The sound of rushed footsteps came all too soon as both mothers entered the room, witnessing Felicia in Leonards arms. Liarra stood frozen upon seeing her daughter unconscious in Leonard’s arms; eyes widened as her hands covered her mouth at the sight. Whilst Ailene frowned severely after confirming what Illiana explained after her desperate rush into the living room.
Seeing her son holding the weakened girl in his arms made her heart lament; never wanting him to experience such a similar scenario to her own back when his awakening occurred. She calmy walked up and crouched opposite her son, gaining his attention as she focussed her voice on him; ensuring it was comforting yet strong.
“Leonard. We’re going to need to move Felicia. Let me take her okay?”
He looked into his mothers eyes upon her request, watching as she moved her arms under his friend as he loosened his own. Only realising just now how desperately tight his grip was as he protectively encircled her through fear.
The adults took over form there. Seeing Ailene holding her daughter snapped Liarra out of her shock; refocusing her attention entirely on her daughters safety. Ailene taking control of the situation from there, deciding it best to have Felicia rest within one of the guests rooms. Stating they would handle this matter in similar fashion to Leonard’s in both urgency and secrecy as she handed out orders to the staff on how to proceed.
Not long after did Emilia arrive, putting everyone besides Liarra’s worries to rest. The children were told to leave and wait in the living room under the supervision of Jenson. As for the adults; Ailene, Liarra and Marie remained in the guest room watching on as Emilia diagnosed Felicia’s condition after awakening.
Placing one hand on top of her stomach, did she slowly trickle her mana into Felicia’s body so as to get a sense of her condition. Once done, she pulled it back whilst delicately cutting off her mana being applied.
Looking towards the mothers, the elven teacher gave a succinct summary of her findings. “So, despite her early awakening her condition is stable.” Looking at Liarra primarily, “No doubt her beastkin constitution is to thank for that.”
“Yet that only begs the question as to what should happen to her now… a beastkin awakening at this age is incredibly rare.” She then shared a look with Ailene, knowing the rest of this discussion wasn’t going to be as simple.
Liarra broke into the conversation, a tint of worry in her voice, “Are you sure she’s fine though? What if there was something you missed? Or -”
“Liarra. It’s okay. I understand your worry – only all too well. But you can trust Emilia on her prognosis, she’s the one who saved Leonard’s life…” Interjected Ailene, letting the elven teachers experience speak for itself.
“She knows?” Was all Emilia responded with.
Confirming in defeat, Ailene nodded back.
A small burst of laughter escaped from her lips as she spoke on,“One year, we did well keeping it a secret that long honestly. Though this turn of events can be somewhat beneficial for us perhaps.” She let her finishing statement settle before looking at Liarra, displaying a haughty look for the mother, “After all you’re both in the same boat now and little Felicia here is probably in a more dangerous predicament than Leonard, should her awakening be discovered.”
Liarra looked to Ailene in confusion, ignoring whatever superiority the elf was trying to front, “What does she mean?”
Ailene looking uncomfortable, could only respond in honesty to her question, knowing she herself was in a slightly similar position to Felicia. “What she means is because Felicia is an early awakener as well as a beastkin, that could give some nobles the idea that she is someone deemed as ‘mana rich’. I’m sure you’ve heard the stories about the persistence of certain individuals who hunt for such people…”
From worry to horror, the mother looked down at her daughter for fear of her future once more only for it to be in a form she’d never expected. Beastkin prided themselves on strength and ability amongst their people. It was ingrained into their society. Felicia’s awakening would be like a honeycomb for wild bears to hunt. She turned to Ailene, looking for answers. Yet, as she did an almost unbridled rage swelled from within. The thought of losing her daughter to whatever self serving narcissists forged new resolve about protecting her.
“Then we’re in this together.” Reaffirming Emilia’s words, “I’ve suffered too much back in Wodun because of my heritage. I’ll not let that experience repeat itself with her.” Her ending words but a firm whisper.
Ailene reached out for her new found friends hand, squeezing it in confidence, receiving an equally strong squeeze in return. Turning to Emilia, there was one major problem left to resolve which she hoped would go in her favour.
“She’s going to need a teacher, and although her circumstance aren’t exactly the same as Leonard’s, they are close enough to warrant that they be kept together to help maintain their secrecy.”
Emilia’s stance changed as she looked thoughtful; contemplating the question. Then, gone was the woman who’s self interest took precedence, now stood an individual who held authority with severity gripping her tone.“You realize this increases the risks should they be discovered, yes?”
