Surprised By Life Again

I thought I was finished with adventures. I was looking forward to living a quiet, comfortable life as a Baron in Kapri. But life rarely takes our expectations into consideration. I am now quite certain that life finds immense joy in surprising us. So I was thrust into more adventures—some welcome, some not. This is an account of those adventures.

Baron Britpop Blastfurnace

Elise And Britpop In Kapri

“I can hardly believe you are here in Kapri,” I said to Elise as we strolled through the village.

“I suppose it is your fault. When I left the Jellyfish in France, you shouted out the name Kapri. I remembered it. Later, curiosity got the best of me, and I did some research. I discovered that not only were you telling the truth about your Barony, but that wealthy shipping merchant Grand Duke Goatbeard Gruston also resides here. I started formulating a business plan in my mind.”

“I am interested to hear about this plan. Shall we discuss it over lunch?”

“First, you must show me around your charming village.”

“I would like nothing better,” I said and smiled.

Our first stop was Peel Bakery. I thought a pastry would be a pleasant way to start our tour of Kapri. The enticing smell of fresh-baked bread welcomed us as we entered the bakery. While display cases full of pastries guaranteed to delight even the most particular taste buds vied for our attention. Felix Peel, a large, good-natured man, greeted us.

“Good day, Baron,” Felix said.

“Good day to you, Felix. Allow me to introduce you to Elise Boissonneau. She is visiting Kapri on business.”

“I am pleased to meet you, Elise. We don’t get many visitors from France. I hope I can tempt you with some of my pastries. Obviously, they pale in comparison to the delights found in Paris, but I think you will find them flavorful, nonetheless. I spent a year in Paris apprenticing as a pastry chef, but the bustle of the city was too much for me. So I returned to Kapri to start my own business. I prefer a slower pace.”

“Felix, take a breath,” I said.

“I apologize. I am far too talkative. Perhaps that is why folks come here to learn the latest gossip,” Felix said, then laughed.

“No need to apologize,” Elsie responded. “It is refreshing to enjoy some pleasant conversation. I have had precious little the past few weeks. I would be delighted to sample one of your pastries. What do you recommend?”

“Ah, waffles are my most popular treat, but I would suggest a Liers vlaaike. They are a creamy, filled tart with a spicy flavor that comes from a secret combination of spices. Very tasty and easy to enjoy as you walk.”

“It sounds perfect,” Elise replied.

“Two, please,” I added.

Felix handed us our treats, and Elise took a small bite.

“It is delicious. Thank you, Felix.”

“I am pleased that you enjoy it.”

I paid for the pastries, and we left the bakery.

“Do you remember my traveling companion, Andelbert?” I asked Elise.

“I am afraid I do not.”

“I thought as much. You were only on The Jellyfish a short time, and it was under distressing circumstances. I only ask because Andelbert apprenticed at the bakery. Andelbert bakes bread that must be tasted to believe.”

“Then, hopefully, I will get the opportunity.”

“I am sure it can be arranged.”

We arrived at the village center, an open cobblestone courtyard with a small fountain at its center.

“On the weekends, this courtyard becomes a busy marketplace where farmers sell their produce, women sell crafts, and children beg their parents for sweets. It is also the place to share the latest gossip. Nothing stays a secret long in a small village.”

“Kapri is quite charming. I love how the shops have flower boxes outside their windows. It fills the village with such wonderful color.”

“Yes, it is a tradition that shop owners take seriously. And a source of pride for the entire village.”

Elise looked around, taking in the sights. But I had a hard time taking my eyes off of Elise. It was a delight to be in her presence.

As we were enjoying our stroll, a young woman approached us and smiled.

“Good day, Baron.”

“Good day, Nora. I believe I asked you to call me Britpop, did I not?”

“It is quite possible. Although I feel I must get to know you far better before I am comfortable doing that.”

I began to get flustered, so I introduced Elise.

“Elise Boissonneau, this is Nora Verbeke. Nora is a maid at the Raspberry Estate.”

“I am pleased to meet you, Nora,” Elise said.

“Well met, Elise. I have to say you are quite stunning. I have never seen hair so red or so many freckles.”

“They were gifts from my mother.”

Nora laughed and said, “I suppose they were.”

Then Nora turned to me and said, “The reason I stopped was to tell you the news. Mr. Raspberry has sold the Raspberry estate to a Duke named Drury Dottydum. He is due to arrive tomorrow.”

“Truly? Do you know anything about him?” I asked.

“Only that he is English.”

“Well, that is interesting. Thank you for the news, Nora.”

Nora placed her hand on my arm and said, “My pleasure, Baron.” Then she turned and walked away.

“It appears someone has her sights set on Baroness,” Elise said.

I blushed and said, “She is just being friendly.”

Elise smirked and said, “Indeed. Very friendly.”

Hoping to change the subject, I said, “Are you ready for lunch?”

“The tart was quite filling. I would prefer to walk a little first.”

“Then why don’t we walk to my estate and have lunch there. I assure you the food is far better than the Portbelly Inn’s.”

“I would love to see your estate. I still am having trouble imagining you as a wealthy Baron.”

“So am I. It feels like a dream from which I will surely awaken.”

Elise put her hand on my arm and flirtatiously said, “Lead the way, Baron.” Then she laughed.