"Faina," someone called just as I was about to respond to Ariel's statement. I turned and was met with one of Mother's sons. I still don't know who is who. "I'd like to introduce you to someone," he said. A middle-aged man stepped forward, grabbed my hand, and gave it a light peck. I was stunned and it took me a minute to regain myself and quickly curtsy.
"Faina Alden, it's a pleasure to meet you," I said before looking up.
"Dale Hayden, the pleasure is mine," he replied.
"I'm sure Lord Hayden would be interested in you, seeing as you are not just Mother's precious daughter, but the youngest professor in the academy," he said with a malicious smile.
"That is interesting," the man said.
"You should tell him about your research," he pestered.
No one knows about my research; only a few have a vague idea of what my research is about, but they don't know the clear picture. It's a closely guarded secret, not because I don't trust those around me, but because the implications of my work are profound and potentially dangerous. The depths of my research could reshape our understanding of the Large Worms and their impact on human physiology, but it also treads into areas that many might find unsettling.
Mother and Principal assume I'm trying to make a new vaccine to prevent Large Worms, and I didn't clarify because it's best that way. Their assumption provides a convenient cover, allowing me the freedom to explore without undue scrutiny. The truth is, my research goes far beyond a simple vaccine. I am delving into the genetic manipulation of these organisms, exploring ways to not only halt their growth but also to harness their unique properties for regenerative medicine. It's an uncharted territory fraught with ethical dilemmas and potential backlash.
Why would I want to talk about it to a stranger? Discussing my research with someone unfamiliar with the nuances and risks could lead to misunderstanding or every one finding out I'm ill.
"I'm quite interested in the project of the youngest professor," he said, and I gulped.
"I'm sorry to disappoint you, Dale, but Faina's research is for her ears and mine if she wants," Mother said, appearing behind me.
"Oh, uh... Lady... Duchess," he stammered. Why is he scared?
"What else do you need from my daughter?" she asked, and the man stepped back with a smile. A few people joined the small group to steal an opportunity to speak to Mother.
I tuned them out as my gaze landed on a figure walking away through the balcony. I tilted my head and stared, trying to make out who it was, but I couldn't.
"Please, excuse me," I said to Mother, and she nodded. I followed the person. The figure seemed familiar, and I felt an urge to find out who it was.
I walked out and looked in the direction the person walked, leading to an empty hallway. I walked slowly until I ended up on another side of the building. I stood looking around, surprised that no one was there, but just as I was about to head back, a voice spoke, startling me.
"Why are you following me?" I heard.
"Oh, I thought I saw someone I know," I said, looking in the direction the voice came from. It was dark.
"Someone you knew?" he asked.
"It's nothing," I said and turned to leave hurriedly, but a hand grabbed mine, surprising me.
"Who did you have in mind?" he asked, and I looked up to meet familiar gray eyes.
"Teon?" I exclaimed, and he looked at me in shock. What's surprising? "Teon, right?" I asked again, with uncertainty.
"Yes," he said as his gaze softened. He let go and stepped back a bit.
"I had no idea you were here," I said.
"Yes, well... I decided to come," he said. I'm really grateful.
"Thank you," I said, and he looked up. "For coming," I finished, and he nodded. It's so awkward, should I just leave? "I'll..." I started but trailed off. He turned and looked outside.
"It's been a very long time, right?" he said, and I nodded. I haven't spoken to Teon in a long time, but I did see him a few weeks ago.
"Last time I saw you was a few weeks ago," I said, and he turned to look at me. "You were sparring with the juniors," I explained, and he nodded.
"I saw you," he stated. Then why did you act like you didn't? Was he angry that I didn't speak to him?
"Oh," I exclaimed, looking away.
I just remembered I said I'd ask Teon a question when I turned eighteen, and now the opportunity is right in front of me and I can't bring myself to use it.
"How's your research coming?" he asked, and I turned to meet his gaze again.
"Oh, it's..." It's not too good; things are on a halt. "It's fine," I said with hesitation.
"That's good to know," he replied. Should I ask him?
"I heard from Mother, you're staying at the imperial palace now, right?" I asked, and his eyes widened.
"Y... Yes, she told you everything," he said but sounded uncertain.
"Yes," I replied. "Are you okay?"
"Huh?"
"I... I was just... worried because you're staying there alone and..." And everyone wants you dead. I couldn't possibly say that, so I trailed off.
"Are you worried?" he asked, and I looked down. Should I not? I can't help feeling worried. They have many ways to kill him. If he's not careful, they will.
"I am," I admitted. I looked at him to see his expression, but there was none. His expression was blank.
"Thank you," he said quietly. There was a long pause, then he finally spoke. "Do you want to go back inside?" he asked. I don't want to; I haven't asked him yet. Should I forget it?
"I..." I looked down and held my dress tightly. "Maybe I should," I said, turning to go back inside.
"Oh, I forgot," he suddenly said, and I paused. "This is for you. Happy birthday," he said, holding a small box. He bought me a present. I felt a small blush crawl up my cheeks as I smiled.
"Thank you," I said, collecting it. I had no intention of paying attention to the presents all those guests brought, but the fact that Teon got me a present made me happier than the fact that they showed up. The others must have been forced by Mother to be present, so I am exceptionally grateful to Teon.
"I'll... I'll take my leave," he said and turned to leave, but my body suddenly moved on its own.