Standing firm in return, Ailene continued, “Yes. But keeping their awakening a secret as we continue with their training would be much easier if they trained together. You said it yourself to me and Brenton back then, that we shouldn’t squander the opportunity Leonard has been presented. I think this goes equally for Felicia now that she too has awoken.”
Emilia didn’t respond, only looking to Liarra in question, “What about you? Are you fine with me taking on the roll as her teacher? You know who I am right?”
“I’ve heard stories; some applauding you for your knowledge and genius… Whilst other things aren’t so… savoury in their descriptions.”
Emilia’s haughtiness returned upon hearing that, almost amused by the rumours surrounding her, “I’ve no care for what those pissants call me. Only few can recognize my worth and those that do are rewarded in turn for it.” Looking at Ailene in turn. “So all that matters is you making the choice of me becoming her teacher or not, despite whatever rumours you may have heard.”
Liarra fell silent, considering her offer seriously. As she did, the realization came about that this wasn’t a decision she could truly make on her own, “If it was just me… I’d agree to it, but I need time to discuss this with Nicholas along with Felicia’s awakening and the… consequences of that. How long will you wait?”
Pretending to look thoughtful Emilia simply shrugged her shoulders, “I’m not going anywhere, Leonard is my student so I’m in this city for at least the next two years. It won’t take you that long I hope.” Finding humour in her ill suited joke.
Liarra gave a quick look of uncertainty to Ailene only for her to shake her head in response, answering whatever unspoken question she directed her way.
“No… I think that’ll be more than enough time.”
“Good. Though on a more serious note, the sooner the better.” Turning away from the mothers to look at the girl in bed once more, “Responding before she awakens would grant me more time in making plans on how to integrate her into Leonard’s regimen. She could wakeup within a week but with beastkin constitutions you can never be too sure, so don’t find it odd should she awaken sooner.”
Liarra looking at Felicia herself, took in a deep breathe before exhaling, letting the events that just transpired begin to place themselves in her mind. Turning to Ailene, “Do you think I could ask you to get a message across to Nicholas for me please?”
“Of course, I’ll have Marie pass it on, she’s familiar with the layout of the military base and where Brenton and Nicholas are stationed. So just inform her whenever you’re ready.”
A small bow accompanied the maid making her presence known, “I am at your service lady Liarra.”
Nodding in affirmation, “I’ll stay by her side for a few minutes, I need to think about how I’m going to explain all this.” Liarra took a chair besides the bed, watching over her daughter as she ruminated on how best to proceed on informing her husband about today’s events and their options going forward.
Understanding her friends need for time, Ailene was at least happy that his matter was proceeding along, though a bout of worry concerning Emilia arose. She never did things for free so to speak and the fact she went along willingly with inspecting Felicia and agreeing to being her teacher, meant the elf had some of her own thoughts at play.
Feeling helpless, she put the matter to the back of her mind for now, deciding to move on, “I’ll head out now. I need to check on the children downstairs and inform them Felicia is safe.”
Not waiting for a response, she headed out into the hallways, Emilia following behind her. Leaving both the feline mother and maid together in the room until they went on their own business.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Currently, three children were sat around their family’s living room in similar states of uncertainty. Illiana was seated on the couch with Ashton facing towards the fire place, a cushion in her arms as she squeezed it tight, hoping it’d alleviate some of her worries.
Ashton was sat on the opposite end, having recovered his book when told to leave with the others, only to begin reading once more upon sitting down. Yet, not a single page was turned since he started reading.
As for Leonard, he was sat on one of the chairs next to the windows giving view to their garden. Head lolled to the side whilst looking outside, showing little emotion if any at all. Yet within, a battle of attrition was on going as turmoil and worry roiled around in the pit of his stomach, as he futilely attempted everything he could to get a tight grip on his anxiety and not let such thoughts take control of him, lest they lead to panic.
He wasn’t fairing as well as he usually did when controlling his emotions compared to the past,
knowing that his friend was in jeopardy – something too unfamiliar to him. Leading to an all knew discovery of hidden worries and concerns as the unknowing reality that she could possibly be in danger continued to gnaw on his psyche. As he was about to give up on restraining himself and find out some more information – a saucer with an empty teacup was placed in front of him, with Jenson’s presence behind it.
“Allow me master Leonard.” Was all he spoke with his soothingly deep voice.
