Crow was in town, walking along the street, a book in one hand, his other hidden in one large pocket of his cloak. As usual, his clothes were too big for him, only to hid the fact that he was very thin, unlike his brothers, which were mountain of muscles with no brain. The young man was heading for one of the jewelry in the market. He had heard of it from a certain person who said their jewels were among the best that could be find. He was wondering if it was true.
Using jewels to materialize or imprison magic was a common use among mages, but getting good materials was difficult and if the jewel wasn't the right size or well shaped, a spell could go wrong. Finally reaching the place, the black haired young man entered the shop. A small bell rang as he opened the door.
Immediately, he started looking at the counter where the jewels were shown. He was looking for something specific. He didn't ask for the owner or anything, he would find it on his own. Crow wasn't tall nor very impressive looking, but he had a certain charm to his mysterious figure, his black eyes filled with a certain curiosity, almost sickening and a small smirk always lifting at his lips.
He was really wondering if he would find anything of interest around.
Risa looked up from the bracelet she was working on as the bell rang. She blinked several times to focus, eyes spotty from staring at twisted gold wire and a small pile of sapphires for the last few hours.
"Oh. Hello, sir," she said brightly after a moment, offering a smile and folding her hands to rest her chin on them. "Can I help you with anything?"
While she couldn't technically make a sale on her own- her father was still the proprietor- she could at least help customers find what they were looking for.
Crow hadn't notice the girl's presence, until she spoke. He turned his dark black eyes toward her and paused for a moment. He frowned for a instant before mumbling something under his breath. He could feel a potent magic in this girl. It was strong indeed.
-Hmm...maybe...I'm looking for an opal...10 centimeters wide...no hollow...and round shaped...-
He said as he approach the young girl. He wasn't all that old himself, but she was small, even to him. He smiled a little, while thinking but keeping quiet. His tone was soft and low, not a word higher then the other.
She arched an eyebrow. "That's quite specific. Let me see..."
Risa slipped around from behind the counter, carefully laying a cloth over the piece she was working on, and moved to one of the shelves near the back of the shop.
"Round- do you mean oval or circle? Or does it not matter?" she asked, kneeling and opening a small chest that had a few larger gemstones layered along it's bottom.
Crow tought for a moment as he followed from the other side of the counter.
-Oval if you have...perfectly round opal are too sensitive...-
He answer her, while checking on other jewels while he was at it. He needed that opal to put some new spell and summoning circles he had found. Opal were best to trap spells since they had good magical properties and could adapt to a lot of different magic school.
He waited for her to be done.
"Hmmm."
Risa picked two stones that looked like the might do and stood. She crossed back to the counter and laid the opals on out for him to see. "Are either of these acceptable?" she asked with a small, rather vague smile.
Crow looked at the stones carefully, observing the lines of color. Every stones had some particularity, even if they were of the same family. He took one of them and looked at it in the light, the reflect looked well and it had a nice aura.
-Hmm...yes, this one is acceptable...-
He said, putting it back on the counter.
-I'll take it...-
He added. He hadn't seen anything else so far. It wasn't as impressive as the other mage made it sound, but then again, Crow was a difficult mage. People often had a hard time dealing with him, even when he was in a good mood.
"Oh. Um." Risa bit her lip. "Well- good. Ah, that's good," she murmured. She reached for a small felt purse and delicately wrapped the stone up.
"Um. That's thirty gold pieces," she said softly. "But, uh...I'm not technically allowed to make a sale. I don't actually run the shop you see, I just work here. I'm only looking after things until Papa comes back. Which should be shortly!" she added quickly, hoping he wouldn't leave.
Well, that would explain things. He had been surprised to see such a small girl running the place. He nodded.
-Ahh...I don't mind...I'll wait...-
He said, leaning over the counter, observing the girl in more details. His chin resting upon his palm as he looked at the girl.
-Tell me child...do you happen to...practice into the magical art?-
He inquired about. he could tell the girl had a gold mine like power vein running trough her, but how rough was the diamond? Was a good question.
Risa snapped her attention up. "Child?" she protested mildly, frowning a bit. Eighteen wasn't a child!
But, of course, the customer was always right. She swallowed a retort and forced another smile. "As a matter of fact, I do, sire. Not very often, an I'm not particularly talented, but I do."
-I see...that is...very interesting...-
He said, with once again, that mysterious tone of his, letting out onto something, but it was unclear what. Perhaps the real opal he was looking for wasn't the one in the counter.
-Tell me, what kind of magic do you perform?
He inquire once more, tilting his head on the side, now more curious then he was. There was something in his eyes that was making people uneasy. But that was something Crow had never cared about.
Risa frowned again, starting to be a little put off. But, again- the customer was always right.
"Mostly simple little things. You know, give the stones a little extra shine, or that shaping that manual tools just can't achieve." She shrugged. "Why the interest?" Her eyes flicked toward the door. What on earth was taking her father so long?
Crow looked at her. So she was raw...it made him smile as she asked why.
-Simple...I do feel a very high potential in magic in you...but it seems you haven't developped it yet...hmm..-
That's when the door opened, letting enter a man, the owner of the shop.
Risa's eyes widened slightly. High potential? Her?
Then the door opened again and she snapped back to herself. "Papa." She smiled and waved the man over. "The gentleman would like this," she said, tilting the little purse so he could glimpse the opal inside it.
"Ah." Her father gave Crow a quick smile and a polite nod. "Risa here gave you the price, I assume?" he said without preamble, slipping behind the counter.
Crow frowned as the father came back. He nodded about the price.
-Yes...she did...-
He said slowly, taking out his own purse and handing over the requested gold. He was much more interested in the girl now then in the actual opal he had first came in to buy, but it seemed their conversation would have to continue later.
-Well then...I'll be taking my leave...I might come back if you ever get more of these...-
He showed the opal he had just purchase.
-Here is my adress so please contact me when you have more...-
He gave a small note on which his adress was written.
"Ah. Of course, sir." Risa took the paper, a little surprised but willing to do what he said. "Thank you for your business," she chirped cheerfully, tucking the paper away.
"Here, let Risa walk you out," her father said as he handed over the stone and gave the young woman a quick nod.
Risa slipped out from behind the counter and moved to the door, holding it open for him.
Crow walked toward the door, after pocketing the precious stone. Accompanied by the girl.
-Really...you shouldn't waste such talent here...-
He said, once outside. The reason he had given her his adresse, was for her to come see him. Perhaps he could show her how to reveal her potential. Something like that didn't happen all that often. But he couldn't force her either.
-Good-bye...-
He said, as he walked away.
Risa frowned. "I'm not...wasting..." she protested quietly, but he was already walking away.
With a sharp exhale, she gave him a small wave as he moved off down the street and hesitated a moment before turning back inside.
Crow moved along the streets, his opal in his pocket, the seeds of curiosity planted into the girl's mind. If she would come to him was to be seen, but he had hope she would. At any rate, he made his way back home.
As he arrived at the high fence surrounding the manor, the guards let him in and he walked back to his room, getting back into his studies for the day. Despite been all into magic, he still had a major to prepare for university. So his father wouldn't complain too much about him not been a warrior or a soldier like the rest of his brothers.
It took her nearly a day and a half to work up the courage, but finally Risa found herself slipping through the city to the address Crow had given her. She'd made her excuses to her parents- she wasn't quite sure why she hadn't just told them what she was doing, but for some reason she had the feeling they wouldn't exactly approve. Neither of them were mages, they never seemed to quite know how to react to her magic.
"Wow." He eyes widened when she saw the manor. No wonder the man hadn't batted an eye at the price of the opal. She froze just outside the gate, suddenly unsure. What was she doing here? She just wasn't made for these kinds of things...
As the girl arrived at the gate, she could see two guards waiting. They looked at her.
-Can we help you?-
One of them asked, frowning. They didn't seems all that friendly, but then again, they were guards. If she looked trough the fence, she could catch a glimpse of the thin young man, walking into the gardens.
"U-um..." Risa bit her lip and resisted the urge to shrink back away from the gate. "I- there was a young man in our shop a few days ago, he told me to come here if we- we got new stones in. I just-"
Her eyes flicked behind them and she breathed a tiny sigh of relief. "There. Him. That's..." Oh damn, she'd never gotten his name.
The guards looked at her, frowning, but they seemed to understand who she meant. One of them looked back into the garden, seeing Crow, he sighed.
-Of course...that would be the young master Crow...wait for a moment please...-
The guard opened the gate and went inside, walking up to his master, which looked over at the gate and gave a smile. He nodded to the guard, and he went back.
-Right...it seems the young master wishes to see you...go on...-
The guard said, letting her pass. Crow was waiting at the edge of the garden, his hands on his hips, his head tilt.
"O-oh. Thank you..." Risa tried for a small smile and crept warily through the gate an into the garden, looking around with wide, wondering eyes.
Stopping a few paces away from Crow, she ducked her head and murmured a respectful, "Hello again."
He smiled at her.
-Why hello! -
He answered back to her.
-Well, don't mind if we talk while walking, I have a lot to do...so, follow me will you...-
On that, he started walking again. He had been picking up flowers from the garden and the little basket he was carrying was full of them. He was heading straight toward the main house, which was even more impressive from up close.
-I was wondering if you would actually show up!
"W-well..." Risa fell into step beside him and offered a small, hesitant smile. "We didn't actually get any new stones until this morning, so..."
She cleared her throat. "Um- milord?" Was that the proper way to address him? "Can I ask- you don't really care about our new opal shipment, do you?"
Crow wasn't really caring about title and other thing, but being called milord was always pleasant. While the girl asked another obvious question, he did answer.
-Not in the latest...the last opal worked well but it can't compare to raw material...really...-
He said as they entered the manor. It was huge, well decorated and well taken care off. Servants were roaming the place to keep it clean while Crow was moving fast along them to climb the stairs.
-Honestly, I was more interested in you then the rest of the shop...-
He said, not even looking at her once as they moved on along the corridors. Given less to no time for the girl to see the many protraits and statues along the way.
Risa was rather overwhelmed, trailing along behind him like a lost puppy. "Wait, what? Me?" She blinked at his back as he led her along. "But...why?"
He suddenly stopped, leaving her to bump into his back, well, more into the lot of clothes he was wearing, she could swear she hadn't even touch his body.
-So...you came without even realizing that? Well...I can't expect everyone to follow up with me now can I...?-
He said, then started to walk again, made a turned and enter into what look like a doctor's lab, with lot of strange equipment here and there.
-Don't touch anything will you...-
He put the flowers away into different basket then turned toward her, finally giving her a bit of attention.
-As I said, I can feel great potentiel in you...but it need to be refine, like how you make your jewels...and when I see something interesting I don't let them go that easily...-
Don't touch anything. Well that was just common sense, but she was still sorely tempted.
Then his words snapped Risa back to herself and she just stared at him in silence for a long moment. "You...want to...refine me?" she guessed slowly.
Well, at least it was starting to sink in.
-Yes...that's exactly that! -
But perhaps metaphor wasn't the girl's forte. Despite such a potentiel, he felt this would be quite the trouble to make her into a beautiful diamond.
-With that much in you, you can learn to do so many things! I mean, we're talking about magic! Aren't you curious about what you could do?-
He paused, turning around after putting something into one of the various tubes.
-Certainly, you can't be thinking of contenting yourself with the making of some...jewels right?-
"Well, I-" Risa frowned in thought. "I am curious," she admitted after a moment. "But, I mean...there's nothing wrong with what I do. It's a good living, and Papa wants me to take over the shop..."
She didn't even sound convincing to herself.
Crow was far from being convince. For a normal person, sure, it was a good living, but for someone with magical potential, it was a complete waste and Crow wouldn't back off on that part. He shook his head slowly.
-Why don't I show you a little something...-
He walked toward the center of the room, motioning for the girl to follow. He kneeled down in front of a magical circle, many runes were written there. He lit up the few candles set around the circle with a flick of his hand and started chanting, his left hand on the circle, the other lift in mid air.
The circle lit itself up, at the center layed the small opal he had bought the day before. In an instant, there was a flash of light, the second after, a small creature was standing in the middle of the circle. It look like a very small a slightly chubby fairy with long dragonfly like wings. It's big red eyes were locked upon them.
-This is a lava fairy...and what I just did is called summoning...this is magic...-
He said, looking back at her.
"Oh!" Risa blinked, one hand flying up to cover her mouth. "But that's- I mean- I could never do that!" she protested. It was the first thing that popped into her head. "I'm just...I just make pretty things, that's all."
Crow frowned, sighing even more as he looked a bit exasperated.
-That's the wrong mind set!!-
He let out. His tone rising up a little. He calmed down, putting a hand in front of his eyes to gather his toughts and eventually looked back at the girl.
-Alright...of course you can't make it now...that's a given...but if you...became my assistant for exemple...I could train you to unlock your powers! -
He said, this time with a heavily forced smile.
She flinched back a bit when he shouted, dark eyes going round. She hadn't actually expected such emotion from this seemingly perpetually bored individual.
"B-but," she stammered out automatically. "What about the shop? I can't just leave."
Still, Risa couldn't deny that she was sorely tempted by the idea.
He had done whatever he could. He couldn't just force her down now could he. Well, probably he could but he wouldn't, that wasn't the goal here.
-Well..the offer is on the table...it's up to you now...-
He said, sighing. He took the small fairy and put it on his shoulder. The fiery little creature stood there without trying to escape.
-I'll accompany you back to the gate...-
He said, then starting to walk.
-So just think about it ok...-
"I will," Risa murmured, following after him. Her eyes fixed on the little fairy creature and she smiled slightly, waving at it.
The fairy waved back but did not motion to leave the young man's shoulder. They were back at the gate and he waved her good-bye. She was left on her own on the other side of the gate while Crow was walking away, back to the castle.
Risa waved distractedly, hesitating a few moments before she turned and made her way back home. Her mind was whirling, considering the possibilities.
She needed to talk to her father.
On his side, Crow had been back in his room, making new experiments while the little fairy was sitting on his shoulder, sometimes yawning a little and looking at Crow with curious eyes.
As Risa got home, his father had just closed the shop for the day.
She took a deep breath. "Papa? Can we talk?"
Risa and her father moved up to the second floor of the shop, which was actually their home. She sat her parents and brother down an started to talk, explaining Crow's offer
"So...you won't be working in the shop anymore?" Kenai, her little brother, said slowly when she' stopped talking.
Risa sighed. "I don't know. I mean, we didn't really talk about specifics, but...I think I'd be spending most of my time working as his assistant." She looked to her parents. "I- I really want this. I think I could be good at this."
Her mother and father exchanged a look, then turned to her.
So Risa found herself back in front of the large, ornate gate the next morning, biting her lip and once more facing the guards.
The guards looked at her, frowning again.
-Are you here to see the young master again? We received word to let you in if you came back...-
The guard said, moving away from the gate and opening it, letting the girl in.
-Follow the path straight to the manor and don't wander...ask a servant to bring you to the young master's room...-
He warned her.
Risa swallowed hard and nodded. "Um, yes. Th-thank you," she murmured, slipping through the gate and starting along the path.
She forced herself to focus, but before she knew it she was in front of the door. Taking a deep breath, she raised her hand and knocked. "Ex-excuse me? I'm here to see Cr- Master Crow?"
One of the maid opened the door, looking down at her. She raised an eyebrow but since the guards had let her in, it seemed she had been invited.
-Follow me...-
She said. The maid turned around and started to walk at a fast pace. Time seemed to be important around here and she seemed to be in a hurry. She led them to the room she had been to before and lightly knock on the door.
-Master Crow...you have a visitor...-
The maid said. The young man turned his black haired head toward them and nodded, motioning for Risa to come in. The maid went away.
-Come in...
Risa crept warily into the room, then belated ducked into a half curtsy. Was that the proper greeting? She really wasn't sure.
"Hello again, milord," she said quietly with a small nod.
Crow was working with some of the plant he had collected the day before, putting them into small powder and putting the resulted powder into different small pot, which were then labeled with the proper name.
-I'm glad you came...so, did you finally decided?-
He asked, finally turning his black eyes toward the girl.
She hesitated a moment, then nodded once, firmly. "Yes. I- I want to learn, if you'll have me," Risa murmured.
She tried for a small smile. "I just, ah- there are some technical details that need to be worked out, I think."
Crow nodded. He was please that she had chose not to waste her power. He stood from his chair and motion for the girl to follow. They walk to an inner garden. The sun was passing trough the glass roof, making sure the plants had enough sun light to grow well. He walk to a small table and sat next to it, inviting her to do the same.
-Indeed, there are...mind to tell me your name? I don't believe you've told me yet...-
He said, slowly, locking his eyes into hers.
"Oh. Risa." She smiled softly, blushing and clasping her hands behind her back. "My name is Risa Serrin. It's a pleasure to meet you, sir." She bobbed into another quick curtsy, but this time she was smiling a bit.
-Right...Risa...nice to meet you too..-
He said, nodding slowly.
-Now then...since you'll be working as my assistant, you'll be paid of course, at the end of each week...you can either live here or back at your house, I don't care, as long as your up at 5 in the morning, here and ready to work...also, you will need clothes you don't care to dirty while working...so I don't want you to come crying to me if your dress is all dirty because you messed up with a potion or something...-
He said, quickly, but clearly. Apparently, that man didn't like to waste time.
Risa's eyes widened at the sudden influx of information, then she nodded quickly. "Um, okay."
She bit her lip. "Could- do I have days off?"
He stood there, looking at her, as if he wasn't sure he understood what she had just ask. It seemed like Risa had just asked him the most unreasonnable thing in the world. After a moment of surprise, he pushed away a thread of his hair from his eyes.
-A....day off...ri...right...people do these things huh...-
He said, apparently this question hadn't crossed his mind at all. He seemed to be think for a moment. He hadn't taken this into consideration and felt a bit ashamed that he hadn't. He was a workaholic, it didn't mean everyone was.
-Right...how about you take sunday and monday then...does that seems good to you?-
He suggested.
She smiled and nodded quickly. "Yes, that's perfect, thank you."
It would at least give her time to go home and see her family every once in a while.
Clearing her throat, Risa dipped her head respectfully and said quietly, "I didn't realized I'd be allowed to board here- would you allow me to return home and gather a few things?" It would make things easier if she lived at her place of work.
-Well...yes, obviously...I'll be making the necessary arrangement for you living here...-
He said, nodding. He took out a feather and some ink, then started writing on a small piece of paper.
-Now hurry up...I'm eager to see what that potential of yours is hiding!-
He said, his tone this time showing a little bit of excitement, instead of the low and neutral habitual expression.
"R-right. Okay!"
Risa nodded and curtsied again, then turned and darted from the room and back through the manor. She made a few wrong turns, but eventually managed to get back outside and through the gate, nodding to the guards as she passed.
She didn't run exactly, but she was definitely moving quickly as she made her way back home. Her father was running the shop, so she slipped in through the back and made her way upstairs.
"Mama, Kenai, listen..." Risa explained that she'd be living at the manor during the week as she packed up a few things- enough to get her through the week at least, she could bring more when she had her days off.
Her mother hugged and kissed her and Kenai ruffled her hair as she slipped back outside and mad her way back to the manor. This time she was a little more confident, nodding and smiling at the guards before hefting her little pack and striding up to knock at the door.
While Risa was away, Crow was making the preparations for her room. Of course, he would need his father approval beforehand. Usually, he would just let him do whatever he felt like, as long as he brought good grades from university. He knew how he wasn't muscles like his brother but at least he could boast about the intellectual side as well.
Crow knew that he was. He didn't care much about it. Walking toward his father quarters, he knocked at the office and got in. His father was a very tall man, with an impressive shape and a large chin.
-What is it?...-
He asked. Levyssen Godwing wasn't exactly in the best of terms with his so, but he still considered his intellect as valuable, since so far, Crow had only perfect scores from his studies.
-I like to borrow a room for my new assistant...Her name is Risa Serrin...She will reside here during the week for her work...-
His father stopped what he was doing and looked up at his son. Crow didn't show any expression, more like, he was expecting a yes. His father sighed.
-Fine...but she is not to wander around without you...-
-Thank you father...-
He left and returned to his study. Ordering the arrangements for a room for when Risa would be back. The servant showed her the way back to Crow study room and he welcomed her back.
-Right, it's currently been prepared so can you wait a little before settling in? Leave your stuff in that corner there...-
He motion toward an empty spot near the door.
"Yes, of course." Risa nodded and tucked her things away, then straightened up.
"Alright." She looked at her new employer and offered a smile. "What should I do first?"
Crow seemed to be thinking for a moment.
-Hmm...first, I want to see toward which school your powers are oriented, from then on, I can help you developped them...so can you tell me more about what you do for magic? Even if it isn't much...-
He asked, motioning for her to sit at the table with him. He had taken ink and paper to take note.
She took a seat, brow furrowed in thought. "Well...I can shape the stones we sell. Not drastically, but better than people can do it by hand. Um..." She bit her lip. "I don't really use magic for much else besides jewelry making. Oh!"
She smiled as a thought occurred to her. "I can bend and shape metals without heating them first."
Crow listened, taking notes and nodding.
-I see...seems like your powers are related to the earth... that is very interesting!-
He said, smiling this time. It was something rare for him to do so genuiely. He let out a small laugh. He hadn't had the chance to study the earth magic yet, this was a good occasion to do so.
-Good...good...I'll have to think up a few exercises for you...-
At that moment, a maid came and knock on the door.
-Young master...the young lady's room is ready...-
She said. Crow nodded and got up.
-Alright, let's settle you in...-
They walked back into the corridor and reach for a room. As they enter the room, Risa could see that it was very luxurious. The bed could probably welcome more then 5 persons in it. There was a small desk for her to work, a huge closet, a boudoir and a large window leading to a small balcony, there was a nice view into the gardens.
-It's right next to my room...so if you need something I won't be too far..-
He mentioned.
Risa's eyes widened. "Oh my-"
She shook her head, speechless for a moment, then exclaimed, "I- I can't accept this! It's too fine, sir. Really, I don't need all this..."
Crow sighed.
-I'm not gonna lower the standard of the room just because you can't accept it...just take it and stop complaining...-
He said, rolling his eyes.
