Validar and the rest of the Guardians of Light finished up their time in Corunglain in post 66. In post 67 they were in Fort Fletcher, regaining control of the fortress.
As dawn approached, the first light of day began to peek through the cracks in the shutters, casting a soft glow across the room. The air grew chilly, but their bodies remained entwined, generating their own warmth.
They awoke slowly, the realization of the day's events gently seeping into their consciousness. Validar pulled Gabriella closer, feeling the warmth of her body against his own. They shared a quiet breakfast of bread and cheese, delivered by a discreet servant who knew better than to disturb their solitude. The simple meal was a stark contrast to the grand feasts they had shared previously, but it felt more intimate, more meaningful.
As they ate, they talked in hushed tones about the upcoming mission to Fort Fletcher, Validar's eyes never leaving hers. He described the quick journey, the potential dangers, and the importance of this mission. Gabriella listened attentively, her gaze a mix of admiration and concern. She knew that Validar was a skilled warrior, but she couldn't help but worry about the perils that potentially awaited him.
When the last of the food was gone, Validar helped her to her feet. They walked to the window, watching the sun rise over the city. "I'll be back soon," he assured her, his voice firm but gentle. "We'll have many more mornings like this."
Gabriella nodded, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. She knew he had to go, but the thought of being apart was unbearable. "Be safe," she whispered, her voice trembling.
Validar kissed her forehead. "Always." He stepped away and began to dress, his movements quick and efficient. He knew the longer he lingered, the harder it would be to leave. He turned to her and asked, now that she had something of his, the ring from his mother, to connect with while they were apart, if she had some memento for him as well.
Gabriella searched her thoughts. She removed a dark blue ribbon from her hair. It had matched her attire from the Guardians' feast the night before. "Here," she said, her voice thick with emotion. "Take this. It's not much, but it's something to remember me by." She placed the ribbon in his hand. He lifted it to his nose taking in the scent of her perfume.
"Perfect." He took her in his arms and they embraced and kissed warmly. "I must gather my things for the mission. But I will see you before we leave." The morning of Validar's departure had arrived, bringing with it a mix of excitement and dread. They had spent a night filled with love and comfort, but now the reality of their separation loomed.
Sometime later, the Guardians were gathered and their supplies and mounts had been loaded up into the Stone House. Once everyone was inside, they would be teleported to Fort Fletcher and the recovery of the abandoned fort would begin.
Gabriella stood in the courtyard, her hand in Validar's. She could feel the strength in his grip and the warmth of his palm. His armor was gleaming in the early morning light, a stark contrast to the softness of her dress. The air was filled with the clink of metal and the muffled sounds of the horses' hooves on the cobblestones.
"Remember, I'll be with you in spirit," she said, her voice firm despite the tremble in her chest. She knew the risks of his mission but didn't want to add to his burden with her fears.
Validar looked into her eyes, his own filled with determination. "And I will carry you with me, in my heart," he replied, tying the blue ribbon around his sword's scabbard. It would be a constant memory until they were together again. "I will see you next in Pyris!" They embraced a long time and kissed. It was a kiss meant to last them throughout their time apart.
Finally, they broke apart and Validar turned to join his companions. The other Guardians had gathered their own mounts and were checking their supplies. The air was electric with anticipation and a hint of unease. The mission ahead was critical, and everyone knew it could be dangerous. Gabriella watched him go, the ribbon fluttering in the light breeze, a dark blue against the color of his armor. She felt a pang of sadness but also a surge of pride. He was a hero, and she was the woman he loved.
A Heart Divided (7)
A Heart Divided (7)
Conquer or Die!
Re: A Heart Divided (7)
A Reminder of Pyrisian visit
The snowfall had been harsh and early, unnaturally so. It appeared to be some time before the caravans could safely even manage to travel the immediate roads south from Corunglain to reach Pyris. In the meantime, Gabriella had much to prepare for her stay at the castle. Her thoughts turned to Baroness Lysandra, Validar's mother. She had met the Baroness only once before, but this would be different. This time, she would be staying under her roof as something more than a mere guest. She would be part of the family.
