Oak And Mist (The Ambeth Chronicles Book 1) (21 page)

‘If you’ll excuse me, Lady Alma, I will see you tomorrow,’ said Deryck, bowing to her before leaving to follow his father to the doors. The knot of girls, throwing furious glances at Alma, moved in his wake.

Alma was still standing in the same spot when Caleb found her a moment later.

‘Are you all right?’ he asked, looking at her curiously.

‘What? Yes, er, I’m fine thanks,’ said Alma, still distracted. ‘Are you?’

Caleb grinned. ‘All fixed up.’ He turned to show her his shoulder. The marks were almost gone, just faded pink lines. Alma’s eyes opened wide.

‘Wow. So was this, um, Marlin?’

‘Yes, he’s a Healer. A pretty good one, too. So, um, hey, I was thinking, I’m going to get changed and then perhaps we could-’

‘Sorry Caleb,’ said Alma, her cheeks flushing hot. ‘I just think I need to go home now. I’m pretty tired.’ Caleb’s face dropped.

‘Why not just stay?’ he asked, frowning. ‘Your room is ready, and I’ll make sure you get to the Gate in the morning, I promise.’

But Alma shook her head. ‘I really just need to go home for a while,’ she said, hoping he would understand. Apart from the fact that she was exhausted, she needed to have some time alone, to think about what had just happened. She couldn’t discuss it with Caleb – what she needed was the peace and sanctuary of her own bed where she could go over and over again what Deryck had said and how he had said it.
He had asked her to dance!

‘But you’ll definitely be back tomorrow, won’t you? For the celebration?’ pressed Caleb, his pleasant face hopeful. ‘It’s for the Feast Day, as well as the Sword,’ he went on. ‘So you need to be here.’

Alma nodded her head. ‘Sure, I mean, yes, of course I’ll be here. Wouldn’t miss it.’

‘Good,’ said Caleb, smiling into her eyes. Then, as she tried unsuccessfully to conceal a yawn, he sighed.

‘Come on then,’ he said reluctantly, shaking his head as he looked at Alma. ‘I’ll take you to the Gate, but you should let Thorion know you’re going.’

‘Thanks, Caleb,’ said Alma, stifling another yawn. She really was tired. Linking her arm with his, she smiled gratefully at him as they moved through the crowd to find Thorion.

***

Denoris and Deryck walked through the fragrant gardens in the fading light, Deryck trailing his hand along the hedges, deep in thought.

‘I saw you speaking with the girl,’ said Lord Denoris with a smile, his voice unusually warm. ‘It seems your plan is working after all.’

‘Her name is Alma,’ replied Deryck, feeling the need to defend her in some obscure way.

Lord Denoris looked sharply at his son. ‘Don’t tell me you’re developing feelings for her?’ he asked.

‘No!’ Deryck shot back. ‘But, I think, perhaps she is for me. We will see, tomorrow night.’

‘Well, be sure that you do not fall for her.’ They were nearing their apartments. Golden light streamed from the long windows across the gravel. ‘You know what our plans are. There will be no time for romance once she is with the Dark.’ Denoris smiled broadly and laid a hand on Deryck’s shoulder. Deryck looked up, surprised.

‘Oh yes, of course,’ he said, forcing a smile. He walked the rest of the way in silence, only speaking to bid his father good night once they reached their rooms. Lord Denoris considered him for a moment before placing both hands on his son’s shoulders.    

‘Remember, Deryck, you hold all our hopes. Do not fail us.’ Deryck just nodded, hoping his face would not reveal his indecision, before turning to enter the solitude of his room.

Denoris turned away, his expression thoughtful. Well, if the boy got his heart broken, he couldn’t say he wasn’t warned. He had to learn not to let his feelings get in the way of a job that needed to be done. Entering his own rooms, the Dark Lord found Gwenene waiting, her beauty illuminated by the glow from the fire. She smiled at him as he stepped forward to embrace her, twining her arms around his neck to pull him close for a kiss, biting on his lip in a way that pleased him.

‘How goes it, my Lord?’ she asked, her voice low and husky, her eyes bright in the firelit room.

‘It is better, now,’ allowed Denoris. ‘And you, my Lady?’ he asked, his hands sliding on the silk of her light gown.

‘I am in need of some comfort after a difficult day,’ replied Gwenene, her crimson lips curving in a smile as she looked at him from under her lashes. ‘Your lady wife is at your estate, is she not?’

‘She is,’ said Denoris, one hand coming up to caress her soft dark hair. Lifting it away from her neck he kissed her throat. ‘So I am all yours, for tonight.’

‘And what of the girl? When will she be yours?’ purred Gwenene, closing her eyes as he kissed her again. ‘I saw her today with your son, in the Hall.’

