Tightly Wound

[Chordling]

Valerie's heart skipped a beat at the mechanic's warm compliment about her furniture and did her best to conceal her excitement behind a stagnant expression. "I think that should be quite fine as long as it is fine with all of you," she smiled when Anna had addressed her, and properly. Ms. White was beginning to like this Anna girl. Robert, having all ready removed the wet cloth from the back of his head, made no disagreements. "Excellent." The elderly woman lifted herself from her seat, then went around to collect everyone's dishes. Once they had been placed into the sink, she rejoined the group. "Anna darling, you can come with me," she smiled. "And Robert, your room is where it always has been. The bed isn't made, but there should be some sheets in the drawers. Will you bring a few extra out so Andrei can make himself comfortable?"


Robert had all ready moved towards the front door to fetch his cane. "Certainly," he blankly said, then began to make his way to his own room down the hall past the kitchen. Valerie began to lead Anna along the same, miniature corridor. Without really thinking, Robert swiftly swung the door open to his childhood room and did not expect such strange feelings to wash over him. His blue eyes scanned over the small area as he was filled with, what was it? Was there a hint of nostalgia? Oh, most definitely. But there was something else. Could he call it relief, sadness, hope, or fear? What was it? Not wishing to draw attention to himself, he entered the room, then gently shut the door.


His cane rested just beside the cracked door frame and his pocket watch was placed on the short, wooden dresser. Robert's next steps were towards the dresser, where there were plenty of unused sheets, just like his mother told him. Carefully he removed a stack of sheets from the first drawer and placed them by the foot of the bed, then gathered another stack to deliver to Andrei. The two gentleman exchanged friendly nods without much to be said, then Robert returned to make his bed. A cloud of dust filled the room as Robert allowed the sheet to unfurl. He made the rest of the bed with further caution.


"You've both had quite the day, I'm sure you are awfully tired," Valerie spoke as she moved about the room to fix up the guest room with clean bedding. Edith had been quite the obstacle as she attempted to remove her belongings to bring up to the master bedroom. With a single flick of her wrists, Valerie unfolded the sheet, only allowing the smallest about of debris to escape. "Ha ha!" she chuckled. "I taught that trick to myself. Clever, isn't it? I bet the boys haven't figured it out yet," she winked.

 

[Erica]

Relief and fatigue settled over Anna’s shoulders in equal measure as they dispersed in an orderly fashion. Robert’s mother defied her initial expectations, but it did not reflect poorly on the woman. It took a rare individual to receive a distant son who arrived with trouble and the law on his heels without blinking an eye. Granted, Valerie seemed not in full possession of her senses, but even so, Anna found her easy acceptance of them into her home a mark of good character.


Besides, her ability to scold Robert into behaving was a remarkable unto itself. Under less trying circumstances, she might have thanked the woman for the privilege of witnessing that event alone.


Valerie’s summary of their day was a terrific understatement. The day had been long, perilous, and, in many ways, terrifying. So far, Anna had kept her emotional response to the day’s events at bay by focusing on the next required step. Leaving the palace, fleeing the King’s Guard, finding sanctuary, helping Robert avoid terrifying his family with their arrival. But now the day was catching up with her. She could feel it in the tightness in her throat as Valerie said she must be tired and the only mildly forced smile at her trick.


Anna had not made her bed in some time, but the basics were not easily forgotten. She took a hold of the sheet and tucked it around the mattress as she offered a tired smile to her host. “I highly doubt it,” she agreed, “Although Andrei might surprise you. If he thought it would sufficiently improve the quality of life, he would build a machine to make the beds, wash the sheets, and fold them properly.” Some genuine humor permeated her tone as her smile transformed into a small grin. “Much to my staff’s vexation, he generally ascribes greater value to transport over housekeeping.”


Once they had made the bed, Anna turned to Valerie. “I thank you again for being so kind as to take us in. Robert... Mr. White... is rather tight-lipped. I think he prefers - or rather, he expects people to draw their own conclusions on all matters of import. But, even in my current fatigued state, it is clear that he is fortunate to have such a loving and gracious mother.” She laid a hand on Valerie’s arm, trying to urge the woman to the door. Part of her statement was political habit: she knew how to flatter and cajole with the best of them. But there was truth to her statement. While Anna’s mother remained a model for supporting political wives throughout Silchester, Valerie’s doting and no-nonsense approach to her son was instantly likeable.


Even so, Anna needed rest. After reassuring Valerie at least five more times that she had everything she needed, Anna finally shut the door to the guest room and found herself alone for the first time since the hurried attempt to change clothes at her house. Her legs still throbbed where they had been injured, and it occurred to her that she should set her dress aside, for it was likely she would need to wear it again the next day. Sitting heavily on the bed, she lifted up her skirt to inspect her legs. The injuries there seemed slightly inflamed, probably due to the activity of the day. In fact, until she looked at them, they had not bothered her. The flight from Silchester had occupied all of her attention. But now that she did, she realized that they did ache, and she was tired, and she had no idea why the King would send his Guard to her house. Or, for that matter, how they would arrange for the ship to be repaired so that they might attempt to clear their names.


How on earth were they going to set things right?


The emotions of the day, long held at bay through a sheer act of will, washed over her quite suddenly and relentlessly. Dropping the hem of her skirt, Anna buried her head in her hands and wept. It was not a dignified scene, but she could not contain herself. She only hoped the walls here would conceal the sound of her sobs and cries from the others.

 

[Chordling]

Valerie did not understand why Ms. Stroud referred to her son as if they didn't know each other. Mr. White this, Mr. White that. Robert... er, Mr. White who? After so many years working together, and the time spent during the recently passed events, wouldn't a first name basis be okay? Even if it was against whatever professional code they were told to uphold? And why did Anna have to remind her of the person Robert was? Valerie knew her son's disposition better than any living creature in Aneora, or so she liked to believe. From what she observed during their visit so far, not much had changed over the course of the years. There would be little catching up to do as far as who he was, but there was much to be updated about what he was doing. Anna's unintentional ignorance aside, Ms. White simply smiled and took the compliment with full face value.


Several times she had offered the female senator books, blankets, another spot of tea, and as many other luxuries she could afford and think of, and several times she had been denied. Rather unwillingly she left the guest room, only wishing to create stronger bonds with the new female companion, but her longing was washed away when she was pulled into the kitchen to help her sister dry the dishes.


"Oh, hear, Andrei," Valerie said as she handed him a dish towel. The mechanic had just completed covering the sofa with the sheets Robert had brought to him and was setting down a few pillows. "You can dry. Edith will wash, and I'll put them away." The older sister rolled her eyes in a manner that was hauntingly familiar, but made no further fuss. At least Valerie wasn't trying to squeeze her way out of the chore fully.