-Settle yourself in and join me back at the lab...the room we were in before...I'll show you around the place after so you don't get lost...-
On that, he left her to settle in and walked back to his room.
Risa wanted to protest, but he had already gone. With a sigh, she unpacked her- now feeling very meager- belongings and tried to fix her hair a bit to make herself look slightly more presentable.
She made her way back to the lad, taking a few wrong turns along the way but eventually figuring out the proper path.
Once there, she could see Crow was working...again, on something else. He was mixing up some potions together while looking at an old book. It was crazy how he never stopped working. Did he ever took any rest?
-Oh, your back...good...-
He said, noticing her presence once more. He finished what he was doing and put the finished product away after labeling it properly.
-Alright...I'll be showing you around...follow me..-
He said. He then started to walk along the corridors. He hoped the girl would remember the different path. She would probably get use to it anyway. They visited the library, it was Crow's personal one and no one else was allowed in there but him and one of the few maid he trusted. She would require a key to enter and as her assistant, she would need to come and fetch some of the books from time to time.
after that, they went to the second lab, where most of the items, product and ingredients were store, that again, would be important to keep clean and in order. He then show her to the gardens, where flowers and other herbs were growing. He would show her how to take care of it and that it would be a good exercise to her power, since it is related to the earth.
They visited a few more place and eventually came back to the main study.
-Got it memorized?
He asked finally. It was already getting dark outside.
"Memorized?" Oh gods, probably not.
"Sure." Risa smiled brightly and gave him a quick nod. "What would you like me to do first, sir?"
A small growl coming from Crow's stomach reminded him that he hadn't eaten anything yet...it was already late and night was falling.
-...Err...-
He blushed a bit, coughing to cover up for his stomach growling.
-I think...that we should call it a day for now...-
He said slowly.
A slow smile spread across Risa's face. "Alright."
She bit her lip, then offered, "I'm not a great cook, but I could make something to eat if you'd like." For a moment she actually forgot that he probably had a flock of servants to make his meals.
-........-
He fell silent over the girl's offer, then smiled...and started to laugh. It was something to see him smile...but to actually see him laugh was even more rare. And tough one could have tought his laugh would be weird, it was actually quite a refreshing one. Honest and clear. Once he was done, he gave an amused look at the girl.
-Your offer is very...kind but, I'll have the cook make something for us...-
He went to the door and rang a bell. Not too long after, a maid came running.
-Yes master Crow?-
-Can you ask the cook to prepare something light to eat...and bring it to my room...for two people...-
The maid nodded and went away.
-Not that I don't trust your ''cooking'' abilities...but you are my assistant...not a servant, your place is not in the kitchen dear one...-
Risa blushed darkly. "O-oh. Right. Of course."
She ducked her head, thoroughly embarrassed. Glancing around, she started trying to straighten things up in a desperate attempt to cover it.
He was always so surprised to see how common folk were so eager to do these things. Crow was a very poor cook, despite all of his alchemic skills, making food was out of his reach. It either ended burnt or not edible. Even the cat refused to touch the food he made.
He had long given up on it. He sat at the small table and let out a sigh, his shoulders usually up, were lowered as he seemed to finally have calmed down from the bustling of the day. He didn't notice the embarassment of the girl as they simply waited for the food.
Risa's nervous energy was searching for something to do, but the lab was quite frankly impeccable. She turned in a slow circle, bit her lip, then admitted defeat with a shrug.
Unable to force herself to sit, she hovered beside her new employer. "Should I, um- is there something I can do while we wait?"
-...-
He stood silent for a moment, eventually looking at her as she looked so restless.
-Then...why don't you start by getting familiar with whats around...look but don't touch and try to memorize whats where...so you can fetch it for me if I ask for...hm...-
He suggested, putting his chin in the palm of his hand while tilting his head slightly.
"Um...okay."
Risa nodded and did just that, wandering around the room and acquainting herself with the various odds and ends.
"Where do you even get all this stuff?" she murmured wonderingly.
He looked at her wandering the lab. The room was a mixt between a medical lab, a library and a living room with many strange pots, herbs and pouch and other weird equipment.
-Here and there...Most of these herbs are grown in the gardens...stones are found on travels...or bought from merchants...-
He said. Half an hour later, the maid came back with two plate that she put on the table for them to eat, along with some tea to drink.
-Thank you...-
The maid nodded and went away.
The food smelled amazing. Risa's stomach growled quietly and she flushed, ducking her head.
Hesitantly, she slid herself onto a seat and waited. She should wait for Crow to eat first, right?
It was a light supper, seen how it was late and how they would surely soon be heading to bed. There was a salad with vegetables and fruits in it. It looked fresh. On the side, a small plate with some chicken slices with hot sauce to dip them in. A variety of small salted biscuits to put in the hot vegetables soup was was going with everything.
Crow began with the soup, eating slowly. It was delicious, warm and quite tasty.
Risa dug in gratefully. She actually gave a small sound of appreciation at the taste of the food. While neither she nor her mother were exactly terrible cooks, they definitely couldn't accomplish something like this.
She sighed contentedly as she ate. Definitely not the worst job she could have taken.
Once the soup was done, he started eating the salad, mixing chicken slice in it. That was something else, but Crow was a slow eater, it took him twice the time he did to Risa for him to finish his meal.
Finally done, he push away the dishes and sighed.
-I suppose it's time to get to sleep...do you need me to show you to your room or you can find it on your own?
"Oh, I'm sure I can find it," Risa replied brightly. She stood and nodded to him again, then changed her mind and went with a slightly clumsy curtsy.
-Fine then...I wish you good night...-
He stood up and headed out, closing the light behind him as he headed toward his own room, which was actually not so far from Risa's. He entered his room and closed the door behind him, ready to fall for the night into his bed.
He didn't even change. He was exhausted but he was doing well hiding it.
"Good night, sir. Er, milord."
She made her way back to her own room- her room, it was so strange that she lived here now! She only made one wrong turn this time, and changed quickly into her nightdress when she did find her room.
With a sigh, she collapsed onto the bed and curled up, smiling as she drifted off.
The night at the castle was pretty quiet. There wasn't as much noises as in town. The bed was quite comfortable, the sheet soft and warm.
Morning came by eventually, the sun rising and showing his ray trough the windows.
Risa rose earlier due to a combination of anxiety and excitement. She changed into a simply working skirt and blouse, tying her hair back in a long braid.
At five o'clock sharp, she was standing just outside the door to the lab, hand raised to knock. She was suddenly unsure. Should she knock? She she just go in? Should she try to find Crow first?
Oh gods, I'm a mess!
Risa stood in front of the door, wondering if she should knock or get in. She would stand there long if she didn't chose. Eventually a maid passed by.
-Are you waiting for the young master young lady?-
She asked, stopping by.
Risa jumped a bit and flushed. "Um, yes, actually," she admitted, ducking her head.
-The young master is taking a bath at the moment...-
She said. At that moment, a butler passed.
-Oh, Ergerite...can you tell master Crow that Collin is out...it's monday so she'll be going to go to her doctor for treatment. Good day...-
The man moved on.
Risa bit her lip. The nervous habit seemed to be growing more and more common. "Then, um...what- where should I go?" she asked quietly.
The maid raised an eyebrow.
-I'm effraid I don't know...why don't you wait for him in the lab then? He always come here...-
She said, and then moved on as she had other task to accomplish. It was monday...wasn't that the day she was suppose to have off?
It took Risa an hour of pacing the lab to remember that she didn't have to work that day. Once again thoroughly embarrassed, she ducked back through the hallways of the manor and made her way to the front gate.
At the front gate, the guards wisher her a good day and she was left on her own for her day off. Tough, tomorrow would be her first offical working day.
During that time, Crow was enjoying a bath and thinking up ways to release Risa's powers.
A day off from Crow didn't mean that Risa necessarily wouldn't be working. Her father set her up in the shop again, mostly showing Kenai the ropes so her little brother could help out when she'd be working at the manor.
For the whole day, Crow had been preparing some exercises for Risa and bought some book about earth magic so she could read them. The books barely explained the basics and were nowhere near what Crow could manage to make her do, but it was a start since she was pretty much just a beginner.
With that in mind, the day ended and he went back to sleep, eager to see his new assistant flourish.
Knowing she would have to work the next day, Risa bid her family goodbye and made her way back to the manor. Feeling more and more comfortable each time she did, she waved to the guards as she passed through the gate and made her way back to her room.
She didn't even make a wrong turn this time.
It was almost five in the morning and she could heard the door from the room next door open and close. Crow was making his way toward the lab, his hair even messier then usual and his clothes falling off his skinny shoulders.
He looked as if he hadn't much sleep. Perhaps it was the case, but he was still eager to work. He had new ideas that came to him during the nigth.
At five on the dot, Risa knocked at the door to the lab. "Excuse me? Milord?"
-Come in! Come in!-
Crow called from the other side of the door. As she would open the door, Crow was sitting in one of the couch, by the fireplace, reading up a book. His hair were a mess and his clothes were still falling off his shoulders, it was to wonder if he ever looked at himself in a glass.
-Your on time...good...take a look at that pile of books here..I want you to study them...that's the base of earth magic, which I believe is what you do...but I can't be sure just yet..you might as well be an elementalist for we know!-
He hadn't lift his eyes from his book, but his hand was pointing out the small pile of 3 old book next to him.
"Study them?" Risa looked from the books to her new employer. She had the sudden urge to fix his hair, like she might have with Kenai, but she resisted. "Yes, sir."
She bobbed into a quick curtsy and nodded, then settled herself into a free chair with the books stacked the on the arm. She curled her legs up and opened the first, bowing over the text as she read.
The books offered her the basics on earth magic, explaining how to actually call forth the essence of magic within one self and how to apply it to daily use in order to make it grow. The first one was talking about the history of earth magic and how it was used in different sphere to help the daily life.
The second one was talking about fighting with earth magic, it showed how to position one's body into various positions. It was a more agressive way of using this type of magic, but it required both training of the mind and body.
The third one was about how nature and earth were linked together. Talking about how a novice could accomplish very simple things without really knowing exactly what they did.
During that time, Crow was also browsing trough some books, taking notes and moving on to another.
Risa had never been a particularly quick reader, but she muddled through the books with a dogged determination she'd never quite shown before, a considering frown locked on her face.
Could she really do all this stuff? It seemed so unlikely.
Crow would give her the time she needed to read the books. He was eager but not in a hurry and things like that took time. On his side, he had also a lot of things to take care of. And it was only a reminder of the examination he had to take the next day for his university.
But of course, he wouldn't let Risa empty handed. He had a few things in mind for her, but she had to finish the books first. He was now writing at a fast pace on some parchment . The sound of the scratching pen hitting the paper was the only sound around.
"Alright." Risa closed the last book with a sigh. She wasn't sure what time it was, but her vision was swimming. She hadn't really read everything, skimming a few chapters, but she thought she got the gist.
It was past noon already and diner was soon to be served. Crow was still writing, eventually looking her way.
-Are you done?-
He asked, tilting his messy head on the side. His deep black eyes locked onto the girl.
-If so, tell me which of them interested you the most?
"I, um...I'm not sure," Risa admitted. She bit her lip an glanced at the books. "I think...I'd like to just learn more. Be able to do more than shine a gem or shape metal."
He nodded.
-I understand that...then let's just begin with some exercises so you can get an idea...-
He got up, putting the parchment he was working on to the side and headed out, motioning for her to follow. They walked outside and into the gardens until they reach an opening. There wasn't much but a field. There wasn't even grass on the ground. He looked around for a moment then draw a circle on the ground, walk some more, drew another and eventually a third one.
Walking back, he started to chant and light came out of the circles, once it disapeared, 3 rocks of different size had appear. One was the size of a cat, the next one, the size of a mule and the last one was the size of a horse.
-These are earth elemental...don't worry, they are asleep and under my control...they won't attack you...but since your powers are related to earth...you should be able to move them without touching them...-
He said.
-Now then, let me give you a few advice, when using magic, it's often more natural when it comes to elements, there aren't real formulas...it's more like an instinct...so, concentrate on your task, use your hands to command your magic, eventually, you won't be needing them, but it helps sending the magic where it should...try with the small one...-
Crow said, taking a step back to give Risa some space.
Risa bit her lip and frowned. "O-okay."
She took a breath and held her hand out, focusing on the smallest rock. "Um...move?"
Nothing.
She closed her eyes, scowling with concentration now. "Move."
The rock wiggled slightly from side to side, but not much else happened. She dropped her hand and huffed out a breath, feeling surprisingly drained.
Crow observed the scene. He wasn't expecting much, despite the potential he had feel, it wasn't easy to get the right amount of magic nor to send the right flow trough. Tough, he still smiled.
-Not bad...you'll need to practice, but eventually you'll get the hang of it...-
He said, taking notes. He would need to find a way to release her inner power, it was probably just blocked a bit.
-Well then, for now, keep practicing...I'll be back in a few minutes...-
He said as he walked away.
"Oh. Um, okay." Risa watched him go, then turned her attention back to the rock. Furrowing her brow, she lifted her hand again and silently pleaded for it to move.
It took more effort than magic had ever required of her before, but she managed to get the thing to roll a few feet. Squeaking with excitement, she clapped her hands together and beamed.
"I did it! I actually did it!"
As she was practicing, she was approach by two tall young man, which looked a bit like Crow, but older and with much more muscles.
-So...Crow finally got himself a girl huh...?-
One of them said, looking at her from head to toes. The other one, who looked annoyed, tilt his head.
-I don't know...knowing him it's more like a toy...-
He said, grinning. The other one nodded.
-Probably....hey girlie...if I were you, I'd just leave Crow...nothing good will come out if you stay around him...he's just a freak...-
Risa blinked, concentration shattered, and took a moment to focus on the men in front of her. "U-um...I'm sorry, what? I don't understand..."
She took a step back, dropping her eyes to her feet. "Excuse me, I- I should go." She turned to leave, not sure where to go but wanting to get out of there.
-Ehh...look, you scared her!-
You could one of them say as you ran away. You escaped the two men, running somewhere, not really knowing your way around, you eventually bump into someone. Looking up, you find out that you just bumped into Crow, which was walking back.
-Eh...what's wrong? Why are you running like that?-
He asked, frowning a bit.
Oh thank goodness. Risa let out a relieved breath. "N-nothing, I just- I thought maybe I should go back inside," she mumbled, stumbling back a step and ducking her head again respectfully.
-What for? Didn't I told you to practice?-
He asked, tilting his head, then looking over the space where the earth elementals were. He could see the tall figure of his brothers, laughing their lungs out. He frowned, his eyes darkened a bit.
-Did you perhaps met with my brothers?-
"Your brothers?"
Oh. That made perfect sense, now that she thought about it. Risa blushed furiously. "I- I'm sorry, I didn't know. They just, um...they were talking, they mentioned you, and I got confused and-"
She cleared her throat awkwardly.
He raised an eyebrow as she looked at her.
-Well...maybe I should have told you beforehand...I also have a sister...-
He told her.
-I'm sure they were badmouthing me weren't they?-
He said. He saw that they were coming their way, he looked at them as his two older brothers approached.
-Hey...Crow...so, what are you gonna do to her heh? -
The younger of the two brother asked, with a mischievious smile. crow looked at him, a bit annoyed.
-Nothing...she is my assistant...-
While Risa may not be familiar with the etiquette involved in living in a place like this, she could pick up on the hints Crow's brothers were dropping. She blushed and fixed her eyes on her feet.
"H-hello again, sirs. Milords? It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance," she said quietly, dipping into a curtsy. Please, please go away.
Crow put a hand on Risa shoulder, forcing her to stay up.
-No need to bow to them...they wouldn't even understand the curtsy anyway...-
He said. His brother grinned, looking down on him.
-My Crow...aren't you a bit harsh? Did you told her what happened to the last assistant you had?-
They started to laugh and Crow looked more irritated by the minute. His teeth grit and his eyebrow deeply furrowed.
-It was a total mess when they found the body! I think it's still missing some parts! -
They laughed again, then started to walk away, pinching their brother on the head as they passed by.
-Really missy, you should run while you can...before you know...ending up weird or....dead!-
They walked off. Risa could swear she saw steam coming out of Crow's ears. his hand was shaking a bit on her shoulder.
The younger mage's eyes widened and she looked quickly between Crow and his brothers.
They couldn't be serious, could they? It was just...stupid sibling stuff. She and Kenai got into little tiffs all the time.
But nothing like that. Eyes very round, she looked at Crow and was silent for several long moments.
"I, um...I moved the rock."
She winced. Why oh why was that the first thing to come out of her mouth?
Crow wasn't really happy right now, but he was doing his best to calmed down. Now why the hell did they had to tell her that! It was stupid, completely stupid...When she spoke, it took him out of his anger and he looked at her, surprised and even a bit confused.
-Oh...uhh...-
Was all he could say. His hand left her shoulder and he let himself fall to the ground, looking tired and annoyed as he pinch the rim of his nose, trying to gather his toughts.
-Sorry about that...-
He said slowly, eventually looking back at her after letting out a sigh.
-They are idiots, all in the muscles...nothing in the brain...but perhaps I should tell you a bit more about me...I...haven't exactly been clean with you...-
He said slowly, looking up at her and waiting for her response.
Very slowly, Risa lowered herself to the ground to sit beside him. She curved her legs to the side and rested her hands in her lap.
"Then tell me," she said softly.
If it was really that bad, she could always quit, right?
Crow stayed silent for a moment, wondering how to begin. He usually wouldn't care about these things, but if his brothers were just going to say things like that, he was better warning her now.
-You see...I practice a few house of magic...mostly summoning...-
He began.
-But...I also practice in a more...less well seen by the common folks house of magic...-
He added. He didn't want to scare her, but she would eventually find out anyway.
-I'm a necromancer...in short, I can raise the dead...and that ''assistant'' they were mentionning was one of my experimentation that didn't go well...I didn't kill anyone...I swear!-
He said.
-But the corpse I used...kinda...blow up...-
He finished. Looking at her, hoping she wouldn't just run away out of fear. If so, then there was nothing much he could do against it.
Risa's eyes widened a bit. A necromancer? She hadn't thought any practitioners lived on Thanatos.
She'd been raised on scary bedtime stories of people who raised the dead, and she couldn't deny it made her look at Crow in a new light.
But...well, he didn't seem like a bad person...
"You're not going to, um...make me dig up bodies or anything, are you?" she tried to joke.
Crow looked at her for a moment, wondering if she was serious. He started laughing, then shook his head.
-No...no, I'm not gonna make you dig up bodies...that would be very rude of me...and I usually use animal bodies...they are easier to come by and easier to hide as well...-
He said, taking out the small skeleton of a bird out of his oversized clothes. It was barely the size of his hand. He smiled, looking at the bird as if it was any normal pet. He chanted a prayer and a small light appeared around the bird's body, lifting it up as it returned to life, more or less. The skeletal bird flew and perch itself on Crow's shoulder.
-People don't understand necromancy...that's why they are scared...they just....don't understand...-
He repeated, petting the dead bird on his shoulder. Perhaps it was scary and creepy, but Crow didn't seemed to care about that. all he truly wanted was to understand magic and it's boundaries.
Risa yelped quietly and reeled back when the bones started to move. Her eyes were wide and honestly a little afraid.
She took a breath and forced herself to calm down. Crow wasn't a bad person. So his magic wasn't bad, right?
She bit her lip and looked at his face. "Can- can I...?" She gestured toward the reanimated bird, hesitantly reaching to touch it.
He lowered his shoulder so Risa could reach the bird. It chirped, despite not having any lungs and looked at Risa, letting itself pet without any resistance.
-See...it's not so bad...his name is Tao...it was my first pet actually...so I'm quite attach to it...-
He said, almost softly.
She nodded slowly, not quite ready to speak yet. It was...very strange, petting bones. After a few moments Risa pulled her hand back.
"We just had a cat growing up," she said quietly, offering a tiny smile.
-...-
He stayed silent for a moment and the bird eventually returned inside his sleeve.
-Well...that's about it...I hope...I didn't scared you too much...-
He said, looking at her.
"I'm...a little scared," Risa admitted after a quiet moment. She glanced up to meet his eyes and tried for a small smile. "Maybe more...startled than scared. I think this may just take some getting used to." There was a brief pause, then she tacked on a belated, "Milord."
He nodded slowly.
-I understand...but at the very least, you are warn...and if my brothers try to bully you again...just ignore them...I'll handle it...-
He added, with a little smile. He got back up, adjusting his clothes a bit, then looked over the practice field.
-So...you manage to move it you said...why don't you show me how you did it?-
Risa nodded. "Alright," she said softly as she got to her feet and dusted herself off.
Taking a deep breath, she moved back to her previous position and raised her hands, closing her eyes as she focused her magic. The smaller rock wiggled, tilted, then rolled a few paces.
Risa dropped her hands and let out a sharp breath, drained but smiling.
Crow wanted to changed the subject, for now, it was better to avoid it, so the girl could get use to him and the place. He observed her progress like that of a mentor and smiled.
-Hmm...that's good, it's starting to sink in...-
He pull out a small vial from his sleeve. Just how many things was he hiding in there?
-Try this...it should help you direct the flow of your magic...-
The vial was holding a small purple liquid. It smelled like raspberries.
She took the vial and sniffed it warily, flicking her eyes up to search Crow'd face.
"Alright," she said after a moment with a shrug. Risa wrinkled her nose as she downed the liquid- it wasn't bad exactly, just...strange.
Drinking the potion, she could feel slight change in herself. She could actually now feel the current of magic she possess.
-The effects are only temporary...but eventually, you'll be able to feel it without taking anything...-
He said, looking at her, see if anything happened.
It wasn't exactly as if she could see it, but somewhat, she knew how it flow in and out of herself.
Risa's brow was furrowed, but she nodded slowly. "I think...I think I get it," she said softly, fleeing er fingers. She felt...tingly.
Crow smiled.
-Good then...try again, this time, try to lift the boulder instead of just moving it...-
He said, he was still taking notes and seemed to have forgotten, for now, of the earlier incident.
Risa bit her lip- this was becoming a habit- and nodded determinedly. She closed her eyes and tried to focus again, hand reaching out toward the smaller rock.
