A Fool's Tale

Chapter 16 - A Painful Encounter

I made my way to the dining room and entered. It was empty. I was early for dinner and late for lunch. There were some black bread rolls scattered on the buffet table, so I snagged two to soothe my grumbling stomach, then left. What now? Gilles said we wouldn't have much free time, so this might be my best chance to explore the castle grounds. But before doing that, I wanted to drop my costume off at my new home. I trotted to the entertainer's hall while chewing the hard, black bread. It was tasty, but not as fresh as the rolls I had yesterday.

Arriving at the big wooden doors, I entered and peering around. The hall looked so different in the daytime. Most of the benches and chairs were empty and natural light poured in from square windows set high in the brickwork. It was hard to believe this peaceful room was jammed with boisterous activity just a short while ago.

There was one person present. Silver sat on a high stool, her back to me. She swayed side to side, humming softly to herself. She had been so enchanting last night, like an angel come to life. I felt awkward just being in her presence.

I padded across the floor and shyly approached. "Pardon me, I don't mean to disturb you."

Silver turned and her eyes glittered like sapphires. "It's no bother. How can I help you?" Her voice was lyrical and pure even when she spoke such simple words.

She made me feel like a young child. I don't know why, but I sensed she was no ordinary human; that Silver was an ancient being. Blushing, I held forth my costume. "I'm new and I don't know where to keep my things."

She smiled moonlight at me and pointed to the left. "A change room is through that door. There are a number of storage shelves. Just choose an empty one. Do not fear. We take care of one another. No one will touch your possessions."

"Thank you." I quickly hurried through the door she'd pointed toward. I think if I were braver, I would have complimented Silver on her performance, or asked how she'd become so talented, but I was overcome with shyness, and didn't want to take up her valuable time.

Inside was a simple windowless room. Chairs, mirrors, tables and dressing screens had been pushed up against the walls. To the right was an open closet. Multi-colored outfits hung from long wooden poles, or were folded and placed on shelves. Some of the compartments appeared to have personal items stored with the clothing as well. I took my costume and placed it on a vacant shelf. I also removed my mother's comb and put it on top of the costume. It was odd, but a feeling of pride stole over me. I'd never truly owned anything before, and it felt like these few meager possessions represented my accomplishments since escaping my uncle. They weren't much, but they were mine.

It was still a few hours until dark, and I decided to start exploring the castle. I departed the hall, and the first place I went was the one that had excited me most upon my arrival; one of the beautiful white towers. I trotted to the one closest to the entertainer's hall. A solid oak door was located on the ground level and a symbol of what appeared to be a swirl of water was etched into the wood. At its base, a guard with a crooked nose and wide chin stood at attention.

I approached. "Excuse me, am I allowed inside?"

He regarded me with a hard gaze. "This is Master Isidor's tower. Only apprentices or his guests may enter."

"Oh." I was disappointed, but also pleased to discover the towers were more than just decorative.

"Do you know if I'd be permitted to enter any of the other towers? I recently received employment here, and would very much like to see what the land looks like from such a height."

The soldier's expression softened. "I tell you what. If you ever come by the main gate when I'm on duty, I'll bring you up one of the guard towers. My name's Peridor."