Robert could hear their amusement through the thin wood walls of his room as he slowly readjusted himself to the new sleeping space. Nothing about the room had changed physically, but time had a funny way of altering things. The door was still cracked from the time his dad kicked it open in a fit of rage, the closet was filled with the clothing he left behind when he moved to Silchester, the windows still didn't open properly, and he could still hear the subtle rattling from the kitchen plumbing whenever the water ran... or was there a new sound? Perhaps both noises had been present, but Robert could not be sure, so he quietly left his room to investigate. He figured it would be best to quiet everyone down so they could figure out where the strange noise originated from, but as he made his way out of the hallway, he suddenly realized that the sounds were coming from Anna's room. It didn't take much longer for him to realize that she had been crying.


For all the years he knew Anna, he never experienced a moment where she was in tears. Even when her spouse had passed, though her eyes might have been heavily hinted with sadness, not a single tear had been witnessed. Now it seemed that their journey had taken its toll. Robert couldn't blame her. The events they had experienced were emotionally demanding and it seemed nearly impossible to take it all in. He was surprised and impressed that he had not fallen under the same pressure. Perhaps it was his own stubbornness that was maintaining his composure.


Silently he stood before the door and his hand crept towards the door handle. Robert thought of all the people back in Silchester. What would they think of him if they ever discovered he had affectionate feelings towards his own political counterpart? Would they think of him as less of the person he had persevered endlessly for to become; a monarchist? Would they form ideas of political conspiracies or malicious affairs? And then his ego thought, why should all of this matter? Robert all ready confessed his true feelings towards her, surely there was no turning back. Anna might not have taken his words as he had wished, but maybe she thought of the same possible repercussions he had stuck in his own mind. Or, she simply didn't want him to believe that she knew, and would wait for the opportune moment to destroy his political career. Robert's thoughts continued to plague him, but they abruptly paused when his wrist prematurely rotated. The door became ajar.


Robert suddenly felt a new surge of nervousness. Had he been impulsive or intrusive? Should he just have left Anna alone? Before his mind could trail for any longer (and before anyone would notice him strangely standing in front of the guest room), he softly pushed on the door and made a quiet entrance. Carefully, he pulled on the handle to close the door behind him. The sight of Anna in her lament affected Mr. White more than he had expected. He did not believe that his heart race would increase, or that sweat would begin to collect on his palms. Really, he never expected any sort of anxiety. This sort of nervousness was not the same as the kind he received as an inexperienced orator, for had it been, it would easily be conquered. This nervousness did not have any known ailment, at least for Robert, and therefore was invincible. Doing his best to suppress his nerves, he walked towards the bed and sat beside Anna.


"Are you all right?"

 

[Erica]

As Andrei was roped into chores by Valerie, Anna wept. Contrary to her hardened reputation in the Senate, she did, in fact, have moments of weakness and emotion. She was human, after all, and a woman besides. Yet her youth spent among her father's political maneuvering and her mother's impeccable etiquette had instructed her well. She knew that a single moment of weakness - even a moment of perceivedweakness - could destroy a political career.


Sam's murder had devastated her, and her subsequent miscarriage had decimated her. Anna had wept then, railing against the injustice of the world, feeling her heart break repeatedly. But always in private, and she had never allowed herself to dwell on that pain for long. She knew such pain was poison: a bitter draught that could transform even the best people into ghost-like versions of their former selves. Then, eventually, into pariahs.


Those dark days served as a guide post now: a way to measure and endure any other hardship without complaint. For there could be no pain so worthy of her tears as that she had suffered in those weeks and months following Sam's death.


The day had been a whirlwind of revelation and events, almost none of them pleasant and all of them unsettling if not terrifying. She cursed her tears as she blamed them on being overwhelmed. And yet she could not seem to make them stop.


Robert was inside the room before she heard him, and instantly his presence brought her back to herself. Normally, she would never allow him to see her in such a state, but the situation was as far from normal as possible. She sniffled and wiped her puffy eyes, straightening her spine as he approached the bed and sat beside her.


His question, while clearly an attempt at kindness, struck her as oddly amusing. She chuckled dryly and shook her head before looking at him, and not unkindly. "Forgive me. It is only that we left 'All right' back in Silchester."


She paused for a moment, sniffling once before attempting to reclaim some of her expected decorum. "What you must think of me," she said, partly to herself, as she glanced down at her hands clasped in her lap. After a slow breath, she conjured a purposeful it tight smile for him. "I will be myself on the morrow," she said, unsure why she wanted to explain herself to him- or why he was being kind to her. She finally looked to him, dark eyes searching his; for what, she did not know.

 

[Chordling]

He suddenly realized that her posture had straightened and she seemed more collected when he had entered her room. And why was this? Was it out of professionalism or respect? He knew his presence affected those who considered him their superior, but he never imagined it would cause those who were considered his equal to withdraw their tears beneath a mask of suppressed emotions. Whatever the reason, it was very difficult to determine. Anna certainly did not fear him or feel any form of intimidation. Why should she after so many years together in the senate? Perhaps he was forgetting that people's minds do not function as normally as they do when in a state of stress.


"Now is not the time to owe one another forgiveness, Ms. Stroud," Robert managed to say in a low voice after a small pause. His mind suddenly became focused on the next set of words he was going to say, and his nerves became less intense, almost as if they were in a debate. But Mr. White did not wish to exchange opinions with Ms. Stroud, at least not now. In truth he wanted to comfort her, even though the idea may have seemed outlandish, but it was what he felt was the proper thing to do. After all she had done the same thing for him, hadn't she? "We are in far too dire circumstances," he continued in a calm tone as the corners of his mouth lightly curled into something that might have been considered a weak smile, ironic as it may have seemed. The situations which he referred to were quite serious, they were practically considered outlaws (also holding its own irony), but the expression was simply meant to show her a bit of compassion.


Anna's second phrase intrigued Robert, but he did not outwardly reply to it, for he would have mostly likely replied to it as if she had asked him a question. Ms. Stroud had not given her phrase as a question, rather, it was a statement. But what exactly was he to think of her? That she was less of a politician because of her emotions? And if he did think just that, how would that make him any better? Robert understood the high pressure of society and what was expected of them as highly acknowledged politicians. To claim that he never curtailed to strong emotions would be incredibly false, and to call Ms. Stroud out for her submissive actions would be unjustified. It might as well be considered a sin.


Maybe his mission to provide her comfort was too advanced. He tried to express his efforts as he looked back at her. The blue in his eyes seemed to hold a softer tone, unlike their usual, intense energy. After another short moment, he turned his head away, and naturally lead the conversation into more familiar subjects. "Mr. Volos and I will leave tomorrow morning to meet Mr. Wilhelm at the general market. You are free to stay here with my mother and aunt and rest yourself." He wasn't exactly sure how these words would give Anna the supplements to regather her senses, and he wasn't sure how the idea of staying with his relatives in their poor excuse of a house was appealing either, but at least he could say he sort of tried.

