By The Skies

by J E Mueller

  I snorted. “If by a fun trip home you mean a countdown until I come back, then yes. I am wonderfully prepared.”

  “Excellent!” Delmar laughed. “I am equally certain my parents are having a conniption over this event and will make my existence at home tiring and stressful.”

  “Oh, no, that’s not the problem at all.” I gave a small laugh. “Mother wouldn’t believe someone is directly after me anyway, so that is all well and good. She’ll have a few opinions to go on a tirade about and then easily move on since the situation does nothing to benefit anyone within the family. Since no one died the whole situation swept under the rug. Instead, it will be normal conversations, tiring bouts of arguments, and stressful existence -nothing exciting.”

  Delmar gave another laugh as he grabbed a forkful of food. “I see nothing has changed. Glad we’re looking forward to this.”

  “You’ll both be fine.” Aylum nudged his friend with his elbow.

  “But you get to have the real fun,” Delmar retorted, cutting into his hotcakes.

  “I don’t know how this is supposed to be fun.” Aylum raised an eyebrow.

  Delmar dropped his voice. “You get to be a dragon, hunting down a rogue dragon. Maybe even find out where this plot started. I get to listen to lectures and how I’ll be taking over things for the family someday. Don’t tell me you’re not going to enjoy some part of your plans.”

  Aylum chuckled. “Okay, so my plans are a bit more fun than yours.”

  “Exactly my point.” Delmar pointed his fork at Aylum. “You better come back with some good stories.”

  As they bantered I looked over at Soleia. “Think it’ll be a fun adventure?”

  She shrugged, seeming much more indifferent. “Not entirely sure. It’ll be fun to make him squirm, but it won’t be fun if I get nothing out of him. I did already call the first punch so at least I will have that much fun.”

  “Ever done something like this before?” I asked curiously. She seemed too calm about all of this.

  “Not exactly. I’ve practiced tracking before and can track easily for long distances. Essentially I have all the training but none of the application. Not that I need it to beat the snot out of an idiot.” Soleia stabbed her food for emphasis.

  “I don’t doubt that. I’m surprised you let them get away.” I tried to calmly cut into my food instead of murder it like Soleia was. This table didn’t need to be as heated as it could get.

  “Only because I wasn’t sure how you were faring.” Soleia shrugged. “That won’t be a problem this time around. You’ll be safe, maybe irritated, but safe.”

  “Depends on how much a certain someone brings up this Promised. She is not going to like this duel one bit.” I sighed, rubbing my temples as I chewed my food.

  “She doesn’t need to like it. It’s legal and she can shut it.” Soleia gave a toothy grin. “Or she’ll just end up a little lost while it goes on so there are no distractions.”

  I laughed. “Hopefully it won’t come to that.” I shook my head, not actually opposed to the idea. “You really don’t need to threaten everyone who annoys me.” I only half meant my words.

  “What’s the point of being able to if you never let me?” She pouted, giving her best impression of a sweet and innocent puppy.

  “Uh-huh.” I nudged her lightly as I went back to eating my food.

  As we ate and talked, I watched the slowly emptying dining hall. I was in no rush to head home, though I was sure my carriage was waiting. They got paid the same whether it took me an extra moment or not.

  “You’re stalling,” Soleia finally stated, unsurprised.

  “I am in no rush, the same as every break,” I replied, eating my last bite of food.

  “Stalling,” Soleia sang with a smirk. “As you do with every family break.”

  “You’re welcome to come join me.” I returned the smirk.

  “Oh look, I have a valid reason not to this time.” Soleia laughed, not liking my mother even a fragment. She had stayed with me on break once, and that was once too many for her.

  “One visit and you’re already scared to come back.” I stretched out in my chair, hoping to eat up as much time as I could.

  “Not scared, just not foolish enough to willingly do that again.” She snorted.

  “Is it that bad?” Aylum cocked his head to the side, eyes filling with concern.

