The Witch's Daughter and the Rogue Lord

The Heat

The long train of my mother’s red dress spins slowly around her as she dances in elegant circles. Her jet-black hair flowing in the same way. As she spins, her arms stretch out to either side of her. Mother snaps and twirls her fingers. Tiny sparks escape the end of her fingertips. She snaps again and the sparks become flames. The room lights up as the flames grow larger. I can hear her faint laughter.

My small hands clap together as giggles push from my stomach. I loved Mothers magic tricks. The flames die down as she turns to give me a smile. However, to my great disappointment, Mothers face bore no smile. Nor any type of expression. In fact, Mothers features were gone entirely. I can feel the happiness drain from me as my faceless mother c***s her head at me. “Lii?” a ghost of a voice echoes.

Father enters, as he always does after mother’s magic. His face as bare as hers. Father was a very tall man, or at least in this memory he was. His hair was the same as mine. Pale brown, the color of sand, and thick. I could hear a jolly laugh. Father turns to Mother and embraces her. I feel a disturbing warmth as my faceless parents’ hug. My father’s arm extends, welcoming me into the embrace. I do not immediately oblige. “Lii?” The ghost’s voices are in unison.

 I do not resist any longer. I jump into my father’s arms. They are warm and safe. That feeling has not changed. I breath in deep to smell amber and cherries. Yes, this is also the same. I can feel Mother wrap her other arm around me too. She is even warmer. I breath in again. Fathers scent is now joined by the smell of roses. I feel my smile return. This is also familiar. “We love you Lii.”

My eyelids flutter to help my eyes adjust. The bright sun was very unforgiving to my vision. I cover my eyes with my forearm, letting my other arm reach up for a good stretch. I stay on the ground for a moment. The shady tree I chose for a nap no longer hid the sun. I groan realizing I slept longer than I intended. 

I take a quick look around, to see if I had been discovered. I see my berry basket, undisturbed, sitting a few feet away. Other than that, I was alone. This was normal though. Few people enjoyed the walk out of the forest and to this meadow. The path offered many good finds, including a variation of berries and mushrooms.

I brushed my hair back, my fingers getting caught in the mess of tangles. For a moment I worry whether my appearance is alarming or not, but then I remember my dream. My parents’ faces were no longer an accessible memory. They had begun to blur over the years, but never gone altogether. I suppose it was bound to happen. I have nothing left of them.  Nothing but my memories and even those were slowly leaving me.

I push myself up off the ground, brushing off dirt and leaves. Today I wore my brown dress. Nothing special about it. Dirt brown, with the sleeves rolled up to my elbows. I also wore my apron still from when I helped with breakfast. I took in a deep breath then released it as I picked up my basket and turned toward the trail.

My thoughts tried to rush back to my earliest memories. But they were all very brief moments with my parents. My longer memories are mostly here at Castle Lourach. Most of the bad ones come early. Lord Dragg of Castle Lourach did his best to shield me from news of my parents. I always heard anyways. Somehow my parents were a part of a traitorous plan to dethrone our King Olchadair Reilach and were executed for it. King Reilach had changed my mothers sentence though. She was executed for witchcraft.

I think on it no longer and focus on getting back. Making my way out of the forest, I see the fence along the road. I walk up the hill to find two young ladies hunkered down by some bushes, shamelessly whispering. As I approach, I can deduce that these two silly women are none other than Angie Lance and Rachel Smith. I tend to call them my friends, though in moments like these I do withdraw. I shake my head at them. “My my my.” They both gasp and turn to me quickly. Angie stands and stomps her foot, “Lii! Oh, you mean mean girl.” “Shush!” Rachel hushes Angie and pulls her back down. “Lii get down now! He will see you!” I do as I am told and duck behind the bush with my silly friends. “Whom may I ask is the object of this ridiculous spying?” I giggle, peeking through the leaves. All I could make out was Old Thomas and his cart of grain. I push some more leaves. I can now see he is speaking to someone. “I don’t really know.” Rachel answers plainly. “We saw him approaching Old Thomas. Oh, Lii he is very handsome.” “Delightfully so!” Angie adds. “His eyes! They pierced my heart!” We all giggle at this silly over exaggeration. But now I am more determined to see. I stand straight up. Angie gasps. “Lii!” I shrug, “Well I'm not going to get a good view from here! We might as well while Old Thomas is near to introduce us. Come!” I pull on Angie, Rachel had no trouble getting up.

