A Hidden Past
by Hway-Ling (© Hway-Ling, 2002)

Chapter Six :: Lady

“Uhhh…..” Gabrielle groaned and lifted up her head off the stone floor. She found herself lying down on the ground, and she felt immensely groggy. Her head pounded and she felt extremely dirty. Looking down at her dress, she found her whole body to be sooty, as if she had been dragged upon the floor for hours. There was buildup of mud where she had lain, and she struggled to get to her feet.

She was standing in a small room, a tiny straw bed in the opposite corner. There was a rickety bed stand next to the window ledge with a stubby candle on it, its wick tilting to the side. A soft knock came on the door, and someone peeked through. “Lass, you need to wash up before you go see the mistress. You’re a fright to see!” In walked a caramel-skinned elder woman, talking with a thick Ayorthaian accent.

“Where…where am I?” Gabrielle croaked, rubbing her eyes in confusion.

“In a castle outside of Ehana.”

“Ehana…” The name sounded vaguely familiar.

“Don’t you remember child? You were sold to the mistress by a group of young men. You were carried here, and they said you were asleep.”

Gabrielle’s mind suddenly flashed back, and she remembered what had happened. “Oh no…. It’s true then. I really am a servant… I thought it was all a dream…”

“Well, it surely isn’t a dream right now. I’m Minerva, the cook and laundress. What are you called?”

“Gabrielle.”

“Alright then Gabrielle, do you know any Ayorthaian?”

“A little… I’m learning.”

“She won’t be pleased with that. Oh well, come along and wash up. We can’t have you walking in front of the mistress like a complete dirt-diggin’ mole. Best scrub you clean and give you a new dress to wear. Mistress likes her household in order.”

Minerva led Gabrielle to hot room where a wooden tub full of steaming water appeared. There were fluffy folded towels lying on a on a table beside the tub. “Now wash properly and then come to the kitchen down the hallway for a bite to eat before you go in to meet the mistress.” She closed the door behind her.

Gabrielle took off her muddy dress and climbed into the tub. It felt wonderful to be able to soak away the grime and soot on her body, and for those few blissful moments, she forgot that she was a servant. She discovered some creamy, fragrant lavender soap next to the towels which she lathered generously. Spreading the foamy froth on her face, arms and legs, she scrubbed her body and felt her skin become clear and radiant. Her hair was another matter in itself. She took the thick brown mass and detangled the wavy curls, gradually adding some of the oils she found next to the soap. Soon, she felt completely clean and fresh. Stepping out, she grabbed the fleecy towel and hugged its warmth and softness. While she was drying herself, she noticed that the tub water was crystal clear except for a few bubbles here and there. “That’s weird,” she said aloud.

“Gabrielle! Utempo ivaru!” (“Hurry up!”)

“Coming!”

She dried herself completely, refolded the cream-colored towel, and found a periwinkle dress hanging by the window. It had a silk ribbon around the waist with a very elegant neck cut. This can’t be for me! She thought. This dress isn’t fit for a servant! Gabrielle looked around the room, trying to find another garment more suitable for her status, but she saw nothing. Minerva took her old dress, too, so she couldn’t wear that. Even with the risk of getting scolded for wearing such expensive material, she had no choice but to wear it; there was nothing else in the room to use. Slipping it on, she tied the ribbon quickly and ran out the door down the hallway.

While running down the hallway, Gabrielle barely had any time to marvel the beauty of the architecture and artwork. The hallway was magnificent, golden arches of intricate designs on the walls, so thin and delicate as if there were etched by the finest golden pens. There were hanging chandeliers of twinkling crystal, their dazzling light streaming forth. Pictures of solemn distinguished men and women frowned out of their frames in their robes of gold and silver, studded with jewels. It was a sight to see!

Gabrielle had a difficult time finding the kitchen, since there seemed to be a thousand rooms, continuing on for eternity. She finally followed the aroma of freshly-made apple pie to a large room on the left. Minerva was bustling about, pots and pans around the hearth and the fire crackling merrily. “There you are! Sit down and eat,” she commanded.

The young girl obeyed, sitting down and eating the delicious seasoned mushroom soup and dill bread. “By the way…is this dress…suppose to be for me?”

Minerva laughed heartily. “Why of course lass! Who’d you think it was for? The gardener’s son?”

Gabrielle grinned, growing fond of the cook. “No, it was just that…”

“You don’t think a servant would wear that kind of dress, don’t you? Well Lady is good to all her servants. She expects all her servants to be clothed, fed, and treated well.”

Munching on a carrot thoughtfully, she asked, “What’s she like?”

“Hmm… she treats everyone fairly. Very noble, and of course, rich. A bit stubborn, but she listens. And she’s not like usual Ayorthaians who are quiet and keep to themselves. This woman LOVES to talk. A pure passion. That’s probably why not too many townspeople are fond of her… They think she disturbs the peace…”

“Soo… she’s not cruel, right?”

“Of course not! Why, she’s definitely not an ogre if that’s what you mean. She’s a sweet old Ayorthaian lady with a good heart. Of course, she does have her own quirks here and there…”

Gabrielle breathed out a sigh of relief. “Thank goodness…”

“Where did you get that rubbish of an idea?”

“Oh no, I was just wondering…”

Gabrielle began pondering on how she was going to handle the situation. She couldn’t tell Minerva that she WASN’T a slave because the cook wouldn’t buy it. Gabrielle would just have to take her chances with the mistress, and getting to know the lady’s personality and character would be useful in getting herself out of the whole mess. “What else should I know about Lady?”

“Another one of her passions is traveling. If it weren’t for her lame foot right now, she would probably be galloping off on one of her horses to Bast or Frell, or go fraternizing with her fairy friends. But I do declare, her foot is mending slower than usual. When it is the slightest bit healed, she’ll be off like a cork. Oh and yes, she absolutely adores balls and parties of all sorts. I remember once, when she was invited to the masquerade in Frell. She was so excited that she had the tailor make ten different dresses just so she could change every half hour.” Both laughed over the story. Minerva glanced down hastily at Gabrielle’s graceful hand, and saw the glinting silver ring. “That’s a pretty ring, lass.”

“It belonged to my family…”

“Is that so? How funny. When I was in town the other day, I saw a man wearing one that looked exactly the same!”

Gabrielle turned her head to the cook. “Are you positive that it wasn’t just some plain old silver ring?”

“Absolutely. It has the same curves around the rim as yours.”

Gabrielle looked down at the silver ring, twinkling at her. Sure enough, the ring had smooth curves along the rim, a very distinctive feature and giving it a different look. “Do you remember what the man looked like?”

“Hmm… I don’t believe so,” at hearing this, Gabrielle slumped back in her chair, but perked up when she heard, “but I bet I would be able to recognize him if I saw him again. He is usually there in the mornings I believe.”

“When is the next time you’ll be going to the market?”

“I believe in three days. You can come along if you wish.”

“About Lady, do you think she’ll like me?”

“What are with all these questions?” laughed Minerva. “She’s not some mute centaur! Go ask her yourself! She won’t bite!”

