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91.89% Obscura / Chapter 34: The Chimera (Part 1)

Chapter 34: The Chimera (Part 1)

The day had come to a close; orange, pink, and dark purple clouds covered the sky. It appeared a storm was blowing in. The smell of rain blew in from the open back door filling the apothecary with a cleansing scent. Thankfully it was quiet and peaceful along the street, aiding in Cordelia's attempt to quell the anxiousness lingering in her from the previous night. The apothecary had been relatively empty that day, as the entire town seemed to have slept in after the festival's first night. Beni hadn't left her side for a single moment, and she felt grateful and steadied by his presence.

She had wanted to ask him why he had let Lyonis enter last night. What had caused her normally overprotective familiar to ignore her request to keep the man from Gresas away from her? While the thought lingered in her head throughout the day, she didn't ask. And Beni, who knew she was mulling over the thought and could've easily told her, chose to ignore the topic.

Sipping quietly from a cup of tea, she flipped through her a new book that had arrived in the post. Pouring herself into the creamy pages, she glanced over the delicate words without really reading them. Her mind was preoccupied, and nervousness returned to her as the day wained. A gentle ding rang through the shop as the front door opened, pulling her from her thoughts.

Lyonis stepped into the entryway of the apothecary. An apologetic smile crossed his face as their eyes met. "Good evening, Cordelia. May I come in?" She felt herself stiffen slightly and tried to force herself to relax.

"Yes." Words seemed to get stuck in her throat, and the simple, curt response was all she could muster. Lyonis pulled a large bouquet of brightly colored flowers from behind his back. He looked down at them and pursed his lips, almost embarrassed by his outward apology.

"This... These are for you. I... I know they're not enough for you to accept my apology... But..." He awkwardly stumbled over his thoughts. Seeing the normally confident man flounder over her pulled a small smile from her, and she couldn't help but relax at the sight. She had decided to forgive him, but she wasn't about to tell him that. Watching him struggle was cute and endearing. He placed the flowers in her outstretched hands, and she felt his eyes follow her as she magically pooled fresh water into a large vase, placing the flowers strategically one by one.

Beni had hopped up onto the counter, his golden eyes following Lyonis without a hint of emotion. He sat next to Cordelia and rubbed against her hand as she carefully rearranged the blooms. The orange petals of a large sunflower reminded her of Lyonis's eyes, and she couldn't help but smile. "They're beautiful, Commander. Thank you." He flinched and inhaled abruptly when she avoided using his name but said nothing.

"I was thinking... We could go for a walk? The streets are pretty clear today. Seems like everyone is exhausted from the festival..." Lyonis spoke, apprehension in his voice, unsure what he should say.

"Well... it is about to rain." Cordelia looked outside. The sky had grown darker and more gloomy as billowing clouds rolled overhead. "Maybe it's best if we stay here."

"Hmmm... well... I wanted to take you to the Chimera today..." She felt herself brighten at his comment. She had been eagerly wanting to see his ship, but she was supposed to still be angry with him, so she stuffed her excitement down. He caught on to her eagerness instantly. Smiling, he sat down at the counter as if to settle himself there for the remainder of the evening, "But perhaps another day..."

Beni's voice reached her for the first time that day. He was still sitting next to her, rubbing his head against her hand, 'You should go. You need to get out of the house.' Shocked, she glanced down at him. The large golden eyes peered at her - still devoid of any emotion.

'Who are you?' She thought, responding to the comment. It was so unlike him to encourage her like this. Especially with Lyonis, whom he had been so wary of. 'I thought you didn't trust him. Did something happen I don't know about?' Beni blinked at her and sat down to stare her in the face, flicking his tails calmly against the wooden counter.

'I trust him.' And with that, her familiar stood up and disappeared out the back door leaving her and Lyonis alone in the shop. Dumbfounded, Cordelia gazed out the back door even far after the cat had disappeared. Mulling over his words, she was perplexed and then... relieved. If Beni trusted Lyonis... could she allow herself to? Would it be ok for her to give in to him?

"Everything ok?" Lyonis spoke softly, cautiously, as he had watched the interaction unfold before him.

She abruptly turned to look unapologetically into his amber eyes. Her sudden movement caused him to jump slightly. Squinting, she tried to peer into him as if to discover what had happened between him and her familiar to make the wary cat change his mind. But that was impossible; Beni had his reasons, only he knew - she would interrogate him later.

"Yes. Everything is fine." She placed the last few stems into the vase before waving her hand over the blooms, settling little golden sparkles into the petals. They glimmered and glowed softly before fading. The blossoms grew fuller and livelier after her gentle, encouraging touch. With pleading in her eyes, she returned her gaze to him, "I'd love to see the Chimera. If you'll still take me tonight?"

