Jewels of Rodemn

Iestyn breathes in the salty air of the port town his adoptive family governs over, remembering his arrival thirteen years earlier. Somehow, his terrible luck changed when the Viscovos came through Reeds. They ran across the eight year old orphan and decided to adopt him as their own, the couple being childless for years. They’ve since molded him into their perfect heir, while being doting as well as caring. In these regards, they’ve always allowed him to search for his younger sister, a driving force for him since they were separated.

Marquess Orson and Marchioness Cordelia indulged in his attempts so long as he stayed true to his lessons. His little, at the time, five year old sister Delilah was all he had left of his previous family. Due to war and a volcanic eruption, their family had perished in various ways with him leading Delilah to emergency evacuation boats. However, amongst the crowd they were separated and he was forced onto a boat without her. Being brought to the Marquess’ home of Rodemn, and their thriving city of Bronzeburn that was just outside of Rodemn’s walls, he found himself surrounded in luxury and comforts he’s never experienced. But, all of that was still hollow in his heart with the heavy shadow of his missing sister still persistently there.

“Mi’Lord, the Ladies await yer trials.” A roughened man with a crooked spin, cleft lip and left eye missing comes to him and announces, hunched over with an unfortunate forever scowl on his face. The man was a year younger than Iestyn and has been working for him since shortly after his adoption, his loyalty never being something Iestyn needed to question.

“Thank you Bernace, shall we proceed then?” Iestyn rhetorically questions as he leads the way to the atrium where the ladies awaited them.

“Are you sure you want to do this? Yer sister-” Bernace instantly quiets when Iestyn gives him a look, knowing better than most that the smile hid more than one could imagine.

“Bernace, it must be done. Should my sweet Delilah be found later, we can easily explain the mistake. But, for now we can’t keep wasting our time and resources in dealing with these impostors.” Iestyn replies, having already explained the plan to allow his most trusted aides help select a girl from this trial to play the part of his missing sister. Not only would this bring joy to his parents, it would also lessen the amounts of frauds attempting to earn some gold from his misfortune.

“Yes Mi’ Lord, I only worry fer ye is all.” Bernace replies with sincerity, something Iestyn cannot find in many others so easily. The roughened man didn’t hold much for others either, which brought Iestyn much consolation.

“Thank you my friend, but try not to too much. Let me know if you find anyone to your liking.” Iestyn replies with a grin, giving him a wink as they enter through the doors, being announced and gaining the attention of the women instantly. “Hello Ladies, and thank you for willing to take on these trials I’ve prepared to ascertain if you are my lost sister or not. Please follow these attendants and they will aid you through each test. I will be watching over everything, and will hold the final trial.”

With that, a maid for each woman came alongside them and led them to the next area. The trials went around in a circle where he could watch everything from a raised platform in the center of the room. The first room is full of toys strewn all over the room, where they would choose one, their attendant marking it down before they replace it for the next woman. The second room had assortments of candies, where they would each choose one to try. The third room held weapons made for women, where they would choose one following the rules of the first room. The fourth room was filled with various flowers for them to pick out and keep.

This brings them back to the fifth room, where the nine ladies are lined up facing towards him with a good three feet between them. He looks them over curiously as he wonders about the outcome. “Now’s the time for the last test. Please lift an arm before you and stay still. Owls will be released, and should any perch upon you you are to take a step forward.” He intones as the attendants come forward to place a thick leather glove on their offered arms. With a motion of his hand, the cages open revealing the various owls that ruffle their feathers and wings as they eye the room. He had already given instructions to an owl named Herice to choose a woman to act as his sister for the time being. The owl had never liked him as much as the others, so he figured they would prefer this task as the others swooped past the women to find his sister amongst them. If they didn’t find her, they would land around him instead, effortlessly called by his druid bloodline.