“But—”

“Why, she’ll probably enjoy telling you her whole life story. Every single detail from the description of her mother’s seventeenth jewel necklace to how many white hairs her father had. After that however, I want you to come back, scrub the kitchen floor, help wash the minstrel and jester’s laundry, and also cook dinner.”

“Yes but—”

“Now off you go! She’s in her midday room. I have hungry men and mouths to feed! Shoo!” Minerva scooted Gabrielle out the door and left the girl speechless in the hallway.

A bit nervous, Gabrielle wandered down the endless hallways. She was lost, and after awhile, she found herself in a dark corridor, not remembering where she had come from. “Why do they have so many hallways anyways?!” she muttered to herself. Her ring glinted back in response.

Suddenly, she had an idea. Taking off her ring and spinning it, she asked, “Could you… turn into a map of this castle…please?” The ring spun faster and faster, and then became the silvery puddle before leaping back into the air to form a crisp creamy piece of parchment. A map!

“You’re brilliant,” she whispered to the map… While looking at the map, she noticed that she was marked as an X, and Minerva was in the laundry room; there were also many nameless shapes written on the map. Most puzzling of all were that all the shapes were moving! How handy! The rooms were labeled, and so Gabrielle winded around the numerous corridors until she came to “Midday Room.”

The doors to the room were closed shut. They were grand and ravishing, of gold outlined designs and crystal handles and knocker. Before doing anything, Gabrielle kissed the map gently, and wished for it to turn back into the ring. The map which had so faithfully guided her, shrank back to the puddle and hardened into the silver ring which she slipped back onto her finger. Then, looking back up, Gabrielle was almost intimidated by the doors themselves, but she gathered courage and stepped up, taking a hold of the crystal knocker and knocking firmly.

“Come in!” a voice called from inside.

Gabrielle turned the handle silently and opened the door. Her eyes were blinded by the bright beams that streamed down toward her from the long windows. As she stepped in, she noticed that there were rich lavender curtains cascading down, adorning the windows with silver tassels at the ends. In the middle of the grand room were several couches surrounding a curvy silver table. There were bookshelves around the outer edge of the room, books filling every single crack in them and with long wooden ladders reaching up to the very top shelf which seemed to be in the very heavens. The ceiling was covered in paintings of elves, gnomes, centaurs, and other assortment of creatures, surrounding a great silver chandelier.

“You must be Gabrielle.” A voice spoke from the farthest couch.

Gabrielle walked forth towards the voice. “How did you know milady?” Her captors had not known her name and would not have had the ability to tell her master.

“I have my ways of knowing…” the voice continued. Gabrielle walked on and found an old lady in an indigo gown with lace on the edges. The lady’s gray hair was tied up in an elegant bun with a silver holder and her intelligent gray eyes stared back at the young girl’s hazel eyes. This was Lady.

Gabrielle curtsied low, keeping her head down. If she was to persuade Lady, it would be best to be as polite as possible.

“I see your dress has suited you,” she stated with a slight accent, enunciating each word as if it were candy on her tongue, and scrutinizing the dress’s every detail.

“Thank you… for it…”

“No need for thanks, dear. Now whenever that dress becomes dirty or torn, you go ahead and call me or Minerva so we can fetch another one for you. Feel free to ask.”

Gabrielle nodded. “I’ve been meaning to tell you, Lady…” She trailed off at a loss of words.

Lady looked up at her, into her hazel eyes, her own gray eyes turning a misty bluish-charcoal. The elderly woman seemed to be able to absorb Gabrielle’s current thoughts. After a few moments, she glanced away. “What makes you think that you aren’t a servant?”

“I never said anything…”

She waved her hand impatiently. “Now dear, I already know that you want to tell me that you’re not a servant. What makes you think that? I bought you from the dealers, for a good sum I might add.”

Gabi stared, trying to get over the mystery of the lady sitting in front of her. “You… you were mistaken. Those dealers tricked me.”

“Tricked you? How so?”

“I asked them for a ride to Ayortha, and so they brought me willingly. I didn’t know that they would sell me here! I’m not even their property!”

She stroked her long chin. “And how do I know that you’re telling the truth?

“Milady. You have my word and honor that I am telling the absolute truth,” Gabi declared. “I just… have a purpose for my journey…”

“And what is that purpose?”

Gabrielle drew silent, her moistened eyes looking down at the ring on her finger. Lady lifted the girl’s chin peered into Gabrielle’s eyes once more and saw honesty in the young girl’s heart. “Come child… come sit down,” she took Gabi’s hand and led her to sit next to her on the plush couch. “Tell me your story.”

And there Gabrielle sat, hesitantly looking at the elder. But Lady’s kind eyes and manner seemed to reassure Gabi that she was a good mistress of integrity and sincerity. So Gabrielle started off shakily, but grew comfortable as the time passed on. She told her of her pain and the suffering she had bore her whole life. The ill treatment from her mother and sister, the weakening of her father, the two brothers, Aoli, and her quest of finding her true identity. She described everything in such detail (although excluding the part about her ring), even crying a little through the harder moments. All through this, Lady sat there, listening and never interrupting, teardrops running down her cheek when Gabi cried.

When she was done (already far into the late afternoon), Lady took out a handkerchief and dabbed her eyes. “My child, I see you’ve gone through so much already.”

“So you will let me go free?”

“Actually, I can make you an even better offer. I can help you in your quest.”

Gabrielle looked confused. “How could you help me? This is something… that is beyond anyone’s reach besides mine!”

“Not quite m’dear. You’re going to have some trouble finding the information you want.”

“Well that’s true…”

“I can travel anywhere you’d like with ease, and my vast amount of connections can certainly be of some kind of service to you.”

“But… milady, why would you want to help me? Some poor young girl?”

Lady looked thoughtful. “Well, first of all, I love a good bit of adventure, and recently it’s been quite a bore. This seems to be the cure for my ailment. Secondly, I love to help, especially since you’ve come into my care and need it. Lastly and most importantly,” pausing, “I believe your story has truly touched my old heart.”

Gabrielle couldn’t believe her luck. She grabbed the elderly woman’s hand and kissed it. “Thank you Lady! I cannot thank you enough! This brings me one step closer!”

Lady laughed, and looked at the beautiful girl before her with long chestnut hair and freckles speckling her face. The elder’s eyes clouded for a moment as if she were remembering a long-ago memory. “You…remind me so much of…,” she seemed dazed. After a few minutes, the cloudiness finally cleared. “Oh never mind that.” She arose from the couch, her rich velvet gown swishing about. “Come Gabi, let us go eat supper. We have much to discuss.”

Gabrielle stood up and curtsied low. Lady smiled and sauntered over to a side table. Picking up a silver bell, she rang it loudly, and after a few minutes, a butler appeared at the door. “Yes Milady?”

“Is dinner served John?”

“Yes Milady.”

“Good. Please get another place at the table for Gabrielle. We will be coming shortly.”

