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

CHAPTER 35

MYRA
27 JUNE 1415

It was Edward, trying his best to clear his throat. James's face blanched, but I held his hand for support.

"Yes, James, I would like to know which artist the Medici is bringing," I raised my voice. James blinked for a moment, comprehending the situation. Idiot! I'm changing the topic in case Edward had eavesdropped on our plan. This made me realise that I was truly afraid of Edward—of his mood swings, of his reactions.

"Yes, my lady," James stood and bowed. "I will find out from Lord Victor about who is accompanying the Medici."

"Thank you." I stood, curtsying with a smile. "Your Highness," I addressed Edward, giving him a curtsy, too. He blinked at my act. Couldn't he digest the fact that I could pay him respect?

Behind him were all the children of my class, who also looked transfixed. Had they all heard our plan?

"Lady Farrow," Lord Norfolk approached and bowed. "Here are the twigs you asked for." A footman behind him rolled over a cart full of oak twigs.

"Yes, thank you, my lord," I flashed a smile at Lord Norfolk. "And James," I added, addressing my friend, "you stay. I will need your help in my class today."

"You don't say?" Edward interjected. Jealousy was already radiating from his imperial aura. Ha! Bring it on, you dolt!

"Children," I announced, "good morning!" I gestured for them to sit on the grass.

"Good morning, Lady Farrow," said the children in unison, but they lacked enthusiasm. Did they also sense Edward's sour mood?

"Before we start the story today, I am going to teach you about hygiene." My eyes roved over the children. "Does anyone know what personal hygiene is?"

Stepping forward, Emma was the first one to raise her hand with excitement.

"Yes, Emma."

"Keep yourself clean, bathe daily, clean your teeth every day," she said, counting cutely on her fingers, "wash your hands before eating, wear clean clothes, and..." she trailed off, thinking. I glanced at Edward, whose eyes flashed with utter pride for his niece.

"Too much for every day," muttered James in my ear.

"Well done, Emma!" I exclaimed. "This is for everyone." I turned to James. "Including adults."

"I do bathe, my lady," he objected.

"I do not doubt it, my lord." I smiled at him.

"But Lady Farrow, we do not have enough water to bathe every day," Timothy, the red-haired boy, objected.

"There are public baths to use," I suggested. "You can also keep your body clean with washcloths." The children nodded. "This is for your parents, too. When you go home, teach them what you learned today."

"But the public baths are already filthy," one child complained.

I didn't know what to say. I looked at Edward for an answer.

He blinked a couple of times, understanding the situation. Was it too much to ask to keep the children clean? Many of the sicknesses in Medieval Europe rose mainly from unhygienic surroundings.

"There will be special baths for children in the village," Edward announced, addressing the children. "I will personally make sure this job is done soon."

"Thank you, Your Highness," I said, smiling at him.

James leaned in, muttering in my ear, "Step one of pushing him."