The bloodline he held had a rather high affinity with owls, which helped with his adoption as the Viscovos’ House regarded owls as a rather holy symbol of blessings. In fact, their house emblem was a horned owl perched upon a blade, it’s eyes piercing as it stares at you. His favorite owls happened to be barn though, most of the ones present being so. Of course, Herice was a screech owl. As they make their third pass around the women, Herice chooses a pale haired woman while the others come to perch near him. The various servants seem surprised and whisper feverishly to one another as he slowly steps down from the platform and moves to the woman. As he nears, he lifts his hand and Herice answers his call, perching upon his shoulder as he stares down at the woman.

Pale strawberry blonde hair, gray eyes and freckles dusting her cheeks. She was lanky and stunted from malnourishment through life, but had obviously been cared for before being sent here. All of the ladies had pale hair to match his own, though his was a sandy blonde and he never gave a large description of exactly what shade his Delilah had. The gray eyes staring at him though spoke much of the grimness she had faced through the years. They were the eyes of one that had given up on the light and was merely alive but not living. This was in such a high contrast from his vibrant sister that he couldn’t imagine how one could confuse them. However, he pushes aside the thoughts and gives her a soothing smile. “What is your name?”

She lowers her arm and falls into a clumsy curtsy. “I am Merisha, Lord Vladicus Balemin is my backer.” She replies humbly.

Instantly, Iestyn recognizes the name and understands the intentions of the Lord. Any backer would receive praise, payment and good relations with the Marquess’ house. On top of that, they would attempt to use the maiden sent as a pawn. “Lord Balemin? Bernace, please send word to the Lord that Lady Merisha will now be under House Viscovos’ care. She will be going through further tests to finalize her familiar position. Make sure to convey our gratitude to House Balemin.” He orders, gaining a sneaky smile from Bernace as he reads the meaning behind his words all too well.

With that, he turns his attention back to the other ladies that seem rather disappointed. “You all have my sincerest gratitude as well for coming and taking the assessments. Please, make yourselves comfortable at this villa, with all amenities provided by House Viscovos. I understand many of you do not come from clear backgrounds and have taken a hefty risk today. To compensate for that, each of you will have a chance to meet with Steward Natalia Eberstain over the next week. She shall aid you all in taking the necessary steps for a better future backed by House Viscovos.” He smiles politely as they all get excited and follow the attendants to their rooms before turning back to Merisha.

“Please, follow me so that we may talk freely over some tea.” He tells her, turning and escorting her in a smooth motion as he leads her to his personal tea room. After sitting, he gives her a smile while their tea is poured. “Merisha, from this moment on you are now my sister and I will take care of you as such. Please, if you have any worries or needs, tell me straight away and I will make sure they are handled with swiftness.” He sincerely tells her, watching as she hesitates before taking a sip of tea.

Merisha studies the man before her, wondering if she could trust him. She found herself uncertain of her situation and weary of any backlash from Lord Balemin, vivid memories of his punishments flashing through her mind. Involuntarily, her breath hitches at the thought as she averts her eyes and her hands tighten. She regains her composure to the best of her abilities before she meets his concerned gaze. “Will… will Lord Balemin be visiting me?”

Her question, barely a whisper, spoke volumes for Iestyn. “Do you want him to?” he asks her, certain of her answer before she gave it.

She drops her gaze again, her lips pressed together as she subtly shakes her head. “No, please don’t allow him to…” She replies in the faintest of tones.

Iestyn reaches over and clasps her hands in his, bringing her warmth when she finally meets his compassionate eyes. “Dear sister, please don’t worry about Lord Balemin. Nor shall you hang your head any longer. You are a Lady now, the daughter of Marquess Orson and Marchioness Cordelia Voscovos, and not one person shall dare to belittle or harm you from henceforth on.” He gives her hands a gentle squeeze. “This, I promise and swear to you.”

Merisha, who had given up on humanity and her life in general, felt the tiniest flicker of that lost hope ignite in her. Tears she didn’t realize were falling rolled down her face. Even if this man was a lying monster, this moment of relieved hopefulness was enough for her as she falls against him sobbing. She hadn’t realized how much she needed someone…anyone to tell her these things. To simply offer her a way out, and just treat her like a human being.