John looked at Gabrielle and smiled kindly. “Very good madam.”

He turned to leave, but then Lady stopped him. “Oh and John? Inform the other servants of a mix-up with the ‘new’ servant. It was a complete misunderstanding.” She winked at Gabi who beamed back at her.

“Of course madam.”

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Chapter Seven :: Preparations

“Whew!” Gabrielle slumped on her soft bed, worn out from the many tasks of the morning. Lady had offered her the Arabian Temple bedroom (which was adorned with jewels and royal ornaments), but she asked for a simpler room. Reluctantly and after much disagreement, Lady gave her the Celestial Cloud room, a simple room with comfortable surroundings and a beautiful heaven-like theme.

Gabi’s morning had been filled with the planning out of weeks to come. Lady had made travel arrangements so that they would be traveling to several different lands over the weeks to come. Parties and balls were arranged and noted to “increase social circulation” and help Gabi find any possible information she could gather from a variety of people. Lady was extravagant and extremely detailed. Every possible angle to obtain more information was used in the plan, and Lady seemed especially excited to arrange the ball that would be occurring at the estate in only three days. Invitations had been sent out through express carriage to ensure the fastest delivery possible.

Gabrielle rose up, looking around at her room. She felt the cool band of silver around her finger, and was warmed at the tiny trinket that meant so much to her. She had continually checked upon her father who was still in a critical situation, but was surviving. The ring had always been useful: helping her get around the huge estate which was still a giant maze to her, and sometimes being a lantern in dark areas. She still wondered about what the ring had said to her the first day she had discovered its power; it had said something about “true Vornorian” and “Blessed Descent.” What did it all mean?

Someone knocked gently on the door. “Come in,” called Gabi.

John walked in, grinning at the young girl. Over the past days, Gabi and the butler and developed a wonderful friendship. He was always warm and kind, ready to be of any help possible. “Lady wishes to see you, miss.”

“Right away John. Where is she?”

“In the Salon of Days.”

“All right.”

The door closed gently behind him. Gabi scrambled up from her bed and referred with her silver map to double-check where the Salon of Days was. She dashed down the hallways in her radiant yellow dress with golden sash and into the giant room. Lady was sitting at a sofa with parchment paper and quill pens lying before her. She was as beautiful and mysterious as before, with the gracefulness of a queen and the poise of a royal.

“You called, Lady?”

“Yes Gabi. Sit down. I’ve been thinking about the upcoming ball. I’ve sent invitations to the guests whom I think will be useful, but are there any that you would like to have?”

“I don’t really know anyone that would be of any help…”

“Well, think about it. And the instant that you think of anyone, come and tell me. Alright, my dear?”

“Of course!”

Lady looked thoughtful. “Now we must talk about dresses.”

Gabrielle looked up quickly. “Dresses?”

“Why of course Gabi! You didn’t think that you could wear the dress you’re wearing now to a ball, did you?”

“Oh…well…”

“I’ve already called for the dressmaker to come this afternoon for both of us. She does wonderful work, absolutely gorgeous.”

“Lady?”

“Yes, m’dear?”

“Well… don’t you think this is all a bit extravagant? I mean, invitations? Balls? Dresses?”

“Gabi, not only is this going to help you in your search, (believe me it will), but I think it’s time you enjoyed yourself. A nice party is just what you need to uplift spirits and have a bit of fun. Delicious food, beautiful music, and dancing.”

“Dancing????” Gabi leapt up. “But I don’t know how to dance!”

“Hmm… We’ll have to slip in some speedy dancing lessons between these today and the first ball. It won’t be too much trouble.”

So much to do in so little time! Gabi felt excited but nervous for the upcoming ball, uncertain of what would happen…

~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-

That afternoon…

“Stand still child! You’re wriggling like a worm in this dress! Watch out or my pins shall catch hold of your skin!” An elderly woman commanded to the uncomfortable Gabi who was standing upon a short wooden stool wearing yards upon yards of layered fabric with random bundles of lace about. It was a fright to see, for the dressmaker had loaded piles of bright jungle green fabric over dark purple silk. Orange feathers with tiny red dots protruded from her back in erratic fashion. The sleeves seemed to be hacked off in uneven places with slits near her shoulders “to add flavor.” Gabi looked frightened as she gazed at herself in the large mirror. Lady was looking on nearby approvingly, completely oblivious to the horror accumulating before her.

Gabi replied, “I really don’t think all of this is necessary…” as the woman added on large wooden beaded chains to droop from elbows.

“Nonsense child! Allow an expert to do her work. You, are a masterpiece!” cried the dressmaker.

“You’re beautiful, dearest. More feathers in the back, Norlia,” murmured Lady.

“Of course Lady. Now child, allow me to add the finishing touch. You will be the talk of the ball.” The dressmaker opened up her carpetbag and searched for something. Gabi closed her eyes tightly, not wanting to see what monstrosity would be added to the “dress” upon her. “Ah here it is,” shouted Norlia happily.

Gabi (her eyes remaining shut) felt something being added to her dress, and could hear the woman walking around her. After the artisan circled around her and talked with herself (“this is too much” or “hmm… this is absolutely gorgeous”), Gabi felt a cool breeze run through the room. Then, the soft hand of the dressmaker touch hers. “Open your eyes, dearest.”

Gabi slowly opened her eyes to find her reflection in the mirror. Instead of finding the abstract-looking dress, she saw herself looking at a dress that was simply breathtaking. The whole dress was a shimmering copper- colored velvet which reached down to her toes. Instead of the drooping beads from her elbows, she found a soft wrap of a lighter shade but still beautifully matching the dress. Instead of a large, awkward hoop skirt, she found that layers of lightweight but elevating material had been expertly woven in underneath to provide swishiness and elegance without the whole ordeal of carrying around a hoop skirt. The dress had no sleeves, but instead had medium straps that were intricately woven in the back where the orange feathers had been. The neckline was modest, a bit ruffled to bring out the shimmer and sheer of the overall dress, but not too low. Gabi stared breathless at the great change before her. “How did you… what on… it’s…. it’s beautiful!”

Norlia smiled. “Of course! I told you it was a masterpiece!”

Gabi sputtered, “But, but it didn’t look anything like it was before!”

Lady chuckled. “Why of course not! You think either of us would allow you to go to a ball in that dreadful thing? Anyway, that’s how Norlia works. She’s a fairy.”

“A fairy???”

“Yes, and this type of magic is called Reverse Eolian. Norlia must provide the enchanted fabric and such, and then when all is set, she summons a Dress Breeze to come and do its work..”

“How amazing! Norlia, is this how you make all your dresses?”

“Why yes! We dress fairies are actually some of a rare few who can expose themselves legally in the fairy world. But even so, we expose quite carefully.”

Gabi nodded, and then gazed once against at her dress in awe. She stepped down from the pedestal and twirled around, delighted.

Norlia was gazing at the brown-haired girl thoughtfully. “What did you say your name was?”

“Her name is Gabi,” answered Lady, admiring the dress.

“You… you remind me so much of…” she whispered.