Very carefully, she lifted her arm, imagining that there was a tether between her fingers and the rock. Shakily, it rose into the air. She only managed to keep it there for a few moments, but at least it was something, right?
Crow smiled even more, almost out of pride.
-Good! Your starting to understand, that's good!-
He said, nodding.
-Well, keep practicing that until you can fully control the rock or until your out of energy, then we'll take a break for diner...-
He said.
With a gasp Risa felt her concentration break, but she shook her head and scrambled to get it back. "Okay. Okay." She set her jaw and raised her hand again, coaxing the rock into the air.
Goddess, this was difficult. Her breathing started to come a little sharper and faster but she refused to give in. Her whole body started to shake slightly with the strain.
Eventually, she was stopped by crow's hand on her shoulder.
-That's alright...I think that's enough for now..-
He said. He had taken a few notes and was now putting them away.
-Let's get something to eat...you'll need your strenght...-
He added, while starting to walk away, his hair were still a mess but he had calmed down from earlier and his brothers were no where to be seen.
His hand on her shoulder startled her out of her reverie and Risa jumped slightly. She blinked at him for a moment, still rather out of it, then nodded.
Her stomach growled and she blushed as she followed him. "Yeah. Food sounds good."
They walked back toward the main house. Crow barely never ate with the rest of his family, he felt a bit like an outcast. And he knew his brothers would be on his back again. They always had a few nasty words for him. He would rather avoid their company.
As they reach the lab in which the living room was, he called a servant to have food readied for them and to bring it to the lab. The maid nodded before walking off.
Crow let himself fall onto one of the couch and sighed. He eventually got back up, walked to a small closet, took out what seemed to be a bottle of wine and poured some into a glass, looking at Risa.
-You want some? Red wine...-
He asked.
"Oh, um..." She tilted her head, considering it. It didn't seem entirely appropriate to be drinking with her employer, but if he was the one offering- well, why not?
"Sure." Risa smiled slightly and nodded. "Thank you, sir. Milord."
He took another glass and filled it, not completely as it was not the way to enjoy a good wine, but to a little less then the half and hand it over to Risa. His own cup wasn't full either, he sat back into the couch and took a sip.
-I'm glad...you've made good progress..-
He said, looking at the red color liquid. It was fruity yet corsé on the side. But it left a good aftertaste in the mouth, it was a good quality wine.
Risa sipped at the wine and made a soft noise of approval in the back of her throat. Wow, the upper class really did have better everything.
As it went, Crow was drinking from his cup, emptying it quickly, even before the diner had arrived and pour some more in his glass. Diner was finally served. They sat at the table. The entry was a onion soup with cheese, a small salad, some fine bread and the main dish was pork with a sauce au vin and some grappe. Along with baked potatoes and vegetables.
It looked delicious.
-Well....Bon apétit!...-
He said. His voice was softer then usual. He took another gulp of his glass and started eating, somehow he seemed lost in tought.
"Yes, sir. Thank you, sir." Risa sat and tucked into her meal, keeping quiet and just enjoying the chance to eat something so good.
The food was good. It was already past noon. Crow was finishing his plate and took a third glass of wine, he had fell silent. His cheeks were a bit red and he was leaning on the side a bit.
-Really...their so...annoying...-
He spoke. Not talking to anyone in particular.
Risa glanced up at him, a little surprised that he seemed to be talking to himself. Surely one glass of wine couldn't get him that drunk?
"Who?" she asked innocently, though she had a feeling she already knew.
His black eyes turned back to her.
-These idiots...you know who...-
He had emptied his cup and was filling in a fourth one. He glance at the window, then at the door, as if he was thinking someone would just pop up from there.
-......they'll be crawling someday....someday...-
Crow was a very poor drinker and he couldn't hold much alcohol, thanks to his small body.
Risa frowned. "Um, milord?" she ventured carefully. "I know it's not my place, but perhaps you've had enough?"
She reached out and gently touched the rim of his glass, keeping him from raising it to his lips.
Crow looked at her, surprised, then at his glass, which she was keeping down. It took him some time to understand what she wanted and eventually left the glass on the table, putting his forehead in the palm of his hand, closing his eyes for a moment.
-I...think...it'll be all for today...-
He said slowly as he got up and walked up to a couch and let himself fall there, his head laid back, hair falling over his pale skin. When not annoyed or angered, he did looked quite nice. Crow had soft features but as he was always frowning or studying, they were never really in the spotlight.
If he'd be taking care of himself at least as much as he was working on his experiments, he would look quite handsome.
The necromancer's new assistant sighed and stood, having finished her own meal. She curtsied and started to leave with a murmured, "Good night then, Master Crow."
She could get behind "Master"- it wasn't all that different than "Mister", which was what she usually called her customers anyway.
Risa hesitated at the door, glancing back at him. Then she huffed out a breath and moved to the couch, pulling a rather fine blanket off the back of it to drape it over him before she turned and left without another word.
If he was going to sleep there, which seemed likely, he should at least be comfortable.
Crow had quickly fallen asleep, his breathing slow but steady as she left the room after putting a blanket over him. She was now left with nothing much to do, unless she felt like practicing again.
The maids and servants were walking along the corridors, to their daily task.
With really nothing else to do, Risa retired to her own room, books tucked under her arm. She perched on te bed and spread the three tomes out around her, determined to really focus on reading now that it seemed she had time.
She would have all the time she needed to read the books, it seemed like Crow was gone to dreamland for a while. Until someone knocked at her door. There came a beautiful woman with long dark black hair and black eyes. She was probably in her mid thirties. She smiled kindly.
-I'm sorry to disturb you...but are you perhaps Crow's new assistant?-
She asked as she took a step in.
-I am Marylin Crowly...Crow's mother, can I talk with you?-
"Oh!" Risa started and jumped to her feet, then dipped into a respectful curtsy. "O-of course, ma'am. Milady."
She kept her eyes fixed on her feet, unsure what she should do next.
The lady smiled kindly.
-No need to be so formal...-
She entered the room and sat on one of the chair. She was graceful and very beautiful, her hair almost touching her tights. She was wearing a long blue dress with frills.
-Please, sit down...-
She motion. As Risa would do, she started speaking.
-I know you just arrived but, I have to say that I am quite surprise as well, in all the years I have raised that child, I've never seen him taking a liking to someone, even as an assistant...-
She paused for a moment.
-He was always alone and persecuted because he was different...for him to go to such length, you must be very special...won't you tell me about it?
Hesitantly, Risa took a seat, watching the lady with wide eyes all the while.
"Tell you about it?" she repeated, rather befuddled. "I- I'm afraid there's not much to tell, miss. Madam." She shrugged. "He- Master Crow came into the shop looking for an opal, and I guess he just...took a liking to me?"
The lady nodded slowly. Perhaps she was expecting something, else, but she didn't add further to it.
-I see...-
She said softly. She smiled.
-Then, I will not trouble you any longer...thank you for your time...-
She got up, walking to the door, then turned her pretty head.
-Please, take good care of my son, he need someone to watch over him...good day young miss.-
She left the room.
Risa snapped to her feet. "Y-yes, ma'am. Of course. Thank you, ma'am." She dipped into a curtsy and bowed her head, keeping her eyes locked on the floor until Crow's mother left, when she collapsed onto the bed with a sharp exhale.
She was left alone. Even tough it wasn't exactly evening, it felt as if the day had been quite tiring. Crow was out for a while, drunk as he was.
From her room, she couldn't hear the usual chatter of the city, proof that the house was really far from the main streets, with his numerous gardens and other small facilities. There was much to see in this place.
Thoroughly drained- at least emotionally- from such an odd day, Risa perched back on the bed and decided to continue reading. She had to admit she was curious about the rest of the manor, the parts she hadn't seen yet, but she wasn't quite confident enough to go exploring on her own.
Eventually night fall, Risa was still reading the books, this time more toroughly as she heard foot steps in the corridor, unsure ones as she saw the shape of Crow, trying to walk back to his room, eventually reaching for the door weakly, but before reaching, he fell to the ground with a poof.
-err......-
He tried getting up again but ended up crawling back to his bed.
Risa glanced up at the sound of footsteps and frowned.
"Um...Master Crow?" She cautiously got to her feet. "Are- are you alright?"
The young man was apparently not in the best state he could be. He was mumbling things about his brothers been idiots. On all four on the ground, he was trying to pitifully make his way to his bed, but was slightly going in the wrong direction.
Hearing her, he turned his head, his eyes were half close.
-......I'm....fine....-
He said slowly, even tough he was clearly not. His head was spinning as he tried to get up on wobbly legs.
Huffing out a breath, Risa moved forward and tucked herself under his arm. Not entirely appropriate perhaps, but she doubted he'd remember it in the morning.
"Alright. C'mon, let's get you to bed," she urged gently.
Crow wasn't all that heavy, he barely stood and thanks to Risa's help, manage to get to his bed. His cheeks were still red and he looked rather sad at the moment. He clumsily climb into bed, not caring to undress or anything and crawled under his covers.
Risa could hear him muster.
-Sorry......-
Before he fell asleep.
She bit her lip, hovering beside the bed for a moment. Logically she knew her new employer was both older and clearly more powerful than she was, slight build aside- but she couldn't help the little surge of protectiveness that rose up in her. He rather reminded her of Kenai, in an odd way.
Shaking her head, Risa turned and slipped out of the room to make her way back to her own bed.
As night would pass calmly without any other incident, the sun rose again. Crow opened his eyes, with a small headaches and slowly rise in his bed. He was still wearing his clothes and could smell the alcohol that was still lingering in his mouth. Had he really drank so much? He couldn't remember, but he knew one thing, he must have been pathetic.
He got up from the bed, heading toward one of the cupboard and took out a small pouch, from which he took a pill, gobbled it up and swallowed hard. That would help him. Now that he remembered, he had his exam to take care of today...He didn't feel like it but...he had to do it anyway.
He went to the bathroom, hurried up and wash himself, brush his teeth, washed his hair. A maid was bringing him his clothes.
-Please wake Risa up...then bring the breakfeast...give her one of the assistant tunique from the school...I'll need her for my presentation...-
He ordered as he dried himself up. Soon, someone came knocking at Risa's door.
"Hm, wha-? Oh!"
Risa shot out of bed at the knock and immediately started flying about the room, dressing and pulling her hair back into a braid as quickly as she could.
"I'm up, I'm up! Forgive me, I'm still getting used to this schedule," she panted as she flung the door open, nearly hitting the poor maid in the nose as she did.
Risa found herself facing a rather surprised maid. But she quickly regain her composure and extended a small pile of clothes to her.
-The young master asked for you to wear this and to join him for breakfast in the dining hall, please wait for him in front of the lab once you are ready...-
The maid said. After giving her the clothes, she went on to her other task.
"Oh- alright, thank you." Risa nodded and slipped back into the room, frowning as she changed her clothes.
A glance in the looking glass told her these clothes were a good bit finer than what she usually wore, and perhaps a simple working braid wasn't her best option. She undid her hair to let it fall unbound down her back and framing her face. She knew she wasn't exactly a great beauty, but people usually commented that she at least had very prett hair.
With a satisfied nod, she made her way back out into the hall and to the door of the lab where she waited as she was told.
The clothe Risa was now wearing looked like some sort of uniform, with a small crest on the left side of the shirt. A small white blouse with a blue wool sleeveless shirt over it. A knee long blue skirt with long white sock. A small yellow and white scarf was put around the neck.
As she waited, Crow eventually arrived, wearing the same uniform as she was. But this time, the clothes were adjusted to his size, showing just how thin he was. White blouse with the same wool over jacket, the same crest with a mention ''Honor student'' under it. A pair of blue pants and polished shoes. He was wearing a silver pin under the crest and a yellow and white tie. It did suit him well, giving him that kind of mature and handsome look you'd see in a university student.
-Ahh...good, it suit you...you will be accompanying me at university today...I have an exam to obtain my Major and I will need you to help with some task...nothing too big don't worry...-
He said as he motion for her to follow him. They walked until they reached the dining room. It would be a first time for her since they usually ate in the lab. The place was very large and looked pretty, protraits of all the family members were seen on the walls. Crow's mother and father were on each end of the room, Crow and his brother and sister were on the side walls.
It seemed like the whole family was there. Crow's father was sitting at the end of the table, his mother at his left side. The eldest brother was sitting at the right. His sister was next to his mother and the other brother at his elder side. Crow would sit next to his brother, leaving Risa to sit next to his sister. Which he told her to do.
-Hmm...it's rare to see you at the table...-
His sister said, sligtly surprised. His father looked at him.
-I insisted...after all, today Crow is gonna pass his Major...-
The others nodded.
-Yeah well...he has to be good at something no?-
His brother teased with a grin. Crow didn't answer.
Feeling completely out of her depth, Risa quietly room the chair beside Crow's sister with a murmured greeting and a polite nod. She sat very still and tense, hands folded in her laps as her eyes flicked warily around the room.
The family was looking at Risa with curiosity.
-So...why bringing the new servant here? This is...-
Began one of his brother but Crow interrupted him quickly.
-She is no servant...she is my assistant...-
He said. His brother shut up. Crow's sister turned toward her and smiled to her kindly, trying to put her at ease.
-Don't worry too much, we don't bite.-
She laughed a little. The breakfast was soon delivered and the family started eating. The food was delicious and there was many. From scramble eggs to pancakes, along with fruits and various sauce to accompany the food. Bread and cheese were given to everyone and small fruit cakes were left in the middle for everyone to take.
-As you all know...the Godwing family will be holding a bal soon...two of our sons don't have fiancé yet and this will be a good opportunity to settle alliance...With Crow's getting his Major, that will be a good argument in the selection!-
His father said. Crow cringe at the new but refrain from any comment and just kept eating.
Risa offered a small smile to Crow's sister in return, nodding again and murmuring, "Th-thank you, ma'am."
She ate in silence, watching the way her employer's family interacted with each other. She found her eyes constantly flitting to Crow though, and that strange surge of protectiveness rose up in her chest again. He just looked so uncomfortable.
"I, um...I see," she murmured in response to his father's little pronouncement. "If- if I may ask...should I perhaps not be there?" She may not know much about the kind of life these nobles led, but she did know a little something about courtship.
"It may not be, ah, prudent for me to be at such an event. Having a young woman with Master Crow might send the wrong impression, even if it is just a business relationship."
They looked at her for a moment. Then the two brothers laughed.
-Ha ha ha, don't worry little girl, even if you stood next to Crow, I don't believed it would have much of an impact! Ha ha ha! Anyway, I doubt Crow could have anyone wanting to be with him!-
Crow was feeling his anger raging in, but he still looked calm on the outside. He push his plate further from him and slowly got up after washing his mouth.
-I'll be off...come Risa...-
He said. His tone was cold as he walked off. He left the dining room while his mother was reprimanding the elder who looked annoyed.
"Oh! Y-yes, sir." Risa jumped to her feet, blushing from Crow's brother's teasing even though it hadn't been directed to her. She hurried after Crow and fell into step beside him.
"So, um...what exactly am I supposed to be doing for you today?"
Crow was walking quickly, but still answered her question.
-Today I have a presentation to make...theorize on different things in front of the teachers and the students...it's call a Major because it's the final exam before I officially get promoted as an Historian...-
He explained.
-I'll need you to pass me documents and items during my presentation, that will save me time, I'll explain them to you once we are at the university...-
He said. Contrarly to what Crow's brothers said, the young man was pretty attractive, now that he wasn't wearing such gaudy and big clothes, his features were much more appealing that way and his hair weren't all messy in falling over his eyes.
Risa nodded along as he spoke. "Okay. I can do that," she said with a quick smile. Glancing at him out of the corner of her eye, she added softly, "If it's...not overstepping my bounds- you look nice, milord. Is this sort of thing something their going to judge your appearance on?"
-Ehh...Thank you...and not really...but even if it wouldn't really affect my grades...appearance is something society always judge...and at university, we are bound to wear uniforms...-
He said. It was the first time someone told him he looked nice. Tough, perhaps it had happened before, but he had never really given any attention to it. Somehow, it felt different coming from this girl. He found himself blushing somehow.
He chased the strange idea that came to his head and kept walking. They went back to the lab where Crow started packing stuff, while telling Risa to bring some over as he put everything he needed into a bag, and once ready, he looked at the clock, then nodded.
-Alright, let's be on our way...-
He said as he led them outside toward a cart attached to two strong black horses.
"Yessir!" Risa grinned and gave him a jaunty little salute and she climbed up into the carriage and settled herself onto one of the seats.
-My...your so enthusiastic...keep it up!-
He said. He put the luggages in front of him and climbed into the carriage as well. They set off. They would pass trough the middle of town, then up to the high class sector, where most nobles were living and headed out toward the northern part of the city, eventually reaching for the university.
If the manor was impressive, this huge piece of architectural history was even more amazing. The building was very large and had so many windows one couldn't count them and the roof had two bell tower. At the entrance, a large portal was leading to an inner garden and a large fountain was in the middle part of the pathway leading to the main door.
Many statue of various important characters were shown trough the whole place. Crow and Risa were left in front of the main entrance. Many students were walking around, some were studying under the huge trees. They all wear the same uniform, tough few had a silver pin under their crest.
Risa bit her lip, rather intimidated by the magnificent building. She took a shaky breath and looked at Crow- and suddenly smiled.
"Hold on." She rocked onto her toes and ran her fingers through his hair to fix the little pieces that had gotten mussed since they'd left the manor. She didn't think that it might be inappropriate- it was something she would have done for Kenai.
"Okay, perfect." She settled back with a smile.
When Risa told him to wait, he turned around, surprised.
-Wha...?-
He didn't finish his sentence as Risa was already fixing his hair. He raised an eyebrow as she did. Not that he really minded, but he was a bit taken by surprised.
-Thanks?...-
He said, unsure. Other student looked at them with a smile as they left toward the inside of the university. He walked in with Risa, his bag filled with papers under the arm and entered the place, his head held high. Some students moved away as he passed, leaving him the place to walk. Some were wondering who was the one walking in his wake.
He eventually entered a room and put the bag on one of the table and sighed. Soon, someone came knocking at the door.
-Ah....Godwing-san...-
It was an underclassman. Crow looked at him.
-What is it?-
-Hmm...the teacher asked me to tell you that your Major will be held in the second theater...at noon...-
-Thank you...I will be there...-
The underclassman nodded and went away, almost running.
Risa found herself shrinking closer and closer to Crow as more people started throwing looks their direction.
"So, if this starts at noon, when is it supposed to end?" she asked, more for something to say than because she really needed to know.
-It should last for about an hour or so...and get thirty minutes for questionning...-
He answered as they made their way toward the theater. Once there, Crow went to the stage and started making his preparations as two teachers came his way to make sure everything was fine. Crow politely salute them and chatted a little, before they left to sit in the front row.
As he was getting started, the theater started to fill up. It was the usual that when a student was making his Major, he had to make a presentation in front of a large crowd. Crow didn't seemed nervous as he was putting everything in order and showing Risa what was what so she could bring it to him when needed and in which order.
Risa did her best to pay as close attention as possible to Crow's instructions, nodding along and making small little sounds of assurance.
Once all the preparations were complete, Crow turned toward the crowd and the teachers. The room was filled up and he was surprised to see that many coming to see his Major. In class, Crow had always been the quiet type but every work he had done so far had been so amazing that his teachers kept talking about him.
He was ready to begin and waited for the teacher responsible for his examination to tell him to begin. He got a sign from him and started. He began with a introduction on the subject he would discuss. His Major was to become an Historian, so he started talking about various civilisation, making link in between different legends and stories, backing up with evidence what he meant. Talking about the various cultures and their story.
While talking, he was motioning for Risa to bring him this and that. The crowd was listening in silence and the teachers looked almost entranced by Crow's speech.
Risa barely understood what Crow was talking about, but people seemed to be interested. She snapped into action when he gestured for her to bring him different odds and ends, trying to do her job without drawing too much attention to herself.
Time passed and eventually, before Risa knew it, it was over. Crow had just finish his presentation and bowed to the crowd. It soon rose and started filling the air with applause. Crow waited for them to stop as the teachers were now asking questions. All more complicated then the other.
And like Crow had said, it took half an hour before he was done with the questioning. She had been instructed to put everything back into the bag they had brought so they could leave quickly.
And once it was really over and the crowd started to leave, he went back to her and gave her a smile while patting her head.
-You did well...thank you.-
He said. It wasn't much in his usual habit to give compliment, but it seemed sincere.
Ir wasn't exactly lavish praise, but Risa found herself beaming anyway. She flushed a bit and nodded, dipping into a curtsy with her head bowed to hide the blush.
"Of course. Just doing my job," she chirped.
He nodded to her as they walked off, back into the corridors. The students were looking at him, rather impressed. It wasn't all that often that people looked at him like this, but Crow rarely came to the university outside of school ours, and soon, he wouldn't be coming at all since he would have obtain his Major.
They walked back to a salon, in which they would be waiting.
-Now I just have to wait for them to take their decisions on if I'm getting my Major or not...-
He said, sitting on one of the couch.
Risa hovered beside him, not quite sure if she should take a seat. "And...how long is that meant to take?" she asked slowly.
-Probably about half an hour...you can relax now...-
Crow said. He seemed relieved somehow as he let himself fall back into the couch, closing his eyes and sighing softly.
She nodded and perched on the edge of the couch, hands clasped in her lap and eyes fixed on her knees.
"Do, um...do you think it went well?" she ventured.
Crow didn't looked at her, he actually kept his pose, then answered after a few seconds.
-I don't know...I think it went well...the crowd seemed interested...but the one to judge are the teachers...and even if I know that I did an excellent job...if the teachers don't approve...it's over...-
He said softly. He didn't seemed to care much about it. There was something else troubling him right now but it didn't show on his face.
-We'll get back to practicing once we're back at the manor...alright?-
He said.
Risa nodded. "Okay," she said easily, looking at him sidelong. "Are, ah- are you alright? Sir?"
-Yeah...just a bit tired...-
He said. Someone knocked at the door and Crow sat back up straight. The teacher who was responsible for the examination entered, he had a serious look on his face but a smile as well.