Gathering in his surroundings once snapped out of his lingering dazedness, the appearance of a trolley to the side holding a teapot as well as numerous plated treats were on display. He didn’t know how it got there or when Jenson had even entered the room, but desperation took hold – reaching out for whatever matters might help distract him.
“Upon, ‘hearing that racket’ as Wesley put it, he thought all of you could do with a warm beverage and a bit of herbal cleansing if you will.”
Going through smooth, well controlled motions, Wesley poured within Leonard’s cup a deeply rich coloured liquid as heat steamed upwards. With practised ease, nary a drop was spilt, the sound of flowing liquid gently settled as the beautiful, translucent drink rested calmly within it’s new cup of residency. Placing the pot of tea back onto his trolley, he delicately placed another smaller plate to the side with a few biscuits on top.
“I believe you prefer milk as well young master?” Consideration blanketed his near bass voice amplifying the care given via his actions.
“Yes. Please.” Croaked out a response, only realizing just how dry his throat had become while entrapped in his mind.
Watching on, the dark richness of his tea faded into a softer pale collage; attuning himself with the sight as the troubles trapped in his mind, faded out gently.
Not having gone unnoticed, Illiana soon joined in, “Me too Jenson, I’d like tea and biscuits. And did you bring some honey?”
Placing everything back onto the trolley, Jenson gave a small bow to Leonard, then went on to respond, “Of course lady Illiana, I also made sure to have jam brought if at all you felt an extra need for sweetness.”
She giggled happily following his announcement, eagerly sitting herself up as the makeshift plushy was placed off to the centre of the couch.
“And you too master Ashton. Straight black, but added lemon to go along with it.”
Whatever tenseness was holding the book in his hands vanished as he softly closed it, resting it on his lap whilst awaiting Jenson to make his way as the two siblings on the couch broke from their own troubles.
“Jenson, thank you.” Leonard couldn’t quite put the appreciation he felt into his voice, only hoping that at least a fraction made it through to him. For how Jenson broke the sullen atmosphere, it truly made Leonard appreciate the people within his family all the more.
He bowed, “My pleasure as always master Leonard.” And made his way towards his siblings. For Leonard, Jenson was someone whose presence was reassuring just by simply being there. Their stature though foreboding was relative to having a mindful bodyguard on hand with all the traits and knowledge of a butler. An ever faithful companion when in need.
“Though, might I suggest you pass on your appreciation to Wesley as well, his attentive initiative is the reason for why these drinks are here after all.”
“Of course.”
Turning to his tea, upon picking up the cup in front of him, Leonard brought it gently to his own lips and a small sip entered his mouth. The warmth, the scent, the taste and the soothing of his throat. All these feelings culminated, allowing his shoulders to unwind, as he sank deeper into his chair, taking in the scenery outside garden. Looking at the flowers, the forgotten plan to take Felicia to see the ones she missed last time arose in his mind. His impromptu suggestion of meeting his family members taking over and later leading to her awakening.
Before he could contemplate further on the memory however, his mother walked in accompanied by Emilia.
This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it
“I see you’re all comfy. Jenson, might I request a cup as well please once you’ve tended to the children. Thank you.”
The butler upon hearing her request bowed in her direction and carried on with serving the children.
Iliiana spoke up first, turning around on the couch, “Is everything okay mother? Is Felicia safe? Can we help in any way?”
Hearing her daughter’s thoughtfulness; the memories of Leonard’s awakening returned and her daughters proactive assistance brought a small smile to her face. “Everything is fine honey, Felicia is in no danger and she is simply exhausted. As of this moment, she will be a guest in our house until her full recovery. So I may just take you up on that offer. But for now, I need to make the circumstances clear regarding Felicia’s awakening.”
She stopped to take in the sight of all her children, ensuring she had their attention for what she was about to say. However, Ashton chose to speak up first on the matter.
“You want us to keep Felicia’s awakening a secret, just like you did with Leonard’s.” Was all he said, stating it as fact.
Taken aback by her eldests words, the rising pride for her sons analysis and understanding was a welcome reaction, “Indeed, it’s just as Ashton said.” Looking to Illiana and Leonard, “The risks are the same with Felicia just as they are with Leonard. So I’m setting the rule that you keep it all a secret until Felicia’s family are decided upon when they want to reveal her awakening.”
Raising a hand up in the air, Illiana agreed, “My lips are sealed!”