With my arm interlocked with Angie's and Rachel leading the way, we headed towards Old Thomas and the handsome stranger in question. Upon approaching, I can admire the gentlemen's backside. He was much taller than Old Thomas and far better dressed. He wore a long black cloak, that looked exceptionally fine. He had dark hair tucked behind his ears. But damn he would not turn so I could assess these apparent piercing eyes.

Rachel made it to the men first and loudly cleared her throat. Old Thomas and the man turn. I feel a warmth deep in my chest flood up to my cheeks as the stranger reveals his face. Pale blue eyes meet mine. His full lips part in a soft smile. This man was beautiful. His jaw was sharp and clean shaved, beautifully displaying his large smile. His eyelids, half closed, giving off a sleepy, yet sultry gaze. He seemed so clean too. I then realize my stare has kept his for an uncomfortable amount of time. I curtsy at the strange beauty, causing both girls to do the same. Old Thomas suddenly remembers common etiquette. “Ah yes. Sir allow me to introduce Rachel Smith, daughter of the Castles stablemaster. Then over there is Angie Lance, her father was the blacksmith over there and um this is Lii.” The man nodded and smiled graciously at both my friends, causing sweet sighs from them both. But he gave a confused nod towards me. “Lii? Just-” “Yes sir. Just Lii will do fine.” I answered before anyone else could. He did not immediately answer. A wide smile spreads across his face. “Well. Very well. Lovely to meet you all ladies. My name is Ferron.” I raise my eyebrows. “Just Ferron?” His cheeks redden slightly as his large smile parts into a toothy grin. “Yes, milady.”

I can feel Angie’s elbow dig into my ribs. Rachel brushes her hair back. “Well, Ferron, whatever brings you to Castle Lourach?” Angie lets go of my arm to go stand next to Rachel. I’m suddenly reminded of the berry basket in my hand and of the pie I had promised to make of them. I can hear the others conversing. “Forgive me for my sudden departure, I must get to the Castle. Good evening, Thomas, ladies.” I turn my gaze to Ferron, the handsome stranger. “Very good meeting you sir.” He bows politely before turning his attention back to Rachel. The heat in my chest endures.

I hum quietly to myself as I walk up the lonely hill to the castle. It wasn’t a dreadfully long walk. I did enjoy taking my time though. Enjoying the silence. Appreciating the birds singing. The wind blowing a cool breeze over me. I close my eyes. I hum a bit louder. It’s a lullaby. I can never remember the words. But I remember my mother singing it to me.

My eyes shoot open as I hear a step behind me. I turn quickly. I see large hands shoot up in surrender. “Forgive me, milady, I didn’t mean to startle you. “Ferron’s soft voice came. “No need. Can I help you sir?” I look around to see if he had anyone with him. It seems we were alone. I feel my chest tighten. He nods and smiles. “Yes, I need to see the stablemaster. Miss Smith said he works at the Castle until dark.” I also nod. “Indeed, he does. I can show you there, Sir.” I gesture towards the castle and we both begin walking towards it.

Castle Lourach sat on top of a large hill. Around the castle were green fields, perfect for the Lords many horses. The castle itself was small, for a castle, but still large, nonetheless. Vines clung to the castle walls; I honestly love that most. Its lovely to see the plant life cling to something.

I can see Ferron look down at me several times. I finally look up to meet his gaze. “Are you staying long or just passing through? "I ask to end the silence. He thinks a moment. “I’m not really sure yet. I’ll stay a few nights at least.” He offers no more of an explanation. “So, you live at the Castle? Do you work there?” I giggle quietly but nod. “Yes. I’ve lived here since I was a child. Not much adventure happens here. How about you sir? How exciting is your life?” I watch his eyes fill with thought. My heated heart pounded in my chest as his eyes caught mine. “A very fair amount of exciting milady.” His dashing smile spread wide. “I have almost travelled the entire continent.” My eyes widen at the thought of such a young man being already so well-travelled. “Really? How very accomplished of you. How far have you been?” I try not to sound too eager to hear. Ferron leans in, close enough for me to take in a quick breath. He smells musky from the heat, but in a very pleasant way. I can feel the heat in my face as well as my chest now.

