“So, this is the benefactor who rescued the young lady,” Mrs. Magdalene addressed Matthias.
Matthias responded with a reluctant nod, his awkward demeanor suggesting a disdain for formalities.
Magdalene expressed her gratitude to Matthias for rescuing the lady. She then issued instructions to the lower servants regarding Matthias’s education. Under Magdalene’s orders, other servants escorted Matthias away, while Magdalene herself guided Odelliana to her quarters.
“The young man you brought will be provided with new clothes and instructed in the proper conduct of this household. Upon completion of his training, he’ll be assigned solely to your service. Please, fret not.”
“I never expected Father to permit Matthias to remain by my side,” Odelliana admitted, surprised.
“Ordinarily, we wouldn’t keep outsiders as servants,” Magdalene explained. “However, Lord Blair’s letter mentioned the boy’s bravery in saving your life, which warranted an exception.”
This is all so confusing, Odelliana thought. Without even a glance at his injured daughter, they make an allowance for the boy who saved her?
Magdalene opened the door leading outside and crossed through the main house.
Surely they’re not planning to isolate me in some forgotten corner of the estate? she worried.
They continued further away from the main house. As she had anticipated, a coachman awaited them discreetly. They rode in a carriage and arrived at a small annex situated at the far end of the marquis’s estate wall.
“This will be your residence from now on,” Magdalene announced.
“It’s a rather simple yet peaceful place,” Odelliana observed.
Magdalene offered Odelliana a gentle pat on the shoulder, as if in sympathy. “…Even within the estate grounds, it’s likely not much different from your previous living conditions. Perhaps Master believed a secluded location would be more conducive to your recovery.”
Magdalene’s words were masterfully crafted. She skillfully presented the situation in a way that seemed reasonable.
Magdalene explained, “The Duke’s main mansion sees frequent visitors, creating a noisy environment unsuitable for recovery. Therefore…”
Odelliana interrupted, “There’s no need for such elaborate measures. I understand why I’m here. Will meals be served separately?”
“Yes,” Magdalene replied. “Meals with medication will be provided at 7 AM, noon, and 6 PM. Additionally, medical check-ups are scheduled between 2 and 3 PM. Please be available during that time. After 4 PM is designated for your walks. While you’re out, the annex will be cleaned, and your bedding will be changed.”
Upon entering the annex and listening to the housekeeper’s explanation, Odelliana noticed armed soldiers standing guard. Their stoic expressions hinted at their battlefield readiness.
“Who are they?” she inquired.
“They are elite knights assigned for your protection and the security of this place,” Magdalene assured her.
“Knights?” Odelliana echoed, surprised.
“The master hand-picked them to ensure your safety. They will maintain a round-the-clock guard around the location.”
Guard? More like constant surveillance, Odelliana thought cynically.
Inside, five maids and a male servant awaited Odelliana. Magdalene introduced them, saying, “These are your assigned attendants. The young man here will assist the one you brought with you.”
The room assigned to her was spacious yet oddly empty, most furniture slots remaining bare. Only a bed, table, and chairs stood amidst the gloom. Even sunlight seemed reluctant to penetrate the dimness, drawing a humorless laugh from Odelliana.
Adella was right, she thought. Ultimately, she wasn’t here for recovery. This remote annex at the edge of the Duke’s estate was a gilded cage, intended to keep her out of sight. It was painfully clear – her parents didn’t want her.
Confined within these walls, her supposed “guards” were nothing more than watchful eyes, tasked with reporting her every move. A bitter chuckle escaped her lips as she stood alone in the stark room.
The suffocating reality settled in – this new life wouldn’t be any easier.