The Caged Bird

26. Favor Rite

After a blissful night and with their desires satiated, August and Lark reluctantly separated late in the morning as Lark had promised to join Sara and her parents for lunch. August still had many hours until he could move freely as the sun was bright in the cloudless sky. She joined the family in the servant's wing where they enjoyed a beautiful platter of food that Sara's mother had prepared. Evidently she had been assigned to the kitchen and was working among the cooks where she easily settled into her role. Sara's father had joined the guard and had been given a relaxed station. Despite the lack of stimulation guarding such a quiet castle, he was also relieved to have something to keep him occupied. They had already gained some weight and appeared considerably more vibrant. Lark had recieved news from Bernard before she had gone to meet Sara. She showed them the letter. It confirmed that they were the recognized owners of their farm and could return of they were willing to press charges against their son. They could send word any time to have him detained by a castle guard. This was considered a great honor, as criminals captured by the human enforcers in the village were often badly mistreated. The recent surge of rouge vampire attacks left little time to manage human troublemakers. Patience was wearing thin and criminals were often banished within days of their capture. In these few days they were often neglected or abused. A public scandal could be avoided if the Lord's guard arrested Sara's brother. They would not parade him through the streets or punish him in the village square.

Sara's parents seemed conflicted by the news. Though they expressed sincere appreciation, Lark could see that the thought of having their son arrested caused them significant anxiety. They loved him. And they were still recovering from their ordeal. Lark assured them that they could take their time deciding their next course of action. She and Sara returned to their chambers feeling a bit lighter. One immediate issue had been nearly resolved. But after an afternoon of reading and embroidery they went to see Lady Ferra and were confronted with a new challenge.

"Do you feel you are prepared for your Favor Rite?" she asked as Lark recited a poem from the book in her laugh. Lark gave her a quizzical look and paused in her recitation.

"Favor Rite?" she echoed.

"When a pet is claimed as Favored there is usually a celebration. A Favor Rite. The local Lords and their Favored pets usually attend, along with the host's harem and occasionally distinguished guests or council members."

"I have never heard of it," Lark protested. "And I am not claimed."

Ferra laughed.

"Oh, my dear, it is only a matter of time. You will have a dance with the Lord and be formally introduced. Otherwise your only task will be to accept gifts and eat. It is nothing to trouble yourself with. If you remember our lessons you will be the envy of every pet."

"I am humbled by your compliments, my Lady," Lark replied. She was excited by the prospect of a party in her honor, but she could not help but feel that it would serve to expose her further. She glanced up at Ferra. "But do you think it will make me a target?"

Ferra shook her head delicately.

"Not in the moment. There will be too many guards and allies around. And the castle is already aware of your status. Making it public will hardly make a difference."

Lark nodded and was lost in thought. She was so distracted that Ferra soon dismissed her and she and Sara lingered in the courtyard. They gazed up at the stars and strolled the perimeter in silence, appreciating the chorus of frogs and insects. An owl called in the distance as Sara collected herbs in her pouch. When they finally slipped back into their chambers and Sara headed to bed, August came to visit.

"Good evening," he greeted her. She looked up at him from the embroidery in the lap and smiled.

"Good evening, my Lord," she replied. August came and sat beside her on the couch sliding his arm around her shoulders carefully as not to disturb her work.