“All the way to Baanray Coast. Then also towards Haydes Peak. I haven't tried the swamps, however. Nothing ever that appealing about swamps. Save for the monsters in the water.... but I'm not too keen on fighting beasties.” Ferron scratches his chin. “But maybe one day, when I've been everywhere else, ill brave the swamp and all her monsters.” I feel a stab of jealousy. I have not left this village in the thirteen years I've lived here. I never had a craving to travel, but I did wonder about the outside world. “Travelling must be dangerous even without swamp monsters. What profession do you have sir that permits you such adventure?” Ferron lets out a soft, but hearty laugh. “No, forgive me Milady. I do not mean to laugh. I have no profession. I was lucky to be born under a wealthy merchant. My father's money is at my disposal.” I snicker at this almost arrogant statement. He seems to have caught on and clears his throat. “I travel for my father's business, Milady. In return I receive a salary. When my father passes on, as most do, I will inherit his trade. So, he figured he would start teaching me the work at a young age. I’ve been travelling since I was sixteen.” I smile gently. “Would you say you are content with this travelling and trading?” He chuckles again. “I feel like I've been very lucky, yes. I get to see the most beautiful sights. Meet the most fascinating people. See the most beautiful people.”

I sense his gaze linger on me. I feel as though I should be sweating with how warm I feel. I try to bush off this statement and continue to keep my eyes forward. “Well, I would imagine so. The world Is a very big place. There are bound to be countless beauties.” My self-consciousness gets the better of me, but I keep my shoulders high. He still stares at me. I decide to challenge this stare and turn my head to him. I can hear my heart in my ears. He is no longer smiling. His sleepy gaze was now lowered into a sultry stare.

I do my best to calm my breathing. I push my hair back and pull my eyes away. “Really sir-” “Ferron.” He interrupts. “What?” I turn my eyes back to him and frown. He is all smiles again. “You can call me Ferron. You don’t have to call me sir.” I raise my eyebrows. “Does it bother you?” “Not at all.” He quickly answers. “It's just very formal and I don’t really feel like...” He leans in, his hand reaches up to my face. I hold my breath as he softly brushes a hair behind my ear” being formal.” Our eyes are locked again. The blue of his piercing through my chest. I felt like grabbing his hair and pulling him into my lips. Yet a big part of me knows I shouldn’t trust a strange man.

I look down, breaking our intense stare. Ferron takes a few steps back. “Forgive me, Milady-” “Lii.” I add quickly. I look back up at him. His smile stays, though it is much softer. I smile as well. “Really though, Ferron, are you some grand seducer of women?” He tries to hold back a laugh but fails. “Well, perhaps a bit. But I wouldn’t say grand.”

We both let silence take over for a moment. Continuing our walk but enjoying the peace. I steal a peek up at him. He could not be any more than in his mid-twenties. His skin looked so smooth, much to smooth for a traveler. I bit my lip as I lingered on his sharp jaw. The heat grew in me as the urges told me to trace my tongue along it.

I jerked my head away. I felt a drop of sweat drip down my temple. If I kept this up id be a puddle by the time, we reach the castle. I cleared my throat. “So, what does your mother think of your travelling?” I can see Ferron scratch his head. “She didn’t really like it at first. Called my father a monster for even suggesting it. She wailed as I rode off the first time. Coming home was always wonderful. It would feel like I never left. Over the years, she didn’t complain so much.” Ferron's kind smile disappears for a moment. “She passed two summers ago.” Without much thought, I grab his hand. His hand is much larger than mine. They are rough, yet warm. He squeezes. “My world isn't as bright without her. But I’ve learned to accept it.” I nod, understanding more than he knows. “I’m sorry Ferron. I lost my own parents too. You said it perfectly. My world isn't as bright either.”

A strange look overtakes him. “I’m sorry as well, Lii.” I nod and smile, gesturing for us to continue. Ferron seems to be in thought. I decide not to disturb him and just continue in silence.

“Ferron?” I say softly. “Hhhm?” He looks down at me and his wide smile returns. I point to the stable to the left of the castle gates. “Mr. Smith will be just in there. Do you need me to make introductions?” He shakes his head. “No need. Thank you very much for your company, Lii. I do still apologize for being so ….forward. However,...” His eyes take a quick glance at my mouth then back up to my eyes. He suddenly has an invasive thought. Ferron looks away. I do not wait for more of an explanation. “You are forgiven, Ferron. Think nothing of it. If your business keeps you in town for a while perhaps, we can talk more.” He quickly turns back to me. I smile and it is quickly returned. “I’d very much enjoy that, Lii.”

Castle Lourach was not as grand as most Lords castles.  Lord Dragg Lourach said his great grandfather had built the stone hold. Each Lord that had inherited it had improved and expanded upon it. Dragg's addition was the large stable grounds. He is so fond of horses that he wanted to have several roaming around the castle. But the castle is a practical one. Minimal decoration around the rooms, with portraits and torches lining the halls.

