The Spy Heiress

A Chance Encounter Pt. 1

Restia likes Sundays above all other days, for it is market day in Altabella. While it is not strictly incumbent upon her to assist in procuring supplies for the manor, she willingly lends a hand to the servants, relishing the opportunity to escape outdoors and unwind for a few precious hours.

Today, she meticulously applied makeup and wore her usual servant clothes. Determined to avoid unnecessary trouble, she opts to maintain a discreet presence, keenly aware of her ties to the prestigious House of Jarvinen, even though her identity remains largely unrecognized beyond the walls of the manor. As she ventures into the bustling marketplace, her senses are inundated by the kaleidoscope of shops organized into different sections, each boasting its unique specialty.

"Milady, do you need help with those?" queried an elderly woman, emerging before a quaint wooden shop suffused with the fragrant aroma of herbs, spices, and potions. Restia stood by, balancing two laden baskets brimming with fresh carrots and parsnips.

"Thank you, Mrs. Thecla. I can manage. Where is Nivo?" Mrs. Thecla, a seasoned herbalist, presided over the modest shack transformed into an apothecary, tucked away on the outskirts of the bustling marketplace. Here, the throngs were sparse compared to the heart of commerce. Nivo, her grandson, and Restia's long-time friend, was nowhere in sight, prompting Restia's inquiry. She had known him since childhood, their friendship enduring through the years. Mrs. Thecla and Nivo were possibly the only individuals in the marketplace who were aware of Restia's noble status.

"He might have caught sight of the new play, Milady," remarked the elderly woman.

"I was just on my way there. By the way, I have something for you," Restia said, producing a pouch brimming with goods from her pockets.

"These are ginger that I cultivated this summer," she explained.

"Oh, my! These are quite precious. Perhaps you should keep them or sell them, Milady," suggested Mrs. Thecla.

"Ms. Thecla, I insist on giving these to you. I've learned they're excellent for the stomach. Furthermore, you can brew them into tea, a perfect remedy for warming you up during the upcoming winter."

"Your generosity knows no bounds, Milady. I am truly grateful," expressed Mrs. Thecla, her voice filled with warmth and appreciation.

"I owe you my gratitude, Ms. Thecla. Your wisdom in the field of herbal medicine has been invaluable to me," replied Restia, her words carrying a sense of deep respect and admiration. With a fond farewell, Restia bid Mrs. Thecla goodbye.

After perusing the apothecary's wares, she delights in lingering at the bustling public square to witness the captivating mystery play. She scanned the bustling crowd in search of her friend Nivo, but she had no luck. The play had already commenced, and the stage was adorned with actors portraying a regal figure and what appeared to be a majestic white bird. Restia's fondness for theatrical performances was evident; she found joy in the elaborate costumes and intricate stage decorations. However, her enjoyment is always cut short, as she must depart with the other servants before sunset to return to the manor by carriage. Otherwise, she'll find herself obliged to embark on a 30-minute walk at dusk along the eerie, poorly lit road, risking the wrath of the head butler or, worse yet, the Duke or Duchess.

Restia settled into her chosen spot, immersing herself completely in the unfolding drama on the stage.

A mysterious illness swept across the kingdom, claiming victims far and wide. Among the afflicted was the revered king himself, his condition deteriorating rapidly until he lay on his deathbed. In a desperate attempt to save him, one of his most trusted servants brought forth a peculiar solution—a bird reportedly spotted perched outside the window of a sick individual during the night. Astonishingly, by morning, the sick person had miraculously recovered.