*****************************

Hours later, Merisha is asleep in her chambers. They chose to stay the night in the villa, then leave in the morning for Rodemn. Her rooms were still more lavish than the other ladies, and much more than she’s ever experienced. Iestyn recalls tucking her in, feeling the feeble grasp that she used to try and keep hold of him after crying herself to exhaustion. Now, within his own rooms, he thoroughly went over the papers his informants brought him about her.

She lost her parents to war and disease, being orphaned until one of Lord Balemin’s sons found her. The young lordling then took her in, treating her in sadistic ways as though she was a toy for his amusement. She was assaulted physically, mentally and sexually by Lord Balemin and his sons, as well as other notable men willing to pay well, until they realized she fit the bill for his search. They knew she wasn’t his sister, but still attempted to get as much as they could gain from this broken woman.

He isn’t a hero, nor is he one that needed to be. However, she was now his sister, so the only solace he could offer for her forgotten previous life is to ensure they paid for their crimes. Not only were their actions disgusting and disgraceful, but he couldn’t allow them the chance of spreading rumors. Allowing any of them a moment of having something to hold over their heads wasn’t to be tolerated. “I’ll be busy for the next few weeks…” he sighs out before stretching and putting the papers away. He calmly locks the room and goes to his bedroom to rest.

*********************************************

Almost two years later, Iestyn finds himself attending the trials of Lord Balemin and his sons. All but the youngest two sons were being sentenced with their father now, as well as several men and women that knew about their human trafficking. He had warned the Lord and his children that as long as they minded their business, he would mind his as gentlemen do. However, he supposed that Lord Balemin’s supporters and patrons being incarcerated or vanishing had spurred him into attempting to bring down Marquess Viscovos’ house. A dangerous and idiotic decision that proved to be his downfall, almost as though it was planned…

Merisha took some time, but she settled comfortably into her new role as the daughter of Marquess Viscovos. She needed for nothing, and took to her many lessons to catch up on her Lady duties very well. She wasn’t very greedy, nor selfish, and instead expressed her gratitude to this family daily. The young woman still held no idea that she wasn’t truly his sister, and for the moment it hadn’t mattered. And as she stood beside him, watching the Lord and his sons be beheaded, she had truly regained a spark in her eyes for life once more.

“I always keep my promises.” He whispers into her ear, causing her to nod.

“Yes brother, and I am thankful for that.” She replies, her gaze still transfixed as the screaming Lord’s head is decapitated.

He escorts her through the halls of the castle, trying to get back to their rooms. However, many young noblemen have taken a keen interest in Merisha, causing him to need to stop every few feet for small talk and introductions. Merisha has mastered playing to her strong suits of being coy, demure and playful just enough to keep these men enticed. As much as a headache it would bring the following days from her many callers, he was prideful of her actions and abilities.

“Marquess Desmond Gryphon is coming Mi’Lady.” Susanna, Merisha’s closest servant, whispers to Merisha causing the siblings to take notice.

“Viscount of Rodemn, Lady of Rodemn, greetings to you both on this rather eventful evening.” The young Marquess greets them, effectively causing other suitors to take a couple of steps back from them. The man is a few years older than Iestyn, but has freshly inherited his position upon his father relinquishing it to him.

“Marquess Desmond, how does Cold Hollar fare these days? I hear tale that you have just entered a rather successful trade?” Iestyn inquires respectfully, giving the man a chance to boast as the group continues through the halls.

“Yes, I am humbled by such rumors spreading of a venture not yet complete. I believe that you have more experience in trades to the west, perhaps I should have consulted you before sending my vessels.” Desmond retorts, keeping the air amicable as the two men chuckle. He then turns his attention to Merisha. “I fear we may have been leaving the most pleasant of jewels out of our conversation, you have my apologies Lady Merisha.”

