Cunning Fish of the Forest - Chapter 9

My daily routine was set, and I was keen on maintaining the satisfying schedule of today, despite the numerous hurdles that I had to go through. People who doubted, watched, and disapproved of me were scattered everywhere.

“Miss.”

There’s a maid who brings me wash water every morning and comb my hair. Rarely has she ever entered with a pleasant face, as my notorious sleeping habits complicate even the simplest tasks like making the bed, and I have seldom woken up in time to meet my tutor properly.

I believed my morning maid was chosen by rotation, given no one wanted the job due to the bags it added under their eyes.

“You’re up already?”

“I even drew back the curtains.”

“The crows will be shocked that they turn white. If only you were like this all the time, I could revert to my youthful days.”

“Just comb my hair. No, tie it up. Actually, braid it. Make sure it doesn’t come loose.”

“Whether braided or loose, I’ll make sure it’s to your liking, Miss.”

I had thought pleasing others was a daunting task, but it turned out to be quite simple. Just avoiding my usual antics was enough. By keeping quiet like the docile Aronis, I noticed people eventually relaxed and paid no mind to my mischief.

Sitting in front of the mirror, I pressed my swollen eyelids with my thumb. The maid, after smoothing out the blankets once more, stood behind me. The small mirror barely captured up to her shoulders.

That morning, the world reflected in the mirror, filling my bedroom, seemed particularly vibrant. My downturned lips, trying not to reveal any secrets, and my golden eyes contrasted with my auburn hair in an intriguing way.

The maid chose a green ribbon, remembering my request for a braid, and began to show off her elaborate skills. It seemed she was unaware that braided hair was better for running around outside.

The maid and I exchanged glances in the mirror as she completed a hairstyle befitting a lady.

“Is it done?”

“Perhaps.”

The maid took a step back after finishing up with the ribbon, tying it into a bow. In my haste to jump off the chair, my skirt fluttered like a frolicking foal, but seeing my neatly presented self, the maid simply smiled without any remark.

“Miss, try not to run too much.”

Her caution was the last thing I heard before I closed the door behind me.

She was right. it seemed a good idea to be more cautious. Being a lady with proper demeanor, especially after my betrothal was announced, was the image I aimed for. Running around wildly was now strictly off-limits, despite being a habit hard to break.

“Good morning, Miss.”

“Good morning.”

“Where are you headed?”

“To see Mother.”

As I carefully descended the stairs, gripping my long skirt to avoid tripping, everyone I passed greeted me with smiles. A stark contrast to my past, more reckless self. My efforts to preserve my precious routine could only be appreciated with a sense of empathy.

The patience of crows circling unripe fruit without swooping down became almost admirable.

Heading to greet my mother, located on the opposite side and a floor below my bedroom, demanded physical effort. Had I been able to leave without catching her attention, I would have ceased this act long ago.

Walking elegantly without getting tangled in my flowing skirt was no easy feat. I managed to catch my breath just as I entered the corridor.

“Oh, did you sleep well, Miss?”

I ran into a maid carrying a laundry basket. I responded with a light smile.

“Yes, I slept well. Where is Mother?”

“She’s inside right now.”

My mother, known for her particular temperament, insisted on maids that suited her taste. The laundry maid stepped aside, allowing me to pass and inadvertently ushered me into the room unprepared.

“Mother.”

Facing my mother, who was fully adorned from head to toe at dawn, naturally tighten my chest. As I drew closer to her flawless beauty, an unwarranted sense of inadequacy made me focus on the tips of my shoes.

At the perfect moment, Mother turned around from her position near the window corner. Her sharp, black eyes swiftly appraised me.

“Who did it for you?”

“What, Mother?”

“Your hair.”

“A maid. She said it looked neat and nice.”

“There’s no need to be so tense since I asked because it looks good.”

Mother lightly touched her own tied hair and slowly turned towards me. Her expression softened slightly, perhaps due to the small bird perched on the outside windowsill.

“You’re going to pray today as well.”

“Yes.”

In the inner castle where the Ludig family predominantly resides, there’s a chapel crafted by renowned architects of our time. Except on special occasions, it’s a place reserved for our family, largely undisturbed by outsiders.

I shyly presented the shoes and skirt I had chosen, hoping for Mother’s approval.