-Well then young man, you will be happy to hear that after speaking with the other teachers, you will be granted your Major and thus, your official title as an Historian! Congratulation M. Godwing!-
The old man said. Crow got up and bow to the man, then shook his hand, with somewhat of a smile on his face.
-Thank you sir, I am indeed please to hear it! -
-Then, you will receive everything on the award ceremony, thank you, I believe you will bring great things to our society!-
Crow nodded again and discussed with the teacher again, before the old man went away, Crow fell back into the couch and let out a long sigh.
-Over..finally!-
"That's great!"
Risa beamed and clapped her hands as the man left, finally allowing herself to come out of the subservient little shell she'd been keeping up around other people. "Congratulations, Master Crow," she said with a broad smile, nodding at him.
Je lift back his head to look at her, she had so much energy which was a quality he liked about her.
-Thanks...well, the ceremony won't be before the end of the month so...for now, we can go back to the manor...-
He said. He stood back up and motioned for Risa to follow her. On his way back, many students congratulated him, he nodded at them with a weak smile and they made their way back to the carriage, still waiting for them in front of the university. They made their way back home where he was welcome by his father, looking at him.
-Well?-
-I have my Major...that shouldn't be a surprise...-
His father nodded very seriously.
-Good...that is a relief...you did well...-
That was the first time Crow had been praised by his father, he looked at him, surprised and nodded, then walked off toward the lab.
Risa trailed along after him quietly, though she was still grinning and bouncing slightly with excitement for her employer.
She grew significantly more subdued when the stood in front of his father though. The man intimidated her, she couldn't help it. She gave him a nod and a quick curtsy as she followed Crow to the lab.
Folding her arms, she ventured quietly, "Don't you want to do something to celebrate? This is a big deal, right?"
Back to the lab, Crow turned around as Risa suggested they celebrate. He looked at her, raising an eyebrow. He had never really celebrated anything, it was a waste of time to him. But at the sight of overhapiness in the girl's demeanor, he couldn't help it, tough he had no idea as to how he could do that.
-Celebrating huh...well..I suppose we could, what do you do to celebrate?-
He asked, curious about it. He sat back in one of the couch, still in his uniform, his slender figure showed nicely.
"Weeeell..." Risa hesitantly perched on the arm of the couch. "On our birthdays Mama always makes me and Kenai our favorite meal. And in the last year or so Papa will sometimes take me out for a drink."
But of course she didn't know if that would appeal to someone of Crow's social standing, who had fine food and drink whenever he wanted.
Crow looked at her for a moment.
-Favorite drink and meal huh?...Our mother never cooked for us...and I doubt she would be trying anytime soon...-
He said. Going out for a drink, well, he already had his share from yesterday so it was not exactly the best idea. He knew sometimes his brothers would hold parties, bringing friends from school and other things, but Crow didn't had any friends, nor anyone that close.
-Hmm...well...I must admit, I find myself in a corner here...such a simple task that I can't even think of how to handle to begin with! My...-
He was thinking, the furrowing on his eyebrow was showing how intensely he was trying to come up with an idea.
Risa laughed. Without thinking, she reached over to smooth her hand over his hair. "Well, don't hurt yourself," she chuckled. "It was just an idea, you don't have to if you don't want to."
Crow looked at her as she touch his hair. But he was more vexed by the fact she was thinking he could hurt himself while trying to find an idea. He slowly pushed her hand away.
-Well...then if we are not, why don't we get back to practicing your powers hmm...those rocks aren't gonna move by themselves....And tomorrow, I'll be showing you how to take care of the gardens..-
He said, looking at her very seriously.
She bit back a small groan and resisted the urge to roll her eyes, then gave him a bright smile and jumped to her feet.
"Alright, let's get started then." Gods, did the man even know how to have fun?
He nodded as they were heading back toward the field they were practicing the other day. The elementals hadn't budge from their spot and were waiting. Crow wasn't the kind to have fun, his fun were in searching for new things and in experimenting, but very few understood him.
As they reached the field, they would have around an hour or two to practice before supper, so might as well make the best of it.
-Hmm...well, if you do well, I'll show you something nice...I suppose...that'll be the celebration...-
It seemed like he had an idea.
"Something nice?" Risa glanced at him curiously, her interest piqued. She nodded determinedly and reached out a hand toward the rocks.
Okay. You can do this, Ryss, just focus. Focus...
The smallest rock started to tremble, then rolled a few feet forward. And another rock she hadn't really been paying attention to shuddered and lifted into the air. Risa gasped, taken by surprise, and her concentration broke.
Crow tough, took noticed of it. A smirk showed on his face.
-Ohh...are we more willing today? Hmm...I suppose rewards are a way of giving motivation hmm...-
He said slowly. He was taking note in a small book and kept watch.
Risa was panting lightly, but she was flushed and smiling. "Okay. Okay, I can do this," she said aloud.
Again she raised a hand and focused, reaching deep into herself to access her magic. This time she managed to get both rocks into the air- barely, but she managed it.
Once again, the young man took note but this time, he seemed pleased as he show a smile, a genuine one. He didn't spoke so to not break Risa's concentration.
Once she was done, he clapped his hand.
-Hmm, good job! Very well!-
He said. The second rock was a bit larger then the first one, so that she manage to get them both a very good progress.
-Perhaps I should reward you more often!-
He said, grinning a little.
Flushed and breathing a littler heavier than normal, Risa beamed at him. "Thanks!" She blushed a bit and added with a shake of her head, "You don't need to...reward me or anything though. I'm happy to be learning. I never knew I could do something like this!"
It was so much more interesting than shining and shaping stones.
-I'm happy to hear that, learning should be one's priority because it can lead to so many new experiences!-
He said. As they practice, it was getting late and soon, it was time for supper. Crow stopped the exercise there.
-That's gonna be enough for now..we should get something to eat...-
He said. He started to head back, dismissing the elementals this time.
Now feeling quite thoroughly drained but nonetheless pleased, Risa nodded and followed after him. "Yeah, I'm starving!" she chirped. Some of her natural, cheerful personality was starting to assert itself now that she was growing more comfortable around him.
He didn't mind her been so cheerful, but somehow, he felt like teasing her.
-So...no milord anymore? -
He said, on a reprimanding tone as he glance over her with somewhat of a grin trying to be a serious expression. They made it back to the manor and Crow asked a servant to bring them supper to the lab. He had enough passed time with the rest of his family.
He had a feeling they would want to talk about marriage and other irrelevant things.
"Oh!" Risa squeaked and went very red. "F-forgive me, milord. I, uh, I guess I got carried away."
She cleared her throat and ducked her head, too flustered to realize he was teasing her as she followed him docilely back to the lab.
Seen her reaction, he started to laugh, frankly, his laugh was somewhat refreshing, because it wasn't fake, as he was amused. Crow was one to be true to his own feelings, so, even if he wouldn't mean it, he was honest.
They made it back to the lab. He entered and closed the door behind them, then went to one of the couch and sat down.
-I was...merely teasing you...don't be so tense but...don't forget your manners with the rest of my family, my father might not take it as easy as I do...-
"O-oh..." Risa's blush deepened and she bit her lip, now thoroughly embarrassed.
But also just a little bit pleased that he seemed comfortable enough to tease her. "I'll remember that," she said slowly. Testing the limits a bit, she ventured, "Does that mean...I can be a little less formal with you then?"
-Hmm...-
He looked at her for a moment, tilting his beautiful head on the side, his black eyes observing her for a moment before answering.
-It depends...if it's just the two of us...I don't really mind...in front of others...let's keep it professional shall we?-
His voice was softer then usual. Their meal was soon delivered and they sat at the table once more. This time, pork was on the menu, with mashes potatoes, cheese and fruits. There was a vegetables soup to start. He took out a small bottle of wine and poured some into two cups, then put the bottle away.
-Just enough for a toast...shall we? To my Major...and to your progress!-
He lift his cup to her.
She smiled and nodded at him in acceptance. "Yessir, milord, sir," Risa chirped, feeling a little cheeky.
She lifted her own glass to toast him in return. "Congratulations, Master Crow," she said quietly, eyes glinting rather prettily and quite without her say-so.
He smiled back and emptied his cup without filling it back. He wouldn't do the same mistake. The wine tasted good, it was fruity with just well-seasoned. He started to eat, his manners impeccable. The food was as good as usual. He didn't need a feast to celebrate, nor did he felt like it. And he doubted his father would care much about that. Tough, they were interrupted by his mother, which knocked at the door.
She came to congratulate him, but seen they were eating, she simply told him and went away. No one else came to disturb them after.
Risa tensed just slightly when Crow's mother appeared. She still wasn't quite sure how comfortable she was around the other members of his family.
Once she'd left the girl relaxed and started to pick at her food. "I can't believe you eat like this every day," she said with a quiet chuckle. "Just a few bites and I'm already full, everything's so rich."
Crow looked at her a bit surprised.
-Is...is that so? -
He looked at his own plate. He was use to eat that quantity, but he knew he didn't even eat half of what his brothers did. He had always thought that he wasn't eating a lot.
-I thought this was pretty meager...hmm...-
He found himself thinking again.
"Well, I mean..." She shrugged. "I suppose it depends on what you're used to." That, and she never had much of an appetite when she was nervous.
Which apparently she'd been a lot recently.
-Well, eat what you can...it's fine if you don't finish up...-
He said. He took the time to finish his meal, by that time, it was already night time. He was full as well and looked outside.
-Hmm...tell me, do you have any pretty dresses?-
He asked, looking back at her. Leaning on his palm while looking at her with his deep black eyes.
Risa almost choked on her last bite of food in surprise. "Um- ahem. I-I have a few... Nothing like as fancy as your mother or sister, but a couple nicer things for festivals and stuff."
She tilted her head at him. "Why?"
-I see...good then, get one of those ready for tomorrow...I' taking you to the theater to see a Ballet!-
He said with a grin. He wasn't one to usually do this, but he had seen a few in his younger years and had found it quite interesting. Something about how they dance and the music made him enjoy these shows.
Her eyes widened. "Wait- really?"
Risa's face lit up, brown eyes getting a gleam of gold in her excitement- which was something she'd never actually noticed that they did. She bit her lip, beaming. "We've never had the money to do something like that before. Thank you!"
Observing her eyes, he noticed the little beam of gold, but did not comment and simply took note of it. He knew ballet were not something common folk could just attend to so easily. He was glad it made her happy. Because he didn't had any other ideas. It was a relief.
-Good...then, let's call it a night...it's already late...-
He said. He was done with his food and got up. A bath, then off to sleep.
"Yessir!" Risa bounce to her feet and gave him a jaunty little salute as she made for the door. "Good night then. Oh..."
She paused, bit her lip, then turned to face him and asked a little sheepishly, "I don't suppose you could point in the direction of the servants' baths?"
-Ahh hmm...no, you won't be using that...-
He said. He got up and motion for her to follow.
-You'll be using the main one...as I said...you are my assistant, not a servant...-
They reached another area and he show her to a door. He called for a maid, then said.
-This young lady would like to take a bath...please show her to it...-
He waved good night at Risa, and left her with the maid. Which bowed slightly to her.
-This way please...-
She opened the door and led her inside. The bath was huge and built in the ground, it felt more like a small pool then a bath. Hot water was already poured in.
Risa blinked in surprise, both at the bath itself and at the fact that she was allowed to use it.
"Ah, thank you," she said to the maid with an almost guilty little curtsy. She waited for the other woman to leave, then stripped out of her uniform and slipped into the water.
"Oh sweet goddess..." The hot water was like heaven- she hadn't even realized how tense she was. She would have been perfectly content to spend the rest of the night there.
The water was hot and warm, also perfume with a very light lavender scent. At the edge of said bath, laid a pile of fluffy and large towel for her to dry herself later. Some bottle were also close to her, shampoo of different perfume for the hair. A soap in a golden holder was at her disposal with smaller towel to wash herself up.
The maid had told her she wouldn't be far if she needed her.
Risa spent a good long while pampering herself in the bath- she'd never had a chance to do something so luxurious before, and she didn't want to waste it.
When she was done, she climbed out of the water and wrapped herself in an insanely fluffy towel with a contented sigh, gathering up her discarded clothes. She poked her head out of the door to the bath and quickly started scurrying back to her room.
Next time she would really have to bring a change of clothes with her.
During that time, Crow was also enjoying a bath on is own, in another room. Scrubbing himself well and washing his hair, until he was done. He took the time to relax in the warm water, almost falling asleep there.
And with a long white robe, used as a pajama, he went to his room, climbed into bed and quickly fell asleep. It promised to be a good day.
Finding her room much more quickly than she actually expected to, Risa hung the towel on the door handle and changed into a light nightgown. She crawled into bed with a smile and curled up under the covers, asleep in seconds.
The night was calm, as usual. Morning came and the sun ray came to wake her up. The hung towel was gone, probably taken by one of the maid.
On his side, Crow was still deep asleep, the curtains of his room always close, unless he observing the stars.
Risa was up with the sun, sorting through her clothes. As she'd told Crow, she didn't have any fancy gowns, but she had a few nicer dresses.
She chose a gold and green affair that hugged her curves a bit more than her mother deemed strictly appropriate, but she found she rather liked. Brushing off her skirts, she slipped out into the hall and made her way over to knock on Crow's door.
Hearing the knock on the door, Crow slowly opened his eyes. Usually, the maid wouldn't wake him up, so it could only be a member of his family or Risa. The first one didn't seemed plausible, so he came to the conclusion that it was probably the latest.
Had he overslept? He got out of bed, still in his night robe and headed for the door, his hair a mess and his eyes half open. He opened it slightly.
-Yes....?-
He asked, with a yawn.
"Oh." Risa's eyes widened and she flushed. "I, um...what time is it?" She actually hadn't realize how early it was.
"I'm sorry, I must've...ahaha...ha..."
Crow looked at her, his eyes widened a little seing her dress like that. It wasn't the fancy dress he'd seen in bal, but it was still nice enough. But it was still early.
-It's early....and the ballet ain't before after diner...so...-
He yawned again.
-If you don't mind...I'll go back to sleep...-
He said.
-You...might wanna do something with your hair...can ask ...a....maid...*yawn*
He closed the door and returned to his bed. His mind was a bit fuzzy from sleepiness.
"R-right."
Risa was very red now and she scurried back into her room. Perching in front of a mirror on the dresser, she tugged lightly at her hair. It really was rather boring, just laying there...
Alright. She may as well try to get to know the rest of the household, right? She set off to find a maid.
As she went out of her room, she found herself alone in the corridor, but as she explored a bit, she would quickly find a maid, which was walking along the corridor.
-Is...the young miss looking for something?
The maid asked the girl. Probably the maid had already catch eye of her before and was worried she may venture somewhere she didn't had to.
"Um, yes." Risa shifted uncomfortably from foot to foot. "I, ah, I was wondering if you might know someone who may be able to...help me with my hair?" she asked quietly, cheeks flushed with embarrassment.
The maid looked at her and seemed relieved. She turned her expression into a smile and nodded.
-Of course, was there something in particular that you wished for your hair? I can help you with it...but why don't we go back to your room first...-
The maid said as she started heading back with Risa toward her room.
She followed, a little relieved. "Ah, well...I'm afraid I'm not very up to date on these sorts of things- popular styles and stuff, I mean. I usually just keep it in a braid," she admitted sheepishly.
The maid looked at her, and they entered Risa's room.
-Well...a braid is just fine for a work day...unless you had some sort of special event?-
She raised an eyebrow, waiting for the young girl's response.
"Um..." Risa bit her bottom lip. "Cr- Master Crow said something about going to a ballet this evening. I've never actually been, I'm not sure what's appropriate."
She kept her eyes fixed shyly on her feet.
The maid looked at her, as if she couldn't believe it.
-Well, that's...how lucky you are!-
The maid said. She stepped back a little and looked at her.
-I suppose the dress will do, your her assistant, so it's better if you don't stand out too much...but we can give your hair something a little nicer...-
She said. She took a brush and motion for her to sit, before starting to work on her hair. She would start by making three braid, starting from the front and leaving only a few threads of hair free, then tighten them at the back of her head into a knot on top. The twisted braids were quite beautiful and looked pretty. She curled the front thread she had left free and made sure they were neat and would hold on.
-There!
Risa blinked at her reflection. "Oh my," she murmured, turning her head from side to side to view the rather elegant style. The maid was very good.
And she was...actually pretty. Her mother was always nagging her to do something with her appearance, show off her features a bit, but she'd never really listened to her before. She twisted to beam at the maid. "Thank you! Miss..."
She flushed. "Oh, I'm sorry, I never actually got your name." She sprang to her feet and held out her hand. "I'm Risa, by the way. There's a proper introduction."
The maid looked at her, then bowed slightly.
-I'm Karine...and it was nothing..but I must be on my way.-
She shook Risa's hand quickly.
-I have task to attend to, I hope you enjoy your time with the young master...-
On that, she left the room quickly, leaving Risa in her beaming light. She did looked pretty and the style was fitting her features very well. It was about that time that Crow finally woke up and got out of bed.
"Pleasure to meet you, Karine."
Risa hovered in her room after the maid had left, nibbling her lower lip pensively. She suddenly had a strange feeling of...in-between-ness. She wasn't a servant, technically, so it seemed they would treat her with a certain amount of deference. And she certainly wasn't on level with Crow and his family, that was abundantly clear to her.
So...just where did she fit?
As Crow finally decided to clothes himself, he took a look at the mirror, for probably the first time in days...or even week. Maybe he should put on some effort if he was going to the theater. It wasn't everyday that he was going out.
He sighed and walked to his wardrobe, eventually choosing among the clothes his mother had taken the time to call for him. Ones of his size and not the oversized one he usually wore. He didn't wanted to wear his uniform either so he picked a set and proceeded to clothe himself. Looking at the mirror again, he was wearing a pair of long black leather pants with knee high long black boots with straps on them. A blue and white tunic with a red tissue belt at the waist. A thin leather belt was set over the red one, holding purse and other necessities. He also put on a black short jacket, which gave him some style to say the least. But his hair remained messy, even if he tried slicking them backward, they were too wavy to obey with such simple methods.
It took Risa longer than she would have liked to shake herself out of her pensive mood, but once she managed it she made her way hesitantly back to Crow's door.
"Excuse me?" She knocked lightly. "Ah- are you awake?"
When Risa knocked back at his door, Crow walk to it and opened it.
-Ahh..yes I am...I was about to call you for breakfast...-
He said as he walked back toward the mirror, trying to get his hair right, there was nothing to do, they were just as rebellious as he was for not wanting to be a fighter. Crow's room was bigger then Risa, two wardrobes, a walk in, a huge mirror, a bed fit to welcome five people or so, the carpet under their feet was fluffy and thick, so that one could almost sleep on the floor and rest well enough. The windows were huge and the curtain were still closed.
He hadn't pick up on Risa's appearance yet.
Risa stepped hesitantly into the room and looked around curiously with a murmured, "I see."
She focused on Crow and smiled slightly. "Here, let me help," she said without thinking, and moved forward to run her fingers easily through his hair.
"It's never going to lay flat, milord. You're just going to have to work with it," she chuckled. She managed to get him fairly presentable and took a step back, nodding.
"You- you clean up very well, Master Crow."
He let her do. His hair had no master after all. He frowned a bit when she ''attempted'' to make a compliment, maybe.
-Clean up very well? What's that suppose to mean?-
He raised an eyebrow, did she meant he usually didn't do it? He put his hands on his hips, tilting his head to the side.
-I take a bath everyday I'll have you know....-
"No, no-"
Risa raised a hand to cover her mouth and try to hide her giggles. "I meant you look nice, all dressed up. It was meant to be a compliment."
Biting at her lower lip, she leaned forward and tousled his hair a bit more. It was probably never going to lie flat, but she at least managed to get it into a semi deliberately messy sort of look.
He blushed a little, coughing off his embarrassment.
-Ah...I see..thank you...-
He said, looking away, then eventually glancing back at the girl. Noticing finally the dress and the hairdo. She looked ravishing. In all her simplicity, he felt that she was much more authentic and beautiful then most of those girls in these fancy dress and over makeup he would see at some bals.
-You...you look well too...-
He manage to mumble.
Risa felt her cheeks heat and ducked her eyes. "Th-thank you," she murmured, a small smile curving her lips.
She cleared her throat and took a step back. "Well, um- I'm assuming there's still some chores for me to be doing today?"
-Well..since you are already dress and all...there is no point in doing chores...but I do have a few books that you could read...-
He said. He thought for a moment, then nodded.
-And I can start showing you around the gardens as well, we won't be doing any manual work tough....wouldn't want to dirty these clothes now would we?-
He said.
She smiled and nodded. "Right, sir. More books tot he list- oh."
Risa clasped her hands behind her back and straightened her shoulders a bit. "I got through two of those other books, I just have that last one left."
He nodded.
-I see, then why don't you just do that for today...I'll also be in some lectures...-
He said. He then headed out, motioning for her to follow, he then called for breakfast, once again in the lab, then headed to the lab itself. He sat in one of the couch and took out a few books he wanted to read.
"Alright."
Risa fell into step behind him, as was becoming habit, and took a seat when they reached the lab. She picked up a book and immediately started reading, burying her nose in the pages.
They were only interrupted by the maid bringing in the breakfast, which was delicious, as the other were. After that, they kept reading until it was time to go. Crow closed his book and put it on the side, then looking at the time, he nodded slowly.
-Well, it's about time, are you ready?-
The young man asked as he got up and stretched a bit.
"Hm?" Risa glanced up from her book, a little distracted. "Oh, yes, of course!" She jumped to her feet and brushed at her skirts, then smiled at him with a happily chirped, "Ready when you are, milord."
He nodded.
-Then let's be on our way...-
He walked out of the room with Risa on his tail. They reach for the entrance and waited for the carriage, and they were back on the road to join the Music Hall Theater, where they would assist to the ballet.
They moved on trough the high class part of the city and eventually reached the place. Crow got out of the carriage, extending his hand to Risa to help her down, as per the gentleman rule. They were out in public so he was trying to at least show some ''Respect'' toward that restricted society.
