As I sat there with both hands under my chin, a tray filled with numerous letters was presented to me. Each letter had its unique design, color, and texture. The noble ladies made sure to trouble me, huh?
Gazing at the tray full of letters, "I would prefer to have some beautiful flowers rather than a tray with so many letters," I said, my voice quivering with emotions.
Not reacting to my flirty, "It's your own doing. You don't have to reply to all of them. Reply to some; that will do," Ivan said flatly.
"What a grumpy one you are!" I exclaimed with disappointment
The morning meal was a delightful affair, with a spread of mouth-watering dishes and a pleasant exchange of banter between us that added to the overall enjoyment. Once we had completed our usual morning routine, I arranged to meet with Madam Fredeca at the mansion.
-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-
Inside the foyer…
As I walked into the room, I was greeted by a familiar face. "Madam, it's been a while," she said as she stood up from her seat and bowed towards me. "Good afternoon, Madam Fredeca. How have you been?" I replied, taking a few steps closer to her. We engaged in a brief conversation, catching up on each other's lives
As I looked into her eyes, I could see the unmistakable glimmer of joy that was radiating from within her. I couldn't help but comment on how bright she was looking. "I guess you are having fun these days, seeing how bright you're looking," I said. Her smile widened as she nodded in agreement. "Yes, that is true," she replied. I could sense that she was genuinely happy and content in that moment. As we continued our conversation, she inquired about my preferences for the festival's design. "So, what design would you like for the festival, my lady," she asked.
"I'll be buying two dresses for the festival - one for the ball and one for exploring," I explained. "For exploring the festival grounds," I clarified when she looked puzzled.
"I want to see how the common folk celebrated the festival, to experience the same joy and excitement that they did." And as these thoughts ran through my mind, gentle smile forming on my face, a smile that seemed to express my eagerness to immerse myself in the revelries.
As soon as she saw my face, the dressmaker, Frederica, was momentarily surprised. However, she quickly regained her composure and greeted me with a lovely smile. "Leave it to me, my lady, and you will be the most stunning guest at the ball," she exclaimed with genuine excitement.
We spent the entire afternoon discussing the dresses that I would be wearing for the ball. Frederica was keen on knowing my preferences, and I recommended some designs that I had sketched in my free time. She was delighted to see them and even took the time to study each one in detail. We went through various fabrics, colors, and styles, and Frederica made sure to take notes of everything to ensure that everything was perfect. Her passion for her craft was evident in the way she meticulously went through every detail, leaving me feeling confident that I would look my best on the ball night.
"Madam, I genuinely think you can bring a new era to the fashion industry. It would help if you thought about it." Looking at me, she said.
"Than how about we become partners? I'll create some designs for you, and you can make them in your boutique." I proposed my idea to her, and now it was her turn to respond. If she agrees to this arrangement, I won't have to worry about finances after the divorce.
She was surprised by my sudden proposal. "I am serious about this , madam. Take some time to think about it. Let's discuss it next time," I said.
"Very well," she said with a smile.
As it was already lunchtime, I extended a courteous invitation to Madam Fredeca to join me for a meal. Over lunch, we discussed our mutual interests and shared valuable insights. Following our enjoyable conversation, we bid each other farewell.
_____________________
Having taken the time to respond to a few letters, I decided to make my way to the library. The library was situated a fair distance from the main building where the maids resided, so I had to brace myself for a longer walk. As I made my way to the library, I couldn't help but notice the different buildings and structures that surrounded me. These buildings seemed to blend seamlessly into the beautiful landscape, which was dotted with trees and well-manicured lawns. Despite the longer than usual walk, I enjoyed the refreshing scenery and the feeling of being at one with nature.
As I was walking, I stumbled upon a small but mesmerizing garden. In the center of the garden, there stood a stunning sculpture carved out of white marble. The sculpture was of a woman, and the sculptor had done an impeccable job of capturing her emotions so vividly that it seemed as if the statue was alive. The grace and beauty of the lady were strikingly evident in the sculpture, leaving no room for doubt that she was a true epitome of elegance.
Looking closely at it, I noticed a mark carved on its shoulder.
It was a crescent moon mark.
[An intricate half-crescent moon, in its middle a bird, flapping its enormous wings]
Under the sculpture, something was written…
"You who shall come, be prepared
For once, what was mine
Will be now yours
Call upon it's name
Shall heed your command
Move forth, move forth
On this path."
'Hmm, what does that mean? Anyway, I should get going now.'
-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-
In the library...
