Chapter fifteen (Mael)

I do not recall how long I stood at the threshold of my chamber watching her hurry away. My mind was a frenzy of emotions and thoughts. I might have gone mad from it but her image kept me sane and the startling memory of her acceptance. Her kindness defeated me… utterly. I felt quite like the Lion who had the thorn pulled from his paw, yes, quite like that. She should have been afraid, but she wasn’t, she should have run, but she didn’t… She touched me, marveled at what many thought a hideous abomination of Heaven and Hell. She had shown mercy, even after what I had done. And somehow part of me was not surprised, the beast, yes but the man no. I knew, I had always known but… God to have seen it in her eyes… Not a one word I had spoken to her tonight was a lie and in the depths of amethyst I could see that she knew… she knew I was in love with her. I think she feared it but not for the reasons I would have thought before. I think she would have feared it from any man not just I who had so recently reduced an oak desk to splinters. But there it was… I was in love with her. I was in love with her heart, her courage, her stubbornness… her beauty was something that mattered little, yes those eyes had drawn me but it was more what hid behind them that called out to me. For all my horrid behavior and acts I could never be called shallow, ha… something to be proud of. I finally pushed away from the doorway, my body heavy, achy, and closed the door behind me. I passed the mirror as I walked to the bed and laughed at the sight it held. I was horrid, half naked and what clothes I did have on were torn and destroyed. I was a mess and Cossette had said she would be honored to show me around the Duchy tomorrow morning… after seeing me at my worst…
I looked over at the map that lay on my bed, reminded first of the stunning truth of this place. It was what I had always dreamt of as a child… When I walked the street of my families home, alone and tormented because of my birth, I would drive the hurt away with the vision of a Utopia… where we all learned to live together. Raya had once said something to that effect to me, though it was long after I had given up and become what I hated most. The dream still survived inside me though, it would be there now if I looked deep enough. I wanted to be part of her world even more now than before. The second thing that the map brought back to my memory was the shockingly intimate closeness we had share, however brief. I had meant no harm and acted purely on emotion when I pulled her into my arms. I was overcome by her kindness and I simply had to have her in my arms. Her hands rested on my chest, her heart a riot of thumping in my ear and yet all I knew was that I could live happily just as we were there. I had never in my life lost control to the point of embracing a woman in such a manner, not while she was aware and not if it wasn’t going to amount to a meal. I was not entirely sure what she was doing, fidgeting, pushing, slacking in my arms but her thigh… good God her thigh was attempting to drive me mad and I doubted heavily she knew she was doing it. I wondered dangerously what it would have been like to kiss her then… what would she have done had I kissed her full quivering lips… I blinked and rubbed the bridge of my nose. I had to be of a better mind set if I was to be in her company tomorrow. I wasn’t going to be out of line… not for a moment, I decided. No, I was going to be a perfect gentleman, polite, charming… I grabbed up the map and kissed it once before placing it on my nightstand.  I settled on my bed, Lord… I felt giddy.
“You are like a boy who is smitten, my Lord.” A voiced said suddenly. I rolled my head toward the door, knowing Ailo’s dry wit instantly. “I should kill you for letting her in but since I have never been as happy as I am right now… I’ll forgive you.” I said and smiled. I don’t think I had ever smiled at Ailo in quite that way before. “I see she has helped you return to form…” He remarked, observing my current state. “Like magic… she calms me in some ways and excites me in others…” I mused. “I’ll ready your bath, my Lord.” He said and started out of the room. “Thank you, Ailo… I know you do not approve of this.” I said. It did not matter really what he thought but he had always suffered my whims… and stood at my side when I was alone. “It could have gone either way, do not think me a saint so soon, my Lord.” He said and vanished into the washroom. I laughed, the bastard... I thought.
I washed and dressed for bed. Oddly enough the urge for Cossette’s innocent blood had waned and was nonexistent while she was in the room with me. I did not know if it had anything do with the changing of form or not but I was glad that it had dissipated. I slept soundly, no nightmares to mar my rest for once. No memories from Cossette’s blood. Though I would have liked to see another of her memories, perhaps a more pleasant one though, I’d have loved to see her laughing. The small glimpse I had gotten from Ailo of her smiling and laughing surrounded by children had been so potent to me.

I woke gently to the morning light. I had opened my window coverings before bed so that the subtle light would wake me. My amulet was safely around my neck to keep me from burning of course. “Bloody bright thing…” I murmured sleepily, holding my hand up to block the light from my eyes. They may not have burned but they certainly were not happy to have such a blaze forced on them so early. It was not direct light but my eyes were simply not used to it and apparently never intended to be. I was almost disappointed not to have seen my little friend upon awaking, but then little Daring was likely off on some adventure only the young and courageous could have… or on Cossette’s bed if he was smart…
I groaned at the thought, lucky little scamp. I dressed and left my hair in the pirate-like state it was in, today was not a formal day after all and I found I looked a bit harsh with it tied back. I didn’t need to look harsh today. Today… today I could be myself. I brushed the waves into a semblance of order and then check to see if Ailo was in his room. He was, he was in his room sleeping soundly and so I left him thus and made my way down the hall to the stairs. Something knitted low in my stomach… I couldn’t be nervous…? Impossible, yet, now that the masks were off, or so I hoped, I felt as if this was a new beginning. I felt I didn’t need to hide behind the façade I had created and I hoped that Cossette would not hide behind hers today either. I wanted to be with her, the real her, not the fearful prudent Duchess but the kind hearted woman that had comforted me the night before knowing very well how dangerous it was.
