The Soul Tracer

Recovery

The night finally past and as the sun broke over the rolling hills I could open my eyes. The room once again fills with a magnificent golden hue, that looks more spectacular then yesterday. Clara was sleeping in the chair next to me. She's been with me all night and I doubt she's had any rest. I dare not disturb her. My forehead is still covered in sweat, but the nausea has passed and there is only trails of dry cracking blood on my face. I reach over for my book on my bedside table, all my muscles are stiff and ache. I grab my book, Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, and quickly roll back into a comfortable position. The pages stick together as I flick through finding my favourite quote.

"When he shall die,

Take him and cut him out in little stars,

And he will make the face of heaven so fine

That all the world will be in love with night

And pay no worship to the garish sun."

Clara starts to wake.

"Morning Clara." I crock

"My lady!" She sounds surprised, she rises from her seat in an instant and curtsies, them walks out hastily. I listen to her loud footsteps down the hallway, soon joined by another pair of footsteps. Clara opens the door with haste and Mama enters, her silk night gown covered in lace flowing around her.

"My dear child! How are you feeling?" She sits in Clara's seat and takes my hand in a firm grip.

"Better, Mama, much better."

"That's excellent news, I thought I was going to see you pass last night, and after your father...." She chokes.

"Papa was a noble man, Mama, he did his country proud and went down with dignity." My voice is hoarse, but my throat no longer hurts.

Clara leaves the room quietly. Mama is no longer able to talk and nods politely. I lean over and kiss her forehead, ignoring my aching muscles.

"You should return to bed Mama, it's early. I promise I'll be fine, I'll see you in the morning."

"Yes, I think I shall."

She kisses my hand, then let's go of my hand and walks out in her naturally graceful manner. I lay back down and fall back to sleep.

When I wake, breakfast has already been delivered, plain toast and tea. I pick at the toast swallowing it down with the slightly cold tea. From my bed I have a beautiful view through the window. The lines of trees and walls of bushes, the light dirt paths leading to the river and the follies. I watch as little snow flakes begin to land on my window and cover the garden with a light layer of white. Small bumps start to appear on my arm and I slide down under the blankets. Slowly I stretch my arm out to press the lever, to call Clara, then quickly tuck it back under the blankets. Clara appears with haste.

"Yes my lady? Is everything fine my Lady? Have you got a fever? I can get some flannels." Panic fills her tone.

"Calm down Clara, no need to panic. It's quite the opposite, I'm freezing, could you send someone up to light the fire please."

Clara's face filled with relief. "Yes my lady, of course."