  “It’s not the end of the world. More like having a sharp thorn in your side you’re not allowed to remove for hours at a time.” I shrugged.

  “There are less pleasant teachers here, but we only see them for an hour a day.” Soleia shrugged. “A thorn is a great way to put it.”

  “It’ll be fine.” I shrugged. “I guess we should get going. They will eventually request we leave.”

  “Really?” Aylum looked surprised.

  “Kareia is the queen at pushing that limit.” Soleia laughed.

  “I’ve never tried.” Delmar shrugged. “I wouldn’t doubt it though. They’d like to start their vacation from us as well.”

  We got up and started making our way out. I trailed slightly behind Soleia and Delmar, Aylum walking by my side. As we entered the hall, Aylum took my hand in his, and I felt magic wash over me, making us invisible. For a moment he pulled me into a tight hug.

  “I’ll miss you too,” I whispered.

  “Stay safe.” Aylum leaned forward and kissed me. My heart fluttered, butterflies frantic against my ribs. What if someone bumped into us? Would they think they hit the wall or would the illusion fall? Did I care? After a tense night, I wanted nothing more than this moment to last.

  After what felt like too short a time we moved apart. “I will. You too.”

  “Promise.”

  I hated getting in the carriage and leaving all my friends. It was hard to push the fact I was leaving behind those who showed they cared about me. The way home was long and quiet. I enjoyed the peace and managed to get almost completely through a novel before the gates of Idleworth were in sight.

  Once on the property I shoved it into my bag, curious to see if any news had really reached home. The moment I set foot outside the carriage, Grisham was there to greet me.

  He bowed as he stated, “Your mother is in the prayer room. She’ll be expecting you immediately.”

  I handed off my school bag and headed in, knowing it wasn’t a request. It didn’t tell me anything though, Mother normally summoned me right away. I shook my head and glanced at my home as I walked.

  The gray, three story, stone building was large, as one expected from someone of higher class. A tower guarded by grotesque gargoyles was toward the left side, housing the bulk of our library.

  To the right I could easily see the large dark wood porch wrapping around the building. Part of the side overlooked the cliff we were on. Viney flowers pooled down the farthest side, vanishing past the rails into the abyss below.

  The forest was so pretty this time of year. The oranges, reds, and greens slowly shifting as the season passed made me miss home. This was the only time of year I ever really wanted to be here. Walking through the solitude of the woods was always a blessing, but that was for later. For now, the imposing steps called me forward. It was time to see mother.

  When I reached the open doorway to the prayer room I saw her kneeling on a cushion in front of a statue of the Four. In the center was a shape like a sun—it’s golden surface appearing to catch flame in the light. Surrounding it were the four dragons of legend.

  While the statue itself was solid gold, the dragons were carefully painted, catching the eye just as easily as the brilliant gold reflection. One representing each of the primary elements. Mother prayed to them several times daily, usually after each meal. I wondered what she could continuously have to pray for, but it wasn’t worth the discussion to ask.

  I hesitated for a moment before going to her side and kneeling down on an empty cushion as well. I decided to wait for her to talk, knowing too well not to interrupt her prayer. T
he silence was welcome, and I enjoyed the few moments of peace between us.

  “I’ve heard some troubling things about you Kareia,” Mother finally stated.

  I had no idea which thing she could be referring to. “I am sorry to hear that. I have been following all the school guidelines so I am unsure where I’ve stepped out of place.” It was close enough to the truth. I hadn’t been caught doing anything wrong at least.

  “You are spending a lot of time around men when you are Promised.” She gave me a sidelong glare as she continued. “And the school has sent word that you tried to play hero instead of letting the men figure out what was amiss last night.”

  Ah. Approaching this was worse than approaching a cobra trapped in a corner. Still, I had no choice but to respond. “I have been spending a lot of time in appropriate groups. They are mixed groups, yes, but all are well aware I am Promised.” They were also helping me to break that, but I wasn’t going to touch that subject right now.