The library is an immense three-story building that seems to be a world made entirely of books. The shelves stretch out as far as the eye can see, towering over visitors like majestic skyscrapers dedicated to knowledge.
As soon as the librarian caught sight of me, she was taken aback and stood motionless in shock.
"Hello! What a charming place you have here," I complimented as I approached the lady. She seemed a bit taken aback but quickly regained her composure and asked "h--how can I as--assist you, ma--madam?" "No need to worry, I'll take a look around," I reassured her while gesturing with my hands as I began exploring the area.
I am searching for a book titled "Quest of Namaari" which is an ancient book related to the black dragon. I found it on the second floor, and it seemed odd that it did not appear aged despite its history. Surprisingly, it was relatively clean compared to the impression its name gave.
I sifted through the pages, my eyes scanning every inch of the parchment for any clue that could lead me to the witch. Just when I thought our search was fruitless, a peculiar picture caught my attention. It depicted a dragon looming over the town of Thaton, its massive feet crushing a large bird beneath them. As I gazed at the image, something strange happened - the black ink seemed to come alive, the dragon's scales and the bird's feathers rippling as if caught in a sudden gust of wind. It was as if the picture was telling a tale, and I couldn't help but feel a shiver of excitement and fear run down my spine.
In the center of a circle, there was a bird chanting something as four dots surrounded it. Each dot was different in color, representing each individual. Above the dots, a jewel-like sign pointed towards chaos. Suddenly, golden fire spread from the bird, and a thin golden thread appeared from the air, binding the four dots together. Finally, capturing them in four jewels, which were distributed among the individuals. As the bird's flame went out, it vanished into the darkness.
"D--do you like th--that book, my lady?" Sofia, the librarian, asked.
Closing the book, "I just wanted to know about the history of the dragon," I looked up at her. "Do you manage this place alone?" I asked.
"Yes, m--my lady", she replied.
"Must be hard." I brushed off the dust of my dress as I stand up.
"I--it's nothing, my lady. With t-the mama I h-have, it's not h-hard at all", looking downcast, she said.
'Anyone can see by looking; she is so thin, with clothes covered in dust and messy hair, yet she keeps the library clean. She loves her job, huh?'
"I'll send my maid to pick up some books about the ancient beasts, so keep them organized. Also, give that one too. Well then, have a nice day," I bid her goodbye.
As I leisurely walked around the exquisite duchy, taking in the intricate architecture and grandeur, I made my way towards the opulent west wing. Along the way, I was captivated by the stunning paintings adorning the walls, each one a masterpiece in its own right. Even the ceiling was adorned with a vibrant and detailed painting, depicting a scene of majestic beauty. The attention to detail and impeccable artistry left me in awe as I continued my stroll through the magnificent duchy.
The room was incredibly spacious and grand, with high ceilings and ornate decor. Adorning the walls were portraits of the previous duke and duchess, their eyes seeming to follow you wherever you moved. As I gazed towards the west end of the room, my attention was immediately captured by a sight that stood out amidst the opulence and grandeur. There, lying on a plush cabriole, was a young duke fast asleep, with a book resting gently on his chest. The peaceful expression on his face suggested he was completely lost in a dream world of his own creation. The entire scene was so serene and captivating that I found myself unable to look away.
As I approached him, my steps slowed down, not wanting to disturb him. I finally made it to his side and decided to take a seat beside him. I couldn't help but admire his striking beauty. Every feature of his face was perfectly crafted, from his sharp jawline to his piercing eyes.
With conviction in my voice, I said, "You are incredibly handsome. Your quiet presence is even more captivating than the freshness of the morning."
As I faced him, he suddenly opened his eyes and spoke, "Tell me I'm handsome when I'm awake, alright honey." His sudden action hit me like a brick, and I found myself unable to breathe for some time. I could only stare at him in disbelief. "Hey, hey, are you even breathing? Gosh, hey, breathe," he said, concern evident in his voice as he shook me.
I pushed him away and told him that what he did had scared me. "Are you okay now?" he asked, looking genuinely worried. I nodded my head in response, still in shock from his action. He let out a deep sigh, then said, "So…I'm handsome to you, huh?" with an air of arrogance.
My entire body was overcome with embarrassment, and my face turned beet red as I blushed. I couldn't believe he had said that to me. The moment felt awkward and uncomfortable, and I couldn't wait to get away from him.
'Oh my God! He heard that', I was literally screaming on the inside.
~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~
Librarian Sofia Amber
20 year old young lady
Hair vanilla colour
Creole iris
Wears designed glasses
A mana user with low levels in mana
Speciality : telekinesis
Same height as Miya
____________•°•°•____________