Once Upon A [Hidden] Time - [Stolen] Series IV

CHAPTER 25

MYRA
20 JUNE 1415

Upon entering the dining hall, my disappointment was met when I found out Edward was nowhere to be found. People rose to greet us. I took a seat beside James and was content that the King's seat was vacant, but I was not happy about Edward being absent. Surprisingly, I was the only female at the table.

"Lady Farrow," said Lord Norfolk, "honour us with your knowledge of poetry tonight." All the other men nodded in approval.

"What should I share?" I looked towards James for help.

"Anything about Rumi?" he suggested.

I thought for a second, rummaging through the cluster of words in my mind, taking refuge in the wine on the table.

"Poetry can be dangerous, especially beautiful poetry, because it gives the illusion of having had the experience without actually going through it," I announced.

"Indeed," said Lord Norfolk.

"Not my words," I grinned. "Rumi's."

"Ha!" James exclaimed. "That's what I love about you, knocking us off with your wit." He wasn't flirting, but anyone could see he was smitten. I really could use him to keep tabs on the court's gossip.

I looked at him with a serious expression. "You had better run from me. My words are fire." The patrons at the table fell silent. James stared at me, blanched.

"Ha!" I smirked, copying him. "Not my words, Rumi's again!"

The lords applauded upon my remark and presented a toast to me.

"Lady Farrow," addressed Lord Norfolk, "as you may know, I look after the castle's household. I was told by the King that, should you need anything in his absence, you can let me know."

I thought for a second. "I do require something, and thought of waiting for His Majesty," I answered.

"You can tell me, as His Majesty gave me strict orders to fulfil your needs," he said.

"I would like to move my children to private quarters, not in the Great Hall, so that they can study without distraction."

"Is there a problem in the Great Hall?" James asked.

"They get easily distracted and sometimes uncomfortable with so many guards around," I replied.

"Very well," Lord Norfolk remarked. "I shall see it done tomorrow morning."

"Thank you," I smiled at him. "And also, a large easel, some ink, and all other writing tools, including parchments."

"Are you a scribe?" asked Lord Victor, who I was told was responsible for the court's entertainment.

"I would like to teach my children how to read and write, rather than just listen to the stories," I answered.

"You are doing so much for these peasants," James commented, his eyes showing pride for me. "Feeding them, nurturing their minds."

"I thank His Majesty for believing in my work," I said with utter honesty. Had the King taken me for some harlot, I would have ended up on his bed and not teaching the children. "I would also need Oak tree twigs, cut in a foot size—as many as you can arrange."

"May I ask the purpose?" asked Lord Norfolk.

"For oral hygiene, my lord," I replied. "The twigs can be used for toothbrushes. I need to teach these children how to keep themselves clean and healthy."

"Indeed, a positive approach," commented James.

"A healthy body contributes to a healthy mind," I said, addressing all, "and these children live a life with no privilege. I want to do what I can in my power."