 

[Erica]

Anna did not know what she expected to see in Robert’s gaze. Condemnation, perhaps, but that was unlikely. Else he would not have entered the room. A firm instruction to compose herself was more likely. Or, at best, a moment of camaraderie in their shared predicament. Instead, a quite unexpected gentility lay in his blue eyes. It startled her out of her own concern, making her return to her internal questions about how well he was coping with the unexpected and likely undesired return to his home. Her brow creased slightly in concern and question. She had just begun to reach out to put a hand on his arm when he steered them back to familiar ground.


Awkwardly, she patted his arm, then let her hand rest there. “You are kind to think of me, but I am not an invalid. I was simply...” she hesitated, trying to find a way to politely imply that she had lost control of her emotions. “Overwhelmed, perhaps. A good night’s rest will make everything more tolerable.” She did not name that his mother’s doting was among the list of things to be tolerated; that would be impolite. It was written on her face, however. “I would rather venture out with you, if you do not mind. It has been years since I have been here, and learning the layout of the city may help. Besides, with some contemplation, I may come upon a few contacts.” She released his arm as awkwardness reared its head once more. She folded her hands in her lap. “Sam once knew many people here. There may be opportunities to leverage that, if they remember me.”

 

[Chordling]

Robert's head turned again as he felt something touch his arm and realized Ms. Stroud had reached her hand over. The contact was not expected, but in a sense it was almost comforting, and maybe it was a sign that Anna was willing to accept his efforts to console her. This in turn caused his nerves to settle, and his mind was able to function at a fuller capacity. Of course, she did not wish to stay with his relatives, she would rather explore the town. Robert wouldn't condemn her for thinking so, he would choose a stroll through the coal mines over the close presence of his relatives any day, but he would not deny that he was displeased with the idea. It was not to say that he resented his relatives and it was not to say that he would prevent Anna from joining them. He loved his relatives, just a less personal distance, and he wanted to respect Anna's integrity.


He was not surprised when she mentioned her deceased spouse. Robert knew these conversations were bound to come up. How could it be helped? Sam was widely acknowledged for his work among the lower cities. Many wondered why Robert and Sam never joined in some kind of power partnership. The senator's answer was simple; he was never asked to. When Robert moved to Silchester, he wanted nothing to do with the lower cities. Of course, this brought another question of its own, but Mr. White refused to give the people a straight answer. "We can tour the city once our brief meeting with Mr. Wilhelm is over," he reasoned. "I am sure your connections will remember you. I have not visited Ashington for 14 years and I am sure all of my neighbors would remember who I am. I would not doubt their memories," he assured.

 

[Erica]

Anna nodded at his reassurance. Of course the people would remember. It was easy to forget that they were known names. In Silchester, they lived and worked among others who had similar notoriety - usually less than theirs, but still known for their service to the people and the crown. Here, it would be different. People in Greenwich rarely met a Senator. Plus, if Valerie’s recounting of recent events was any sign of the flow of news to the town, they wouldn’t hear of any manhunt for some time.


A small, stoic smile emerged as she gathered herself. He was lending her his strength, of course. It was in his best interest to keep her whole, so why would he refrain from offering her aid?


There were a dozen reasons, of course, not the least of which was the scandal that would ensue if someone saw them at this moment. But there was no one here to see, and apparently no news reached here in any case.


“You are no doubt right,” she said, adding a soft, “Thank you,” as she turned to face him slightly on the bed.


Only then did she hesitate. “I...” she began, pausing once before she pushed on, ignoring the tightness around her eyes from her recent crying and pretending she didn’t look like they had been travelling all day. “I must apologize for Andrei’s... for allowing him to strike you. I do not know if I could stop him, but I knew we had to flee.” She took a breath. “And you were rather disinclined to listen at the time...” she added with a half smile. It was not a joking matter, of course, but that didn’t stop her from trying.

 

[Chordling]

Robert suddenly felt his shoulders relax when Anna seemed more herself. The fatigue in her expression, and no doubt his, was still evident. It was not the usual sort of tiredness they were used to, either. Political exhaustion was much different than this. The exhaustion they faced now was much closer to life and death.


Ms. Stroud's relief seemed to waver, but only briefly as she continued to speak to him. Her words back the smallest feelings of agitation, but he understood the lighthearted nature of her smile. "I suppose a hit to the head is better than a shot to the chest," he tried to add, instantly regretting his choice of words. Robert's face grimaced, though very minutely, and he had a sudden desire to change the subject again. He didn't berate himself too harshly. After all, he was known as an orator, not a comedian.


A large crash sounded from the kitchen, followed by a series or short, high pitched screams and crazed laughter. Robert let off a sigh and rolled his eyes, then removed himself from the seat beside Anna to investigate. His mother eventually reigned him into their kitchen chores and had him clean up the broken set of glass. The rest of the evening was spent rather simply. Valerie prepared dinner (barely avoiding a house fire), and aunt Edith attempted to entertain the night with stories of her nieces and nephews with occasional interruptions from her sister. Robert had been the first to leave the living area the moment the opportunity was given.


Chapter XIV

The next morning came to Robert much earlier than he wished. Most of his night had been spent tossing and turning, and when he finally was able to get to sleep, he had fallen off the frame of the bed in his slumber. Thankfully his tumble had not been loud enough to catch the attention of his resting comrades.


He had not forgotten what they were to accomplish that day. Once Anna and Andrei were up and ready, he would lead them into town and meet with his old friend. Until then, he suffered more of his mother's and aunt's doting.


"Please, mother, you will wake Mr. Volos," he tried to excuse, but that didn't stop her.

 

[Erica]

Anna had slept well, more due to her exhaustion than true comfort. Robert’s family was kind, and the bed was comfortable enough, but she should have lost sleep due to all the unresolved matters she faced. Instead, she fell asleep nearly as soon as her head hit the pillow. This provided the benefit of a longer night of sleep - up until she heard a thump from the room next door.


It had taken her a full minute to remember where she was, another two to discern that it was Robert moving around next door she had heard. Then she heard voices in the kitchen. She looked at the one dress she had and sighed. It would have to do for now. At the very least, she could wash herself and attempt to look presentable.


Seizing the opportunity, she grabbed her dress and snuck into the bathroom wearing just her undergarments. Feeling victorious that she had not been spotted, she ensured the door was closed and then locked it - or at least she believed she had. The lock turned freely, leaving her to guess which setting actually barred the door. She tugged on the door once, satisfied that it was barred, but unaware that the door could stick in the swollen frame.


Then she drew her bath and washed her face. Ten minutes later, she had undressed and lowered herself into the bathtub. Both her dress and a towel hung nearby for her use when she was done. She sighed contentedly at the prospect of both scrubbing off the dirt from their mad flight the day before and soaking for a while. Her hair was pinned up and her eyes closed. She was fully submerged in the water when she nearly drifted off to sleep again; the fatigue of the last few days was catching up to her, and the water melted away her normally unwavering attention to the time.