“I thank you for your concern Marquess Desmond, but please do continue this topic of trade. I am learning more about it myself, so to hear from my peerage regarding this intriguing topic is a joyous occasion.” Merisha replies while peeking at him through her lashes before blushing and glancing away. “Of course, we can also speak of other discussions.”

“My Lady, I had not realized you enjoyed trade or I would have indulged in such conversations earlier.” Desmond replies with a bow and wink to her. “I shall strive to rectify this.”

“I will send an invite for tea then, Marquess Desmond. There are a few prospects that have shown promise I would rather like your thoughts upon.” Iestyn suggests, gaining a smile from the two. Having the Marquess marrying Merisha may not be a bad idea so long as she was comfortable with the idea. A man such as he wouldn’t be on the market for long either, so timing was just as important as compatibility and status.

“I eagerly await the invite then old friend. Please excuse me as my mother seems to wish for my presence.” He bids them with a sigh as his mother motions him over to speak with a group of young ladies. Desmond and Iestyn had been friends since a year after Iestyn was adopted, so they knew one another well enough.

“Shall we retire then?” He asks Merisha, already leading them towards their rooms once more.

“I hope I didn’t embarrass us, or put you in a difficult position.” She tells him delicately.

“Not at all sister, you did splendidly this evening.” He replies just as they finally reach their rooms.

**********************************************

“MiLord, ye got a letter from some Lord in that kingdom over. Gias Empire, Lord Finlock of Resonburrow me recalls.” Bernace tells him as he enters his study with the letter, handing it to Iestyn before making himself a drink.

Iestyn couldn’t help the confused interest he had as he accepted the letter. That soon turned into cautious hope as he read though, finding that they wished to send a girl to him to see if she held any relations. A maid of theirs had found a girl wandering the streets of a city where some refugees from his home town were. She took the child in, but the description matched pretty closely to what he posted for his search. “Be sure to send my reply posthaste, have a unit of men escort the girl here.” He passes his reply to Bernace.

“Yes MiLord, right away.” Bernace replies before leaving.

It had been eight months since Lord Balemin’s trials, and at the moment his parents have escorted Merisha to have tea at Desmond’s manor. No doubt his parents are there as well and his intentions of proposing is known by all but Merisha at this point. While he’s glad this sister is all but taken care of, his thoughts can’t help but to return to his dear Delilah. Having their story being that they are the bastard children of the Marquess means that she could simply be the last one that they are legitimizing.

His thoughts are fully broken off though when Merisha bursts through his doors, showing a beautiful gem encrusted engagement ring to him. “He proposed, Iestyn! We’re getting married!” She squeals with joy as he rises, rushing over to hug him.

“I’m so happy for you Meri, congratulations! We’ll make sure it’s the grandest wedding of the year!” He tells her, rocking a bit as he felt some of his worries melt away. With her engagement and soon marriage, it would keep his family members busy while he investigates this sudden inquiry. He had not been contacted regarding his missing sister for a couple of years, so while excited by this prospect he remains cautious as well.

“I have three dress appointments set for next week so let’s do our best to find your perfect gown!” Marchioness Cordelia enthuses as she enters, the two women embracing as if true mother and daughter. “I am filled with joy for you my dear daughter.” She whispers to her with tears glistening in her eyes.

“We shall hold a hunt to greet Marquess Desmond, how is tomorrow for you?” Marquess Orson prods after the women leave in a heated discussion.

“I believe my day has suddenly opened up, father.” Iestyn replies with a grin and laughs as he stands respectfully. “I’m glad Desmond has finally decided to announce his intentions publicly.”

“Yes, as are we. In fact, we’ve found a suitable date for the engagement announcement, which will be in two weeks. Please keep your week free for it’s preparations.” Orson gives him a chuckle here before continuing. “Who knows, maybe you’ll find yourself a future wife as well.”

“Father, that is the furthest from my mind, but I shall keep you posted should any changes be made.” Iestyn replies just as jokingly, but truthfully.

