The Fire Within

Fondness

"Is there a reason why Alex and my father wouldn't get along?" Cirice asked, meeting Ithica's eyes in her vanity mirror. Ithica's brow furrowed as she finished brushing Cirice's hair.

"Not that I know of, why?" she asked, stepping back. Cirice turned and eyed her.

"The past two times my father and Alex have been in the same room, it has been like all the air has been sucked out to space. They seem so formal and unnatural." Cirice said, shuddering. Ithica sighed.

"I think it's just the way your father is, Miss. Forgive me for saying but he is a hard man. He has been through so much. I'm sure he is just worried for you." she assured as Cirice stood and made her way to the couch.

"Worried for me? Because of Alex?" Cirice asked as Ithica sprinkled a liquid mixture upon her pillow.

"May I speak plainly, Miss?" Cirice met her eyes and nodded.

"Since the first time you laid eyes on Mr. Idris you've been enamored, and he of you. It was no secret that you both had such a fondness for each other. I am sure your father just worries that the fondness has stretched into adulthood."

Cirice pondered her words. She liked Alex, even more so when she remembered who he was. Did she love him? Perhaps, yet she hadn't yet had an occasion to think of such things. Then another question arose.

"If it has, what is the issue?" Cirice shot. Eyeing Ithica. Ithica shifted uncomfortably.

"Forgive me, Miss, but he is not of noble birth. Marrying him would not secure very much." Cirice scoffed.

"I suppose securing my happiness wouldn't be considered. I often forget that we aren't in Boston anymore." Cirice said sourly.

"Is that where you have been? In the future?" Ithica asked. Cirice chuckled.

"Yeah, things are quite different there," Cirice said softly.

"Well, if that is all, I'll be off. Goodnight." Ithica said, going to the door. She hesitated for a moment, turning back to see Cirice staring at the fire.

"I would not worry too much, Miss." Cirice glanced at her. "Alex is a fine man, and if it is one thing your father understands, it's the power of love."

****

Cirice awoke the next morning, not remembering much of the dreams that had plagued her uncomfortable sleep. She rolled over, noting the angry gray sky outside of the three windows to her right.

Waking up here, safe and calm was still foreign to her. She was convinced that every time she fell asleep, she would awaken back in Boston and back in her dank bedroom. However, as proved by the last few mornings she was wrong. Her room was slightly chilly, however, the fire still warmed it.

She pushed herself up, recalling the events from the day before and going to the door. Just outside, Mason lay, softly snoring.

"Mason, are you awake?" she asked softly. The Doberman's eyes opened, a groan erupting from it. He looked up at her.

"I wanna talk to you about something," she said, looking down at him. Mason sighed and disappeared in a cloud of smoke. He reappeared in his human form and gave a soft smile.

"What do you need?" he asked. Cirice gestured to the room and he followed her in. She shut the door behind him as he took a seat on the couch.

"I saw you follow Alex and my father a few days ago," Cirice revealed, taking a seat on the opposite couch. Mason sat with his hands clasped between his knees, his eyes blank.

"I would like to know what they said." Cirice further clarified. Mason cleared his throat.

"They were talking about you. Alex was concerned about your safety, Papa assured him you were protected." Mason said, looking at her.

"Did they seem...tense with one another?" Cirice countered, wringing her hands. Mason noticed the movement.

"Yeah, but they've always been like that. Remember when you two first met? How angry your father was with your combined conduct." Mason said, chuckling softly as Cirice recalled that day.

"I had always wanted to climb that tree. He was just the push I needed." Cirice scoffed to herself as Mason stood.

"I wouldn't worry about their differences. Your main focus needs to be your safety. Have you had any luck producing the Hellfire?" Mason questioned as Cirice sighed, looking down at her palms.

"No. I don't think I ever will again," she said, crestfallen. Mason smiled.

"Don't fret, it will come to you. For now, just focus on tonight. Everyone will be elated to see you." Mason said, starting towards the door. Cirice followed him with her eyes.

"Thank you, for trusting me," Cirice said absentmindedly. Mason nodded.

"I will keep my ears and eyes open. Now I must depart before Ithica finds out you have been receiving guests without a chaperone." Cirice nodded and he left her in silence.