Offering her his arm, he venture into the theater and bought two tickets for the show. These were good places so they walked in. The place was huge, they had the luck to be in one of the best balcony, admiring the show from over the crowd. He sat there with her. The hall could sit almost 300 people and about 100 more in the various balcony and second floor. The stage was also grand and for now, the red curtains were closed.
People were starting to gather in the various seat. All from noble families and other rich estate.
Risa was stuck speechless by the place. She clung to Crow's arm as she looked around with unabashedly wide eyes.
"Oh my goodness," she breathed. "This is...wow."
Her reaction made Crow chuckle a bit, he found it rather funny how the girl was so easily impress, but then again, he had never been poor or unable to do whatever he felt like.
-Well...wait until you see the show!-
He said, grinning. They would wait for another ten minutes or show before the room was filled and the show started. At first, there was narrator, standing in the middle of the stage, in front of the closed curtain.
-Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for coming tonight! It is with the greatest pleasure that we present you tonight with the pride of our ballet! The Soothing Lake! Please enjoy!-
The man went away and the curtains opened on a small duo, the orchestra started to play and the show began.
Risa was utterly entranced. She lifted her hands to cover her mouth and fixed wide, glinting eyes on the stage with fiercely rapt attention.
Unconsciously, she reached over to touch his leg lightly, just barely murmuring, "Thank you."
He glance back at her and simply smiled softly, then turned back his gaze upon the dancer. The orchestra music was filling the air, strong, powerful, reaching them straight in the heart. Their spirit lift as if they were also dancing. It felt magical, enchanting. It went on smoothly, soft like a river soothing sound, then roared like the thunder in a storm. Waves of sounds washing and crashing upon the shore.
Then, as if lingering into a forest, deep sounds and high pitch flutes played by mystical beast. Celebrating the renewal of spring, it all felt so poetic, and while at that, the scenery changed on the stage and the dancers, ever more energic, kept their rythme in perfect synchronisation. Years of practice paying off as their movements were ever more grand and incredible.
Their costumes appealing to the eyes, soft silk sparkling under the light. Taking the whole scene like a playground. The crowd was even more seduced.
She was unable to tear her eyes away from the stage. Risa found herself wrapped up in the story of the music and the dance.
She was suddenly and powerfully reminded of a childhood dream and sighed slightly, a small, soft smile curving her lips as that gold glint flickered into her eyes again.
It went on like this for more then an hour, and once it was over, the crowd got up as the dancers joined together on the stage to form a long line and bow to the applauding crowd. Crow got up and started clapping his hand in a fancy manner.
It took a few minutes before the crowd stopped cheering and the artist went back behind the curtain. Crow sat back, looking at Risa.
-So...how did you like it?
The girl jumped to her feet and applauded enthusiastically, beaming and laughing quietly in sheer delight.
"That was amazing," she murmured, turning to look at him with wide, shining eyes. "Thank you, milord. Really- thank you!"
She dipped her head and curtsied.
-Well, that was worth it..-
He smiled. The show was over and the crowd was leaving and so did they. As they existed the place, they were given looks and stare. Some wondered who that girl by Godwing's side was. The young man, despite not making much appearance in public, was well known among the nobles. Crow didn't pay them any attention.
They made their way back to the manor, it was past supper time and the household was quiet, except from the servants working.
Risa was practically bouncing with excited energy as they came onto the estate grounds again. "I guess everyone is busy," she mused in a happy whisper, glancing around at the emptiness.
-Well...it's already late...my mother is probably already asleep, my sister as well, my two brothers are maybe drinking somewhere in town...and my father is probably still working in his office...-
He said as they walked back to the lab. He fell into one of the couch and sighed. He had enjoyed himself no doubt but it was still tiring. He yawned a little, he wasn't really hungry.
-I think you made a good impression...people were looking at you...-
He said, glancing back at her.
"They were?" Her eyes got rather big and she blinked at him. She hadn't even noticed.
"Um- I-I hope I didn't embarrass you, sir," she murmured, looking at the floor and fiddling with her skirts self consciously.
He looked surprised but then shook his head.
-No...not at all...you were fine, don't worry about it...-
He said. He took back one of the book he was reading. It was almost Risa's day off. That made him think that he should prepare her paiement soon.
"Right. Good." She smiled in relief and glanced up at him.
Cautiously, Risa perched on one of the arms of the couch. "Don't you think you should get some rest, sir?" she suggested quietly, nodding at the book he held. "It wouldn't kill you to take some time off."
-I don't like wasting time...and there is just so much to learn...-
He spoke, but he did put the book back on the table.
-Tough...I guess your right...I shoulder probably get some rest...and you as well...tomorrow we'll be heading into the gardens...-
He said. He sighed and got up, then waved good night to Risa before heading to his room.
"Yes, sir. Good night, sir."
Risa nodded and smiled at him as she made her way to her own room. She changed into a nightgown and hung her dress up with a small sigh, then flopped back onto the bed.
She curled up under the covers with a smile and drifted off.
Night passed, and morning came. But this time, she wasn't woken up by the soft ray of the light, but by the sounds of people walking in front of the room, in the corridors.
There seemed to be a lot of people.
Risa came to the waking world blinking and mumbling soft complaints. Gods, couldn't Kenai keep it down?
Wait a minute.
She sat up and glanced at the door with a furrowed brow. She should probably get dressed- this sounded like it might be stressful.
It was morning alright, the sun was up, but as it was, Risa had woken a little late. Probably due to the excitation she had experience the day before.
Crow wasn't so happy. He had been woken up by his sister and all the people she had brought in order to make him one particularly outfit for the bal and the young man didn't found it funny. The crowd of people were makeup artist, hair stylist, some jewel maker showing case of the most fine jewelry, and of course, haute couture ladies and man fighting over how the young man would be dress.
In all that commotion, Crow wasn't alone, his brother, Martin was also in it, but he, on the contrary, seemed to be enjoying the attention.
Dressing quickly and throwing her hair into its customary braid- why not, it wasn't as if they were going somewhere special today, right?- Risa quickly hurried from her room to Crow's and stumbled in with a cursory knock.
"Sorry, I overslept. Won't happen again, I promise-" She drew up short at the sight of all the people and her cheeks went red. "Ah- perhaps I should just come back later," she squeaked, and tried to beat a hasty retreat.
-Oh, there you are Risa! Good timing, come with me!-
It was Crow's sister Lenny. She had put a hand on the girl's shoulder and was all smiling.
-You will need a dress too! Since you're coming to the bal! My I didn't think you were that bold! Ha ha! But I've heard my brother has taken you to the theater!-
She was gleaming.
-Has he finally started to open himself to the world!-
She push Risa into the fray and she was soon surrounded by other people. Crow looked at his sister.
-Oye! What do you think your doing? I understand for me...but why does it have to be in my room?-
-Because it's the biggest! Don't be mean now! You have plenty to try on!-
"Wait- what- but I- oh dear..."
Risa was pulled into the mass of people and instinctively gravitated toward Crow. "Wh-why am I here?" she asked out of the corner of her mouth.
Crow was grunting, now very happy. He looked at Risa.
-I suppose, the same as me...when my sister gets idea, there is no stopping her...she got in mind to play doll with me and here it is...trying to get me to wear whatever she fancy!-
He sighed.
-Since you're often with me...I suppose she decided to include you as well..just bear with it...if you can....hopefully it won't take too long...-
As she was told so, Risa was taken away to another mirror where people took her size, shifting piece of clothes of various color next to her, seen which would fit better. And Lenny ever so happy, was beaming trought the room while giving her opinion on various things.
-Well, you'll have to be at your best to find yourself a girl!-
She said.
"Oh. Right. Of course. Well, perhaps I could just slip away-"
Risa was dragged away before she could even finish the sentence, squeaking and protesting quietly as she was jostled around, measured, turned this way and that.
"Should I really be going to this ball?" she asked with a hint of desperation. "I mean- I-I'm not sure I'll be doing any good, really."
-Oh oh, what are you talking about my dear Risa! Of course you must come! I think i've taken a liking to you! And I think Crow will be more then happy to have you around! As his assistant, you need to make sure everything is perfect for him! Thus, your presence is required!-
Lenny said, as she was adjusting her own bow. All in all, it took two hours before they were finally done. Lenny had handpicked a dress for Risa and chosen what clothes Crow would be wearing. They left the room. As soon as they did, Crow let himself fall to the ground, on his knees and sighed. One long desperate sigh.
-Over...finally.....I'm sorry I've drag you in this...-
He said, turning to Risa.
"Oh, it's- ow!" Risa winced as she knelt next to him and her new corset pinched her sides. "It's fine," she muttered with a rather wry and crooked smile. "She's just...excited."
She hesitated a moment, then leaned forward and rubbed his shoulders lightly, comfortingly. "It's alright. It's just one ball, right?"
He lift his eyes toward her, not moving from the rubbing.
-Yeah...one bal...but also where I'll have to find a bride...-
He didn't look so hopeful. He wasn't really into finding love and having to raise a family, but it seemed like his father would take advantage of everything he could to bring new alliance into the Godwing family. He passed his hand over his face then sighed and got up.
-Alright...let's get into more....comfortable clothes and get ready to work...We've wasted enough time as it is...-
He said. Chasing Risa out of the room to get ready.
-Join me back at the lab in ten!-
"Right. Yessir!"
For some reason, as Risa scurried away to change back into working clothes, she found the idea of Crow attempting to romance some handful of young, high society ladies circling around in her head. It was an intriguing thought, and not an entirely comfortable one.
She forced the thought from her mind and hurried back to the lab.
Crow was back in his oversized clothes and he looked much more comfortable in them. Even tough they were clearly not his size.
-Good...we'll be heading to the gardens...-
With that, he took a basket and gave one to Risa, then they walk off and wander into the backyard, reaching for Crow's personal garden, in which he was growing flowers and herbs of all kind.
-I'll be showing you which plants are used for what and how to take care of them...because I'll be needing you to take care of them or fetch them for me when I'll be working with alchemy...so listen well...-
On that, he started. Telling her the name of the plants and some of their main property.
She accepted her basket and easily fell into step beside him, nodding along to his instructions as he talked.
"It's nice here," she noted quietly after a few moments. "It's...peaceful."
-Yes...the others don't bother me when I'm here...I've forbid them to come here after all...this is my personal garden...-
He said. He kept on instructing her on the variety of plant, then show her a small house, it was where all the equipment needed to take care of the plants were put.
-You'll find everything you need in there...now then, we'll be gathering some herbs...come with me....-
He went into another alley and eventually lay on his knees, putting the basket next to him.
-See those red herbs...their tips is blue, meaning it's matured enough to be taken...now, you want to take the whole thing, roots included so be careful...-
He handed her a very small shovel to dig around the herbs. As he started collecting them and showing her how to do so.
Risa nodded and knelt to do as he said. She paid special attention to each an every new herb- she actually kept a garden back home, but there were still a decent number of the plants that she was unfamiliar with.
They collected the herbs for a while, changing spot from time to time. It was done in silence, unless Crow had something to instruct her. They weren't disturb, like Crow had told her.
-So...why don't you tell me a bit about you huh...you've been around my house and my lifestyle but I don't know much about yours...mind sharing a bit?-
He asked, while pulling out another herb from the ground.
She sort of stuttered in her movements for a moment, then twisted to look at him with her head tilted to one side. A few strands of hair had come loose from her braid to hang around her face.
"Well...what do you want to know?" Risa sucked on her teeth, then offered, "I'm the opposite of you in a lot of ways, I guess. I only have one sibling, and I'm older. Um..." She cast about for something else to say.
He glanced at her, then returned to his work.
-Well..what about your family..the food you eat...what do you do for fun?...These kinda things...-
He said. He picked up another herb and put it in the basket, then swiped his brow, it was hot outside after all, and with all those clothes, no wonder he was hot.
-I'm curious...-
Risa was quiet for a few long moments.
"I like shepherd's pie," she said after a while. "I've never had much of a sweet tooth, but I love salty things. My little brother's name is Kenai, he's sixteen, two years younger than me."
She glanced at him out of the corner of her eye and gave him a lopsided smile, pulling a handkerchief from her skirts and handing it over. "You know, it might be cooler if you wouldn't wear all black. And maybe tried some clothes that actually fit."
After a moment, she added a rather belated, "Milord."
-Shepherd's pie huh...-
He had this once on a travel with his mother. They had stopped in a small village by a inn. That was what they were served. He could remember how the food felt so different from the one he had at home.
As she spoke about his clothes, he looked at her.
-I don't really like other color...and I can't carry anything in tight clothes...-
He said slowly. He was referring to the small bird skeleton hidden in his sleeves. And probably other things too. He had somewhat of a sad smile.
-I'm not exactly the pride of the family...you've seen my brothers...they are warriors...soldiers to the core and will soon become knights....it is like that in the Godwing family...but me...I'm so skinny people wonder if I even eat properly...-
He sighed. He wonder why he was telling her all this.
Risa frowned. She sat back a bit and looked at him.
"That doesn't mean you're not strong," she said quietly after a few moments. "Besides, I've seen brain triumph over brawn plenty of times."
Her nose crinkled and she added, "And I wouldn't put too much stock in shoulders. We'd always get these big, muscle-bound types coming in to the shop to buy something for the girl they were courting, and somehow they'd spend most of the time staring down the front of my dress." She scoffed. "Pigs."
Almost unconsciously, she reached out to touch his hand lightly and smiled. "I've never met someone who can do the things you do, Crow," she said softly, for the first time not using any sort of title.
Listening to her, he found himself starting to laugh, once again, that same refreshing and so honest laugh he had. It was true, his brothers didn't knew better then how to show their muscles. Oh true, they were good fighter, but they probably never fought zombies before.
He looked at her as her hand was lay on his.
-Well...I certainly never met someone who would say these things to me...honestly, thank you Risa...-
He smiled. Then looked at the basket, they were full now.
-Alright...let's head back, were gonna grind the herbs...-
She beamed at him, eyes glinting. "Yessir!" She nodded and gave him a jaunty little salute, climbing to her feet.
"Oh, and for what it's worth- I like you much better than your brothers, Master Crow."
He nodded slowly and they were on their way back to the manor. Once back at the lab, he put the herbs aside and called for a light diner, they would be working all the same. He showed her how to mash the herbs into fine powder and gave her some pot to put said powder in.
Risa set to work easily, falling into a rhythm as she did. She started humming to herself absently as she worked.
They worked together for a while. Then, the usual, supper, some more work, and a good night sleep. It went like this for the rest of the week, they were working in the gardens, Crow showing her how to take care of the plant, teaching her their properties and how to use them. He also showed her some medical herbs that she could find almost anywhere, they were often use to counter poison or help down a fever.
As days passed, it was finally Risa's day off.
Risa took advantage of her day off to sleep in, waking lazily and taking her time getting dressed. She left her hair uncharacteristically down- because she knew her mother preferred it- and made her way out of her room and down the hall.
Then she hesitated. Very slowly, she moved to Crow's door and knocked.
"Milord? Are you awake?"
She heard footsteps and the door opened. Crow was standing there, in his usual clothing, he was holding a book.
-Yes?...-
He asked, looking at her.
"Well, I-" Risa stopped and bit her lip, hesitating. Goddess, what was she doing?
Oh well, she'd practically committed already. She took a deep breath and said with a soft smile, "Sir, I was wondering...if you're not busy, would you like to come home with me for lunch?"
He'd been teaching her about his world for the last few days, she though she may as well offer to return the favor.
Crow raised an eyebrow at her proposal. She was inviting him...for lunch? At her house, shouldn't she warn her family first tough? But he had no idea if that was proper or not. It wasn't as if he didn't had time, his Major was done and he had no more lessons to attend to.
After a few seconds of hesitation, he finally nodded.
-Sure...why not...-
He said, as he walked back in to put the book down on it shelf.
She positively beamed at him. "Alright then. Um, good."
She waited for him in the doorway, peering curiously into the room. "It's much quieter in here than the last time," she noted jokingly.
-Aye...they don't usually come in my room...but it's true it's the biggest...-
He said. He had so many books, even in his room. He looked at himself in the mirror, would that do. His hair were still a mess, but it looked fine. He tuck on his clothes a bit then walked out.
-Ready when you are..-
He said, waiting for her to lead the way.
Risa nodded and chirped, "Follow me, then."
She practically bounced out of the manor and through the gates, giving the guards a smile and a nod. She was starting to recognize them now, at least the two who were on duty at the moment.
They looked at the duo pass the gates with surprise, but did not comment. Crow followed her but at his pace. He wasn't in a hurry but the energetic girl was two steps ahead. He wondered what was so fun about diner that could put her in such a good mood.
He walked with her until they reach her home.
Risa led him around to the small door in the back of the shop, which opened onto a flight of stairs that ascended directly into her family's home above the store.
"Ma! I'm home," she called up the stairs, slipping her shoes off and starting up. "I brought a guest for lunch.
"Ryss!"
Kenai came barreling down the stairs and tackled her in a hug. Risa "ooffed!" as he lifted her up exuberantly.
"Put me down you ass!" Even though he was two years her junior, her brother was considerably larger than her.
"Not a chance." Still holding her over his shoulder, Kenai tossed Crow a friendly wave. "Hey. You must be the rich kid you hired my sister.
"Kenai!" Risa exclaimed, flushing furiously. "Be polite!"
This sure looked like a small house, as they entered from the back door into a flight of stairs, he looked up. They were really living over the shop, and not in a separate building. He was under the impression that this would be quite the experience.
But before they could climb up, they were met by Risa's older brother. He then raised an eyebrow as he was called a ''rich kid''. He was used to be call master, milord, Sir and other of the kind, but never had he been called a kid before, not even by his father.
-Good meeting you...I suppose you are Risa's kid brother...-
He said, ignoring the comment for now. Was that common to stand in the stairs to greet each other, he wondered.
-And yes...I am the person who hired your sister...-
"Kenai! You be nice to your sister, she's the only one you've got."
Risa mother, a pretty woman who just barely looked her age, appeared at the top of the stairs with her fists planted on her hips. Kenai chuckled, but he didn't put Risa down until he'd climbed the stairs into the house.
"Hello, sweetling." Her mother hugged her and kissed her forehead, then shooed them both further inside. "Go an wash up. Papa's just closing up shop for his lunch break, he'll be here soon."
She turned to look at Crow with a smile and extended a hand. "A pleasure to finally meet you, sir. I'm Ilona Serrin."
Crow made his way up as the two others were dragged on. He slightly bow his head to the woman, Risa's mother. as she extended her hand, he did what any gentleman should do, he lowered himself to kiss her hand slightly.
-A pleasure to meet you as well milady...-
She was the Dame of the house, so she had to be treated with respect.
-My name is Crow Godwing...your daughter was kind enough to invite me for diner, I hope I am not intruding...-
He said, staying very polite.
Ilona arched an eyebrow, smiling. She seemed quite charmed. "Well, you seem like a decent young man. I won't lie, I've been a little worried about my daughter, being on her own in your house.
"Mama!" Risa- who had been wrestled into an armchair by her brother and was currently trying to elbow his ribs- scowled at her. "I'm not a child," she grumbled.
"And of course you're not intruding," her mother continued, evidently ignoring her. "It's not trouble to set one more place at the table. And it's good to know the sort of person who's taking care of our Risa."
Crow gave off a small smile and nodded.
-Thank you, that is very kind...-
He said as he looked at Risa. Right now, she was on her day off, and this was her house, he felt a bit awkward but tried his best not to cause any sort of discomfort.
-Well...Risa has been a great help so far, so I have to admit, I am quite please with her work.-
He said. He looked at Risa and her brother. He sure never did something of the like with his own siblings.
Ilona might have said something else, but just then the door swung open again and Risa's father came clomping up the stairs.
"Lola, I swear, if one more idiot comes in demanding a pearl pendent when everyone knows we have a shortage, I'm going to-"
"We have a guest, dear."
"Oh." He froze and blinked, then extended a hand to Crow. "Ah, yes, of course. I know you- you're the little lord who's hired Ryss."
Risa froze at the term "little lord" and finally managed to squirm free of Kenai's hold. "Why don't you sit down, Papa?" she offered quickly. "Kenai and I can set the table."
Crow cough a bit at the expression. ''Little lord'' was a bit much, but he prefered not to cause any tension and simply shook Risa's father hand.
-Ah...yes, I am Crow Godwing...a pleasure to meet you again sir...-
He said. He had already bought at Risa's father shop before and he clearly remember the man. Risa's family didn't had any servants to prepare the food for them, so he was curious as to how they did, but he knew that was perhaps not the time to ask for such things and he thought that it might be not very polite to do so.
He stayed up, unsure if he should sit or do something else. These were very uncommon things to him and he would usually just do as he pleased.
"Here, sit." Kenai beckoned Crow over as he helped his sister set the table. Their father took the chair at the head and Ilona was busy starting to dish food onto plates.
"Here, Mama, let me help."
"Smells delicious, Lola, as always."
"Kenai, quit trying to sneak bites!"
It was loud and lively and happy, and Risa somehow found herself sitting next to Crow as everyone took a seat once everything was properly set. "You doing okay?" she asked quietly, offering a sheepish little smile.
Crow nodded to Kenai and took the chair he was offered. There was some similitude, as to how the father would take the chair at the end of the table. Crow kept a straight pose, giving him that noble air he had when he was sitting with his family, unlike when he was alone with Risa.
He didn't speak unless spoken to and waited for the food to be served.
-Oh...yes...hmm, maybe I should have brought a bottle of wine as a thank you gift...-
He wondered, tilting his head on the side. His black hair falling off over his face again.
She smiled. "There's no need for that. I mean, I'm sure Papa wouldn't have said no, but it's really not necessary."
With the food served- a simple but savory stew and several different loaves of herbal bread- Ilona gestured for everyone to eat.
Crow nodded.
-Hmm....-
It seems Crow wasn't really convinced, but he didn't make any other comment and waited for everyone to start eating before doing so himself. It was far from the food he was getting back home, but it did smell good. As usual, his manners were perfect clean, even tough he didn't had the usual set of ustensiles to eat with.
Risa's family seemed bound and determined to ask as many questions as humanly possible over this meal, both of Risa herself and Crow: what work was she doing? Was she satisfactory? Where was she staying? Was she happy there?