  “Imagine how that must look? Do you think Eastyn will even still want you if you are spending so much time with other men!” The outrage in her voice went from cold steel to full falsetto.

  I took a calming breath. “I am sure if we are meant to be, he would understand it’s good to be social. It’ll look great for his standing for me to be so well connected.” I hoped the positive spin would lighten the mood.

  Mother paused, the gears clearly turning. She was all about connections after all. “Best to lessen your time with the men. Connections are good, but too much time makes it look different. It gets noticed. Negatively.” Her words were harsh, but the full onslaught of venom was gone.

  This was something I could work much more easily with. “I can understand your point. I will do my best to keep it class and study based. One does not want to give the wrong impression.”

  Mother nodded, seemingly satisfied. “They’ll be visiting for dinner tonight. Wash up and get ready.” She rose without another word and left the room.

  I stayed for a moment longer, my thoughts trying to piece themselves back together. I did not want to deal with this mess. I’d rather look for the dragon than have to meet with the Lari and his son. Sighing loudly, I rose to my feet and turned to see my maid standing in the doorway looking as thrilled as I was.

  “It sounds like we have some work to do,” I stated as I walked past her.

  “Yes, miss. It would appear your mother has prepared a lavish dinner for this gathering.” Her voice was soft, but she was far from timid.

  “Do you have any other fun facts for me Elsie?” I asked curiously as we headed toward my room.

  “Nothing of note. We just found out they were coming yesterday. Your father should be returning with them.”

  That was useful. So father wasn’t home. I had hoped to tell him about the duel first. I wasn’t about to make a scene over dinner, but I already hated feigning interest.

  “Elsie, can you keep a secret?” I asked as we shut ourselves in my room.

  “Of course not.” She cast me a crooked smile before motioning to my bed. “These are the dresses your mother says you may choose from.”

  I glanced over at the choices. They were far too over the top for me. Plenty of lace and beads -enough to choke me to death. “I think I’ll soak as I ponder over these wonderful choices.” I didn’t try to hide the sarcasm. Instead I wove my way to my bureau and pulled out a mild relaxing potion and downed it. I was certain I’d be needing a few today.

  “What is this thing you wish for me to keep secret?” Elsie cast me a quizzical smile as she moved to my bathroom to ready the tub.

  “You’ve already said you can’t keep a secret.” I laughed as I went over to the dresses and tossed my least favorite option back in the closet.

  “Like that has ever mattered.” She laughed, poking her head back into the room. “Well, out with it already. We haven’t got all night.”

  “I wish we did,” I grumbled, finally deciding on the powder blue gown instead of waiting to make a choice. “Secret?” I asked, the word coming out as a spell.

  “Secret,” Elsie agreed. The spell wrapped around her.

  “I’m going to challenge my Promised to a duel. Not sure when, but I am getting out of this mess.”

  Elsie looked surprised. “But miss, you’re all white magic. How can you duel? I’ve no doubt you have incredible powers, but they aren’t the right ones.”

  “I’ve learned a few tricks.” I let a confident smirk spread across my face. “But, those are for another time. When do you think would be the best moment to challenge him?”

  Elsie bit her bottom lip as she thought. “Send it off as a letter when he leaves. I could give it to the coachman before they set off with instructions to give it to the young master once they’ve reached home.”

  “Perfection. That will quell the drama on that end. Mother won’t take it well either but I don’t plan on her learning about this until I’m about to head back to school.”

  “That’s likely for the best. She will certainly have your head on a pike once she finds out.” Elsie shook her head, not bothering to hide the facts. The staff knew it was best to just avoid Mother and did so fairly easily. “Your bath is ready, miss.”

  “Thank you.” I smiled and dropped the magic. Having a basic plan was enough to let me relax into the tub. Tonight was going to be an adventure I wanted no part in.

