As I lay in bed, enveloped in the cozy embrace of sleep, the tranquility of my dreams was suddenly shattered by the jarring clatter of cups and pots crashing to the floor. My mother's voice, sharp and agitated, pierced through the early morning silence, mingling with the cacophony of kitchenware hitting the ground.
The abrupt commotion jolted me awake, tearing me from the blissful reverie of sweet roasted potatoes dancing in my mind. Rubbing the sleep from my eyes, I groggily stretched my arms, reluctantly acknowledging the start of another day with a resigned sigh.
With a groan, I dragged myself out of bed, shuffling towards the window to greet the morning sun. But as I parted the curtains, the blinding intensity of sunlight assaulted my senses, eliciting a sharp cry of pain from my lips.
"Ah! It hurts, no more!" I yelped, my voice echoing through the house, punctuating the chaos that had already ensued.
In response to my outcry, the clamor from before seemed to intensify, prompting my mother to storm down the hallway and burst through my bedroom door with a mixture of concern and exasperation etched across her features.
"Giselle, what's wrong? Why are you screaming?" she demanded, her voice laced with equal parts worry and annoyance.
My gaze met hers, and I winced, still reeling from the assault of sunlight. "Good morning, Momma. Sorry for the racket. The sunlight just took me by surprise," I explained, mindful of not aggravating her further.
With a tired shake of her head, my mother sighed in resignation. "Get up, Giselle, and tidy your bed. Then wash up and join us for breakfast," she instructed, her weariness evident in both her tone and demeanor.
I nodded obediently as she retreated from my room, the click of the door locking behind her signaling the end of our brief interaction. With a sense of obligation, I set about straightening my disheveled bed, taking care to smooth out the creases with practiced efficiency.
Once the task was completed, I made my way to the bathroom, where a bucket of water awaited me. Splashing my face with the cool liquid, I felt the remnants of sleep wash away, replaced by a renewed sense of wakefulness.
After freshening up and tidying myself, I stole a glance in the mirror, the reflection revealing a semblance of beauty that I couldn't help but admire, even in the early hours of the morning.
Giselle Lynette, that was me. With my long, rare white hair, piercing blue eyes, and soft features, I couldn't help but marvel at my own reflection. At the tender age of twelve, I possessed an ethereal beauty that seemed to defy the boundaries of youth. Some might label me as conceited, but in a world where self-assurance was paramount, I saw nothing wrong with acknowledging my own allure.
Exiting the bathroom, I made my way to the kitchen, where the familiar sight of the round dining table greeted me. Already seated were my father and two sisters, engrossed in their morning meal.
"Ah, so you all decided to start without me? Traitors," I quipped, flashing a smug grin in their direction.
My father, ever the voice of reason, glanced up from his plate with a gentle sigh. "It wouldn't hurt to greet your family first, Giselle," he chided, his expression tinged with a hint of disappointment.
"M-my apologies, Father. Good morning to you and my dear sisters," I stammered, scratching the back of my head in a feeble attempt to mask my oversight, accompanied by a forced smile.
But before I could fully recover from my slip, my elder sister Anco interjected with a cutting remark. "Don't grin like that, Giselle. You look like an ugly duckling," she sneered, her words laced with disdain.
Internally seething at her audacity, I bit back the retort that threatened to spill from my lips, knowing all too well the consequences of defying our mother's strict code of conduct. Instead, I offered a meek apology, swallowing my pride for the sake of peace.
Anco's polar opposite, my second sister Saori, then chimed in with her customary warmth. "Good morning, little sister. I trust you slept well?" she greeted, her serene demeanor a stark contrast to Anco's brashness.
Ah, Saori, the epitome of grace and kindness. With her flowing black hair and captivating azure eyes, she exuded an otherworldly charm that left me in awe. Unlike Anco's tempestuous nature, Saori possessed a tranquil demeanor that endeared her to everyone she encountered.
The differences between my sisters were palpable. Anco, at fourteen, bore a striking resemblance to our father, with her short brown hair and dark eyes. She was a tomboy through and through, often eschewing traditional feminine pursuits in favor of more rugged pastimes.
In contrast, Saori, at thirteen, radiated a beauty and elegance that seemed to transcend mortal boundaries. Her long, obsidian hair framed a face of angelic proportions, while her piercing blue gaze held a wisdom far beyond her years. Adored by all who knew her, Saori was the embodiment of perfection in our family's eyes.
Our father, Henry Lynette, a man of middling years with brown hair and dark eyes, commanded respect with his quiet strength and unwavering dedication to his family. Despite the challenges posed by our mother's temper, he remained a pillar of stability and love, earning him the title of exemplary father in my eyes.
In a society where the birth of a son was heralded as a sign of prestige and honor, my mother's inability to produce any males in the family had left her marginalized and scorned by those around her. Yet, despite the societal pressure to bear sons, my father stood by her side, his unwavering support a testament to his character and integrity.
