“Every time I hear this story, it makes me wonder what happened to the Saintess.”
The teacher, whose hair had become gray long ago, looked at the boy. He was sitting by the window and could simply enjoy the view, but instead, his gaze was fixed on a man. The boy's wheatish smooth and radiant skin without any blemishes contrasted with the teacher's dark one, marked with wrinkles and a few thin scars. His green kurta with leaf embroidery was tidy, and his black wavy hair was neatly styled. As always, despite his young age, the heir of the Cheda family treated his appearance with commendable attention. Brown eyes full of curiosity were the best reward for an old man.
“Indeed, young master. The story is constructed this way to encourage a listener to guess and wonder. Many have ruminated over the mysterious disappearance. Some believed that the Saintess cursed the nymphs and died weeping over her child. While others feared that her mind was clouded with such unbearable grief that she cursed the humans as well, for not protecting her daughter. The answer may vary and be interpreted as one wishes. It may be dark and suffocating during times of misfortune. Or it may carry a glimpse of hope for a blessing from the Saintess for all humankind during brighter days.”
The teacher left his comfortable chair and moved to the window. The clopping sounds from his wooden cane echoed through the room. A pile of books on the desk could have been a good sign of the young master's eagerness to study, if only it wasn't covered with a barely visible layer of dust. The old man frowned in disapproval.
“Nevertheless, the young master should concentrate on present times. I only retold you this story so you would appreciate your father's mission.”
The boy pouted.
“I know how important father's trip to the Navigation Tower is. I was just wondering why the rajah didn't go on this mission himself.”
Seeing through his student's worries, the old man smiled.
“One day, you will surely accompany the vizier on the journey to the Tower. And I can guarantee it will be one of the greatest memories to make.”
The previous sulking was instantly forgotten. Curiosity and excitement radiated from the boy's eyes.
“Have you seen the Tower, Batsa?”
“Indeed, I have. And it was a sight to behold,” the man closed his dark brown eyes, recalling the grand view he witnessed in his younger days. He was a venerable statesman during those two visits. He met with other delegates: ministers, generals and even royalty. But the brightest among them was Her Holiness Imara. The woman of incomparable virtue, wisdom and beauty, respected and admired throughout all lands. What a pity that his knees can no longer endure such a long journey. The time sure flew by.
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The old teacher opened his eyes. Lamenting over his current health could wait.
“But young master, if I remember correctly, today you are meeting with Lady Binita, aren’t you?”
“Oh!” the boy jumped from the chair. “The story was too good, I lost track of time. I need to go now, sorry, Batsa.”
“No need to apologize. Let me accompany you on the way to your fiancée.”
The teacher followed his student to the garden. They passed the carefully trimmed myrtle bushes, leaving behind the green part of well-kept grounds. The sweet fragrance of countless flowers filled the air before the pair entered the stone white gates. Behind them lay the Six Colors Garden, the pride of the Cheda house. Rows of saffron, yellow, red, blue, white and even green flowers were planted in a way to bloom year-round. When one flower variety withered, another one started to bloom to the guests' delight. That gave this place another name - Everbloom Garden.
The large fountain in the middle of the grounds was connected with a few small channels decorated with marble and connected with bridges. During festivals, the Cheda family generously opened the garden to the public, but now there were no crowds, only a few guests and family members.
The fountain's running water couldn't drown out the lively chattering. Surrounded by flowers, the lady of the house was already having tea with the guests. Thanks to the desserts and pleasant conversation, they didn’t pay attention to his late arrival. His mother’s thoughtfulness made the boy sigh in relief. She spotted him immediately.
“Ashwin, my dear. You have been diligent with your studies as always. Why not take a break and show Lady Binita the garden?”
The boy approached and greeted his fiancée and her mother. The girl, just a few years younger than him, shyly greeted him back. The expensive dress and embroidered shoes she wore looked a bit out of place for a simple garden walk, but Ashwin decided to pay no attention to such a trifle. ‘After all, women like to dress up on every occasion, do they not?’ Both mothers smiled at the sight of the boy’s gallant attempts to court the young lady. There was still much to discuss before the marriage, but it was a good start.