and Tolk¨¦ seemed to be giving him as much time as he needed to figure it out. They were now quite far from the palace, beyond where the music could reach; their only accompaniment was the constant chirping of the crickets.

    ¡°I do not wish to hide any side of me,¡± Droln said at last. ¡°Not from you.¡±

    ¡°I hardly know anything about you, Droln,¡± the prince sighed wistfully. ¡°Only that which I have observed for myself. Why don¡¯t you tell me anything?¡±

    He looked down in shame.

    ¡°Knights are supposed to be brave,¡± Tolk¨¦ chuckled, stooping to look him in the eyes.

    ¡°Don¡¯t make me laugh,¡± he protested, although he couldn¡¯t prevent a smile.

    ¡°I must! Your laugh is precious to me. Now tell me something. Anything you wish.¡±

    ¡°Well,¡± Droln looked up at the sky. ¡°You are not the first to compare me to a moon.¡±

    ¡°No?¡±

    ¡°When I was a child, my family often called me Diren.¡±

    The prince also looked to the smaller of the two moons, who bore the same name.

    ¡°Diren,¡± he repeated. ¡°May I call you that?¡±

    ¡°No,¡± Droln replied quickly. ¡°Not anymore.¡±

    Tolk¨¦ now looked to the other, larger moon, then to Droln, who stood quietly, his jaw clenched.

    ¡°If you went by Diren,¡± the prince wondered softly. ¡°Was there also a Sere? A twin?¡±

    ¡°We were both ten years old,¡± he murmured. ¡°And now I have grown, but she will be ten forever.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry,¡± he shook his head. ¡°I know nothing I can say can help you heal."

    ¡°I just wanted you to know,¡± Droln said with finality. ¡°And now you do.¡±

    By now they had changed course to near the palace once again, but Tolk¨¦ couldn¡¯t tell if Droln wished to rejoin the banquet or not.

    ¡°If you would dance with me,¡± he said. ¡°It would bring me great joy.¡±

    ¡°Ah,¡± Droln sighed, looking quite sheepish now. ¡°I suppose I might as well tell you; I cannot dance. That¡¯s what Al¨ªs was trying to help me with.¡±

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me before?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to look foolish.¡±

    ¡°Never,¡± Tolk¨¦ shook his head. ¡°I admire you too much.¡±

    Droln was so embarrassed that had to shut his eyes for a moment, but he couldn¡¯t help smiling, and the prince laughed.

    ¡°When I first saw you,¡± Tolk¨¦ began, speaking softly. ¡°I thought you were all steel. Discipline and honor. Responsibility. I didn¡¯t realize that your heart was so¡­¡± he trailed off. When Droln looked him in the eyes he saw that Tolk¨¦ was near tears. ¡°I don¡¯t know what I want to say.¡±

    ¡°I do,¡± Droln assured him, and before he could change his mind, he reached up and kissed the prince.