“Of course mother.” Leonard responded, nodding in turn.
“Great.” Her approval was met with smiles and Ailene’s tone changed from instructive to now entirely motherly, “Finally, I want to say to all three of you just how proud I am of the way you all reacted.” Her motherly warmth smothering her children within the room.
“Ashton, as the oldest, I’m especially proud of how you took control of the situation and didn’t let anyone panic. You kept your brother focussed and you also gave direct instruction to Illiana to inform us. Giving us valuable time to react, you acted perfectly.” Having walked up to him as she spoke, she placed a hand firmly on his shoulder whilst he remained seated.
In response Ashton didn’t speak, only nodding at her approval. Yet the moment he went to take a sip from his tea, did the smile form on the cups rim.
Turning to her daughter she moved closer while talking, “Illi, the same goes for you. You followed Ashton’s orders immediately, running to us as fast as you could. In addition, you were succinct and clear in your explanation letting us understand the situation and send word to bring Emilia here to help.” She patted her daughters head watching as her daughters face blossomed into a smile.
Finally, she turned to her youngest, the memory of seeing him holding the girl in his arms wrenching her heart. Again she walked up to his side near the windows, “Leonard… you were so brave. Even though the shock no doubt shook you, you didn’t let it control your actions. You listened to your brothers words and you kept Felicia safe, I truly am proud of you.” She soothingly ran her hands through his hair, whilst her voice was gentle as she praised him.
He looked into his mothers eyes, only to look down again, saddened by the reality through his memory, “But I didn’t do anything…”
Crouching down, so she was now eye level with her son in his chair she embraced him in her arms and spoke softly, “You were the first out of everybody to react to Felicia’s awakening, that girl wouldn’t have ended up in your arms otherwise. Not only that, to make sure you caught her, you even used your mana to do so.”
Realizing he did, the words left his mouth before he could stop himself, “I’m sor-”
“No.” Interrupted Ailene, “You have nothing to apologize for, even though you knew the rules, you still chose to act if it meant to save your friend. I will never punish you for something like that. The fact that you chose to save her, even though it went against keeping your awakening a secret, probably is what makes me proudest of all about your actions.”
He couldn’t respond. He missed this. Too much. This feeling of being blanketed by the affection and care of the people who cherished you most. He could only return his mothers hug by bringing his own arms up around her and stifle the shuddering in his voice best he could as he whispered the words tearfully, “Thank you.”
They held their hug a while before Ailene pulled herself back, away from her son. She then turned to Emilia, “Will you be joining us for dinner this evening? You’re more than welcome to if you wish.”
Smiling, she shook her head, “No, I think today’s been more than enough excitement for me, especially on my day off. So I’ll just return to my home for today.” She answered, entertaining her own sense of humour once more.
Before Ailene could respond, Illiana jumped in upon her discovery, “You have a house?! Why didn’t you tell me about it?” The sight of left over crumbs near her mouth after she devoured her recent most biscuit made her feelings of wrongness fall short to the severity of her proclamation.
Chuckling in response, “I do but it’s nothing as grand as your home, mine does just fine for little ol me. Not to mention I make a terrible host.”
Emilia turned back to Ailene, “There is however one more topic of importance which we must discuss before I leave. Ideally in private.”
Ailene felt uncertain but wasn’t going to deny the woman her time, “Of course, we can take this discussion to my office upstairs.”
As if to confirm her uncertainties, Emilia went on to say, “Leonard will be included in this discussion too.” Her statement denying any possibilities of objecting.
Narrowing her eyes towards Emilia, Ailene could only go on to question, “Can you tell me why?”
“It involves him just as much as it will involve yourself. Well, I honestly only want this discussion with Leonard, however, the topic I feel will require your input too once I’ve made things clear.”
Suspicion emanated from Ailene’s stance. On the other hand, Leonard not fully understanding the situation, figured it best to go along with his teachers wishes for now, hopefully allowing this discussion to shed some light on things.
“It’s fine mother, I’m sure we’ll understand once we hear her out.”
“Very well then.” Seceding to Leonard’s agreement, Ailene took the lead in guiding both teacher and student to her office, “Jenson, I do apologize, if I could have that tea upon my return, it’d be deeply appreciated.”
“Of course my lady.”
