---

Isabella shook her head silently. She just wanted Gracie there, that was all. With a deep inhale and exhale, Isabella stood straighter, seemingly doing her best to put on a calm face and get her nerves under control again. Okay, if Gracie was with her she could do anything. Simple as that. She could do it. Isabella dusted off part of the cloak she was wearing, taking one last look at her own appearance as much as she was able too. Nothing seemed out of place, so Isabella left the room with hopefully Gracie following behind her.

"Lead the way." She quietly stated to the waiting slave girl. Isabella noticed the girls nervousness, but dismissed it for now.

Gracie followed the princess - she hoped the girl didn't use this an excuse to simply have her speak the entire time as she did sometimes. She knew of the woman's anxiety - but the world wouldn't be any nicer to her because of it. As the maid looked down the hallway with a sigh, she'd see that they were guided for a few turns into what was a medium sized hall - the ceilings went up fifteen feet, and it was no larger than thirty feet long and twenty feet wide. Compared to her home, this was tiny for what a noble would likely have. Perhaps it was a sign that they lacked wealth, or maybe it was more that they were practical.

The hall had no guards - perhaps a statement of their safety - and the slave gestured towards a table with some ten seats, gesturing briefly for them to sit down in the two closest to Zarva and a muscular nobleman with a sword at his hip. "A-apologies my lord. I will try to be faster next time. Forgive me." The slave seemed a little frightened, but the noble gestured her away with annoyance. Wordlessly, their escort left the room.

"Lady Isabella, correct? I am Lord Hasingwrath, though you have met my daughter, Zarva, already. She told me you had a wonderful voice." The lord spoke with a deep, practical tone, and the word 'wonderful' seemed to roll awkwardly off his tongue. Zarva was looking a little downwards, as if feeling guilty of something. "Please, sit. She tells me you come from some sort of fantastical land, but I hope either our ale or mead will bring you pleasure after your journey, little though it may be for you.."

No servants were around the table - instead the place was already prepared, with the lord pouring his drink from a large bottle-like container meant for the purpose.

---

Isabella followed quietly, easing her nerves back under control as she walked through the hallways. A few of her guards spared her a friendly salute and wave, but for the most part she remained impassive. The princess was quickly beginning to realize that this place was not as ostentatious or decorative as her home was. Everything seemed so...impersonal. Sharp edges. Practical, one could say. She almost felt mildly suffocated walking through here.

Once inside the room, Isabella took a few seconds to look it over. She might not have been the most attentive at times, but she did have an education and knew how to work a court - in theory. The dining hall was much like the rest of the castle. Practical and not meant decoration. Almost the exact opposite of the opulent palace that she grew up in. One could tell much about a lord from how the state of their castle - something she learned from her younger brother.

She got the impression they weren't very...'fun' people.

Isabella watched their escort leave with mild worry. The slave was a sweet girl who seemed far too nervous, and the nobles seemed far too indifferent - but she pushed the thought aside as she took a seat where it was indicated that she sit. She took a seat closest to Zavra, still feeling terrible about having just walked out.

Of course, all these thoughts of worry didn't display on her face. As Lord Hasingwrath spoke, Isabella took note of the distinct lack of guards and servants in the room. Her older brother said feasts or official meetings between nobles that didn't have some sort of guard presence could only end badly. She decided to shove that worrying thought out of her mind for now, though and focus on the table in front of them. They hadn't set out any food yet - odd, then where were the servants? They had drink set out, but it smelled strongly - like the stuff the palace smith drank instead of the sweet smelling wines she was used too.

Ah, if her younger brother was here he'd be having a field day with impish insults about this places decor and the order of things.

For a few moments, Isabella didn't reply. She took the mug of ale - it was only courteous after all - and for a few seconds simply stared at it. Ugh, the smell was appalling but she couldn't turn down their hospitality. She almost wanted to vomit.

"...Zavra," She began quietly, blushing a little from the compliment. "Is too kind. She is far better herself."

Okay, words were said and she was doing well! Yes, good good. She bought the mug to her lips, taking a taste of the strong alcohol, instantly regretting it as she was wholly unused to it. When she had been invited to a feast she thought there would be a whole crowd of people, not simply the four of them. Far less nerve wracking than she thought.

The lord was composed, nodding as he looked over his guest with keen eyes as if trying to observe her. "I would tell you not to be modest, but my little Zarva here-" The lord patted his daughter affectionately a couple of times on the head, which she obviously thought was 'uncool' in front of her newest friend. "-has been obsessed with songs. We've been trying to find some written down for her."

Whatever harshness this landscape had instilled in the lord broke down the moment he observed his little girl with a smile, bringing his hand back. As he looked back to Isabella though, his usual expression returned. "I sent a small detachment - a knight and a couple regulars into one of the ruins recently. We'd heard news they may have had some ancient knowledge ..." For a moment the lord listened to the ever present, low rumble of the storm that filled the halls. "... I doubt they will return now though, given his fury. May the Windmothers have mercy on them."

Seeing his daughter's face drop, the lord somewhat shifted gears. "I know not why you travel, but I'd be willing to offer you something in aid for your trip. Treasure, information, perhaps a slave or two. Zarva is precious to me, and if there is something in this ruin that will make her smile more then I want it for her."

---

At the lords insistence Isabella's blush deepened, trying to hide her embarrassment. She wasn't that good - couldn't be. Her voice was too quiet to reach the Divine. Some had said her inability to speak properly had been a bad omen of some sort when she had been born, but her parents quickly quashed that rumor in the courts. When she was 'sent away' those rumors resurfaced in quiet circles, though - and her parents didn't make much effort to dissuade them. She understood the delicate position, though.

She took another small drink of the ale, shaking her mind away from those thoughts as the lord continued speaking. Detachment of knights to an old ruin? Likely wouldn't return? Her mouth turned into a subtle frown as she placed the mug back on the table. The 'Wind mothers' again. Perhaps they were some sort of Divine spirit? They must be very angry with these people if they raged so against the land.

"...?" She turned her head to Lord Hasingwrath as he changed topic. Information on the surrounding land would be a great boon to her soldiers. They didn't even know that this storm was coming and if Valiant hadn't told her then they likely would have been caught up in it. So he wanted her and her people to go into this ruin and get whatever information they had, then? The offer was good, in theory at least. Her soldiers were capable. The ones that could fight anyways. The others that couldn't all had their reasons for going, be it Edith's curiosity about the world outside the Monarchy or Lana's desire to be something other than a thief.

She tilted her head curiously, looking to Gracie to see if she had any thoughts on the matter.

Gracie put a comforting hand on Izzy's thigh - she was doing well, largely on the account of deciding to at least show up. However, the decision was hers. Despite being the older of the two, Isabella had been at least given a basic education in the art of diplomacy and intrigue while herself had been busy learning how to decorate. Both were important, but one was obviously more important right now - and especially in this place.

Isabella would not be alone, though. She'd hear a familiar voice rang out in her head. "The decision is yours, princess. However, no stay is rent free in this land. But this could be dangerous for your followers if you decide they should protect you. I'd carefully consider what you want if you do accept."

---

After receiving nothing but a comforting hand from Gracie, Isabella turned her head back to the mug as a few quiet seconds passed. Of course Gracie wouldn't have any advice for her. Still, it at least made her feel better to know she was there. As soon as Valiant's voice rang through her head though, Isabella gave a quiet gasp, flinching mildly and nearly fumbling with the mug. She had almost completely forgotten about the sword she was currently holding. Valiant's words however, did ring true somewhat. She'd either have to pay out of her own pocket with money, or this. Her guards were well trained, and it'd be easy for them to defend themselves.

