Chapter Text
Cold. Hunger. Pain. A beggar girl sat still at a nearby alley with an empty tin can near her reddish iced cold toes, her ragged clothing barely warming her up as the rigid temperature continues freezing her, yet, instead of searching for shelter or warmth, the poor child idly stare at the ground.
“You there..”
A deep manly voice calls out, the girl could barely rise her head.
“Such flame-like blue hair you have, only the chosen ones blessed by Talanton possess such quality..”
The beggar girl stares at the tall man, his clothing more appropriate for cold weathers, and a sign of high status adorned his frame. An aristocrat. Before the girl could blink, a harsh gloved hand pulled her upright, making her stand barefoot at the freezing concrete.
It all seems like a second, one blink she was dying from the cold in the streets, another she was standing inside the manor of one of Hyperborea’s appointed Dukes. The child no longer wore the torn apart dress, but now put in a tailored navy suit jacket adorned with golden accents, featuring a white jabot around her neck, below, she was put on a white stylish shorts, a pair of black boots, and finally, a navy cape with ruffles at the end at one side of her shoulder.
“From this day forward, you are Lord Cerydra, heir of the Duke of Hyperborea.”
For the first time since she entered the manor, the girl finally speaks.
“C-Cery…dra?”
The aristocrat pauses at her stuttered voice, face in disgust, disbelief. A slap echoes in the room, so sharp it nearly brought tears to the child’s eyes.
“Bloody hell, can you speak at all?”
The child looks down, mouth shut.
“Matter not, you’re still a rare find, so rare, a little work can fix your.. unfortunate circumstance.”
The man kicks her leg to grab her attention, making the child stumble over.
“Who are you again.”
She did not cry, she did not sniffle, she stood back up and lower her head.
“I-I am.. I am.. Cery..dra…”
“Again.”
“I am— Cery..”
”Again.”
“I am Cerydra..”
She clenches her fist, “I am her.”
Entering a room as cold as ice, the girl named Cerydra stands in front of two adults, a man dressed in black with his blue hair quite similar to hers, and a woman dressed in deep blue, both of them wearing a glistening flame-like crown. The aristocrat introduces them as the Duke and Duchess.
Preferably, her now father and mother.
Parents.. she doesn’t remember her real ones. Or if she even had one.
“Striking blue hair.. where did you find her?”
The duke speaks, quite surprised and in disbelief.
The duchess remains silent, cold, out of touch, her empty eyes bore into the child’s cyan ones.
“My n-name is.. Cery..dra..”
As red as the depths of hell, the dukes expression frowned. “Is she an idiot? Speak child.” His voice raises, deep and cold. He steps closer to her, the boots his wearing brings stomps so loudly against the floor.
The girl pauses, feeling fear as the man towers over her, eyes burning in fiery anger, her mouth opens but it didn’t let out any words, just cut off sentence and shaky breathes. The moment of hesitation earns her another slap, much harder and sharper, causing her to again fall onto the floor, knees down.
Suddenly, a touch on her shoulder, cold at first, and in a split second, a hot sensation burns her clothing, burning the skin underneath as the flesh starts to melt. She screams and cries, trying to get away only for the man to shove her down again.
“Imbecile, get this girl out of my sight!”
Cold hands brought her back to her feet, a woman dragged her out of the room as the angry screams of the duke echoes in her ears. The excruciating pain on her left shoulder left her unable to breathe properly, slowly loosing consciousness by the growing second. Before passing out completely, all she could hear was chaos and anger storming the walls.
“Y-Your Grace, she is all you have..! She’s still clearly a child of Talanton!”
The aristocrat man tries to excuse, only to be shoved by the duke as he turns to his wife, pointing a mad finger.
“This is all your fault! All you needed to do was give me an heir and you failed! You failed your only purpose in this world and now the Borealis line is doomed for having this idiot stupid girl as the next heir!”
The duchess remains silent, enduring the shouts the man throws her way. And as the door slowly begins to close, she averts her eyes to stare forward as the figure of a child slumped down on the floor laying still, the burnt skin glistening in pain, an indication of what future the girl will have. A future for someone who doesn’t deserve this cruel fate, all because the Duchess of Hyperborea couldn’t bear an heir for the Borealis family line to continue becoming the prosperous lineage in all of Hyperborea.
And when the duke slapped her, all she could hope was forgiveness. Not for him, not for herself, but for the innocent child who is suddenly thrown inside a cage, forcibly enduring the flames her pure heart wasn’t meant to shoulder.
Soft knocks echoed throughout the room, before the person lying soundly asleep in the bed could be awaken from slumber, the wide wooden door opens.
“Rise and shine, my dear! You have to see the beauty of Okhema in the morning!”
A woman opens the curtains as the sunlight instantly blinds the entire room, forcing the person to finally open their eyes, which they quickly learn was a bad idea because of the light that immediately blinded them.
“Argh.. Must I remind you that I arrived too late in the evening.. I need more sleep, Lady Tribios..”
