Flora woke up that morning feeling groggy and slow. It was the first time she woke up knowing exactly where she was and what day it was. She was not prepared.
Well, she was physically prepared, a bag full of clothes and food resting at the foot of her bed, but she wasn't emotionally prepared. She knew that she had most of the two weeks to think of what to say to her father, but the whole thing seemed so daunting the closer it got.
Taking a deep breath and pulling herself out of bed, Flora got ready for the day. Her mind was buzzing with thoughts and emotions, and she had to force herself to slow down and make sure she got everything done. I'd probably leave without my pants if I didn't pay attention. She thought bitterly as she changed into one of the new sets of clothes that Esther - or Erick? - had bought for her. She still felt like they were far too much, but she brushed that aside as she and Spot made their way out for the day. This time though, she was unable to avoid the summons to join for breakfast.
A young servant had come up to Flora as she was leaving her apartment and handed Flora a letter with a low bow. Without saying anything, Flora took the letter with a quizzical expression before seeing the King's seal. She turned to thank the girl but she had already left. Opening the letter, she found a very similar message to the first time she was asked to join them.
I can't really say no, but that means leaving Spot here… Flora didn't like the thought of leaving the dog alone for who knows how long, but was very certain that it was not appropriate to bring a dog to breakfast. Most likely anyway.
Leaving Spot in the bathroom, and making sure to close the doors to the rest of the place, Flora quickly made her way to the dining hall for breakfast. When she arrived, she found it to be much more full than last time. King Erick was seated at the head of the table as always, with Dante to his right as usual. Accompanying them were Erick's three sisters and aunt, Leon, and a number of other people Flora could not recognize. She assumed that the Crops Master and Game Master were seated among them, but there were many more people than that seated around the table.
To her dismay, the only seat left was between Esther and King Erick himself. The gods only know why that was, and Flora tried to hide her anxiety behind a polite smile and bow as she made her way to her seat. She couldn't quite read Erick's emotions, as he had his impassive mask on, but Esther seemed almost delighted to have Flora there. Erick's Aunt Martha gave her a withering glare as she sat down, and all she could do was return an apologetic smile. This feels odd… Flora didn't say anything as breakfast was almost ready and most of the guests were already in conversation.
Flora shifted in her seat, trying not to look uncomfortable but struggled to hide her anxiety. What do they expect of me? Why did they seat me here of all places? They had to have known, right? Flora' thoughts were interrupted by King Erick's piercing stare. She gave him a wry smile, and he returned an almost apologetic look. It looked as if he were going to say something when the servant brought out the food.
Brought in on silver platters was steaming hot food that included various breads and pastries, fresh cut meats, and fruits drizzled with what Flora assumed was sugar. It was more decadent than her first breakfast here, and was probably meant to impress the many people seated here. They have to be nobles and lords, they look too well dressed not to be. Flora almost felt bad for the royal family, having to serve such a grand breakfast to keep their visiting nobility appeased. Almost. Another part of her was very glad to be one of those invited. Until she was dragged into a conversation.
"Flora," Esther turned to Flora with a pleasant tone. "Are you excited for your upcoming travels?" The question seemed innocent enough, but Flora knew that if she said anything other than 'yes' it could mean trouble. Quickly swallowing her food, Flora replied.
"Of course, it'll be my first time but I'm very glad to be able to see the whole kingdom. Even if it is for work." She added with a laugh, genuinely anticipating the many views of the kingdom she would be able to see. From the open fields, to the shrouded forests, and the base of the mountains that made up the kingdom of Germania, Flora was excited to see it all. Esther laughed, and was more harsh than the soft or quiet laugh Flora had expected. It felt more genuine.
"I suppose that's true enough. I hope your work is treating you well?" Flora caught the quick glance Esther gave to Erick, and Flora had to stop herself from turning around to see his response.
"It's certainly kept me busy." Flora started, making sure to pick her words carefully. She was aware of Lady Martha not so subtly listening to their conversation. "But I am enjoying it." Flora smiled, doing her best not to look Lady Martha in the eye. Esther nodded with a smile and returned to her breakfast. Flora thought that was the end of it until Dante said something.