Merely a week later, and Iestyn finds himself looking at a pair that had just been escorted in. “Leona Cirquelaih and Zamya Cirquelaih, I hope your travels were pleasant.” He greets them before motioning to chairs across the dask from his own. “Please, take a seat as we have much to discuss.” He watches them take their seats, feeling his expectations rise as he studies young Zamya. Or rather, he should say older Delilah. “Please, tell me why you believe she may be my sibling.” He demands after the servants leave them alone with refreshments.

“Your excellency, I didn’t fully believe she was until now as I can see the appearance is remarkably uncanny!” Leona rushes with her eyes large with wonder before she takes a deep breath with her hand on her chest. “My apologies, I shall fully explain my reasoning. Zamya was a child when I found her, she was struggling to grow a small garden patch for herself and a few other orphans. I took them in and tried my best to help them on their paths to live successful lives. Even at a young age though, I could tell she was slightly different. She held no memories, but would always have an owl to talk or sing to.”

Leona pauses as she fidgets a bit in her seat. “She was always attractive, and cleverly resourceful. The Lord and his Lady also took a liking to her, teaching her the proper ways of a noblewoman in hopes of her aiding their daughter in the future. Your posting asked for pale hair, unusual eyes, animal familiarity, and an orphan from Diahlrai. She fits all of those descriptions, even the age of twenty-one now is roughly correct. We simply wish to reunite her with her family if we are able to, so please do tell us right away if she isn’t the right woman.”

Iestyn steples his fingers, looking over some papers he had jotted notes on as he glances at the pair. It was true that she did fit the bill, more so that he could tell it was his Delilah as their familiar blood sang to one another. However, he must put her through the tests lest someone thinks he’s lying. More so, she had the look of their family. Pale ashen hair and striking amethyst eyes with strong, angular aristocratic features. The fact that the Marquess had silver hair helped sell the illegitimate child tale well. “I am optimistic from what I’ve been told, but we must have her complete the trials before we may carry on with a decision.” He finally relents.

“Thank you, your excellency.” They both reply with a curtsy before following him and Bernace to the trial area.

He hadn’t changed it in case this happened, and with every step he felt the curious gaze of his sister upon him. “Leona, please wait here while the attendants take Zamya through the trials. You can watch through this window here.” He tells her, showing her where the window was as well. After that, they enter and he takes his spot to watch.

Trial one, she chooses a spinning top.

Trial two, she chooses a bitter candy.

Trial three, she chooses metal talons.

Trial four, she chooses baby’s breath.

Soon, it’s trial five and all eagerly hold their breath as the owls soar. Mentally, he pleads for her to call to them as she holds out her arms, seemingly mesmerized by the many different ones. “Land.” He commands them, watching as he and Zamya both have half of the flock settled around them. He meets her gaze with his own teary one, slowly moving towards her with a hand outstretched to caress her cheek. “My sweet Delilah, baby sister.” He says, watching as a flicker of recognition flits in her eyes before she gasps, then faints. “Call for Doctor Falzield immediately!” He orders, taking her swiftly to her readied rooms. He had a small concern as to her reaction to being reunited, so make a few contingency plans just in case.

Zamya feels as though her head is splitting into two as what she thought were nightmares flooded her, leaving her to remember their town’s demise. She recalls now though her brother Styn, pulling her through the terrified crowd before she stumbles and he’s suddenly gone. She recalls an older couple grasping her hands, pulling her through the crowd to boats. She recalls seeing her island get smaller and smaller, then the eruption of smoke and fiery lava.

She jolts awake, springing to a sitting position so quickly she almost smacks her head against another’s. Iestyn’s head in fact from him sitting beside her bed, wiping her brow. Immediately she’s flustered by his and Leona’s presence. “M-my apologies S-Styn!” She stammers out, feeling dizzy as her mind works over-time.

Iestyn grasps her shoulders to steady her, then a little more firmly when he registers what she said. “What did you just call me?” He demands, his ears hopefully perked.