 

[Chordling]

While Anna sneaked off into the only available bathroom in the White's household, Robert endured his mother's presence and cooking. Today's menu included over fried eggs with burnt-to-the-crisp bacon and a cup of coffee. He slowly picked at the plate of food, consuming only whatever seemed edible, and finished off the warm beverage. Coffee always seemed to prove itself invincible against his mother's culinary skills. Robert's father would certainly agree, were he alive. The smell even drew Andrei from his rather awkward sleeping position on the couch.


"You don't want more?" Robert's mother pestered as she stood by her son with another full plate of breakfast. In the politest manner possible, he simply declined, then stood from his seat to get himself ready for the day. He was still in his sleepwear, which was no more than an undershirt and a pair of trousers. Robert was sure there would be at least one set of clothes left from his father in the closet; if not, they would have plenty of opportunities to purchase newer garments at the market.


The first thing Robert felt needed to be accomplished was a bath. Given the strange events that had recently passed, there wasn't much time to keep up with his personal hygiene. Robert's last bath was back at Anna's, before they discussed plans about their second meeting with the King and Blackcastle Engineers. Yes, a good wash was in order. But before he headed towards the bathroom, he rummaged around his room to see if there was any appropriate clothing for him to borrow. The only article he was able to discover was his father's old mining outfit, which was quickly thrown out of site before any hellish memories could return. Robert would just have to recycle his button down and vest.


It had been many decades since Robert's old home was built. One could probably guess it was at least two decades old by the time Valerie and Carter had bought it. Despite the house's age, it still held up fairly nicely. Granted, the woodwork and plumbing needed desperate fixing, and some of the old handles didn't work as well as they used to. So when Robert had entered the bathroom, he had not realized that it was a broken lock which tried to prevent him from disrupting Anna, and assumed the door handle just needed an extra prodding.

 

[Erica]

The chaos of the past couple of days slowly melted away in the heat of the bath. Anna's eyelids became heavy, then slowly drifted closed. This temporary but necessary respite was short-lived, however.


She did not know how long she drifted off for, but she awoke when she heard the door opening. She started to sit upright but immediately thought better of it. Water splashed over the edge of the tub as she quickly sank back down into the water, using the side of the tub to conceal herself as best she could. Her eyes dart to the towel nearby as her mind raced. It was probably Valerie, come to check on her.


Then she saw Robert in the doorway and felt heat rush to her cheeks. "Robert!" she practically squealed. It only took a moment's calculation to discern that the tub would not conceal everything, given his height. So she shifted in the water again (more water hitting the floor) to grab the towel and hold it up, blocking his view as best she could.

 

[Chordling]

It did not take Robert long to fully comprehend originally why the door had been so difficult to open. Just after the lock had given into a mighty pound, Anna's shriek easily filled the smaller space and made its way to the kitchen. No doubt, the noise had caught the others' attention. Robert nearly lost control of himself when he spotted Anna in her distress, and did his best to turn the other way without skidding against the newly saturated floors. Desperately he tried to apologize for his intrusions, but embarrassment had put such a lump in his throat that his words refused to deliver. His speech would have been sincere if anything he attempted to offer was actually audible. The images he saw were not lewd, but they were not exactly easily forgotten either. When Robert successfully made it out of the bathroom without passing out, he made sure to close the door, and tightly.


The lump in his throat refused to go away, and Mr. White was sure his entire visage had turned a bright red. He raised his hands over his face as he slowly sunk his back against the wall. In that moment there had been only one thing on his mind; why hadn't he knocked? The idea was so strong that he couldn't even bring himself to rationalize for his own actions. Robert's mind continued to run with the single thought until someone had spoken to him from the end of the hallway.


"My heavens. What on earth is wrong with you? You look as if you caused a crime." It was his mother. Again, Robert tried to vocalize his guilt, but he was too overrun by his shame. Valeri queerly looked at her son until her mind slowly put together the pieces. The door to the guest room had been open, water was gradually leaking from beneath the bathroom door, and her son did not dare to move. "Oh. My heavens," came the realization. "Should I-"


"Go away, mother!"


Valerie found a new, strange fixation on the nearest picture frame.

 

[Erica]

As quickly as the moment had come, Robert fled without a word spoken. While on some level Anna felt he should apologize, she was more relieved that he was gone. She sat in the water for a moment, her towel half soaked, trying to process what had just occurred.


There was no way he had avoided seeing her. And by the sound of things, her scream had brought the attention of the others.


Closing her eyes, she voiced an uncharacteristic expletive, then proceeded to step out of the tub, drying herself off as best she could and dressing hastily. In the process, she heard Robert scold his mother, trying to send her away. That was something, at least.


Eventually, she opened the door, her head held as high as she could, but she could not manage to look directly at Robert. Not immediately. Maybe she could have said something if Robert was alone in the hall, but Valerie hovered nearby.


“Deary! I cannot imagine!” She glanced at Robert with an mixture of condemnation and sympathy before turning her attention back to Anna. “Can I get you some tea? Or more towels, perhaps?”


Anna felt heat rush to her cheeks, but managed to keep a straight face. “I am quite all right, Mrs. White... Valerie,” she corrected belatedly. “But perhaps more towels are in order. I am afraid I sloshed water all over your floor.”


Valerie smiled in obvious relief that Anna wasn’t holding her responsible and nodded in agreement. “Of course! I’ll fetch some right away!”


Anna watched her head down the hall, glad that her assumption that the towels were not immediately at hand was correct. She glanced at Robert, then back at the floorboards, taking a slow breath to steady her nerves. “I...” While she really should have stayed to assist with the clean-up, at the moment, all she wanted to do was flee. She lifted a hand to adjust her hair, which was still pinned up loosely for the bath. “I shall go finish getting ready. We can leave for town within the hour.” Unsure of herself, she curtseyed to him - immediately feeling silly for doing so - then escaped down the hall to her room, all without looking at him directly.

 

[Chordling]

Though she had genuflected to him in a seemingly awkward manner, Robert would not have noticed. He had buried his face further into his palms the moment Anna had stepped out of the bathroom. His embarrassment was not helped by the fact that his mother had still standing there. While the two women had awkwardly conversed, he continuously prayed that both of them would simply disappear. Eventually the older of the two had left, though her absence was not enough to flush away the vibrant shade of red from his profile.


Robert decided that, once Anna had made her appropriate departure, he would stuff himself into the bathroom and clear his face with some cool water. The grand idea instantly soured when in mid wash, he caught another scandalous sight through the miniature mirror. A damp, piece of cloth limply lied abandoned by the corner of the tub. Though it was difficult to truly identify what the piece of cloth was in its state (for all he knew it could have been a soaked towel), but Robert was certain he knew exactly what it was. In her haste, Ms. Stroud must have forgotten a particular garment that normally wasn't seen by the public eye.


