Maybe One Day

Chapter 2

Ailesse traveled to the nearby village, her eyes scanning the bustling marketplace filled with merchants, townsfolk, and the aroma of fresh bread and spices. She needed to blend in and present herself as a suitable candidate for the prince's affection. She was seething with anger at the thought of her mother's death, but the excitement of the task ahead kept her focused. She would kill the golden prince.

Her first stop was a clothing boutique renowned for its fine attire. As she entered, the shopkeeper, an older woman with keen eyes, greeted her warmly. "Welcome, my lady. How may I assist you today?"

"I need gowns suitable for a royal ball," Ailesse replied, her voice smooth and commanding. "Something that will catch the eye of a prince."

The shopkeeper's eyes sparkled with interest. "Ah, you must be attending the ball for Prince Arran's hand in marriage. You've come to the right place."

Ailesse spent the next hour selecting and trying on various gowns, finally settling on an exquisite, deep emerald dress that accentuated her striking features. Next, she visited a cosmetics stall where she purchased makeup to enhance her natural beauty. The stall owner, a young woman with a cheerful disposition, helped her choose shades that highlighted her eyes and lips, ensuring she would be unforgettable.

With her preparations nearly complete, Ailesse found lodgings at the finest inn in the village, a grand establishment reserved for the wealthy and noble. The innkeeper, a rotund man with a genial smile, showed her to a luxurious suite.

"This room should suit you well, my lady," he said, opening the door to reveal a spacious room adorned with plush furnishings and a large canopy bed.

Ailesse thanked him and entered the room, closing the door behind her. She looked at her reflection in the mirror, seeing not just a beautiful woman but a determined siren ready to fulfill her destiny. The anger she felt for her mother's death mingled with the excitement of the task at hand, fueling her resolve. She felt a bit worried. There were many beautiful women in Naxos what would make her any different? But then she remembered almost everyone she had met her here had ogled at her beauty. I mean who wouldn't? The plump full lips. The fiery red hair that no one else had. Her green blue eyes. It was a wonder nobody was kissing the ground she walked on. Oh, wait they already did. She chuckled to herself.