Later that night Ora's parents kissed her goodnight and blew out the candles. As the moon grew brighter in the sky her own vision began to clear.

The girl waited until she was certain everyone had gone to sleep

The girl waited until she was certain everyone had gone to sleep. Without being heard, Ora slipped out of her room, down the back steps and through the servant's quarters. She was happy to discover Cordelia waiting for her at the side door.

"Are you sure about this, My Lady?"

"Come along, Cordelia." The girl was adamant.

The two traveled through the large hedge maze that led to a great stone fountain at the center. With the moonlight washing over her skin, Ora started to sing one of her many melodies she had learned.

By the time she reached the fountain, all the stars were shining above her. Every flower had opened to greet her. Even the fireflies had begun to dance about. All seemed at peace, for the young girl was truly in her element.

Ora finished her song and smiled. She felt someone watching her from afar.

"I know you're there," she whispered. "Come out where I can see you."

. . .

From deep within the shadows Athos slowly emerged from the trees. He made his presence known by stepping into the light where Ora could see him. There the girl simply stood and looked up at him.

In such a short amount of time, Athos had forgotten just how small she was

In such a short amount of time, Athos had forgotten just how small she was. Another trick of light and he would have mistaken her for a child's toy. Or, perhaps even a fairy.

"I thought you weren't able to see, Madame," he said.

The girl was transfixed on the man in front of her.

"I - uh - I can only see when the sun goes down. And, it's not Madame."

Athos tilted his head in amusement. "How am I to address you then?"

"You may address me as either My Lady or. . . by name."

A small smile curved his lips.

"Your name then."

"Ora. Ora Nightingale."

"Ora? Meaning prayer," he confirmed. Athos couldn't keep from smiling. 

"Does My Lady live up to the name?"

"Religion is my mother's refuge, Sir. Not mine. Rumor has it that she had a difficult time conceiving until one day God answered her prayer. Or, something like that."

He reached out, and raised the back of her hand to his lips.

"Well then, it is a pleasure to meet you, Lady Ora."

"A-and you as well, uh-"

"Athos." He bowed his head.

The name slipped off her tongue like a secret spell. "Athos."

Ora couldn't keep from staring into his eyes as they shined like rubies. It wasn't long until she took in the rest of his stunning features.

Suddenly she pulled away out of embarrassment.

"Forgive me, I do not mean to stare. You must find me exceedingly odd."

"Not in the slightest."

Ora blushed a deep shade of pink.

"It's just that I've. . . Do all men look like you?"

Athos fought back a chuckle. What a mystery this girl truly was. Was she being serious? Then again, the issue of her day blindness slipped his mind.

"My Lady, have you never seen a man before?"

Ora looked up at him, her eyes filled with honesty as she spoke.

"No, Athos. You are my first."

(If you like the story so far please feel free to comment or ask questions!)