Gabriella recalled the first time she saw Lysandra, the way the Baroness had scrutinized her when she had brought Validar's plate armor from the armorer in Gateway. Validar had left unexpectedly. So unexpectedly that he did not have time to speak to her about his departure. She was left with a very apologetic and very sympathetic message, highlighted by more than a touch of romantic undertones. Validar wrote that he would return to her as soon as he could and that he would miss her every day they were apart.
She was heart-broken at the thought of them being apart. Their relationship had just started to blossom. It was clear that there was something more than simple flirting between them. After almost two months together, the romance had indeed blossomed. At least Gabriella knew that it had for her. She imagined that it likely had for Validar as well. And after a sleepless night of rolling a crazy idea around in her head, she decided to go forward with it. He had pursued her and gained her attention and interest. Now it was time for her to pursue him.
The merchant's daughter had made caravan runs without her uncle or father before. This would be the longest one so far. To Pyris and possibly beyond. She informed her uncle of her plan, wrangled up the staff and stocked a small caravan train with goods that had been stored in the warehouses or from some very quick negotiations. Before dinner they were off.
Validar was in the field adventuring when she arrived and Gabriella was not received at first at the castle. However when she informed the guards that she had Validar's commissioned armor, that changed things. Validar’s cousin Jallarzi was familiar with his call for the Seekers to come join him in western Cynalon. Only the ranger Arocken had been available to answer the call and he had travelled with Gabriella’s caravan and the armor. Jallarzi made arrangements for the armor and Arocken to be teleported to her estate where the Guardians were on their way. Apparently Baron Relon was still recovering from the mysterious ailment.
Her heart squeezed with anticipation as she thought about meeting Lysandra again, under such different circumstances. The last time she had seen the Baroness, she had been a mere merchant's daughter, delivering goods. A girl, nonetheless, who had a serious interest in Lysandra's son and quite obviously, he had no small interest in this girl as well. That was not quite a month ago. So much had happened in that month! Now she would be staying in the castle, as Validar's partner.
Gabriella recalled the tension of that first meeting. Lysandra was a woman of stately bearing. Well dressed and well mannered. Her dark blonde hair was done up and styled neatly but with a few loose delicate strands framing her face. She was an attractive woman and seemed to ooze charisma. Gabriella could also quickly see that the matron of Pyris held complete authority of the castle and its operations.
The Baroness had met her with a mix of curiosity and wariness. Lysandra had invited her to lunch, a gesture that could have been either welcoming or probing. The Baroness was quite pleasant and hospitable, but Gabriella had the suspicion that she was about to be interrogated. She was used to careful banter, having helped her father with negotiating for the caravans’ purchases many times. And her mother’s heritage gave her a natural knack for clever discussions, whether social or business oriented.
First however, there was a staff meeting about to be underway. Lysandra called for Validar's sister to show Gabriella around the castle until lunch was served.
Rachel was a few years younger than herself and she could see the resemblance to the Baroness. However, Rachel portrayed a much different persona. Her reddish brown hair was worn with bangs that nearly obscured her eyes and was pulled back into a pony tail. She was lightly freckled and fair skinned. Rachel dressed in a bright red blouse and tan trousers, and Gabriella could tell that the clothes were finely made and expensive, despite the slightly worn knees. Rachel was a bit of a tomboy and wished to follow in her older brother's footsteps. Gabriella too was not wearing a dress having been working with the caravan into the night. The wagons were parked in the care of the Pyrisian guard and staff, including her two bodyguards were put up in a nice inn, the Whispering Willow, that the family had used many times before.
Rachel and Gabriella hit it off quite well, despite their very different backgrounds and upbringings. Rachel wanted to be a knight, but she was still a girl and the two of them connected, discussing topics like courtly gossip and especially men. Having reached seventeen summers, Rachel was just starting to blossom into a woman and while she enjoyed sparring with men, she was starting to look at them in a different way as well. Finally after touring some parts of the castle and the courtyard grounds, a messenger called for them to join Lady Lysandra. Lunch was being served.