"I'm sure you're looking forward to the countryside and all, but what about the company?" Dante gave Flora the most sly grin she had ever seen, and couldn't hide the look of shock she gave him. She also couldn't help but notice the death-wielding glare that King Erick gave him. Dante raised his hands in surrender. "Alright alright! Can't blame a guy for being interested, that's all." Dante was still smirking but had at least relented.
"Yes, I can." King Erick pointed his fork at Dante for emphasis before returning to his own food. Esther rolled her eyes and gave Dante a look that caused him to look more sheepish than he already did.
Breakfast slowly continued like that, Flora being asked small questions that she had to answer with partially sincere and partially appeasing responses. King Erick remained quiet for the most part, but Flora noted that he often looked at her as if he were assessing her. Her anxiety threatened to bubble over as her chest tightened and her head felt heavier. She took her time with her breakfast, steadying her breath and taking in the tastes of the food as she staved off her rising emotions.
Before long, breakfast was over, and the servants were cleaning up the empty plates and scooping away the scraps of food. Flora took a note of what was left that she could snag away for Spot. The thought of him made her worry - bot - bot - both about him as well as the state of her bathroom.
Starting to excuse herself, when Flora felt a hand reach out to her. Lady Esther gently placed her hand on Flora's elbow, and Flora started before realizing that the three sisters were also getting up to leave.
"Come with us, I've got one last thing for you." Esther said quietly, and Flora's stomach coiled in a mix of fear and excitement. Flora followed the girls out of the dining hall and to the other side of the castle, up to the third floor. Flora had not come this way often, the only time was when she visited Erick in his chambers. This must be where they room the royals. Flora thought nervously as she followed the sisters who were now burbling with excitement.
"Okay, close your eyes!" The youngest, Alice said to Flora with barely suppressed excitement. The girl had to have been barely eighteen, with deep blue-black hair similar to her brother's and delicate little horns reminiscent of a roe deer.
Doing as she was told Flora tentatively closed her eyes and let the girls lead her into the room. It was hard not to open her eyes as she felt them gently guide her into a room within the apartment, worry starting the claw its way into her heart.
"Alright! You can open them!" Alice said cheerily, and Flora obeyed. What she saw was certainly not what she had expected. Honestly, she wasn't quite sure what she was expecting, but a dress this beautiful was not on her list.
What stood before her was an ornate dress of a deep shade of blue that faded into black at the bottom which flowed in waves. Embroidered into the bottom were tiny images of flying dragons and prancing unicorns accompanied by minuscule stars and the two full moons. The front had frills that puffed up at the chest and fanned out into the body of the dress. The shoulder also puffed up, but not so much as to be obscene, and ran down into neat cut sleeves with similar patterns of dragons and unicorns embroidered at the ends. The chest was cut lower than Flora was used to, but not so low to cause a stir.
"Come on!" Alice tugged at Flora's sleeve and she let herself be led by the younger woman as they rounded to the backside of the dress. It was done up with a long lace ribbon tied in a bow at the back, both sides done with more embroidery. Similarly to the front, the back was also cut just low enough to show her neck and a little bit of her shoulders. Flora was dumbstruck, unsure if this was really something for her.
"Well?" Alice asked, excitement written across her face. "What do you think?" She looked at Flora with genuine anticipation, waiting for Flora's answer.
"It's… It's simply gorgeous. But why? I've never done anything to earn something like this." Flora knew it was wrong to ask, but felt almost ashamed that they had given her so much when she had only ever taken care of the animals.
Esther snorted. "Well, on top of the work clothes appropriate for your station, my brother seems to have also forgotten that Balder has invited the entire court to his upcoming ball. So I reminded him." Esther gave a dismissive wave of her hand as if it were nothing. Flora took a moment to realize that included her. Blinking in surprise she turned to the women before her.
"You can't mean- I'm going? And Erick got me this?" Flora's stomach flipped and her heart clenched at the thought of something so grand. She had never been in a room with so many people, and had very little idea of how she would be expected to behave. Grace gave her a sympathetic smile.
"I mean, yes? You are a part of this court now." Esther said with a very matter of fact tone. Flora's mind began to race when she came to one question.
"Why are you telling me this now? I haven't even gotten an invitation." Flora's heart steadied as she changed topics.
"Well that's easy!" Alice said almost too cheerily. "We're leaving tomorrow, but I just had to see your reaction!" Alice seemed more excited than Flora, and she couldn't help but smile at the younger woman's merry attitude.
