GENEROUS OFFER

GENEROUS OFFER
Chapter 40

ROYANNA

Three days into our short freedom from being warriors and I could proudly say, we were making the best of it.

After our market escapade on the first day, we met Elena, a pure and lovely soul. We explored other parts of the village and though not everyone was welcoming, it was so much better than Stone Peak.

These people didn't hate me, maybe because they aren't aware of the powers I possess, but at least, they didn't treat me differently for having an appearance that they are not familiar with. To my luck, I wasn't having any visions or dreams either, as though coming to Frost Vale stole that attribute away.

Putting aside my past experiences, I chose to enjoy this new side of my life, despite being nothing but a tool to the king and kingdom. I had found friends, admiration, happiness, laughter, and appreciation.

What else could I ask for?

It wasn't the ideal life I imagined for myself, but I would have been really glad if I could share my experience with Orphelia, to tell her that I was happy and I made friends, played the harp and an entire village appreciated it.

Hopefully seeing such a message from me would keep her happy always.

“Hey, Royanna. Are you coming for supper?” Clio's voice tore through my thoughts and I looked up from my hands to stare at her. I had been in my room all day, just rewinding on the past days and getting some much-needed rest.

“Yes, I am starving,” I said and stood up, grabbing her hand.

We walked out of our quarters, heading to the dining room. “Are you okay?” Clio asked, squeezing my hand as she glanced at me.

I smiled and nodded, “Why do you ask?”

“You seem quiet today, lost in your thoughts. I have been watching you all day, you didn't speak much either.”

“I am just happy.” I placed my hand over her shoulder, “You don't need to worry about me. I am actually having the best time of my life, with the best people.”

Clio flashed her tooth in a wide smile, “Well, now I can rest easy, knowing you are okay.”

I pinched her cheek and she gasped, nudging me with her shoulder. “You…”

I pushed her with my hip and ran off, “Hey, get back here,” she yelled behind me, and I heard her footsteps racing to catch up.

I giggled, picking up my pace to evade her. We arrived at the space and joined Benedict and Jira giggling. Thankfully they had helped us secure a bowl of rice and beef chunks sprinkled in it.

“Have you heard, Royanna?” Jira leaned in and whispered, while directing her finger to the other table.

I raised my eyebrows, also leaning, “What is it?”

“Susan said there's a small celebration happening in the village, it's a ritual function held by the people to appreciate a good year. She's going with the others, and is inviting us to join.” Jira explained and I retracted, narrowing my eyes.

“But it's late at night. I don't think our freedom stretches that far. It's too dangerous?” I shook my head, cocking my head to stare at Clio and Benedict.

They didn't seem as flustered as I was. “We have that much freedom Royanna.” Benedict defended, taking me by surprise.

“You already spoke about this, haven't you?” I asked and Clio reached for my hand. “Remember I said you had been lost all day. We wanted to tell you about it, so we agreed to do it during supper.”

I sighed, folding my arms. “It doesn't change the fact that this is dangerous. I mean, who permitted late-night movements? I know for sure our commander isn't that generous.”

Jira chuckled, all smiles, “Well, she actually permitted us to leave. It's really nothing to worry about Royanna. Even Kithara is going.” Jira pointed to the other end of the room where Kithara sat with a bunch of others.

Seeing the joyful faces around me, I couldn't think of any further arguments. Clearly, everyone is excited to be permitted access to a celebration at the village, even though it didn't sit well with me.

Something just wasn't right with this ease, or maybe it's all in my head and I am just worrying for no reason.

“Royanna.” Benedict touched my shoulder, “It's okay if you don't want to go. We can all stay in and do something else. We still have a few more days to enjoy our freedom.”

“No.” I shook my head in disagreement, “Your plans cannot change because of me. I won't have that.”

“I am all in.” I said, and the girls cheered, “I hope it's worth it.” I added, still skeptical about this arrangement.

“I know exactly what we should wear.” Clio clapped her hands, all giddy. “The dresses Elena gifted us.”

“Well Clio, it's actually the only dress we have.” Jira chimed in with a teasing tone and we all burst out laughing.

“I think they are going to be our favourite dresses,” I remarked, and another round of laughter erupted from us.

After supper, we returned to our quarters to get dressed for the celebration. I slid into my dress and Clio helped me with the ropes to tighten the dress’s corset and make it a pe
rfect fit for my body.

As soon as we were done, we headed out.