The snowfall had been harsh and early, unnaturally so. It appeared to be some time before the caravans could safely even manage to travel the immediate roads south from Corunglain to reach Pyris. In the meantime, Gabriella had much to prepare for her stay at the castle. Her thoughts turned to Baroness Lysandra, Validar's mother. She had met the Baroness only once before, but this would be different. This time, she would be staying under her roof as something more than a mere guest. She would be part of the family.
Gabriella recalled the first time she saw Lysandra, the way the Baroness had scrutinized her when she had brought Validar's plate armor from the armorer in Gateway. Validar had left unexpectedly. So unexpectedly that he did not have time to speak to her about his departure. She was left with a very apologetic and very sympathetic message, highlighted by more than a touch of romantic undertones. Validar wrote that he would return to her as soon as he could and that he would miss her every day they were apart.
She was heart-broken at the thought of them being apart. Their relationship had just started to blossom. It was clear that there was something more than simple flirting between them. After almost two months together, the romance had indeed blossomed. At least Gabriella knew that it had for her. She imagined that it likely had for Validar as well. And after a sleepless night of rolling a crazy idea around in her head, she decided to go forward with it. He had pursued her and gained her attention and interest. Now it was time for her to pursue him.
The merchant's daughter had made caravan runs without her uncle or father before. This would be the longest one so far. To Pyris and possibly beyond. She informed her uncle of her plan, wrangled up the staff and stocked a small caravan train with goods that had been stored in the warehouses or from some very quick negotiations. Before dinner they were off.
Validar was in the field adventuring when she arrived and Gabriella was not received at first at the castle. However when she informed the guards that she had Validar's commissioned armor, that changed things. Validar’s cousin Jallarzi was familiar with his call for the Seekers to come join him in western Cynalon. Only the ranger Arocken had been available to answer the call and he had travelled with Gabriella’s caravan and the armor. Jallarzi made arrangements for the armor and Arocken to be teleported to her estate where the Guardians were on their way. Apparently Baron Relon was still recovering from the mysterious ailment.
Her heart squeezed with anticipation as she thought about meeting Lysandra again, under such different circumstances. The last time she had seen the Baroness, she had been a mere merchant's daughter, delivering goods. A girl, nonetheless, who had a serious interest in Lysandra's son and quite obviously, he had no small interest in this girl as well. That was not quite a month ago. So much had happened in that month! Now she would be staying in the castle, as Validar's partner.
Gabriella recalled the tension of that first meeting. Lysandra was a woman of stately bearing. Well dressed and well mannered. Her dark blonde hair was done up and styled neatly but with a few loose delicate strands framing her face. She was an attractive woman and seemed to ooze charisma. Gabriella could also quickly see that the matron of Pyris held complete authority of the castle and its operations.
The Baroness had met her with a mix of curiosity and wariness. Lysandra had invited her to lunch, a gesture that could have been either welcoming or probing. The Baroness was quite pleasant and hospitable, but Gabriella had the suspicion that she was about to be interrogated. She was used to careful banter, having helped her father with negotiating for the caravans’ purchases many times. And her mother’s heritage gave her a natural knack for clever discussions, whether social or business oriented.
First however, there was a staff meeting about to be underway. Lysandra called for Validar's sister to show Gabriella around the castle until lunch was served.
Rachel was a few years younger than herself and she could see the resemblance to the Baroness. However, Rachel portrayed a much different persona. Her reddish brown hair was worn with bangs that nearly obscured her eyes and was pulled back into a pony tail. She was lightly freckled and fair skinned. Rachel dressed in a bright red blouse and tan trousers, and Gabriella could tell that the clothes were finely made and expensive, despite the slightly worn knees. Rachel was a bit of a tomboy and wished to follow in her older brother's footsteps. Gabriella too was not wearing a dress having been working with the caravan into the night. The wagons were parked in the care of the Pyrisian guard and staff, including her two bodyguards were put up in a nice inn, the Whispering Willow, that the family had used many times before.