The dining hall was the largest and most grand room in this castle. Every night it was filled with many of the villagers. Everyone keeping in good company and dining together. It wasn’t rare for me and Dragg to dine alone, we both just enjoyed the joy of extra company.

Dragg was the best company though. He had been my guardian these past 13 years, and dearest companion. When I first came to the castle things weren't easy. His wife at the time, Elenore, did not understand why he felt the need to care for me, a child who was outcast. She was kind, but she was nowhere near loving. They share a son that is my age, Erik. He wasn’t so fond of me either. I blushed thinking of him. I hadn't seen him in years now, but I had such an attraction for him that I'm sure he didn’t feel for me.

Elenore and Dragg's marriage deteriorated a few years after I moved in. They peacefully agreed to a separation. But Dragg was happy. He would see Erik often until he joined the king’s army. Dragg hasn’t seen his son in several years now, but he writes to him often. I don’t think he is lonely though. He has me.

Tonight, Dragg asked that I join him and another Lord for dinner. He seemed nervous about it, though it was common for us to dine alone with other Lords. Not all of them enjoyed the appeal of eating with peasants. Dragg insisted I still be treated like a Lady, though I was not truly his daughter only the poor ward he took in out of pity, or so the other Lords whisper. All our guests respect, and fear, Dragg too much to slight me. At least in front of him.

I walk into the kitchen. Mrs. Crach, the ever-loyal head housekeeper of the castle, turns away from one of the ovens and smiles. “Good afternoon Lii. I didn’t think it would take all day to find a basket full of berries.” I can see the many lines of her face fold up with her happy expression. I clear my throat. “The bushes did not yield as many as last week.” She shakes her head as she turns back toward her work. “You better get to work on that pie then. You’re going to need a bath before tonight. Dragg had a new dress made for you, you know? Ach, I keep telling him not to bother. With all that dirt and twigs in your hair it'll be like putting a dress on a donkey.” I gasp and giggle at this. “My my my Mrs. Crach.” Her head snaps to me. Her face now wears a nervous expression. “Go on now get to work.”

I clap my hands together after I sit my sweet little pie gently in the oven. I nod my head with approval at the pale crust with a decorative rose sitting atop it. “There. The prettiest pie I'll ever make.” Mrs. Crach doesn’t bother to turn around from her cooking. “To be sure. Now go to your room. I didn’t have time to warm a bath, so a quick wash will have to do.” I smile at the wonder that is Mrs. Crach. She keeps this castle running and though she is very critical, she is one of my greatest companions. “Very well. It really is a shame I can't have a warm bath. I’ll freeze my breasts off-” “Lii! Child, please-” “Oh hush Mrs. Crach... I may look like a donkey, but I promise I won't make an ass of myself.” I give my old friend a wink while she rests her hand on her beating chest.

I quickly wiped myself down after undressing. The new dress rested delicately on my bed. It was a dark yellow color with much brighter, golden shade tracing the trim. I felt my teeth grind when I saw the corset. I was used to wearing corsets, but this corset had several more holes than my normal corset.

I pulled my slip over my head. I begin to dig through my clothes chest for my corset. I soon discover this act is all in vain. Mrs. Crach pushes passed the heavy door of my room, carrying a basket of oils. “Gods child, what are you doing?” I stood quickly. “Where is my corset?” She gestures towards the bed. I shake my head. “No. MY corset.” Mrs. Crach huffs, rolls her eyes, then marches towards me. “Ach, THAT corset was tossed into the fireplace. You’ve worn that old thing for far too long. You are a young lady now. It is time for a more proper corset.”

My nose shrivels at her. But despite my protest, I do not fight the matter. I allow myself to be dressed and my breathing tortured as the cruel Mrs. Crach tightens my waist. After that, Mrs. Crach sees to my hair. When I have it down it goes to the small of my back. Mrs. Crach pins up my mess of sandy hair. Some hairs escape and land on my face, I brush them out of my eyes.

I watch her old hands at work. She doesn’t seem to want to talk. Normally we are both teasing each other but she is oddly silent. “Mrs. Crach? Do you know which Lord is coming? Dragg hasn’t said much to me.” She shoots me a worried look. “No, I-I don’t think my Lord mentioned a name.” I raise my eyebrows. “Oh?” She nods then backs away. “Go look at yourself Lii. It's some of my best work I dare say.”