Despite the protest, the woman— Tribios, could only shake her head and began pulling the sheets off. “It’s your first day here, Cerydra dear,” She sternly answered, “And must I remind you, you have many duties to fulfill, remember, you’re not here just because of your studies.”
The reminder of her responsibilities made Cerydra groan, as much as she dislikes her fate as the Duke of Hyperborea, she couldn’t practically step down without a reasonable explanation, best she angers her Majesty more than she could. Not entirely being there for her own state and people back home already did a tole for Talanton, nevertheless, she was still a bit grateful they granted her to at least pursue the one thing she loved.
Because Talanton— the Majesty of Justice, could never deny their children’s passion of the law and justice itself. Maybe they blessed Cerydra a bit too much, for the Duke’s trial of fighting to pursue her studies rather than stay and do her duties definitely earned her this opportunity.
“Now, wash up and meet me outside after.” Tribios happily pats her head before walking out, her heels tapping on the marble floor, before she could exit, a voice calls out.
“I’m not going straight to attending my duties, am I?”
The red haired woman laughs, then she smiles, motherly and familiar. “I’m glad you know, we’re going around town to have breakfast, don’t take too long now.” Giving a last smile, the door eventually closes, leaving Cerydra alone in her room.
So, she began starting her day.
Fixing the bedsheets and pillows, stretching, going into the bathroom for a shower, and entering the walk in closet to pick out an attire for the day, a routine she can follow even with her eyes close. She then puts on a pair of black slacks, sliding her arm to wear a white long sleeved shirt with puffed cuffs, hiding the burnt skin on her left shoulder, and on top, a navy patterned waistcoat and a stylish white cravat adorned her neck before putting on a pair of black oxford loafers.
Cerydra steps in the mirror to fix herself more, putting her whitish blue hair in it’s usual low pony hair style, smoothing the fabric of her clothes and deciding she won’t wear her coat for today, Okhema is a much warmer place than Hyperborea considering its in Kephale’s supervision.
Finally, the last touch of her morning routine, one she loathes on doing. Her cyan eyes pierces to look at a crown— her crown, an indication of her high title and status, and with practiced hands, she puts it on with a bore expression, like all the other times this thing adorned her head.
Cerydra breathes out a sigh as she looks at herself in the reflection, despite the blue in her eyes, it burns with fiery ambitious red, an ambition she puts on herself. Not to those people who locked her in, but for her, she will become the lawyer that will shake the laws in Hyperborea, and soon, in whole of Amphoreus.
“Your grace, Lady Tribios is waiting for you in the carriage.”
A servant opens the door slightly as to not intervene, nodding in greeting. Cerydra averts her attention from the mirror and nods back, walking out of the room as the servant escorts her out of the mansion. Not long after, they’ve arrived outside, where a carriage was waiting for her, beside it, Tribios stood nearby chatting with the coachman, which was the one who notices her first and immediately offering a greeting and tipping his hat.
“Finally, let’s make haste.” Tribios quickly ushers her inside, which made Cerydra puff out an exhale.
“Where are we even heading so early? I haven’t gotten breakfast yet, Lady Fatorum.” The duke says as the carriage starts to exit the mansion and onto the lush bustling streets.
Okhema, or its most popular name, the Eternal Holy City of Amphoreus, has always been this lively and welcoming place. Cerydra remembers her time here when she was in her youthful age, one where her studies were most conducted because of how easy the knowledge was to acquire in this city, and its where she had met Lady Tribios, a wonderful teacher all the way from Janusopolis who begun settling here in Okhema.
“I know, I wouldn’t starve you, who do you think I am?”
Cerydra only lets out a puff of air the second time, relaxing her hand on the window frame as her eyes gazes at the street. “Though I do appreciate you taking me in as I continue my study, but I don’t plan on staying long here in Okhema.” She briefly reminds, not looking the woman in the eye.
Tribios hums, folding the fan and placing it on her lap. “Figure as much, you and your pursue of the law,” She says a bit sarcastically, “You really are Talanton’s child.”
Cerydra tries not to groan, her trial on proving her own pursuit of the law took a tool on her back then, it wasn’t easy going against her very own Majesty in court, explaining that the justice system in Hyperborea was filled with hypocrisy when the aristocrats took over the land the second they noticed Talanton was falling ill. Albeit that claim almost made her head be put on the stick, Cerydra stands victorious and was granted the chance to expand her studies, even going as far as Talanton giving her their blessing.
Though Cerydra deemed that action a bit unnecessary considering her love of the law is done by her and her only, but whatever, she supposes it was for support.. or something.
Before Cerydra could reply, the carriage had stopped moving, an indication that they’ve arrived at the destination. The footman outside opened the carriage door before bowing and greeting.
Cerydra exits first, offering her hand for Tribios to take, which resulted a sweet smile from the older woman.
“Glad to know my teaching of mannerism has been put to use.”
“It’s basic manners, Lady Tribios.” The duke says flatly. “No need to praise it.”
