MIDSUMMER’S COURT (part 8 of 14)

[sidhe_faerie]

 ~~~~<O 8 O>~~~~

Princess Endora pushed away the stack of correspondence and invitations with a sigh. “Dionne, have you finished packing?”

“Just about My Lady. What shoes do you want for the ball?” Dionne held up two pair of silk slippers. One pair had a higher heel than the other.

“The lower ones for the ball but pack them both. My court dresses are a bit long and I need the heel.”  

“Shall I pack your riding boots?” Dionne wrapped the shoes carefully in tissue and put them in the top of the smaller trunk.

“No. I won’t be riding. Dionne, don’t pack breeches and tunics either. This is strictly ‘princess time’.” Endora told her.

“Yes My Lady. I put the crystal dagger in a pouch inside your travel bag. The gold sword belt is in there as well.”

“Put the gold belt in the trunk and don’t forget my crown. I want the one that is encrusted with diamonds.”

“I have it packed already along with the plain one for Court.”  

“Ah. Good thinking.” Endora nodded. She stood and stretched. She had been sitting too long.

“I have packed three court dresses and the ball gown. Should I pack more dresses?” Dionne asked.

“That should be enough. Pack the new corset too as well as the new stockings.”

“I have already. I have packed under shifts, unmentionables and night dresses as well.” Dionne ticked off the list on her fingers. “I think that is everything.”   

“Sounds like it. Close up the trunks and lock them. The footmen will come for them later.” Endora told her. “Have you gotten my travel clothes ready?”

“They are over there waiting for you.” Dionne pointed to a bench under the window.

Endora nodded. “Have you sent a message to Della to tell her you are coming?”

“Yes. She is very excited to see me. We haven’t seen each other since we were young. My lady, do you know a Prince Brandon?”

“He’s from the Northern Realm. The youngest I believe. Why?” Endora looked at the maid questioningly.

“He is coming to the ball. Della said that he is coming there to meet his betrothed. She seems to think it may be you.”

“That’s nonsense. I would know if I were being betrothed.” Endora thought for a moment. A betrothal was a big enough thing to warrant a horse. “Damn!”

“My Lady!?” Dionne was surprised at the Princess’ use of course language.

“That is what they are doing. The horse. A new tunic. They are all bribes to get me to agree to be betrothed. I should have thought of that.” Endora groaned in annoyance.

“What are you going to do?” Dionne asked.

“I don’t know yet. I have to think about it. I’m going for a ride on my bribe.” Endora pulled on her riding boots.

“Your what?” Dionne looked confused.

“The horse Dionne. I’m going for a ride on Sugar Plum. I’ll be back before supper.” Endora left.

Dionne was still a bit confused. A prince of the Northern Realm didn’t sound like a bad catch. The only problem was Princess Endora wasn’t looking to catch one. This was not going to be the ‘happy ending’ the Queen and Crown Princess have planned.

Dionne locked the trunks and went to finish her daily chores.  

PART 9