Rachel and Gabriella hit it off quite well, despite their very different backgrounds and upbringings. Rachel wanted to be a knight, but she was still a girl and the two of them connected, discussing topics like courtly gossip and especially men. Having reached seventeen summers, Rachel was just starting to blossom into a woman and while she enjoyed sparring with men, she was starting to look at them in a different way as well. Finally after touring some parts of the castle and the courtyard grounds, a messenger called for them to join Lady Lysandra. Lunch was being served.
Re: A Heart Divided (7)
Over a meal of roast pheasant and steamed vegetables, Lysandra watched and listened as the conversation proceeded. Besides Lysandra, others at the table included the Baroness' senior lady-in-waiting and Mistress of the Rose, Lady Galina; Lady Vera Ardel, a guest and heir to the fallen barony of Stone Ridge; Lady Angelina Jordana, who had been assigned to assist Lady Ardel while in Castle Pyris and the daughter of an important Pyrisian knight, Sir Belfor; and Validar's sister, Rachel. Galina initiated the conversations and phrased her questions carefully. It was clear that Galina was assisting the Baroness in gathering intel on the girl who had captured her son's heart.
'How was the weather on your trip, Lady Allonica," Galina asked casually. "I trust it was well?" Lady Galina Nikolik was a little older than Baroness Lysandra and had attended her for many years. She had worked her way to the highest position and was a trusted advisor and confidant. Pleasant but serious, she made a fine mistress of the castle. Galina wore her light blonde hair short, very business-like, and while no beauty comparable to the Baroness, her charisma was still quite evident.
Gabriella took a sip of her wine, her eyes flickering to Rachel who sat across from her, the teen's face a mask of innocence. "The weather was fine except for some rain around Nemiston. It cleared most of the way after that. A pleasant autumn journey," Gabriella replied, her voice calm and even. Inside, she was bracing herself for what she knew would be a barrage of subtle questions.
"Your family's caravans are quite the talk of the realm," Lady Ardel chimed in, her tone a mix of curiosity and admiration. "The Allonica name is known far and wide for your quality goods and swiftness of delivery. How does your father manage such a vast operation?" Vera Ardel was the heir to the Barony of Stone Ridge. At the moment, that meant she was heir to nothing as the barony had fallen and was at best in disarray and at worst overrun by humanoid invaders. Gabriella looked toward Vera as she spoke. The woman was stunning, if appearing a bit naïve. Her long blond curly hair was well coifed and her blue eyes betrayed her political innocence. Still she was a sweet woman.
Gabriella felt the weight of her family's reputation, and her own place within it. "My father is a master of trade routes and diplomacy. He has cultivated relationships with lords and commoners alike, ensuring that our goods flow without hindrance. And my uncle, Lord Allonica, assists with the more... let's say, territorial matters. I have been learning at my father's side."
"I look forward to meeting with Geoffrey again," Galina stated. "We were not expecting another of his caravans so soon."
Gabriella's eyes met Rachel's briefly. Rachel offered her a small smile of encouragement before returning to her meal. "Actually, my father is not with this caravan," Gabriella revealed, watching the reactions around the table. Surprise flickered in Lady Galina's eyes, quickly hidden by her diplomatic mask. "This is a venture of my own making, a journey of both business and personal motives."
"Ah," said Lady Ardel, her gaze sharpening. "How enterprising of you, Lady Allonica. It is quite impressive for a young lady to take the reins of such an endeavor. I cannot imagine doing such a thing myself."
"Indeed," added Lady Galina, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Your father must trust you implicitly to allow you to lead a caravan through such troubled times."
Gabriella nodded, her posture straightening slightly. "He does. It is a responsibility I take quite seriously. My mother taught me the art of negotiation and brokering, which has proven quite valuable."
The mention of her mother brought a sudden stillness to the room, the air thickening with unspoken questions about her foreign heritage. Lysandra broke the silence, her gaze on Gabriella sharpened. "I understand that your mother is from Zakhara, isn't she?"
