Sparkles on Thorns.

Sparkles on Thorns

CHAPTER ONE

Deep in the dark

It is the early 20th Century in Tingun, a Minor village in the South of Phillipines. A rustic haven nestled between lush forests and winding rivers. Wooden houses with thatched roofs known as “nipa huts”, stood alongside rice paddles and vegetable gardens, where villagers tilled the land with simple tools.

The people of Tingun are known for their basic farming skills and most particularly having the most beautiful and exquisite maidens amongst the Tan Clans. It was almost the c***k of dawn. All Maidens carefully selected by the prince’s men are gathered in front of the Madilim, an ancient large building, properly designed and intensely guarded giving an aura of a dark power radiating through it’s mighty and mystic monument. The Kabatans are at the rooftops drumming heartily and loudly, Sweats dripping down their chests like bulls who were never tired yet so charming. The atmosphere is filled with sighing and wailing. The villagers are protesting from a distance trying so hard to see what was taking place at the forewalls of the Madilim but prevented by Tingun trained guardsmen. Standing beside the Prince’s messenger is the chief guard of the clan who sheathes his sword forward to command silence. Soon everywhere quiets down, the sound of drumming ceases.

The Prince’s messenger soon began speaking; "Beautiful maidens of Tingun, listen up, this is the 12th year of the Madilim festival. As it’s known by custom, you all are tied to the Clan. This tradition has been passed down from our ancestors and has become the major means of providing for the Royals and the people of Tingun".

The sound of shouts and curses increases, causing the kabatans to start drumming again and after a few seconds everywhere quiets down again. All maidens may now proceed in order into the madilim where you would be taken care of in preparation to meet with your prince charming. Walking Sluggishly into the large room of the Madilim are Maidens of Tingun, whose beauty is like the warm tone of the settling golden sun with their delicate facial structures. They are dressed commonly but their physique is so stunning, captivating all who lay eyes on them.

"They spit out lies with every single breadth!!" whispered Janina, her heart pounding heavily out of her chest, you could feel the heat from her voice, she was trying so hard to hold back her tears. what happened to the many dreams we have for ourselves? I overheard Veeyah telling her papa dauntifully yesterday, that she would do all she can to free her sister Anna before the next Madilim festival. "Free Anna? No one survives that, they make you pay with every single drop of blood. No one who tries to escape remains alive. The Clan is well protected with Tingun guards at each corner of the Shatul protecting the border." Replied Nali, who accepted her fate a long time ago. Soon the maidens enter into the room and the doors are shut.

This dress looks so good on you Anna. Mom would have killed to see you on it. "Thanks Vee".Veeyah stared at her only sister Anna with admiration and mixed emotions. Feelings of sadness soon waved pass her. Her mind flashed back to the last moment spent with her mother. With the last strength left in her, her mother laying on her sickbed pulled her close to her bossom gently and started talking, words finding it hard to escape from her mouth. "Veeyah my mahalko, you’re not a Man, men are born free but you’re an army of women that would change the fate....always remember this. Take care of your sister Anna and your father. you all are forever in my heart." With that she rested on, while the Bathala’s came to take her away.

The Sound of loud drums and Trumpets brought her back to the moment. The festival had begun. Each maiden either handed over in marriage or given out to learn a trade. ‘as they would say’. Veeyah had never set foot into the Madilim but had heard stories from her childhood friend who happened to be serving as an attendant there. "It’s a dark secret vee, she would often say, the Madilim is surrounded by hefty guards at all corners. No one comes in as soon as the ceremony commences. Except of course the invited guests…the corriders are well lit up but the interior rooms are slightly lit. In the interior room, the Prince and his princess are sitted on the highest throne, while the high ranking Datus are placed on lofty tables surrounded by specially trained Kabatans, the maidens are led by the attendants to the dressing rooms to be properly groomed. After which they undergo physical tests and are well taken care of, given the best of food and choicest of wines ‘ perharps their very last. while they await the visitors from the neighbouring clan. I heard from a fellow attendant Vee that their supposed suitors disguise themselves as noble men and give lots of money and fortunes to the Royals after which they take the maiden of their choice. Most of the maidens given out in marriage are most at times abused by the men and those sent out to learn a profitable trade are often victims of s*****y. With so much hopes and dreams they’re lured into the altar only to be slaughtered".The royalties cover their tracks so well that not a single word gets out. Then she would end the narrative by telling Veeyah how lucky she is to a plain girl.