Before his cheeks could flush for a second time, Robert swiftly made his way out of the bathroom while he tried to maintain the calmest manner that he could achieve.


"Just where do you think you're going?" his mother suddenly appeared again just as he was about to exit the hallway. She handed him a towel and a short smile.


"I don't have time to clean," he tried to debate while gesturing the towel back to Valerie. "We leave within the hour."


"Nonsense, you have plenty of time," and Ms. White pointed to the clock on the wall. "Come, help mummy."


"I'm afraid my watch says otherwise," he rebutted, and quickly showed his mother the proper time from his pocket watch. The clock hanging on the wall and his golden artifact were not even close to comparison. Before much more could be said, Robert retracted his pocket watch back into its place, then headed into the living area. Andrea had been sitting at the kitchen table with a cup of coffee in his hands and gave a curious glance. Robert was quick to shoot him a glare that easily spoke for itself. Don't ask anything.

 

[Erica]

Dust filled the air. The combination of mining work and long days meant that most of Greenwich’s residents woke with the morning light. While more than a few miscreants lined the narrow alleyways between the buildings, most people were busy about their daily tasks as Robert, Andrei and Anna reached the main marketplace.


Calling it a main marketplace was generous. The small cluster of businesses had probably once been diverse. Now they were dominated by the “general market”, an establishment that attempted to be everything to everyone but in actuality kept the most basic and easy to store staples on hand, but otherwise served as a middleman for the community. Need flour or a hexbolt? No problem? Need something else? Mr. Wilhelm can get it for you; it might require a day, or two, or possibly a week or a month, but he can get it. For a price, of course. Every service has a price, and although Mr. Wilhelm attempts to keep his fees relatively modest given the community’s limited means, he was in business, after all.


Men in work clothes on the street paused to take note of the three clear outsiders. Even apart from their clothing and cleanliness, their bearing set them apart from the residents of Greenwich. Largely recovered from the morning’s embarrassment (including having Valerie give her back her undergarments), Anna had begun their journey walking with Andrei between her and Robert, unconsciously using the mechanic as a buffer for her embarrassment. As they moved through the narrow streets, however, they had switched positions several times. Some of this was conscious on Andrei’s part to further insulate Anna from curious gazes.


As they arrived, Andrei frowned at the bins of random parts on display in the back of the shop. “I dare say this is going to be more difficult than we thought...”


In the back of the shop, a short, thin man emerged, removing oversized gloves from his hands. He clapped them together, then coughed at the resulting cloud of dust. When he spotted Robert, however, his greying eyebrows lifted heavenward. “Robert? Robert White? My God, man, you are the spitting image of your father,” he said with a smile, even as he looked over the three patrons. “Although he never owned a suit as nice as that one. Not even for services on Sunday.”

 

[Chordling]

"It's rather nice to see you again, Mr. Wilhelm," Robert replied as he slowly wandered through the store while avoiding another conversation around his father and his looks. Ms. White spoke of the very same subject just before they had left the residence. In that particular instance, Robert simply handed his mother his pocket watch to keep track of the time, and noted that if they did not return by four in the afternoon, it would be wise to send for help. "I am here with a few companions of mine. Senator Stroud, who I am sure you have heard of before, and her mechanic, Mr. Volos," Robert continued. Andrei only interrupted his peruse through the containers of spare parts very briefly to make a polite gesture to the store owner.


"Why yes, of course, I have heard of the lovely lady before, and it is a delight to make your acquaintance, Mr. Volos," replied Mr. Wilhelm with excitement as he revealed a large set of spectacles from the folds of his shirt. "Oh, I feel like I haven't seen you for decades! What brings you three around these parts?" He stood behind a wooden counter and then rested his folded hands upon its surface.


Robert had cleverly used the small window of time to fashion a reasonable scenario to explain for his old friend that hopefully would not seem too suspicious. "Ms. Stroud and I were just flying out of Silchester on matters regarding the library. We were meant to land near Mendeleve, but our transportation suffered from a severe condition. We were hoping you may be able to supply us the necessary materials for the repair, or if you are unable to provide for us now, perhaps you have connections."


By now Andrei had sorted every last nut and bolt the store carried and organized them into various piles. "I am not as versed in the mechanical world as I am with politics, so I will allow Mr. Volos to describe what is needed." This suddenly seemed to catch Andrei's attention.


The mechanic stepped forward towards the counter and began to list the various parts he would need and hoped the elderly man bbefore him was aware of what they all were. "Why certainly!" Mr. Wilhelm exclaimed, then he quickly ran to the back storage room and returned with a small sack of metal. "Here, take these for now, I can place an order for the rest this afternoon."


Kindly, Andrei removed the sack from the manager's possession, and counted out the appropriate coin. He asked, "How long do you think it will take?"


"No less than two weeks," Mr. Wilhelm meakly replied as he wiped a speck of dust from his lenses. From hearing those words Robert nearly shook. Two weeks at the least? News revealing the true events at the market square would surely arrive to the lower capital by then. And just weeks after that every one in Aneora would hear of the explosion that took place in the palace. His expression continued to sour as he tried to think of a better solution.


"You don't suppose a bit of extra coin can get those materials here sooner?" he tried to propose.


Mr. Wilhelm shook his head. "I'm afraid not, they need to be ordered from Oredacity, but I'll do the best I can to get them here for you."

 

[Erica]

Greenwich and Silchester differed in more ways than one could count, but there was a common constant: the need to know someone. Mr. Wilhelm was a valuable connection and resource, and Anna treated him as such. No overly flowery greeting or compliments for him, of course. That would not fit him or the situation. But she treated him with courtesy and respect.


She left the negotiations to Andrei. He knew what they needed, and Robert did an outstanding job of explaining why they needed it. She frowned at Mr. Wilhelm’s disappointing news just as she heard someone call out her name. “Anna?”


Anna turned to see a man dressed in brown looking up at her. He had a bulbous nose, cubby, pockmarked cheeks ending in loose jowls around a cleft chin. His eyes were brown and bulging; or it could have been the effect of the spectacles he wore amplifying his already unfortunate features. But he wore a large smile beneath his bushy mustache as he looked up at Anna, running a hand over his balding head and adjusting those spectacles. “Anna Stroud?”


She recognized him almost immediately. Ezra Renehan, a dear friend of the inventor that Sam had been visiting when the “accident” occurred. He had attended the services, never officially stating the suspicions everyone held, but emphasizing to Anna afterwards that if there was anything he could do to assist, she only had to name it. He had given her a small tree, suggesting she might plant it in Sam’s memory. She had never forgotten it.


