Veiled Trust

Year 25

*Emma stands on the other side of a screen holding a towel, Hopkins has two other elves helping bathe him. Emma keeps her eyes closed shyly. Hopkins walks out in front of Emma takes the towel and tells her to open her eyes. He dries off his hair naked. Emma covers her eyes embarrassed.*

Hopkins: *Laughs* There’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Most of the elves have seen my body.

*Hopkins walks closer to Emma grabbing her hand and pressing it on his chest he starts to lower her hand before she pulls away. Hopkins smile turns to a frown and he turns around and waves his hand.*

Hopkins: You can go.

Emma: Thank you.

*Emma bows and leaves the room heading to the kitchen where she helps wash dishes. Petunia stands at a counter kneading dough.*

Petunia: He try anything with you yet?

Emma: What? Why would you ask that?

*Emma’s face turns red and Petunia laughs.*

Petunia: You’re pretty, He likes the pretty ones.

Emma: But, we’re slaves we shouldn’t.

Petunia: Please most nobles sleep with their Elven slaves.

Emma: But what of the children?

Petunia: well as you see of Hopkins children. They are his personal helpers. The stay with him and his office. Have you met them yet?

Emma: Only Kimmy.

Petunia: She might pass as a human. Her ears are human enough it’s her green eyes that might get her caught.

Emma: Is that why her treats her differently?

Petunia: I heard he’s going to higher a tutor for her whenever she starts speaking.

Emma: I’ve been meaning to ask but what happens to their spirits?

Petunia: They don’t have any. Yet the oldest half elf still lived for 1000 years.

*A bell rings.*

Petunia: It sounds like you’re needed.

*Emma heads to hopkins office, A young male elf with brown eyes holds a small child her eye’s green.*

Hopkins: Oh good you’re here. Thomas hand Kimmy to Emma, then go take care of your chores.

*Thomas hands Emma the small child and runs off. Hopkins looks at Emma and smiles.*

Hopkins: You look good with a child. She even has elven eyes like you..

*Emma looks into Kimmy’s eyes and smiles.*

Emma: So what did you need master Hopkins?

Hopkins: I told you just call me Hopkins when we're in private.But since she seems to be calming down could you just hold her in here while I work?

Emma: Of course. *Smiles.*

*Emma sits down and plays with Kimmy. She looks at her ears and they don’t have any point to them. Hopkins occasionally looks up and smiles at Emma like seeing a mother holding her child for the first time.*

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*Snow covers the yard. The spirits that normally play outside have come in except the more fluffy ones who can handle to weather. Emma holds Kimmy, bouncing her slightly in her arms while talking to haze.*

Emma: Things are going to be delayed by a few years. I need you to go get Lily for me and inform Ariella.

*Haze nods and heads off. Emma walks through the door and is stopped by Hopkins.*

Hopkins: Oh Emma, I want you to pack things for a trip. We’re going to visit the current head of the ficus family, my uncle Richard.

Emma: Oh? What’s the occasion?

Hopkins: He wants to meet Kimmy. I was hoping while were there you could play the role of her mother. I told uncle that her mother is still alive.

Emma: Couldn’t you just tell him the truth?

Emma thinking: I’d really rather not see grandma while working. Wait. How is Richard going to react?

Emma: If you’re that worried I can pretend to be her mother. As long as that doesn’t mean we have to kiss or anything.

Hopkins: *Irritated* No. I would never ask you to do that against your will.

*Hopkins storms off, Emma takes Kimmy back to Kimmy's room, The room is decorated with trees and stuffed animals everywhere. Emma sits down after laying Kimmy down for a nap.*

Emma: I hope Ariella won’t be to mad. I still write her like we agreed. It sound like they’re doing guard work in the town nearby.

*A couple days pass and Emma is called to the entrance hall by hopkins. She arrives holding kimmy to see Ariella, Ruddy and Falicia.*

Hopkins: do you know who this is?