Unlike Anna, Veeyah had a Simple, unassuming appearance, with features that didn’t particularly stand out. Her hair was a mousy brown, cut in a straightforward style that framed her face without much flair . her skin was smooth but not particularly radiant, and her lips weren’t so full. But her eyes were different, They sparkled with a quiet intensity, a deep shade of brown that seemed to hold a world of emotions within. They were bright and bold. Her only point of attraction.

"Can we go now Vee? Before it gets late" . Anna who spent time grooming herself asks Veeyah. Veeyah recalled that very young maidens weren’t allowed close to the border. They’ve let the roughers out Anna. Veeyah knew that Anna wouldn’t like the sound of that. They were men who stood guard over Tingun in the evenings. They were often drunk with their poisonous dogs accompanying them. She didn’t want those people noticing Anna, she had to protect her at all cost. Anna soon let go of the idea of accompanying Veeyah and headed to the hut to spend time with her father.

Veeyah walked slowly as she made her way to the border, she noticed the strange look on each passerbys face. Everyone wore a distressing look. Furrowed brows etched with worry …the festival was over, most have lost daughters, Sisters and even bethroths She cast her mind on the message she was about to receive soon. She hoped it would be something different this time. As soon as she reached the border she sighted the messenger who was already waiting for her to arrive . ”Kumusta po, Veeyah? “Mabuti ako” Ramon she replied. This came all the way from town he said while handing the letter over to her. He came closer and whispered something to her ears. After which he said: This is a very rare opportunity Veeyah…no one in this province knows about it… and then he left. As soon as he was gone, Veeyah hurriedly opened the letter and gasped, her eyes couldn’t contain what she saw!

What!! Don’t tell me you’re thinking of going over there Vee. Said Rosie in a shocking expression. Its really a very far distance, besides you barely have enough money Vee. I have to cease this opportunity Rosie. What if you don’t get to win? Asked Rosie …There’s no harm in trying right? Besides this is the only way out. We barely get to experience life here, Rosie. The little the villagers make are often moved to the Royals. There’s nothing left to gain by staying back . Veeyah replied angrily. Promise me you wouldn’t let out a word about this to either my Father or Anna. I promise Vee. Only if you also promise to come back to us in one piece. I would do all I can Rosie. With that they hugged each other. Rosie pulled out of the hug after a while and bade her childhood friend goodbye after which she headed for the Madilim before the royal guards found out.

Veeyah heaved a very heavy sigh knowing that a lot awaited her soon enough. She walked home slowly, her mind filled with thoughts on what to tell her father and her sister Anna. This was the only way out she thought to herself. She had to cook up something to tell them if not they’d be worried sick.

As soon as she got home, she headed to the farm where she knew her father would be tending to the Chickens. There you are Father! she said as soon as she saw him. "My Unang anak" her father responded. Now tell me where are you off to Veeyah, nowhere papa. Papa where were you earlier on? Oh I was spending some time with your sister Anna telling her stories of how I met your Mother. Oh really? Anna sure loves those stories. she chuckled. Soon she maintained composure remembering she was about to tell her father something that would change the air. Papa do you recall when Mom would often tell us the story of mailili? Yes I recall. The lady that invoked the wrath of the gods against the disgusting king during her time and ended the evils in her land. You want to be like her Veeyah? No papa I’m trying to point out that there’s more out there, we can’t stay here forever and watch things get worse. Rosie told me about an opportunity papa.

Her fathers face turned red and sour. Veeyah could feel that he was not in sync with what she was about to tell him. Only a few people are told about this Father, I could go to school or learn a trade and become something rather than wallow in the fore walls of Tingun with no hope for tomorrow. I want you to become great Vee, but most people who left didn’t have good stories to tell. The world out there is cruel. Replied her father in a sullen expression. The world in here is cruel too papa she replied adamantly. She stepped towards her father and held his hands. "This could be our only chance Dad." I want to give this a try. Veeyah said calmly. "I don’t want anything happening to you Vee. You and Anna are my world". I would be safe father I promise. Her father soon let go of her hands reluctantly and didn’t utter another word he drifted his attention to the Chickens who were beginning to gather around the last grain left.

As soon as Veeyah left the farm for her room, she caught sight of Anna standing behind the door to the entrance of the farm. Anna had a shocking expression on her face almost like one who suffered from a persistent Night mare. Anna soon let go of a word with an itchy and low tone .” vee” she said. Come on Anna I know you eaved dropped on my conversation with father. You’re leaving for the city? Anna gathered the courage to say. Yes Anna. I have to make a way for us Anna. On my way to the border yesterday I heard the some of the roughers say that in three years time we would run out of food here. The royals do not care about the people of Tingun, Anna…they only care about themselves…I’m going to pave a way for us. "But its scary out there vee" …anna let go of a tear from her eyes. Vee couldn’t control her emotions anymore… she drew Anna close to her bossom and gave her a warm hug." I promise to be safe out there Anna." She said.

