The sun peeked through my window, nudging me awake from my slumber. With a sleepy stretch, I reluctantly left the warmth of my bed and quickly tidied up the sheets, trying to smooth out the wrinkles as best as I could.
Heading into the bathroom, I splashed water on my face, wiping away the last remnants of sleep. After changing into fresh clothes, I joined my family in the kitchen, where they were already digging into breakfast.
"Looks like everyone beat me to the morning routine again," I joked, noting their early start.
"Morning, dear," Mom greeted, her tone a little strict, reminding me subtly to mind my manners.
I quickly returned the greeting to my dad and sisters, eager not to ruffle Mom's feathers further.
"Hey there, sunshine," Dad said, giving me a warm pat on the head.
Saori smiled gently, offering a peaceful start to the day. "Good morning, little sister," she said kindly.
Leave it to Anco to inject some mischief into the morning. "Morning, dimwit. Hope you had a night full of nightmares," she teased, her laughter filling the room.
I rolled my eyes at her comment, deciding not to engage in any banter that might upset Mom.
Turning my attention to the food, I couldn't help but compliment Mom's cooking. "This breakfast is delicious, Mom. Thank you," I said sincerely, hoping to shift the focus away from any tension.
Mom reminded us sternly about our plans for the day. "Alright, everyone, let's eat up quickly. We've got shopping to do," she said firmly, leaving no room for dawdling.
After finishing my humble breakfast of goat's milk with bread and last night's rabbit stew, I retreated to my room to retrieve my trusty pouch, knowing that our departure for the day's shopping excursion was imminent.
However, my plans were abruptly interrupted by the unmistakable sounds of a heated argument echoing from the living room. Curiosity piqued, I cautiously peeked out of my door to witness an intense exchange between Anco and our mother.
"Anco, why must you always be so selfish? You're coming with us for shopping today, end of discussion!" my mother declared, her frustration evident as she stomped her feet in agitation.
"Mom, I've got other things to do. I don't have time for your silly dress-up games," Anco retorted, a smug smirk playing on her lips.
Mom's response was swift and uncompromising. "You dare defy me, Anco Lynette? You're coming with us, or you'll be going without dinner for two days," she threatened, her tone leaving no room for negotiation.
Anco's protest was met with a resolute stance from Mom. "Try me. I'll remind you who runs this household, and it certainly isn't you," she asserted firmly.
Anco's attempt to enlist Dad's support was met with disappointment as he cited his responsibilities in the fields, leaving her to face Mom's wrath alone.
With Anco's scolding concluded, Mom summoned us sisters to the living room, her voice cutting through the tension like a clarion call. Responding to her summons, Saori and I emerged from our rooms, ready to heed her command.
"Come on, kids, let's get going," Mom urged, her tone a mixture of determination and impatience.
As we prepared to depart, Anco's dramatic display of feigned illness and tears failed to garner sympathy from anyone, earning only an eye-roll from me. Frankly, I was often left bewildered by her immature antics, wondering how someone older than me could behave so childishly.
With our little family unit in tow, we stepped out of the familiar confines of our home and ventured onto the bustling streets. The atmosphere seemed charged with an unusual energy, as if a secret whispered among the cobblestones had ignited a fervor among the townsfolk. Unlike the usual humdrum of daily life, today the streets were abuzz with activity, with people congregating in clusters and whispers fluttering like leaves in the wind.
"Momma, what's going on?" I couldn't help but ask, my curiosity piqued by the unusual scene unfolding around us.
"I heard something about a noble, a count specifically, coming to town today. But let's not linger; we've got shopping to do," Mom explained briskly, her tone hinting at a desire to avoid the commotion.
Glancing over at Saori, the font of all knowledge in our little family, I sidled up to her, seeking answers to my questions. "Sister, who exactly is a count? Does that mean they're more powerful than the feudal lord?"
Saori, ever patient and wise beyond her years, offered a simple explanation. "A count is a person of higher status than a feudal lord, who holds the title of baron. They wield greater wealth, power, and influence," she elucidated, her words tinged with a hint of reverence for the noble class.