The older woman fondly sighs before walking first, smiling back at the familiar people passing by the streets, some greeting in respectful gestures and words. Although, some lingers a bit longer than others, hush whispers and childish squeals upon seeing a new charming face next to the lady.
Tribios, of course, was highly observant of it, she leans into her once student’s side, giving out a whisper. “Looks like you’re gaining some attention,” She says, quickly noting how a group of young women walked by with red faces and excited voices. “Especially from fine beautiful ladies.”
Cerydra had grown accustomed to these kind of behavior, it was a shame to her part how even in the other side of the country she was still recognized as the Duke of Hyperborea. She was hoping she’ll go unnoticed by that title, but alas, it follows her like a shadow.
At the lack of response— other than a slight robotic nod from the younger one— Tribios fixes her posture and adds a thought that she remembered.
“Have you felt romantic love these past years, dearest?”
That made the duke almost stop walking, almost, but her mind automatically drifts back to the night she practically vowed to the person she calls father in his deathbed that she will die alone. No lover. No heir to continue the Borealis lineage. Which was a bit ironic knowing she doesn’t even have his blood, the one thing they shared was having striking blue hair, other than that, this whole ordeal was only a grand facade to fool the entire Hyperborea nation and for his own sake to gain political power.
So to answer that question, Cerydra vowed to never look for someone to marry, because leading it will be the one thing her father wants of her.
And she is sure as hell won’t be granting that bastards wish.
“My vow has never faltered,” She answers confidently, mind set in stone, “And it will never be.”
Receiving the same response from all those years ago made Tribios nod her head, respectful and understanding, but her eyes didn’t hide the way it glints in sadness and worry. Nevertheless, she shook it off and hooked her arm around Cerydra’s elbow, which made the latter fix her own arm for more of a respectful manner.
Finally, they came to a stop at a wonderful looking cafe, with beautifully decorated flowers and well arranged tables. The kind of place that houses for a cheerful and lively atmosphere for any time of the day. Cerydra supposes this kind of fit her teacher’s interest, considering she fits the cafe’s description at first glance.
“Here we are, one of my favorite places in Okhema!”
Tribios excitedly welcomes Cerydra like she was the owner of the establishment herself, even grinning like a child despite her olden age. Fortunately enough, seeing the older woman this childlike always made the duke develop a soft spot for the latter, no matter how much she tries not to show it.
With a barely hidden smile, Cerydra moves along, walking in first since Tribios had literally ushered her inside.
Immediately, the person at the counter offers a bright greeting towards Tribios. “Oh! Lovely morning, my lady! It’s wonderful to see—“ The woman pauses after her eyes drifted to the one standing beside the red haired maiden. She recognizes that striking blue hair and flame-like crown.
“Hello, dear Cassondra, my reservation? ” Tribios greets back, nudging for Cerydra to do the same, which she robotically says a quick greeting and a small smile. The woman’s face on the counter only grew redder by the action, causing her to spew out stuttered words.
“Cassondra? Are you alright?”
“Ah! My apologies, my lady..! W-Welcome, your grace, l-let me escort you to your table.”
The brunette woman walks out, doing her best to give a proper smile, Cerydra could point out how she almost certainly trips over her own heels.
“Such a charmer, here you are already sweeping ladies off their feet.” Tribios fortunately whispers with a playful smirk. Cerydra could only give a tight smile, mind screaming for a wonderful delicious meal to be serve already.
“Here you are, please let me know what you’ll be having, e-excuse me.” Cassondra bowed so low she could almost kiss the floor, before any of the two could say anything, the flushed woman had already started speed walking, hands covering her face.
Suddenly—
“Teacher?”
A familiar voice enters the duke’s ears, her eyes zeroed down to the person sitting on the table in front.
“Aggy! Goodmorning my sunshine!”
Tribios practically runs to engulf the other woman into a warm embrace, pulling out to give an affectionate cheek kisses while gently holding the other’s face.
“I suppose you still remember your strict senior?”
Cerydra stares at the woman, last she’d seen her she was merely a young stubborn girl while Cerydra herself was still in her late teens, one important detail she always remembers was how artistically persistent the young soul was, even a bit of a mischievous side considering she was climbing trees and running on rooftops.
Now, standing right in front of her after how many years, was a beautiful sophisticated young lady, dressed in fine silky fabric that stretches over her feet, decorated with gorgeous flower motif while the sleeves puffed out a tiny bit, her hands were covered by the same fabric and the accessories she wore gave her a more elegant sparkly look.
Another memory she missed. Cerydra feels her lips form a genuine smile, soft and gentle. “Aglaea..” Her mouth speaks the name, missing the way her voice says the words. “.. you cut your hair?”
At that take, Aglaea couldn’t help but let out a little chuckle, “That’s the first thing you say after how many years, your grace?” As always, she gives a formal greeting, bending her knees and head. “Here I thought you would notice that I’m taller than you now.”
Tribios laughs at the side.
Cerydra ignores her, walking closer and offering her own greeting, torso bend and hands relaxed at her abdomen. When she rose up, Aglaea’s surprised expression welcomes her, which only made the duke chuckle at.