...

The two of them had walked down the mostly empty streets, past the docks to the shipyard near the edge of the Central Quarter. Hundreds of ships of various sizes, shapes, and style floated peacefully alongside one another in the water. Thier colorful masts and sails neatly packed away as if they were all sleeping and dreaming of the open ocean. Swaying gently as the wind picked up, brought it by the storm brewing overhead.

Lyonis was nervous. In a way, he had never felt before. The feeling made him restless, and he had been up all night, pacing the room. Theodora was furious with him. He made her sit in his room while he rehearsed and mulled over what he should say to Cordelia. Finally, his young underling snapped as large bags grew under her eyes, "This is ridiculous, Commander! Just fucking talk to her! Go to sleep and leave me alone!" She had stomped out of the room in a huff and refused to speak with him the following day.

But here he was now, with Cordelia, walking down the narrow wooden dock toward the Chimera. He had offered her his arm as they walked down the street, but to add insult to injury, Cordelia denied his offer. The space between them suddenly felt vast and empty. Lyonis kicked himself for allowing such a space to even grow. He had been careless with her feelings, and now he was paying the price. He only hoped he could remedy his mistake.

The Chimera came into view as they rounded a corner. Even among so many stately ships, she stood out like a beautiful red flower, floating peacefully in the water. Cordelia spotted her, and her pace quickened. They hadn't said much as they walked toward the shipyard, and thier silence couldn't help but fill Lyonis with worry.

As they neared, Cordelia gasped, "She's stunning." She walked along the dock and placed a hand on side of the redwood hull, closing her eyes and running her fingers over the polished wood. Her shiny, soft black hair was braided out of her face, running down the length of her back. She held the large black-rimmed hat steady against her head as small gusts of wind whipped through the docks. The dark red dress she wore fluttered around her waist. Her beauty and wildness seemed to match the Chimera. And Lyonis couldn't help but think it was as if they were made for each other.

Lyonis climbed up onto the deck with ease, reaching out a hand to pull Cordelia up beside him. The boat shifted suddenly in the water as a gust sent larger waves crashing against the hull. Cordelia slipped slightly and fell into his arms, and her ears reddened. Was she embarrassed to have slipped, or was it the sudden closeness that caused her face to flush brilliant pink? He couldn't help but smile as he steadied her before letting her go and turning to walk along the deck.

Cordelia was engrossed in the ship. Her hand touched and caressed every rope, every wooden knot, every expertly crafted detail as if listening to a silent story. He leaned against the center mast, crossing his arms, trailing her with his eyes as she fluttered around the deck. She climbed the steps at the far end of the deck to stand atop the elevated platform at the front of the ship.

Lyonis carefully looked around. He silently checked all the knots, ropes and gear that were securely fastened to the catwalk as he walked toward the front station where Cordelia was standing, her hands running over the carved wood, taking in every detail she could. Everything was pristine, and not a single line was out of place. He beamed with pride for his crew. At least they were good enough to impress her. Cordelia's eyes sparkled with awe and curiosity.

Lyonis climbed the stairs, stopping just shy of the top step. He reached his hand out to her when their eyes met, "Shall I take you below?" The light grey-green eyes fell to gaze at his outstretched hand. Smiling, she ignored his offer and walked to the far end of the platform, taking the steps on the opposite side down towards the catwalk. A gentle rain started to fall, but Cordelia didn't seem the least bit affected.

"Let me guess..." She pointed at the doors under the front deck, "Quarters..." Then she pointed to the large row of heavy hatch doors along the floor of the catwalk, "Storage?" She walked the length of the catwalk toward the rear of the boat, her hand touching the wide center mast in the center, disappearing behind it a moment before walking around to the opposite side. Lyonis followed her cautiously, giving her space to roam and explore as she pleased. The rain was falling harder now, and Cordelia's red dress was getting soaked, though she didn't seem to mind. She held the hat to her head securely as the wind continued to pick up.

Gracefully stepping across the length of the ship, she neared the rear quarter-deck. She pointed at the large steel door under the platform, "Captain's quarters?" Rouge raindrops carried by the wind managed to cling to her porcelain cheeks. She gazed up at him as he neared, sticking his hands in his pockets.

Lyonis stepped up beside her, the rain running down his face, "Would you like to see inside?"

"But only the Captain is allowed... Commander." Cordelia teased him. A coy playful expression sparkled in her light eyes.