“Mr. Renehan,” she said with a smile. “I did not expect to see you here. I thought you lived in Mendeleve.”


He nodded. “An impressive memory, Ms. Stroud, although that was years ago. I did; now in Umbrose. I have a small shop there, and do a bit of business,” he said, his chest puffing out with pride. “Mr. Wilhelm remains the best resource nearby for rare parts.” He glanced toward the proprietor in question, taking in the sight of Andrei and Robert as well before looking back to her. “But... What brings you here? I have not seen you in Greenwich since... well, not long after Mr. Messner passed, if you will forgive me bringing up a painful memory.”


Anna smiled and nodded, hoping this would not generate more rumors. She repeated Robert’s explanation, nearly verbatim. “Senator White and I are travelling on Senatorial business - regarding the library. Unfortunately, our transportation failed us before we could reach Mendeleve. We are hoping that Mr. Wilhelm can assist us in acquiring the parts required to resume our journey.”


Ezra’s expressive face registered each statement with appropriate if slightly exaggerated expressions of surprise, concern, then reassurance in turn. “You are in good hands, then. Depending on your need, Greenwich can be a bit of a technological wasteland, but if Mr. Wilhelm cannot procure it, no one here can.”

 

[Chordling]

Mr. Wilhelm's fragile frame leaned to one side as he tried to peek behind Robert's tall shoulder when he heard a new voice enter the air. "Who's that there?" he said with high excitement. "Ezra Renehan, you fat, old man, what are you doing here?" he teased with a wide smile.


The other visitor turned from Anna again to face the store owner. "Who are you calling old?!" he retorted back with a balancing amount of gusto. "I was just talking with this fine young lady over here," he smiled as he rotated slightly in Anna's direction. "I haven't seen the lass in ages! She tells me she and this fine young man are out on 'Senatorial business - regarding The Library', but their transportation ran into a few complications."


"Right indeed," Mr. Wilhelm confirmed with a wink. "I was just getting them a few, spare parts for the repair." He held himself a little higher as if with a bit of pride.


"Making them leave so soon, are you?" Ezra spoke with a frown. His previous tone, which was much calmer and politer, had lost itself in the jest between Mr. Wilhelm. "With no time to explore the wonders of the lower city, I imagine," he pretended to scoff.


"Incorrect," Robert suddenly interrupted, causing the other men to turn their heads. "Mr. Wilhelm had informed me just moments before you arrived that the rest of the necessary parts to complete the repair will not come within two weeks time at the least." You could almost feel his frustration towards their unlucky circumstances trying to seep through his teeth. He meant no blame towards the store owner of course. "We have been granted plenty of time to explore Ashington."


Andrei suddenly decided to jumped in. "Although, If I over heard you correctly, and forgive me for eavesdropping, but you said you had a shop in Umbrose, did you not, Mr. Renehan?"


"Oh, sir, do not apologize. I am the most intrusive man I know," Ezra turned to Andrei as he lowered his head and shook his hand. "I do own a little shop in the next town over, though I cannot provide what you need. It would only take as much time if not more for me to gather the required materials."


"Plenty of time," Robert interrupted again only to strengthen his last argument.


Ezra stood for a moment, not sure how to pick up the conversation. "Oh, don't worry, Ezra, the lad is just a little grumpy," Mr. Wilhelm quickly said in attempt to salvage the quality of the social atmosphere.


"I speak truthfully, do I not?" Robert looked to Mr. Wilhelm with a raised eyebrow and a slight curve in his lip.


"Oh, stop," Mr. Wilhelm nudged Robert as he teased him. "Is there anything else you rotten kids need before I kick you out so you don't scare away the rest of my customers?" Robert's grew slightly as he was about to shake his head, but then he remembered their rather embarrassing predicament which passed that morning. He swiftly requested a few extra changes of clothing, not for anyone else, only for him. Robert didn't trust himself to estimate the size of his companions and he explained his reasoning to Mr. Wilhelm. The store owner quickly ducked to the back of the store once more and returned with a flat, brown paper package tied together with a thin piece of twine. "There you are, one set of fresh, clothing," Mr. Wilhelm smiled as Robert handed him a small sum of cash.


With most of the money spending finished for the day, Mr. White turned back to Anna and Andrei and began to head for the exit. His was unable to complete his action before Ezra had to make his own departure. The large man still stood beside the female senator as he spoke to her. "It was a joy running into you, Senator Stroud, though I do hope we meet each other again under lighter circumstances in the future," he winked. "If there is anything you three need, I won't be hard to reach," and he gave a smile toward Mr. Wilhelm.

 

[Erica]

The thought of interjecting occurred to Anna no less than three times as the men bantered back and forth. Ultimately she determined discretion to be the wiser course and held her tongue, communicating solely in meaningful looks and the occasional clearing of her throat. Her eyebrows shot upward as Mr. Willhelm called them “rotten kids”; no one had referred to her as such for at least a decade, mostly due to her status as a senator.


Before she could not decide if she liked it or not, Robert asked for a set of clothing. Anna turned away at that to hide a deep blush, unsure why it arose so suddenly. Andrei shot her a questioning glance, but Anna just cleared her throat and donned her best official senatorial smile. “We greatly appreciate your assistance, Mr. Willhelm.” She added as casually as she could. “Not that your standard clothing would not suffice, but is there a dressmaker nearby who might assist me as well?”


The shopkeeper kindly pointed them to a shop owned by one Mrs. Paylor two streets over. By the way he glanced at Anna’s gown, he seemed uncertain the clothing would be up to her usual standard, but Anna reassured him that it would be quite sufficient before making a hasty farewell and heading out into the street. She was having a hard time breathing; the street only helped a little.


As they headed to the shop, she spoke to the two gentlemen with her. “You can leave me with Mrs. Paylor for a few minutes, if you wish to explore. I do not wish to impose.” While she spoke largely to Andrei, her eyes flitted to Robert as she said the last, hating the hesitation she was feeling. Why should one ridiculous incident change anything? With this thought, she defiantly forced herself to look Robert in the eyes. “I am certain you have better things to concern yourself with than my fashion choices.” There, the joke sufficiently recovered her dignity and control - at least outwardly. Inwardly, she was still trying to convince herself of both.

 

[Chordling]

"We will not be far," Robert affirmed, perhaps a little too hastily, and he turned his glance away with every flutter Anna gave him. Even when Anna had confronted him with her final statement he could not bring himself to return his own gaze. It was much harder for Mr. White to overcome the awkwardness from that morning, and it was harder for him to determine why, though he would admit with shame that what he did see was not easily forgotten; perhaps the image was almost... alluring.


No matter, she was correct, her fashion choices and her physical attractiveness were not of his business. There was a town to explore.

~ ~ ~



​

Mrs. Paylor was indeed a tailor, and if she gained a penny for every person who paired her name and career in rhyme, Mrs. Paylor would be a tailor no more. The ever changing fashion industry did not hold as much value to Ashington than it did in the sky kissed city, though it was honest, respectable work, and she knew she would never live in the lap of luxury.