It was only few hours before daybreak, Veeyah gently opened her eyes and yawned as she was awakened by the sound of the chickens. Still tired from yesterday’s preparation she barely had enough sleep but she had to get up and get ready for a marathon journey. She cast her mind back to what she saw in the letter The worlds biggest audition for the role a maid? Who would be this mighty to involve the world just to employ a maid. She thought to herself. Since the messenger had told her it was from a very prestigious and noble family, it didn’t sound like a scam. But she had to see for herself. She was filled with both excitement and despair about what was soon going to unfold . She packed her Pouch and a few things…she searched inside the pouch which contained a few clothes some books and money before leaving just to make sure. All she had was a little money which she had saved up from tending to peoples farms. she wasn’t sure if it was enough but at least it could cover a distance. She thought to herself. She was certain that her father was sound asleep and she also didn’t want to wake Anna. She headed straight to the border. Almost close to the border she looked around for the carriage which she was certain would be parked around the tree. It was the information Ramon whispered to her ears yesterday. A group of French Scientists who payed a visit to the prince would be leaving for the city very early in the morning. He said and also told her the time and how she could sneak into the back of the carriage. At first she was really scared when she saw the footmen in front of the carriage. Their faces were strange, one she had never seen before. she fought over her fright by thinking of the mission ahead. She hid behind the tree close to the carriage and as soon as she noticed that the men were a little distracted she moved a little forward and proceeded to open the back door of the carriage. As soon as the door was slightly opened, she stepped in gently being careful not to make a sound and as soon as she was settled in, she put her pouch on her laps although feeling very uneasy but thanking her stars she just packed a few things so it would be easy for her to alight, Once she reached her destination.

CHAPTER TWO

A GRAND AUDITION

In the grand mansion of his estate, billionaire patriarch Julian Blackwood leaned back in his favorite chair. A masterpiece of craftsmanship. The upholstery was a sumptuous velvet in a deep, jewel toned emerald green, with subtle patterns woven into the fabric. It’s very presence elevating the surrounding space to a level of refined sophistication. Sited next to him was the heir of the business empire. The Blackwood empire. A conglomerate with diverse interests in industries such as finance, real estate, technology and luxury goods. Anthony Blackwood. His chiseled features and piercing blue eyes commanding attention. His dark hair styled perfectly framed his sharp jawline and accentuated his lips. He exuded confidence and charisma. He seemed to own the room, his air of quiet authority and sophistication making him impossible to ignore. Approaching from the mansions staircase is Anthony’s mother, Katherine Blackwood her presence electrifying. soon she joins in. The air of the mansion was thick with tension with each splitting seconds. Despite its opulence, the mansion felt deserted, it’s silence a heavy blanket that suffocated the space. It was as if the walls held secrets and stories, but refused to share them, leaving only an eerie quietness that seemed to reverberate through every room.

The mansions grandeur soon faded into the background as they focused on the future of their dynasty. Julian Blackwood fixed his eyes intently on his son as he broached the subject that had been weighing on his mind for some time now.

He cleared his throat, and looked towards Anthony’s direction and began speaking, "This empire was started off by Blackwood I, who happened to be your great grand Dad. Over the years it has been passed down successively. Your mother birthed you, and gave us an heir to the dynasty. You are well aware that my days are slowly winding up Anthony. I want you to settle down, get married to a suitable woman and give me a grandson to inherit the blackwood legacy. I want to be reassured of that before my time reaches."

Anthony’s expression remained neutral, but Mr Blackwood could sense a flicker of hesitation behind his eyes. Mr Blackwood with a more serious intensity lifted his gaze once again. "It’s not a request Anthony if you fail to comply I’d strip you off your shares in the company as well as other assets. You know what I can do". His words dripping with conviction.

I understand your concerns father but I’d like to choose my own partner. Anthony responded in a polished accent." I don’t trust your judgement Anthony, Julian Blackwood cut in. I have a business partner who has a very beautiful, charming and ambitious daughter I could talk to him so you two gets introduced".

I would figure that out myself Dad. He gave his father a piercing look. And stormed out of the mansion. Katherine Blackwood who hadn’t uttered a single word, exclaimed, "Anthony!!" Almost out of breadth.