Gabriella nodded, her voice filled with pride. "Yes, she is. Her wisdom and strength are the greatest gifts she's bestowed upon me. Her knowledge of trade and diplomacy is quite impressive. I strive to live up to her reputation."
The Baroness studied her for a long moment before speaking again. "And your personal motives? What brings you to Pyris, Lady Allonica?"
Gabriella took a deep breath, knowing she had to tread carefully. "I came to see Validar," she said simply, her eyes never leaving Lysandra's. "He left Gateway with immediacy. While he promised to return, I found the opportunity to make this journey in the meantime. The ranger Arocken took up his request to join him on adventures here in the west. And the armor that Validar had made was now ready. It was a convenient coincidence that an extra caravan was planned to facilitate all of these tasks." Gabriella looked down for amount as she took another sip from her cup. The caravan was convenient because she formed it simply to come to Pyris to meet up again with Validar.
The Baroness's expression remained unreadable, but there was a hint of respect in her gaze. Angelina's eyes widened slightly, clearly surprised by this revelation. "I see," Lysandra said. "Your dedication to my son is... notable."
Gabriella blushed slightly as she responded. "It only matches his own towards myself, I surmise."
Lysandra nodded slowly, her gaze piercing. Galina stepped in to take over the questioning once more. "So how did you come to meet Lord Validar?"
"It was this summer at the feast in honor of the Seekers’ success in reclaiming and protecting Gateway. This was the adventuring band that Validar led at the time," Gabriella offered easily.
Lysandra's eyes narrowed slightly. "Ah, the Seekers. I have heard of their deeds. I received a message from Validar, sent before he returned here, explaining some of the adventures that were had. He speaks highly of you, and mentioned your intelligence and kindness."
Gabriella felt a warm blush creep up her neck. "Your son is too kind," she replied, trying to maintain a casual tone.
"Perhaps," said Lady Ardel with a knowing smile. "But from what I've heard, he's quite the judge of character." Gabriella gave Vera a questioning look across the table, but said nothing. She didn't want to risk any hint of jealousy infiltrating her words.
Lysandra's gaze softened, and she took a sip of her wine. "He is indeed. And it seems he has met his match in you." She paused, her eyes lingering on Gabriella, who returned the gaze with a warm proud smile.
Galina spoke up again, following the Baroness' lead. "Tell us more about your meeting. What was it that drew him to you?"
Gabriella felt the blush deepen as she recounted their first encounter, the way Validar had looked at her across the crowded feast hall, the thrill of their conversation, the challenging breaks in that conversation as he was requested this way and that, and the promise of adventure that had sparked between them. As she spoke, she felt the weight of Lysandra's scrutiny, but she remained composed, her voice steady and clear.
Lysandra listened intently, her gaze never wavering from Gabriella's face. When the story was finished, she nodded thoughtfully. "It seems my son has found a treasure," she said, her tone warm. "A treasure that complements his valor and honor."
Gabriella's eyes widened, surprised by the sudden change in the Baroness's demeanor. "I hope that I can live up to that," she murmured, feeling a sudden weight of expectation.
Lysandra leaned back in her chair, a small smile playing on her lips. "I have no doubt that you will, my dear," she said, her eyes gleaming. "After all, I would imagine that it takes a strong, capable woman to capture the heart of my son."
Lysandra’s gaze lingered on the young woman. "Tell me more of your own family? You mentioned that your mother is from Zakhara."
Gabriella nodded, surprised that the Baroness already knew so much about her. "Yes, she is. My mother was a merchant's daughter from a wealthy caravan family. She met my father in the markets of Crossroads and they fell in love. They've been together ever since, traveling across Cynalon for trade and also bringing in goods from Zakhara."
Lysandra leaned forward, her curiosity piqued. "Fascinating. Your mother's stories must be filled with tales from the exotic lands of the west. What is her name?"
"Her name is Samia," Gabriella said, smiling at the mention of her mother. "Her tales are indeed filled with sageness and adventure. She's the one who taught me the importance of courage and wisdom. I grew up in Zakhara most of my youth."