For its purpose, the building seemed rather diminutive. Just about every corner was filled fabric or sewing materials, and with such an unorganized environment, it was nearly impossible to spot the tailor herself. Mrs. Paylor was a stout woman, probably in her mid thirties, and had light, thin, brown frizzes that always refused to be confined under any hairstyle. What she lacked in her coiffure was made up by the other elements of her physical beauty and fashion sense. Her large figure loomed over a wooden table as her hands worked away at a large mass of cloth. With the way her staggered breathing hinted to deep distraction, it did not appear that it would take her too long to recognize Anna's presence, but there had been a moment of silence which stretched itself just long enough to make anyone feel uncomfortable before the large woman quickly jumped her feet from the surprise of a new customer.


"Madame," her thick voice greeted. "What can Mrs. Paylor help with you today?" and she smiled.

 

[Erica]

The afternoon with Mrs. Paylor (the tailor, which Anna appended to the woman's name every time she voiced it, but never aloud for the sake of their combined dignity) passed quickly. There were limitations, of course: the available fabrics only slightly less restrictive than the coin currently at Anna’s disposal. This worked in her favor, in a way. Their aim was to blend in within Greenwich until the ship could be repaired, so subdued and modest clothing in keeping with Greenwich was required.


Mrs. Paylor delivered. After two hours of taking measurements then discussing requirements, fabric, patterns, and style - dotted with side conversation about fashion trends, socialites in Ashington, and a feisty debate about undergarment structure and design - Anna emerged from the shop with a package tucked under her arm, satisfied that her needs would be met. The dressmaker was kind enough to provide a suitable dress that, while not precise to her measurements, would provide Anna with a change of clothing until the other garments were prepared. In general, Anna was pleased with the price; the limited means of Greewich’s inhabitants working in her favor in this particular instance.


Andrei and Robert had awaited her outside, triggering a slight pang of guilt on Anna’s part for causing Robert to wait as she gabbed with Mrs. Paylor. She looked at him for a long moment, debating the merit of an apology, before she suggested that they move along; leading the way at a brisk pace.


In hindsight, this had not been the wisest course of action. She did not know the area and promptly set off down a street that caused Andrei to grab her elbow and lead her in a different direction. Immediately afterwards, a chamber pot was emptied from a window, the resulting waste landing in the street where Anna would have been standing a moment later.


They spent the afternoon wandering the city, Anna taking in the variety of people with interest. They were often recognized, especially when Robert and Anna stood in close proximity. Anna asked a few discreet questions about the city and it inhabitants, and smiled (when Robert wasn’t looking) when local people would greet him kindly. It seemed to irk him - as most things did - but she could see his noble attempts to be polite and, in some cases, even kind. The mines were the one place Anna asked about that Robert refused to go. She was sorry she had asked after seeing his pained expression at the mention of it, however brief. All in all, she learned much about Greenwich - including a festival that would be taking place in a few days.


The evening was spent with Robert’s family in loud conversation while performing quiet activities. Anna had visited Greenwhich but never lived here; the authenticity of the people and their dedication to work (well, most of them - there were many who lingered on the streets) impressed her and reminded her of Sam. It also gave her insight, she felt, into Robert’s work ethic. He might think that none of this place came with him to Ashington, but Anna was beginning to believe he took the best of it with him.

 

[Chordling]

Chapter XV

The next few days had passed with nothing out of the ordinary or any new excitement. During the rather dull interval, Aunt Edith received mail from Robert's male cousin, Sydney Hodges, and insisted that she had to leave for St. Nickels straight away. The letter had announced the birth of Edith's first grandson. It was an invitation she simply couldn't deny. Her departure was only two days prior to the festival. In truth, Robert was slightly relieved that his aunt had made her leave. He had a hard time dealing with one close relative at a time, let alone two.


It was a rather odd way to build up to the most acclaimed festival in Ashington, at least, odd to the definition of Silchester's definition. Back in the Sky Kissed City, events as relatively rave as this would be all the talk for days, sometimes even weeks. Apparently hype building gossip was not culturally fit for the inferior capital district. The festival occurred once a year and usually marked the start of summer. Robert never knew exactly why Ashington was in love with the most dreadful season to ever exist in such a low-lying city (with an abundance of coal mines and extra heat it only made the air unbearable), but he still enjoyed the celebration for what is was; a party free of jealous politicians, free of growing conspiracies, and free of the 'lovely Melva Synder'.


When the morning of the festival arrived, Valerie quickly wakened herself, then ran around the house to wake everyone else up. Robert was first. "You don't want to miss out on the Solar Festival, do you?" the woman coaxed. In reality, he didn't, it would be the first time attending the Solar Festival in eight years. Robert eventually rose from his bed and dressed himself. Despite Edith's absence, Andrei was slept on the sofa, as Robert had observed when he entered the living area. It made logical sense. The only other sleeping choices were the master bedroom or guest room. His room was highly off limits for sharing. It was never shared when he was a child, so why should he let go of his precious privacy now? Robert was also quite certain that any coupled sleeping arrangement would scream ridicule and scandal. It was best if they kept to their original bunks.


"Come on, lad," Valerie spoke as she passed the sleeping mechanic, and she patted him on the head. Andrei let off a sudden snort and quickly shook himself of his sleep. "Breakfast is on the table. We don't have much time!" Habitually, Robert turned down to see his pocket watch, and as usual, it proved his mother wrong. The festival wouldn't commence until the afternoon, but Robert refrained himself from spoiling his mother's excitement. However, by the time both of the men had made their way to the eating table, they could all ready witness the insanity of the festival begin to grow. Large masses of people could be seen just beyond the coal mines dancing to music and stuffing their faces with home made refreshments. Even though Robert had not experienced the large celebration since he moved to Silchester, he understood very well that the commotion outside was merely a mild version of the chaos that could occur. Outwardly he still looked like he could use a pint of coffee. Inwardly he was extremely excited.


When Ms. White knew of her success, she went onto her next victim, Senator Stroud, and practically sang the same teasing phrase as she used before with her son.

 

[Erica]

Anna had always been a morning person and prided herself on her ability to function with little sleep. Perhaps it was just their circumstances, but her fortitude was being tested. With continual activity, they were still no closer to leaving Greenwich. Andrei had done what he could with their ship, but ultimately, they had to wait for the new parts to arrive, and Mr. Wilhelm had reassured them - repeatedly - that he was doing everything he could, but they would simply have to wait.


Waiting was not easy. Every day that passed increased the chances that rumors of their presence in Greenwich would reach the Kings Guard. She hated hiding, but they needed more information first; which meant they had to leave Greenwich. She had attempted to make some subtle inquiries with some of Sam's old contacts, but they had seemed oblivious to her questions and she could not be too overt. This all made for restless nights and early mornings, spent mulling over the same questions.