“I’ve missed you, Lady Goldweaver.”
Hearing the nickname she hadn’t heard for many years made Aglaea soften up, the unforgettable memories of her childhood with the duke replays in her head. So, driven by nostalgia and past joys, she didn’t know when her body had leaned forward to embrace the duke into a soft hug.
“So have I, senior.. it’s nice to see you once again.”
Quite taken a back by the gesture, Cerydra regains her composure and returns the embrace by softly patting the younger woman’s back, only when they heard a sniffle that the two broke the contact off.
“Oh.. my sweethearts, last I’ve seen you two hugging was when you were just tiny little babies.. and now you’re all grown up..!”
Cerydra and Aglaea exchanged looks, both knowing how emotional their teacher is. Fortunately to avoid any messy tears to spill, Aglaea offers them a seat at the table, before taking their own respective seat, Cerydra pulls one of the chairs for Tribios to take, nodding at the teary thank you before doing the same for Aglaea.
Conversations flowed comfortably and easy as they enjoy the presence of one another’s company, exchanging past experiences and wonderful memories in their time as being Tribios’ students. Cerydra informs Aglaea of her time here in Okhema, how she plans to expand her knowledge of the law before traveling more into the world. In turn, the duke was told that her little junior had built a tailor shop here, which was quite a popular place considering how artistic Aglaea is, weaving such gorgeous and elegant clothing for everyone to express themselves as they pleases.
Deeply immersed in catching up, they hadn’t realized that it was now nearing early noon, and Cerydra had informed Tribios that she had duties to attend to in the academy later in the day. Tribios glances at her pocket watch, seeing the clock strike 11 PM, yet she didn’t disturb the conversation of how Aglaea had met a quite sly cunning woman from Dolos who had practically barged into her shop, seeing Cerydra offer a smile and even giving out a joke made Tribios pocket the watch and lean back on her chair, tea in hand as she enjoys how carefree and childlike the duke is.
Will she be scolded? Yes, definitely, but Tribios misses that lively look on her face, so she supposes earning an earful from the duke will be worth the sight.
xxxx
“Lady Silens!”
A melodic yell made the violinist stop playing midway, clutching the wooden instrument with her fingers, she annoyingly turns to see her companion waving some sort of paper on the air.
“Cipher.. I told you stop raising your voice, it’s piercing my ears.”
Dismissing the complaint, Cipher only jogs her way towards the other woman, her grin cat like and excited. “Look at how much I saved from bargaining with that seamstress!” With a quick pull from her short pocket, she shows the remaining coins, quite many in fact, making the taller woman blink in surprise.
“.. Did you do something with Lady Hysilens’ dress, Cipher?”
Another voice spoke, appearing just behind Cipher who slightly jostled from the sudden appearance of her other companion.
“Ah! A-Ahem, of course not, Cassy! What makes you think that?” Pocketing the rest of the coin back, she shows them the paper containing a beautiful sketch drawn by the golden seamstress. “See? The dress looks stunning, as your awesome watchman, I used some of my charm to get the dress half the price.”
Ignoring Cipher’s proud cunning smirk, a gloved hand took hold of the paper. “Oh my.. This looks beautiful on you, my lady.. It seems that Lady Aglaea is really such an excellent designer.”
“Hm, let me take a look at it, Castorice.”
A beautifully drawn regency dress in a wonderful purple color enters her vision, the design and patterns are fortunately fitting that of waves in the ocean, subtly showing her love of the sea. It’s off shoulder sleeve, sweetheart neckline, and corseted waist would equally highlight her physique. To add more details, it is also shown that she would be advised to wear jewelries and a few additional accessories to really emphasize that her Majesty Phagousa had chosen her to be the dazzling pearl of the season.
.. Much to her delight.
“It is beautiful,” She says, letting out a sharp exhale. “Will I be granted the luxury to perform at the ball?” Hysilens gives the paper back with a practiced smile, walking towards her violin and tidying up the music sheet on where she had left off.
Castorice knows of her friends true heartfelt thoughts about being picked by their Majesty, it was a tradition back in Styxia that in every period of the year, someone would be granted the title of pearl of the season. Being titled as such would deemed one as the most beautiful, exquisite, and desirable “catch” of Amphoreus’ social season.
In a way, it is every Styxian women’s dream when their debut starts, for being named as pearl of the season would make their life a step higher in the social hierarchy. And to others, having a wife that the Majesty Phagousa took a liking to would just be as great as finding a diamond in the street.
But unfortunately, despite being the youngest of seven daughters, Hysilens was still glanced upon.
“Such beauty you have, young one.. pale face, dazzling eyes, and rosy lips.. oh? You’re talented in arts as well? Hmm, it seems the search is over..”
So, here she is, preparing for a ball granted by her Majesty in the palace of Kephale here in Okhema, with another bunch of married frenzy people practically begging for her hand in marriage every single day since Phagousa had made their pick. Hysilens knows she will eventually have to entertain the thought of finding a partner, but, for the sake of her own sanity and herself, she still has the rest of the season to (hopefully) meet an interesting individual.
