Heidi helped me finish getting ready, even though I didn't need it! She tried to convince me to wear makeup and jewelry, but I refused! I know that some of the makeup used in the Victorian Era was toxic, so I did not want to risk it. I was happy to use natural products for skincare, but did not apply any powders.
I didn't want to use any of the Duke's jewelry, and I did not have any other than the rubies that I planned to sell. They did not match my dress either, so I chose not to wear them. I wore a dark blue ruffled dress with light blue trim. It had pockets!
Heidi led me to the breakfast area, which was different from the dining area where we ate last night. This breakfast area was lighter with a garden view. This was a pleasant surprise. Zed and the Duke stood from their seats when I entered the room. They looked momentarily stunned by my beauty. Heidi did an excellent job on my hair!
Zed had never seen my hair done up before. It was always wind-swept while we were travelling. I had put it up in a ponytail with a ribbon and tried to put it under a shawl or hat, but the wind was strong up in the clouds. It would usually get messed up, and I hadn't had the time to fix it. I didn't know many hairstyles for long hair, and for this time period, so I usually left it down after brushing it.
"You look enchanting, Lady Alisa!" The Duke spoke first and took my hand to help me sit in the chair next to him. Zed looked annoyed that the Duke was touching me, but did not say anything. This was not inappropriate since he was helping me sit, not that I needed it, but he was technically being a gentleman.
"Your hair looks lovelier than I have ever seen it, Lady Alisa." Zed finally voiced his thoughts while subtly implying that we had known each other for a long time. I had told him to call me Alisa when we first met, but I guess he was not going to call me just Alisa in front of a noble. I didn't care about all of these rules, but it wouldn't hurt to play along for a day, so I didn't say anything.
I noticed a variety of pastries on the table filled with fresh fruit, cream, and jams. I was hungry, and my stomach decided to let everyone know it! Ugh! That was embarrassing, but oh well. Let's eat! The Duke hid his smile behind his teacup. Zed was used to my talking stomach from our journey together. He had seen me do more unladylike things in the balloon, but I didn't care.
The Duke motioned for the servants to serve me. They poured tea and brought a small selection of pastries along with a small bowl of porridge with bacon and eggs. I was excited the see the pastries, but I was most excited about the bacon! I hadn't had bacon in a very long time!
I was so glad to know that bacon existed in this novel! I would need to get a pig and a few chickens once we move to Kanta. I was excited about breakfast, but couldn't wait to set sail and continue our journey.
The Duke noticed my eagerness and decided to let me eat in silence. Once we finished eating, Zed looked like he was ready to go. I decided to announce our departure. "Thank you for the delicious breakfast, and for letting us stay in your home, your Grace. I feel well rested and ready to continue on our journey." I stood and curtseyed to the Duke.
He stood and bowed to me, gently taking my gloved hand in his. "It is my pleasure to host such a beautiful young lady in my home. It is still early, are you sure that I can not convince you to stay for a little bit longer?" He did not want to let go, but Zed cleared his throat and eyed the Duke wearily.
I retreated slightly and responded, "Thank you for the generous offer, but I wish to set sail so that we may arrive at our destination before sunset. The service has been superb, and the food was marvelous. I will be sure to visit again the next time that I am in town." A little flattery could go a long way.
The Duke looked slightly glum, but had anticipated that I would deny his offer to stay. He had prepared a letter for Catherine and asked if I could deliver it to her. "If you could do me a favor and deliver this letter to your cousin, Catherine De Kanta, I would be much obliged. Also, my home is always available to you, should you change your mind and wish to return."
Reginald approached him and handed him a sealed letter on a silver platter. The Duke picked up the letter gracefully and delicately handed it to me. I took the letter gently and handed it to Zed. He would know where to store it so that it would not wrinkle. "Of course, your Grace. I will pass on your letter and keep your offer in mind for the future. Thank you again for your hospitality."
The Duke bowed again and saw us off. He wanted to go with us to the hot air balloon, but had work to do. He sent Reginald with a few other servants to transfer our belongings. They helped us pack up the basket while looking amazed at the size of the balloon. I was happy to see that the rest of the pastries from breakfast had been included and wrapped in a nice cloth bag with a bow. Zed began adding fuel to the brazier to inflate the balloon.
Once the balloon was inflated enough, I asked Reginald to unstake the ropes. He had been so fascinated by this new flying machine that he wanted to help in any way that he could. He handed me the rope, and the basket began to float away. The servants all watched us in awe.
I waved goodbye and thanked them for everything. Heidi had come to say goodbye with the rest of the servants. She looked touched that I thanked her again and waved shyly. Once we were far enough away from the town, I steered south towards the Kanta Mountains. The balloon caught a gust of wind, and we were headed in the right direction. We should reach Ilmir by midday.
I was so excited for the next chapter in our adventure!