Gabi stopped midtwirl. “Of who?”

Norlia looked confused, then dazed as a mist washed over her eyes as if something had reoccurred in her mind. In a monotonous voice, she replied, “I do not know. I know nothing,” as if she had been commanded to speak so.

“Are you all right Norlia?” Lady asked.

Norlia shook her head out of the daze. “Yes I’ll be fine. Just a momentary bit of confusion, that’s all.” She turned to Gabi. “Well m’dear, you look wonderful. My work here is done. Lady? I’ll come have your dress made tomorrow.”

“All right. Ciao Norlia!” Lady spoke to the exiting elderly woman.

“Yes thank you Norlia!” Gabrielle dashed after the open door and called into the hallway.

~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~

Norlia hobbled home as fast as she could on her wobbly legs. Her home, a cave, was hidden in the woods by a nearby waterfall. Night had overtaken the sky, and wolves could be heard in the distance.

She opened the creaking wooden door to the cave and hurried in, closing the door quietly behind her. The room was dark, but she let out a sigh of relief.

“You seem out of breath, Norlia.” A steel voice replied from the darkness.

The elderly woman’s eyes looked around in fear. “Who’s there?”

The fire burst ablaze, and a woman sat in the armchair, her fiery eyes sparkling. “Oh, it’s you Erwen,” Norlia breathed, wiping away the sweat from her forehead.

“What happened today Norlia? My messengers have told me that something is amiss. Tell me,” demanded Erwen, pawing her long silver tresses.

Norlia sat down, catching her breath. “I believe I saw…” she trailed off, but looked directly at Erwen.

Erwen peered into the eyes and immediately understood. “The child. You saw her. Are you sure?”

“Fairly. I was incapable of telling them who I thought she was, because of the law.”

“Yes, I know,” Erwen sat stroking her chin thoughtfully. “He will want to know. He’s been searching…”

“Shouldn’t we tell him?”

“No! Leave this to me. I will handle the situation. You are not allowed to tell the child anything. At all.”

Norlia bowed her head. “Yes, Erwen.”

“Good, good. No doubt she is trying to find out her past.”

“She has the ring…”

“Does she know??!!” Erwen’s ears perked up. “How absolutely divine. And does she wear it?”

“Yes. She had it on when I was making her dress.”

“Excellent.” Erwen’s eyes glinted with malice. “Keep a close eye on her, Norlia, and report to me about her whereabouts and other tidbits. I want to know everything.”

“And what about the Lady?”

“Pshaw! Nothing to worry about. If she gets in the way we shall have her eliminated,” scoffed Erwen. “She is to remain alive, Norlia.”

“Yes Erwen.”

“At least for now…”

~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~

Chapter Eight :: The Ball

The melodies of the orchestra (positioned in the Great Hall of Reflection) enveloped the whole castle and could be heard all the way from Gabrielle’s room. The ball was only minutes away and guests were arriving at an alarming rate. Gabi glanced at herself in the full-length mirror, wondering at the girl looking back at her. Her reflection was wearing the same beautiful shimmery copper-colored velvet dress with the sash elegantly draped on the arms and around the back. The girl’s clear hazel eyes sparkled back, her long flowing chestnut hair twisted back into an intricately woven mass. The ends of her hair were slightly curled, creating a flowing complete look.

The door opened slightly, and Lady walked in wearing a darker silver dress, matching her misty eyes. Her charcoal hair was tied tightly in a braided bun with tiny silver butterflies perched upon the coils of hair. “Ready my dear?”

Gabrielle turned. “Yes, Lady.”

Lady smiled and reached for Gabi’s hand. “Have fun my dear. Remember what you’ve learned, and what we talked about.”

Gabi squeezed her hand warmly. “I won’t forget.”

~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~

Couples were dancing around the ballroom to the music while many groups were talking near the side and staircase. Gabi had not danced for no one had asked, but she did not know that many of the guests were inquiring about the “beautiful brown-haired girl in the copper dress” and who she was. She strolled along the different conversations, hearing tidbits here and there of a variety of topics.

“The ogres have become more active lately,” a man with an eyepiece was telling his friend.

“Really now?” The friend responded.

“Have you heard the whereabouts of Sir Vincent?” A lady asked a group of other ladies.

“…And I believe the river is continually growing more and more…”

“My summer estate in the mountains shall be quite delightful…”

Gabi trailed around, when suddenly someone tapped her from behind. “Excuse me, but we noticed you around the room and decided to introduce ourselves!” spoke a loud voice. Gabi spun around to find herself being enveloped in a huddle of girls her own age, all with exceptionally revealing dresses that should have been deemed inappropriate.

“My name is Lady Bernadette,” a blonde girl cried in a high pitched voice as she looked around the room seeing if any of the young knights had heard.

“And I am Lady Veronica,” a curly red-haired girl bellowed as she battered her eyelashes. She was the one who had tapped Gabi.

“Lady Priscilla,” muttered brunette who seemed engrossed in scratching her arms.

All three girls turned to the last girl who was fanning herself lightly. She was indeed the prettiest of them all, with long silky black hair and a slim figure. Veronica announced, “This is Lady Yvonne.”

Yvonne scrutinized Gabi with hawk eyes. Gabi, remembering her manners, curtseyed and replied, “Pleased to meet you.”

“Now that we’ve introduced ourselves, pray tell, what is your name?”

“My name is…” she paused, “Lady Gabrielle.”

“Enchanted,” cooed Bernadette.

“Thrilled,” caressed Veronica.

“Enthralled,” cried Priscilla.

The three all turned to Yvonne for approval, watching the black- haired girl’s bright green eyes for any spark of interest or praise. Yvonne simply tossed her hair back flauntingly and spoke for the first time in a purring tone, “Charmed.”

Gabrielle eyed the other girls, feeling uncomfortable with their eyes scrutinizing her every movement. But then the girls suddenly burst out into rapid conversation like babbling squirrels.

“Why Bernie, I do so love your dress! It’s so refined,” Veronica gushed as she eyed the mass of orange and brown fabric upon Bernadette’s plump figure.

“Isn’t it magnific…” Bernadette started.

“Of course, my dress is refined AND scrumptious.” Veronica finished her thought, gazing fondly at her dress which would have been decent if it had not been for the fact that the seams kept on popping all over.

“Oh girls, have you heard the news?? My father has promised to buy a sapphire pendant for me with diamonds surrounding the blue jewel! Can you guess how many diamonds there will be??” Priscilla chattered excitedly, flouncing her hair back and forth from left to right.

“Nine?”

“Ten?”

“Eleven!!” Priscilla confirmed smugly. Veronica and Bernadette squealed uncontrollably while Yvonne simply looked on, a slight curl of a smile upon her lips.

Gabrielle was beginning to get a headache. Such superficiality! How could one bear it? But there was no escape. The girls had surrounded her like a jail cell.

“Ladies,” Yvonne called. Immediately all attention was given to the speaker, and Yvonne soaked it all in like a sponge. “Have you heard the latest news about the prince?”