*Emma shakes her head. *

Emma: Sorry, I lost my memories a while back. Master Ficus has helped give me a place to stay in exchange for work.

Hopkins: She’s the youngest princess of Queen Seraphina. I want you to care for them while they’re here. You can ignore you kitchen duties in the meantime.

*Emma curtsies to Ariella and reintroduces herself. The party clearly is holding back laughter.*

Hopkins: Is everything okay?

Ariella: No no.*Laughs* I’m sorry, Ruddy here mentioned a joke earlier about elves with amnesia.

Hopkins: Well maybe you can tell me at Dinner. I love a good joke.

Ruddy: I’m not sure it’s really approp.

Hopkins: Nonsense, if you can tell a princess the joke. I’m sure a lowly noble like myself would appreciate it as well.

Ruddy: *Nervous* Okay. See you at dinner.

*Hopkins walks to Emma and kisses Kimmy on the forehead then pats Emma on the head as he walks away. Emma makes a disgusted face and the party covers their mouth to stop their laughter.*

Emma: If you follow me I’ll lead you to your rooms.

*The group follows Emma, reaching the first room Falicia closes the doors behind them.*

Emma: Explain yourselves.

*Everyone starts laughing.*

Ariella: Should I start calling you mother?

Emma: Arie...

Ruddy: Jokes aside. Ariella wanted to make sure you were safe.

Ariella: I brought Lily.

*Ariella pulls lily out. She rubs up on Emma’s face.*

Lily: I missed you!

Emma: *Giggles* I missed you to Lily.

Ariella: We’re actually gonna be guarding you back to richards estate.

Emma: Why didn’t Hopkins say?

Ariella: Haze asked us to wait until they got back with the news. Also to call them Misty?

*Lily hides herself in Emma’s hair.*

Emma: Yeah, I’m not excited about it. But I need to know how Richard will respond to Kimmy.

Ruddy: Didn’t you say he was good?

Falicia: Can someone please explain what is going on?

Emma:*Sighs.* only if you’re ready.

Falicia: Yes, I’m gonna join you all when you leave.

Emma: Oh! Um well. Then.

Ruddy: It took some time but I got her to join. *Smiles*

*Emma quickly summarizes the seers and what she is doing.*

Emma: I can explain more later but all you need to know is. Richard asked to meet Kimmy. I need to know his true intentions.

*Falicia sits down and just processes the information. Emma and Ruddy leave the girls to show Ruddy to his room.*

Ruddy: So what’s hopkins like?

*Emma plays with Kimmy, lightly tickling her while walking and talking. The halls are filled with Kimmy's laughter.*

Emma: The Master has given.

Ruddy: No seriously.

Emma: *Emma glares at Ruddy.* The master has given me a safe place to live in exchange for my loyalty and work. He treats us all wonderfully and closely.

Ruddy: *whispers.* Closely?

*Emma stops and opens a door to a room.*

Emma: Here is your room, if you need anything I’m the third string from the right front row.

*Emma points to an array of strings that lead around the house to call for servants. Ruddy leans in and whispers to Emma.*

Ruddy: You are safe right?

Emma: *Nods and whispers.* I’ve been very careful. He’s tried multiple time, I plan to use Lily as a means to help keep him away.

*Emma leaves ruddy to his room and goes to Kimmy’s room to lay her down. She closes the doors so she can rest in the room alone while she rests. Lily changes into her smaller form and snuggles up to Emma’s neck.*

Emma: I’m glad you’re here Lily.

Lily: have you been hurt?

Emma: No. Like I told Ruddy before I’ve been careful. I told them I lost my Spirit so you’ll still have to hide.

Lily: That’s fine. Ariella has been worried the whole time.

Emma: I know. But I need to make sure someone can take over after hopkins. I have to wait until Kimmy is old enough where richard will name her the heir of the estate here.

Lily: How long will that take?