"Who do you think I am?" Lyonis leaned down, mere inches from her face. She seemed to have relaxed significantly since they arrived at the Chimera, and he couldn't help but feel relieved. Perhaps he hadn't ruined his relationship with the witch of Ville Marais just yet.

"I don't know. Who are you, Commander?" The tone in her voice gave away a tinge of bitterness. Of course, she would be cautious. He had kept his true identity from her, and she knew he was hiding something. Part of him selfishly wanted to keep her in the dark. What if things changed between them as a result? He didn't want to risk it. But when he looked down into her grey-green eyes, ablaze with seriousness, it seemed apparent that if he wanted to keep her around, he would have to come clean at some point.

Lyonis took out a single iron key from his pocket and shoved it into the lock, turning it with an audible click before pushing it open. "It seems we have much to talk about. After you... my lady."


Chapter 35: The Chimera (Part 2)

Cordelia stepped through the doorway into Lyonis's quarters on the Chimera. It was modestly furnished; a long wooden table, some chairs, and a stately desk covered in messy books and papers ran along one side of the room. Shelves filled with books and ledgers ran the length of the wall, and worn, dirty rugs covered the floor. On the far end, opposite the door, was a row of small windows that overlooked the shipyard. A simple curtain was drawn across them, blocking the little light that filtered through.

Lyonis stepped past her, lighting a few small oil lamps and lanterns with a box of matches he grabbed from the table. He went around the room, lighting a sconce by a large bed in the corner of the room, a small desk and chest sat at the foot of the bed. They were covered in books. A small cast iron fireplace was tucked into the corner, surrounded by piles of dried wooden logs. He drew the curtains hanging over the windows, letting in the dampened moonlight. Large raindrops hit the window in rhythmic thuds.

Cordelia watched him move across the cabin, his large muscular figure glowed in the light of the lamps. She couldn't help but admire his raw beauty; his soft brown hair was dripping wet from the rain, and his light grey tunic was soaked through and clung to his olive skin that hugged strong and chiseled muscles. His amber eyes glanced about the room, lighting candles, lanterns, and lamps methodically as he walked about the cabin. As if he had done it dozens of times. Cordelia gulped and blinked a few times, breaking the trace she fell into. He was stunning, and she couldn't help but stare.

Memories of thier passionate night lingered in her mind. She recalled the feeling of his hands all over her, coaxing ecstasy from her body. Heat budded in between her thighs, and a growing want swirled around her navel. She tried to ignore the large, unkept bed in the corner of the room. Perhaps she was too hasty in coming here. If she had known how seduced she would become just by walking into his cabin, she would have second-guessed coming here. At the very least, she would've washed up first.

Cordelia walked the length of the wall of bookshelves. Her fingers traced the bindings of books filled with symbols from unfamiliar languages. She took in a deep breath, taking in the smell - cedar and salt, leather, parchment, and oil. Masculine and alluring. So deliciously seductive. Removing her hat, she placed it on an empty spot along the long table and sat in a large leather chair behind the stately desk. Her fingers followed her eyes as she ran them across the yellowing pages depicting maps of various coastlines.

Everything she touched on the Chimera somehow felt as if she were touching an extension of Lyonis. It had the same familiar warm and wild energy. She couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the impressive ship.

There was an undeniable tension in the air as Lyonis walked toward her. He reached across the stacked papers to grab a small oil lamp, lighting it with a match before returning it back on the desk. The small flame flickered, throwing dancing shadows across Lyonis's face. The warm glow of the lamps filled with cabin with soft, comfortable light. The only sound was from the pattering of falling rain.

"Well... Captain..." Lyonis sat on the edge of the desk, staring down at her. His deep husky voice teased her ears, "What's on your mind?"

What was on her mind? Ha! If he only knew, he'd probably end up leaping at her with uninhibited adoration. She shrugged and picked up a metal compass that was sitting on the desk. "Captain?" She looked at him, her eyebrows raising in curiosity.

"You ARE sitting in the Captain's chair."

Cordelia leaned back in the soft leather, "It is quite comfortable."

"Should I recommend the bed? I hear it's even better than the chair." Lyonis glanced at her from the corner of his eye. His playful expression and seductive voice made her bite her lip.

"The Captain wishes to discuss some things with you..." She fought against the growing desire inside her. She wanted Lyonis to do things to her - kiss her, touch her. She wanted to touch him and taste the salt on his skin. She was going wild with want. But she had to hold out. "You have some explaining to do..." Cordelia crossed her arms over her chest and crossed her legs out in front of her.

Lyonis smiled as if he thought he almost had her, "Ah... I guess I do. What would you like to know... Captain?"

"Who are you? What is your position?" The words left her lips plainly, "It is apparent you are more than you let on. A simple merchant? I doubt that."