Perhaps she might find something relating to her own interests there?

"Huhm..." She sighed, sitting the mug on the table. "Very well. I will go."

The Lord paused for a moment, nodding. "Very well. We will give one of your followers the details and discuss the payment on return." Zarva had been largely quiet, looking downwards into her lap and avoiding the high-politics of court. With a sudden clap, Lord Hasingwrath summoned a group of slaves into the room, including the familiar one, each one carrying a dinner plate intended for their guests, and one placing a large platter with extras in the center. The meal wouldn't be extravagant by any means to Isabella - it lacked the spices and other goods that were worked into cooking high quality meals from long distance trade networks - but for the ingredients it had, the meal was well-made and certainly edible. The meat would be a bit extravagant - not something Isabella had tasted before, but something she would likely find an interest in. Perhaps some sort of foreign bird?

Rather than leaving the hall though for the four of them, this time the slave girl stood up against the wall silently awaiting any further orders - though she wasn't able to hide her eyes hungrily looking at the plates periodically. A young, commanding voice, pierced the hall from Zarva's lips. "Slave. Get the wine I received for last winter. And two glasses." The slave blinked a couple times before leaving the room quickly, Zarva turning to her friend. "I've heard this drink comes from more plentiful lands. Maybe like yours? I hope it reminds you of home!"

Soon enough the slave returned, pouring a glass for the young lady before looking a bit at confusion where the second one should go. "For my friend, you dolt." The slave nodded apologetically, hurrying to pour a small bit for Isabella as well.

A second later Isabella would find any cloth in her lap stained with wine as the slave knocked over the glass she had set in front of the princess. With a look of horror on her face, she looked upwards and began to plea with her owners, "M-my Lo-"

The pleas were cut off though, as Zarva slapped the slave across the face - who winced in pain before beginning to yell at her. "That wine was worth more than YOU were, you lazy bitch! And to pour it on my friend!" The young lady's father didn't interfere - no, he even seemed to approve the attitude the young teenager was delivering. "Should I cast you into the storm? With the windmothers!?"

Whoever the slave was, her eyes were only spread out in wide-eyed terror.

---

With that decided, it seemed the dinner would be underway. The Lord clapped, calling for the slaves and servants to bring the food that they had prepared. Once revealed, Isabella realized just how hungry she was. She was still nowhere near used to traveling so much. Before now, she had never really even left the walls of the palace. Having a respectable bed to sleep in for the night, and a warm, hearty meal would be welcome even if the food itself was rather bland compared to what she was used too.

As soon as the plate was placed in front of her, she began eating in a fashion befitting of the noble. She wanted to just eat as much as she could at once, but that'd be rather unbecoming of one of her stature so she took her time, though she didn't get very far until the mention of wine was made. That immediately caught her attention. While she only drank such things during feasts, balls, and other events she wasn't sure how much more she could stand this ale of their's, so having some respectable wine would be welcome.

She would have gratefully accepted the wine with a quiet thanks, had it not ended up on her lap - but her own appearance was a mild concern as to what was happening in front of her. Zavra's attitude went from friendly and childish to bratty and domineering in almost a split second. Isabella's passive face broke into one of surprise only for a moment as she thought of what to do. Her older brother would have already drawn his sword and told Zavra to back off. Her younger brother would have just offered to do the punishment himself only to end up taking her shopping around the city.

Neither of those she could do very well.

Ooh, what should she do? She wanted to do something but...what?

"P-Please mis-"

The twelve year old slapped the young teen across the face again as she tried to apologize - it was obvious that she was becoming increasingly violent and frustrated with the slave. She glanced over at her friend, and seeing the spill in the lap only fueled her more. She'd make sure her friend knew she was valued. A couple more slaps followed, and as the slave began to raise her arms protectively she'd find herself getting kicked in the shin, falling to the floor in pain.

"You wanna spill my feast? Huh?" The twelve year old picked the teens limp body up as she trembled. "Then you'll be it." Zarva sunk her fangs into the slave's throat, who squealed in pain for several seconds until she was dropped to the ground again, with two small puncture wounds piercing her throat as noble towered over her.

"NOW GET OUT!" The slave was busy nursing her wounds, but an encouraging kick convinced her to obey orders as she began to scramble from the room. Zarva looked at her dearest friend again, licking her lips. "Apologies for her incompetency - it seems her blood is more competent than she is ..." With a slight cough, the girl spoke sweetly again. "Anyways, I'm sure me and my father would love to hear you sing!"

Zarva looked on excitedly at her friend.

---

Isabella, was stunned. More than anything, she was terrified, appalled, and a little sick after seeing such a display. It wasn't like she wasn't used to such things. She was a slave, after all. It wasn't uncommon for slaves to be reprimanded as such, even if it had been a little...excessive in this current instance. Even so, she could never feel comfortable with that sort of behavior. One should be kind to their subjects so long as they were well trained and didn't repeatedly mess up...but perhaps that is why the girl had been so nervous. Isabella exhaled, cleaning up the spilled drink off her armor. It wasn't her slave and the girl didn't seem to be in any immediate danger. The wound didn't seem to be particularly grievous.

The smell of blood was getting to her a bit, though. It caused her lungs to itch, but she ignored it.

"U-uhm," Isabella's face reddened at the offer of her to sing again. It didn't seem like it would have been as bad as she had previously thought, if it was just Zavra, Gracie, and Lord Hasingwrath. It'd probably be a good idea not to appear to appalled by what just happened. "I-I suppose..."

Inhale, Exhale. Inhale, Exhale. She could likely sing something from her homeland. Perhaps a Hymn to Gaaldir? Perhaps he could calm the storm outside here if he heard her? At least, that's what she was taught should happen, should her song please him, but her voice was no good in such things. Didn't hurt to maybe try, though. "A-apologies in advance if my voice is too quiet to reach..." She stood from her chair, inhaling a deep, slow breath before she began.

She began, a slow somber voice echoing through the halls over the low rumble of the storm raging outside. At first her voice was indeed, quiet. It could barely be heard above the constant, low rumble. The lyrics for the song seemed to be mostly in a completely foreign language that either the lord or Zavra would recognize, but Isabella seemed to have no trouble singing the words. By the second verse, Isabella's voice was noticeably louder, as if she was singing with more confidence and the melody seemed to reflect that somewhat, or perhaps it was the song itself? Isabella didn't know the entire meaning to the song - but apparently it was sang after there was a brutal battle with a particularly violent tribal society that ended with an entire city being razed and burned, and the people sang for a healing rain from Gaaldir.

Whatever the case, The song was soon finished by Isabella, the princess finishing on a soft, somber, almost pleading sounding note.

Once the hymn was over with, she looked sheepishly away from the the Lord and Zavra, awaiting their response.

The constant storm outside did not ease up - whether it was because the divine spirits could not hear her, had no influence here, or did not exist could all be possibilities, but Zarva - and even the lord a little by extent, seemed to enjoy Isabella's singing. Zarva clapped as Isabella finished. "See! Her voice is so pretty!" The lord didn't exclaim his opinion so enthusiastically, but simply nodded in agreement and raised his glass in a small toast before taking a drink. Gracie gave Isabella's thigh a small pat of congratulations and encouragement as she gave her mistress a small smile.