The girls became jittery with excitement. “Oh dearest Yvonne, do tell us,” cried Bernadette in a pleading tone.

Priscilla nudged Gabi and whispered, “Yvonne has special connections and inside information of the prince of Ayortha. She knows the prince personally, and we all believe that he is absolutely smitten with her.”

Yvonne spoke, “Well girls, it seems as if the prince has departed from his castle…” She looked around suspiciously and leaned forward, whispering, “on an experiment!”

The girls gasped (with Gabi observing the spectacle) passionately. “An experiment?”

“Yvonne! How DID you find out?”

“Has he written to you?”

Yvonne smirked. “Allow me to explain.” The girls all hushed each other, hanging on every one of Yvonne’s words. “I don’t know all the details, but I do believe that the prince is working on a new experiment of his away from the castle! Of course he can go around to different social gatherings if he pleases.”

“An experiment! How absolutely divine!” Priscilla shouted, swooning.

“He’s so strong, so handsome, so intelligent…” Bernadette was almost in tears.

“What kind of experiment?” Gabi asked.

Yvonne’s eyes narrowed, while the other girls whirled around to Gabi. “It doesn’t matter WHAT KIND of experiment it is,” Veronica snapped in defense of Yvonne. “Just that it’s the PRINCE’S experiment!” The other girls nodded in agreement. Gabi knew that they were only covering up for Yvonne, and that the black-haired girl did not know anything else.

“But ANYWAY, the prince hasn’t written to me YET, but I do believe that’s only because he’s been preoccupied,” Yvonne continued.

“Excuse me ladies,” the voice of a young man interrupted, “but I was wondering if you,” he turned to Gabi “would honor me with this dance?”

Gabi smiled, thanking the man in her mind for rescuing her from the torture of having to listen to the flock of giggling gossiping girls. She curtsied, “Of course.” Turning back to the girls, “Excuse me ladies. It was lovely talking with you.”

The young man led her away to the dance floor where they began the waltz. Gabi was a bit nervous, praying that the dance lessons in the previous days would pay off.

“You’re tense,” the young man replied, scratching his red hair briefly.

Gabi laughed lightly. “I don’t dance often.”

“Well you needn’t worry. You dance delightfully.”

“Thank you!”

“My name is Sir Kal, but Kal is fine. And you are…”

“Lady Gabrielle. Gabi, please.”

“And where are you from?”

“…Akardia, but I’m visiting Lady now.”

“Oh really!” His blue eyes sparkled. “Do you know everyone there?”

“Mostly… Why?”

“One of my very best friends resides there currently.”

Gabi changed the subject abruptly, not wanting to gather much attention about Akardia. “And where are you from?”

“Well I was born in Ehana, but I have been sent to live in the king’s castle to study with the other son of dukes and learn to grow up to become a properly-mannered knight.” Gabi detected a hint of sarcasm.

“That must be so wonderful! Being able to live in the king’s castle!”

“To tell you the truth, my friends and I have gotten sick of it. The same old thing every single day! And everyone treating you as if you weren’t human! I mean, don’t get me wrong, the royal family’s warm and friendly and most of the ladies and knights are fine, but…”

“…it grows tiresome!” Gabi finished for him.

Kal exclaimed, “Exactly!”

The orchestra flowed into a livelier song. “You don’t understand how much I need to thank you,” Gabi told him.

Kal grinned. “And why’s that?”

“Because those girls were just….so…”

“Superficial? Provocative? Utterly fake?”

Gabi laughed; he reminded her so much of Phillip. “What about all of the above?”

“Absolutely. You looked like you needed some help. Those girls were all over you like a pack of vultures. And so of course I come to the rescue, saving the day once again.”

Her laugh rang out. “Of course you’ll have to think of a different excuse to pull me out next time!”

The dance ended, and Kal gallantly bowed. “Thank you for the dance!”

She curtsied. “I enjoyed it!”

They walked to the dessert table and struck up an interesting conversation. Suddenly, Kal waved his hand in the air excitedly. “Hey! Over here! How have you been??”

Gabi set her glass down to see who it was. Before she could do so, she heard a voice exclaim, “Gabi??!!!”

She whirled around and saw the auburn hair, blue eyes, distinct features. Her mouth opened in disbelief. “Phillip??!!!!”



~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~

A/N: Working on next chapter…. The ball will be in two or more parts. R/R! P.S. I just decided to put this fic in the Ella Enchanted section because I use the book’s settings with Ayortha and that whole kind of thing.

Chapter Nine :: Surprises

“What…what are you doing here?” Phillip exclaimed in shock. He was so overcome with amazement and happiness that he was grinning and looking confused at the same time.

“I was about to ask you the same thing!” Gabi was certainly happy to see him, but it made no sense whatsoever! Here Phillip was, looking completely incredible in formal court clothes! What was a tavern keeper’s son doing at a ball full of courtiers?

“You first,” Phillip said, picking up a drink and moving closer to Kal.

“Well… I…I’m visiting Lady, who is a… family friend of mine… and well… here I am!” Gabi replied nervously. “And what about you?”

“Heh heh. Um… Kal… invited me.” Phillip eyed his friend and smiled.

Kal choked on his drink while Philip patted his back heartily. “Is that true?” Gabi asked.

“Sure, Gabi. Sure,” Kal smiled and swigged his drink. “So Phillip? When did you show up?”

“A couple minutes ago. Been dancing a lot?”

“Oh you know it! Can’t keep the girls off me,” Kal chuckled while looking quite smug with himself.

Gabi laughed. “I just danced with him,” she informed Phillip.

“Oh, I see.” He hesitated. “Since my best friend here has had a chance to dance with you, may I have the honor as well?”

“Why, I’d love to!” She curtsied.

They left Kal company with the punch table and moved to the dance floor. A few whispers could be heard through the crowds as ladies and knights inquired of “the fine young man and girl in the copper-colored dress.” Phillip and Gabi did not pay any attention to the murmurs around the room; they simply danced to the beautiful music.

“Gabi…”

“Mmm?”

“You look…soo….” Phillip seemed so overcome as he gazed at Gabrielle.

“Different since the last time you saw me?” She laughed.

He smiled. “Yes, well that too. Beautiful. That was the word I was searching for.”

“Thank you. Although you look quite different since last time as well,” she replied while tugging on his formal navy robe. “Do you come to balls often?”

“I’ve never quite enjoyed them, although this time has been all right. Kal keeps me company usually.”

“How is your family doing in Akardia?”

Phillip looked confused a bit, and then snapped back to attention. “Oh! Business is wonderful. Mother and Father are enjoying themselves of course. Uh.. Luke is as mischievous as ever.”

“I’m glad!” Gabrielle thought about the loving family who had taken care of her before. “I’ve missed Akardia more than I thought I would,” she replied, thinking of Father.

“Why did you leave in the first place?”

“Oh! Well… I needed… to find myself.”

“That’s what you told me before.”

“You remember?”

He grinned. “Of course. How could I forget?”