As Anthony stormed out of his father’s mansion the cool evening air did liitle to temper his frustration. He was met by his loyal assistant, Jenkins, who stood discreetly by his side, awaiting instructions. "Sir, may I take your suit?" Jenkins asked, his voice calm and professional. Anthony handed over the suit, his mind still reeling from the argument with his father. Jenkins arrange for the car, I need to get out of here. Yes sir replied Jenkins. His sleek black car soon pulled over and Jenkins opened the door for him. As he slid into the luxurious interior, the soft leather enveloped him, providing a moment of respite from his frustration. Pull over to the royal street Wilson I’d like to go to the bar there. Yes Mr Blackwood Wilson replied hastily….

As soon as they got to the entrance of the bar, Wilson parked the car at a suitable corner, his assistant rushed out of the car to open the door for him. As Anthony stepped out of the car his tall and huge appearance caused quite a stir for people leaving the bar. Upon entering the bar all eyes were fixed on him. He put on a shade to disguise his looks but that didn’t help either, his presence commanded attention as his piercing gaze scanned the room as well as his well tailored suit which accentuated his broad shoulders. The bartender who was a middle aged lady could not get a hold of herself. She had never seen such a good looking man in her life. he is surely the finest in his days she said to herself.

He ordered for the most expensive wine and issued a check to the bartender at the spot. She thought to herself" oh he must be very wealthy to buy such luxury". He checked the time on his Rolex watch.” he always arrives late” he mumbled to himself while waiting for his cousin to arrive. Antony and his cousin, Richard were very close. They grew up together and shared thoughts and concerns. Richard was his only confidant. Richard arrived at the bar a few minuites later. He was a replica of Anthony, but instead of giving off a serious presence, he gave off a more cheerful aura. As soon as he caught sight of Anthony, he exclaimed. Here is the almighty blackwood! with a cheerful smile. You sure make certain I wait for you. Replied Anthony. Join me on some Chateau Margaux would you? "oh I sure would love a cold one, on a cozy evening" He said with his eyes sparkling.

So what is it this time? Asked Richard. Let me guess, some hot newbie comes to your office or you would love to get a recent design of the limited edition of Stuart Weitzman’s shoes, or there’s a new proposal to expand the production market? Which one?

Nothing of that sought Richard. This is a much more pressing issue. Richard soon calmed down to listen. I have to get married and birth an heir to inherit the dynasty, Rich. If not I could loose everthing. With a shocking expression Richard replied "What!!".. Yes Rich, Dad is gradually becoming an autocrat. "Waao, Julian is sure one crackhead" Richard said almost jokingly..

Have you any suggestion Rich? As to where and how to get a wife? “There are very many beautiful girls out there who would literally die to be your wife, Tony”. Richard said in a very serious tone. I am well aware of that Rich, but Most of them are only attracted to my looks or my money. I want something different and sincere. That’s the difficult path. Anthony said with a frustrated tone.

" I think I have a plan tony! " "Which is?" You have to make this go big and explore the options of meeting ladies from across regions. Anthony adjusted himself a little on his sit. And how do I go about it. He reacted. Its simple tony, organize an audition the world has never known before….wait what? Anthony let out a cough. “A maid audition?" To find a wife? Anthony asked, incredulous. If you organize an audition for a wife, so many things could go wrong tony. But for a maid you’d take time to properly access character.

Anthony pondered over Richard’s words, weighing the pros and cons. He had given up on traditional dating and tired of superficial connections. The idea of finding someone genuine, someone who saw beyond his wealth and title, intrigued him. Soon he decided to buy Richards idea, afterall it wouldn’t cost a dime." Not a bad idea Rich." He spoke, a little easy this time. " I’d have the secretary of the board make preparations". Leave that to me Tony. I would handle everything and make sure all is in place. Thanks Rich. Anything for you Tony. After series of conversations and laugher they stepped out of the bar and went their separate ways.

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Veeyah had been hiding quietly in the carriage for weeks, avoiding detection as it traveled to New Orleans .They made a few stops at several road marks but she remained at her spot almost suffocating she ran out of bread a few days back but she held on. Her hope unwavering. She thought of the fact that she could never return home without something tangible she had given them all the promises. Making use of a Compass, she knew she had gotten to her destination. She waited for the perfect moment to slip out unnoticed. The Carriage slowed down and Veeyah seized her chance. Carefully opening the door and stepping down into the cobblestone street. She melted into the shadows, disappearing into the city.