Baroness Lysandra nodded with understanding, her gaze thoughtful. Angelina spoke up, following in the observations. "It's clear that your mother has had a profound influence on you. And your father is from a well-respected merchant family in Crossroads." Lady Angelina Jordana was the daughter of the Pyrisian knight, Sir Belfor Jordana. Gabriella would later learn that Angelina was assigned to help assist Lady Ardel, but also to see if she had any untoward dispositions. Angelina wore her curly brown hair at shoulder length and her brown eyes were slightly hooded, giving her a mysterious and private appearance.
"You are correct, Lady Angelina," Gabriella confirmed, her voice filled with pride. "My father, Geoffrey Allonica, is known throughout the kingdom for his fair trade and sharp business sense. And my uncle is a minor lord with lands near Crossroads. Our family is close, and I was raised to respect the cultures of both Zakhara and Cynalon."
Baroness Lysandra's expression grew thoughtful. "Your background is quite unique, my dear. It may serve you well in the complexities of court life."
"I am afraid that I am not as experienced as many regarding courtly life, Lady Vanakus," Gabriella grudgingly admits. "I have learned much, but I lived in Zakhara until the last five years, when father finally allowed me to help with the caravans. Eventually my mother and uncle urged me to attend more balls, feasts and noble parties."
Baroness Lysandra's gaze sharpened. "Your uncle is Lord Kerim Allonica of Crossroads, yes?"
Gabriella nodded. "Indeed. My father's brother holds the title and lands. Our family on both sides has been in trade for generations, but my uncle has always had a taste for nobility."
The Baroness's gaze grew distant as she considered this. "Trade is a noble pursuit in its own right," she said. "It is the lifeblood of any kingdom."
The conversation turned to lighter topics, but Gabriella could feel the undercurrents of scrutiny and assessment. She knew she was being sized up, not just as Validar's potential partner, but as a member of the nobility. It was both thrilling and terrifying, but she held her own, her mother's lessons in poise and diplomacy serving her well.
Gabriella leaned back as her thoughts once more returned to the present. It was a successful, if stressful, encounter. But there would likely be more scrutiny on this upcoming trip than before. Then she was a girl who fancied the Baroness’ son and he her. Now she would be, what? They were not officially betrothed. It was too soon for that.
She looked at the ring on her left hand. It bore the seal of the Barony of Pyris. This ring had belonged to Lady Lysandra. And now it was hers, given to her by her love. This was the legitimacy to which she was able to cling. One day, she would be the Baroness of Pyris herself.
'How was the weather on your trip, Lady Allonica," Galina asked casually. "I trust it was well?" Lady Galina Nikolik was a little older than Baroness Lysandra and had attended her for many years. She had worked her way to the highest position and was a trusted advisor and confidant. Pleasant but serious, she made a fine mistress of the castle. Galina wore her light blonde hair short, very business-like, and while no beauty comparable to the Baroness, her charisma was still quite evident.
Gabriella took a sip of her wine, her eyes flickering to Rachel who sat across from her, the teen's face a mask of innocence. "The weather was fine except for some rain around Nemiston. It cleared most of the way after that. A pleasant autumn journey," Gabriella replied, her voice calm and even. Inside, she was bracing herself for what she knew would be a barrage of subtle questions.
"Your family's caravans are quite the talk of the realm," Lady Ardel chimed in, her tone a mix of curiosity and admiration. "The Allonica name is known far and wide for your quality goods and swiftness of delivery. How does your father manage such a vast operation?" Vera Ardel was the heir to the Barony of Stone Ridge. At the moment, that meant she was heir to nothing as the barony had fallen and was at best in disarray and at worst overrun by humanoid invaders. Gabriella looked toward Vera as she spoke. The woman was stunning, if appearing a bit naïve. Her long blond curly hair was well coifed and her blue eyes betrayed her political innocence. Still she was a sweet woman.