Emma: I don’t know for humans. Haze said it could be when she turn 10. She’s 2 now so I have three years. The war sounds like it might breakout soon. We had someone from up north visit us and after seeing the house they said any elven slaves they find they’ll send our way until after the war. most nobles, even the ones against elven lives, leave the Ficus family alone since they stay neutral on all fronts. The pay extra taxes for it and everything.

Lily: At least you know the elves will be safe.

Emma: Yeah. As for how I need you help. I’d like you to stay stealthed and watch over Kimmy whenever I leave the room. I might have to ask you to make her cry so i can leave hopkins room.

Lily: I can try.

Emma: She startles easily so all you’ll have to do is surprise her.

*A bell rings for Emma she heads to hopkins room where haze is waiting with them as they bathe. Hopkins smiles when Emma walks in he calls her to sit next to the bath to talk with him. Emma sits in a chair keeping her eyes closed.*

Hopkins: It turns out Princess Ariella and her group are our guards for the trip to see Uncle. We’re going to be leaving the day after tomorrow so make sure Kimmy is ready.

*Haze steps out and hopkins gets out of the bath. Emma hands him a towel as Hopkins dries off Emma notices a smell.*

Emma thinking: Moon drops? So he uses an elven aphrodisiac to get them?

*Veil seers are more resistant to mind influencing drugs so Emma is unaffected.*

Hopkins: I love this smell.

*Emma covers her nose.*

Emma: Sorry, I think I’m allergic to this smell.

*Hopkins smile turn fades. As he put out the incense. He hands her a drink. And smiles.*

Hopkins: I wasn’t aware. Here drink this.

*Emma looks at the drink, she knows it’s laced with something.*

Emma: No I think I just need some fresh air.

*Hopkins opens the windows and places the cup in front of Emma.*

Hopkins: this is an allergy medicine you can drink it.

Emma(TL): Lily.

*Emma takes the cup as she picks up the cup Kimmy can be heard crying. Emma places down the cup quickly and walks to the door.*

Emma: I’m sorry master, but Lady Kimmy needs me.

Hopkins: *irritated* Yes go, just be careful and take something for those allergies.

*As Emma goes to pick up Kimmy she hears a glass break from Hopkins room. Misty asks if he’s okay but he snaps back with yes just a slip and asks them to clean it up.*

*After loading the carriage Misty drives and the party rides on some horses alongside. Emma holds Kimmys hands helping her hop into the carriage.

Emma sits down next to Kimmy. Hopkins sits across from them.*

Emma: I’ve never asked but how quickly do humans grow?

Hopkins: She's a little behind because we haven't gotten a tutor for her. You're free to teach her anything you'd like until then.

*Emma looks down to Kimmy, who looks up and smiles.*

Emma: Can you say daddy?

Kimmy: d-d-d.de

Emma:*Smiles* how about Emma?

Kimmy: Ma!

*Kimmy throws her hands up and smiles. Emma glances towards Hopkins.*

Emma thinking: How convenient she tried to call me Mama.

Hopkins: That’s close kimmy. Can you call her Mama?

Emma: I’m not sure if that’s really appropriate master Hopkins. *Nervous.*

Hopkins: Nonsense. It will help convince Uncle.

*Emma looks down to kimmy.*

Kimmy: Mama?

*Emma Reluctantly nods*

Emma:Yup.

*that night after Hopkins and kimmy went to sleep Emma meets up with haze is the forest to train. Emma fueled by anger keeps pushing haze back until the forfeit. Ariella steps out from the shadows.*

Ariella: I haven’t seen you this mad is a long time.

Emma: The bastard has her calling me MAMA.

*Emma squeezes her blades and her eyes sparkle.*

Ariella: Breathe Emma. We don't want to snapping.

*Emma takes a deep breath.*

Ariella: He won’t try anything while we’re here. So we have a week.

Emma: I know *sighs* I can’t wait to go questing again.

Ariella: Depending on the turnout you might be able to report this and get some credits.

Emma: I know.