As she continued to walk ahead the whisper under her breath spoke for itself, “I feel like I’m going to need it.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As the trio entered Ailene’s office, Leonard took in the sight of a very rustic and organized room; a deep rich mahogany desk and chair at the back with it’s own small seating area with equally styled furniture to the right. On the left were wooden shelves stacked with numerous folders; all dated and named accordingly.
Closing the door once everyone had entered and seated themselves, Ailene decided to broach the matter first, “So what is this topic you would like to discuss with us?”
Unperturbed by Ailene’s initiative, Emilia decided to take her time, “First, before we begin that discussion. There is something I would like to confirm with Leonard which needs clarifying.”
Surprised that he was being drawn in to the conversation so abruptly, Leonard felt like this was not so much a discussion but more an interrogation. “What do you want to know?”
That same authoritative individual which appeared upon their discussion with Liarra returned, eyes trained on Leonard’s as she spoke clearly, “I need to know, at any point did you channel your mana into Felicia during your time together?”
Frowning in response, Leonard answered simply, “No.”
Not reacting to his answer, he decided to continue, “You taught me on the day you made me aware of my mana that by no means am I to infuse my mana into another person. It is a practised and delicate art form which can mess with a persons mana flow if done incorrectly. But even more so, when done to someone unawakened, it can lead to severe exhaustion and high fevers. Replicating similar effects to an infection.”
“Correct.” A small tint of pride followed her response, “I’m happy to know you’ve been listening. Then let me specify, in no way did you exert your mana whatsoever whenever the two of you were in physical contact.”
Leonards frown receded into one of discomfort and uncertainty, “If you’re still referencing infusing my mana into her then the answer remains ‘no’, but…” He let his words linger a little as he gathered on how to explain things. Only it was his mother who intervened at this point, finishing what he was trying to say.
“But. Leonard has strengthened himself with his mana before whenever he and Felicia had been holding hands.” She showed her son a sympathetic smile. “Liarra and I were discussing this when she realized that despite her daughters excitement, Leonard was holding her hand without any discomfort. Going on to explain that whenever her excitement got the better of her, she’d forget about her natural strength at times. Meaning she no doubt applied her strength whenever her hand was gripping Leonards.”
As if to confirm Ailene’s explanation, Emilia looked to Leonard for confirmation.
“Yes, it happened numerous times, first being last week when we became friends.” He couldn’t stop the smile showing on his face upon mentioning the memory.
In response, Emilia chuckled to herself upon hearing the story, “Your first encounter and already you’re holding hands with the girl. Be careful Ailene, I’m sure he’s going to be trouble when he grows older.” Her teasing was nothing new to Leonard, normally he’d try and retort back at her jokes but given his mother was present, he decided to withhold himself from doing so.
Not missing the sign of reluctance from her student, she couldn't help but break into a small expression of laughter witnessing his inner turmoil, “I should have your mother more involved in our training sessions if I’m going to have this much fun with you.” The joy in her voice not voicing any concern for the fact Ailene was actually present.
“Emilia, please can we keep this discussion on point, I’m aware of how much the two you enjoy ribbing one another but you did request this meeting of us for some significant purpose.”
Clearing her throat she corrected herself, “You’re right, I guess depending on how this goes, I might just see more of that struggling of his.” A charming smile was directed towards Leonard which in response sent shivers down his spine in knowing there was likely trouble ahead.
“I’m just going to be up front about this.” She looked between the mother and son. “I want to take Leonard on as my squire.”
This was a term unfamiliar to him, at least in this world it was. Whether it held similar attributes to that of his previous life made him want to immediately deny the offer if pampering this woman was his entire futures purpose. Looking towards his mother for some idea on this, the shock she openly displayed gave the impression the title likely held a somewhat more significant meaning than he imagined.
Figuring he’d give his mother some time to gather herself, Leonard spoke up first, “What would becoming your squire mean. I’ve never heard such a title before.”
“It simply means that you recognize me as your teacher, in addition, given my reputation…” Her voice somewhat alluding to an already informed Leonard regarding her history somewhat, “You will carry my name wherever you go.”
“That sounds annoying.” He retorted before he could hold himself back, yet she still smiled in his direction, making him uncomfortable that he may have misunderstood something.
Clearing her throat, at this point Ailene decided to help clarify things for her son, “Leonard, there’s more to it than that.” She shot a somewhat accusing look in the elf’s direction for being so vague in her description. “Becoming a squire means you’re guaranteed a path to becoming a knight. The offer is only given to children who show promise in their abilities, as the one who offered them the opportunity takes on the responsibility they meet the highest of all criteria. Putting their reputation on the line for their squire because of their belief in them. They’re essentially children who have the potential to reach the strengths of soldiers within the royal guard, even perhaps those who within the twelve generals themselves.”
