Holodream

Chapter XI

[Original story formerly published in paper by the Star Trek Italian Club, which graciously granted permission to publish it digitally. Cover and drawings by Chiara Falchini.]

Chapter XI

After dinner, Lady Gwyneth invited them to spend the evening in her sitting room, where a minstrel delighted their ears with music and tales. At a certain point Alisander, trying to impress Deanna, plonked away a few passages on a harpsichord, showing some ability; Fiona sang along a ballad with her beautiful voice.

Weary because of the long march of the day, soon enough the guests took their leave to go to bed, with many thanks to the castellan. Viviana waited the other ones to be gone, then she addressed the woman:

"Lady Gwyneth, your hospitality is exquisite, and we'd really like to enjoy it for some days more. Unfortunately, urgent obligations call us elsewhere, and we must depart tomorrow already."

The castellan showed her regret:

"It's a shame, having guests is a rare pleasure for us. Are you sure you cannot stay for at least another day, Sister Viviana?"

"Alas, this isn't possible, Milady, and I say it with regret."

"I see. Very well, in this case I'll get you some travel provisions, and I'll give you horses", Viviana inhaled, preparing to protest, but the noblewoman prevented her with a gesture, "I'm sure you'll find a way to repay or to return them: Bryan Darksword spoke very well of you all, but particularly of you, Sister Viviana", she added with a smile. The young woman blushed as a child caught red-handed, but controlled herself:

"You're very generous, Milady. Your trust is well placed."

She took her leave with a curtsy and went upstairs to her room. She was tired, but she wasn't sleepy at all, therefore she opened the French door and exited on the balcony. She leaned on the balustrade, lifting her eyes to the starry sky; she tried in vain to recognise the constellations, but the world of Sword & Sorcery was totally invented, including the stars shining upon it, which consequently didn't resemble to any known configuration.

The soft sound of an opening door made her turn; Bryan's tall shape appeared on the threshold of one of the rooms. Catching sight of her, he addressed her with a greeting gesture and joined her.