With the morning rituals completed, my family dispersed, each embarking on their respective tasks for the day. As my father ventured out to tend to the fields and my mother set about her chores, I savored the simple pleasure of a hearty breakfast, prepared with love by my mother's hands.
Anco, true to her nature, had once again ventured off to indulge in her preferred pastimes, leaving Saori to tend to the household chores. With nothing pressing on my agenda, I made the impromptu decision to explore the bustling streets of our town.
Retreating to the confines of my room, I retrieved the worn brown pouch where I kept my modest savings, a collection of coins accumulated over time. Securing the pouch around my waist, I slipped on my trusty slippers, readying myself for the excursion ahead. Before departing, I bid farewell to Saori, who was diligently scrubbing away at the dishes.
"Big sister Saori, I'm heading into town. I'll be back soon," I announced, my tone tinged with a hint of excitement.
Concern flickered across Saori's features as she paused in her task, her voice laced with apprehension. "Be careful, younger sister. If you encounter anything or anyone strange, don't hesitate to return home," she urged, her protective instincts kicking into overdrive.
With a reassuring nod, I stepped out into the bustling streets, the rhythmic clack of my slippers against the cobblestones guiding my steps. The town square bustled with activity, as vendors hawked their wares and locals mingled in jovial conversation.
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My first stop was a quaint clothing boutique adorned with colorful displays and inviting storefront. However, upon perusing the exquisite garments within, I realized my money wouldn't stretch far enough to indulge in any purchases. Disheartened but undeterred, I continued my leisurely stroll through the bustling thoroughfare.
It wasn't long before I stumbled upon the familiar sight of Ms. Evans's stall, where the savory aroma of skewered meat wafted through the air. With a friendly greeting, I approached the vendor, engaging in polite small talk before inquiring about the price of her delectable offerings.
"Five coppers for one," she replied with a warm smile, her eyes twinkling with mirth.
I eagerly handed over the required coins, relishing in the savory delight as I resumed my exploration of the town. As the minutes ticked by, I found myself lost in the rhythmic pulse of life around me, the cares of the world momentarily forgotten.
Eventually, the allure of home beckoned, and I retraced my steps back to the familiar comfort of our family abode. Saori greeted me with a relieved smile as I entered, her sweeping momentarily forgotten in favor of welcoming me back.
Grateful for the warmth of familial love, I retreated to my room, sinking into the embrace of my bed with a contented sigh. Yet, despite the comforts of home, a sense of restlessness gnawed at my insides, a constant reminder of the void left by the absence of companionship.
As the hours slipped by in blissful oblivion, the hushed murmur of voices roused me from my slumber. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, I ventured into the living room, where my mother and Saori awaited with somber expressions.
Their grave demeanor sent a ripple of unease coursing through me as I settled into a seat, my curiosity piqued by their unusual solemnity.
"What's the matter, Mother?" I inquired, my voice tinged with concern as I sought to unravel the mystery that hung heavy in the air.
With a heavy sigh, my mother proceeded to deliver the news, her words laden with a weight that belied their significance. "We've received a letter from your Aunt Frisca. She's invited us to her home in Berlynne for a family gathering, and it seems every other relative will be in attendance."
"Aunt Frisca, Dad's rich sister?" I blurted out, seeking confirmation from Saori.
"Yeah, that's the one," Saori affirmed with a nod.
Mom chimed in, her voice tinged with concern, "The family meeting is next week, and we can't decline. It would reflect poorly on us and show disrespect."
Nodding in understanding, I processed the information. "So, we're going to Berlynne? But it's so far away," I remarked, a hint of apprehension creeping into my voice.
"That's right. We'll leave in two days to ensure we arrive on time. Berlynne is quite a distance from here," Mom confirmed, her tone resolute.
Saori's worry was palpable as she spoke up, "Are you sure about this, Mother?"
"I am. Don't worry. Tomorrow, the four of us will go shopping for new clothes. The family meeting lasts two weeks, so we need to look presentable," Mom reassured us, her determination unwavering.
Concern gnawed at me as I voiced my doubts, "But Momma, do we have enough money for that?"
Mom sighed, her expression softening, "Don't fret, my dears. I've been saving up, and your father recently acquired a carriage and two horses for travel. We'll manage just fine."
With that, Mom rose from her seat, her demeanor anxious, and disappeared into the kitchen. Saori chewed nervously on her fingernails, mirroring the tension that hung in the air. I couldn't help but wonder why everyone seemed so on edge. Was it because of Aunt Frisca's stature? Or perhaps there were underlying dynamics I wasn't privy to?
Sensing the need for a moment of solitude, I retreated to the bathroom, closing the door behind me. Excitement bubbled within me at the thought of the upcoming journey. If other relatives would be present, it meant there would likely be other children too. Maybe, just maybe, I could finally make some friends.
As anticipation bubbled within me, my excitement starkly contrasted with the palpable nervousness and anxiety that seemed to permeate the air, engulfing both my sister and mother. As nightfall descended, signaling the end of another day's toil, my father returned from the fields, and Anco, my elder sister, made her presence known.