"Wow, that's impressive! But what would someone so powerful be doing here?" I mused aloud, unable to fathom the reason for a nobleman's presence in our humble town.
Saori shrugged nonchalantly, her demeanor reflecting a pragmatic acceptance of life's mysteries. "Who knows? But it's none of our concern. Let's focus on our errands for now," she advised, her calm demeanor a soothing balm amidst the whirlwind of speculation.
Continuing with our mother leading the way, we approached an old-fashioned store, its weathered exterior hinting at the treasures within.
Entering the quaint establishment, I couldn't help but marvel at the vintage charm that enveloped us. The wooden floorboards creaked beneath our feet as we made our way deeper into the store, greeted by the sight of antique furnishings and racks of clothing.
With a determined stride, my mother approached the store clerk, her no-nonsense demeanor softened by a polite smile. "Good morning, miss. Could you please take the measurements of my children and me? We'll also need your assistance in selecting some appropriate attire," she requested, her tone courteous yet firm.
The clerk, a picture of neutrality, nodded in understanding. "Of course, ma'am. What type of clothing are you looking for?" she inquired, her gaze shifting between my mother and us siblings.
My mother, ever the efficient planner, wasted no time in outlining our wardrobe requirements. "This is my daughter Saori, a true angelic soul. I'd like six elegant dresses for her, along with undergarments, and four yard dresses. And for my daughter Giselle, something that complements her unique hair. Six dresses and undergarments for her as well," she explained, her maternal pride evident in her voice.
I couldn't resist a playful jab at my mother's authority. "Mom, I could have placed the order myself," I teased, earning a dangerous glare that said to shut up in return.
But our shopping excursion was not without its challenges. Anco, always the rebellious one, had decided to stage her protest by biting on a nearby board. My mother wasted no time in intervening, her voice firm as she addressed Anco's defiant behavior.
With Anco subdued, albeit with a sullen expression, Saori offered a gentle reprimand. "Anco, dear sister, it wouldn't hurt to behave and stop causing mischief," she advised, her tone laced with sisterly concern.
Anco replied saying "Ofcourse I should be more like you miss goody two-shoes" Anco's retort at saori, cut deeper than expected, her sharp words were a painful reminder of her propensity for cruelty. Unable to remain silent, I leaped to Saori's defense, my words tinged with frustration.
"Don't bully Saori, you old witch," I snapped, my tone defiant as I met Anco's glare head-on.
But my outburst was quickly silenced by our mother's reproachful glare, a silent warning to temper my words. With tensions simmering, our attention returned to the matter at hand as my mother resumed her conversation with the clerk.
As the clerk ushered us into the measuring room, Saori couldn't resist inquiring about our father's attire, prompting a reassurance from my mother that she had it under control. Inside the measuring room, the clerk's use of magic to take our measurements left me intrigued but hesitant to inquire further.
As the clerk departed to retrieve our garments, Saori and I exchanged knowing glances, while Anco's impatience was palpable. When the clerk returned with an array of outfits tailored to our specifications, we expressed our gratitude before making our way back to our awaiting mother.
Reunited once more, we watched as our mother embarked on her own shopping endeavor, leaving Anco to her own devices. True to form, Anco's abrupt departure, leaving her clothes discarded on the ground, left us shaking our heads in resignation.
As we contemplated the aftermath of Anco's actions, Saori's resigned sigh echoed my sentiments, while I couldn't help but marvel at the predictability of it all—another day, another Anco-induced dilemma.
After about ten minutes, my mother emerged from the store, laden with an assortment of dresses. As she engaged in a conversation with the store clerk about the total cost, I couldn't help but marvel at the transformation my mother's demeanor underwent from assertive shopper to astute negotiator.
"How much for everything, miss?" my mother inquired, her tone businesslike yet polite.
"Let's see,1 silver coin," the clerk replied, her voice tinged with a hint of calculation.
My mother nodded in acknowledgment before retrieving the necessary coins from her purse and handing them over. As she packed our newly acquired garments into a sizable bag, her gaze fell upon the discarded clothes strewn across the ground—a silent testament to Anco's impulsive departure.
"Where is Anco!?" my mother demanded, her tone laced with barely contained frustration.