Gabi spun around. “Are you enjoying yourself at this ball?”

“You bet. Usually they’re really long and boring, but this one’s different.”

“Usually?”

“Um, I mean the ones that I’m invited to. Y’know, Gabi. I’m really glad that I was able to see you tonight.”

She blushed. “Same here.”

“Are you planning on going to any future balls?”

“I think Lady has some planned.”

“Great. Plan to see me there.”

The music changed into a lively and spirited dance, too fast for conversation, but both Gabi and Phillip enjoyed it, flying around the dance floor hand in hand.

Afterwards they walked to the punch table where Kal was happily working on his fourth glass. “Have fun?” He asked, taking another drink.

“Lots,” Phillip smiled.

No one noticed the flock of girls strolling over from the crowd until Priscilla spoke in a shrill voice, “Excuse me!”

The threesome turned to the girls. Yvonne, taking no regard of Gabi, looked with interest in Kal, and with even more interest in Phillip. She cleared her throat and looked around as if waiting for someone. The entire group waited in awkward silence until Bernadette nudged Phillip roughly with her large arm and whispered, “Psst! Ask her to dance!”

Phillip’s blue eyes flashed as he gave a look to Kal who only shrugged, not knowing what to do. He then turned to Gabi, asking her with his eyes “Are you okay with it?” Gabi nodded and pointed to Kal, meaning that she would take care of Kal, who seemed to be getting addicted to the slightly alcoholic punch.

The young man understood. In his most polite voice, he replied, “Ahem. Lady Yvonne, I… err… believed you wished to dance?”

Yvonne looked at him, acting surprised. Then she narrowed her almond- shaped eyes, as she realized that he wasn’t formally asking her but was trying to work his way out of it. She heaved a loud sigh. “Fine,” she thrust her hand out, and rolled her eyes impatiently. Phillip led her to the floor like a gentleman and began dancing. The remainder of the girls looked onward at the couple in beaming adoration.

“Oh it’s so wonderful…” Veronica exhaled.

“I completely agree,” Bernadette fanned herself.

“Beautiful,” Priscilla murmured.

Kal looked drowsy and slumped a bit. Gabi held his arm, giving him support. “Uhh… Kal? I think you need to get away from the punch table.” She set down his glass and pulled him outdoor for a breath of fresh air on the balcony.

Outside was a beautiful night, the crescent moon bright and glowing with twinkling stars around. Gabrielle stared upward, finding the same constellations she had before.

“Gabi?” Kal groaned, holding his head in his hand.

“I’m right here, Kal. Are you okay?”

“I’ll be all right.”

She sat down next to him on the marble bench. “Kal, those girls, do you know anything about them?”

Kal nodded, rubbing his eyes. “Well sure, I mean, they’re only about the heiresses of the largest fortunes in all the kingdoms put together. But money isn’t enough for them, they want more power too. Yvonne especially. The other three are just her little sidekicks.”

“I noticed…”

“Yvonne’s the ringleader. She has high hopes in marrying the prince and everything. Horrible girl. I remember being in fencing lesson when I was seven years old, and she and her group of tagalongs were watching our class. Well I lost the duel, and I remember them laughing at me. Yvonne made fun of me so much, right in front of our instructor too! But since she had such a powerful family, the instructor didn’t dare scold her.” Kal suddenly grinned. “Afterwards I was able to get her back.”

Gabrielle laughed. “Oh dear, what did you do?”

“I put some green dye in her tea. It stained her teeth for three weeks.”

She laughed. “Serves her right. But I remember Yvonne boasting about her relationship with the prince. The girls all fancy that he is taken with her.”

Kal snorted. “Of course not! He’s just playing along. Being the gallant and polite chap that he’s suppose to. Chivalry and all. If it was me that she was trying to dirty her hands in, I’d give HER a fencing lesson to remember.”

Gabi smiled her beautiful smile, but then a thought dawned upon her. She turned to Kal, and asked in a serious tone, “You’re very good friends with the prince, aren’t you?”

Kal leaned back and replied nonchalantly, “Correct.”

“Best friends, perhaps?”

“Yes, one of them at least.” He closed his eyes.

“So you know him very well?”

“Of course.”

“Grew up with him?”

“Known him since he was a baby.”

“And you’ve been through everything with him, correct?”

“Yes ma’am.”

“How old is he?”

“About my age.”

“Is he living in Akardia now?”

“Uh huh.” Kal replied casually, then he sat up quickly and looked at Gabi with wide eyes. “I mean… no! Why of course not!”

Gabi looked away as the truth settled down in her mind. The prince was who else but Phillip himself. She slumped back.

Kal rubbed his head sheepishly. “Err… you know, don’t you?”

“Yes…” she murmured.

“Kind of a shock, eh?”

“Somewhat. I was beginning to suspect.” So that was why Yvonne had wanted to dance with him. Phillip! The prince! And here she was, a maiden who had come from nothing, befriending not only a courtier, but the prince himself! “He doesn’t seem like a prince at all.”

Kal chuckled. “Tell me about it. Uh, Gabi? Don’t tell anyone you know. It’s suppose to be very… hush hush.”

“I understand. I won’t say a word.”

“Promise?”

“Absolutely.”

Phillip rushed outside, breathing in draughts of fresh air. “There… you are… Couldn’t…get…away from…them…must…hide.”

“Haha! Come sit down here.” Kal gestured. “How was dancing?”

“Horrible. I couldn’t get away. After each dance as I tried to get away, Yvonne’s three friends would gang up on me and basically force me to dance with Yvonne!”

“What, you couldn’t have said no?” Kal asked.

“How could I? It wouldn’t have been proper.” Phillip sighed. “I tell you, the next time they ask me to dance I’m going to pretend to throw up or SOMETHING.”

“Don’t pretend. Actually do it. That’ll repel in an instant.” Kal suggested.

Gabi sat there quietly, half listening to the conversation and half thinking. How should she act to a prince? It would be awkward since she was only a pauper…

“Gabi? You okay?” Phillip asked.

She snapped out of her thoughts and look at him strangely. Kal sat up straight and quickly said, “Oh yeah! She’s fine. Probably just a slight chill, that’s all.” He patted her on the back and gave her a you-just- promised look.

Gabi shut her eyes for a moment, her head pounding for some odd reason, and then replied, “I’m fine… I think I’m going to call it a night. I don’t feel so good…” She stood up, a bit faint, and staggered as she tried to walk. Phillip and Kal both grabbed her arms as she completely collapsed, unconscious.

“What in the world…” Phillip adjusted Gabi’s body for more support.

“It’s like she’s been drugged or something!” The red-haired young man exclaimed.

“What’d she have to drink?”

“The same punch as I did.”

“Anything different about her drink compared with yours?”

“The same great stuff! Although… I took the liberty of serving myself some. The old woman behind the table handed a glass to her while you were with Yvonne on the dance floor.”

“Old woman?”

“Uh huh. A hobbling old character.”

“Point her out to me through the window.”

