Mystical (Sequel to Magical)

Chapter 7

I'm sorry this took so long. it's all I have to say. I'm graduating with my BA next week! Hooray! Masters program to start in August! :D Enjoy

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I slept again after my father had left the cottage. I vaguely remembered Caius coming in to check on me and Alume sleeping on my legs. I was one of the first awake the next morning, surprised to see Caius asleep on a cot in the room, and Alume curled up beside him. I smiled and went to splash some water on my face, freshening up. I was relieved to see my clothes hanging on a partition within the cottage, which I used to change behind. I walked outside of the cottage, loving the brush of the cool morning air on my cheeks and the orange glow of the sunrise just above the horizon.

"I am glad to see you are feeling better, Carina." I heard Septa approach and I nodded, turning to face him.

"I figured I had enough rest." I replied. I didn't want to waste what precious time I had sleeping because I was too weak to fight something as simple as hypothermia.

"We do not want you to push yourself, young one." He reiterated what Caius had told me multiple times and I sighed.

"I know, but I feel a lot better. I'm just a bit hungry." I half-lied. I really did feel better than before, but I was still a little dizzy and weak feeling. I only hoped it would pass.  

He didn't respond to that and instead indicated for me to follow him. We walked further into the village and I found more and more people moving about. I could also distinctly smell food. When the villagers began to notice me I was met with curtsies, bows, and the occasional "my lady". We approached a plump older woman with graying brown hair who was lecturing some younger boys on being nicer to their little sister. She turned to us and I was once again met with a curtsy and "My lady, Lord Septa, how may I assist you?"

"Is there anything for Carina to eat? She's still recovering from her illness." Septa said, turning a knowing eye toward me. I guess faking feeling better didn't work on dragons.

"Of course, I will bring you something at once my dear." I was led to sit at a table that was set outside just for me so that I didn't have to leave Septa's side. Once I was settled with some more of that delicious stew and bread, Septa spoke.

"I had an interesting conversation with Caius yesterday." He began.

"Oh?" I asked, feigning innocence. I still remember what Septa had told me back in Atra when my interest in Caius was noticed by the nosey dragon. Too much power, not enough balance.

"Yes. You recall what I told you before?"

"Yes, Septa. I do." I managed through the stuffing of my face, resisting the urge to roll my eyes.

"I cannot stop you. I only wish to know if this is truly what you wish. It cannot be taken lightly. Not only is your task a dangerous one, but Caius's heart is fragile. Do not engage him if you are not serious." I felt my heart soften at Septa's words. He was worried for Caius's feelings. I swallowed and smiled at Septa.

"Aww, that's so sweet, Septa. You care about Caius's feelings." I teased and he snorted.

"Do not placate me so, Carina." I could tell by the glint in his eyes he was being just as teasing. I laughed, but sobered quickly when I realized he was still waiting for an answer.

"You have nothing to worry about in that matter, Septa. I-..." Why was this so hard to say out loud? "I-...I love him." I finally said, and Septa's face transformed into the scariest smile I had ever seen. It was wide and his teeth gleamed, eyes wide.

"That-...that is marvelous Carina."

"It...is?" I asked, confused by the strange glee and emotion I heard in Septa's voice. It was different from how he usually sounded.