Afterwards they ate a meal - the lord didn't seem try to hard to press for conversation, only asking questions here and there to make some small talk. Zarva and him discussed some of the other nearby lords briefly, but it became very apparent that no 'kingdom' existed here at all - the monthly highstorms seemed to prevent such things, as they discussed the failure of Lord Turzo in taking over a nearby keep. There were a few mentions of Windmothers again, but little was described about them or who they were.

Slaves entered the room sometimes before leaving to refill drinks and pick up plates, and soon enough the dinner was finished. The lord and Zarva started to bow out, although Gracie interrupted them. "My lord, we have traveled long and on a dirty road. Is there somewhere my mistress could bathe? Preferably in private?" Lord Hasingwrath nodded, beckoning a slave to guide them to the area and give them some directions.

The rest of the meal and evening was pleasant. She was slightly disheartened when her song didn't reach the heavens, but that was nothing unusual. She had never been able to have the ear of the spirits with her songs, but she shoved the thought out of her head and made the best ability possible to enjoy the meal prepared and listen to what was said between Zavra and the Lord. It seemed these storms prevented any sort of permanent civilization being kept here at all. Odd, really. These windmothers must be quite powerful spirits.

When it was over though, Isabella was glad that Gracie mentioned a bath. She'd love to finally get out of this armor and into something a bit more comfortable. With an appreciative nod to the Lord and Zavra, she would follow the slaves to the bath.

Soon enough, the two of them arrived - there was a small room with a large tub in the center, maybe large enough to hold three if they crammed in there. One of the slaves anxiously addressed them. ”H-Hot water my lady?” Letting Isabella relax, Gracie nodded in reply as they scurried off, likely to prepare the water for them. Glancing around, the maid noticed that there were two pipes above the wooden tub - the wood was high quality, something that wouldn’t have been found back home. Maybe made of the same trees outside that withstood the storm? Gracie’s thoughts were cut short as she suddenly realized she had a job to do.

Heading behind her mistress, the maid shut the door - the pipes made it unlikely the slaves would have to personally pour the water, though she was surprised this place had any sort of technology for how dour it was. ”Please relax, your highness. You did very well at dinner.” The woman shifted behind the twenty year old’s back, moving behind her and beginning to undo her armor straps.

She was exhausted both physically and mentally after that whole thing. In some ways, it certainly hadn't been as bad as she was expecting it to be, but in others it was…far worse. The thought of what Zavra did still caused her to shiver lightly - it wasn't unusual but…she never felt comfortable doing that to people. At least she finally had a chance to relax a bit.

Taking a seat at the edge of the tub, Isabella did as she was told by Gracie, leaning lightly back into the maid as she started undoing the straps to this armor.

"…What…do you think of Zavra and Lord Hasingwrath?" She questioned.

The maid paused for a moment before responding. ”The slave girl was out of line but … it was obviously just a mistake. Truthfully, that terrified me. I’m glad your my mistress and not them, though … I’m not sure what deal we struck with them, but I’m sure things will turn out fine.” Really, Gracie never thought of Izzy as ‘owning’ her per se, and she didn’t think the princess did either.

However, the point of this bath was to relax. And besides, it would probably be best to ask some of the others for advice. They’d all have opinions on how to deal with this. Gracie finished removing the final piece of clothing and the sword, placing them in a small hamper in a corner. She’d clean them or something while Isabella slept. The maid reached up towards one of the two pipes - it was cold. The other one was warm, and Gracie quickly drew her conclusions as she turned that knob and hot water began to pour from above into the tub like a shower. ”Let’s clean you off before you sit down, alright?” Gracie pushed the now naked Izzy to stand under the faucet, letting the water begin to clean off the worst of the offending grime from the trip so she didn’t bathe in it.

The still clothed Gracie removed her shoes, moving to stand in the towel and preparing to soap the princess’ hair.

Isabella placed a hand on her chest, sighing in mild relief, glad to know that her and Gracie had a similar opinion on the matter. She'd be mildly upset with herself for being so soft if she hadn't. Well, no matter. She needed to relax a bit. Constantly being a little ball of nervousness was just going to shorten her lifespan.

Isabella made a small whine as the hot water was dumped on her from overhead. Definitely not a mechanism used at home. At least Gracie was good at scrubbing her clean. For the most part, she'd remain silent and let her servant take care of her.

Gracie began to run her hands through Izzy’s hair with the soap and adopted a less serious tone. ”Little Izzy, relax. Hmmm …” The maid started to try and think of a topic that would help the girl relax. ”... what’s your favorite thing about being away from home so far?” She didn’t want to give her charge painful reminders of a land she’d never return to, and maybe it’d cheer her up a bit.

With Izzy’s hair all soaped up, Gracie moved her hands down to the girl’s neck.

"Uhm," Isabella let herself relax a bit, exhaling contentedly as her hair was finished being scrubbed. Favorite thing about being away from home? "Traveling is…fun…" She replied quietly. "Finally get to leave the castle…" She had never been allowed to leave the palace grounds very much before, at least not unsupervised by a dozen guards. It was difficult to enjoy such things if you couldn't move around freely. "O-oh, and I get to see more people, too." Isabella smiled sheepishly from admitting that. It was a simple, slightly childish thing to say, really.

”You? Enjoy meeting new people?” The maid smirked, poking Isabella in the side in the hope of receiving a cute yelp. ”That’s a surprise. Then again you did sing at dinner with that wonderful voice of yours.” Moving from the neck down to the shoulders, and chest. ”I’m glad you enjoy the road, at least.”

And yelp adorably Isabella did, flinching in a mildly comical manner as Gracie's finger poked her side.

"G-gracie…!" She shot a pouty glare that was decidedly non-threatening as a glare could be at the maid.

Gracie simply smirked at her mistress. ”That adorable pout is what I strive to see more of in my life.” Izzy had never even really thought about punishing her, so the maid wasn’t afraid of any sort of retaliation. In fact, she seemed to enjoy being messed with a little bit.

Grabbing Izzy’s hair, Gracie turned the princess’ head back to face forward again gently. ”You don’t get to turn around yet Mistress, I’m still scrubbing you.” The maid began to work the soap into the armpits and the arms, rubbing down to her fingers and spending a while to make sure she got beneath the fingernails. ”How about the sword then? Things a little … strange.”

Isabella simply pouted some more as she was teased by her maid, face reddening somewhat as she was instructed to stay facing forwards. Ooh, she wasn't that cute, was she? Sure she looked good, but no more than anyone else, but maybe that was just her being too critical of herself.

"Valiant?..." Isabella echoed as Gracie mentioned the talking sword. She was right - it certainly was strange, but she found it surprisingly easier to speak to than humans. "…Uhm, it's not strange. W-well, maybe a little…" She frowned, wondering how she should go about this. "…Have you ever heard of talking swords, Gracie?" She asked quietly.

Gracie paused in her scrubbing. ”No.” The maid looked at her a bit incredulously. ”Is the sword … magical? Does it have other powers?”

"I don't know…" Isabella continued. "But it told me it's name was Valiant. He's the one who told me about the storm…" She was relieved that Gracie seemed to at least believe her somewhat, though it was easy to see she was a bit skeptical.

Gracie paused, blinking a couple of times and forced herself to continue scrubbing as she thought about what had been said. ”Well, tell this Valiant thank you for me then. We probably would have died out there …” The maid paused for another moment, thinking. Why didn’t the sword reveal its abilities?