Lyonis sighed and scratched his head, taking a moment to pause before speaking, "I am... lots of things. Currently, I am the commander of this ship, the lead in trade exploration for Gresas. I work for the Emperor."

"And?" Cordelia knew all of this already...

"I was the Commanding General for the Gresas Army. I helped... unify the country. Lead a few wars..." Lyonis looked at Cordelia, but her blank expression told him she was not satisfied. He sighed, "I am also technically... the Prince of Gresas. But I revoked my claim to the throne long ago, as Gresas no longer practices monarchy. My role is more advisory to the Emperor."

"Your Highness..." Cordelia faked a small curtsey from her seat in the chair. Royalty. Made sense. She had a sneaking suspicion but hearing it out loud made her feel... disheartened.

"I didn't say anything because... I didn't want it to put you off... and I didn't think it was... pertinent to our relationship." Lyonis looked out the window, shame glazed over his amber eyes.

"And what exactly is our relationship, Commander?" She could see him scowl at her remark, still refusing to call him by his name. But when he turned his head to gaze down at her with wide amber eyes, his handsome face looked at her with such longing and passion it took her off guard. There was pain and honesty in his expression, as if he was fighting a violent internal battle.

"I'm not sure... Captain." Lyonis leaned across the table to brush a loose strand of her hair behind her ear, "All I know... Is that I care for you. Deeply. It is as if I have been searching for you my whole life... And now that I've found you..." He paused, leaning closer to her, his amber eyes illuminated in the light of the flickering flame. "As hard as I try, I cannot seem to get you out of my mind. Or stay away, even if it means I must sacrifice my sanity. I'm drawn to you, like moths to a flame."

The words only fanned the heat between them. Cordelia's heart pounded in her chest. Beads of sweat formed across her face, and her dress suddenly felt too restricting. She needed to leave now. If she didn't, she would end up giving herself over to this man completely. Logic screamed in her head to run, but her heart... her heart waned. It yearned and reached out to him as if inviting him to swallow her whole.

She stood, terrified by the contradictions inside of her, unsure which to follow. Feeling annoyed with herself, she spoke, anger degrading her gentle tone, soiling the intimate atmosphere, "If I am soo special to you, why favor the company of another woman? Why hide? Why keep secrets and toy with me?" Anger flushed through her as the words tumbled from her lips, but it wasn't Lyonis she was angry with; it was herself. She was pushing him away, and she was being rude and hypocritical.

In her frenzied state, she rushed toward the door reaching for the handle and pulling it toward her. Lyonis slammed his hand against the steel door, forcing it closed, trapping her between the scold metal and his body. She spun around, glaring into his eyes. A mixture of pain and anger swam in his golden irises as he towered over her, trapping her between his arms.

"Why?! How rich coming from you.... You. Who has all the secrets. You. Who's interest in me comes and goes like the sun in the sky. Giving me JUST enough hope to keep me tethered like some love-sick puppy." He growled down at her, and for the first time, Cordelia saw true anger in his eyes. She felt the white-hot aura flash off him like lightning, "We are the same, Cordelia. We are broken creatures. Our lives are plagued with terrible pasts and untold secrets. Can't we just let ourselves feel the joy in this moment? Are we not allowed to want and care for each other?" His voice softened. "Isn't that enough?" The anger subsided and was replaced with heartbreaking desperation and pain. She turned away from him, tears welling in the corners of her eyes.

Lyonis cupped her face in his hands and kissed her. A hungry, desperate, all-encompassing kiss that threatened to consume her. She felt his need for her run deep inside his mana as if she had become the very blood in his veins. If she gave in now, how would she ever be able to let him go? She did not get the luxury of fleeting emotion. She was burdened with countless heavy emotions every single day, and they clung to her as if they were as new and fresh as the first day she felt them. Falling in love with Lyonis now meant she would love him till the end of the earth. Till the last breath left her lungs. How could she be expected to walk away from that? How could he walk away from her? How could she choose between him and the life she created for herself in Ville Marais? He would leave Ville Marais and her. It was only a matter of time. It was not fair, and, no, it was not enough!

She wished to have never met him! Things would be so much easier if they had never met! She pushed him away, "Stop, Lyonis.... Please." Tears fell down her cheeks, and he looked down at her for a long while.

Lyonis scooped her up in his arms and walked toward the bed. She thrashed against him. "Stop! Lyonis! PUT ME DOWN."

"Stop? Stop?!" He laughed before slamming her onto the bed, trapping her beneath him, "Cordelia. If you really want me to stop..." He tore his shirt off, tossing it to the ground. "Make me."


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