Because she is most definitely not be marrying someone just because they fancy her title.
For now, she will continue her love of arts, playing her violin and figure skating, and none can ever take that away from her.
“Unfortunately, my lady, her Majesty sadly requested you to focus on finding a possible suitor..”
“I can do that and perform, rest assured.”
Even her majesty cannot make her stop playing.
xxx
It has been three days since the duke had arrived in Okhema, Cerydra managed her schedule in attending her royal duties, spending some time with Aglaea and Tribios, and expanding her studies in the academy quite fairly. Though fortunately some of her responsibilities as the duke wasn’t entirely time consuming, saving her more time to attend the courts in Kephale’s hometown just to see whether it’s still followed Talanton’s ruling.
As she was about to head out to the courthouse on a sunny sunday morning, Tribios had blocked her path to the door with a determined face Cerydra hadn’t seen in quite a while.
“My dear!”
Cerydra halted her steps, hands clutching her briefcase. “Pleasant morning, Lady Fatorum.. may I assist you of something..?”
“Yes, you in fact can,” Tribios grins while walking closer, “You can assist me in becoming my partner to a ball tonight.”
A ball? Cerydra thinks, dismissing the social queue as just another form for people to have their fun. She particularly doesn’t mind balls, it was nice at times, but it isn’t her cup of tea at the moment where her attention is deeply focused on her goal. Attending a party would just delay her progress.
“Unfortunately I am quite busy,” She starts, looking at the stop watch placed on her breast pocket. “You can take little goldweaver with you.”
When she made her way around the older woman, the latter childishly blocked her path once more.
“Aggy is coming of course, and so will you.. please.. dearest?”
Despite her olden age, Tribios has never let go of her quite energetic and lively personality. Unfortunately though, Cerydra was still the mature goal driven young soul she remembered years ago, even if she was an adult now, it only made the duke more determined.
“Forgive me, but aren’t you a bit old to have fun on the dance floor?”
An offended gasp, Cerydra receives a light smack on her shoulder. “Excuse you, your grace, I’m still capable of doing a dance, thank you very much.”
Cerydra couldn’t help but let out an amused smirk, “Of course you could.”
“I just want you to have some relaxing fun, dear, and with a ball granted by Phagousa happening later, it’s an opportunity, no?” Tribios explains, fixing the lapel of the younger’s suit. “Sadly for you, everybody knows of the duke’s arrival here in Okhema, so what better way to give you proper entrance?”
Cerydra stares at the pleading eyes of her once teacher, those deep blue eyes shining so bright it’s making her squint her own eyesight.
“Please? Me and Aggy would appreciate it so much.”
With a sigh, Cerydra apologizes for her work that she couldn’t do later.
“.. Alright, if it makes you feel delighted..”
As if the older woman couldn’t get more excited, she engulfs the duke into an embrace, almost making her crown fall. “It makes me so! Thank you, sweetness, I know you’ll enjoy it!”
Cerydra doubts it, but for her dear companions? Maybe she’ll try, it has been ages since she’d seen them anyways.
“Have you packed a beautiful suit with you? Shall we make a quick trip to Aggy’s shop?”
She’s almost late enough as it is, Cerydra dismisses the idea and fixed her appearance one last time. “No need, what time will you need me here?”
Tribios helps on fixing her ruffled hair. “Just close to seven would be good, we’ll be picking Aglaea on the way there.”
“Alright then, I’ll see you both later.”
Tribios didn’t let her leave without a cheek bump, much to Cerydra’s embarrassed nudge.
The night of the ball eventually came, the sky was filled with dazzling stars and the moon was shining brightly, illuminating its light despite the decorated lights in the pathway. As the carriage comes to a stop at the entrance of Kephale’s palace, Cerydra steps out when the doorman opens the carriage gate, she ignores the gasps and stares from the people around her, focusing on helping Tribios and Aglaea off the carriage.
“How did you manage to ignore these?” Aglaea says, arms hooked on the duke’s elbow.
“I grew accustomed to it.” Her answer was short, nodding her head at the greetings thrown her way as they entered the palace hall. Inside was beautifully decorated with flowers, curtains, and dimmed by a glow of the bright gorgeous chandelier on the ceiling. The ballroom was exceptionally lively, with many people mingling with one another for a dance or at the side enjoying the music being played at the stage.
“Lady Aglaea! Lady Tribios!”
A lively manly voice made the three come to a stop, then a tall well-built man with messy white hair comes in view. He was dressed in a dashing white suit and grey coat, golden accents decorating his frame.
“Oh, Lord Phainon, it’s wonderful to see you.” Aglaea greets back at the young man, who eventually finds the gaze of cyan eyes analyzing him.
Phainon immediately notices the flame like crown and sharp face, he’d heard the rumor of a duke coming in the city, he’d seen that face in a magazine cover a few days back, he recognized that crown.
“Let me introduce you to—“
“Y-Your grace!” Phainon interrupts without intending to, dropping his lively tone as he bows in proper curtesy. “I apologize for my behavior..”