With a sigh, Saori stepped forward, offering an explanation on behalf of our wayward sister. "Forgive us, Mother, but Anco proved to be quite... elusive. She fled as soon as you entered the measuring room," Saori confessed, her expression a mixture of regret and resignation.
Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.
My mother's response was terse, a harbinger of the retribution awaiting Anco upon her return. "That brat, she dared... just wait until tonight," she muttered, her words carrying the weight of impending consequence.
Aware of the impending storm, I exchanged a knowing glance with Saori, silently bracing ourselves for the fallout of Anco's latest escapade. With a resigned nod from my mother, we gathered Anco's abandoned clothes and followed her lead as she ushered us out of the store, determined to continue our shopping excursion.
Exiting the quaint establishment, we traversed the bustling streets, our next destination already fixed in my mother's determined gaze. A short walk brought us to a more modern-looking store, its polished exterior hinting at the treasures within.
Entering the well-appointed establishment, we were greeted by the tantalizing aroma of fresh fabric and the sight of meticulously arranged displays. My mother wasted no time in approaching the store clerk, a man this time, and presenting him with a garment as a reference for our father's attire.
"Five shirts and pants in the same size, please," my mother requested, her tone concise yet courteous.
The clerk nodded in understanding before disappearing into the depths of the store in search of the requested items. Saori and I waited patiently, the anticipation building as we contemplated the next leg of our shopping journey.
While my mother engaged in negotiations, my mind wandered to the market, As mother promised we would go there today. The market, its promise of exotic foods and tantalizing treats beckoning to me. Perhaps, if I played my cards right, I could persuade my mother to indulge in a culinary adventure.
Twenty minutes later, the clerk returned, bearing an array of clothing for our father. With the transaction completed, we exited the store, our next destination already beckoning from across the bustling street.
Crossing the road and navigating through a labyrinthine alleyway, we emerged into a bustling marketplace, the air alive with the aroma of myriad spices and sizzling delicacies. With each step, I felt a growing sense of excitement, eager to explore the vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavors that awaited us.
As we stepped into the bustling marketplace, the vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and aromas enveloped us. The air was thick with the scent of exotic spices, freshly baked bread, and sizzling meats, mingling with the lively chatter of vendors and customers alike.
My mother led the way with purpose, her eyes alight with determination as she navigated through the maze of stalls and stands. Saori and I followed closely behind, our senses overwhelmed by the sensory feast unfolding before us.
"Look at all the food, Giselle!" Saori exclaimed, her voice filled with wonder as she gazed upon the array of culinary delights spread out before us.
"I know, it's incredible," I replied, my mouth watering at the sight of steaming dumplings, skewered meats, and colorful fruits piled high in baskets.
As we meandered through the crowded marketplace, my mother wasted no time in haggling with vendors and selecting the freshest produce for our family. From ripe, juicy tomatoes to fragrant herbs and spices, our basket soon overflowed with a cornucopia of culinary delights.
"Can we get some sweets, Mama?" I piped up, my eyes drawn to a nearby stall adorned with an enticing array of pastries and confections.
"Of course, my dear. Pick out something you like," my mother replied, her smile warm and indulgent as she gestured towards the tantalizing treats on display.
With a grin of excitement, I hurried over to the stall, my eyes widening in delight as I surveyed the mouthwatering assortment of cakes, cookies, and candies. After much deliberation, I settled on a decadent slice of chocolate cake, my mouth already watering in anticipation.
As we continued to explore the vibrant marketplace, I couldn't help but marvel at the kaleidoscope of sights and sounds that surrounded us. From the cheerful cries of street performers to the tantalizing aromas wafting from nearby food stalls, every corner seemed to hold a new adventure waiting to be discovered.
And amidst it all, I couldn't shake the feeling of gratitude for my family's presence by my side. Despite our differences and occasional squabbles, there was an undeniable bond that united us—a bond forged through shared experiences, laughter, and love.
As hours passed it was around 4 pm after our mother met up with her friends and wouldn't stop talking soon enough my mother decided to stop talking and go home since it was time to cook dinner.
With a contented sigh, I followed my mother and sister as we made our way back home, our hearts full and our baskets brimming with the bounty of the marketplace.