"Yes, unfortunately we won't be able to stay long." Grace put in. "Alice and I will be returning to our family with the unicorn clan for a while, and Esther has business elsewhere." She finished with a concerned glance in Esther's direction. Esther just rolled her eyes.
"It's my duty to check in on our smaller holdings across the kingdom every now and then. It's nothing new, and nothing I can't handle." Esther seemed tired, like she had already fought this battle before. Flora felt suddenly like she was in a cramped space, not wanting to get caught in between a possible argument.
Grace shook her head, and looked as if she were about to say more when a knock came from the outer door. Esther took no time getting out of the dressing room and over to the drawing room where she greeted the newcomer. Grace gave a nod to Flora and Alice, and the two followed her out with Alice closing the door behind them.
They arrived to see that King Erick had come, and looked surprised to see Flora was with his sisters. There was a flash of irritation before he turned back to Esther. I hope that wasn't because of me. Flora swallowed back her fear as a little part of her whispered that it was because of her, and that he was losing his patience with her. He's had to do so much for me, and all I can do is ride a few horses. Flora tried to not let her thoughts spiral as King Erick addressed his sisters.
"Well, I had come to wish you all farewell and ask if you had seen my Beast Master, but it seems I've got my answer." He didn't sound upset necessarily, but from the look he gave Esther there was definitely something more at play. Esther only smiled.
"The poor girl has been stuck with you men all week, and will be stuck with you for another two weeks. It's only fair to give her some quality time that she'll enjoy." Esther replied, causing Alice to hide a giggle behind her hand. Erick rolled his eyes before giving his eldest sister a hug.
"I appreciate the sentiment but we really must be going." He said, his other two sisters coming over to wish him a fond farewell. He hugged them both in turn, Alice nearly squeezing the life out of him before prancing back with her older sisters. There was a brief smile from Erick before he turned to Flora.
"If you're ready, I've had the horses tacked and should be ready to go." Erick extended his hand, the invitation to go clear enough. Flora felt nervous taking it, and tentatively looked back to say goodbye before she did. The three sisters all nodded and waved their farewell and Flora reached for King Erick's hand. The size of his hand dwarfed hers, the skin rough, and his firm grip was somehow gentle as he led her out of the rooms and eventually out of the castle. Flora realized belatedly that she still hadn't thanked anyone for the gifts.
Erick knew that he didn't have to continue holding Flora's hand as he took her through the castle, but a part of him refused to let go. It was as if something had just clicked into place, and he didn't want to risk losing it. He remained quiet the whole time, contemplating these feelings as well as what his sisters had really been up to.
It was obvious by now that Esther was trying to 'set them up' by ensuring no one else went on the Spring Inspection. Even if he had found some farm hands and guards willing to change duties so quickly, he knew that Esther would have found a way to get them to decline. So when she suggested this idea of hers, he knew it would be easier to just go along and take the bait.
He was aware of the implications of his actions. He knew what others would say about Flora when they saw him holding her hand. His aunt had cemented the image in, and his actions would be the final nail in the coffin. He should feel bad, but a little part of him liked it. Liked the idea that others would think that she was his.
This was different than before. Different from the women that he had seen, that he had entertained as his aunt put it. Erick knew that the feeling was mostly from the part of him that was still an animal, a dragon. He knew he should hate it, that if he didn't do something now it would only get worse. An all too large part of him didn't want to do anything, and so he gave in to this small selfish gesture.
Erick led Flora out the front doors of the castle, and though she didn't say anything he was aware of the blush that had grown across her face and neck. He didn't react in an attempt to save her some dignity. Instead he led her to the royal stables where the horses would be ready, still holding her hand. He grimaced, knowing he would get words for it later. Most likely from Aunt Martha.
He didn't let go of Flora's hand until they arrived at the barn. He casually let go and continued on into the barn, trying not to look back as she paused. He could hear the humming of her mind as thoughts began to spin, and had to shut down his own mind to prevent himself from hearing what she was thinking. He knew most humans did not know the full extent of night magic, but he still made a mental note to teach her to be more protective of her thoughts.
