CHAPTER#29: Junkyard?

Luciana paled at Mina's words. What does she mean by that?

"What do you mean?" she asked, her voice quieter than she intended.

Mina lowered her gaze, hesitating before speaking again. "Your eyes, milady… they don't look happy. There's sadness in them."

Luciana felt her heart clench. Could she see through me this easily? The thought sent a wave of unease through her. If even a maid could sense her unhappiness, how long before others noticed? How long before her plans unraveled?

In her homeland, divorce was a near impossibility—unless a woman suffered abuse. Only then was she granted the right to leave, and any man who mistreated his wife faced divine retribution. Yet, fidelity was a strict commandment. A woman who betrayed her vows would be punished severely, a measure taken to deter infidelity across the empire. Those unwilling to marry sought refuge in the temple, where they received noble status and a fragment of divine power in return for their lifelong devotion.

Luciana bit her lip, recalling the old laws. How could I forget?

She forced a small smile and met Mina's concerned gaze. "You don't need to worry. I wouldn't abandon my duties."

Mina still looked uncertain, so she continued, "It's true—I miss my home. Everything changed so suddenly. This place still feels unfamiliar to me. But…" She inhaled slowly. "That doesn't mean I will cower in fear."

Mina brightened. "So that means—"

A sudden knock interrupted her. She quickly turned. "I'll see who it is, milady. Please enjoy your breakfast."

As Mina moved to answer the door, Luciana lifted the metal lid covering her meal. A warm cloud of steam rose, carrying the rich aroma of freshly baked bread and fruit. The simple yet hearty meal was a welcome change from the raw, bloodied meats she had been served before. At least this is edible, she thought, tearing a crusty loaf in half.

Meanwhile, Mina received the package at the door. "The master sent these for the lady," the servant announced before departing.

Mina returned and placed the neatly folded garments on the bed. "His lordship was unsure of your preferences, so he did his best to select dresses that might suit you."

Luciana blinked, setting her bread aside. Erebus chose my clothing? The idea was almost laughable. She rose and walked over, examining the fabric with care. The dress was a soft, muted green, its long sleeves and hem lined with white fur. The embroidery along the collar was intricate but not excessive, a balance between elegance and simplicity.

She ran her fingers along the fabric. "Did he… really choose this?"

Mina chuckled knowingly. "I understand your doubt, milady. Master has no eye for fashion."

Luciana sighed. That makes more sense.

"Master values quality above all," Mina continued. "Sometimes he just picks the most expensive item and calls it a day. Honestly, he's a bit of a miser."

Luciana smirked, a little amused by the insight. "So it wasn't just him, was it?"

Mina shook her head. "Brother most likely helped him. He's the one who manages all the household expenses, including the master's wardrobe."

Luciana followed her into the bathing chamber. The large stone tub was filled with warm, clear water, but something was missing. No scents… no oils… She exhaled softly. The luxurious floral and fruity fragrances she once enjoyed were absent here.

Mina helped her bathe and dress, layering the undergarments to keep her warm. As the young maid combed through her silvery-white hair, Luciana broke the silence.

"Mina… have you ever heard of a demon with golden eyes?"

Mina's hands briefly stilled before resuming their gentle motions. "That's just a legend, milady," she said carefully.

Luciana studied her reflection in the polished silver mirror. A legend, huh?

"You look stunning, milady!" Mina suddenly beamed.

Before Luciana could respond, another knock sounded.

Mina let out an exasperated sigh. "Again? I'll check."

Opening the door, she narrowed her eyes. "Brother, what brings you here?" she hissed.

Jafar ignored her hostility and stepped forward. "I've come to escort the lady to the courtyard."

Luciana appeared behind Mina, peering past her. "Sir Jafar, I appreciate the thought."

Jafar remained still for a moment, his gaze lingering on her.

Mina frowned. "Don't stare at her like that. It's rude." She smacked his arm hard.

Jafar grunted, clutching his torso. "Kuhh— I… apologize, milady." He bowed slightly. "It's just that… your beauty is truly otherworldly."

Luciana felt warmth rise to her cheeks. "Thank you," she murmured, still slightly stunned. But more than that, she was impressed—Mina's strength is terrifying.

They exited the chambers, walking through the dimly lit hallways adorned with stained glass. The patterns on the windows matched those woven into the fortress's ancient tapestries, depicting warriors and mythical beasts in elaborate scenes.

The corridor eventually opened into an overgrown expanse, vines creeping over old stone and patches of moss thriving in the cracks of forgotten ruins.

Luciana slowed her steps. "What is this place?"

Jafar smirked. "This?" He gestured around them. "This used to be the fortress's oldest training ground. Once, warriors clashed here to prove their strength. Now…" He scoffed. "Now it's just an abandoned junkyard."

A gravelly voice rose from behind a cluster of tall bushes. "Now, now, Sir Jafar, don't be calling my garden an overgrown junkyard."

Luciana and Jafar turned sharply.

From behind the greenery, a hunched old man stepped forward, his deep-set eyes filled with amusement.

He bowed his head slightly. "To have the young madam visit such a humble place—it is an honor indeed."

Luciana recognized him immediately. "Mister Darren," she greeted with a warm smile. "The pleasure is mine."

Of all the people in this fortress, he was one of the few she felt she could approach.