"Hey, Mama, what's on the menu? I'm starving after a long day," Anco exclaimed, her hunger apparent in her tone.
Mom's response was swift and firm. "That's your own doing, Anco. Go wash your hands," she instructed, her voice tinged with exasperation.
Anco, ever defiant, rolled her eyes in response before begrudgingly obeying Mom's directive.
I couldn't help but cringe at Anco's insolence, knowing full well the repercussions that awaited her once Mom's patience wore thin.
"Good evening, my dear wife. Apologies for my tardiness; the fields demanded my attention a bit longer than expected. But fear not, for I bring good news," Dad announced as he greeted Mom with a kiss on the cheek.
Saori and I had already taken our seats at the dining table, eagerly awaiting the family gathering that was about to unfold. With both parents now present, it was time for the evening's revelations to be unveiled.
"Good news, you say, dear? Well, I have news of my own," Mom interjected, her voice tinged with a hint of intrigue.
As Dad made his way to the bathroom, Anco finally joined us at the table, her incessant chatter filling the room.
"Anco, pipe down. It's not our fault you skipped lunch," I reprimanded, unable to mask my annoyance.
Anco's response was predictably caustic. "You little brat, watch your mouth. No wonder you've got that weird disease," she retorted, her words dripping with disdain.
Enraged by her callousness, I shot back, my voice trembling with indignation. "What did you just say? How dare you mock me for something beyond my control!"
Anco's laughter rang out cruelly. "Who cares? Only old ladies get white hair," she taunted, reveling in her own spitefulness.
Infuriated beyond measure, I defiantly flaunted my hair, a symbol of my uniqueness. "Well, old ladies usually get gray hair. And besides, at least I don't have an ugly boyish haircut. My white hair complements my azure eyes perfectly," I retorted, a hint of defiance lacing my words.
Before the situation could escalate further, Mom's furious intervention brought us to an abrupt halt. With a resounding thud, she silenced our bickering, her wrath palpable in the air.
"You two, enough! Show some respect and wait for your father," Mom commanded, her tone laced with anger and frustration.
The weight of her words hung heavy in the air, quelling the tumultuous atmosphere as silence descended upon the room. Anco and I exchanged sheepish glances, chastened by Mom's reprimand, while Saori sat in stunned silence, equally taken aback by the sudden outburst.
Soon, Dad emerged from the bathroom, taking his place at the table and signaling the beginning of what promised to be a momentous family gathering.
"Finally, you're out. Let's start eating, and I have some big news," Mom announced, her tone brimming with anticipation.
"What news, dear?" Dad inquired, a hint of confusion creasing his brow.
"It's from your sister, Frisca. She sent a letter inviting us to a family gathering with all our relatives next week," Mom revealed, her words laden with a sense of obligation.
"My sister?" Dad's expression shifted, a shadow of fear clouding his features.
"We can't refuse, darling. It would be too disrespectful, especially to your parents," Mom reasoned, her resolve unwavering.
Reluctantly, Dad relented, nodding in acquiescence as Mom outlined the plan. "We'll be leaving for Berlynne in two days. Tomorrow, the kids and I will go shopping for new clothes, since the gathering will last two weeks. You just need to prepare the carriage and horses," she instructed, her voice decisive.
Before the gravity of the situation could fully sink in, Anco interjected with her trademark brashness. "What's this about Aunt Frisca? That old witch wants to torture us, doesn't she?" she scoffed, her tone laced with disdain.
Anco's disrespect drew a reproachful glance from Saori. "Anco, show some respect," she admonished, her disappointment evident.
Rolling her eyes, Anco persisted, earning a rebuke from Mom. "Listen to Saori and watch your words," Mom chided sternly.
Refusing to back down, I couldn't resist firing back at Anco, my own frustrations boiling over. "As if you're any better, Anco. You've been a torment to this family for years with your tomboy antics," I retorted, unable to contain my frustration.
Anco's response was swift and cutting. "You white-haired witch," she spat venomously.
Interrupting the escalating argument, Mom intervened firmly. "Both of you, enough. You're sisters; start acting like it," she reprimanded, her tone leaving no room for argument.
Meanwhile, Dad, seemingly lost in his own thoughts, was brought back to reality by Mom's question about the good news he had mentioned earlier. "Well, today a wealthy merchant visited and offered to buy our fruits and vegetables exclusively. He'll pay us more than the regular buyers, which means we'll have more money to spend," Dad revealed, a hint of pride coloring his words.
Mom's delight was palpable as she exclaimed with joy, her laughter echoing through the room. "That's incredible, Henry! I feel so much better after hearing this news," she exclaimed, her excitement infectious.
With newfound optimism permeating the atmosphere, we resumed our meal, the prospect of increased prosperity lending a sense of hope to our future endeavors. Tomorrow would mark the beginning of a new chapter as we embarked on a day of shopping and preparation for the momentous gathering awaiting us next week.