In the barn he found Leon finishing up with tacking the horses, grumbling the whole time as he did. His own horse Penelope was all ready, and Flora's Condor was nearly done. Erick noted in approval that Condor was much better behaved than he used to be.
"There you are!" Leon grumbled. "Took ya' damn well long enough." Leon continued to gripe as he patted down the horses and made his way over to Erick and Flora. He really is turning into an old curmudgeon. Erick thought with some humour. He kept his face neutral as he addressed the former Beast Master.
"I appreciate your help Master Blaire, and your brief return to your station to assist-" He was cut off by Leon's barking cough.
"Save the formalities for the court Erick, I'm just doing my job." Leon waved his hand dismissively. Erick overlooked the offense, and the improper way of speaking to him. There weren't many around, and he knew that correcting Leon now would only be pointless and petty. Rolling his eyes Erick turned to Flora, who had been quietly waiting this whole time.
Erick didn't say anything at first, noticing that Flora had clearly been lost in thought and was more than a little worried. It would be so easy to just look in and see what's on her mind. He knew it was wrong, and shook his head as if to clear the thoughts from his mind.
"We'll be traveling light, but we'll make good time." Erick stated. Flora only nodded as she assessed the horses. He also ran a quick eye over everything, finding it all in place. They carried a few packs and gear in the horse's saddlebags. The largest pack was tied to the back of Penelope's saddle, the one tent that they would be bringing. The bed rolls were stored on Condor's saddle.
Erick could almost hear the question before Flora asked it. "Will this be enough? I mean, I know it's only the two of us, and we are trying to be careful, I just want to make sure we've got it all." Her voice quieted until it was only a whisper at the end. Erick knew he hadn't given her a mean look, but his resting face wasn't necessarily kind.
"We'll be fine" Was all he told her before he took Penelope from Leon. Leon just gave a tired huff and held out the reins for Flora to take. She grabbed the leather with a quiet thank you and the two left the barn in silence.
"And don't worry Flora!" Leon called out. "I'll take care of that mutt for ya'!" Before she could respond Leon turned back and retreated into the barn.
Mounting on his horse, Erick quietly waited for Flora. Being much smaller than him, she had a harder time getting atop a horse without a mounting block. She did manage however, and soon the two were off at an even trot. Erick led Flora out the two gates of the castle grounds and towards their first farm for the Spring Inspection.
Flora sat quietly on Condor for the few hours it took them to leave the sprawling city behind. The country was humming with the buzz of bugs and birds as spring came into full bloom. To Flora it was all background noise, lost in her thoughts as she was.
Maybe he just thought I would need help through the castle halls. Flora thought, her thoughts once again returning to this morning when Erick had held her hand to lead her through the castle. He did look irritated after all. Perhaps I'm just a child in need of guidance. The thought sank like a stone in her stomach. The three years difference of twenty-three and twenty-six shouldn't have made her feel so young, but somehow it did.
Erick was silent as always, stone faced as he rode just ahead of Flora. He knew the route, and Flora didn't mind following her king. When her thoughts weren't buzzing like a beehive, she took a moment to admire him. Not that she thought that much about him, but it was hard not to notice him and the many things about him as they rode through the country together.
The two rode on for most of the day like this, until Erick pulled to a slow stop near a campsite area next to the road. The old embers of a fire, a fence post for tying horses, and trampled grass all showed signs of a well used area. It was close to the middle of the day, and Flora was very glad for what Erick was about to say.
"We should stop to rest and eat, today will be one of our longest rides." Okay, Flora was excited for the first part of what Erick had to say. She did not enjoy the idea of riding all day, but knew that was just part of the job when so many of the kingdom's farms were spread out few and far between.
What he did next was more surprising, as both his antlers and small star disappeared as if they were never there. He must have seen the look on Flora's face because he gave a wry smile before commenting. "It can be easy to spot a dragon by their horns. I'd prefer it if we weren't seen and immediately recognized while on the road." The answer was very practical, but still surprised Flora.
"Right, that makes sense." She quietly replied as she dismounted Condor. Erick simply nodded in agreement as he took out an apple from his saddlebags. Flora did the same, reaching into the saddlebags in front of Condor's saddle and found her own stash of food. There were plenty of rations from dried meat, to bread, to cheese wrapped in white cloth. Flora grabbed a similar apple as well as a slice of bread and cheese.