"Guys, guys!" Risa waved her hands after when felt like a solid twenty minutes of non-stop questions. "Can we just eat? Please." She winced and mouthed, Sorry, at Crow.
Most of these questions were left for Risa to answer, so Crow didn't really mind it, but he did answer those that were directed at him.
-She is helping me out with various task, including gardening, herboristery and magical training...-
He said.
-She is doing a good job...-
He didn't entered in details. As for the other question, she left Risa answer. If she was happy or not, he didn't knew.
The meal seem to both drag and fly by, but soon enough Kenai and Risa were clearing the table and washing dishes while Ilona and her husband motioned for Crow to take a more comfortable seat.
Risa's mother brought a few glasses of wine, as she assumed was customary for such a guest. "So." She sat beside her husband. "I have to admit, I'm a little surprised someone such as yourself would come to our home simply at Risa's request."
So they did have wine. He felt a bit bad assuming that they wouldn't but didn't let it show on his face. They were running a jewel shop after all. He sat in a more comfortable chair, with Risa's parents. It did feel a bit strange but he still manage it.
Crow wasn't a social person, he passed most of his time in his room, lab or in the gardens. He tried to smile but felt awkward.
-Hmm...well, Risa was kind enough to invite me, and she had prove herself most diligent in her work, refusing would have been...rude would it not? And...I have to admit, I was also curious to meet her family...so here I am.-
He answered. He had the cup of wine in hand, thanking them for it.
"Well, it's just lovely to meet you, my lord," Ilona said with a nod and a smile. She spoke a bit differently from the rest of her family, a little more high class- "my lord" instead of "milord", and a distinct lilt to her voice.
"Right then." Risa bounced over and perched on the arm of her father's chair. She bent to kiss his temple and said with a quick smile directed at Crow, "I can take Master Crow back to his estate whenever he'd like, but I promise I'll come back."
"Oh, do. We miss you, Ryss." Her mother pouted a bit and stroked her daughter's arm lightly.
"I don't!" Kenai called form the kitchen with a cheeky grin. Risa stuck her tongue out at him.
Crow chuckle a bit at the pouting between Risa and her brother. This was so unfamiliar to him and it looked funny, like those comedy he enjoyed at the theater. He took a sip of his glass of wine. it was far from being what he was used to, but it was still enjoyable.
-Ah, if you'd rather stay with your family, I can go back on my own, but thank you.-
He said, nodding to Risa.
-This is your day off after all.-
Her expression softened just a little. "That's alright, mirlord. I was going to make some deliveries for Papa anyway, I can walk you home beforehand."
Crow nodded. He finished his cup. He didn't want to take too much time from Risa and it seemed she was still busy anyway.
-Alright then...-
He got up.
-It was a pleasure meeting you all.-
He said, giving a handshake to Risa's father and her brother, then follow with the same kiss on the hand for the lady.
-I shall be on my way...-
Risa's family chorused their own goodbyes, but Ilona grabbed her daughter's arm before she could move toward the stairs.
"Kenai can walk you to the door, I just want a quick word with my daughter," she said with a bright smile. Risa looked slightly surprised but unresistant.
"Yeah, sure." Her brother shrugged and tripped lightly down the stairs, gesturing for Crow to follow. Risa winced; he wasn't the most deferential person in the world.
Crow shrugged, he didn't mind. He followed Kenai to the stairs and at the door. He wouldn't meddle in her family affair.
Once outside, he simply waited for her, while looking around the area. it wasn't so bad, it was just very different from everything he usually had around him.
"So." Kenai crossed his arms and leaned against the door frame. He was eyeing Crow rather seriously all of the sudden. "Risa seems happy," he noted.
Arching an eyebrow, he said briskly, "Look, I get that you're a lord or whatever, but my sister has always been too trusting, and too shy to stand up for herself. If you hurt her- in any way- I'll make you pay." His expression smoothed into a friendly grin. "Understood?"
Risa appeared at the top of the stairs with a strange look on her face and sort of drifted down them in a little daze.
Crow looked at him, a bit surprised. This young man was protective of his sister, well, it was all good. That was something he didn't got from his elder. They would probably prefer to have him dead then alive, but still.
-Hmm...please believe that I have no intention of hurting her...I make sure her work is safe...-
He said, frowning this time. And been a lord didn't make excuse for such conduct. He wasn't sure what other way he might hurt her.
"Oh, she can handle her magic. It's you I'm worried about, milord," Kenai retorted, but just then Risa slipped through the door.
"Alright, we should be on our way then," she said brightly with a quick shake of her head. She gave her brother an odd look. "I'll see you in an hour or so, Kenai."
"Right." He leaned forward to kiss her cheek and ruffled her hair, making her glower and him laugh, before he disappeared back up the stairs with a quick, hard look for Crow.
-Worried about me?...-
He repeated, with a hint of surprise in his eyes and voice. Why would he be worried about him? Crow was taken a bit aback by that comment but did notice Kenai's glare. He simply stared back, raising an eyebrow.
He turned to Risa.
-ah...yes...let's....-
They made their way back to the manor but Crow was been lost in thoughts for the rest of the way. When he reached the gates, he turned toward Risa.
-Thanks, I'll be ok from here on, enjoy your day off...-
He went on.
"Yeah. Goodbye, sir, I'll see you in two days." Risa smiled and curtsied, but she was a little distracted. Mostly because he had seemed distracted.
She waved at the guards as she left, adjusting the strap of the bag over her shoulder that held the deliveries she was supposed to be making for her father.
During that time, Crow returned to his room and started on his new experiments. A little more dangerous ones, that he would keep for when Risa wasn't around. He would passed the two next days shut in his lab, while on the other side of the manor, the preparations for the bal were on their way.
Risa arrived the late at night before work started, greeting te guards and the maids she passed before slipping into her room. It had been nice spending time with her family, and she'd admit to a small twinge of homesickness, but she was also surprisingly eager to get back to work.
She didn't bother knocking on Crow's door, assuming he's either be asleep or reading.
Morning came in it's usual way. Crow was early that day, as he was already at his lab, working with his equipment. Smoke and various odors could be seen and smell from the entrance door. The thin young man was carefully working over his table, writing runes and other things down in a magical circle, while making a potion at the same time.
Risa held a handkerchief to get nose as she entered the lab.
"Morning, sir," she said with a small wave to Crow. "What am I doing first?"
-Oh Risa...good timing, would you mind getting me some herbs from the gardens...I'll need some Rosa lys and Kramanthium...you do remember which they are?-
He said, not even turning around, he seemed to be concentrated on the task he was performing. His hands were moving fast as he was making things work.
-Quickly now, don't dawdle...
"Yessir."
She scurried away to do as she was told, returning roughly ten minutes later with a basket of the herbs he'd requested. "Here you are."
Crow took a quick look at the herbs and nodded.
-Very good...now can you make them into powder while I finish this here please...-
He said.
-Put them in small pot after and give them to me...-
He added. There was still that question that always came back to his mind, about Risa's brother, something that really bothered him, perhaps the girl knew something. He had to ask, his curiosity was to great.
-Tell me Risa...would....would there be any reasons your brother should be...hmm...worried about me?...Did I leave a bad impression on your family perhaps?-
Setting eagerly to work, Risa actually took a moment to register his question.
When she did she blanched. "Wait, what? Oh no- did Kenai say something to you?" Blushing, she scowled and mumbled, "Damnit, I told him to be nice, he never listens to me..."
-He...looked like he was worried I would...hurt you or something...-
Crow added, finally putting the potion he had just finish aside. He turned his head toward her, inquisitive look in his eyes. He usually wouldn't really care but if somehow that led to misunderstanding, it could become a problem.
Risa's cheeks were positively flaming.
"Oh goddess." She groaned and buried her face in her hands. "Don't- don't pay any attention to him. He's just a little- well, really overprotective. Sorry."
-Hmm...I see...then if you say so, I'll pay it no mind...sorry if it bothered you...-
He said. He returned to his lab, trying to ignore Risa's reaction for now. Back into his notes and experiments, he gave some other task to Risa. He was glad she was around, she was quick and motivated, and that would allow him more time to work.
They kept at it until nightfall and called in the supper.
She was relieved he seemed willing to let it drop at that and let out a quick, sharp breath as she got back to work.
Though she was certainly willing to do her job with enthusiasm, Risa had to admit she was just about starving by the time they took a break to eat. Her stomach rumbled quietly and she flushed and cleared her throat, hoping to cover it.
As usual, the supper was composed of many things. Soup, bread, salad and the main dish, which this time was a good piece of meat with fried vegetables. Crow sat and began to eat in silence. He hadn't spoke much during the day except to ask her for things.
Risa was content to eat in quiet, picking at her food and trying not to make a nuisance of herself. She was still feeling a little worried about whatever Kenai might have said to her employer and was rather lost in her thoughts.
Crow put her plate away, half way done with it and got up.
-I'm sorry, I don't really feel hungry...once your done, can you lock up the lab...I'm off to bed...-
He said. He washed his mouth before leaving for his room, closing the door behind him.
"Oh. Yes, sir, of course." Risa nodded and finished her meal quickly, then set about cleaning up the lab.
That chore done, she retired to her room, yawning and blinking in a desperate attempt to stay awake.
It was already night time and the sun was already set. Crow was in his room, trying to figure certain things out. He sat on his bed, then eventually let himself fall on it and sighed.
He would barely sleep that night.
She tried to keep herself up to get through the last of the books Crow wanted her to read, but after a while Risa just couldn't keep her eyes open anymore.
She dropped off into a deep, heavy sleep. In fact, she was still asleep when five o'clock rolled around the next morning.
But nobody came to wake her up. In fact, Crow was also fast asleep and the sun was slowly rising in the sky. When he finally came to, he couldn't believe he had actually overslept and came rushing out of his room, his clothes all messed up and his hair in a worst state.
When he noticed Risa wasn't at the lab, he wondered if they were already at her day off, but he walked back and knocked at the door of her room.
Blearily coming into the waking world, Risa was at the door and swinging it open, hair a mess and nightgown falling haphazardly off her shoulder, before she realized she'd overslept.
"Oh!" Her eyes widened when she saw Crow and she immediately started apologizing. "I'm so sorry, I was up trying to finish those books and- just give me one minute, I'll get dressed, I'm sorry!"
Seemed like they both overslept. He cough a little as he looked away.
-Err...right...join me at the lab...-
He said, as he walked away, blushing a bit. He hadn't meant to see her like that. Perhaps he wasn't use to it because neither his sister or mother ever looked like this in the morning, or at the very least, he had never seen them in their nightgown. He walked back to the lab rather quickly.
Risa paused a moment, a curious frown stealing over her face. Had he been...blushing?
She shook her head and decided to put it from her mind. She changed quickly and tied her hair back, then hurried to the lab.
"Again, I'm really sorry about that, sir," she mumbled as she slipped into the room. "I promise, it won't happen again."
-Ah...don't worry about it...I overslept myself so...I guess we are even...-
He said with a sorry smile. He had already begin some preparation.
-I'm bringing you to a store today...Since your powers are related to earth, I want you to learn about stones proprieties, this might help you understanding your own power...-
He said.
"Oh. Alright." She nodded with a small smile and stepped up beside him to see what he was working on, and if she could help.
He was mixing up some ingredients together in a small cauldron which was currently been heat by some sort of magical circle. His hands were moving quickly, grabbing a bottle or another and adjusting the amount of ingredients of powder needed.
-I'm making a potion to cure various illness...see, you have to be careful to well caliber the ingredients or it might end up poisonous...-
He explained while putting in a small portion of a red liquid.
She nodded as she watched and leaned a little closer to better observe what he was doing with a murmured, "I see."
Risa had always liked cooking, and this particular method of potion making didn't seem all that different to her.
-Are you curious about potion making?-
He asked, as he put the finishing touch to the potion. He then let it boiled while stirring the liquid. Once done, he put it in a small vial then in a cupboard along with others vial of the same kind.
"A little," she said with a small smile. "Of course I'm enjoying learning more about my magic, but I wouldn't say no to learning something else at the same time."
-Is that so? Well...there are many things I can show you, so far, has anything picked your interest?-
He asked. This one was truly curious and he was ever more happy to have found her. Things were getting much more interesting since she had come around.
Risa chuckled. "Well, is there some sort of potion I could make to help speed a healing process? Kenai's always getting into trouble, it would probably be good to know."
-Well, there are many potions you can make, but a healing one must be done carefully, I can show you...in fact, I think I'll just tell you how to make it and you'll try on your own...-
He said, grinning.
-That's the best way to learn...how does that sound?-
"Alright!" She drew herself up straighter and looked at him with interest, clasping her hands behind her back. "What do I do first?"
-Right then, first, you need to gather whatever tools you'll need, this include, a small cauldron, a skewer, an empty vial, a spoon and a mortar...-
He said, as he watched her going around to find whatever she needed.
-Then, you'll need to get the needed ingredients...this include Violets petals, green king herbs, sunflower oil, Vulcain herbs, clamp nuts, water and red wine...-
He indicated.
Risa flitted about the room, doing as he said, and spread out the gathered supplies and ingredients on a table.
"Are there measuring cups or something I should be using?" she asked, tilting her head at him.
-you already have them, the spoon, this one is rather easy to make...-
He said, smiling.
-But first, you will need to get the water boiling, you can use the same circle I did, I'll show you later how to make one...-
He pointed the circle on the other table.
-Now then, you'll need to put the herbs and the nuts together in a fine powder...-
She nodded and followed his instructions carefully, brow furrowed in intense concentration. A few strands of hair fell loose around her face and she blew them away with a quick, irritated head shake.
"Okay, now what?"
-Now, you put 3 spoons of that powder into the cauldron and make sure the water is boiling, then you want to pour 5 spoon of wine into the water while stirring slowly...-
He continued to instruct, closely watching her every steps but not interfering with how she did it. He didn't wanted to break her concentration after all.
Risa moved with careful precision but also a certain amount of ease that didn't usually accompany her chores. This really was rather like cooking, and the more she thought about it that way the more comfortable she became with her task.
"Alright. Done."
-Now you wait for the liquid turn a soft golden...like honey...and make sure there are no residue, it must be liquid...-
He said. He was watching closely, nodding with a smile that she couldn't see since she was so concentrated on her task.
-Once it turn honey, you put the petals in and let them sink while stirring, lower the heat of the circle....-
He showed her how to do so by simply leveling her hand over the circle to adjust the temperature. He had taken her hand in his to do so, delicately. He was very close to her as he did so.
-You have to be careful with magical circle because they are very sensitive...
"O-oh..." Risa managed to keep her concentration, but just barely. She glanced at Crow out of the corner of her eye, very aware of how close to her he was.
The annoying thing was, he didn't seem affected by it at all. She wasn't quite sure if she should be offended by that or not- it could be that he was respecting her. Or that he just simply didn't find her worth his attention.
She cleared her throat and tried to put the thought from her mind. "Sensitive, right. Um...what now?"
Not that he wasn't aware of it, more like he was also concentrating on what to do. He didn't wanted to let the potion go to waste either. And as if that question had suddenly made him realize, he glance at Risa, who was really close and cough a bit before releasing her hand, looking away.
-You...you wait for 10 minutes until the liquid turn red...then you can bottle it up..-
He said.
"Y-yessir," Risa murmured. She looked at him for a moment as he moved away, then shook her head and set about finding a bottle to use for the potion.
She could find some in one of the cupboard Crow was using to put the potions in.
-And...don't forget to label it properly...-
He added. He was wondering what was going on with him. Well, this was a first, he frown a bit, pinching the edge of his nose and sighed. He would have time later to think about it. Waiting for Risa to finish the potion.
As she was bustling about, reaching up into the cupboard and brushing slightly against Crow in the process, Risa glanced at him and furrowed her brow.
"Are you alright, sir?" she asked quietly. Did he have a headache or something?
He shook his head slowly.
-No...nothing of the sort...I was trying to gather my thoughts is all..thank you for your concern...-
He said softly, trying to smile. Once the potion would finally be in it's bottle and labeled, the young man smiled.
-Good job...you can keep that one...-
"Oh- thank you!" Risa smiled at him. "I have a feeling this will definitely come in handy with Kenai," she chuckled quietly.
-Probably...-
He said. He didn't knew Kenai much, but that one seemed the type to easily get in trouble. He got lost in thoughts for a moment.
-Well, if you really like potion making, I can show you more and we can divide different session for you to learn about your own powers and about potions...or other things...-
He sat in one of the couch.
-Maybe, even make you a familiar...-
Risa perched on the edge of the coach and tilted her head at him. "You mean, like your bird?" she ventured. "Ah, would mine be...you know." She waved a hand airily. "Er- dead?"
-Hmm...oh no, that bird ain't my familiar....-
He said, chuckling a little. He made a gesture of his hand and from the air, a magnificent white and cream owl appeared. With large green and golden eyes as it perched on Crow's shoulder.
-This is Hwak, my familiar, unlike normal pet, they can be summon at any time and are link to you, so if you die, they will disapear with you.
He said. The owl looked at Risa for a moment, before snuggling it's head against Crow.
"Oh..." Her eyes widened slightly and she leaned forward curiously. Risa started to reach her hand out automatically, then paused and looked at Crow. "Can- can I...?"
The owl looked at Risa, almost frowning as she tried to reach him. Crow nodded slowly.
-Go on...but Hwak don't like to be pet on the head except by me, you can do it like this...-
He showed, scratching the owl under it's beak. It's started making soft sounds of happiness. It's spread his it's wings slightly as he was petted. Crow gave Risa some space for her to do the same.
Hesitantly, Risa gave the creature a few light scratches. She smiled and let the tip of her finger travel over the feathers of his breast, then drew her hand back.
"Thank you," she said with a respectful nod to the owl.
The owl nodded, as if he understood. These were very intelligent creatures, some could even speak human tongue. Crow let it loose and the owl took flight then disapeared into the air into a gust of wind.
-Each familiar is different and can take on various form, depending on your personality and soul, it will match it as closely as possible...-
He explained, looking back at Risa.
-But we should wait until you are a bit more familiar with magic.-
She nodded, mute, as she watched the owl fly away.
Then Risa gave a sharp shake of her head and looked back to Crow with a small smile. "Right. What's next for today then?"
He seemed to think.
-We are done for the potions...I'd like for you do some more training with your earth power...hmm let's see...-
He got up and went to one of the cupboard, taking out a small pot and brought it back over to the couch, it was filled with some strange substance that looked both liquid and rock like.
-Why don't you try shaping this to your will..make it take form, it's a rare form of soft rock, since it's related to earth, you should be able to do it...-
"Okay." She took the pot a little hesitantly and peered at the substance inside, then let out a long breath and tried to clear her mind, to focus.
Closing her eyes, Risa held her hand above the pot and furrowed her brow in concentration. The material slowly raised to her palm and started to twist and roll itself into...some sort of shape. It wasn't quite clear what it was, exactly.
Crow let her do, without saying a word so he wouldn't break her concentration and was simply observing, taking mental notes and wondering what kind of shape she was trying to form.
He eventually spoke, softly.
-Let it flow trough you, let your mind feel it, get a picture in your head, and shape it without thinking too much about it...instinct is the best way with these magics...-
He said.
Risa let out a long breath through her mouth and nodded, trying to do as he said.
The soft rock suddenly sprang into her hand and twisted around. She gasped quietly and blinked open her eyes to find herself holding the strange substance in the shape of a blooming rose.
Beaming, she looked to her teacher with shining eyes. "I actually did it!"
He nodded, giving her one of those genuine smile he rarely had.
-I had no doubt about it.-
He said. He gave her a soft pat on the shoulder, looking at the rose.
-Practicing will only make it perfect, now try to give it different shape and practice until you can freely transform it...That's gonna be your work for the remaining of the evening...I'll make call for the supper...-
He said. Time was passing fast as it was already late in the afternoon.
"Alright."
Risa nodded and took a seat, eagerly throwing herself into this new task. So was so lost in it, in fact, that she hardly even noticed the time passing.
Eventually, supper was brought to the room and Crow went to stop her in her practice, inviting her to sit at the table. Beef and vegetables, along with onion soup and cheese was serve to them. It smelled delicious.
And then came another strange question from him.
-Tell me Risa...do...you know how to dance?-
"Dance?" Risa looked up from her soup with raised eyebrows. "I mean...a little, I suppose. There's dancing at festivals, but it's not very...organized."
She tilted her head. "Is that what you mean?"
The young man shook his head.
-No...not exactly, more like, do you know how to valse...or slow?-
He said, putting away a thread of hair from in front of his eyes. Black and deep, locked on her. He looked somewhat serious.
-Because...you will probably need to do so at the bal...remember that you are invited...-
"O-oh." She bit her lip and flushed. "I, um...no, not really. I mean, I can waltz a little, but nothing complicated..."
-I see...-
He said, pondering for a moment.
-Perhaps it would be a good thing that you learn how to actually do it...-
He took a bite, lost in thoughts again. He knew how to dance, he had been taught at a very young age and even now and then, was remind to practice from time to time. He didn't want Risa to feel bad if she was to dance in front of so many people.
-Well...I can teach you...if you want...-
"Um..."
She bit her lip and tugged at a loose strand of hair. "If- if you don't mind, that would probably be helpful. Thank you."
He nodded.
-Right...then tomorrow we'll start with some quick lesson...-
He said. He finished his plate, it was late already so he called it off for the night. He wished her a good night then went back to his room. He never thought that the day where he would need to teach someone how to dance would come to be.
Risa nodded and stood, bidding him goodnight before she returned to her own room.
Well. Dancing lessons were certainly not what she'd been expecting when she took this job, but she was willing to adapt.
Night passed as usual, without much problem. Morning came the same way. Crow got up at his usual hour, yawning and stretching in his bed, fighting with the covers a bit. He could easily teach someone how to make a potion...but dancing. He couldn't just tell her how to...he would need to do it as well...He sighed, he couldn't believe he was doing all that for that bal he didn't even wanted to go to. But the choice wasn't his anyway.
So he got up and got ready.
Risa made sure she was up on time the next morning, even beating Crow to the lab so she had a few minutes to tidy things up and try to make herself look presentable and professional.