After our return home, my mother distributed our newly acquired clothes, assigning each of us the responsibility of stowing them away in our respective rooms. Carrying my bundle of garments, I retreated to the sanctuary of my room, eager to organize my newfound treasures.
Emerging from my room after completing the task, I found Saori assisting our mother in unpacking the assorted provisions procured from the market. Sensing an opportunity to alleviate their burden, I interjected with an offer to take charge of dinner preparations.
"Mom, I can make dinner tonight for everyone. You and Saori must be tired," I proposed, hoping to ease their workload.
My mother regarded me with a mixture of surprise and gratitude before acquiescing with a smile. "Don't mess up," she teased, her words laden with a hint of playful skepticism. With that, she and Saori vacated the kitchen, leaving me to embark on my culinary endeavor.
Washing my hands in a basin of cool water, I surveyed the assortment of vegetables laid out before me. Selecting three potatoes, I meticulously peeled away their skins before washing them clean. Setting them aside, I turned my attention to the chicken my mother had purchased, swiftly portioning it into bite-sized pieces.
Gathering an array of spices and herbs from the pantry, I concocted a savory marinade, combining salt, tumeric, red pepper, onion, tomatoes, garlic, rosemary, ginger, thyme, and basil. As the aromatic blend permeated the air, I marveled at the transformation unfolding before me.
With the chicken left to marinate, I proceeded to prepare the rice, washing the grains meticulously before placing them in a pot with water and a pinch of salt. Venturing outside, I collected firewood and kindled a flame using makeshift tools fashioned from rocks, a skill passed down through generations.
As the rice simmered over the crackling flames, I remained vigilant, ensuring its even cooking. In the kitchen, Saori ventured in, her concern evident in her expression. Offering a reassuring nod, I assured her of my competence before she retreated to join our mother.
With the rice nearing completion, I transferred the pot indoors, its fragrant steam wafting through the kitchen. Turning my attention to the chicken, I heated a pot with coconut oil, readying it for the main course. As the tantalizing aroma of spices and herbs filled the air, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in my culinary efforts.
Leaving the chicken to simmer, I waited patiently, mindful of the importance of precision and timing in the culinary arts. As the minutes ticked by, I reveled in the opportunity to contribute to my family's well-being, grateful for the chance to repay their tireless efforts with a homemade meal crafted from love and dedication.
Approximately one hour had passed, and the savory aroma of the cooked chicken filled the air as I removed it from the makeshift outdoor fire pit, ready to serve. With the main dish prepared, I turned my attention to the potatoes, eager to have them ready by the time my father and perhaps Anco returned home.
Adding salt to the pot of water, I watched intently as the potatoes began to soften over the open flame. Aware that the potatoes required close attention, I sought out Saori to assist me in monitoring their progress.
"Saori, could you watch the potatoes boil? I'm going to bathe," I requested, knowing she had already completed her own ablutions, along with our mother.
Agreeing to my request, Saori remained in the kitchen as I made my way to the bathroom. The sight of a large bucket of water awaited me, and I wasted no time in immersing myself in its comforting warmth. Adding scented herbs, courtesy of my mother's recent purchase, I indulged in a leisurely bath, cleansing myself of the day's labors.
Emerging from the bath, refreshed and invigorated, I donned my nightgown and underwear before venturing back into the living room. To my dismay, my mother's concerned gaze fell upon my tangled hair.
"Giselle Lynette, what in Earth's name happened to your beautiful hair?" she exclaimed, fretting over its disarray.
Perplexed by her distress, I queried, "What do you mean, Mother?"
"Your hair is so tangled and messy. You can't sit around the dining table like that. Come here and let me plait it," she insisted, beckoning me closer.
Gratefully accepting her assistance, I settled onto a stool while my mother deftly tended to my unruly hair. In no time, my hair was transformed into neat plaits, a testament to my mother's skill and care.
Thanking her profusely, I made to leave the house, only to be greeted by the arrival of my father. Rushing towards him, I enveloped him in a warm embrace, eager to hear about his day in the fields.
"Glad you're back, Daddy. How was the fields?" I inquired, beaming up at him.