Veeyah’s eyes adjusted gradually to the vibrant cityscape of New Orleans. The sound, smells and sights overwhelmed her senses as she took in the historic architecture and lively atmosphere of the space. She saw people from different walks of lives living their lives and not giving a care in the world. The sky was so bright and colorful she taught to herself. She felt something she had never felt before freedom..the citys aura gave her the feeling of freedom. Freedom to become whatever she wanted to do what she wanted to dance to screem to laugh to play..but it was all in her head….she suddenly approached a glassy door of a café and looked at her reflection she let out a frown once she saw what she looked like….she looked a mess she said to herself remembering she hadn’t had time to take care of herself properly for weeks.

The audition was only in two days’ time. It was going to last for a week. It soon reached the ears of the entire city of New Orleans and got to the news also. However the invite was well regulated to avoid excess crowd. literally everyone in the city was talking about it. It was going to take place at the Blackwoods theatre, At the centre of the city. The entrance with an intricate carving “Blackwood” was decorated in a polished wooden style . At the front of the theatre was a fancy swimming pool which resonated the place with its blue lightening at night . The theatre had a very spacious interior. It was built with perfect architecture and art. All thanks to Anthony Blackwood, It had a refined taste. Its tall building and magnificence was the heartbeat of the city especially at night.

Getting a taxi was no small job for veeyah, although she could understand and speak a little English. The accent used was very strange to her. She had no choice than to blend in. She finally found a taxi man that could understand her. So she handed over the letter to him to read for himself. "Oh!" He said the grand audition organized by the Blackwood dynasty…

"Oh I know the place its at Rue Royale and Toulouse street. That would cost you 50 dollars Ma’am." Veeyah tilted her head in disappointment as she had no such money. She smiled at the taxi driver and he was moved to tell her to come in.

Veeyah stepped out of the Taxi and thanked the driver immensely for taking her to her destination. Immediately she lifted her gaze she was amazed by the tall and captivating building in front of her. She never knew they existed in real life. As she approached the entrance she looked up to the sky and whispered to herself “ New hopes open new doors” and patted her shoulders. Taking a deep breath she entered the reception hall. The receptionist signaled her to take a sit. And she found herself sitted in the midst of two rather smallish women. Veeyah didn’t get to look at them properly but from the side of her eyes she could tell they were really attractive and from wealthy homes. Distracted by the aesthetics of the hall, the fresh scent and how clean and polished every corner was, Veeyah was forced to maintain composure. “Veeyah Gonzales you may now proceed”, Veeyah was awakened by the sound of her name called out very loudly. She noticed that the space was cleared and it was left with the receptionists. She walked slowly towards the reception counter. The red haired lady looked at her briefly. And asked her, do you speak English? With a british accent. "Yes I do". Veeyah said surprised at how swiftly the word came out. "A certain Ramos, got you registered for the audition at our Zonal office at Hotel du belle, after which he was given an invite. Do you have it with you"…" yes" replied Veeyah, handing the letter over to her. Alright she collected it and took a quick glance at it after which she told veeyah to sign on some documents. After signing, the red haired lady gave her an audition number, and directed her to an entrance leading her to her designated room.

Veeyah was stunned at how organized the whole place was. She was scared to open the door to her room and only placed her hands on the door knob but got pushed aside by a chubby lady who opened the door rather swiftly and looked at her sternly." aren’t you coming in? or should I lock the door?" She said while giving her a disdainful look. That was when Veeyah realized that she was actually here for a competition. Not just for an appealing sightseeing. She walked in slowly and saw another lady comfortably doing yoga in the room. "This is a really large room for only three people to stay in. She thought to herself. Veeyah took a while to settle in. Gently approaching her bed she drooped her pouch. She could feel the reproachful look of her roommates as if scanning her soul and questioning where she came from. She felt a little embarrased But she didn’t bother because the delight of the place took over whatever she felt. She was overwhelmed and headed to the restroom.

The night had set in fully, Veeyah soon opened her eyes slowly as she woke up to the sound of loud voices on speakers. “ Welcome all 5000 contestants from across various regions to the very first maid audition organized by the blackwood empire and hope you all are settling quite well, you may now proceed to the dining rooms where you would be given the best treats in preparation for tommorrow’s grand audition. "Do enjoy yourself. Welcome once again" . Soon the sound of closed doors reverberated the air as young maidens from all walks of life walked stylishly in to the Dining hall. Different races, tribe and language embodying different style and fashion. The ladies had a combination of Tall, Short, Average, Curvy, Skinny, Slim fit, Caramel, Dark , White, Yellow or Red features . You could tell they came prepared.

Veeyah decided to step out of her room until the coast