I would try as best I could to hide how truly smitten I was with her but for how long was uncertain… I wasn’t completely in control of myself around her and I would hate to ruin our day with an admittance of… well… she had barely weathered the hug. I couldn’t imagine her reaction to anything more than a handshake would be different. I descended the stairs gingerly. I should have been ashamed of myself for being so excited to spend the day with her when I knew she must be tired. But somehow it wasn’t in me to feel anything but happiness. The previous night’s events, the farmstead, the fight, were likely still on her mind, as they were still on mine, so to make up for the shameless glee I felt I would do all in my power to make her forget for a moment and be happy too. Because all I wanted was to make her happy and I would do everything in my power to let her know that. Everything. If she needed help I would help, if she needed an ear I would listen, if she just wanted to rest and not worry, I would stand outside the castle all night if it pleased her. I wondered now if I could have left, run, even to save her as I thought it would… No. No, I knew that I couldn’t. Not now, not ever.
The Duchess was awaiting me in the foyer, her back turned to me with little Daring in hand. The kitten saw me first through her arms and gave me a smug little look. Ah I could well imagine where he was all night, rested snuggly between Cossette’s breasts…
“Good morning, my lord...did you sleep well?” She asked, turning as my foot hit the floor. “Very well, thank you. And how are we doing this morning?” I asked with a smile, I could hardly keep from smiling actually. Daring raised his back end just slightly as Cossette scratched him. He nestle himself right up against her bosom as if taunting me… the little bastard. “Better than I thought.  This little terror was in with me for a change last night.  It's always impossible to feel depressed or uncomfortable when you see a kitten sleeping...” I new it, he was stealing my woman right from under my nose. “Indeed... the same with children I have heard...” I mused, “Where is our first stop today?” I asked. Cossette bent and released Daring to scamper off then rose to address me. “First things first.  I have something for you...” She said. I raised a brow in surprise, this was certainly unexpected. “Oh?” I asked. She held up a small cluster of Rowan twig, bundled tightly together with a red string. “This.” She said. “Do I smell so terribly?” I asked in jest. “Not exactly.  It's a masking charm.  It'll keep the Volven who live in town from picking up your scent as a Vampire, since I do not know if they will know you by sight or by name -- and since you're the only Vampire I've ever met who can endure the sunlight, no one will be none the wiser...” She said. “Thank you, Duchess.  That was very kind of you.” I took the little bundle and tucked it gently into my pocket. “There... we are quite safe now.” I said. “There is a catch, however.  The charm is for your protection -- those who will be your allies will be able to tell the difference.  Let's just hope you'll find more friends than foes, here.” The Duchess warned. “My foes are old and hold a grudge... I haven't made knew ones in quite awhile as you can imagine. But I will be on my best behavior, I swear it. I will not ruin your peace, my lady.” I said sincerely. “Thank you, my lord.  I'm not sure if I could defuse a bigger mess than what happened last night...”  She said before turning toward the doors. “...Ready?” She asked as the doors opened for us. “Lead on.” I said and followed her out.

We began the long walk down the drive, the birds were singing and the warm morning light offered a pleasant glow to the leaves and grass waking from a long winters sleep. “This woman we are going to see, how long before she has her child?” I asked, breaking the calm quiet that surrounded us. “Any day, now.  She's quite large, but the baby hasn't dropped in position. It could be a while longer, according to the midwife...” Cossette answered as we crossed the bridge at the end of the drive. “Her husband does not help with her care?” I asked, wondering why Cossette had to see to the woman’s care. She shook her head gently. “She's a widow, my lord -- ever since this past winter.  Her husband has been dead for only a few months...” She admitted sadly.  “I see... Forgive me for speaking without thought. She will be alright this way, alone with the child? Surely she will need someone to care for her after the child is born...” I asked. But then I had a notion that Cossette would not let her suffer alone with this fate. “Though I would guess she is safely under an angel’s wing... isn't she?” I muttered quietly, watching the country side as we walked. “We don't know.  Marguerite's health isn't the best that it could be...we'll have to wait until after she gives birth to determine what can be done...” Cossette said. Her eyes cast to the ground. “I will offer what I can, if you would take it…” I blurted out. What the hell had happened to me…? “You'd have to ask Marguerite about that...” I nodded in agreement. “Yes... I hope she might accept help from a stranger. Some are reluctant, its not something that’s often done it seems.” I said. “Depends on where you go in the world, I suppose.  The people here have gotten so used to sudden acts of kindness from the least expected sources that we've all come to rely on it.  But, we're not without our own set of problems, both internal and otherwise.  Every place has them, I suppose...” Cossette mused. “This place is different, trust me. You have a little haven here. I have been many places in the world throughout my life... the human condition... it is not something I would wish for anyone here to see. Marguerite and her child will be well off here, with all the friends she has.” I said. Cossette smiled to herself slightly “I hope so.  Certainly, she still has family who will look after her and neighbors who check in on her.  Her sister and her in-laws all reside out in Landes.  I just pray that both mother and child survive.  Hers will be the first baby born here in Espoir in quite a few years, if all goes well.” She said. I touched my hand to her back in a gesture of reassurance. “With all the good you do, God would not refuse a prayer from you. Do not worry.” I said. I felt her entire body twitch at the slight contact and her voice produced what could only be called a, nervous squeak, when she answered, “...Hem...thank you, my lord...” I couldn’t help my lips curling ever so slightly at her innocence. My God the woman had barely even been touched by a man…

Once we had come to the end of the incline, the little town of Espoir was laid before us. Passersby greeted the Duchess with smiles and some with looks of wonder, likely wondering who she was with, the women especially. The people were all pleasant and friendly if not a little dumbstruck to see Cossette with a man. At any rate, it was amusing watching her introduce me. Several Volven passed us by, once again with a friendly greeting, only a few paused to stare at me for a moment before going on about their business. Apparently the charm was working. We headed south toward the edge of town; a quaint little stone cottage with a thatch roof came into view quickly. Ivy and morning glories, open wide for the day’s sun, covered a good portion of the stone wall over the doorway. Cossette knocked gently on the door then called “Hello?  Marguerite...?” as she entered. I followed, ducking slightly below the door frame so not to hit my head. The inside of the home was just as quaint as the outside had been. The front door opened into a sitting area with a fire, a small dining area was off to the side and towards the back right corner there was another door that must have led to a kitchen. To the left of the fireplace was a small stairway, leading to a second story. I could only assume a bedroom or two lay above, one ready to receive a new little visitor.
