The servants

The library brimmed with cupboards filled to the brim with books, each section meticulously organized.

As I stepped into the room, my gaze swept across the shelves until it settled on a particular tome, its title proudly emblazoned in gilded letters upon its thick brown cover. "My Society." The words beckoned me, promising insights into the social structure and current state of affairs in this intriguing world.

Resolving to satisfy my curiosity, I reached out and retrieved the book. Its weight in my hands hinted at the depth of knowledge contained within its pages. I settled into a comfortable chair, preparing myself for a journey of discovery.

The opening pages revealed that the imperial family reigned as the pinnacle of respect and influence in this realm. Furthermore, the kingdom itself was divided into two Dukedoms—the Mackil Dukedom and the Craters Dukedom. At present, Lord Brakinson Carters held the esteemed position of Duke of Carters, wielding significant control over the kingdom's military forces.

Delving deeper, I learned that within this intricate societal tapestry, four Marques Houses held considerable sway. One of these influential houses was House Silage. However, it was disheartening to find that slavery persisted in this world, as it remained legal. Notably, the western market housed a prominent guild dedicated to this abhorrent practice.

Another intriguing revelation emerged—the scarcity and immense importance of fire elementalists, individuals blessed with rare abilities to control and manipulate fire. Their unique skills marked them as prized assets within this realm.

My mind raced with thoughts and plans, and a particular task emerged as a pressing priority. I needed to acquire a cure for the poison that coursed through my veins, a concoction reliant upon a rare herb. To secure this vital ingredient, I resolved to explore the auction house, where rare commodities exchanged hands.

A whisper of a name pulled me from my thoughts, causing me to speak it aloud. "Jannat..."

The door swung open, and Jannat, ever attentive, stood before me. "Yes, my lady?"

A surge of determination fueled my next words. "I wish to meet with all the servants who attend to my needs."

Jannat's response was swift and obedient. "Yes, my lady. I shall summon them immediately."

"They are to gather in my chambers," I added, the command slipping easily from my lips.

"Very well, my lady," Jannat acknowledged before exiting the room to carry out my instructions.

Within moments, a knock resounded on my door, signaling the arrival of the servants. "Enter," I called out, eager to begin this process of assessment and discernment.

One by one, they filed into the room—five servants in total, accompanied by Jannat, the head maid, and the chef.

"State your names and your assigned duties," I commanded with an air of authority.

"Miss, I am Anna. I attend to your hair," the first servant spoke.

"Miss, my name is Mary. I assist with your bath preparations," the second servant introduced herself, her voice filled with a hint of nervousness.

"Young miss, I am Agatha, your dresser. It is my duty to select and assist you in adorning your dresses," the third servant declared with a touch of pride.

"Miss, I am Dali, the gardener," the fourth servant presented himself with a simple and earnest demeanor.

"Miss, I am Chef Stella, your personal chef," the fifth servant stated, exuding an air of culinary expertise.

"Greetings, young miss," spoke Clara, the head maid, with an air of authority. "I am the esteemed head maid responsible for the meticulous organization of all affairs following the butler's lead. My name is Clara, and I bear the honorable title of Baroness."

Helen, the young lady of the mansion, inquired, "Pray tell, Clara, how long have you and your fellow staff members been faithfully serving in this esteemed household?"

With a respectful demeanor, Clara replied, "Miss, I have had the privilege of serving you since your tender age of one year, witnessing your growth and nurturing your well-being."

She continued, "Anna and Mary commenced their dedicated service to this estate four years ago, while Jannat joined our ranks three years past, coinciding with your fifteenth year of life."

"Dali, the offspring of a longstanding gardener in these very grounds, was born and raised here, destined to follow in his father's horticultural footsteps. Furthermore, our esteemed chef has been skillfully catering to the culinary desires of this household for a span of four years," Clara explained with meticulous attention to detail.

Acknowledging the information, Helen responded, "Very well, Clara. Thank you for the comprehensive overview."

Turning her gaze towards Jannat, Helen posed another query, "Jannat, could you kindly enlighten me on the individuals involved in the preparation of my medicinal concoctions?"

Jannat, overcome with a mixture of nervousness and respect, stammered, "Miss... Tha... that... The esteemed gardener diligently assists me in sourcing the requisite herbs, which are then deftly handled by the skilled hands of our esteemed chef to create your medicinal brews. I, myself, am honored to be of service to you."

Grasping the information, Helen expressed her gratitude, saying, "I appreciate your efforts, Jannat. Thank you for your dedicated service."

With a final directive, Helen dismissed the staff, stating, "You may all retire for the night. I find myself in need of rest."

"Yes, young miss," they acknowledged in unison before departing from the room.

As the moon ascended, casting its gentle glow upon the mansion, Helen contemplated the need to delve into the whereabouts and external connections of her loyal household staff. The seed of suspicion had been planted, and she resolved to investigate the matter in due course.

In the serenity of the night...

"Greetings, dearest Daddy. How fared your day?" Helen warmly greeted her father upon his return.

"Oh, my beloved child, though the day was fraught with weariness, your presence fills my heart with boundless joy," her father replied, a twinkle of affection shining in his eyes.

A smile graced Helen's face as she responded, "And I, too, am overjoyed to see you, Daddy."

Laughter resonated through the room as the Duke, her father, expressed his delight, "Haha, haha," the hearty laughter echoing in the elegant chamber, a testament to their loving bond.