I turn towards the mirror. My freckled face perfectly framed by the fringe of my hair. Some waves fell out of place, but still managed to seem elegant. I smile. I do look pretty. The dress hugged my torso tightly, forcing a large cleavage upwards. I see the blush in my cheeks. I was half tempted to make a joke about everyone seeing my n*****s, but I don’t want to mention my bosom twice in one evening. It wouldn’t encourage originality.

Mrs. Crach giggled. “There now. Certainly, no donkey now, Milady.” I rolled my eyes. I hated that. She knew I was not hers, nor anyone's Lady. I was never sure why everyone insisted on making me feel as if I were. Maybe Dragg didn’t want me to feel stripped of my namesake. We all knew that what I felt went beyond a title.

The old woman smacked my padded bottom. I jump. "My my my, Mrs. Crach. How very inappropriate.” Her eyes roll. “You need to get moving. I must get back to the kitchen, I left Cynthia in charge, and you know her. Head always somewhere else...” Mrs. Crach continued to rant but I was suddenly lost in a thought.

I normally know who is coming to dinner. Not that I ever ask, but they usually talk nonstop about it. Dragg tells me everything whether I ask or not. I did not like the thought of secrets being kept, especially from me. I look at Mrs. Crach. She is fluffing the train of my dress out. “Mrs. Crach?” She nods and gestures towards the door. “Yes, child, ask me on the way down.” I don’t move. “Do you really not know who is coming?” My dear old friend looks away. Her mouth opens twice. But also closes twice. Finally, she says. “Please Lii lets go.”

I feel a knot in my stomach. Mrs. Crach and I walked in silence down the stairs and silently we parted at the dining hall entrance. What was he keeping from me? I could see Dragg now. He’s standing in front of the fireplace at the very back of the dining hall. One hand pressed to his head, the other holding his ale. I take a deep breath before making my way toward my guardian. My heels click loudly on the stone floor. Dragg hears at once and turns to me. He smiles.

I stop. He is very much the same Dragg he has always been, though much larger in the waist and rounder in the face. His kind eyes filled with joy at the sight of his now grown ward. I’d swear this is what a proud parent looks like. My jaw softens. This man could never have ill intentions towards me, could he?

“Oh, my dear lass, look at you!” His voice booms and echoes in the hall. “Now this is a ladies dress! Very regal, like a princess I dare say. Do you like it lass?” I resist the urge to smile. “It's very pretty. Thank you Dragg.” He frowns. “Aye, what's bothering you? Do you not like the new corset?” “Dragg! Please do not just say corsets to me!” I feel my cheeks blush. He looks confused. “Really now lass I'm practically a father...figure to you.” He added quickly. I roll my eyes. I couldn’t deny he was the closest thing I had to one. I sigh. “I know and the dress is fine and so is the.... corset. It's something else.”

Dragg clicks his tongue, as if he already knew what I was bothered by. But he said nothing. I sigh again. “Who is coming to dinner Dragg?” He turns back towards the fire, taking a big chug of ale.” I told you, didn’t I?’ I feel my face heat. I took a deep breath and hoped the anger would leave with it.” You know you didn’t Dragg. I have a feeling it was on purpose. Mrs. Crach wouldn’t tell me either.” He didn’t say anything. “Dragg, why can't I know?” “You’ll meet him soon enough lass just calm down.” My face grows even hotter. I feel my chest puffing. “Answer me.” “No. You don’t give the orders here lass. Go find your place at the table.” I can hear the anger in his voice as well. “It's a simple question. A name will suffice, Dragg I am not asking a hard question. Who is coming to dinner!?” I shout at the back of his head, but it is quickly replaced by the front. His eyes no longer kind, but furious. I stand my ground.

With my head held high I stare up at the large man. My protector, so I thought. He looks as if he could scream. His face red and his brow furrowed. I had no right or place to shout at my Lord. I was not truly his child. We both jump as the large hall doors open.

Mrs. Crach stood there, face pale as a ghost. She clears her throat and announces. “My Lord Dragg Lourach of Castle Lourach, I present Lord Ferron Dellagashe of Castle....Gastion.” My stomach drops as I see my new acquaintance walk in. He is smiling widely until our eyes meet. I feel the heat rising in my chest yet again, but with a different emotion. My hands begin to shake as I hear Mrs. Crachs voice in my head. Lord Ferron Dellagashe of Castle Gastion.

Ferron stare wide eyed at me. Dragg sighs. “Lord Dellagashe, may I present my ward? This is Liilianna Gastion, formerly of Castle Gastion.”