“Duchess!”  A lovely young woman cried and enveloped Cossette with a warm embrace. Her eyes shifted to me, obviously not expecting anyone to be following her Grace. “Whoa...he's pretty...” She muttered, releasing the Duchess. “I inclined my head ever so gently and smiled. “Mademoiselle...  I hope I am not intruding?” I said. Cossette gave me a warning look as Marguerite blinked in awed wonder. I honestly couldn’t help my appeal to the young woman though. “Marguerite, this is Lord Mael Seraph -- a recent guest of mine in my home...” Cossette introduced. “Welcome, sir...I am humbled and honored to have any of her grace's company in my household...” Marguerite said. Her cheeks warmed with a dusting of pink. She went to curtsy but Cossette stopped her. “I don't think so, madam...not with you being as round as you are...” She scolded. “I would not have a woman so lovely bow to me. It is I who should bow to you. A mother is a Goddess in many ways.” I said and took the girl’s hand. “Tell me, Mademoiselle, will it be a boy or a girl... what do you wish for?” I asked leading her to a seat. The Duchess rubbed a hand across her face as if disbelieving my intentions with the girl. They were, of course, completely innocent. The girl was aglow with a young mother’s pride and the shyness of a child. She was truly a lovely girl. I helped her into her rocking chair near the fire and kneeled beside it. “The midwife says I'm carrying high...it's likely to be a girl, then. If it is, then I will name her Marie.” She beamed. “Marie, that is a lovely name.” I agreed.  “Cossette tells me it will be any day now, are you excited?” I asked. “I am...!  I've been eagerly waiting every since I found out.”  Marguerite looked lovingly down at her belly and rested her hand there. “We always wanted children, my husband and I...” She mused. “Cossette told me you had lost your husband... but I bet he is watching over you right now.” I told her and took her hand gently. “Excited as well for the child.” I leaned close then and whispered playfully to ease the conversation, “After, you must convince the Duchess that she must try it too...”
“Don't think I can't hear you, my lord...!” Cossette snapped from behind. Marguerite giggled. “Eavesdropping is rude, my lady.” I said and then winked at Marguerite. “We will have to see what we can do no? Stubborn thing, isn't she?” I whispered. “...That she is.” Marguerite agreed, still giggling. Cossette, miffed, her cheeks as usual betraying her, walked over and settled down near Marguerites legs. “Enough, enough...now let me see how your legs are today...”  She gently raised the young woman’s skirt. I eased back so that I was in a more proper position. “Oh, my...the swelling has gone right down...” Cossette said suddenly. “Hasn't it?  I was so surprised I could stand myself out of bed this morning on my own!” Marguerite said happily and rocked slightly in her chair. Cossette lowered the skirt back down gently. “I would say this is a very good sign!  Now, how about the rest of you...” She asked and rested her hand on Marguerite’s belly. Both women looked at each other with sudden surprise. I knew very little of the proper state of a woman with child so their astonishment was a mystery to me. “What is it?” I asked. Cossette turned to me with a brilliant grin, a look that nearly made my heart stop. “You have to feel this...!  Here...!” She said and took my hand, placing it on Marguerites belly. “...Give it a moment...” She said. And within that moment I felt it, the little thump against my palm, the stirring of life. I could not help but smile. “Well... hello Marie...” I said. The little one’s thoughts were a jumble of nonsense but she wished to be known, that was obvious. “Oh, she's going to be a troublemaker, isn't she...?” Marguerite exclaimed with tears in her voice, nearly undone by the moment. “Just like her father, no doubt...” Cossette said and leaned up to kiss and hold the girl close. I was still somewhat taken aback myself. I had never felt a child inside the womb before, never felt or truly comprehended the miracle of life. I, for a split second, imagined what it would be like to be feeling my own child growing inside a mother’s belly…Preferably, Cossette’s.
“Well, let me get started on what needs to be done for the day...” Cossette said suddenly, breaking me from my thoughts. “My lord, would you sit with Marguerite and keep her company...?” She asked. “I'd be happy too. If Marguerite does not mind... that is?” I asked and smiled. “Of course I wouldn't!” Marguerite winked. “This way, we can discuss how to best cure the Duchess of her stubbornness…” She teased. Cossette sighed deeply at this and made her way around me toward the kitchen. “Yes, something that should be discussed for certain...” I said, giving the Duchess a look. “Marguerite, wouldn't you say that she needs to settle down a bit?” I teased. “Of course I wouldn't!” She said, winking playfully until Cossette vanished from sight. “This way, we can discuss how to best cure the Duchess of her stubbornness when she's not around to hear us...” She reasoned. I made sure Cossette was well out of range before leaning close to Marguerite. “My lady, what would you say my chances are of charming her grace?” I asked in amusement. “She hasn't thrown me out yet.” I said. “Yet...?  How long have you been staying with her, my lord?” Marguerite asked in surprise. “About a week now I would say...” I told her. “Are you paying suit to her or are you just her guest?  The Duchess said to any who asked that there was no suitor only a few days ago...” Marguerite said then suddenly her lips curled into an understanding smile. “Oh...I see...persistent, are we?” She asked. “I was here on business but... after spending time with her I couldn't help but try... though she refuses to accept that I am a suitor.” I admitted with a telling smile. The woman was a challenge that was for sure. “Oh, yes...that's our Duchess.  Stubborn as a mule when she wants to be.”  Marguerite chuckled then leaned close. “She's had a good many suitors...did you happen to hear about the one from Norway...?” She asked. “Norway?” I repeated. She nodded gently. “He came here shortly after the Italian one was sent home...although I don't think he could decide what he was most interested in: the Duchess or some of the local boys...” Marguerite said. I was decidedly disturbed. “I...well... uh, that’s... I certainly wouldn't be doing that.” I assured her. Trying to comprehend the madness the poor Duchess must have gone through the past few years. “Well, I don't believe you're the sort who would.” She said then changed the subject, thankfully.  “Now, tell me: what have you tried?  Have you given her anything?” She asked. “A bolt of silk... I was thinking of flowers too…” I said low. Marguerite quickly shook her head as if I had said I wanted to give her the plague rather than a bouquet.
