1 The Lake
Allyrion 1448
I woke as rays of light shown down onto my bed, It was early morning and the sun had begun peeking through my windows. Sitting up, I took a moment to gather my thoughts.
I jumped out of bed, walking over to my large trunk, I grabbed a set of riding breeches and my coat. Quickly dressing into my riding gear and placing my hair into a loose bun, I slowly opened my door so not to make any noise. Not wanting to wake my parents I crept down the stairs and heading into the kitchen, I grabbed a large red apple from the table and then made my way outside.
The stable boys had already finished with feeding and grooming and as I entered the stables one of the boys was readying my horse – Knowing I liked to go for morning rides.
Shadow, my large Friesian stallion was anxiously waiting and as soon as the boy was finished he helped me onto the horse. Steadying myself in the saddle and grabbing the reins, Shadow and I set off into a gallop. Unlike the other noble girls, I preferred not to ride side saddle and instead chose to ride astride the horse. Not really caring that others did not approve of it.
Why can't I ride like this? It is so much easier.
Shadow had slowed into a canter now, Riding up over the hills we entered Mistwood Estate. The lake here is my favorite and I've always enjoyed the solitude of it. The estate has been abandoned for years and I was the only one that ever came onto the land. Many people didn't know about the lake here, being completely surrounded by elder trees it was hidden from view which suited me just fine.
Reaching the lake and a little out of breath from the ride, I climbed off Shadow and secured him to a nearby tree. Reaching into my coat pocket and pulling out the apple I had grabbed earlier, I took a bite before feeding the rest to Shadow.
I walked down to the edge of the lake, admiring the scenery; the crystal waters, the clear blue sky and, the enormous elder trees – branches swaying in the wind. Taking in a deep breath the air held the warm odors of honey and earth.
The sun had completely risen now and the heat from the ride had caused sweat to drip down my face. Checking my surroundings I slipped off my boots and removed my coat and breeches so I now stood with only a sheer undergarment on.
Diving into the lake, I swam further in. the water was deeper here making it easier for me to move my legs. Relaxing onto my back I let out a sigh, floating on the surface of the cool water. Swallows circled quickly in the sky above me. I watched them peacefully as time passed by.
"How is the water?"
Spinning around I spotted a man standing under the tree, Shadow beside him, grazing nonchalantly.
How long has this man been standing there? He was dressed well and his tall, handsome appearance was a little intimidating and I froze for a moment.
"Uh, It is lovely. Forgive me Sir, I wasn't aware that there was anyone on the estate." Looking down I realized that my undergarment was now completely see-through, quickly crossing my arms over my chest I looked up to see the man smirk slightly. I was quite far in now so I'm sure he wouldn't be able to see me clearly in the water. I stayed in place to avoid any indecency.
"There is no need to apologize, I was just passing by." his voice was soft and smooth, averting my eyes from him I tried to remain composed. Almost as If sensing my uneasiness he spoke again, "I will leave you be." and without another word he turned and walked away, disappearing behind the trees.
This was the first time I had ever encountered another person on the property and I felt a little embarrassed to have been caught trespassing.
Swimming back to the shore, I hurriedly slipped into my breeches and boots, stumbling as I struggled to pull the material over my wet skin. Picking up my coat I walked up to Shadow, throwing the coat over his neck.
"Silly horse, Why didn't you let me know that man was here. I could get into trouble", The horse answered with a simple snort.
Untying the reins from the tree I quickly hopped up onto the saddle and we set off for home.