Her hands moved down Denoris’ chest, and he grabbed them tight in his own, stopping their descent, growling deep in his throat as Gwenene pouted. ‘Yes,’ he said, his lips curled in a half smile, half snarl, ‘the boy has promise. In fact, if all goes to plan tomorrow night our bird may well be ensnared without even realising it.’

He smiled at Gwenene, green eyes gleaming in the firelight and she raised her eyebrows briefly before deliberately letting her dress slip off one shoulder. Yes, thought Denoris, bending his head to the eager Gwenene, the game was still in play.

***

After she had made her farewells, Caleb walked Alma to the Gate, wanting to make sure she got through in one piece. Thorion, of the same mind, despatched two guards to escort them through the woods, over Alma’s protestations.

‘You underestimate your own importance,’ he said, looking at her affectionately. Caleb nodded in agreement. ‘We could not have done this without you. Your role in finding the Sword has marked you as the one from the prophecy. Therefore your safety is more important than ever.’

So Alma had accepted the escort and Caleb’s insistence on accompanying her, but was quiet as they walked along, saying she was tired. At the Gate, she kissed him goodbye on the cheek. The scent of her hair and skin as she did so was intoxicating to him. He watched as she went through, his heart full, the sparkle of light letting him know she was safely across. After the day they had shared he thought he might finally be able to tell her how he really felt. After all, she had ridden with him, had linked her arm with his as they walked in the Great Hall.
She had kissed him on the cheek!
Today, thought Caleb, walking back through the woods with a smile on his face, had been a great day.

***

Alma came through the Gate to the park, reeling from the events of the day and completely exhausted. She staggered to her bench and sat down, needing a few minutes of just sitting and breathing before she felt equal to the task of getting home. All she could think about was Deryck, the way he had smiled at her and kissed her hand, asking her to promise him a dance. Eventually she got up slowly and started to walk home, wishing more than ever that she could call Sara and talk to her about what she was going through. She needed her advice. Reaching her driveway at last, almost stumbling with weariness, Alma quietly let herself in the side door. She could hear the hum of the television in the sitting room and knew her parents were in there, but was too tired to say more than ‘Goodnight’ as she went past the door. In bed a short while later, Alma found herself unable to sleep despite her exhaustion, the events of the day playing over and over in her mind. She tossed and turned, trying to find a comfortable position. Finally, she drifted off into a restless slumber. ‘Tomorrow,’ was her last thought, ‘I’ll see him again.’

The Great Hall hummed with music and conversation as people filed in. Members of the Court and residents of the nearby village mingled with others from the distant hills, all come together to celebrate the Feast Day and, now, the return of the Sword. Even the Dark put a brave face on things, making their presence felt and taking advantage of the event to cement alliances and pursue flirtations as they worked the room. Alma, dressed in gold silk, her hair in waves around her flushed face, was thoroughly enjoying herself. She had never been to anything like this before. As she entered the Great Hall on Caleb’s arm, she smiled at him in excitement. He grinned back, squeezing her arm, his amiable face glowing with pride.

‘Come on. Let’s find the refreshments, before all the good things are gone.’

Alma chuckled as she trailed through the crowd behind him – typical Caleb, always thinking with his stomach. While she hadn’t made any official plans to attend the ball with him, she was grateful to have him at her side as they moved through the crowd and people came forward to congratulate them on their achievement. The long windows were open to the warm summer air, letting in the scents of myriad flowers to mingle with the heated atmosphere. She saw Thorion standing with Meredan, both magnificent in ornate tunics and breeches, Thorion in his customary blue and Meredan in red and gold. She waved as she went past and was rewarded with broad smiles from them both, Meredan raising his glass to her.

Alma waited by a nearby pillar while Caleb fought his way through to the refreshment table, emerging a few moments later with drinks for them both and, balanced on top, a plate piled high with chicken legs, salad and savoury pastries, all in imminent danger of falling. Alma burst out laughing, taking the plate from him before he dropped it. She then swapped it for a drink which she sipped as she scanned the room, pleased to find it was the cordial she liked so much. She tapped her foot to the lively beat of the music and Caleb offered her some food. She waved it away.

‘No thanks,’ she said, smiling. ‘I’m really not hungry – too excited tonight.’

‘Really?’ said Caleb, looking surprised. ‘Are you sure?’ All around them people were stuffing their faces, exclaiming with pleasure over the delicious food. Couples started to fill the dance floor, whirling around as the music played. Alma just nodded, looking around – she loved to people watch, and when the crowd were all so good-looking, it was even more fun. Though if she was being honest, there was only one person she was looking out for and she hadn’t seen him yet.

‘Will you dance with me, Alma?’ asked Caleb suddenly. He had finished his meal and set the plate aside, looking expectantly at Alma who looked back at him in surprise.