Gabriella felt the weight of her family's reputation, and her own place within it. "My father is a master of trade routes and diplomacy. He has cultivated relationships with lords and commoners alike, ensuring that our goods flow without hindrance. And my uncle, Lord Allonica, assists with the more... let's say, territorial matters. I have been learning at my father's side."
"I look forward to meeting with Geoffrey again," Galina stated. "We were not expecting another of his caravans so soon."
Gabriella's eyes met Rachel's briefly. Rachel offered her a small smile of encouragement before returning to her meal. "Actually, my father is not with this caravan," Gabriella revealed, watching the reactions around the table. Surprise flickered in Lady Galina's eyes, quickly hidden by her diplomatic mask. "This is a venture of my own making, a journey of both business and personal motives."
"Ah," said Lady Ardel, her gaze sharpening. "How enterprising of you, Lady Allonica. It is quite impressive for a young lady to take the reins of such an endeavor. I cannot imagine doing such a thing myself."
"Indeed," added Lady Galina, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Your father must trust you implicitly to allow you to lead a caravan through such troubled times."
Gabriella nodded, her posture straightening slightly. "He does. It is a responsibility I take quite seriously. My mother taught me the art of negotiation and brokering, which has proven quite valuable."
The mention of her mother brought a sudden stillness to the room, the air thickening with unspoken questions about her foreign heritage. Lysandra broke the silence, her gaze on Gabriella sharpened. "I understand that your mother is from Zakhara, isn't she?"
Gabriella nodded, her voice filled with pride. "Yes, she is. Her wisdom and strength are the greatest gifts she's bestowed upon me. Her knowledge of trade and diplomacy is quite impressive. I strive to live up to her reputation."
The Baroness studied her for a long moment before speaking again. "And your personal motives? What brings you to Pyris, Lady Allonica?"
Gabriella took a deep breath, knowing she had to tread carefully. "I came to see Validar," she said simply, her eyes never leaving Lysandra's. "He left Gateway with immediacy. While he promised to return, I found the opportunity to make this journey in the meantime. The ranger Arocken took up his request to join him on adventures here in the west. And the armor that Validar had made was now ready. It was a convenient coincidence that an extra caravan was planned to facilitate all of these tasks." Gabriella looked down for amount as she took another sip from her cup. The caravan was convenient because she formed it simply to come to Pyris to meet up again with Validar.
The Baroness's expression remained unreadable, but there was a hint of respect in her gaze. Angelina's eyes widened slightly, clearly surprised by this revelation. "I see," Lysandra said. "Your dedication to my son is... notable."
Gabriella blushed slightly as she responded. "It only matches his own towards myself, I surmise."
Lysandra nodded slowly, her gaze piercing. Galina stepped in to take over the questioning once more. "So how did you come to meet Lord Validar?"
"It was this summer at the feast in honor of the Seekers’ success in reclaiming and protecting Gateway. This was the adventuring band that Validar led at the time," Gabriella offered easily.
Lysandra's eyes narrowed slightly. "Ah, the Seekers. I have heard of their deeds. I received a message from Validar, sent before he returned here, explaining some of the adventures that were had. He speaks highly of you, and mentioned your intelligence and kindness."
Gabriella felt a warm blush creep up her neck. "Your son is too kind," she replied, trying to maintain a casual tone.
"Perhaps," said Lady Ardel with a knowing smile. "But from what I've heard, he's quite the judge of character." Gabriella gave Vera a questioning look across the table, but said nothing. She didn't want to risk any hint of jealousy infiltrating her words.
Lysandra's gaze softened, and she took a sip of her wine. "He is indeed. And it seems he has met his match in you." She paused, her eyes lingering on Gabriella, who returned the gaze with a warm proud smile.
Galina spoke up again, following the Baroness' lead. "Tell us more about your meeting. What was it that drew him to you?"
Gabriella felt the blush deepen as she recounted their first encounter, the way Validar had looked at her across the crowded feast hall, the thrill of their conversation, the challenging breaks in that conversation as he was requested this way and that, and the promise of adventure that had sparked between them. As she spoke, she felt the weight of Lysandra's scrutiny, but she remained composed, her voice steady and clear.
