Roaring 20s Royalty

Chapter 6- Arrangements

Dinner the evening of that first day was tense. About eight O'clock, I along with all the maids, chefs and special guests was called to the dining room. Now, even as everyone talked among themselves, I found myself unable to meet my parents eyes. They didn't notice of course, they were too busy speaking about me instead of to me.

They'd say things like, "Oh she's such a dedicated girl, I don't know what we'd do without her." Or, "Oh she simply loves it, We've told her to take breaks before but she can't stop herself. I suppose that's what happens when you raise an angel."

It was all idiotic boasting, and unsurprisingly, I hated it. Each moment here, within the palace, felt fake. I understand parents can't be completely blamed, they do have an image to uphold as any of us do, theirs is just a little more delicate.

I fiddled with my hands on my lap below the table. I couldn't touch my food. I know I'd done it many times before, but hold a secret this big was sickening. I knew the consequences if it failed, but I needed the reward.

"Nova, Darling," I snapped into focus at my Mother's voice, and undoubtedly she looked a little startled at how fast I turned to her, "I apologise dear, but me and your father have been talking with some of the regional Lords, and there's been someone who's become known to us that we'd like you to go an meet. He's the perfect partner for you, so we've begun the marriage arrangements."

The colour drained from my face, I could feel the light-headedness. As my eyes trailed across the room with despair at what was finally and inevitably happening, I could see Jurgelda by the door, looking at me with sorrowful eyes. I wanted to cry. Every detail of what we had planned got flushed away with only some simple words.

I held hope though, and in a sort of determinedly angry manner I blurted out, "When do you want me to leave?"
It sounded odd surely to anyone who would know of my plan to leave, but to me it made perfect sense.

My mother raised her eyebrows, "Well, I suppose in the next few days." she had a slight grin, "You're eager?"

I paused for a second to think about her answer, stuttering when I answered, "Well... I suppose since I've never really had a partner before I think I am ready. I'd like to try something new."

Her eyes, my mother's eyes, they shone with something not kind, nor evil. Sinful, maybe. Greed. it was the kind of look you see in a villains eyes, or a lawyer's. I knew what I was doing, but in order to ensure my plan worked, I needed my mother to believe I was truly interested.

"I can start making some arrangements as soon as tomorrow, Darling, so if you'd like I could organize a trip into the city to pick out some new dresses for you?" My mother offered.

Seeing an opportunity I swallowed my mouthful, "I would appreciate that, mother, but you needn't bother yourself. If you just give me the money, me and Jurgelda can go while you can deal with things here." I put my hand over hers reassuringly.

She smiled to me and nodded, "Alright then, that'll suit perfectly. Make sure when you go that you stay safe, the city can be very dangerous alone, Nova."

I nodded dismissingly, "Really, mother, I'll be fine. I have Jurgelda to look after me." I pushed my chair back from the table and got to my feet, "Please, excuse me mother. Since we'll be going early tomorrow morning I'd like to get an early night. Goodnight."

"Goodnight, Darling, I'll begin the plans as soon as possible, it will be a great opportunity for you."

I was already to the door, Jurgelda taking up my trail, "We need to talk." I whispered.

She followed me out into the hallways, not to my room, but the drawing room. Sometimes I liked to go there in the evening and relax by the crackling fire.

Jurgelda shut the doors behind me with a satisfying clunk, "So, Ma'am, you wished to.speak with me? I imagine it concerns this plan of yours?"

I took a seat bear the said fire and breathed a sigh of comfort, "Precisely. Look, you heard what my mother was saying, she didn't exactly keep it secret, and I imagine she didn't intend to. Either way, however bad this sounds for the plan, it's perfect."

She looked at me with a questioning expression.

"Listen," I continued, "My parents will not wish to travel with me to this Lord's home so therefore I can leave under the excuse that you are brining me to the station to then get a train there. Once we're at that stage it doesn't matter as long as I get the right train to Jorki."

She nodded slowly, "I understand, Ma'am, however what do you intend to do with the aftermath here? The Lord will undoubtedly inquire about you after a few days, then they will all realise that you're missing."

I shrugged, laying back into the chair, "My parents don't know me well enough to know I'd run away. The first immediate thought will be that I was kidnapped or killed. And even if they do believe I've left, they have no way of knowing where. I'll obviously be using an alias so there will be nothing tied to me as far as purchases." I leaned forward on my knees, "I just need to be confident that you won't spill your tongue." I tried not to scare or intimidate her, but I saw her swallow hard.

As I was about to apologise, the door to my left burst open and my father walked, looking thoroughly pleased and full with food, "Oh, Nova, why there you are!" He boomed, "I was about to send a maid to fetch you. My men and I are going to the festival tomorrow, so instead of going shopping with your maid, here, I want you to come with us."