Devoted Village

I looked around the house. It was so quiet and comforting; I felt like I could spend my whole life here. But it had a weird feeling to it. Was it because it was still adapting to this change? Perhaps it was something else. I couldn't put my finger on it. No matter how comforting this house was, there was definitely something else going on—not only the house but the village. 

Despite the villagers' hospitality, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of suspicion. They had given us a place to stay, but was it out of kindness or was there something more to it? I tried to push these thoughts aside, reminding myself that this was a time for relaxation, a time to forget and wait for Kaiserin's return.

All of a sudden, I heard a knock.

I cautiously go towards the door before I hear a voice speak.

"Uh, the knight's wife? Are you in there? I brought food while your husband went out!" I recognized this voice; it was the villager who gave us the key to this house.

I opened the door only to be greeted with a smile that went from ear to ear while he was carrying a turkey. The villagers hurried inside while putting down the turkey and then said, "I didn't get your name back there, along with your husbands. I'm Dorian, the villager's chief. And you might be?"

Honestly, I don't think I should give my real name. It's a noble name, so I had to come up with something quick.

"I'm, uh, Esther! Yes, Esther.."

Dorian smiled, coming towards me. He spoke once more with awe and affection: "You're very beautiful. Your voice offers a symphony of mellifluous melody that scratches my brain. You're fortunate to be able to live a life of beauty and grace. Your husband must be a fortunate man."

My smile was forced, a clear sign of my discomfort. Dorian's actions only added to my unease. He approached the turkey, slicing a piece and placing it on the table, leaving the fork beside it. His words, though well-intentioned, only served to heighten my awkwardness.

"Sorry to make you feel awkward, but it's rare to find a woman who looks stunning like you. I hope you enjoy your night!"

Dorian left me in silence. I felt slightly weirded out by him. Kaiserin, where are you?