Or more likely, why hadn’t the princess asked. ”If the sword can talk, have you tried asking about its powers? If you haven’t, you should do so tomorrow. Storm will be here a few days at least according to the lord and the … young lady.”

"….!" Isabella winced a bit, realizing that was an incredibly obvious thing she should have probably asked the sword. She could have given an excuse like 'there hadn't been enough time' but it'd be a rather obvious lie. "R-right…I'll do that."
The maid rolled her eyes - it was probably a good thing the princess wasn’t looking at her. As Gracie finished up the hands, Izzy would feel another finger poke her in the side, but this time a hand on the back of the Princess’ head would prevent her from turning around.

Gracie didn’t need to see the pout, she knew it was there as she moved down to the princess’ stomach.

"Graaaaacieeeee." Isabella whined, pouting like the maid had assumed as she was teased again, though she didn't do anything aside from letting the maid continue her work.

Gracie’s hands wrapped around Isabella’s waist, cleaning her stomach and moving to her back before addressing her butt … by the time the princess might notice she spent a bit longer than necessary cleaning it the maid moved to the outer thighs. ”Yes Izzy, is something the matter?”

"You're teasing me." Isabella replied, still pouting, not noticing the maids lingering hands. "Stop it."

”Apologies, mistress. I won’t poke you again.” Gracie rotated her hands around to the inner thighs, letting herself wash there for plenty of time with a smirk. ”You’re very pretty, mistress. Your tailors must love to make dresses to accentuate your curves, especially with this cute bottom.” The older woman ran her cloth briefly out to the girl’s behind before returning it to the inner thigh.

”You never talk about your romantic life with me - hmmm?” With some nails, Gracies fingers went down the insides of Isabella’s thighs before the girl began to down her legs. ”Have you ever had a little crush on anyone - oh, maybe a lucky guy on this trip?” None of them were nobility, but that didn’t mean one couldn’t admire a guards muscular physique.

Crush on someone? Pretty? Looking at guards on this trip? Isabella's face was a deep shade of red again. Cute bottom? I-It wasn't that cute! Isabella pouted a bit more as Gracie seemed to still tease her in an entirely different fashion this time. How could she reply here? She hadn't been looking at anyone like that at all? Certainly, she had suitors previously, but there was nothing official or had been decided, though she had been pressured recently into fixing that at least until she left.

"R-romance?" She stuttered out, sheepishly looking away from Gracie. "I-I don't know about that…"

Gracie giggled a bit as she leaned around and caught the red creeping down Isabella’s neck. ”Princess, I can see your blush from behind, you know.” She didn’t stop cleaning though, finishing up the legs and moving onto the feet - the wag was washed off and the maid turned off the faucet, rotating to her highness’ front and directing her with two fingers to sit down on the ledge as she kneeling in the drained tub - her hands began to work into Isabella’s feet, with the added advantage of there being a nice sight of that adorable, blushing face. ”Whooo is it?” The maid asked, teasingly. Despite having formerly been a member of the nobility, the life of a servant got to her and gossip was a very important thing to know.

Isabella fidgeted uncomfortably, obviously not too happy with this line of questioning. Ooh, Gracie was doing this on purpose, and she knew it. She hadn't intentionally meant to avoid the question, but it seemed like she had done so anyways. The question now was, did she say who it was? She didn't want to cause problems for the rest of her entourage. They had enough unreasonableness to deal with already, what with having to follow her to the ends of the earth for all she knew.

"…Uhm…uhm…" Isabella stuttered out, nervously tapping her fingers together. "W-well…Kinsey is…nice…" Of course, she was being a little dishonest with herself on that front. Not that she'd currently tell Gracie that or who she did in fact, like.

Gracie raised her eyebrows and had to prevent herself from giggling immediately. ”Kinsey, really.” It was rather obvious the princess was lying, and a couple giggles escaped which made her lack of belief obvious. ”Mistress, if it’s Valiant I understand. He’s longer and wider than any man could hope to be …”

This is one of the few times Gracie was prepared to dodge something from Izzy in her entire life.

Isabella expected teasing about it. Kinsey was a good person, after all and she wasn't exactly lying, but it certainly wasn't the whole truth. What she certainly wasn't expecting though, was Gracie suggesting the sword. Valiant? Longer and wider than any man could hope to be? What did she mean by-

oh

Oh

For a few seconds Isabella simply stared forwards, her face slowly turning the deepest red it had been that day. Well yes, he certainly was wider and longer than any man could likely be. In fact, if the sword was a he, he was probably - she cut herself off mid thought.

"Gracie you perv!" Isabella Shouted, standing up and making a rather comical, though definitely not hurtful slap to Gracie's cheek. Ugh, why'd she have to go and suggest something so dirty…

Gracie was so stunned by the fact Isabella was capable of shouting that she didn’t even try and dodge the slap. Isabella was mostly finished being washed anyways, and they were friends in a way. ”I’m sorry mistress, I’ll try to be less pervy for now on, even though it makes you a cute little apple.” This was very out of place for a maid, but she tried to put on a slightly more innocent expression as the giggles ran through her mouth. It was nice to joke with the princess, especially when it made her blush.

”I didn’t realize you could speak so loudly, Izzy, but if I need to tell you more jokes so you can learn to raise your voice ...” The maid paused, leaning forward a bit with a grin. ”Soooo … who is it really~”

"B-being embarrassed does not make me cute!" Isabella retorted, though in her usual tone. Did…did she really want to know? Isabella wasn't sure if she could really say it so easily. It just wasn't something she could say. Every time she had tried saying something before, her voice just got caught in her throat. Now wasn't any different, either.

"…uhm…" Isabella looked towards the ground, unable to make eye contact with her maid as she continued to pout. "…" She answered finally, but her voice was far too much of a mumble to make out coherently.

Gracie this time returned to kneeling in front Isabella - she didn’t want to force the girl to do it, but she’d be damn proud if she did. She gave the other woman an encouraging touch on the knee, along with a look of approval. ”I know its hard, Isabella, but I have faith in you. You can raise that pretty voice of yours, I know you can.”

"…G-gracie…" Isabella replied quietly, still averting her gaze. “... Y-you ...”

Gracie in reply simply blinked a couple times as if confused. ”I-Izzy?” The older woman wasn’t nearly as nervous as the girl in front of her, but even she stumbled over one of her words. The maid was a little stunned - she wasn’t exactly wasn’t sure how to process this, but a blush of her own ran across her face.

"Uhm uhm!" Isabella quickly stuttered out in reply. "I-It's just, ever since I was small you've…you've helped me." She held her hands together in front of her chest, words spilling from her mouth in a cascade of words that the princess had never deemed possible to say. "W-when I was too nervous or scared to speak, or w-when some of the other lords said I was cursed because I couldn't speak well. Y-you always took up for me and and-" She paused for a moment, voice catching in her throat again. "W-hen I was exiled you still came with me and I-just- I don't know!" She raised her voice a bit as she continued.