“No flowers.”  
“No flowers…?”
“No.  No flowers.  Everyone has given her flowers.  Give her the seeds instead.” Marguerite said. “Seeds... well, she is different in all other ways, why not this way as well…” I shrugged slightly. “I truly thank you for your help... you really have no obligation... you don't even know if am worthy.” I said and smiled. The young woman rocked gently back and forth in her chair, looking rather pleased. “It's my pleasure.  Cossi's gone so long without finding a sweetheart...I'm happy to help!” She said. I lowered my eyes for a moment, debating. “I might be in love with her...” I admitted, furrowing my brow. “I think she might be afraid of that.” Marguerites eyes widened in excitement then grew calm again. “You'd be the first, then.  The ones who came before...I doubted they saw past her looks or her dowry.  That makes you worthy enough, as far as I'm concerned.” She said. “I hope she can see that. I think she still fears I might be after her land. I am not, not at all. I have quite enough gold and land myself... not a bit of it brings any happiness though.” I looked around the little house for a moment, taking in the warmth that settled there. “You are very rich as you are, you know. I envy you and your little one.” I admitted. Marguerite blushed slightly.  “The late Duke put much stock in a simple life.  Few of us lack for anything, here, and those who do don't find themselves going without for long.” She smiled sympathetically, venturing to take my hand.  “I'm sorry your wealth doesn't bring you much, my lord...do you hope a marriage to her Grace would change that...?” She asked gently. “I would trade everything I have for her, but things like this can't be bought. No, we men must suffer through a grueling test to prove to you woman that we are worthy of making you a fine husband... I think that if I can manage to succeed and pass this test, then yes, I think it would make me happy.” I said truthfully. Hardly a challenge passed me that I could not conquer, to struggle with this one for so long was unheard of. Yes, if I were to win her heart I would be happy. “Then prepare for a long one, my lord.  The one suitor that Cossi DIDN'T pitch out on his arse was here for a month, and even then nothing was reached.  He was sent back to England shortly thereafter.” Marguerite said then looked down at her belly with raised eye brows. “It's too soon for you to be giving opinions, little one...” She remarked amused. The child was becoming restless hearing our voices, no doubt wishing to be part of the conversation. “She likes the trembling of my voice...” I said without thought and smiled.  Quickly, however, I caught my blunder and went for a save. “They like to be talked to in the womb... or so I have heard…”  Marguerite seemed none the wiser. “Oh?  Do you have any family, my lord?  Any younger brothers or sisters...?” She asked then. My first and natural respond was “No...”  But then that wasn’t true.  “Yes, a brother... half brother. We do not get along well.” I told her sadly. I didn’t even know if he was alive, honestly. “I'm sorry.  Forgive my thoughtlessness...it wasn't my place...” She said instantly then winced. “Ow...!”  She cried, glaring at her belly. “I just apologized...!  What more do you want...?” I chuckled lightly. “I'm afraid she WILL be like her father...” Marguerite said with a sigh. “No harm done. Her father must have been a good man to have such a lovely and sweet wife.” I said and smiled. She was truly a sweet girl, not a mean or selfish thought to her. “He was stubborn...” She said, her eyes shifting to me knowingly. “Those tests, as it were...” I squeezed her hand lightly. It was small and delicate, different from Cossette’s which was stronger and overly worked. There was so much about the Duchess that was a mystery. She was both the frightened virgin and the old tired mare with a bitter and sharp tongue. “To be remembered as you remember him... it would be worth all the tests in the world, trust me.” I said to Marguerite. “Marguerite...?  Who left this basket here...?” Cossette called from inside the kitchen, before Marguerite could answer me. “Monsieur Boulanger, just this morning!  He meant it for you and Lillith!” Marguerite called back.  Cossette emerged from the kitchen, in her arms a huge basket. “Pardon...?” She asked with confusion. “Monsieur Boulanger?” I inquired as I rose to my feet, intending to assist the Duchess. “The baker.”  Marguerite said and smiled over at Cossette. “He left it here before you and Lord Seraph arrived.  Look and see what's inside!”  Cossette pulled the cover off and examined the goods. It appeared there were all sorts of tarts, jellies, cakes and so on inside. “Oh, goodness...” She uttered looking rather embarrassed at Marguerite. “This is quite a bit of food...are you sure he left it for Lillith and I...?” Marguerite nodded gently while she rocked. “He did.”  Then the most positively evil look came over the girl’s fair features. “Perhaps you would like to take your guest out for a small picnic this morning...there's not much that needs to be done, here, and besides: it would be the courteous thing to suggest...” She suggested. I smiled as innocently as I could at Cossette but I too shared the evil amusement in what Marguerite had done to her. “What?  Oh, um...I don't think that...” Cossette stumbled. “Well, you would not want to be rude to your guest, now, would you...?” Marguerite asked innocently. She was absolutely wicked and I loved it. Cossette looked stuck. “Indeed, you might hurt my feelings now...” I added and made sure my eyes were as wide and pleading as possible. “And you work so hard, you need to relax. Don't you think Marguerite?” I said. “I couldn't be more in agreement, my lord!  