The two ate their small portions as the horses quietly grazed, or as much as they could with the bits still in their mouths. Erick still said nothing as he remounted, waiting for Flora to do the same. The two continued down the road as the sun slowly made its way over them and began to dip into the horizon.
How could he go all day in silence like this? How have I managed? I feel like I'll go mad if we keep up like this the whole time. I guess he really could kill me with boredom. Flora was feeling pretty sunken until they finally came to a stop at another campsite. The sun was low on the horizon by now, the sky deepening in various shades of red.
"We'll stay here for the night, should be safe enough." King Erick commented as he got off Penelope and led her to the pence post. Flora followed suit.
"Will the one tent be big enough for the two of us?" Flora suddenly remembered that they had only brought the one, realizing she would be sleeping in the same space as him. Sleeping next to her king. The thought sent shivers down her spine, and she couldn't tell if it was from fear or arousal. No, I am definitely not thinking of that. Not with the King. Besides, he's probably still upset with me. The thought put a damper on her spirits as she tied Condor to the post. She couldn't help but notice the look he gave her, almost quizzical and also curious, but he didn't say anything. She looked away, her face blooming.
She let King Erick handle the tent while Flora found the small pot and rations of rice in the saddlebags on Condor. Setting them aside, Flora then took to work un-tacking the horses and setting the tack into neat bundles. Looking over her shoulder, she couldn't help but admire Erick's strong form as he continued to put up the tent. No, not thinking of that, remember? She scolded herself before returning to the campfire.
Flora struggled to get the fire going, despite having both wood and kindling laid our perfectly. She kept striking the steel and flint but the tiny sparks she produced did nothing to light the fire.
"Here, I'll do it." Suddenly Erick's hands were on hers, taking the flint and steel and using them to start the fire. He got it on the first try, and Flora felt her face light up with embarrassment as she looked away and mumbled a polite thank you. King Erick replied with a soft laugh, a gentle and comforting thing. "Quite alright." He said, handing the flint and steel back to Flora. She took them and stashed them away before returning to making the small meal. King Erick turned back to pitching the tent, and the two worked in silence.
It wasn't long before Erick was done, and the rice Flora was cooking had finished. Erick produced two small rice bowls and two pairs of stebkan, or two long sticks used to eat with. Something that had been assimilated into their previously unicorn influenced culture from the dragon clans. These meal sticks weren't articulately ornate, but were made with a dark wood and smooth finish that paired with the natural deep green of the bowls.
"Thank you." Erick gestured to the food. "I always appreciate a well cooked meal." He told her, a small smile with a hint of humour in his eyes.
"It's just rice?" Flora partially stated, partially asked.
"You'd be surprised how many people can't cook rice." His smile broadened and his eyes danced at some memory that Flora was not privy to. Erick took a serving from the small pot and sat down to eat, Flora following just behind him.
"I haven't actually gotten to thank you yet, for everything." She said quietly, poking at her food. "Especially for putting up with me." Her voice was barely a whisper as her heart raced. This was the moment she would find out if he really did want to get rid of her. She looked up when he didn't answer right away, and saw a mix of emotions on his face.
"Flora, I… I don't 'put up' with you. You're doing fine." He told her at last, setting his bowl down as he sat up straighter to address her. "You don't have to thank me for that or for earning your new job. You earned that, despite what anyone else has to say about it." Flora's throat clogged, and she fought back the tears that threatened to fall. To hear such a compliment was one thing, but to hear it from her king meant even more to her than anything in the world.
Erick leaned over to wipe the tears that had broken and rolled down her face, his rough hands gentle on her skin. He gave her a sympathetic look. "I don't know what else you could really thank me for, but you really did earn it." He said quietly.
Flora took a steadying breath before continuing. "The clothes were also very nice. I know Esther said it was just part of the process, but the dress really is beautiful." Her voice was quiet, but surprise lit up his eyes when she finished.
"I don't remember-" Erick started before he was cut off by a noise nearby. A faint rustling that grew louder, as if something was coming from the woods that bordered the campsite. Condor spooked, pulling at the ropes that tied him to the post. Erick immediately jumped up, and it seemed as if the shadows past the fire grew darker, angrier, as the noise grew louder. Whatever was coming from the woods was large, and it was coming right for them.