“Your grace, this is Lord Phainon of Aedes Elysiae, an aspiring knight devoted to his Majesty Kephale.” Aglaea introduces him whilst Tribios gestures for the man to stand up, a smile on her lips.
Cerydra stares at his face, noticing a slight tattoo of a sun hidden deep in his neck. “Pleasure to meet you.” She places her hand on her abdomen to give a respectful bow, noting how the man panics upon seeing a royal blood bow down.
“Y-Yes, ahem, would you like a tour of the palace, your grace?” He tries to compose himself, fixing his posture in between.
“I appreciate the offer, Lord Phainon, but I think I’ll do the exploring on my own.”
“The duke likes to do her little investigation on her own account.” Tribios says matter of factly, earning a fond smile from Aglaea and a confused one from Phainon.
“You’re making me look like a child.”
Ignoring the stare from the duke, Tribios hooked her arm around her elbow and nudged her forward the second she hears a new round of dance is starting. “Excuse us, I need to take this duke into a waltz, see if she still remembers the steps.” With a wink to Aglaea and Phainon, Tribios dragged the embarrassed duke onto the dance floor.
As the song begins to play, Cerydra tries to remember the steps she’d learn from her teacher, sometimes missing a step or two.
“You’re rusty, deary.”
Cerydra smiles seeing the joy from the older woman, “I hadn’t done this in a while, Lady Fatorum, spare me.”
Soon after, Aglaea had become her dance partner when they switched, Tribios now dancing with a very happy Phainon.
“It’s quite a sight having to lower my head a bit to look at you, senior.” Aglaea jokes as she places her hands onto the duke’s shoulders, her own gentle smile adoring her face as they try to catch up with the rhythm.
“No matter, you’re still the little mischievous goldweaver in my eyes.” Cerydra had to tip her toes to spin her junior, causing the latter to let out a little giggle.
As their dance comes to an end, Tribios had excused herself to mingle with some older ladies at the buffet area. Meanwhile Aglaea tries to hook Cerydra to meet a few of her friends, which the duke respectfully declined, so the blonde woman left together with Phainon, who offered Cerydra one last time if he could be of assistance. Which the duke also respectfully declined the second time, saying she’ll do it on her own.
So, separated from her companions for a while, the duke of Hyperborea tries to enjoy the rest of the night by admiring the palace. Cerydra desperately tries to maintain her cool because ever since the dance ended, she had been approached left and right by crazy mothers literally shoving their daughters into her face.
“Your Grace! Please let me introduce you to..”
“My, my eyes didn’t deceive me, it really is the duke of Hyperborea!”
“A dance? My Lord?”
“Oh, your grace, you look so handsome in your suit..”
“Your grace, my daughter here is the..”
And of course, as if the night couldn’t get worse..
“Everyone! I would like to acknowledge the great presence of one of Hyperborea’s ambitious, most talented duke! Cerydra Borealis!”
Applaud echoes in her ears, with a robotic smile, she puts on a show of curtesy and waves at the crowd, giving out a thank you with a forced out charming bow. Her ears pierced at the squeals and screams, making her head spin at the amount of suffocating perfume circling her the second the music starts playing again.
This time, instead of the usual melody of different instruments playing at once, it was only the beautiful strung of a violin. The crowd stills, the room quiets a bit, and for Cerydra, the sound brought her to a sudden peaceful ease, she couldn’t see the stage, couldn’t see the person playing, yet her body relaxes when it hears the tune.
For a brief moment, she considers on excusing herself and walking towards the stage to hear more of the music, until she remembers that no matter where she’d placed herself, there will always be someone trying to be-wed themselves to her.
“Excuse me, ladies, it seems that I had forgotten something.”
So in desperate effort to ease herself elsewhere, she ignores the saddened voices calling out to her, some even daring to try and grip her arm to make her stay. Cerydra had enough of socializing, this had been suffocating her to an extent, she’s afraid the longer she’ll stay, something will eventually snap.
And she’s sure enough she will not be creating any dramas that will intervene with her work. Stuff like those are childish and immature as it is.
She leaves the ballroom, walking outside of the palace with quicken steps. The microphone talks about a name, something about a beautiful pearl that is catch of the season, whatever that is. Cerydra fortunately finds her way into the palace’s garden, calming down when she sees that she’s the only soul in sight.
With only the presence of the moon, she circles around the fountain and eventually sat at the marbled surface, loosening the cravat around her neck for some air. Slowly, she slides her hands underneath her vest pocket to pull out a pack of cigarettes, lighting one up and taking a much needed inhale. Smoking is a habit of hers that is mainly a secret, she’ll surely get scolded by Tribios for this, but her mind desperately needs to calm itself down, a way to release some smoke.
The sounds of faint music playing, the voices of the crowd at the distance, the flowing water in the fountain, and the slight buzzing of the crickets nearby, Cerydra could finally feel at ease as she releases a puff of smoke.
Free from the noises of marriage, and free from the overwhelming pressure to settle down.