“S-Styn… My apologies again Vis-viscount!” Zamya stutters as the memories from both of her lives continue flitting through her mind. She’s jolted more into the present as she’s pulled into a warm, and somehow familiar, hug.

“I’ve missed you so Deli…” Iestyn pulls himself back and they simply study one another for a moment. “You’ve grown so much…” He murmurs, recalling their sisters and mother that she resembled so. With a shake of his head, he moves towards the door fully understanding he’d need to prepare for the announcement to the rest of the household. “We’ll rest here tonight, but tomorrow we shall move to Rodemn. Please continue taking good care of my sister, Leona.”

“I shall Viscount Iestyn, and I thank you for your kindness.” Leona replies before she embraces Zamya for the last time. Starting tomorrow, she will be Delilah Voscovos with Leona being a gifted servant. “My dear, allow me to bring your food and explain things to come.” Leona tells her as the door clicks behind Iestyn.

Delilah’s head spins as she’s told what happened. Apparently, they had discussions that resulted in Leona being her personal and head maid. He also plans to introduce her to the Marquess’ household the following day, already arranging a tea for her and Merisha. Lady Delilah Viscovos of Rodemn is now her title and name…

And she felt like a whirlwind had set her adrift as she numbly ate.

*****************************

“Meri, please join us.” Iestyn greets Merisha with a hug before motioning for her to sit next to Delilah at the small round table. “Merisha, I wish to introduce you to Delilah. She’s our sister and will be living here at Rodemn.” He starts, allowing the anxious Delilah and shocked Merisha a moment to understand him.

“I must admit something to the both of you now, but understand that this changes nothing.” He continues before locking eyes with Merisha. “Merisha, you aren’t my blood sister. Delilah is the one I’ve been searching for and I brought you into our family to help with finding her.”

Merisha hears a gasp come from Delilah beside her, but as she gazes at Iestyn she feels tears roll down her face as betrayal sweeps through her. Just as quickly, rage rears its head causing her to slam her hands on the table and stand. “So what now? Now that you’ve found the real Delilah, you don’t have a need for me? Was everything you’ve said a lie?! Why?! Why give me hope if…?!” She dissolves into sobs as he takes one step towards her and she finds herself fleeing from him. From his promises that no longer mattered, just like all of the other nobles she’s ever met!

“Please pardon us for a moment.” Iestyn tells Delilah as he slips through the door and goes after Merisha. Seeing her leaning against a bed post, he grabs her before she can run again and hugs her close. Her fists lash out against him, but he deserved it and should have discussed things sooner. “Merisha, you were never Delilah and never will be.”

Such a soothing tone being used for something so harsh to her that it shocks her from her sobs as she stares up at him, helplessly listening to his words. “I knew from the start you weren’t, but you are still our sister now. I am sorry that we hadn’t discussed this sooner, but she was found sooner than expected. Please remember your brother for, if only one thing, that I always keep my promises. And I promised you family, which shalln’t be broken simply because we’re all reunited now.” He tells her while stroking her hair, trying to convey she was still his little sister as well. “Our family is simply expanding, both with Delilah’s arrival and your marriage.”

Merisha closes her eyes and leans against his chest, simply listening to his heartbeat as she calms herself down. “You truly won’t abandon me?” She asks hesitantly.

“No dear sister, worry not.” Iestyn replies, feeling her small frame shudder with relief and exhaustion. “Do you wish to rest?”

Merisha steps away, immediately tidying herself as she shakes her head. “Absolutely not! I need to apologize for my behavior to Delilah, at the very least. Come, we’ve left her alone for long enough.” She tells him, a small smile gracing her lips.

************************************

Delilah hides her nervousness as best she could considering she was suddenly thrust into nobility and debuting at Merisha’s engagement party. She’s danced much but one figure continues to draw her eyes throughout the night.

Merisha has aided their brother with her marriage to the Marquess. And, perhaps, she could aid him with a royal marriage…