Kal peered inside and squinted around the room, glancing from the punch table to any other positions where servants would be. “She’s not there anymore. Must be on a dinner break or the servants may have switched positions.”

“Well we’ll worry about that later. Let’s get her to her room.”

“Uh… and where is that exactly?”

Phillip scratched his head. “I’m not exactly sure… Let’s bring her around through a different entrance so we don’t make a scene in front of everyone. I’m sure one of the servants knows where her room is.”

“All right. Gosh, she doesn’t look too good.”

“Let’s just hope that it’s not too serious…”

~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~

On the other side of Lady’s castle…

Erwen paced back and forth, anxious and irritable. Footsteps were heard coming closer in an uneven pattern of rhythm. An old woman appeared out of the darkness.

Erwen’s fiery eyes were ablaze. “Yes?”

The old woman came into the dim moonlight. “I did it. I watched her drink it too.”

“Good, good. And?”

“She should be in the perfect condition that you want her to be by tomorrow morning.”

“Excellent. You’ve performed well, Norlia.”

Norlia bowed low. “There is… one… minor thing.”

She raised an eyebrow. “What? Explain yourself, quickly.”

The old woman humbled herself and spoke rapidly. “I came out periodically to observe her and her conditions. But a good deal later, I could find her anywhere. She didn’t faint or make a big scene because the courtiers would have been talking about her. She just simply, disappeared.”

Erwen narrowed her eyes and pawed her glinting tresses. “You’re quite lucky this is only a minor offense. No matter where she is, the potion will be in effect on her at the designated time. Think no more of it. We shall find her.”

“It is your wish, Erwen…”

~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~

Chapter Ten :: Discovery

“Uhhh….” Gabrielle groaned as she felt her head pounding.

“Take it easy there, Gabi.” A gruff voice spoke.

Her eyes opened slightly, and she found herself lying in her room on her fluffy bed. The curtains were drawn, but rays of soft sunlight still breached through the creamy silk fabric draped around the windows. Suddenly, her eyes snapped wide open as she sat upright quickly. Twitchy mustache. Charcoal eyes. Was it who she thought it was? “AOLI????? Ouch…” She fell back again, feeling a sharp pain surge through her head.

He chuckled and sat beside her. “Hey there, calm down.”

“What in the world?? I can’t believe it… I thought you were…”

“Dead? Hardly.”

“But I saw you! You were fighting with…”

“Hmm yes. But in the end I got the better of him. He was bleeding a bit, and I had to run off before anyone saw me. I tried following you but you were already too far ahead.”

Gabrielle looked puzzled. “Then… why are you here?”

“You were in a bit of trouble.”

“All I remember is…” her eyes widened as she exclaimed, “the ball! Oh no! What happened?”

“I’ve been told that through the middle of the ball, you drank something quite deadly, and next thing you know, you became unconscious. Two of your friends had to carry you here.”

“Phillip and Kal. I can’t believe it! Ugh… I feel so light-headed.” Gabrielle closed her eyes.

“Steady there. The counter medicine is doing its job.”

“If the drink was so dangerous, then how did I survive?”

Aoli grinned. “That’s where I come in. I was summoned by Lady to help you.”

“You? But, what do you know about potions and such?”

“A great deal actually.”

“I don’t understand… The drink, could I have died?”

“Even worse. That particular potion that you drank has an ancient spell woven into it, older than my knowledge. I’m not exactly sure what the exact effect would have been. You wouldn’t have died, but I believe you might have been under some time of spell or control of another.”

A shudder ran through Gabi’s body. “I don’t know why anyone would want to do that though. I’m not anyone special… I’m simply a girl from a little town… a nobody.”

“Obviously not. You were poisoned for a reason.” Aoli took a deep breath. “Which is why… I need to ask you some things Gabi.”

“Of course.”

“Why did you leave Akardia?”

“I needed to find the truth… about who I am and about my family. The family that I was with lied to me ever since I was a child.”

He stroked his chin thoughtfully. “And so… you don’t know who your family is, or anything about your heritage?”

“Nothing.”

“Where’d you get that ring?” He pointed at her silver ring.

“My father gave it to me when I was about to leave.”

“Amazing… May I see it?”

Gabi slipped it off her finger, feeling the cool smooth touch of the silver. She handed it to him. To her amazement, he took off a bronze ring from his ringer and held the two rings in his hand. The two rings glowed briefly, and then both became liquid.

“Your ring! I didn’t know you had…” Gabi exclaimed. She stopped midair as the liquids combined and then hovered over Aoli’s hand. Spinning with rays of light breaking through, the combined rings stopped and became a sheet of thin metal. On the sheet was a message:

Il ënçxwp kchónoli.

Both stared at the message in awe. “Aoli…” Gabi whispered. “What.. what does it say?”

“I can’t believe it,” he murmured.

“Aoli, what is it?”

“It’s written in an ancient language, and although I cannot read the language, this phrase is recognized all over. Translated, it says ‘And so it shall be.’”

“What does it mean?”

“This phrase has been passed down generation and generation from old. It is so old that it almost became a myth, a legend. But here it is, written before my very eyes.”

Gabrielle waited patiently as Aoli paused a moment, and then sat down on the wooden chair behind him. He began, hesitantly. “Long ago, there were two twin princess born to the ancient fairy kingdom of Vornor. They were both as different as night and day. The eldest (named Rowêna) had the fairest white hair in the land, as pure as white snow, while the other (named Cèste) had rich silky ebony hair, as black as the darkest Indian ink. The sisters loved each other dearly, and grew up strong and willful.’

‘But there was always the question of who would ascend the throne. Years later when both the queen and king had passed on and the twins were only eighteen, the will was opened to answer the question. By that time, Rowêna had felt a growing resentment toward her younger twin because of some unknown jealousy. Cèste, in an attempt to make an ultimate peace between the two, persuaded her sister that the outcome of the will should not decide the outcome of their relationship. But the will was read, and the one to ascend the throne was none other than Cèste. Rowêna, in complete and utter fury, stormed out of the fairy kingdom and vanished into the wilderness.’

‘Fifty years of peaceful reign passed by. Through that time, the queen fell in love with a young knight and even had a beautiful baby girl. Joy had settled upon the kingdom, and the fairies loved and revered Queen Cèste because of her kind and just rule. The elder twin princess had by then been assumed dead and forgotten.’

‘On the queen’s birthday celebration, mysterious dark storm clouds hovered over the kingdom, blocking out the sun. Hideous cries arose from behind the closed golden gate of the city walls, and the townspeople were in fear. The gate was broken, and in poured an entire army of mutant fairies, called Urliba (which in the ancient language means “the deceitful”). These fairies were so delved in evil and malice that they had evolved into creatures of shapeshifting. At the head of the army was none other than a fair young maiden, clothed in a black robe, white hair long and flowing. Rowêna.’

‘The old queen looked out from her balcony upon the massacre raging on upon the streets of her beloved city. She had sent her soldiers to push the opposition out, but it was impossible. How could you possibly win against creatures who could change their shape at will? Screams of anguish could be heard ringing in the air.’