"Whenever I was in trouble you'd always comfort me. Whenever I needed help, you'd always just be there. More than my brothers, or parents, even." She didn't even know what she was saying herself at this point. All of it was just words - noises - coming from her mouth she couldn't stop. "E-even when I asked you to come with me to the dinner you didn't want too because you wanted me to do it myself, right?" She closed her eyes as the nervous little ball of feelings in her chest did it's damndest to escape."You always, always help me Gracie and I don't know what I'd do without you! All throughout this trip I always think of something bad that could happen. W-we could get hurt. Bandits. Monsters. I don't want to lose anyone and I never know what to do, but you always lead me in the right direction. A-and when I think about bad things that can happen, above all I'm terrified that I'll lose you o-or you'll get injured protecting a weak, pathetic, Princess like me who was exiled and can't even speak properly without being goaded into it! I-I don't know if it's love or whatever it is, I don't know romance I wouldn't know where to begin b-but…I like you…a-a lot, a-a-and…"

Throughout the entire confession Gracie sat there in stunned silence. Partially because Isabella had probably spoken more in the past three minutes than she had in the year prior to it. But also because the maid was a bit stunned - yes, she had planned on ‘rewarding’ the princess for being good at the feast, but hadn’t dreamed that the princess would have a crush on her!

She was just a maid - sure, she’d formerly been a member of the nobility, but those days were gone. Now, she was walking around in this filthy servants uniform literally kneeling before a shining clean princess who so nearly so pretty she belonged in some sort of fantasy.

She was still confused how to respond with her own feelings, but her instincts as Isabella’s follower compelled her to stand up and walk over to the girl and give her a light kiss on the forehead before pressing that same head into her chest with two caring arms. ”Shhh, shhh. Of course I believe in you.” Comforting fingers would run down Isabella’s blonde mane. ”You are a good little princess and it's my job to take care of you …”

Isabella returned the hug, wrapping her arms around Gracie's body with a gentle embrace, finally having managed to get her voice under control. Honestly, she felt silly saying all that. It was stupid. She was stupid. Even if it was genuine affection she felt towards Gracie, she doubted the maid would ever reciprocate those feelings. She didn't even know if it was what she was feeling. Her voice seemed to have lost itself once again, however, and she couldn't bring herself to say anything more.

The maid pulled Izzy’s hair back after rocking her in the embrace for a bit, angling the princess’ head so they faced each other. ”Hey, Izzy …”

The princess would feel her lips being parted by Gracie’s gently, the maid pulling back after a couple seconds with a smile.

Isabella didn't immediately respond, eyes still sheepishly not looking towards the maid, but Gracie would have none of that it seemed.

"….!" Isabella's eyes widened as she was kissed by Gracie. The instant she felt the maids lips on her own, Isabella was visibly taken aback. She should answer, right? Yes, she should say something."…Y-yes?..."

”You need to finish your bath.” Gracie plugged the drain, turning the faucet on above her mistress with a smirk across her face. The maid paused for a second. ”And maybe once I get you ready for the night I’ll come take one myself.” The maid booped Izzy on the nose with her finger. ”Though I was thinking you’d appreciate a massage, mistress?”

"H-huh!?" Gracie was being mean! She was being teased again! Isabella pouted, making a fairly adorable sounding squee noise as she was booped on the nose by the maid. Gracie had been messing with her this entire time, hadn’t she? Not that she particularly minded, but…she was getting mildly irritated with all this.

Isabella got into the tub, still pouting a bit but her attitude quickly shifted once Gracie mentioned possibly taking a bath once she was ready for the evening.

"U-uhm…a-a Massage sounds nice, b-but…" Isabella sank low into the water, just so that her head was visible as she sheepishly and quietly made her next statement. "…we could…uhm…bathe…together…"

Gracie raised an eyebrow. ”We ‘could’ mistress. Is that an order?” She wasn’t quite as innocent as Isabella, and could recover much faster from her initial surprise at the move. It wasn’t that her heart wasn’t beating at all - just that having been in a relationship before certainly helped with understand the next one.

And well … she needed a moment to gather her courage to get nude in front of this girl. She’d seen Isabella before, but … not the other way around.

"N-no! I-if you want and w-well j-just offered…" Isabella stammered out, shifting her gaze from Gracie and back to the water repeatedly. Ugh, she felt silly for making the suggestion now. Silly, she was incredibly silly and she had made a silly and ridiculous suggestion.

Gracie started giggling again, running a hand through Isabella’s hair and petting her. ”Little apple, it is alright.” The maid looked towards the water though. ”Its not that I’d mind, but the entire point of me cleaning you before filling the bath was to prevent the water from getting dirty.” A kiss landed on Isabella’s forehead. ”Unless you want me to drain it so you can watch me bathe, Izzy.” She was back in control of the situation, at least.

"Gracie," Isabella pouted. Little apple? She was being teased again! Isabella puffed her cheeks out in a small frown before replying. "You're teasing me again...."

”Yep, and you like it.”

The maid smiled down down at her charge, finally having gathered her courage and removing the plug from the drain. With a sigh, she stopped petting the princess and moved towards the edge of the room. ”Be a good little Princess and don’t peak, alright?”

Her hands began to undo her own apron while the princess sat in the tub, Gracie hoping she was watching in spite of herself.

"I-I object! I do not!" She pouted again at Gracie's insistence that she liked being teased. It seemed as though Gracie was in fact, getting in the bath with her. Oh dear. What should she do. Gracie told her not to peek. Why would she peek? She had never seen the maid naked before…so she was mildly curious. No no, that was inappropriate, and she shouldn't think about that.

Isabella sat on the edge of the tub, back to Gracie as she did her best to think of something other than the maid at the moment. Instead, she began to find her hands incredibly interesting as she fiddled with them in front of her as she began to realize the gravity of the situation.

Gracie smiled as she saw the princess turn around, no irony lost on her about how obedient the princess was to her servant. Soon enough the dress dropped to the floor, the maid taking plenty of time to give her little apple time to peak.

Eventually though, Isabella would hear approaching footsteps as the maid approached the now drained tub from behind her, hands sliding over her charge’s head and gently pushing her eyeballs shut. The message should have been clear as Gracie now stood beneath the faucet herself, turning it on as she looked at the naked body of the girl who crushed on her, carefully watching to see if she peaked as she began to wash herself.

"That's mean, Gracie…" Isabella grumbled, making sure to shut her eyes for the maid. She wasn't going to look, nope. She wasn't going to look. Uh-uh. Not gonna happen. Noupe. She was busy thinking about anything other than Gracie at the moment. Anything other than the maid that had basically been there for her her entire life.

Maybe…maybe a little peek wouldn't hurt? She slapped the sides of her face lightly. Gracie told her not to so she wouldn't peek, not even a little. In fact, think about the exact opposite of that. Like…Valiant! Yes, what sorts of things could she ask hew new sharp sword friend. Maybe she should ask where he came from? She should already ask his abilities. Maybe more about his previous owner? She was curious as to his-

…

wait a minute.

"Ah!" Isabella suddenly stood up, opening her eyes as an almost far too deep red of a blush crossed her features again. "G-gracie! V-valiant-can't-be-here-he's a guy!"

Valiant did not comment on anything, but the maid did. That wasn’t even subtle, and to be fair it wasn’t really her fault but … ”Isabella, the sword has been here the entire time. If it can see, it watched me bathe you … I don’t think it makes a difference at this point.” The maid giggled a little bit, leaning forward and making sure her chest was very obvious. She was nearly finished washing off at this point, which was a good thing so she wouldn’t be embarrassingly dirty.

”But Mistress, I told you no peeking, and here you are with your eyes still open.” In the stern voice she used when telling Izzy she needed to do something the maid spoke. ”Turn around, put your hands on the edge of the tub, put that cute little butt of yours in the air and tell me what you are.”

"…ah…" Isabella quickly found her hands increasingly interesting again as Gracie mentioned her opening her eyes. She hadn't been thinking about that at all. That was quickly replaced by Gracies next order. What on earth…?