When Crow arrived, he was surprise to see her already there. She was early, perhaps those lessons were more interesting then he thought. For the lesson, Crow had chosen to put on some more regular clothes, as to not let them get in the way.
-Good morning Risa, did you sleep well?-
He asked. They wouldn't be practicing in the lab, there wasn't much place so they would be heading to the ballroom actually.
"Oh, yes, sir, thank you. And yourself?" She glanced up from cleaning a few of the pots they ha been using the previous day to give him a quick, bright smile.
-Uh, yes, thank you..-
He said.
-There isn't much space here so we will be going to the ballroom to practice...-
He said, tilting his head on the side, his hands on his hips. His slender figure even more charming in these strangely casual but right sized clothes.
"Right. Okay." Risa tried not to stare at Crow, but he really did look different out of his normal, oversized clothes. Good different. "Er, lead the way then?" She smiled sheepishly. "I still don't entirely know my way around."
-Right, come with me then..-
He motion for her to follow and they moved trough the corridors, meeting with some maids and servants going on they daily duties. They reached for the ballroom a few minutes later, this manor was really huge. When they entered, the place looked very luxurious with many candelabrum suspended from the ceiling, very large windows and curtains with balcony on each side. It could probably hold up to more then a hundred guest.
-Here we are...-
She trotted after him, glancing around in an effort to memorize the way.
"Okay then." Risa glanced around the ballroom, then planted her hands on her hips and looked at Crow questioningly. "What do I do first?"
He thought for a moment, how to teach that. He was trying to remember how he had been taught in the first place, and when it finally came back, he looked at her.
-First, you need to learn the tempo...1..2..3.....1..2..3....like this...-
He was making gesture with his hand while saying it.
-It's the basic and you move with that tempo in mind...-
He said. He then walked over to Risa.
-Then, you need to learn how to position your hands and feet...for now, follow my lead and keep the rythme in your head...-
He said, showing her what to do. He put one of her hand on his shoulder and the other in his hand, while he had one on her waist and the other holding her hand. Then he gently started to move, slowly at first for her to remember the steps, and slowly increasing the rythme to the normal one.
Risa swallowed nervously when he took her hand and they started to move. She was hesitant at first, and her nervous steps threw off her rhythm.
But as she grew more comfortable, the young woman actually proved to be a competent dancer. She kept good time, and her movements were soft and graceful. She glanced up at Crow with a shy little smile. "This isn't so bad..."
He wouldn't have put it as, ''it isn't so bad''. Dancing wasn't exactly his favorite activity, but he was willing to make an exception for her, which was already rare in itself. He simply smiled back as they were going at it.
-Right then..with this, you have the basics...now I'll show you some more steps to add..-
He said. From that, he show her how to do that small twirl where he was holding her hand and she would just turn on herself. And that other move where she was falling backward and he had to hold her up from her waist.
There was also a small jump that was barely visible but did change the rythme for when to step back into the beat.
She could tell her employer didn't exactly like this particular activity, but Risa actually found she was rather enjoying herself.
One particular spin had her suddenly feeling lightheaded and giddy and she giggled, twirling in to stand pressed flush against Crow's chest.
Finding himself stopping the girl's twirl, he blushed a bit as she was now pressed against him. Physical contact wasn't his forte either, he slowly pushed her back, holding her by the shoulders.
-Are you ok? Was that too fast?-
He asked. He hadn't noticed that they were currently been observed by Lenny and one of his brother.
Risa shook her head, still smiling happily. "No, no, that was fine. It was...kinda fun."
She cleared her throat and blushed, then shook her head. "Okay, sorry. I'm focused now."
-Alright then, let's keep at it...-
They continued practicing for a while, until he could hear a laugh from the door. It was slightly open. Crow stopped in his track as he glanced toward the door. He knew that laugh ohh too well.
-You can stop laughing now...Martin...you are annoying...-
His hands had left Risa's and were now planted on his hips as he tilted his head to the side, somehow lifting his chin a little in the air as he looked annoyed.
"O-oh!" Risa squeaked and ducked to hide behind Crow as she realized they were being watched.
-Well! I'd never would have imagine to see you dancing willingly! Ha ha ha! -
The tall man said as he got in, a huge mocking grin on his face. Lenny got in, giving a slap on Martin's arms, she couldn't quite reach his shoulder.
-Stop it! -
She turned toward them with a happy smile, even tough Risa was hiding behind Crow.
-I'm so proud of you brother! You'll be perfect for the bal! And you too little Risa!-
She said. She then took her other brother by the arm, taking him away.
-We'll leave you to it! Bye bye!-
They disapear behind the door. Crow sighed, annoyed.
There was a moment of silence. Then:
"She keeps calling me "little Risa"," the gel noted, brow furrowed. She glanced at Crow. "Am I really that small?"
Crow looked at her for a moment. There was a notable difference in size between them, but that was probably not the reason she was calling Risa ''little''.
-Don't mind it too much, she call everyone she like ''little'' particularly girls. She always wanted to have a little sister...-
He said slowly.
"Oh." She blinked and tilted her head at that, then said without thinking, "I suppose she'll get her wish soon enough, yes? If this ball is meant to find you a bride."
Crow mumbled under his breath for a moment. Indeed, but he wasn't the only one and the chance he'd find someone he like was near to zero. Also, having a wife meant that he would have a lot less time for himself and to conduct his experiments.
-I'm in no hurry...-
He said, grumbling. He then took Risa's hands again and put her back into the practice that was interrupted.
-Alright, focus now...1..2..3...-
He said, forcing her into the steps. Trying to avoid the subject.
Risa stumbled a bit as he suddenly swept her along again, then found her rhythm. She realized this was probably a subject he wanted to avoid and decided to drop it.
They practice until diner time, by then, he had showed her at least 3 type of dances that were usually been seen at bals. She could probably handle herself by then if she practice a little on her own and there was a chance that some would ask her for a dance.
-Alright, let's stop here for now...let us get some diner....-
He said. Dancing was a lot more demanding then making potions and reading. He called a servant and ask him to bring the food to the lab, as usual. They walked back there and Crow emptied a glass of water, sighing in relief.
Dinner sounded great. Risa nodded and followed him back to the lab, downing her own glass quickly an dabbing at her brow with the sleeve of her dress.
"Am I really going to have to dance much at this thing?" she asked a little nervously. "I sort of thought I'd just be...more of a wallflower, really."
-Well, it's not as if it would be an obligation, but you might be ask out to dance once or twice...and with your statue...refusing would be seen as an offense...-
He said, sitting finally. He lift his black eyes toward her.
-I'd rather you know how to dance then make a fool of yourself...-
"Yeah, me too," Risa said with a sigh. "I guess I just...didn't really expect anyone to ask me to dance at this thing."
He shrugged. Maybe nobody would, but he doubted it. Risa was cute and with her hair done and that dress Lenny had given her, he was sure she would get some attention.
-Don't worry, if you feel it's too much, you can always retire to the balcony...-
He said. The food arrived, it was a bit lighter since it was diner time. A chicken salad with a soup.
Risa nodded, though she was frowning a bit as she started to worry, and tucked into her food.
"I guess you're not allowed to just slip away from these sorts of things, huh?"
-Believe me, if I could, I would!-
He said, with a soft chuckle.
-But me and my brother will probably be the center of the attention at that point...-
He said.
-I don't think you'll have to worry too much.-
"Then no one will be courting your sister at this ball?" Risa pressed curiously
He tilted his head on the side.
-Probably some, but nothing official, there won't be alliance made out of it...-
He said, sighing a little. This would be a disaster, he had a feeling it would. But then again, he wasn't the kind to really know the meaning of love.
"Hmm..." Risa frowned as she picked at her food. "I guess you don't get the chance to really fall in love then, huh?" she murmured. That seemed sad to her.
-Yeah...you only fall in love in fairy tales anyway...-
He said. He ate his food quietly. The bal was the next saturday, he still had no idea on how many people would be there, probably a lot. He knew how his father liked to show off.
-You'll practice potion making for this afternoon...I'll give you a few recipes you can try...once your done with that, we'll go take care of the gardens...I think there is a rabbit in there eating my herbs...-
He said, frowning.
Risa frowned slightly and murmured, "I don't know about that." Her parents had always seemed pretty in love to her.
She glanced up at Crow's instructions and nodded easily. "Yes, sir."
Once he was done with his food, he put it aside then got up and walked to a shelf and took out a book from it, then took a parchment and wrote down 3 recipes on it. He then handed the sheet to Risa.
-Here, that should keep you occupied for a while...-
"Yes, sir." Risa got to her feet and set to work eagerly.
A days passed, the week quickly came to an end and it was saturday, already. The big night and already in the morning, everyone in the manor was getting ready for the bal. The maid and servants were putting on their best suit for the service, musicians had come to practice early, and the whole family was getting in clothes for the celebration, that included Risa, which was now stuck with Lenny in her room.
-ohh! This is gonna be wonderful! Don't you think!? Is this your first bal little Risa?
She asked, she was apparently very eager to start.
"Well, um, yes," Risa murmured, desperately trying to keep up with the cheerful whirl of energy that was Crow's sister. "I've been to village dances before, but never something like this."
Hesitantly, she glanced at Lenny and murmured, "I feel strange not having anything to do, milady. Is there some chore you need accomplished?"
-Village's dance! Oh my! This is much more!-
She said enthusiastically. And then, she looked at her with wide open eyes.
-A chore! My dear dear dear Risa! What you have to do today is very important you know! And your first work is to be ready! Meaning, your hair must be done, your makeup, your dress, everything must be sparkling clean and shining! -
She said with conviction. The girl knew Crow was in the same predicament, but with other maids and servants, under Lenny's orders, making sure the young man would be perfect for the night.
-And once you are ready, you can always help me chose which dress I'll wear! Oh oh!! This is so fun!-
Risa felt the blood drain from her face, but forced the brightest smile she could manage. "Y-yes, ma'am."
On that note, they were soon found by the designers, stylist and makeup artist. It was time to get dressed up. Risa could see just how much fun Lenny was having right now. It was true she probably considered the girl like a younger sister.
Risa was met with various choices over jewelry, dress color, hairstyling and makeup. In the end, she would probably not even recognize herself in the mirror, but the result was outstanding. Lenny had stars in her eyes, she herself now wearing her dress for the bal, all clad in red with pearls and ribbons.
-You are beautiful!!-
Risa was speechless for a few moments, staring at the looking glass. She'd been dressed in purples and reds to bring out the same colors in her almost opalescent hair, gold jewelry bringing that golden glint to her brown eyes.
"I, um...well, I guess all that work paid off," she murmured, shaking her head slightly.
-Of course it did!! Now, just wait until you see Crow!! I hope he did chose the blue one!-
She said with a huge grin. The servants were all nodding as they approved of their own work, smiling. Lenny eventually chase them away, thanking them for their hard work. She took Risa's hand.
-alright, let's go how the boys fair now!-
She was beaming. So they left the room and went on their way to see Crow and his brothers, they were all getting ready in the same room. They were met by Lenny's mother. She herself, had been getting ready and was wearing a beautiful cream dress with pearls and diamonds, her hair were less fancy then the two girl as it fit her age, but it only made the black of her eyes stand out even more.
-Oh my, you two are so beautiful! Look at yourselves!-
She said, impressed.
Risa blushed and ducked her head as she dropped into a polite curtsy with a murmured, "Thank you, madam."
Goddess, she was so uncomfortable, was that how the whole evening was going to be?
She smiled and went on her way. Lenny took Risa's hand and led her to the boy's room, where they were getting ready. The final preparation had just been made and the two young man were standing in front of the mirror, looking quite handsome. Crow's brother was clad in white and looked like some prince from a fairy tale, tough his crook smile was a bit too much.
As for Crow, he didn't took the blue one, but the black one. He was wearing tight leather pants with knee high long boots, strapped with red laces. A adjusted black tunic with golden buttons on the front, lines in two row, with long sleeves, also laced in red and a tailcoat. A white ribbon surrounded his neck. His hair had miraculously been slick backward, leaving his face open with only a few thread of hair to fall off in front of his black eyes, giving him a dignified yet mysterious air. He was also wearing gold earings to his right ear and a few rings upon his fingers.
He looked quite dashing.
-Oh...Risa...Lenny...-
He said, as he noticed their presence in the mirror. He turned around. He slender figure showing nicely in these clothes. Lenny was beaming.
-Woaaahhh!! You two are just so handsome!!-
She let out.
Risa felt her face flush as she saw her employer. "Wow."
Her blush deepened when she realized she'd said that out loud and she ducked her head. "You, um, you both look very fine, milords."
Crow blushed a bit, and cough.
-Well...you look pretty nice too, Risa...-
He said. the older brother grinned.
-My, you went out of your way for an assistant! Oh well, she is rather cute...too bad she's not noble...Maybe i could have taken her as my bride! gah ha ha!-
The older brother said. Crow gave him a darting glare, clearly asking him to shut up.
-Anyway...we still have an hour left before the guest are gonna start arriving...-
-Yeah, i'll leave you two alone, I need to get some things ready.-
-Me too, see you later Risa and Crow!-
The two siblings left, leaving Crow and Risa alone for now.
If Risa hadn't been blushing before, she certainly was now.
As his siblings left, she glanced at Crow with wide eyes and squeaked, "He's joking right? Wearing a nice dress doesn't suddenly make me...eligible."
Crow laughed a little. It wasn't a mocking one, but still.
-Well, it's pretty rare for noble to marry with the more common folk...if it only took a nice dress, a lot of people would get married off of that!-
He said. He looked her over, from head to toes, she was really ravishing. He found himself blushing a little, he had to admit, Lenny and her servants had done quite a good job.
-Don't worry, I won't let my brother snatch you away from me! ha ha!-
He said. They would need to get moving.
-Alright, we should get moving, once in the ballroom, you'll stay with Lenny, me and my brother have to enter at the end so every guest can see us...-
He said, as he started moving.
"O-oh..." Risa's blush only worsened and she ducked her head. "Well, um. Alright then. Lead the way, sir."
They reached for the ballroom. Everything was in place, the banquet was served on one gigantic table, in the far corner, the small orchestra was waiting for the guest to arrive. The candles were all lit, the curtain were open and a small estrade had been rise up for the host to sit. There were a few tables with white tablecloth over them. Chairs for people to sit down and a lot of space for dancing or talking.
Crow's parents were already there, his two brothers and his sister as well. All together like this, felt pretty romantic as they had put on their best clothes, like some kind of fairy tale family. That noble air was all around.
-The guest will be getting here soon, Crow and Martin, you wait in the chamber until you are called...Lenny, take care of the assistant...Edward, you'll stay with your mother in the ballroom...-
The master of the house ordered. They all nodded and went to their spot.
Not knowing what else to do, Risa stuck close to Lenny's side as people dispersed. "What am I supposed to do?" she asked quietly. Se felt quite out of her depth.
Lenny gave her a reassuring smile.
-For now, smile and be pretty, the guest will come in soon so we have to be ready to welcome them.-
She said. And it wasn't long before people started coming in, all from the high class of society, gown and dress of all color, red, blue, violet, white, pink, yellow, with their partner in more modest color, like blue, black, green and brown. Wearing jewelry of gold and silver, diamond, pearl, saphire and emerald, some ruby here and there. It was an extraordinary show of nobility. Couple coming in with their daughters, as if an offering to the Godwing family. They were introduced one by one, at least, most of them.
Until all the guest had arrived. Lenny was charmingly welcoming them, inviting them to take a drink, or a seat. Showing them the way to the banquet. Risa had been given the task to do the same. Until finally, silence was called as the host of the night was called in.
-Please welcome you host, sir Levyssen Godwing and his sons...Martin Godwing and Crow Godwing!-
The small crowd that had gathered, over a hundred people, started to applause fancily as the trio made their apparition. Two tall and impressive figures with a smaller one appeared at the top of the stairs. Everyone had their eyes on them, mostly on the two young man, as if they were prey.
They descended the stairs and then entered the crowd.
Risa was completely at sea, but she did as she was told. For the most part, she tried to keep herself inconspicuous, out of sight from most of the ballroom.
It wasn't long before Crow found her, looking a bit annoyed.
-Ah Risa, there you are!-
He said, apparently happy to have find her. The musicians had started to play after his father had given a welcoming speech. People were looking their way, but thankfully, Martin was trying to get all the attention, with his white clothes.
-How are you doing...not too overwhelm? -
He asked.
Risa forced a smile and nodded, trying to keep a bright expression up for him. "Oh, yes, I'm fine!" she chirped. "You...doing okay?"
He nodded slowly.
-Well...my brother is getting all the attention so that's all fine by me...-
He said. He had a glass of wine in one hand.
-Do you want to sit or have some food? The banquet looks quite delicious!-
He said, offering his arm to her in order to move trough the crowd without getting separated.
"Oh. Yes, thank you, sir." Risa took his arm and allowed him to lead her through the crowd to the banquet.
Once at the banquet, she could see a lot of variety in the food. Chicken, pork, beef, in great variety of meal, fruits of all kind, nicely cut and presented along with cheese and vegetables. Cookies, snack and breads, with pâtés and other delicacies. Dessert of all sorts and a lot of wine bottle. Servants were making sure to serve the guest with the utmost courtesy.
-Feel free to eat as you like...-
Crow was soon approach by a young woman, Risa's age or so. She was very beautiful, her long blond hair were falling over her delicate shoulders and she had emerald like eyes.
-Oh, good afternoon sir Crow, I am Esmeralda, daughter of the Blanco family, it is an honor to meet you!-
She said bowing in a graceful curtsy to the young man.
-Nice to meet you too Miss Blanco...-
When the woman approached, Risa attempted to make herself scarce. She felt awkward and out of place, and she tried to pick at the food to distract herself, but found that she suddenly wasn't very hungry.
She was looking at Crow with sheep eyes, but what was hidden behind those might be scary. She then took notice of Risa.
-Hmm...and who might you be? I'm effraid I haven't seen you before...-
She asked the girl. Crow answered for her. He just knew how Risa wasn't liking this as much as he did.
-She is...my assistant, Risa...-
He said.
-She help me with my research and works...-
-I see...-
She said with a quick smirk.
Risa nodded quietly, keeping herself a bit behind Crow as he talked to the woman. "Um...pleased to meet you," she offered quietly with a nod.
Crow talked with the woman for a moment, before she finally went away. Giving a look over to where his brother was, he could see he had a lot of girls around him, showing off. It was probably better this way and he knew more would probably come after him once his brother would have set his eyes on some. closing hope for those he liked less.
The music started and people were gathering toward the center for some dancing. He turned toward Risa.
-Would you give me the first dance?-
He asked her, extending his hand to her.
She blinked at him and slowly took his hand. "Is this, um...proper?" Risa asked quietly, glancing from side to side. "I mean- plenty of the girls here would kill for this dance. I'm just your assistant..."
-That is exactly why I'm asking you...The less interest I show them, the better it will be...-
He said as he went on with her toward the dancing floor. His brother was accompanied by one beautiful young lady with long brown hair and a yellow dress. As the main event, is it was to say, they had to open the dance and would go solo for the first valse while others were watching.
-It'll be fine...we practice...-
He whispered to her as he took her hand on one, placing the other on her waist. The music started and they went on.
Risa swallowed nervously as she allowed him to lead her out onto the floor. "I don't think I've ever been this nervous in my life," she muttered, laying her hand on his shoulder.
He smiled at her.
-Don't worry...I'm with you...-
They started dancing, opening the bal. They went around the place, swirling, turning, and dancing into a soft waltz. The girls were glaring while trying to hide their Jealousy as they watched.
Once she let herself relax and actually enjoy the dance, Risa realized she was actually having fun. She smiled at Crow a little hesitantly as they whirled along, growing a bit more comfortable with the situation.
As it went on, they were soon join by other dancers, getting into the waltz with their partners, it became a bit more cramped as the number of people rose on the dance floor.
-Your doing just great...-
He told her.
Risa swallowed a little nervously and nodded once. "Well, I had a good teacher," she said softly.
As the dance went on, they stayed on the dancing floor for a good ten minutes before they could catch a break. The spectators applauded and new dancers came to dance. Crow left with Risa and manage to get away a little further into the room.
-Well, it wasn't so bad was it?-
He asked, with a smile.
"Actually..." Risa smiled at him, eyes glinting gold. "I had fun. Thank you."
-Glad to hear that.-
He said, with a nod. But they had to cut short to that conversation as someone came to interrupt them.
-My my...to think you would still the first dance from me!-
She was adressing Risa. It was the blond woman from before. She looked both a bit annoyed and trying to keep up her pretty face at the same time.
-Miss Blanco...-
Crow said softly as he turned around.
Risa started a bit, then turned to face the woman. "Oh, um- Master Crow was just being polite." She tried for a soothing smile. "He knows I get uncomfortable in crowds, he was just trying to make me feel better..."
-I see...how sweet of him, but children should stay in their room...now if you'll excuse me...-
She grabbed Crow by the arm, forcefully bringing him with her.
-Me and Crow have some adult things to talk about...-
On that, she turned away with Crow, taking him toward the more crowded place, where he had no chance of escape anymore, and despite to try not to look too annoyed, it somehow showed in his face.
In a split second, Lenny was next to Risa.
-Hmm...I don't like that one...-
She said.
Risa bit her lip and kept silent, fixing her eyes on her feet. She shrugged when Lenny appeared. "I knew I shouldn't have come."
She lifted her head a bit and smiled slightly, forced. "I think I'll- just go back to my room. Get some reading done. Excuse me, milady."
Lenny looked at her surprised, taking her hands.
-Why!? Are you not having fun?-
She asked worriedly. It seemed she had difficulties believing someone would rather read then be at a bal.
"Oh, no! Um, it's just..." Risa shrugged with a sheepish smile, trying not to hurt her feelings. "I- I think I'd be more comfortable in my room."
-Oh...hmm...I see...maybe...maybe I did put too much pressure on you....hmm...sorry about that, I didn't consider your feelings...here, let me accompany you back to your room then...would you like to be brought supper?-
She asked, smiling to her.