Processing all of this, Leonard understood from his father’s stories about how strong those within the royal armies were, often considered to be the most devoted to the royal family and strongest within the entire kingdom. In addition those who joined one of the royal armies received certain benefits often pertaining to their families. As for the generals, such a thought was far beyond him at this point. He couldn’t even attempt at comprehending what that might entail in this world.
Still feeling uncertain, he spoke up, “I feel like there’s more to it than you’re letting on mother…” His question earning a growing smile from Emilia upon his rising interest.
She nodded, a slight complicated expression on her face, “You’re also guaranteed entry into the royal academy with essentially the same privileges as a scholarship; should you succeed in passing the testing requirements. It needs to be stated, only children whose family is of high rank nobility to that of a marquess or above have the right to receive such treatment without scholarships.”
Leonard frowned upon hearing that, “I thought the royal academy didn’t discriminate between commoner or nobles?”
With that, Emilia broke into laughter at her students innocence, earning another scornful look from Ailene. “Leonard, the fact commoners can get into the royal academy at all is significant in itself. Sadly some of the nobility within the kingdom don’t agree on the matter but they can’t ignore the need for talented individuals being required throughout the kingdoms infrastructure. So this is somewhat in between to alleviate the troubles of both classes of citizenry. It’s worked for the past two centuries and many talented people have risen through the kingdoms ranks because of it… Your father being one of them.”
He then turned to Emilia, “Is the royal academy really something worth aiming for? I know Ashton is going and Illiana has set her sights on it too but me, I’m not so sure what I want to do.”
“Even though you’re training so hard?” Emilia responded.
“That’s because I want to fulfil my parents’ expectations of me and at the same time I also want to understand how far I can go in my training. On top of that, learning more about the world garners my interest much more.”
Emilia’s smile receded, taking a more serious tone with the boy, “That’s all well and good, but I’ve told you multiple times that that kind of naivety will only come back to hurt you in the future.”
Equalling her measure, Leonard replied, “I know but someone once told me that it’s not just about the end goal, it’s about the journey getting there. So, don’t hate me for deciding to smell the flowers on the side of life’s path or I just simply choose to take in the scenery once in a while.” his smile blooming as the memory from that time he spent that day in the study room with Marie that day emerged.
“Ah I know that smile. I wonder what kind of master adoring maid put those words into you head.” Her comment earning a glare from Leonard as she spoke.
Chuckling in response, “I also know that glare too, looks like I’m right. But I digress. We’re getting off topic and I really do want an answer but I feel I need to make something clear about the matter as well.” She cleared her throat and whatever amusement was on her face at this point, focusing solely on the child in front.
“It’s been suggested for Felicia to become my student after her awakening, tying the two of you together in your education. It hasn’t been confirmed but I’m certain her parents will agree to it. Don’t misunderstand, her training won’t go ignored, however, there has been no form of compensation agreed upon for this.” Her final words heavily alluding to something.
Emilia turned to Ailene, “It was your idea after all for the girl to go under my tutelage, if anyone else proposed the idea I’d have refused. So I need at least some form of recompense if that’s to be the case.”
Ailene glared in Emilia’s direction as she responded, “So you basically want my son to become your squire in exchange for Felicia becoming your student?”
“In short, yes. I know better than anyone just how much potential there is lying within Leonard. And I know better than anyone just how to draw it out.” She then gazed back into Leonards eyes, almost searching for something, “Despite how we tend to get along at times, I’ll mention no whisper of a lie in saying how much I’ve enjoyed the time spent teaching you. It’s been only one year and I find myself fascinated if not intrigued at how much you’ve grown within that time.” She waited a moment before commenting, “And I don’t like it when anyone or anything disrupts the things I like.” Earning him a wink.
Leonard just rolled his eyes. Yet inside, her words left a deeper impression on him than he let on. Pleasant nostalgia formed within as memories throughout the past year resurfaced, as time passed and their familiarity with one another grew, so too did their trust.
Gathering his thoughts, he knew this was more than likely the best path going forward, not just for Felicia, but also for himself.
“Fine. I agree.”
“Leonard… maybe give it some more thought?”