Why, you can even go into the town market and buy some cheese, wine, and fruit to balance the sweetened palate of the pastries...!” She suggested with a smug little smile. God I loved this little girl. “Why, that we could Marguerite...” I agreed and raised an amused brow toward the floundering Duchess. Cossette fixed Marguerite with a look that declared the girl a dead woman at the end of the day. “Well, I...” Cossette began but I was not going to allow her to get away this time. “Please?” I asked, pleading, innocent, and offered my hand to take the burden of the basket from her. Cossette grimaced in defeat. “Very well...” She muttered and allowed me the basket. I nearly cackled in victory but it was only a small Tift that had been won here not a battle and certainly not the war. I bowed my head to Marguerite and pressed an innocent thank you kiss on her hand. “I am in your debt, Madam...” I told her and I was. “Just take good care of her for us.” She whispered then added loudly, so Cossette could hear. “...And there's a beautiful old oak tree in the middle of the southwesterly field that would be the PERFECT spot!  Cossette can show you!  She knows which one...!” I turned to see Cossette by the door, cringing, hating Marguerite just a bit right then, though I think I had just fallen in love with her! “Oh, you horrible little snipe...!” She all but snarled. Marguerite lifted her dainty chin and waved Cossette off as if their roles were reversed. “Oh Duchess... now, that is no way to speak to such a wonderful young woman...” I said, grinning like a fool, no, worse yet, a school boy. I opened the door and gave Marguerite a wink as we left. “We've known each other for years -- I'm allowed.” Cossette snapped as she went through the door. “And when you have known me for years, shall you treat me the same?” I asked, lacing the question with all sorts of expectations. The Duchess did not answer me but she grumbled something about being forced into this arrangement. “Have a pleasant morning, you two...!” Marguerite called happily as I shut the door behind us.

We headed for the center of town as that was where the venders and merchants were. It was alive with hustling and bustling people, some human and some Volven. Still, the Volven did not seem at all aware of whom or what walked among them. We selected some wine, cheese and fruit to go with our pastries, though honestly I felt it would go to waste since I wasn’t much for human food. I did love sweets however. They were one thing that I would go out of my way to eat. From the market we headed southwest, toward a large field and a lone Oak that rested atop a small incline. Its roots were bared to the air and its branches were gnarled with age but it still kept a fine canopy of foliage to protect weary travelers from the sun. As we walked across the field each step caused an eruption of scents to fill the crisp spring air; sweet grass and even sweeter wild flowers. Heaven, quite possible, this could be heaven I thought as I was guided by the loveliest angel of the choir. Up close the tree nearly seemed alive but then again it might have been. You could not assume anything here. Near the raised roots the grass was sparse and I couldn’t allow Cossette to dirty her dress, so I removed my coat and spread it across the ground for her to rest on. I was surprised when she accepted the offer… though it was begrudgingly so. “Thank you...” She said and settled herself. Then added shyly, “...This wasn't quite what I had in mind, you realize.” I sat next to her, possibly too close because she shifted just slightly away. “Oh? But I have learned and seen a lot of the Duchy... was this not your goal?” I asked. “You've seen but one household, my lord -- this is a much bigger place than that...” She returned quickly. “I've seen one household that spoke a million words in your favor and I have seen little bits of Espoir. Taking a little break for a meal does not mean the day is done, does it?” I reasoned. My eyes, free of my control now, wondered over her features as the morning light made the reds and gold in her hair stand out and shimmer in long inspiring streaks of fire and sunlight. “No, I suppose not.” She said sliding her long fingers over and around her ear, folding the silken strands of hair behind it. The slope, the elegant arch of her neck was now visible to me, God I had not thought I would see her like this in the sun’s light. She took my breath away. She took my thoughts away and worse, she took my reasoning and commonsense as well. “W-wine... would you like some wine?” I managed. I had not realized I was but moments away from attempting to lean over and press a kiss to her throat, a kiss that would last a life time. “The man... he... said it was a wonderful year.” I added weakly. “No, thank you -- not right now.  Although, truth be our vineyards have never had a bad year.” She said, thankfully oblivious to my blatant staring and appreciation of her person. “Yes.” I muttered somehow as she plucked a frosted pastry from the basket. “...I very much appreciate this, you agreeing to do this I mean.” I said, unable to tear my eyes away from her every move. “Well...I admit we didn't begin our association with each other in the healthiest manner possible...and I wanted to cleanse the way, as it were.  I know Garconer was cruel to you, and there is no excusing it.  I hoped to make it up to you, somehow...showing that not all who live here are like him...” She said. I took one of the pasties from the basket, yet its delicious flakes and frosted topping were not at all a temptation in comparison to the feast that sat before me, timidly nibbling away at her sweet. “It’s forgotten. I am used to it, really...” I assured her. I fiddled with the treat, almost unable to stomach the idea of eating it… Lord what was wrong with me today?  “If I asked, would you tell me about your father...?” I averted my eyes toward the pastry as I spoke.