  Chapter Fourteen

  I found myself on the top floor of the tower, sitting at the window seat and watching the road for signs of Father’s arrival. I wasn’t looking forward to the additional company but it was only a short visit -they would be leaving after breakfast tomorrow. The thought made me cringe but at least I could easily lock myself away from them after an appropriate amount of time and I had the excuse of traveling on my side. Everything would be fine.

  Or so I kept telling myself.

  The letter announcing an end to the engagement and scheduling the duel for the beginning of winter break was done. Elsie loved it but also hated that she was magically sworn to secrecy. It was probably the best gossip she had in months. Truth be told, little would top that. While duels were legal and perfectly fine to demand, hardly any seemed to occur.

  I fiddled with the necklaces I had tucked under my dress. The pendants from Soleia and Aylum brought me comfort. Tonight would soon be a memory. This whole Promised problem would join the flow of memories worth forgetting.

  In the distance, I could see a carriage coming down the path. Only for a few hours I reminded myself. I could have some fun working with potions and my magic tomorrow as a treat, and as a way to avoid those annoying headaches. With a sigh, I slowly headed downstairs and outside. The air was cold and crisp today, but the carriage was already pulling up as mother stepped outside to join me. It would only be a few more moments of chilly discomfort.

  Father exited the carriage first and made his way to us. He kissed Mother on the cheek before pulling me into a tight hug.

  “My Kareia! How have you been?”

  I hugged him tightly back. “Good. I’ve missed you.”

  Father stepped back and motioned to our guests who were walking up the steps. “I’m sure you remember the Lari, Percival Markeley, but it has been several years since you’ve seen Eastyn.”

  I curtsied and nodded. “It’s nice to see you both again.”

  Eastyn hadn’t changed much. His shoulders had filled out some, even if his manners did not, and his eyes still looked the same sandy brown. I was surprised his face looked sharper, his nose a little crooked as if it had healed wrong after a fight. That was something I could fix, but I had zero desire to touch his face.

  The Lari tilted his head in my direction, “It’s wonderful to see you. You’re growing into a fine lady.”

  His son offered out his hand and I had to mask a cringe as I accepted it, giving Eastyn an opportunity to kiss the back of my hand. “It has been far too long.”

  I offered a pleasant smile, not caring if it looked
forced. “Please come inside, I’m sure everyone is tired from their journey.” I carefully wiped my hand on the back of my dress.

  Mother happily led the way in as she inquired how their trip went and if the meeting they were in was productive. I mostly ignored the answers. They were all so generic and dull. Of course, the trip went well. It was a productive meeting but they did not accomplish all they set out to do. It was almost too easy to know what words everyone was going to use.

  Still, it was one step closer to bed which meant they would be out of my hair soon. Hopefully, they wouldn’t stay past breakfast. By the dragons, they better not stay through lunch. The Four help me now.

  We sat around the table, much to my dismay my Promised sat next to me. Not only did it completely unbalance the table aesthetically but I wanted nothing to do with him.

  “How are your studies going?” he asked curiously as we waited for food to be brought out.

  “Very well, thank you.” I smiled, hoping to keep things as light and basic as I could. “And how are yours going?”

  “Dull. I swear Worthton Academy has nothing new to teach me. I was curious though, I write to you often but rarely seem to get a response. Are you getting all my letters?” Eastyn asked with a raised eyebrow, his voice etched with underlying anger.

  “I am. I wish I could find more time to write, but school is less dull for me and I find I must frequently study. There is still so much to learn.” I hoped that would be a suitable reply. After all, that was entirely the point of going to a prestigious school.

  He laughed. “Oh, I wouldn’t worry about that. What are you going to need any of that for anyway? As my wife, your biggest worry will be keeping the estate well run. I doubt you’re learning any of that.” Eastyn shook his head at me.

  I bit back the comment I wanted to make. Education was too important to me. Enhancing my magic and pushing it to the limits meant the world to me, and this fool just would not understand. “There are many different things to learn. We had a focus week on different herbs and plants. Healing and potions have plenty of value in many different aspects of life.”