GOTHARMONY: Episode 2
The second episode of Gotharmony published exclusively on substack.
Gotharmony is fictional series set back in the Regency Era where gothic music was deemed evil. Its full of romance, betrayal, and mystery.
“You said I had the eyes of a wolf, search them and find the beauty of the beast”
Verity.
"I am the shadow, and the smoke in your eyes, I am the ghost that hides in the night" - Florence + The Machine.
The news about the return of Miss Verity Etheira Ashford, the only daughter of the aristocratic family of Ashford, had reached every corner of Islington which was located north of London . Islington had not changed abit; it was as if she hadn't been away for years. from the church bells that rang for hours till the last man walked home, to the cobblestone streets that led to the main market square, everything remained familiar.
All around her people bustled about their daily business and children played games in the street. Verity was almost overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of home. It seemed like only yesterday she was leaving for the big city to attend the most prestigious institution in England.
Now here she was returning home after three long years. Verity felt both excited and nervous at the prospect of seeing old friends and family members again. Like any other family in the town of Islington, the Ashford family had their fair share of skeletons in the closet. Miss Verity had been born to Duke Alexander Ashford and his wife the Duchess, both prominent figures in local society.
Not just any prominent figures, the Ashford family adorned the annals of history as maestros of melody, weaving symphonies that enraptured the souls of kings and commoners alike. Their legacy echoed through the halls of time, a testament to their unparalleled prowess in the realm of auditory artistry.
From the haunting strains of virtuoso violinists to the resounding compositions of revered composers, the name name Ashford echoed with reverence across the ages. It traced back to her great grandmother countess Octavia Genevieve Abernathy, who emerged as a luminary of the operatic stage during the Romantic era's tumultuous crescendo, Her father, Edward Alexander Ashford, who mastered the cello, her mother too Amelia Catherine Ashford who was a luminary of composition. Oh!... not to forget her loving grand father who had passed away last eve, he ... a maestro of the ivory keys. All this explained why she was fond of music , the sound of it, the feel of it and everything about it.
It deeply explained why she had chose to study Music Theory and Composition at The Academy of Harmonic Arts. The academy had several colleges, each with its own traditions and activities, including musical societies, choirs, and orchestras. Students interested in music could participate in these musical groups and receive instruction from skilled musicians and composers who were affiliated with the academy.
So her parents had decided she should join and study music there, not because she didn't know how, just to make her perfect. At the age of four, her parents introduced to the violin. By twelve, she was studying the cello , and at fourteen, she took on the french horn, the basoon and the harp as well. She was exceptionally skilled . It seemed the music thing was in the blood afterall.
"Are we nearly there, Jenkins?" Verity inquired, her voice tinged with excitement as she peered out of the carriage window, her gloved hand delicately resting on the sill.
"Nearly, Miss V. Just up around the bend, here, and we should be coming upon it, ma'am." Jenkins replied, a faint smile playing at the corner of his mouth as he gave a slight nod to his charge. "Should be able to see the entrance any minute now. There, there!" Jenkins said, pointing.
He shifted his gaze back to the road ahead, guiding the horses with practiced ease through the winding paths.
As they approached the imposing entrance of the Ashford Estate, a sense of nostalgia washed over Verity. This was where she spent her formative years, surrounded by the warmth of family and the enchantment of music. The sight of the sprawling mansion brought forth memories of laughter-filled days, impromptu performances, and the comforting embrace of loved ones.
Home truly is where the heart is..
Nothing had changed all these years. The estate was as beautiful as ever, standing tall against the backdrop of rolling hills and lush green fields. Its stately facade exuded elegance and refinement, a reflection of the noble lineage that had built it.The entrance to the Ashford Estate was a grand gateway flanked by wrought-iron gates adorned with the family crest. A winding driveway lined with majestic oak trees led to the imposing silhouette of the manor house.
Guests were greeted by a grand portico with towering columns and a sweeping staircase, promising opulent delights within. The air was filled with the scent of polished wood and fresh flowers, creating a sense of enchantment and tranquility.
Outside, the gardens offered a veritable paradise, meticulously maintained by dedicated staff. Roses bloomed in vibrant hues, swaying gently in the breeze. Tranquil ponds mirrored the sky's cerulean expanse, while statues and sculptures dotted the landscape, adding an air of sophistication to the idyllic scene.
A gazebo tucked away in a serene corner provided the perfect retreat for quiet contemplation or intimate conversations. In essence, the estate was a harmonious blend of luxury and nature, embodying the essence of the Ashford family's refined lifestyle. Verity knew this was the work of her mother , the woman liked nothing but looking and living like a goddess.
" We are here my lady" Jenkins announced pulling the reins of the horse as he stopped infront of the butler. The carriage rolled to a halt and Jenkins quickly hopped off to help his young mistress down. Stepping onto the gravel driveway, She smoothed down her gloves, taking a moment to adjust her hat and straighten her posture., Verity couldn't help but marvel at the sight before her.
The grounds were impeccably maintained, as always, and the façade of the mansion was a testament to the family's wealth and status. The imposing structure was built from a combination of brick and stone, its imposing presence befitting the name of its owner, Duke Alexander Ashford.