“It’s okay mother.” He said, shaking his head. “I understand your concern and distaste in her methods. I also don’t like them. But there’s no denying that becoming her squire is possibly the best path for me to take.” He looked conflicted as he thought about his next choice of words, “And if we’re speaking truthfully… I will also admit… I too have enjoyed my time having her as my teacher.” He couldn’t help but mumble near the end of his sentence. However, the playful smile on Emilia’s face made it clear she heard every word of it, forcing him to look away; sparing himself from the embarrassment of having said it.
Chuckling upon his refusal to make eye contract, Emilia took the chance to close off the discussion, “Then it’s agreed. From this point on, I; Emilia Sylphwood hereby declare you; Leonard Haydsworth as my squire as witnessed by one Ailene Haydsworth.”
Somewhat disappointed Leonard couldn’t help but blurt, “Is that all? I thought there would be more to it than that?”
Standing up from her seat she looked down at her newly appointed squire, amusement still on her face, “There is, but honestly I couldn’t care less about that stiff ceremonial nonsense. We both agreed upon and acknowledged one another as squire and master.”
“Wait!” Leonard jumped out from his own seat, looking confused, “Nobody mentioned anything about you becoming my master.”
“Well of course I am. Who else would a squire serve under?”
“Isn’t a squire assigned to a knight?”
“A knight? Whilst it’s true knights are accomplished individuals, the benefits of a squire far outreach that which a simple knight can fulfil. Remember…” She leaned in closer to Leonard at this point making sure she made her point clear, hey body bouncing in turn. “My name goes where you go, no mere knight has that privilege. I am a teacher by trade, but my title is that of a master.”
He still didn’t fully understand. The title of master was something entirely new to him; having never covered it within any of their lessons. Yet, the shock of her declaration in that master was her title and not a form reference similar to a master and their servant eased his uneasiness somewhat. He looked to his mother, feeling a little betrayed this had never been brought up.
Looking back at her sons face, Ailene couldn’t stop the small smile from rising on her lips. “Emilia isn’t one to care about nobility and titles, you know this already Leonard. Even though she’s stating your positions as seen from the outside, you’re still no different from a student and a teacher.” She looked at Emilia towards the end, silently telling her to further comment.
“Of course, I did say you were to refer to me as such when we first started our lessons after all.” She then turned away, directing herself towards the exit before slightly looking back, commenting on one last matter, “You may not understand now, but I’m sure you will when you’re older. That the weight of a masters name means far more than simply speaking it out loud. It comes with a level of responsibility which as your master, I entrust to you knowing it won’t be abused.” She opened the door letting her final words linger on the ears of both her recipients, “You are the first squire whom I have ever taken under my wing after all… Be honoured.” And like that, she left the room, her final words spoken with a strong tenderness, only committing further the privilege Leonard had been granted.
Turning around to his mother, the continuous chain of surprises was getting to him as he could only whisper to her in wonderment, “Is that true? I’m her first squire?”
“Yes, which is why I was so shocked when she made the proposal.” She took in a deep breath and exhaled loudly, allowing her discomfort to fade. “I think I share in Emilia’s earlier sentiments though. I think I’ve had enough excitement for one day.” Rising from her chair, she stretched her arms out loosening the stiffness built up over the course of the discussion.
Being of the same mind, the realisation of him now becoming Emilia’s squire was beginning to settle it’s place in his mind. Interestingly, as he walked forwards towards the exit, the motivations within him were reinvigorated. Her revelation sparking a near energetic impulse, awakening butterflies within his stomach as new opportunities had opened up for him.
Unable to hide the slight shaking in his limbs, Ailene took notice and couldn’t help but part way share in some of the concerns which Marie had brought up in the past with regards to Leonard; the pressure possibly overwhelming him.
“Leonard. The day is still young and we have guests. Lets ensure they don’t see us as inhospitable hosts now shall we?”
Interrupted by his mother, his thoughts turned from becoming a squire to now Felicia and her mother who would no doubt be staying for the remainder of the week at least. That rising excitement and eagerness within him eased as excitement was replaced by responsibility; knowing that there were things which could be done now that took precedence.
“Do you think it’s okay to see how she’s doing?” He asked, walking out the door ahead of his mother.
“Why don’t we knock and ask if it’s okay. Liarra may have relaxed a little now that some time has passed.”
Nodding at her suggestion Leonard directed himself towards the hallway where Felicia’s room was located, hoping to at least be there in presence whilst she was resting.