*Emma hands her blades to Haze. and the group heads back to the house.*

*A week passes and The party leaves after escorting Hopkins to the Ficus estate. The snow is visible on the mountains in the distance, leaving a low chill in the town. Emma smiles as she hops off the carriage*

Richard: Hopkins! Glad to see you Nephew.

*Richard looks at Kimmy holding Emma’s hand as she walks up.*

Emma: go on.

*Kimmy attempts to curtsey but trips a bit. Emma catches her and smiles.*

Emma: You did very well.

Richard: You know we just met an Emma a few years ago. you look a lot alike. *Laughs* Maybe you two are related.

Emma: Our guards said the same thing. The Emma they mentioned is apparently on her own quest at the moment. One of them said they write her regularly.

Richard: Well, Emma you and Kimmy can go play in the yard with Susan, she’s probably having lunch at this time. Gemma can you show them the way?

Gemma:*Bows* Of course master Ficus.

*Gemma leads the two towards where Susan spends her days. She watches the spirits playing.*

Gemma: What in the hells do you think you are doing here?

Emma:*Shocked* What do you mean?

Gemma: Do you have any idea how dangerous hopkins is?

Emma: what gave me away?

Gemma: your smile.

Emma: I’m raising Kimmy, Hopkins has tried multiple advances but I’ve made sure that I always have a way to leave him.

Kimmy: Dada?

Emma:*Smiles* Yeah, Dada.

Gemma: Just tell me she’s not really yours.

Emma: not in the slightest. But I want to help keep her safe. I’ll tell Ariella to explain more of why I’m doing this to you after I leave. For now just pretend we don’t know each other.

*Reaching Susan Gemma introduces the two before heading back to Richard.*

Susan: So Emma, how long have you been with the family?

Emma: About three years.

*Emma sits down and Kimmy sits in her lap Emma Brushes the hair from kimmy’s face as she looks up and Kimmy smiles.*

Susan: Hi Kimmy, you can call me Sue. can you say Sue?

Kimmy: Ssss

Emma: She just started speaking the last few days. we haven't gotten to any S or Z words.

Susan: Well that makes sense, your still just a baby.*Smiles*

*Susan calls over a fluffy dog looking spirit.*

Susan: does she play with spirits?

Emma: Not lately. Those of us with spirits keep them in our rooms. With the war so close it’s to risky.

Susan: Yeah but at least you’re all safe. Staying neutral in the war has been the only thing keeping you elves safe.

*Emma brings Kimmy over to the spirit, they curl up and lay down so Kimmy can rest of them. Using their tail thay bat playfully at her. Kimmy smiles and laughs as she grabs at the spirits tail.*

Kimmy: *Laughs.* Mama.

Emma: Yup I see you. *Smiles.*

Susan: So tell me. Did he force you?

Emma: force me? To do what?

*Susan gives a suggested look as if saying “Really?”*

Susan: Fine, what do you like about my cousin?

Emma: Master hopkins is very kind. He cares about all our health.

Susan: And as a partner?

Emma: I’m not comfortable discussing that. I’m sorry lady ficus.

Susan: *Sighs* It’s fine. Just know you can talk to me safely about anything.

*Kimmy gets up and walks over to Emma.*

Emma: Good job Kimmy!

*Stephan glares at Kimmy and Emma as he walks past.*

Stephan: Your father has called for you and lady kimmy to come to his study. Master hopkins also requested Emma’s presence.

Susan: gotta love formalities. *Stands up*Well let’s go.

*Kimmy raises her arms to be picked up. Upon reaching the study Richard is sitting behind his desk, hopkins is sitting down as well with Misty standing behind him.*

Hopkins: Kimmy, come here sweetie.

*Emma helps Kimmy walk to her father.*

Kimmy: Daduh!