‘Suddenly, the queen heard over all the noise a voice so loud and powerful that it shook the very foundations of the castle. “Cèste! I have returned!”’

‘The queen rushed to where the voice came from, and looking down, she pleaded, “Sister! Why are you doing this to our people?” Cèste’s gentle aging hazel eyes saw that her sister had hardly aged at all.’

‘Rowena’s green eyes were ablaze in hatred, her white hair blowing in the cold howling wind. “You fool,” she snarled. “How dare you take what is mine and call it for your own. It is MY throne! MY people! MY destiny!” She whirled around to the the Urliba and cried, “Kill her and everyone in the castle! I will not have such filth in my kingdom!”’

‘The old queen looked up in fear, and ran from the balcony as she heard arrows rush past her, missing her by an inch. She ran and brought her daughter and the body of her murdered husband to a secret vault at the top of the castle. Locking themselves in, she turned to her daughter and explained quickly, ‘It will not be long before they destroy everyone in this kingdom. They will find this room, and there will be no hope for the future of the Vornorians. That is why you must save yourself.”’

‘“How?” the princess asked.’

‘The elder queen took her hand. “My sister has turned into an evil sorceress, I can see it in her eyes; that is why she hasn’t aged all these years. I know what she is trying to do, though. By killing all the true inhabitants of Vornor, she will then be able to use an evil spell to reenact Vornor kingdom in her image and liking, ruling it till the ends of time.”’

‘The princess gasped. “Oh mother!”’

‘“Dearest, listen. She can only use the evil spell if she kills everyone, but that will not happen. You see, she is not aware of the fact that in the will of our mother and father was a hidden spell, the oldest of time. This spell creates a ring through the blood and life of a mother, which will protect the holder from the evil. If that ring is taken from the holder and claimed by the evil itself, then the evil will succeed.”’

‘The princess squeezed her mothers hand, tears running silently down her face. “You’re going to sacrifice your life for me?”’

‘“Yes. I am old and will die soon. This is an action of love not only for you, my child, but also for my people. You must carry the royal Vornor line, and keep away from Rowêna. Warn your children. Make them aware. If the ring is taken, all is lost.”’

‘The queen, taking a small black pot and heating silver upon the fire, took a dagger and stabbed herself in the fleshy area of her arm where the blood was circulating most. The crimson stream poured out into the thick molten silver while the queen chanted some words, closing her eyes and bearing the pain. The princess, with teary eyes, observed a soft radiating glow pour out with her mother’s blood, and she knew that her mother was giving up her soul. The pouring stopped, and the queen almost collapsed from lack of not only blood, but life. She took the pot and carried it to the table where she transferred the mixture into the ring mold. As the silver set, she whispered over and over again the words, “Il ënçxwp kchónoli. Il ënçxwp kchónoli. Il ënçxwp kchónoli” until she was gasping for breath, her face an ashen white. The princess helped her mother to a chair and clasped her mother’s cold hand, trying to put some warmth back into it.’

‘“Mother…” the princess sobbed.’

‘The queen shook her head. “No time,” she croaked. “We must make another ring. The holder shall be your guardian.” She stood up weakly and managed to melt copper in the pot. After the copper was melted, she brought the pot next to her husband’s body. Taking the dagger the same way, she drew blood and combined it, saying the same chant as she did for the silver ring.’”

‘Banging could be heard on the door, and evil shouts and snarls were heard from the outside. “She’s in here!” cried the unmistakable steely voice of Rowêna.’

‘The queen took the still warm copper ring and the silver ring and placed them in her hand, chanting the same incantation. Both blazed intensely and then cooled. “Quickly! Take both of them!” the queen placed the rings in her daughter’s hand urgently. “Give the guardian ring to someone you would trust with not only your life, but the life of all those around you! Now go!”’

‘The door burst open just as the princess vanished in mid air and the queen collapsed onto the floor next to her husband, on the brink of death. Rowêna took out a long-edged sword, walked over to her only sister and was about to stab downwards when Cèste took out a dagger and cried out, “I will not have you go through the suffering of killing your twin!” With that, she stabbed herself, a small portion of whatever blood that was left in her body flowing outwards onto the floor.’”

Aoli paused for a moment, taking a deep breath. “No one knows how the story ends, but the phrase on your ring is none other than the ring that the queen made for the princess. My ring is none other than the ring of the guardian, passed down from my father’s father to my father, and finally to me.”

Gabrielle sat, entranced at the story and the graphic detail that Aoli had described it in. Aoli continued, “Yes, I am a fairy. You are a fairy. Since you are able to wear that ring safely, that also means that you are THE direct descendent of the princess. And that also means that Rowêna, wherever she may be, has some inkling that you are that descendent. That is why you were poisoned.”

Gabrielle’s eyes widened as she stared at Aoli in utter amazement. “Aoli, why did the queen use the incantation ‘Il ënçxwp kchónoli’?”

“I believe she was binding the rings, binding the spell. That incantation symbolizes the servant hood of the guardian to the Vornorian holder. It is an everlasting bond.”

“Me? A fairy???? That’s impossible.”

“You are certainly a portion fairy, if not all. But that’s the least of my concerns. Rowêna is as dangerous as ever. Who knows how much her power has grown, and just the fact that she knows that you might be the Vornorian she’s been searching for all these years is danger enough.”

“What should we do?”

“First, you must choose trustworthy comrades who will help you upon your journey. These friends must be willing to protect and defend you, but without knowing the truth about Rowêna. It is too much of a risk for them to know that precious of information.”

Gabrielle nodded, and she instantly knew the friends she would choose. If they would accept, of course.

“All right, Gabi. Let us prepare…”

~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~

Minerva slipped into the shadows of her hut, taking off her apron and turning a dim lantern on. Lady had given her the night off, to her dismay. She wanted to stay so that she could observe Gabrielle more as well as the actions of the mysterious man who Lady summoned. What was he doing there? Who was he?

“Norlia! Why are you back so early?” A voice asked sharply.

Minerva whirled around to the familiar voice. “Lady gave me early dismissal. I think she’s beginning to become a bit suspicious of me because she watched my closely as I left. She even sent the butler to escort me out of the castle.”

“I see…. Well you will just have to either use your original state or acquire some new body to infiltrate the castle! I want you in there as much as possible!”

Minerva’s face brightened in the light and it began melting, her skin oozing down like a thick goo. Skin all over her arms began changing as well, becoming more wrinkled and aged. She closed her eyes, and when she opened them, her voice was huskier. “Something interesting happened today.”

“What?”

“Lady summoned a man right before I left, but she didn’t tell me why. He went into Gabrielle’s room, and when I snuck a peek, I believe he was chanting some kind of spell or meditation. He must be…”

“Hmm… yes. The guardian. IF she’s the one…”

“What should I do?”

“Keep an even closer eye on her. You are my eyes and ears. Note everything she does, says, feels. The man too. Get to him any way possible, and I mean ANY WAY.”

“It is your wish…”

~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~