"Oh, no, no, that's alright." Risa waved her off with a smile. "I just...I'm a little tired, that's all. And I got to eat a bit of the banquet, so I'm not all that hungry."
She curtsied and tried to scurry out of the room.
-I...I see...have a good rest then, don't hesitate if you need anything...-
She said, watching her off. Risa manage to escape.
"Yes, ma'am, thank you, ma'am." Risa hurried off to her room, slipping inside and shutting the door behind her with a soft sigh.
She should have known better. She just didn't fit in with these people.
Now alone in her room, Risa had all the time she wanted to read or do whatever she wanted to. She wouldn't get any news from Crow until the day after.
During that time, the young man was surrounded by people, force to talk to them as his father was pressuring him to choose a bride, trying to advice him in his choice, but all of them looked blank, boring and annoying. All little fancy girls, without much attitude, if to be pretty and that's all.
They didn't care about him, nor did they cared about who he was...all that mattered, was that he was part of the Godwing family and that the Godwing family was rich and influencial. He wished he could just disapear at that time.
Risa tried to get some studying done, but she just couldn't focus. After an hour or so, she gave in with a sigh and changed into her nightgown, crawling into bed and dousing the light.
And night went on, until morning came, unlike yesterday, there was no more sounds coming from the hallway, nor the corridors, it was calm, like before a storm, something was probably going to happen....but what?
Risa woke still feeling rather listless, and she dressed and made her way to the lab in a tired daze, yawning and hardly paying any attention to her surroundings.
Making her way to the lab, Risa found herself alone in the lab. No trace of Crow...well, until she went a bit further, where she found him lying, still in his clothes from yesterday, a bottle of wine on the side. It looked like he had a rough night.
"Oh dear..." Risa covered her mouth with one hand and carefully approached Crow. "Um, excuse me? Sir?" She knelt and shook his shoulder lightly.
-Hmm...I'm...not....*Not understandble ghiberish* ...marry...-
He mumble as he turned on the side, while frowning. He let out a sigh and tossed again before waving his hand in front of him, eyes close, he was still sleeping but apparently having a dream.
Risa sighed. "Sir? Crow. Come on, you have to get up." She shook
His shoulder a little more firmly, leaning over him.
Eventually opening his eyes, slowly, his black eyes fell upon's Risa and he jumped out of surprise to see her so close.
-Waahh!!-
He exclaimed, a hand on his heart as he tried to understand what was going on. And also, why he was on the ground like this.
-Wha....what happened?-
Risa squeaked in surprise and reeled back, staring at him with wide eyes. "You, um...I found you here." She cleared her throat. "I think you might have drunk a bit too much last night. Are you alright?"
Looking around him, he noticed the bottle, emptied, and his clothes. He barely remembered what happened last night, but he knew one thing, he would probably hear about it soon. He pressed his palm against his forehead, trying to remember, but nothing...nothing at all.
He sighed.
-I'm sorry...I suppose I did drink too much...I can't even remember last night...-
He said slowly. He was tired and dizzy, so he didn't got up just yet.
"Oh- wait, don't move."
Risa scampered away, then returned a few minutes later with a pitcher of water and a cup. "Here." She knelt and hesitantly helped him sit up, then offered the water. One hand moved to the nape of his neck and she let the other hover at him temple, rubbing in soothing little circles.
It usually helped her father with hangovers, so it couldn't hurt, right?
-Thanks...-
He said, gulping down the cup of water. It did help.
-I don't know what I'd do without you...-
He said softly, looking back up at her. He gave a small smile, trying to get back into his usual mind set, but the drunken state was pretty rough this morning.
-I think...I'll rest a little for today...-
He said, trying to get up and head to the nearest couch.
Risa flushed a little at that and offered a small smile of her own. "You'd manage," she murmured as she helped him onto the couch.
Not quite sure what else to do, she perched on the arm of the piece of furniture and continued rubbing at his neck and temples, trying to find pressure points that would relieve a headache.
It took a while before he would finally feel the pain go away, thanks to Risa's help. He started to feel better. He eventually just left his head rest on the top of the couch, eyes close, his hair falling over his face. His pale complexion hit with a soft pinky hint on the cheeks as he looked like he was almost asleep.
-Thank you...Risa...-
He said softly. they could hear the birds chirps outside. It was sunday, Risa's usual day off, but that had slip Crow's mind.
"You're welcome." Her voice was soft and she slowly drew her hands back as he seemed to be drifting off.
She glanced out the window. She thought about going home, but she didn't entirely want to leave Crow alone just then.
It was truly a beautiful day, the sun was shining outside and the sky was clear blue. A fresh breeze of wind entered the room from the open windows of the balcony. The servants had started around their duties and they could be heard walking in the corridors.
Crow eventually opened his eyes again, tough sleepily as he looked at Risa.
-....We are..sunday...it's your day off right?...-
He asked, eventually tilting his head toward her.
She flushed a bit and nodded. "Well, yes, but...I'm not sure you should be alone right now. What if you pass out again or something?"
-Don't worry about me...tough, it makes me happy somehow...-
He said softly.
-That you would worry about me...-
He smiled a little, looking away, somewhat blushing, or it could still be just the alcohol, just maybe. He chuckle a little, then sat up and pointed a bottle in the glass closet next to them.
-Fetch me that would you...please...-
He asked.
"Oh. Sure." She was blushing a bit, but she wasn't quite sure why. She fetched the bottle out of the cabinet and moved forward to offer it to him.
"This one, right?"
-Yes...thank you.-
He said, he opened the bottle, a soft aroma came out and he gulp it down in one go. The bottle was rather small, but what was inside was quite strong. Crow let out a few cough before shaking his head lightly.
-I didn't remember it was this strong...-
He said, coughing a little more, but his eyes seemed clearer and he looked more awake.
-Next time...I'll take it with water...-
He added with somewhat of a sheepish smile.
Risa smiled back and perched on the arm of the couch again. "Feeling any better then?"
-Yes, I do...thanks to you.-
He said, nodding slowly.
-I don't want to hold you back...but well...if you don't mind, I wanted to go to town...perhaps, you would accompany me? Tough, it's your day off, so pay no mind to my request if you don't wish to.-
He said.
"No, no, I don't mind." She smiled and got to her feet. "What are you going into town for?"
-A change of pace...nothing precise really...-
He said as he got up, then moving in front of a mirror, he saw himself, still in his bal clothes.
-Perhaps I should change first huh...-
Risa giggled and raised a hand to cover her mouth. "Yeah. Maybe," she agreed.
-Give me a moment...shouldn't be long...-
He then exited the room and returned to his own in order to do just that. Putting on some more casual clothes that were actually his size, the other ones had mysteriously disapeared, he would most likely need to either find out where they went or buy new ones...A white long sleeved shirt with a pair of black pants and a red bow around his neck with a black short sleeveless tail coat over his shirt.
He returned to the lab, then looked at Risa.
-Better?
She gave him a lopsided smile. "Much."
Risa got to her feet and moved toward the door. "I suppose we should get moving then."
-Yes...the sooner we are out, the better I will feel...-
He said. They walked out of the room and made their way to the front door, moved trough the gardens then finally reached the front gate and went out. He didn't took one of the family carriage, there was no need, he'd rather walk to sort things out in his mind.
-Tell me...where would you go if you wanted to clear your head?
He asked Risa.
She blinked at him. "Well...I usually go to the city gardens," she murmured after a moment.
-Sounds like a good idea...I never went there myself tough...care to show me the way?-
He asked, looking at her with a smile.
"Oh. Well, sure. Of course." She smiled and slipped down the familiar path through the city streets to a neatly kept park. In the center were the gardens, a rather colorful and trimmed affair with several winding paths twisting through the beds of flowers and around the trees, occasionally dotted with stone benches or small chairs.
It was a quiet place, no one was really around.
Crow followed Risa, as they walked trough town and eventually reach the gardens in the park, he looked around. It did lack the variety of his own gardens, but it sure felt different, he went and sat on one of the stone bench and took a deep breath, sighing slightly.
-I didn't knew there were place like this here...-
He said softly, looking around, at their peaceful surroundings.
Risa smiled and took a seat on the bench. "A lot of people don't really know this place is here. That's why I like it- it's quiet."
-Yeah...very quiet...-
He said, listening to the silence. It was calm and it was relaxing, something he rarely enjoyed, but right now, he couldn't think about his research at all, he couldn't think about his garden, his summoning circle or his incantations, his mind was wrapped around another problem.
-...You know...I might not be around for long...-
He said softly, his gaze still fixed into the distance.
She glanced at him sidelong. "Because...one of those girls, last night... You're getting married?" Risa guessed slowly.
-Yeah...-
He said, his eyes still fixed upon the blue sky as the wind was softly flowing trough his black hair. He looked as if the world had swallowed him and his very soul, somewhat empty and sad.
"You don't seem happy about it," Risa murmured. "Aren't weddings usually...something to celebrate?"
His head drop as his eyes looked at the ground.
-I suppose they are...-
He said.
-But I don't want to get married...not wit her...-
He added, shaking his head slowly.
Risa drew her knees up to her chest and rested her chin on them, rather childlike. "Which one?" she asked softly.
He paused for a moment, thinking.
-I don't know...I suppose...I'm looking for someone who can understand me...someone that won't stop me from doing what I like...-
He said slowly. It seemed like he didn't had anyone he really liked at the bal.
-They were all so pretentious...boasting about their fine lineage and riches...how they were so well educated and fine women...-
He frowned, as if the memory was leaving a bad aftertaste in his mouth.
"Then...did your parents picks someone?" Risa tilted her head. "Can't you just- tell them no?"
-If I could, I would already have...believe me..-
He said slowly. He then seemed lost in thoughts for a long while. It was a good thing nobody was around to disturb them. Only the wind was brushing against their skin.
-I think...I'll just leave the city...-
Her eyes widened. "Can you...do that? Just go?"
He laughed a little.
-Probably not...but I'll still do it...-
He said. He sounded a little more confident about it.
-I'm sorry Risa...I suppose, there will be no more work for you...I doubt you'd want to follow me...-
"Wait, I-"
Risa started to speak, then bit her lip. "I...I don't know," she mumbled after a moment. "I was learning so much with you. I can't..."
She looked up at him, sighed, and dropped her eyes. "I can't ask you to stay. Not if it would make you unhappy."
-I'm sorry about that...-
He said, a bit sadly.
-Tough...if you do wish to come, you are welcome to do so...I'll probably be leaving in a week or so...that'll give you time to think about it...-
He said softly.
"A week..." Risa bit her lip. "Would- would we ever come back? If I left with you?" Could she just leave her family?
-I can promise we'd come back every month...but, yes, I'd probably have to come back around from time to time...-
He said, looking at her.
"When...when would you leave?" she asked quietly. Did she have time to think it over?
-As I said...probably a week or so...you have the time to think about it...-
He said softly.
-Think it over...but I'll be making my preparations at the manor so...you don't need to come...-
He added, looking at her.
"Alright..." Risa nodded slowly and stood. "I think, um- I'm going to go home for today. I think I should talk to my family."
She reached out to touch his shoulder, then hesitated and drew her hand back. "If- if you need anything, you know where to find me."
Crow lift his head toward her, then nodded.
-Right...I suppose you should...thanks again...be careful on your way home...-
He said. He would probably need to get back to the manor as well, he got up.
-Well...see you later...-
He then started to walk away as well, his head fill with things he needed to be done.
"Um, good-bye then." She hesitated a moment, then added, "I'll see you tomorrow, Master Crow."
He turned his gaze upon her for a moment, a slight smile appearing on his face as he waved back at her and left the garden, his head fill with thoughts as he went back toward the manor.
Risa waved goodbye, then hesitated a few moments before turning and making her way home. She was rather quiet for the remainder of the evening, helping out around the house and shop, but it was clear her mind was elsewhere.
Crow went back home, locking himself up in his room and not letting anyone enter, even refusing to speak with his sister which came to see if he was alright. None of them could get a word with him and he even refused to eat diner.
Lost in his thoughts and what he would be doing from now on.
Risa woke early and made her way back to the manor in the same sort of daze that seemed to have overcome her the day before, nodding to the guards before she slipped inside and worked her way through the halls to the lab almost on muscle memories.
When Risa arrived at the lab, she would find Crow putting things away in boxes, and small bags, a large magical circle was set in the middle of the room and the young man was putting things in it, as soon as they touched it, they disapeared, as if they were transported somewhere else.
-Oh...good morning Risa...-
He said, putting another pile of books into the circle, and like the others, disapeared.
She opened her mouth to ask a question, eyes rather wide, then decided against it.
Instead, she simply nodded and moved up beside him with a quiet, "Good morning, milord." She glanced around. "What can I do?"
-Oh..hmm, well, as you can see...I'm packing...but if you want to help, those bottles over there need to be put in boxes...then you can send it into the circle...-
He said, while walking back to the shelves he was emptying.
-Did...you sleep well?
Risa started helping him pack quickly. "I, ah- yeah. Ahem, yes, I did." She glanced over at him. "You?"
-Ah...uh well, more or less...I have to admit...this is a bit, extreme on my part...I'll probably hear about it soon too...-
He said, shaking his head slowly as he packed some others items, throwing them into a bag and then throwing the bag into the circle, it passed right trough, like all the rest of his belongings before.
-I...hmm...I doubt you had any time to...think about it huh...?-
He asked, slowly, as if scared of stepping on a land mine.
Risa kept her eyes down as she worked. "I did, actually," she murmured after a few moments. "I-" She cut off and bit her lip, brow furrowing.
Crow turned his head toward her, stopping whatever he was doing at the moment and waited.
-You know...I'm not leaving before the end of the week, if youre still uncertain, there is no rush...-
He said softly and smiling at her.
She let out a quiet breath. "Yessir," she murmured. "I'm sorry, I just- I really do need to think about this."
-Of course and I understand, that this is not an easy request I am making of you...also, if you would not talk of it to other members of my family...they believe I'm getting rid of stuff and finally start living a ''normal'' life...-
He said to her, winking.
She smiled at him, that little golden glint coming in to her eyes. "Yessir." Her expression softened and she added, "I know it's not an easy request, but I'm- I'm sort of glad you made it. I'm...grateful for the opportunity to keep learning."
-And I'd be more then happy to keep teaching you...as I said, I hate to see great potential go to waste!-
He smiled softly. He kept packing for a moment and eventually went and sat down, pouring himself a cup of tea he heated with a magical circle.
-Do you want some?-
He asked her, holding a cup up toward her.
"Oh, sure." She moved forward to take the cup and sipped at it. "Thanks." Her eyes were sort of far away, as though she wasn't altogether focused.
Crow sipped at his tea, then looked outside, it was sunny and the birds could be heard chirping. Now that the room was almost empty, it felt a lot wider then before...and somewhat, it felt sad. He didn't say a word, silence was apparently needed right now as they both seemed to be lost in thoughts.
Risa was content so sit there and nurse her tea, attention apparently fixed in the pattern of the carpet below her feet. She started absently tracing her toe over a series of swirling lines, sort of humming to herself.
It was a moment of silence, of deep thoughts, both were calm and their mind set on different things, but it was nontheless, a relaxing time. After all the turmoil, it seemed like it was well deserved.
Crow took another sip and sighed softly, he would miss his lab, that was for sure, but he certainly could get one somewhere else, perhaps not as cosy as this one...and he'll probably need to cook for himself, which was in itself pretty scary.
He frowned at the thought.
Risa glanced up and saw his expression. "Is something the matter, milord?"
He looked at her.
-Oh..well...-
He blushed a little.
-I was just thinking...I'll have to cook...and I'm hopeless at it ha ha...-
He said, scratching the back of his head. It was still a miracle he manage to do some tea, well, it was the only thing he could make well.
Risa smiled. "That's alright." She took a breath, then continued firmly, "I'm a good cook, I can take care of the food."
He looked at her, opening wide eyes.
-Then...does this mean...you accept to come with me?-
If it was it, it made him feel happy, somehow, he wasn't sure where that feeling came from, but he was glad all the same.
-Thank you Risa!-
He said, with a soft yet brighter smile then usual.
She nodded once, determined. "Yes. I'll come." She wasn't ready to give up the chance to learn more about her magic.
Her expression softened into a smile and she nodded at him again. "You don't have to thank me, milord."
He laughed a little, then nodded as well. He then put down his cup of tea, which was now empty.
-I still have a lot to pack, perhaps you should think about what you will bring with you as well.-
He said, tilting his head slightly.
"Yes." She stood and gave a polite nod. "If I have your leave, I'll return home and pack a bit."
He nodded to her.
-Sure, please do...When I'm ready to leave, I'll come and fetch you...so to not raise too much suspicion from my family ok...-
He said with a kind smile.
She nodded again. "Yessir."
Risa hesitated a moment, then darted forward and gave him a quick, spontaneous hug around the neck, mumbling, "Thanks," before she scurried to the door and slipped out of the room.
Crow was a bit surprised by the hug but didn't really mind it as he watch her leave the room. He then looked at his lab then sighed a little. He would miss this place, and kept working on his stuff. He would have to take all the plants from the garden and mash them into powder, that promised to be long, he had better start soon.
Risa was quiet again as she made her way home, making up some excuse about an extra day off for her family before scurrying I her room to being packing.
It took him the whole week to finally be done with the packing, not even once had he seen his fiancee coming to the household. Not that it bothered him much. But in the end, he had finally manage to finish everything up and all was packed and ready to leave, in that magical circle he could simply cast to have access to all his stuff.
As he looked back at the now empty room, he sighed slightly, he would miss the view on the gardens, the breeze at night and all those times working here, from dusk to dawn...
There was no need to alert his family, he put on his usual clothes, then headed out, with a backpack on his shoulder and made his way trough the city, remembering where Risa was leaving and reaching the small store once more, he entered the shop.
Risa was working the shop with Kenai when Crow entered. "Oh."
It must be time to leave.
She glanced at her brother and bit her lip. She hadn't told her parents of her plans to leave, but she had told Kenai. His eyes flicked to Crow, then to his sister.
He smiled and wrapped an arm around her, leaning in to kiss her cheek. "Go on, hurry. I can cover for a few hours. Just- come back and visit, alright?"
She nodded and pecked his cheek in return. "I will, promise. Love you." She bent and retrieved a traveling pack from under the counter- stashed for just this reason- then slipped around and moved to meet Crow.
Entering the shop, he saw Risa and her brother, he waved at them, he wondered where her parents were, he would have want to have a word with them, making sure they wouldn't worry too much.
-Ah, I see you are already ready...we will be taking a ship later today so, if you want to say your good byes, you have the time...-
He said, smiling at her.
Risa swallowed rather heavily. "Um, no, that's alright. I've already...said goodbye."
She knew if she told her parents, they wouldn't let her go.
Crow could notice the nervousness in her words, and her attitude, he understood that she was in the same situation as he was.
-I...see...-
He said. He looked around.
-Well, in that case, I suppose we should be on our way then...-
He said, giving a soft smile, then nodding his head toward her brother.
Kenai gave him a hard look, then said after a moment, "You look out for her, or you'll answer to me."
"Kenai!" Risa frowned at him. "Hush, we'll be fine." She gave him another quick kiss on the cheek, then moved toward Crow.
Crow cough a little as he was told off by Kenai again.
-I'll let nothing bad happen to her...promise...-
He said as they finally made their way out of the shop.
-I think your brother got something against me...-
He said, sighing a little.
Risa flushed. "No, he's just- protective. It's not you, really."
-I suppose so...-
He said, but he wasn't so sure about that. In any case, they were on their way now.
-Alright, we only need to head to the port and take the ship from there.-
He said, smiling. The young man didn't look like he had much traveling luggages, but no doubt he still had a lot of stuff hidden here and there.
"Right." She nodded and hefted her pack up onto her shoulder, shooting him a quick, only slightly forced grin. "Lead the way, milord."
They made there way to the port, it took them a good hour on foot to get there, but they made it. Their ship departure wasn't until the night, so they had time to spend in the mean while.
-Hmm...why don't we get into one of the inn to get some food...we can always explore the port after until we can get on the ship..-
He suggested.
Risa shrugged. "Fine by me, sir." She was rather interested to see how the little lordling would react to one of the rather rough inns scattered along the docks.
As they walked along the port, there was many kind of people around, mostly sailors and merchants, ready to make their trades. The name of their ship was ''The Wonder''. Crow looked around for a while and searched for a inn, eventually finding one out of the many there was.
He went in, it was bustling with people, and not the kindest sort. Crow tried to make his way toward a table that was free and eventually manage to get there, tough he was quickly rough up and push by some taller man.
-Oye...kids should stay home...-
He told the young lord with a grin. The man wasn't alone as a small gang of men was ganging up around.
-Pardon me sir...but I was here first...-
Crow said, looking at the man with his pitch black eyes.
Oh dear. Risa cowered against her companion's side, eyes flicking around warily. "Maybe we should just wait at the docks," she murmured, tugging on Crow's sleeve.
-Why...I can stay here if I want to...-
He said, looking at her. His hands on his hips.
-Oh...perhaps I wasn't clear enough...we are taking this table..so move your ass somewhere else!-
The man gave another push to Crow, which sent him backing up against another of the man, that caught him and pushed him back forward, the young man ended falling over the table with a ''ouf'' and slowly rise up, coughing a little.
-And I don't think you've heard me...-
He said, frowning but a painful expression on his face.
-We were here first...-
He said, standing back up. The man looked at themselves, then started laughing.
-I think he needs a lesson!-
The..''leader'' of the pack said, standing up from a good 6 feet tall.
Risa squeaked and clutched at Crow's arm, trying to tug him toward the door. "It isn't worth it," she whispered. "C'mon, let's just go."
Crow could feel Risa tugging against his clothes, but it was already too late, she was taken away from him as they surrounded him and started hitting him, he answer to them nicely, but their sheer number was too much, in the end, he got dragged out and thrown out of the inn like some rag doll as he hit the floor.
He cough off some blood before lifting his head slowly, one of his eye going black.
-Damn it...*cough*...those...bastards..-
The men seemed to have no care for Risa and she managed to slip out of the inn, quickly hurrying to Crow's side.
"I told you we should have hair left," she murmured, wincing as she laid a hand on his shoulder. "Here, let me take a look at you."