Villainess From the Stars

52. Consideration

It was after Vienna and her father's usual dawn run, as they came to rest by the Old One that she approached the subject of the Elem king's offer.

Vienna rested her head against the bark of the tree. 

Her father spoke up first, "What is it, little flower?"

She took a moment, wondering how her father would react before speaking, "The Elem king wishes to court me."

"Ah, I suspected that might be so. His gaze would not leave you during the investiture ball."

"You knew?" Vienna looked up at her father who stood leaning against the tree to her right.

"He could keep you protected. I have the understanding that it was one of the reasons he was undercover to make sure you would be kept safe."

"That's not enough of a reason to court him though." Vienna sighed.

"Do you like him?"

Vienna looked away, running her fingers over the grass blades allowing how they tickled her hands to distract her for the moment.

"I find him attractive...but Pop I never saw myself courting anyone. At least not for a while there's so many things I'd like to do."

"Like what?"

Vienna looked back to her father, "I want to see if I can find them, Pop. I want to travel this planet and search for other Myndælfêt. I can't very well do that if I'm queen."

Pop straightened and pointed down the road, "Perhaps you should tell him that, little flower."

Vienna turned and looked to see the king upon a noble ebony steed. His hair tied high upon his head the turquoise ribbon flying in the breeze.

He and his steed came right before them by the meadow before he dismounted and came forward with a small nod toward the Duke before he smiled at Vienna.

"I was not sure I'd find you available so early."

Vienna stood brushing the dirt off her slacks and watched her father as he eyed the king not quite warily but with thoroughness.

"I came to let you know I'll be returning to Corsidi, there are affairs of state that need attending to."

Vienna was surprised, she thought the king would be staying in the Capital for a week. A sense of loss came upon her and she wondered at it, how could she feel loss for someone she didn't even have as her own? It was silly.

"I must leave. However, if you wish to send me correspondence, my lady, you may send it through the Mapmaker...excuse me...Atlas Renard. He'll make sure I receive it." His hand came out and Vienna placed her hand in his, he bowed over it kissing the air above like the customs of the Continent. Atlas had informed her that such things were quite unheard of in Corsidi where they were much more reserved. "I look forward to your next correspondence, my lady." He raised his head and gave a curt nod to the Duke before he left upon his noble steed.

Vienna's gaze traveled after him, "I suppose that's it then."

 "I wouldn't be so sure, my little flower."