Cossette looked over to me, stilling slightly. “What would you like to know about him?” She asked. “Your fondest memories... what made him a good man. I saw the portrait and... The people's opinion of him dictates he was a great man, I thought you might have the best account.” I told her truthfully. “Hm…it’s almost impossible to choose the best anecdote to describe him – there are so many to choose from. But my father was a true gentleman of our class: polite, eloquent, kindly, wise…but always with the ability to command those around him. He never shied from challenging authority if he felt it was justified. It made him overbearing to deal with in court, but the late King often relied on it. They were constant correspondents with one another in which my father would give him counsel. He was as trusted as any administrator – a position he used to help further secure our freedom from the rest of the country. As Duke he worked tirelessly for the people he governed – he hated how so many of our peers squandered their wealth, and despised how the current King seemed no better. It was a view that made him some enemies, but none of any consequence. But as my father, and only my father, he was my teacher and my friend. He was a scholar of many fields, and he passed his knowledge to me as heiress to his station: mathematics, science, philosophy, theology, history, languages, swordsmanship, weaponry, athletics, dance, music…the wealth of his mind was perhaps his greatest gift to me.” She smiled softly remembering. “…Many voiced their distaste that he would bestow all of this on a daughter instead of a son…but he cared not. I was his tomboy, and he loved me well for that…even if I did usually return home bruised and scratched from some skirmish with the other children in town…” She said. I couldn’t help but smile when she did and I couldn’t help but find amusement in the end of her tale. “You, in trouble with the other children... I can't believe it.” I said teasingly. “Shows how little you know about me.” She said with a glance and smirk. She took a bite of her tart, closed her eyes and rested her back against the old tree before releasing a moan of pure sweet induced delirium. I nearly swallowed my tongue but somehow managed to keep my composure. “Tell me then, tell me everything.” I asked and nibbled the frosting on my sweet, far more interested, however, in nibbling on her. “Truly?  You want to know...?” She asked, turned toward me and sliding her thumb between her lips, lingering, sucking gently the sweet, cloudy topping from her flesh. I nearly rolled backward down the hill. “More than anything.” I managed. She blinked as if unsure at first what I meant. “Well...I have a bad temper, for one...but I'm sure you know that already.” She said. I nearly burst out laughing. “Oh and how I know... but I love it. So, what else?” I insisted with as much charm as I could muster. “How do you love it?  Has the unceasing attention of other court ladies ruined you for their fawning...?” She asked slightly flustered. “There is something about the way you hate me that’s...” I paused and motioned with my hand, trying to sum it up in words but I found it impossible. “I can't really say but... I love it. You are different than the others. You can see why I do not care for fawning, can't you? Knowing it is false and that these ladies would run if they only knew what lurked beneath. You didn't run... completely.” I smiled at her softly. “Better, you came back.” Cossette’s cheeks slowly changed to a rosy pink. “Well...I wouldn't say I altogether hate you.  More accurately I could say I didn't care for your conduct in Versailles.  I knew what you were the instant I saw you -- that didn't bother me as much as when we danced, well...” She shrugged thoughtfully, perhaps thinking of something, then said “...Suffice to say I've had more than one suitor fail to keep his hands to himself.  I've grown weary and impatient of such things.” She nervously and hurriedly finished her tart then dusted her skirts free of any crumbs. “I was never quite sure what I did to deserve that slap... but if you hadn't I might not be here now…” I mused. Then suddenly the idea of other men, even before I had known her, touching her improperly, made my temper rise. “...The others put their hands on you after you refused them?” I asked, nearly biting into my tongue to keep my tone mild. “A few did -- but none were as bad as the suitor who came from Italy.  He's the reason I carry a weapon under my skirts nearly every day...” She said nonchalantly. “I must be worse since you actually stabbed me once or twice...” I said, feeling a bit ashamed of myself now. “Do you think you're the only one to have been stabbed by me, my lord?  The Italian suitor was here for only a couple of hours, at best, and when he left he departed in fewer pieces than he arrived with...and with a slight change of faith, too, no less...” She said with a great amusement. My manhood shivered at the thought. “...perhaps I did manage better...” I said and chuckled slightly. “And I have not been cast out... perhaps you are softening a bit to me?” I asked. Before she could answer me, I noted a tiny bit of glaze remained on her lower lip. Without thought, I reached out, took her chin in my hand and slid my thumb over her lip to remove the glaze. I was nearly as stunned as she was, though I was more stunned that she had not cleaved my hand right off when I touched her. “Wh-What...?” She breathed, becoming a lamb-like for an instant. God I wanted to kiss her… but instead I reach down into the basket and retrieved a grape. I brought it to her mouth and slid the little fruit over her lip, the lips I wished to kiss so badly. “You should eat the fruit... its far better for you...” I whispered, finding nothing better to say. Surprisingly, she took the grape into her mouth, I watched helpless as she rolled it with her tongue then bit down viciously, crushing not only the grape, but my hopes at getting anywhere with this game. “Remind me to keep my fingers away…” I breathed. “Why...?” I asked. Why summed up many questioned I had actually. “Why, what, my lord…?” She asked, feigning innocence. “Why are you so...” My eyes drifted to her mouth, so tempting and dangerous. “Violently against affection...?” I asked, my hand still holding her chin in a gently grip. “Because for the last three years of my life...it has meant our survival.” She admitted and raised her hand to mine to remove it. “I don't seek to remove your world, Cossette, I only wish you let me be a part of it, a part you...” I told her. I obliged her silent request that I remove my hand but I did so slowly, tracing the line of her jaw with my fingers before snatching her hand.  “I'm not playing a game with you.” I said. “That will take some time to sink in, then.”  