*Hopkins places his finger over his mouth, hushing Kimmy. Emma's face twitches as she holds her tongue.*

Richard: with the war coming up we need to discuss if something happens to hopkins. So I’ve decided to name Kimmy as his heir. If something happens to him before she is an adult I’ll need you, Susan, to go play the role of Madam, until she is old enough to marry.

Emma: Isn’t it a little early to decide.

Richard: Emma, as her mother I’d like you to play the role of her personal maid. I know you mostly do that already, but this will mean you will listen to her over Hopkins. This is direct order from the head of the Ficus family. Do you have a problem with this.

Emma: No sir.

*Emma looks at Kimmy who smiles back at her.*

Richard: I’d also like you to be her personal tutor. It’s not abnormal for nobles to have elven tutor slaves. It will draw less attention to you being her actual mother. As for her eyes.

*Richard places a vial on his desk.*

Richard: This will make her eyes turn brown. She’ll have to drink it daily. We’ll just say it’s her medicine. And Nephew.

*Hopkins stiffens up.*

Richard: what are the rumors you have other children?

Emma: Sorry to interrupt, but Master Hopkins took in some pregnant mother’s, they sadly passed after giving birth. The children were products of rape.

*Hopkins clenches his teeth and tightens his fist. Richard's scowl fades slightly, as he doesn't fully believe her.*

Richard: That’s sad to hear. Are they at least safe?

Hopkins: Yes, I have them work different areas depending on visitors. Their ears and eyes are a give away.

Susan: If you no longer need us shall Emma, Kimmy and I take our leave?

Richard: oh yes, sorry. I’ll see you for dinner dismissed.

*The three head to Susan’s room where they let Kimmy play.*

Susan: So it sounds like we might be getting closer. Should I call you cousin as well .*Giggles.*

Emma: I wouldn’t want you to get in trouble.

Susan: So what’s Kimmy like?

Emma: She startles early, most nights she wakes up around midnight because of the wind. We had to remove a tree because she thought it was a monster.

Emma thinking: Actually it was Lily because Hopkins tried to sneak in my room.

Susan: Well maybe I’ll go back with you for the summer, just so I can get to know her better.

*Kimmy falls asleep on a giant pillow in the corner. Emma and Susan smile as they watch her.*

*After a couple of days The group is setting out, Susan rides along as well. The guards are a group of adult male humans.*

Hopkins: It’s a shame we couldn’t have the same guards as before. One was princess Ariella.

Susan: So you met her?!

Hopkins: Yeah. Her party took our request for guards. My personal maid found them for me.

Susan: Emma you didn't say that's who guarded you.

Emma: I said they knew an Emma as well.

Hopkins: I told Uncle they guarded us. Did he not tell you?

*Hopkins glances down at Emma who’s practicing words with Kimmy. Later on that night Hopkins calls Emma to the room of The Inn they're staying at.*

Emma: Yes, master Hopkins?

Hopkins: Are you the Emma she was talking about?

Emma: No. As I told you before I asked Princess Ariella and her party and none of them knew me.

Hopkins: True. and your eyes are the wrong color. *Sighs* for a moment I thought maybe you were pretending, but. Then I realized no elf could hold an Illusion spell this long even if it was just to change their looks.

Emma: I would never betray your trust master hopkins. And being given the option to raise Kimmy. I couldn’t ask for a better way to repay you.

Hopkins: No I wish I could only pay you back more. I’m so grateful for your time and energy everyday.

*Hopkins stands behind Emma, he caresses her shoulders.*

Emma: I couldn’t possible ask for anything else from you. You already have given me so much. I spend every moment of my day helping Kimmy to repay you.

*Hopkins sniffs a strand of Emma’s hair and she shivers in disgust.*

Hopkins: Well at least allow me to do something personal to thank you for your time.

Emma: That isn’t necessary, Raising Kimmy bring me all the joy I need.

*A knock interrupts the two.*

Hopkins: *Irritated.* Yes?

Misty: It’s miss Kimmy, she’s asking for Emma.

*Hopkins irritatedly sends Emma off to take care of Kimmy.*