Culture Shock

Chapter Ten

A herald came up in front of my door early the next morning after the grand ball. Leopold was inviting for a Chanoyu.

"What is that?" I asked.

"It is a tea ceremony for relaxation, my lady. Unfortunately, the king is to meditate in the temple. You will be with the prince and some of the heads of state."

I took a glance at Bo Young wearing Yukata with wide belt of cloth tightened around her waist. The herald's belt was lower.

Japan.

My lips could not keep the smile forming with excitement, knowing that I am to wear a Kimono. I'm a Japanese lady today.

I expressed my agreement and stayed in my room for minutes. Breakfast would have been the last thing I'd do. I've been eating with Johann and I currently do not want to see him after what has happened in the ball.

I even had to lurk behind the curtains to avoid him. I've made the lamest escape through Leonidas and I was aware it didn't feel respectful. Bo Young was right about him, yet I shall not be deceived by gestures.

Instead, I should think of the greatest plot on how to step out of the palace without getting caught. I am not permitted to wander around for my own safety. The king warned me regarding the rebels waiting for the perfect attack.

Still, I have this urge to walk around the city. Skyscrapers beneath the tree's branches are still mystery. They weren't economical establishments, but tall houses like Leopold's with vast architectural designs.

Before seven, we ate breakfast. I know. Too early, but the ceremony would start on seven and it's how it should be (shrugs). I had no choice but to face him. He didn't talk and it wasn't like the usual meal we had, full of conversations. Bad conversations.

The silence was deafening. I waited for him to speak for minutes, but he did not.

"My lord?" I decided to initiate.

He gazed at me, carefully placing his fork on the side. "Yes, my lady?" His voice was a quick sharp pain onto my skin. Although it was kind, the guilt would not drop it.

"I apologize for..."

"No, you shouldn't. Please." He closed his eyes and took a deep breathe. "Rushing things never yields. I shall be the one apologizing."

"Up to you," I whispered.

At seven, stallions marched with us to Leopold's. The chariot Johann and I were riding was strongly guarded by the knights including Leonidas, protecting their prince and the heir-bearer.

"You look magnificent, my lady," he murmured between the horses' hoof steps. My shoulders shrank as my gaze lowered in uneasiness.

Stop it, Johann.

Bo Young has helped me with my Kimono. It felt way heavy at first. My fingers danced along with the steps and kept silent. I'm not comfortable around him being Johann. There's more ease when he's an arrogant prince. I feel being tortured minute by minute.

Leopold has a hut behind his house. A petite tea house of serenity. In a well, Johann washed his hands by scooping water from the pail through a bamboo ladle.

"What is this for?" I asked.

"Hush. We shall lower down our voice."

Oh, I forgot. Tea ceremony should be quiet. Okaaaay.

Instead, I whispered. "What is this for?"

He chortled and shook his head. What? "This is to cleanse the guests' soul."