"Y-you want me to do….what…?" Isabella fumbled with her words again.

”You are quiet, not deaf Izzy. Bend over, stick your butt in the air and tell me what a naughty princess you are.”

"…!" Isabella fidgeted a few seconds, nervously playing with her hands in front of her again. She wants…her…to do…that? It took a few seconds before Isabella complied. She placed her hands on the edge of the tub, bending over as her mind decided to run away with what was about to happen.

”Tell me what you are, Little Apple with such a cute butt.” Gracie ran her fingernails over that wonderful, wonderful behind as if preparing it.

"I…" Isabella nervously looked around for a moment, feeling Gracie's hand on her backside. "I-I am a naughty princess…" She mumbled.

Gracie smiled widely, drinking in the royalty’s nervousness for a few seconds before sending her blow down.

"H-ha!?" Isabella made a surprisingly loud, adorable squeal as the maid's hand came down on her butt. "G-gracie that-s mean!" She stuttered out, but she couldn’t say she minded it too much.

---

After the Princess was appropriately punished (and would likely be reminded of this any time she sat down for the next few days) Gracie made sure to give her a nice massage much to her little apple’s delight while telling her how good of a princess she was for being brave and talking with the nobles here.

Several minutes had passed by, with Izzy sitting between Gracies legs facing away while the maid sat against the edge of the tub - it had been a great position to reach around for play time in, and now it was a great position to hold the princess in her arms and cuddle her as she breathed heavily.

That was…that was not something she'd have thought she'd ever be doing. In her life. At all. Not once. Not that she didn't enjoy it, but she was sore, tired, and she wanted to climb into a comfortable bed and pass out. Made a pretty nice mess of the tub and water again, too. For a few minutes, Izzy simply leaned tiredly against Gracie, resting her head on the woman's chest as she collected herself.

She felt like she should say or do something, but didn't know what.

Gracie poked Izzy in the side with a smile on her face as she sensed the girl wanting to talk. She was pretty good at that all of these years after taking care of her. ”Mistress, did you enjoy your massage?” It certainly had sounded like she did.

"Mhm," Isabella nodded, too tired to really react much from the poke. "…It was good-ah." Isabella's sentence was interrupted with a yawn as she sleepily looked forward, leaning more against Gracie. "Hmm…Gracie…?" She quietly turned her head to look at her maid. "…why did you…come with me all the way out here?" She asked quietly. She had never asked the maid before why exactly she agreed to come with her. She could have stayed in the palace, couldn't she? Any maid or slave could have been assigned, right?

In response, Gracie kissed her on the forehead and gave her a smile. ”Because you’d be awfully lonely without me.” She decided not to mention the fact that being around Izzy and being so trusted actually meant she was one of the most powerful people in the world - and when Izzy left, she’d probably have just gone back to being a normal, insignificant servat. And she simply couldn’t do that. ”And I do enjoy your company, quiet though it may be.”

"Uhm…" Isabella gave one of her rare, faint, smiles. "Thanks…Gracie…" She turned her head to the door. "Ehe, we probably spent long enough in the bath…"

Gracie nodded, leaving her mistress in the warm water as she slipped out.

Shit. They didn’t have any clean clothes. The maid opened the doorway, hiding behind it and motioned to a busy slave girl. Soon enough, some of their other clothes - now cleaned, were brought to the doorway where Gracie stealthily accepted them before drying them both off and putting the clothes on. The maid went over to gather the hamper they had dropped everything into.

”Princess, you seem happy. Did you enjoy yourself?” Valiant’s voice entered Izzy’s mind.

She was glad to get some decent clothes on again, not having to put on that armor, as fun as it was to wear. A simple, relaxing night gown of sorts and comfortable undergarments. As she picked up Valiant, he said something quite out of place.

"V-valiant!" Isabella immediately shouted. She had completely forgot about him. "Y-you forget everything you saw!"

Gracie’s eyes fluttered open before her charges - Isabella was still in her arms, sleeping peacefully. The cute thing had been exhausted after the previous day’s … activities. The maid couldn’t help but give the princess an affectionate kiss on the neck from behind, smiling as she did so.

Isabella didn't react much. Just a tired groan and a failed attempt to sleepily nuzzle Gracie from where she was sleeping. After last night Isabella was exhausted on all accounts, and intended on sleeping in as long as she'd be let.

Gracie smiled, wrapping her arm back around Isabella and snuggling. Honestly? She’d probably wait until the princess woke herself up. It wasn’t as if the storm outside was going to let up any time soon, so they weren’t in a hurry to go anywhere. She’d also told one of the guards not to wake them - the princess was exhausted and needed some rest after the journey, or something like that.

Izzy wouldn't wake until another ten or so minutes later, lazily opening her eyes and yawning tiredly as she felt Gracie's warm embrace around her. Ignoring her sore butt, she laid there for a few more seconds as she rubbed the sleep out of her eyes.

"Morning…Gracie…" She quietly greeted her maid, yawning again.

“Morning … Mistress …” The maid reached over and booped her charge in the nose. ”Sleep well, Princess?”

"Mhm…" Isabella replied sleepily, rolling over in bed to face Gracie.

The maid raised an eyebrow, but held Isabella closer … and maybe a hand reached down and patted the sore butt softly. ”That’s good to hear. It’s my job to take care of you, after all.”

"Gracie…!" Isabella pouted again as she winced slightly from her maids hand. She would have retaliated with a tease of her own, maybe, but her voice trailed into another yawn before quietly nuzzling the Maid again. "Hmm…still storming?" She questioned, though hearing the low rumble from the walls was of good as an answer as any.

”Mhmm.” The maid nuzzled Izzy in turn, listening to the quiet rain outside. Really rainy weather was perfect for cuddling. ”Anything you want to talk about little apple?” The hand raised from the butt to the girl’s neck, rubbing it gently and affectionately.

Anything she wanted to talk about? She couldn't think of anything in particular at the moment. She was too tired to really think about anything particularly important. Not to mention, her mind kept…trying to…wander back to the baths. Well, actually…there was one thing.

"…the lord said we'd discuss reward after we…looked into this ruin for him." Isabella said, thinking about the slave girl. She had been giving it some thought last night before she conked out. He said they could provide slaves…but well, maybe it was a stupid idea. Having Gracie's advice would make her feel better, at least. "That…slave girl…maybe her…?"

Gracie paused for a moment, a little surprised. She thought for a few moments, wondering how to respond. ”Mistress, you know we can’t save everyone, as bad as their situations may be.” The maid nuzzled affectionately to hopefully let the girl know this was not meant to be a harsh critique. ”Do you have any other reason for wanting her?” The woman wanted to hear her mistress’ thought process.

Isabella allowed herself a small frown. Gracie was right, of course. She wasn't some hero. She was a princess that was exiled from her home for getting too deep into forbidden magic. She couldn't save anyone…she couldn't likely even save herself, if she didn't have everyone around her.

"Uhm…w-well…" Isabella thought for a few moments. She hadn't thought too hard about any other reason. She had just been hoping to maybe pull a trick out of her younger brothers book and resolve things diplomatically. "Not really…it was…just painful watching that."

Gracie nodded, understanding. She didn’t want to crush Isabella’s feelings, just get her to think. ”If you did rescue her, we’d have a slave - assuming you’d want to keep her - and she’d probably be loyal too, so it’d be a help around camp.” Of course the maid thought about how to keep things going in the campsite - it was her job. ”You’re a good person, Isabella.” Kiss on the forehead. ”But these are the lives of your guards you are risking … I’d be careful.”