“.. What’s with these damn people throwing their whole life into marriage..”
“Tell me about it.”
A voice made Cerydra stop inhaling midway, coughing as she feels the smoke punch her nostrils. Startled by another disturbance, she quickly let go of the cig and stomped it with her boot, fanning her hands to try and get rid of the smoke in the air.
“Relax yourself, I couldn’t care less of you puffing.”
Cerydra covers her cough, turning her body to see a woman dressed in a beautiful purple dress just at the other side of the fountain. Her back was facing Cerydra, the woman’s hair up in a styled gorgeous bun adorned with shiny pearls, she seems to be also sitting down in the fountain, which made the duke relax a bit.
Only then when she sees the woman raise her glove hand that holds a glass of red wine that Cerydra manages to sit back down. But she hesitated to take another roll of cigarette.
“May I ask why a lady such as yourself doing here?” Her own voice says, feeling her mind calm down just as before.
“I am in dire need to get away from the suffocation.”
The woman answers with a sip of her wine, Cerydra could hear how she set the glass on the marble surface, creating a slight noise, her head turns just in time to see the lady return her gaze in front.
“Hm, so is I,” It is only then that she gets another cigarette as the woman took another sip herself. This time when she puff out the smoke, she mindlessly fanned her hand to maybe not make the woman smell the cigarette, some people don’t really fancy the smoke. “I suppose I can share my peaceful night with a stranger.” She gives an amused remark, hearing a melodic chuckle from the other side.
“You mentioned earlier the bad side of marriage?”
The woman questioned, Cerydra didn’t mind giving out an answer.
“Yes, I just find it odd how.. people would just settle down with someone they barely known of, left and right, meaningless introductions, trying to make me put a ring in their finger.” She ran her hands through her hair, lit cigarette in between her fingers as she let the smoke linger to her. “.. Just because of one’s status, they’re enough with it.. how absurd is that? But unfortunately, pride is forever clouding our minds, we people are a bunch of power hungry animals, no matter how we deny it.”
“.. Fancy words, are you a lover of knowledge, dear stranger?”
With a fun tone in the woman’s voice, the duke could tell that she was getting tipsy from the wine. Also, Cerydra notes how she hadn’t been asked about her title, did this woman not know of her?
If so, then it was a breath of fresh air.
“Maybe,” She indulges, inhaling another puff, “How about you, my lady? Your share of the take? You did agreed to mine earlier as well.”
“Oh I so did, ever since I was.. practically announced as some.. catch of the season..! Honestly, what am I? A fish? Everywhere I go is just people announcing their plan to make me their wife, and I am sure enough they’ll make me stop doing my arts because why would a wife do work? Right?”
Cerydra listens, now knowing what the speaker was announcing about earlier. True enough, their situations were quite similar, making her open her mind at the woman’s slight drunken rambling.
“I mean, yes, I do want to find love, but it’s just.. it seems people only wants me for the title given to me,” The tipsy lady sadly says, her voice dropping an octave lower, “.. and not me as an individual..”
When Cerydra was about of offer her words that she wishes wouldn’t be delivered as awkward considering her lack of expertise in this scenario, the woman cuts her off with an apology.
“I’m sorry, I’m blabbering my heart out to a stranger.. I’m just tired of these bashful suitors.”
“No need for apologies, I did just open mine. It’s fair.”
Then, silence, safe for the noises around them, the duke lets it stretch a bit, thankful that it wasn’t awkward or heavy type of silence. After a while, her mind subconsciously begins to think of a way for a (fortunately) peaceful solution to their problem. Cerydra even lets out an amused scoff at the thought as she exhale the last smoke, fanning it away and stomping the cigarette to die it out.
“It seems the night is getting colder.”
She hears the woman say, Cerydra looks back to see the glass now empty.
“I’m afraid I have to go back and endure those suitors, how beastly some may be..”
She hears the woman’s heels make contact on the grass, her back still facing the duke.
“Well then, it was nice talking to you, dear stranger—“
The woman paused the second she decided to turn around and see whose she had been exchanging words to, only to be surprised to see a familiar face.
“Oh.. Your grace, it’s you..”
Cerydra stills midway through her, eyes glinting in hidden disappointment. “You know of me?”
“Of course, who wouldn’t?”
Her shoulders lowers at the woman’s answer, the solution she suddenly thought of now deeming to fail.
“Though I have to give it to you, I never thought a duke may let a random lady express herself, even if that lady didn’t know she was speaking to a royalty.”
Cerydra feels her eyebrows knit, head titling at the side in confusion. “Do you find me intimidating?”
The lady immediately panics, walking closer and now face to face with the duke, she ignores her mind thinking about the duke’s quite adorable height. “Oh no, your grace, I-I just thought you’ll be offended by me calling you a mere stranger, is all..”
“Oh? No, I wasn’t.”
“That’s good.. anyways, I’ll get going now then, your grace. I hope you’ll have a relaxing night—“
“A moment.”
The woman visibly stills, clutching the empty wine glass bottle dearly. “Yes..?”