Thus Anna was already dressed when she heard Mrs. White approaching. Anna had chosen a rose colored dress ordered from Mrs. Paylor; the color was subdued compared to Anna's wardrobe at home, but its dusky hue seemed to reflect Greenwich's consistent coat of dust that tinged nearly every surface regardless of scrubbing. Anna had spent thirty minutes fighting with her hair, but finally had pinned it up in a series of braids that, while plain compared to her usual fashion choices, was impressive considering her limited resources here. Anna opened the door just as Mrs. White was about to open it, startling the poor woman.


"Oh! Don't you look lovely!" Mrs. White beamed with pride as she looked over Anna, then called out over her shoulder to the others. "At least someone understands the importance of the festival!" She took Anna's arm, guiding her down the hall. "And to think, Robert was born here and I think you have outdone him."


Anna had come to understand Valerie's exuberant and affectionate chiding as the woman's primary form of communication, so she took it in stride. She also wished to honor her host, for the woman was at risk for housing them in their plight. So she fed directly into the woman's strength. "Will you tell me more about the festival, Valerie? I have never been in Greenwich for it."


Mrs. White's face lit up at the prospect of telling the tale, "Well, you see, my dear, it is a long tradition. The mine workers need the sun, you see. It's not good to be underground for such long stretches. It warps the mind." She nodded, as if this were common knowledge. Anna smiled back at her as the woman continued while they made their way into the kitchen. "I heard that a long time ago, people used to celebrate the coming of spring for crops. Well, as you might imagine, crops are few around here," she said with a smile, which Anna returned, just before she glanced at Andrei and Robert, nodding a greeting to each of the men in turn as Mrs. White continued. "But that doesn't mean we do not enjoy the sun! Of course not! So we celebrate the sun and the warmth. People get a break from work - which everyone is always ready to celebrate, of course - there are treats for the kids, and drinks for the adults. Sometimes people get carried away, but mostly it is all good, clean fun. Oh! And dancing. Please tell me you dance. Robert always enjoyed it, and I insist that you partake later. It wouldn't be a full festival experience if you didn't. Let's see, what else? Oh! Of course, whether they dance or not, the young people meet and flirt. I met Robert's father at a festival, you know."





As Valerie talked, Anna had exchanged a series of small knowing glanced with Robert; an attempt at a shared camaraderie and understanding of his mother. A genuine smile in place until she started speaking of Robert's father. Suspecting that he did not want to discuss that topic this morning, Anna gently interrupted at that point. "I look forward to it all. I have become reacquainted with a few friends as we wandered the town. I am sure to meet and make more as we enjoy the festival." She paused long enough to look at the kettle and change the subject. "But first, we must be fortified." She glanced slyly at Robert, then back to his mother. She had noticed he looked a little tired, although whether it was physical fatigue or the prospect of the festival, she did not know. "Let us start with some coffee, then perhaps some breakfast cakes. Something light, so that we can enjoy the treats later, yes?"

 

[Chordling]

"Breakfast cakes and hot coffee coming right up!" Valerie smiled as she placed several dishes onto the dining table. Robert naturally rolled his eyes when he noticed the festive shape of his their morning meal. His mother instantly shot him a look and tapped him on his head. "How many times do I have to tell you not to roll your eyes?" she chided as if this were a new habit for Robert. He rolled his eyes again, and Valerie sighed in defeat, then resumed to serve herself a warm, caffeinated beverage.


As they slowly ate through the morning, Robert finally had a moment to make a sufficient glance towards Anna, and suddenly realized her rather alarmingly different outfit. He was so accustomed seeing her in vibrant colors and extraordinary combinations that seeing her in something more "normal" seemed completely abnormal (thought it was not to say that the soft, rose colored dress was ill-fitted). His shock only reminded him of the stressful events that recently came to them. Just a few days ago they had been situated in Silchester, wearing the finest cloths and dining off of silver plates. Now they were in Ashington, the Southern district of the same capitol, and found themselves running away from their own government.


"Robert," his mother spoke. He turned his head when he heard his mother's voice interrupt his thoughts. "Stop drooling over the young lass and finish your food." Robert's face flushed a light pink (close to the color of Anna's dress) and he turned to his plate. "It's not polite, as I am sure you are aware, and I am quite sure she is not nearly as delicious as my baking."


"Pass the coffee," Robert demanded before his mother could say anymore.


Valerie could not hide her teasing smile as she grabbed the pot to her left to pass it to her son. "Certainly."





Breakfast ended soon there after and Valerie kindly offered to do all the dishes that morning. She insisted that the three "kids" head straight for the festival and that she would be sure to join them later. After assuring that his pocket watch was securely fashioned in his vest, Robert headed to the middle of town with Anna and Andrei by his side. The closer they go to the heart of the festival the more difficult it was for them to navigate through the crowd. Music was playing all around them and the smells of fresh food overpowered the smoke filled air. Market owners, fortune tellers, painted ladies and other vendors of their own trade also lined the streets and buried the buildings in celebratory emotion.


Just as the trio had reached the center of town, a boom erupted from the nearest coal mine, and the entire crowd stopped. Heads turned towards the newly formed cloud of dust and waited for it to dissipate in anticipation. Robert immediately feared the worse, but his assumptions were denied when a group of laughing men emerged from the dirt, and they screamed in unison, "Happy Solar Festival!" And the crowd instantly resumed their amusement as if they life itself merely paused. While Robert was not as appreciative towards the miners' commencement of the festival, he was relived to understand that no one was hurt, and that it wasn't some bizarre accident.


Slowly, a mass of people began to come together in preparation for a dance. Robert had been pulled in by a nearby townswoman, and he quickly turned back to bring Andrei and Anna along with him.


"Robert, please forgive my poor manners, but I must sit this one out," Andrei nervously withdrew.


"Forgiveness denied," Robert replied.


"I am not familiar with dancing, certainly not to the level that you are, and if I were, I would have never been exposed to Ashington dancing." What Andrei's statement implied was true. Ashington's style of dancing was much different than Silchester's formal style of dance. "And, if I may speak for you, Ms. Stroud, but she is far more knowledgeable about dance and I cannot say that she is familiar with Ashington dance either. Please, I-"


"What does that matter!" the senator rebutted. "It's not that hard. I can teach you."


"Sir, I do not think that is nece-"


"Oh, stop your whining! Or, would you rather spend your time with one of the ladies," he mocked as he looked to a small formation of seducers. And Robert pulled his comrades into the dancing circle. Traditionally, Ashington dances began at a slower tempo, then gradually sped up. This system was perfect for Robert to teach Anna and Andrei the foot work and choreography. The mass of people started to step in a clockwise motion and Robert began his dancing lessons.