"I know…" Isabella frowned. Gracie was right, of course. She shouldn't endanger the lives of her men carelessly. At the same time though…they were sworn to do as she said, weren't they? She didn't plan on tossing them into a fire without reason or cause, that'd just be tyrannical…but they were obligated to do as she wanted too. "But…maybe with this we don't have to pay for our stay here another way…" Besides, she was quite interested in what was in this ruin he mentioned herself. "…a-and I kind of want to…see and old ruin too…"

Gracie nodded. ”If you’re just want the slave as a bonus, that’s fine mistress … no reason to be opposed to getting a little extra, especially if it means doing a little good.” Another kiss on the forehead. ”Anything you looking for there, cutie?” The maid spoke the last word flirtatiously, hoping to lighten up the conversation a bit.

"…N-no…!" Isabella stuttered out, blushing more. Gracie was saying embarrassing things again. "I-I'm not looking at y-you-Anything…!"

Graice giggled a bit. ”I was talking about the ruins, mistress, but it’s quite obvious what’s on your mind.” She leaned over to whisper into her charge’s ear .... and couldn’t help but bite it just a bit before actually beginning to speak. ”Are you being a naughty little princess and thinking dirty thoughts? Hmmm? Maybe about the bath?”

"Gracie stop being a perv!" Isabella pouted, roughly pushing her maid away from her. face turning red just as Gracie's pet name might have implied, she sat up, pulling the covers over her body. It was cold in the morning with the storm. "A-and no! I'm not…looking for anything in the…ruin, but…I'm curious." She truthfully admitted, hopefully dodging the question.

”Apologies, my little apple.” She ran a hand affectionately through the other girl’s hair, drinking in her rather adorable pouting. While Gracie was generally good at reading her charge’s mood, something that subtle slipped by her. ”Well, I hope you find something interesting in there then. You are a clever one, I’m sure you’ll find something interesting …”

Another kiss on the forehead as she looked down at the sheets. ”If you are feeling cold, you can always come closer to me. I’ll warm you up, mistress …”

"N-no!" Isabella turned her head away from Gracie, still pouting from being teased.

”Ok then, Mistress, I’m sorry.” Gracie spoke with a smile, but she backed away from the mistress as far as she possibly could, crossing her arms in a mock pout as she was disappointed the Princess didn’t want her. ”... and you confessed to me and everything yesterday too …” She spoke quietly, but Izzy should have been able to hear.

"T-that's no fair, Gracie!" Isabella pouted again, waving one of her arms in a mildly childish fashion. "Stop teasing me already." She muttered, running a hand sheepishly through her long blond hair as she avoided eye contact with the maid. "…I-I do…but…"

”Hmmm?” The maid spun around, trying to reduce her guilt-fed smirk to a more innocent smile.

"….w-we should…get dressed…" Isabella still was finding playing with her hair and the wall opposite of Gracie extremely interesting.

The maid pouted a bit as Izzy didn’t fall for her bait - at least, didn’t far as hard as she hoped she would. ”You sure, mistress? I’m sure we can ask someone to bring breakfast to us …”

The maid reached a single hand over to more innocently touch the princess’ arm. ”Am I not being good enough company for this stormy weather?”

"N-no! Y-you are I just-" Poor Izzy was about to become a baked apple pie at this rate. She was pretty sure if she turned around she'd probably explode her head from overheating. "Y-you're good like always a-and I-I uhm…"

”You alright, little very red apple?” The maid moved in closer again, this time putting her arms around the girl and giving her a nice long kiss on the cheek. ”Do you want me to go ask for food for the two of us, then, or was that an excuse to avoid being honest with yourself?”

The maid started playing with Izzy’s legs beneath where the nightgown ended, giving them a soft, gentle rub. Nothing too aggressive, though the poor girl would probably have steam escape her ears soon.

"G-gracie!" Isabella whined lightly as she was teased further. "Stop it…too tired…still sore…" The princess was falling for Gracie's teasing, and there wasn't much she could do about it. "Food sounds good…"

Gracie sighed, rolling her eyes. It was rather obvious the princess was interested, but the maid wasn’t going to try and go after her with a denial like that at the moment - she probably was sore after the previous day, and a little time to calm down wouldn’t kill her. ”I’ll be right back mistress.”

The maid headed out of the room to go find someone to speak with, leaving her mistress in the bed. She’d bring food in for the day. And besides, she wanted to give Izzy a moment to think on her own - she hadn’t been alone since the bath the previous day, and not being teased might help her gather her thoughts a bit.

Oh her poor, innocent apple.

Once Gracie had left, Isabella lightly smacked the side of her face with her hands. Urgh, she didn't know what to think or what to do at the moment. After being teased so much by Gracie just now she wanted to crawl under her covers, roll up, and not come out the rest of the day. Well, she'd like to but she couldn't. She should get out of bed and start getting ready for the day. Go out and make sure her guards were alright and doing well.

Really though…Gracie…what was she thinking doing stuff like that this early? She laid down on her stomach on the bed, grumbling lightly to herself as she tried to get her thoughts in order. What was she supposed to think? Gracie was…good in almost every sense of the word. She couldn't think of anything bad about the maid.

Ugh

She rolled over a few times, not realizing she reached the end of the bed and fell back first onto the floor with a quiet squeal.

"Owie…" Isabella stood up. What…should she think? What should she do? She didn't know the first thing about romance, love, or anything like that. At least, not out of stories, fairy tales and other such stories.

…

Ooh, what should she do?

Gracie returned back in the room, noticing Isabella out the bed after hearing a small squeal. She seemed a little worried genuinely, unsure of what happened. ”Mistress? Are you alright? I heard something …” The princess was standing though it was clear what had happened based on the loud thud. ”... want me to check it for you, maybe get some medicine?”

Compared to how willingly she was to give Izzy a good spanking, it seemed anything else injuring her did not make the maid happy at all. Gracie had set the food on the table, already prepared to attend her mistress.

"A…ah…" Isabella shook her head. "Just…a little fall…" She sheepishly chuckled, finally replying a few seconds later as she finally got her mind off of something other than what was previously going on. "Thanks…"

Gracie raised a questioning eyebrow, not really believing her charge but giving a polite curtsy instead. ”Now get back in there. Your guards are fine, and seem mostly tired from the journey. Why don’t I give you a breakfast in bed, hmmm?” The maid looked over towards the tray, seeing various types of fruit and finger foods. Very practical, and very easily fed to her precious little princess.

"Mhm." Isabella nodded quietly, climbing back into bed and sitting comfortably at the head of it, pulling her legs under her and the covers over her bare legs. She wasn't complaining, at least. It'd let her maybe collect her thoughts a bit more. Maybe she'd think of something else to ask Valiant.

Who was still in timeout under a pile of clothes.

The maid slipped into the bed as well, laying down next to her mistress with a smile and keeping the plate to herself. She picked out a tasty looking thing - probably a cut from an apple, and brought it up towards the woman’s mouth. ”Ahhhh.” It was rather obvious she wanted the woman to eat from her fingers.

"…" Isabella gave Gracie a mildly incredulous look as the apple was placed in front of her. On one hand, she felt like she was being treated like a child. She could eat by herself! On the other hand…

"…" Isabella swiped down the part of the apple being offered to her hungrily.