She said and raised an amused eyebrow at out hands. “...And for one so concerned about keeping his fingers safe you're doing a fairly poor job of it.” I smiled. “I trust you, you trusted me the other day as well.” I leaned close to her, so close I could smell the sun in her hair. “You are terribly cruel to the men who fall for you, Cossette.” She leaned back, thrusting her breasts up innocently but nonetheless enticingly so. “Because it's always such a mess sorting out the diamonds from the gravel.  Tell me you haven't met with similar trouble before, rogue that you are...” She answered plainly. “I read minds, I know a soul the moment I meet it. I can't read you and I want nothing more than to know everything about you…” I said truthfully. I practically had her on her back. My eyes locked with hers, searching for something to read. “I have never been one to speak of myself.  I find it's the sign of a rather dull person if all they can chatter about is themselves.  Rather, I would be more interested in knowing more about you, my lord, as you yourself used to be the figment of my imagination as a child...” She said quickly. Ah and there it was again, my hideous legacy overshadowing my present. I drew back, giving her room to breath once again. “Yes, it can never be forgotten.” I said tiredly. “There will never be a new beginning for me, only forgiveness if I am so lucky to receive it. Ask then, what would you like to know, my dear?” She took in a deep breath of relief. “Consider for a moment that I grew up with the warning that if I misbehaved at all that the Vampire King would come and steal me away in the night, according to Lillith.  My question for you is, would you...?” She asked. Albeit playfully, she could not know how that questioned dug into my heart. I smiled gently at her, wondering if the little girl was so brave and curious still. “Steal such a troublesome little thing away? If I did I might bring you right back and tell Lillith to stop trying to scare little children with my legend.... as for right now,” I paused, thinking. “I would take you away if I could and treasure you like no other.” She smiled genuinely and laughed. I hadn’t thought it possible that I could make her do either but here we were, and she was smiling and laughing. “Just the adventure I spent some time picturing in my daydreams -- although now that I'm full grown I daresay that the context of being stolen has changed slightly...” She said. I hesitated. Not quite sure if I should be completely truthful with her but then… if she would, could accept me at all she would have know sooner or later. “I took a woman once... that’s likely where the tale comes from. It would have made a great tale for Lillith to tell a little girl...” I confessed, resting my back against the old tree. And it would have, undying love, a Princess…all the things little girls loved. Cossette joined me, resting too against the tree, her arm faintly brushing against mine. She looked at me sincerely. “Lillith often meant it as a device to check my behavior...not the most affective thing she's done, but nevertheless...”  She admitted then her tone softened. “Your history is your own, and I will not trespass unless invited to.  But may I ask another question, one of a slightly less personal nature to you...?” She asked. “Certainly” I said, relieved she did not look at me differently now. “Is the offer of that wine still open...?” She smiled. “All offers are open for you, my dear.” I told her and it meant far more than just the wine. I retrieved the bottle from the basket and poured her glass, she accepted it. It did not seem like much but this moment, this time with her, was a slice of heaven I had never known. Life, normalcy, empathy… these things I thought I would never know. “So let me make one in return as a show of goodwill, if you'll permit it.” She said suddenly. I raised a brow at her, thinking to myself; there is more then this? “Alright…” I said. “You say that this place is a haven, one that you wish to be a part of. Many others have come here seeking the same thing – looking for sanctuary from the outside. I told you last night that there might be more than one reason for your coming, and although I may not be the most orthodox daughter of the church, I believe that God has his own way of working miracles…” She began, her tone soft and gentle, wise beyond her years. “Therefore, I offer you the opportunity to find your own haven, here…and perhaps, a new beginning to follow it. We all need some place to rest and take refuge in, and you, I think, may need one most of all.” She then added softly. “What do you say, my lord...?” I failed to form words at her offer, I could not find nor could I manage anything to force by my lips but “Duchess...” She sipped at her wine, watching, knowing I would never refuse her. “Well, you're already here...despite all efforts.  You found your way and here you are!  What else am I to do with you...?” She said. I wanted to kiss her, no, no I wanted to give her everything in the world, everything she could possible want. Plant seeds, bah, I needed something that would make her heart weep and her eyes water with pure joy. “Frankly I can hardly find a one word to speak at the moment...” I admitted truthfully. “You would not be the first.  But, as long as you insist on staying for what time it takes for you to find your rogue, I might as well concede some hospitality to you...” She said as if it was a mighty sacrifice, and it was, in truth for her, a sacrifice…. Because we both knew what this would lead to. “You realize you have only made things worse for yourself? I'm barely able to keep myself contained around you already... then you offer this? You are trying to take my heart and keep it in a box on your mantle, aren't you, my lady?” I asked, unable to put proper thought to the words spilling from my mouth. “Not on purpose, I assure you...” She muttered, her eyes widening slightly, her blood pumping just a bit faster through her veins… though I could hardly hear it over the pounding of my own heart. “Perhaps not, but you have done so all the same…” I said and touched her free hand. “You tell me that God has plans for me here... perhaps he has some for you as well...” Our eyes locked, she stared at me for what seemed like forever then jerked her head to the side and quickly gulped the rest of the wine down. “Maybe…” She said. I lifted her hand I had been touching and brought it to my lips. “I'll always be at you beck and call... if you have a need, I’ll fill it. It is all I can give as thanks unless you wish for something more...” I said and pressed a kiss to her fingers. It was hardly a kiss, more a brush by my lips over her flesh. “...in that case...um...” She muttered, looking at me. “...Uh, I'm sorry...what was that...?” She asked flustered. I couldn’t help but smile. She was so beautiful and pure of heart… I wanted so badly to taste her but I managed to tide myself over by brushing my lips over her fingers, letting the feather soft skin tickle my chin. “I said I'm yours, forever...” We were close, very close. I might kiss her, I might try I thought.