‘Oh! Well, that is, I’m not a very good dancer, I don’t know the steps,’ she babbled, not wanting to hurt his feelings. Looking downcast, Caleb tried to hide his disappointment without much success and Alma sought to reassure him. ‘I’m not saying I won’t dance with you, I just need a minute to watch what they’re doing.’

‘I can help you,’ Caleb replied, cheering up a little. ‘I’m not a bad dancer, you know,’ he continued, executing a step. Alma laughed out loud, she couldn’t help it, then tried to cover it up as she saw the hurt expression on his face.

‘Oh, Caleb, I’m not laughing at you, I promise,’ she said, still smiling. ‘You are a good dancer, it’s just I’ve never seen you like that before,’ she went on, draining the last of her drink.

‘So, then - later?’ asked Caleb.

‘Later,’ agreed Alma, ‘but only if you promise to help me with the steps. And not laugh at me,’ she called out, for Caleb, noticing her empty cup, had taken it from her and, with a little bow and a wink, had gone to refill it. As soon as he went, Alma scanned the room again. Where was Deryck?

***

Denoris entered the Great Hall, the guards bowing as he came through the double doors, magnificent in dark brocade that set off his golden good looks. Gwenene was exquisite in silk and lace at his side. He scanned the room, nodding to acquaintances, his handsome face smiling as he moved through the throng. Inside, though, he was still seething, and he knew Gwenene could feel the tension in him as she held his arm.

‘Denoris,’ she murmured, and he turned his head to look at her. She raised one dark eyebrow at him. ‘We do not have to stay long.’

‘We need to be seen,’ he said through his teeth. ‘And I need to make sure the boy does his job. But where is he?’

He frowned as he scanned the crowd again. Gwenene stopped a passing waiter and took two drinks, handing one to Denoris. She waited, her blue eyes on him until he met her gaze again, then she smiled.

‘To catching birds.’ She raised her glass and clinked it with his. He smiled at her again - this time a real smile that reached his eyes. He took a drink then leaned in to kiss Gwenene, tasting the wine on her lips, her slender arm coming around his neck as she laughed against him.

‘To catching birds,’ he murmured against her mouth. Then he raised his head, looking around the room again. Where was the boy?

***

Alma moved through the glittering throng, oblivious to any admiring glances thrown her way. She smiled at the occasional person she recognised but didn’t stop, not wanting to be diverted from her goal. Caleb had gone to find drinks for them again and last she saw had been waylaid by one of his friends, no doubt having to tell the story once more of how he had been there when the Sword was found. So Alma was left to her own devices and she had one thing on her mind. Deryck. Since arriving through the Gate she had been in a whirl of nervous excitement, unable to share it with anyone. As she put on her beautiful gown and brushed out her hair, all her thoughts had been on one person and how she would look when he saw her. Now she was determined to find him and claim her dance.

Peering around a tall man in a rose tunic she thought she glimpsed Deryck’s golden hair near the edge of the dance floor. Perfect. Slipping past, she darted around a couple attired in matching shades of violet and purple then stopped dead, almost knocking into another dancing couple. Frowning, they moved around her but she didn’t notice. It was Deryck, immaculate and splendid as usual in midnight blue velvet. But he was otherwise occupied. A tall slender girl stood close to him, her long dark hair trailing down the back of her embroidered pale green gown. Her hand lay on his arm as he smiled down at her, his green eyes warm and full of affection. She said something to him that made him throw his handsome head back and laugh and Alma felt it like a blow to the gut. The two of them were so obviously close, so obviously suited for each other – how could she have thought for one moment that he liked her? The usual crowd of giggling girls congregated around Deryck, each vying for his attention but he only had eyes for the mysterious girl in green. Devastated and shocked by how much he was affecting her, Alma turned away and, pushing blindly through the crowd, headed for the glass doors to the gardens. She needed some fresh air.

***

Deryck turned his head as he noticed a slim figure in gold run from the room. Alma. He had been looking for her since he arrived, had been waiting to see her all day and now it seemed he had almost missed her. Excusing himself from his conversation, he made his way to the long window where he had last seen her, stepping out onto the terrace in time to see a flash of golden gown disappear down one of the gravel pathways. Quickly descending the steps that led into the garden, he followed down the same path, hoping to find her. He did not mean to miss his chance with her again.