Some time passed as the maid continued to feed, cuddle, and tease Isabella - Valiant was covered in a pile of dirty clothes as 'punishment', and didn't seem to comment as time went on. The storm raged on outside, and the dark interior of the castle remained barely lit in most rooms - candles were expensive, and eventually eyes would adjust to the lower level of lighting.

Isabella's followers seemed to be perfectly fine entertaining themselves as the two women laid down together in the room - as the morning wore into the afternoon however, there would be a small knock at the door. Gracie stood up to answer it - it was her job after all - and she left Izzy in bed beneath the sheets.

As the maid opened the door, a familiar slave appeared on the other side dressed in the same miserable clothes - except that they would clearly see a bandage wrapped several times around her neck and other bandages around her hands. "I-I'm here on b-behalf of the lord to a-ask if your lady r-requires anything." The girl seemed terrified - and it likely made Izzy's followers in the other room a little uncomfortable. "F-forgive me for yesterday a-and bothering y-you."

Gracie turned her head towards Izzy - she was going to let the princess handle this, and she wouldn't mind more food being brought up for lunch.

---

The rest of the morning passed simply. Isabella spent most of the day in bed, glad to be resting after the trek and the events of last evening. She was more tired than she should have been honestly, but such was the outcomes of a not so active lifestyle. She wasn't very much a fan of the low lighting however, having a small childish fear of the dark still lingering over her. She didn't comment on that, though. It was a silly fear, after all and she doubted a place such as this would have extra candles to spare.

Their relaxing was interrupted by a knock at the door, likely either one of her followers or a servant. There was also a small chance Zavra saw fit to visit her as well, though she wasn't looking forward to another meeting with the girl. Gracie swiftly sat up and answered the door, and she was surprised to see the slave from yesterday.

"..." The princess seemed to coldly study the slave. Isabella was a little surprised to see her again, and looking so terrible! Even in the low lighting she could see the bandages and her haggard, terrified state. Her heart sank a little seeing her as such. She couldn't leave her like that, could she? Isabella glanced over to Gracie. She could possibly do something about those wounds with her newfound...abilities. At least aid in the healing process, but she'd like to be alone to do it. No need on bothering Gracie or the others with her sins. She didn't want to involve them. Theoretically, they could still return to the Monarchy if they wanted too.

"Gracie..." Isabella's voice was as soft as it ever was as she spoke, head turning lightly to the door indicating she wanted her to leave for a moment. Her gaze then turned back to the slave girl in the room, her emotionless visage seemingly studying her coolly.

"Yes Ma'am." Gracie seemed a little concerned as she looked back and forth between them, curious about what she needed to leave for. But she shrugged obediently, leaving the room and closing the door behind her.

The slave glanced up into Izzy's seemingly emotionless eyes and began to realize what the other woman was thinking: obviously, the noble was frustrated with the spill on her clothing. It had likely been humiliating and expensive. She'd had her hands hit with a switch until moving them hurt by a guard from Lord Hasingwrath's orders. Her stomach and neck were bruised from Zarva. She was even being put on half rations for the next week to teach her not waste food.

And now the noble was contemplating how to beat her.

For a couple of seconds the girl's eyes seemed to shake, widen, and then she began to cry. "I-I'm sorry m-my lady." She seemed to be treading her words carefully, limbs shaking as she lowered her head submissively. "My master has already t-taught me my l-lesson. P-"

The girl started backing away. "Please don't hurt me." Her back ran into the doorway, where she slumped to the ground and began crying, cradling herself in some odd attempt at comfort at what was to follow from this cruel woman.

---

Oh this poor girl...as soon as Gracie left she began pleading for her life. Isabella could hardly stand it. People could do what they wanted with their own property, but she couldn't stand watching someone be punished over a little mistake. Oooh, what should she do though? She had sent Gracie away because she didn't want her to see what she was about to do, but her heart was beating in her chest and her voice was catching on some invisible force that rendered it useless. For a few seconds the princess simply stared at the crying girl, breathing in deeply as she tried to calm herself.

She pushed the covers off her bed, standing up quietly as she walked to the edge. She was a little embarrassed about being in just her nightgown, but she had more concerns than that to deal with. Isabella walked over to the girl, kneeling on the ground in front of her, staying quiet for a few seconds as she tried to think of something to say, but no words came. Inhale, exhale.

"..." She placed her hands on her lap, extending an open palm slowly to the girl as she tried to soften her facial features, though it only succeed in making her look comically stiff. Hopefully the other girl would at least take her hand. She wanted to see her wounds.

It took about a minute before the slave realized she wasn't being hurt yet - slightly surprised, she looked upwards towards the silent woman in front of her, almost confused. W-what was she doing? Her face was strange and she was extending a hand ... as if she wanted to place her own in it?

The slave tried to figure out what sort of punishment this was going to be as she nervously extended a hand and placed it in the nobles. She was still shaking a bit - and it was obvious she was still afraid, but she seemed to be in control of her own mind once again as the fear reduced to a manageable level. She was still breathing deeply, preparing for whatever pain the woman planned on eliciting and closing her eyes to prepare for it.

Underneath the wrappings on her hands were many long, thin, bloody gashes that ran across her fingers and palms in straight lines. They had stopped bleeding the previous day, instead simply bruising painfully. The girl would look up if her bandages were undone nervously, but said nothing.

---

Isabella waited patiently for the slave to calm down - she wasn't confident in her own ability to say or use words to make her feel better. So for a few moments, she sat in silence while the girl cried. She was at least glad she seemed to realize what she wanted swiftly, though she would have stayed as long as it took. When the girl finally extended a hand to her, she gently took it, holding it softly in her hand while the other went to see about removing those bandages of hers.

It wasn't pretty.

Isabella's nose scrunched at the sight of it, having to hold back a quiet gasp of the cruelty that had been inflicted upon this young girl. So senseless.

"...why..." She quietly spoke, but set to work quickly. She had never used this magic in quite the amounts she was about to attempt using it, so she'd need to be careful and it needed a steady hand. She didn't want to hurt the girl further. Thankfully there was just enough left for her to be able to do something with her craft. Isabella placed her other hand on top of the girls, softly embracing it with hers on both sides, closed her eyes, and inhaled. Isabella placed her other hand on top of the girls, softly embracing it with hers on both sides, closed her eyes, and inhaled. before speaking quietly. "Don't...move...will hurt a bit."

First, there was a sharp sting, causing one of the gases to bleed again. Isabella would hold the girls hand as hard as she could to prevent her from trying to move - but the pain wouldn't last. It was immediately followed by a warm, throbbing, itching sensation that began crawling up her hands where the gashes were. If the girl so happened to look she'd notice that Isabella had removed her hand from on top hers and was slowly moving her hand along the gashes - blood seemingly moving on its own as it began stitching the wound together the itching sensation following it up her hand until every single gash had been sewn together and covered in a thin layer of seemingly hard, congealed blood that looked to act as a protective layer of some sort, but didn't seem to hinder movement in any way. The wound would still need to heal naturally, but this should make it hurt less and heal faster.

Once that was done, Isabella moved to the second hand and repeated the process silently. Another sharp pain as blood began to flow, followed by that same itching sensation. Her breathing was getting heavier - she hadn't exhausted herself like this before and she hadn't the practice with it that she wanted to have so it made extended usage like this difficult, or at least tiring.

After her second hand was done, Isabella took a moment to catch her breath, looking at the slave girl as she let her hands go. Soon, the girl would find Isabella removing the bandages on her neck, seemingly intent on repeating the process once again.