Lysandra listened intently, her gaze never wavering from Gabriella's face. When the story was finished, she nodded thoughtfully. "It seems my son has found a treasure," she said, her tone warm. "A treasure that complements his valor and honor."
Gabriella's eyes widened, surprised by the sudden change in the Baroness's demeanor. "I hope that I can live up to that," she murmured, feeling a sudden weight of expectation.
Lysandra leaned back in her chair, a small smile playing on her lips. "I have no doubt that you will, my dear," she said, her eyes gleaming. "After all, I would imagine that it takes a strong, capable woman to capture the heart of my son."
Lysandra’s gaze lingered on the young woman. "Tell me more of your own family? You mentioned that your mother is from Zakhara."
Gabriella nodded, surprised that the Baroness already knew so much about her. "Yes, she is. My mother was a merchant's daughter from a wealthy caravan family. She met my father in the markets of Crossroads and they fell in love. They've been together ever since, traveling across Cynalon for trade and also bringing in goods from Zakhara."
Lysandra leaned forward, her curiosity piqued. "Fascinating. Your mother's stories must be filled with tales from the exotic lands of the west. What is her name?"
"Her name is Samia," Gabriella said, smiling at the mention of her mother. "Her tales are indeed filled with sageness and adventure. She's the one who taught me the importance of courage and wisdom. I grew up in Zakhara most of my youth."
Baroness Lysandra nodded with understanding, her gaze thoughtful. Angelina spoke up, following in the observations. "It's clear that your mother has had a profound influence on you. And your father is from a well-respected merchant family in Crossroads." Lady Angelina Jordana was the daughter of the Pyrisian knight, Sir Belfor Jordana. Gabriella would later learn that Angelina was assigned to help assist Lady Ardel, but also to see if she had any untoward dispositions. Angelina wore her curly brown hair at shoulder length and her brown eyes were slightly hooded, giving her a mysterious and private appearance.
"You are correct, Lady Angelina," Gabriella confirmed, her voice filled with pride. "My father, Geoffrey Allonica, is known throughout the kingdom for his fair trade and sharp business sense. And my uncle is a minor lord with lands near Crossroads. Our family is close, and I was raised to respect the cultures of both Zakhara and Cynalon."
Baroness Lysandra's expression grew thoughtful. "Your background is quite unique, my dear. It may serve you well in the complexities of court life."
"I am afraid that I am not as experienced as many regarding courtly life, Lady Vanakus," Gabriella grudgingly admits. "I have learned much, but I lived in Zakhara until the last five years, when father finally allowed me to help with the caravans. Eventually my mother and uncle urged me to attend more balls, feasts and noble parties."
Baroness Lysandra's gaze sharpened. "Your uncle is Lord Kerim Allonica of Crossroads, yes?"
Gabriella nodded. "Indeed. My father's brother holds the title and lands. Our family on both sides has been in trade for generations, but my uncle has always had a taste for nobility."
The Baroness's gaze grew distant as she considered this. "Trade is a noble pursuit in its own right," she said. "It is the lifeblood of any kingdom."
The conversation turned to lighter topics, but Gabriella could feel the undercurrents of scrutiny and assessment. She knew she was being sized up, not just as Validar's potential partner, but as a member of the nobility. It was both thrilling and terrifying, but she held her own, her mother's lessons in poise and diplomacy serving her well.
Gabriella leaned back as her thoughts once more returned to the present. It was a successful, if stressful, encounter. But there would likely be more scrutiny on this upcoming trip than before. Then she was a girl who fancied the Baroness’ son and he her. Now she would be, what? They were not officially betrothed. It was too soon for that.
She looked at the ring on her left hand. It bore the seal of the Barony of Pyris. This ring had belonged to Lady Lysandra. And now it was hers, given to her by her love. This was the legitimacy to which she was able to cling. One day, she would be the Baroness of Pyris herself.