Returning my embrace, my father smiled affectionately. "It was another good day, darling. And I have more news today," he replied, his tone filled with warmth
Excited by his revelation, I released my father and skipped through the kitchen to go outisde, eager to inform Saori of his return. Upon learning that dinner was not yet ready, I ventured back into the house where I overheard my parents conversing.
Meanwhile, in the living room, my mother engaged my father in conversation. "Dear, I have someone to look after my fields while we're gone. It's a father and his two sons; they usually work with me," my father explained.
"A father and his two sons?" queried my mother, her interest piqued.
"Yes, they don't live too far from us. The father and his wife have two sons and four girls, so they work hard. Since I felt pity for them, I gave them a chance to work with me," my father elaborated.
"Well, aren't you kind, dear? If that father is truly good, then perhaps I'd like to meet him to dinner before we go, to see if we can truly trust him. I hope you'll invite his wife and other children, too," my mother suggested, her knitting momentarily forgotten.
My father, taken aback by the unexpected request, coughed nervously before replying, "As you wish, dear wife. As soon as I see him tomorrow, I'll invite him to dinner."
"Good, that is lovely. But you know I have to talk to you about our daughter, Anco," my mother reminded him, her tone becoming serious as she resumed her knitting.
Soon the conversation ended and I went to see if soari was done to see her carrying the pot. As Saori carried the pot into the kitchen, I hurried inside to inform our parents that dinner was ready. They washed their hands and joined us at the table, eager to savor the meal. Just as we settled, Anco finally arrived home, enticed by the aroma wafting from the kitchen.
"Hello, Momma. I see food's ready. I'll wash my hands and be back," Anco announced before disappearing into the bathroom.
Upon her return, my mother wasted no time in addressing Anco's behavior. Her voice was stern, laced with frustration and disappointment. "Anco Lynnette, I've had enough of your antics. From now on, you will follow all my orders without question. If you dare to defy me again, especially during our trip to Berlynne, there will be severe consequences. Do you understand?"
Anco, usually quick with retorts, remained silent, bowing her head in acknowledgment and remorse. I could sense the tension in the air, and even though the scolding wasn't directed at me, fear gripped my heart.
After the confrontation, Mother instructed us to eat, and I eagerly dug into the meal I had prepared. The flavors danced on my tongue, a testament to my newfound culinary skills. Despite Anco's earlier transgressions, she devoured her food with gusto, hunger overcoming any lingering defiance.
As we savored the delicious dinner, Father showered praise upon Mother for the meal, only to be corrected by her humble admission that it was actually my handiwork. I blushed at the unexpected compliment, feeling a swell of pride at my accomplishment.
Once dinner was over, Mother announced our plans for tomorrow. "Children, tomorrow your father will be inviting a family for dinner, and I hope they accept. We'll need everyone's help to prepare, as we'll also be packing for our trip to Berlynne."
The prospect of hosting guests and embarking on our journey filled me with excitement and anticipation. Despite the earlier tension, I couldn't help but feel hopeful for the adventures that lay ahead.
The prospect of another family joining us for dinner filled me with boundless joy. Imagining the lively conversations, shared laughter, and perhaps even newfound friendships, I couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement deep within me.
As I rose from the table, a sense of anticipation coursed through my veins. Quickly making my way to the bathroom to wash my hands, I couldn't shake the smile from my lips. Each step felt lighter, buoyed by the promise of tomorrow's adventures.
Emerging from the bathroom, I bid goodnight to my family, exchanging warm smiles and affectionate gestures. Their presence, always reassuring and comforting, fueled my anticipation for the day ahead.
Entering my room, I slipped beneath the covers, the soft embrace of my bed inviting me into its warmth. With a contented sigh, I allowed my thoughts to drift to tomorrow's plans.
Picturing myself bustling about, packing essentials for our journey to Berlynne and assisting in the preparations for our dinner guests, I felt a surge of energy. The mere thought of the bustling activity and shared camaraderie filled me with a sense of purpose and excitement.
As I drifted off to sleep, visions of tomorrow danced through my mind, painting a vivid tapestry of anticipation and delight.