***

Alma walked along the gravel path winding through the garden beds and down to the river, where gaily-coloured boats bobbed at their tethers, waiting to take passengers wherever they wished. The gravel that crunched under her feet was whitest quartz, while around her sweet-scented flowers in all the shades of the rainbow waved and nodded in the warm evening breeze. Exquisitely carved benches invited the wanderer to sit in shadowy alcoves, while in the distance the soft sound of a fountain could be heard.  All of this beauty was lost on Alma, caught up as she was in her own sadness.
The way he had smiled at her!
It was all she could see, Deryck smiling down at the dark-haired girl as they stood close together on the edge of the dance floor. Alma had been sure he was interested in her but saw now he must just have been humouring her, another of the girls who clamoured around him, desperate for the smallest sign of affection. Caleb had warned her, the Elders had gently chided her, but she hadn’t listened – now she just felt like an idiot. Wallowing in self-pity, Alma didn’t hear the footsteps behind her until they drew close. ‘Caleb’ she thought and, without turning, spoke.

‘I don’t need you to feel sorry for me-’ She stopped in shock as her bracelet started to burn against her wrist.

‘I don’t feel sorry for you. In fact, sorry is not how I feel about you at all.’

His voice was warm velvet and Alma turned around slowly to see Deryck smiling at her in a way that made her knees go weak.

‘Deryck!’ she gasped. Then, not knowing what else to say, she turned away again, wanting to hide her burning cheeks. He moved up behind her, standing close enough that she could feel the warmth of his body and gently brushed her hair aside to kiss the side of her throat. Alma thought she might die. Turning, she found herself in his arms – she felt nervous for a second but then it didn’t matter and she was kissing him, heating up, her arms around his neck as he pressed against her, increasingly intense. His hands moved along her back, holding her hard against him, then came to cup her face as they stopped, both panting, standing close with foreheads touching.

‘Where did you go?’ he murmured. ‘I’ve been looking for you – one moment you were there, the next you were gone. And you had promised me a dance, remember?’

Alma struggled to calm her breathing, still overwhelmed by the rapid turn of events. ‘I… it was… well, you seemed otherwise occupied,’ she said lamely, not wanting sound jealous but unable to help it, despite her situation.

Deryck smiled, moving his head back to look into her eyes. ‘When I was talking to my sister?’

‘Your sister?’ queried Alma, curious.

‘Yes, the dark-haired girl I was talking to – I presume that’s who you mean?’ He looked at her quizzically, one corner of his mouth crooked into a smile. Alma could only nod. Deryck tightened his arms around her waist, pulling her close.

‘She is my half-sister, to be correct. My father sired her on a trip to your world, so she is half-human. She spent some time there but has recently come to live back here.’

‘Really?’ said Alma, interested in the mysterious girl. Hell, she was interested in anything to do with Deryck – he could talk to her about shoe leather and she would be enthralled.

‘Yes, really,’ he laughed, mimicking her tone. ‘I’ll introduce you to her. I think you might get along.’ This last he said with a smile that hid something deeper, as though he were privy to some joke Alma was not. ‘But first,’ he said, leaning closer, murmuring in her ear, ‘let us walk together for a while. I would show you more of these gardens, if you would like.’ His lips brushed the side of her cheek, moving to her neck and Alma was lost. She would happily go wherever he liked.

Walking with Deryck through the darkened gardens, Alma felt as though the night had burst into bloom. The beauty that had eluded her before was now all around her, overwhelming her senses. Her only distraction was the stone at her wrist – rubbing her arm she tried in vain to alleviate the pain from her bracelet, which burned hot against her skin. Deryck, seeing the movement, stopped and took Alma’s hand in his own, careful not to touch the stone as he gently pushed her bracelet up her arm. He frowned as he saw the red mark on her skin, visible even in the moonlight. Reaching into a pocket of his tunic he brought out a square of pale cotton, which he handed to Alma. ‘Here,’ he said, ‘put this around the stone. I dare not do it myself, in case I touch it accidentally.’

Thanking him, Alma folded the soft handkerchief and twisted it around her bracelet, tucking the ends securely through the tiny links that held the stone in place, relieved to no longer feel its heat against her skin. Then she looked at Deryck with a slight frown.

‘Why don’t you want to touch the stone? I mean, you are of the Dark, and…’ She trailed off, not sure how to ask the question without seeming rude, not wanting to rob the night of any of its magic. But Deryck seemed to understand what she was getting at.

‘You mean, why don’t I touch the stone and break the power of your bracelet?’ Smiling, he moved closer to her, taking her hands in his own and bringing them around his back so she was forced to move towards him, to feel the length of him against her. Not that Alma minded at all. She managed to nod as he bent to kiss her gently before releasing her. She took a step back, needing to take a breath, amazed at how lightheaded she felt. Laughing a little, Deryck reached up to touch her face, his thumb sliding along her cheekbone and across her lips. Alma closed her eyes, overcome with her feelings for him. She felt his arms slide around her again, his body against hers, his voice soft as he murmured against her hair.

‘You really have no idea how much I like you, do you? If I destroy your bracelet, you won’t be able to come and see me anymore. So we need to protect it, and you, from me.’ He bent his head to kiss her again, effectively silencing her. Not that she minded.