Madam Valliere, content from the ordeal, directed a short look at Flare who, with a slight gesture, signified that he agreed. The training went on, and Lita's mother took her tea, her thoughts very probably still on the recent visit, Sylana's and the threat it was to her meticulously made-up world.
Lita's training didn't finish until the afternoon had almost turned into evening, but she was already lost in thoughts.
What was that her mother kept secret? What was the inheritance she was supposed to carry on? And, most importantly, how much would she eventually have to suffer to guard those she cherished?
On with the day and Lita's training, her body was more and more fatigued and the feeling of a win was never going to let her down. Flare made her do the same practice one after another till Lita was not even able to bring her sword up. Magic with sword playing was their main exercise.
At last, Flare lifted her hand signaling that the session was over.
"That's it for today."
Lita dropped down on her knees breathing heavily. Her hands were shaking from the effort but there was a quiet feeling of satisfaction mixed with her tiredness. She was improving, becoming a bigger and stronger person. Still, she was aware of the fact that lessons were still remaining.
Madam Valliere rose from her seat when she finished her tea and walked to her daughter. Although her face was still emotionless she touched Lita's shoulder.
"Today you were a good girl,"
her mother spoke quietly, yet the distant tone of Lita's mother, which she was so accustomed to, was still present.
"But there is more to come. Get ready."
Before Lita could say anything, the garden's atmosphere changed. A cold sensation moved down her spine as if something dark was creeping in. Flare realized it as well and immediately took a position in front of Lita, ready for a fight.
There was a very quiet sound, like a soft magical humming that came from afar and spread all over the mansion grounds. A dark figure, a messenger, wrapped in dark robes, their face obscured.
"Lady Valliere,"
the voice of the messenger called out, sounding very hollow and echoing as they were coming closer.
"A message from Sylana."
Madam Valliere's face instantly turned dark and her eyes slanted at the very mention of Sylana. She was anticipating something like this but not so quickly.
The messenger moved ahead and handed out a black envelope which had a wax seal on it.
"She wants a meeting in private. Tonight."
Madam Valliere took the letter without any second thought. She took a look at the seal and instantly recognized it. A letter from Sylana was never merely a simple invitation. It was a proclamation of her next move.
"Inform her that I will be there,"
Madam Valliere answered, her tone being very cool and calculated.
The messenger did a bow, then blended back into the darkness, leaving behind the same ghostly stillness.