Just for a month!
Liam finally agreed that I will stay at the lodge for a month. I couldn't even imagine myself jump in excitement just like a little kid who had just received her first ever Christmas gift. I even hugged him too-- accidentally. (Giggled)
''Yes!'' I was so happy that I grin from ear to ear. not only because he agreed but also, he told me that he'll be watching me all throughout that timeframe. Well, it's not a problem at all! In fact, I like it. He-he (mischievous smile)
''JUST.FOR.A.MONTH. But I will surely watch your every move.'' He spoke seriously. And yeah, it was more of a warning than a statement. However, my fluttered heart wanted to think that he cares for me. Ha-ha! I know it's a hopeless romance though.
''Then help me within that timeframe.'' I saw his brow creased in question upon hearing me. ''I believe you have a dream for this place, for this kingdom. You might perhaps want to create a better country, impose equality, provide good and comfortable life for all its citizen, both young or old, noble or peasants… And for that, I want to help.''
He looked at me in wonder then he mockingly laughs. Eh? I am being serious here but his laughter sent a clear message---I'm a crazy woman thinking of stupid things and groundless ideas!
''And what made you think that I have thought of such a stupid and ambitious dream?!'' His face shadowed with ridicule.
''You won't create your group and create an institution just for nothing. And don't tell me that you only want to do charity for the people. Choosing to stay in this village despites the fact that you can venture other greener regions is not a meaningless sacrifice.'' I blurted out as I stare at his eyes.
''You might fool yourself but you can't trick other people from looking into your heart. The children and the grown-ups residing at the lodge, they consider you as a hero. Just imagine what you can do more for them if you let the king know what's happening in his own kingdom.'' I continued.
I could sense the sudden change in his mood but he quickly went back to being a cold and rude guy. Tsk!
''I don't know where you got your ideals missy, but your wrong. Totally wrong.'' He sneered then faced his horse and caresses its hair. He might be jerking at my words but his eyes show an unspeakable thought.
BIG FAT LIE! I wimped inside me. I want to convince him more but it's up to him to realize the real content of his heart's desires.
''This kingdom is not your ideal type of a government where prince and princesses or kings and queens lived for their people. It consists of dangerous individual lurking everywhere, looking whom they want to devour. The government officials don't serve the people; it was the other way around.'' I saw how he lowered his head in anger and disappointment after voicing his thoughts.
''Then all the more we need to do something to get the king's attention.'' I replied. His back facing me.
''The king and his government knew about this but still, they chose to keep silent. They have long washed their hands of whatever corruption is happening in this country.'' He derided. "We've been trying to reach the King about the inhumane movements but they have shut the gate for peasants like us.''
I saw how he clenched his fist in anger and I can feel his frustrations though he wouldn't say it all. This man has a good heart and a sense of justice... why didn't he became a king or prince instead? I'm sure he will be a great ruler if given a chance.
''Then let's try again... but this time, let's use a different approach.'' I suggested.
''Then let's hear your resolution, missy.'' Liam suddenly turned around with his arms folded across his chest.
''I am a blogger. I write stuffs about the places I've been to and publish it on my site.''
''And how does that help----''
''Millions of people all over the world read my articles. My point is, I can document the problems faced by the citizens of this kingdom then we can present it to the king.'' I interrupted. Though I could see doubt in his eyes.
''Or better yet publish latest news for people to read. Both young and old, the nobles and the slaves too. And who knows it will reach the king's ears as well.'' I added.
''I don't know what kind of country you came from but your ideas are superb. It's simply unthinkable and impossible.'' Liam scoffed.
"In my country, pen is mightier than sword. If a journalist writes a baseless information about someone, especially government officials, it will fuel the people's interest. Such baseless information can tarnish one's reputation. Some will believe it but some won't. My point is, this method may catch the King's attention and may reach the other regions as well.'' I explain further.
"Tsk! Your delusional brain and stupid ideas! It will attract you more troubles.''
"I'm not afraid cause I know you'll protect me." I gave out an honest smile.
"Tsk!" Liam scoffed then pulled Shadows near the stream to drink.
**Unknown to Yana, Liam's heart skips a beat when he saw her sweet smile and heard those simple words. Dang! What's wrong with you?! He scolded himself silently as he glances at the woman sitting on a rock waiting for him. Then he smiled inwardly. **
***********
"You'll be their next target!" The old man yelp at the old woman in front of him. ''Are you going to risk your life and your granddaughter's just for his sake? He'll come out on his own when it is his time!''
''But when? When is his own time?'' The woman growled. ''We have wasted so much years and we've been waiting for such a long time but nothing ever happened''
''But you and your granddaughter's life is at risk now!''
''I know the risk but I am ready to face it. Besides, the fulfilment of the prophesy of old is now. So If something bad happen to me, please watch over my granddaughter.'' She pleaded.
''But Milcah...''
''I am too old now and I have lived a long life anyway. so might as well use my remaining strength to live a worthy cause.'' The old woman chuckled.
''It's time for fate to fix the broken road and create a new path for the lost heir.'' She added. ''With the woman on his side, she will show him the way to his destiny.''
However, the old woman stopped for a minute then got back to him after.
''It was on their fate to meet each other but their circumstances won't allow them to be together.'' She sadly uttered. "Now it's up to them to carve their own destiny once everything is on its rightful place."