Cerydra thinks this.. out of character solution she thought of may be not a proper way, maybe it’ll only create unnecessary work for her. But thinking about the constant approach of young ladies and their mothers everywhere she go, she thinks that maybe.. this plan is worth the shot to take. She doesn’t have a thing to lose anyways, and it could also help the tipsy woman standing quite nervous in front of her.
“Perhaps there is an answer of our collective situation about partners,” She begins, approaching the woman a step closer, now noticing the woman’s indigo eyes staring at her own ones in slight confusion. It is then that Cerydra sees her whole silhouette, she couldn’t help but think of a compliment in her mind.
Her eyes went back to those beautiful indigos, preparing her tongue to let out the words. “We can pretend to form an attachment.” She sees the slight surprise in those eyes, “With you on my arm, the world will believe I have finally found my duchess.. every presumptuous mother and persistent daughter will leave me alone.”
“.. What’s in it for me..?”
“You desire for a genuine love, yes?” Seeing the taller woman nod, she continues. “Then every suitor who really fancies you will fight for your hand, you must know people are true to their feelings if they don’t let go of somebody they love just because someone, particularly a duke, is interested in them.”
“You presume everyone will—“
“I presume they’ll deem us to be precisely what we are.. Me, unavailable. You, desirable.” The duke interrupts, yet her voice wasn’t demanding, more of like a wager for the lady whether she’ll accept it or not.
“A fake courtship.. by the duke, and the renowned pearl of the season.. This is an absurd plan, your grace..”
“Maybe, some parts of me find it quite brilliant, provided that we do not wish to marry one another, considering I am not looking for a partner.. whatever should we have to lose?”
Cerydra scoffs a chuckle at the woman’s expression, remaining a respectful distance as she nods her head. “What do you say? I’ll get my peace, you’ll get your genuine happily ever after.” Then, she extends her hand, waiting for the lady to shake it, or to decline it.
“Answer it with your heart, don’t think just because I am a duke I’ll hold you against your will.” Cyan eyes stares intently at those indigos, seeing a glint of doubt.
A few seconds of silence, Cerydra didn’t let her hand waver as time ticks, patiently waiting for whatever the lady’s answer may be. If she ever declines, at least she tries to offer the solution in mind, she won’t ever be mad at her just because she couldn’t get it her way.
“.. Fine.”
A quite hard handshake shook her hand, Cerydra’s own gloved fingers held onto another pair.
“Just as you know, just because you’re a duke, I will not be treating you like royalty if we ever do this.. agreement. I would like it be just your normal courtship.”
Cerydra gives a last firm shake before fixing her hold of the lady’s hand. “Of course, I would personally prefer it that way.” She tips her head, bends her knees a bit, and gives the woman’s palm a respectful hold.
“I am delighted to play this little game with you, lady..”
Right, she hasn’t ask for her name.
“You’re already failing this courtship for not asking a ladys name first thing, you know.”
Cerydra embarrassingly clears her throat, seeing the woman give her a roll of her eyes.
“Hysilens Nereidis, but I preferred to be called by my name.”
A familiar last name, she remembers a noble family in Styxia who lived by that name. Nevertheless, Cerydra nods her head. “Beautiful name, it’s nice to meet you, Lady Hysilens.”
Hysilens..
Her tongue rolls out the words, hearing her own voice says the name. She find it quite nice.
As the party continues on, the crowd was suddenly turn into a surprise circus upon seeing the two most dazzling people to be wed to holding one another’s hands as the pair made their way through the ballroom. Whispers from aristocrats, sad whines from mothers and daughters, annoyed groans from suitors, everybody had paused their breaths the second the duke and pearl positioned themselves at the center of the stage.
“Stare into my eyes.”
As the music starts, the pair bows down.
“If this is to work.. we must appear madly in love.”
Cerydra searches for Hysilens’ eyes before placing her hand on her waist, feeling the latter also rest her own at the former’s shoulder, their other hand holding one another’s.
“I haven’t been madly in love with someone before.”
“Hm, so have I.”
Then, they move to the rhythm, surprising Hysilens a bit before gaining her composure and relaxing her body to move along with the familiar dance. Hysilens could pin point that the duke was rusty a bit, making her let out a smile, she meets Cerydra’s eyes and couldn’t resist to laugh seeing the look of, “Please don’t mention my dancing.” written all over her face.
This agreement maybe childish, or perhaps even a waste of time, but the two souls who shook on it didn’t really have anything to lose. One in dire need of peaceful work, and one needing a genuine loving partner.
Cerydra maybe need to squeeze in a time of courting the lady, doing all those romantic gestures for the public to see. Hopefully she’ll do quite well despite having no prior experience.. how hard can it be?
Hysilens could not only see if anyone will fight for her hand, but also focus more on her arts if Phagousa sees a duke is interested in their pick, maybe then they’ll stop sending letters if Hysilens is already to be wed to.
So, a grand, romantic facade to fool society. As if Cerydra hadn’t experienced one before.