“BEETLE!!” She screamed suddenly and jumped to her feet. She began wildly brushing her skirts off in a fit of terror. I was at a loss, I got to my feet but I wasn’t about to help her brush her skirts off and get slapped across the face again. “... where is it?!” I asked her. “I don't know...!  Somewhere...!  Just...!  Argh...!” She groaned with exasperation shutting her eyes and falling against the old Oak. She began knocking her head back into it, I wasn’t at all sure what she was doing but I reacted before she wore a hole in the back of her head. “Cossette! What on earth are you doing?” I asked as I placed my hand behind her head. Her eyes were shut tight like a frightened lamb and I was but a scarce few inches from her now. One perfect Amethyst eye peeked from under long lashes and looked at me. “I'm so sorry.  I can lure Volven on any given full moon, rain, sleet, or snow...but beetles are a nuisance...I apologize...” She said, though I was not entirely convinced it was just the beetle that had her beating her head against the tree. The beetle was sitting on her shoulder, rather enjoying its seat at the moment and I couldn’t help but chuckle. “Keep your eyes closed for a moment...” I told her. “Why?” She shot back suspiciously, eyes wide with accusation. My lip nearly twitched into a smile. “If you don't, you might scream... close your eyes and hold very still...” I told her. She watched me for a moment then closed her eyes. Her body was stiff as a board and I wondered if half the reason she closed her eyes was not because of trust but more because she hoped I would take the reins of control from her and give her exactly what she wanted.
But I was more in the mood to be kind to her, so I brushed the little beetle from her shoulder. “You are safe now...” I said but did not move. I was slightly unable at the moment to do so. She opened her eyes and took in a ragged breath, as aware of her body pressed between mine and the tree as I was. “Is...that all...?” She asked. I think for an instant I did not breathe when she asked that. “Do you want it to be all, Cossette...?” I asked. She nodded sheepishly. That was all right, fear was not what I wanted to see in her eyes when we came together. I leaned in and, to her surprise, passed by her lips and pressed a light kiss on her flush cheek. It was terribly warm and soft, terribly wonderful. “You are so sweet...” I breathed and pulled away, leaving my hand braced on the tree so I did not fall from the dizzying effect of her scent. Her eyes were wide like a child’s and her mouth slightly agape. Her breast rose and fell quickly as she sucked in breath and I could feel the shivers running down her body in waves. It was all I could do not to take her in my arms and finish what had slowly begun here. “W-Was that truly necessary, my lord...?” She finally breathed, pressing herself firmer against the tree. “Yes... I might have died from not knowing how soft your skin would be beneath my lips...” I told her truthfully, raggedly and pushed off the tree to get my bearings. I was dizzy from her closeness and her scent, trying desperately not to lose my control and give her a kiss upon her neck. I turned from her and pretended to look out over the field, it was a lame attempt but hers was no better. Her thoughts were buzzing wildly and energy sparked the air around her, I could only imagine what I would find beneath her skirts… “So... where to next?” I asked. My voice was huskier than normal, nearly a growl. God I wanted her. “What...?  Oh, um...I'm not sure...Marguerite's was the only place truly pressing we had to be, and obviously plans were changed...Still, I am curious...aside from seducing young women do you have any other past times or hobbies?” Cossette said, returning to her curt self, which was actually good because it eased the now awkward and tense air between us.  “I wasn't aware I was seducing anyone.” I said pointedly. “But yes, I like to paint.” “Paint?  Really!?” She burst out. I raised an eyebrow at her. She seemed overly excited about this admittance. “Yes… I tend to paint things I am interested in so it eases the urge to posses them...” I said, musing over the drawer full of sketches I had of her back at the castle. “There's a shop in Ailes that sells all manners of painting supplies.  The quality may not be what you are accustomed to, but would you like to see it...?” She asked,  insisted, nearly pleaded. I wasn’t entirely sure why she was so excited but then…  I turned back to her and smiled as if nothing had happened between us. “I would love to.” I said. She instantly looked relieved. “Alright, then!  It's a couple of miles from here, so we'll need horses to make the best time...” She said then stuck her thumb and forefinger in her mouth and whistled. It was high and piercing and I swore my eardrums burst from it. I even winced slightly. “Oh... Cossette, please...” I muttered and rubbed the now tender, vibrating flesh of my ears. Cossette walked toward me and looked out toward town. “I'm sorry...I probably should have warned you...” She said. After a moment she smiled and pointed toward the road. “There she is...look!  And she even brought a friend for you...!” Sure enough Etain was racing toward us with one of the carriage horses, neither with saddle or bridle. “Smart horse...” I remarked with a raised brow. Cossette joined the horses as they slowed and invited me to follow. “I let the horses out earlier this morning before we left.  Etain's a marvelous girl -- isn't that right, my lady...?”  She said, patting the horse’s neck affectionately before checking the other. “...And this fellow was abandoned with his carriage-mate a few days ago -- I can't imagine what heartless wretch would do that to any animal...” Cossette said with distain. I nearly cracked a guilty smile but somehow managed to keep a straight face. “I can't imagine...” I muttered.
Cossette grabbed Etain’s mane and swung herself up onto the horse’s back. I might have been impressed had I not been shamefully distracted by the show of bare foot, ankle and…thigh… as her skirts rode up her legs. Good God… long, smooth… “Will you be alright riding bareback...?” She asked, breaking me from my trance. I’d of liked to shown her the true meaning of riding bareback… in the field, in her bed… on the dining room table… “I uh...” I had to clear my throat so as not to sound like a beast. “I Believe I will have too, since the horses did not saddle themselves. “ I said, trying desperately not to look at her very, very exposed thigh. God she was a wild little thing beneath those skirts… I mounted my horse. “You'll be fine...” She said. “...Or does the Vampire King need someone to hold his hand...?” She asked teasingly. “It depends on whose hand it is.” I shot back. Cossette turned to me and smiles a challenge my way then gave a kick and raced through the field toward town. I wasn’t about to be shown up but…she did do it rather well.