As I opened my eyes, I was greeted by the light of the sun illuminating my face quite gently and giving me some warmth to combat the chilly morning air. I also could hear the birds chirping outside, which meant only one thing… It was the start of a brand new day.
"It seems like I overslept a little." I mumbled as I raised my upper body and rubbed my eyes to combat my drowsiness.
I usually wake up before first light, but after what happened last night with Eliana, there was no way I would want to get up from bed early.
"That was wonderful… We finally were able to do it again. I missed this wonderful feeling." I smiled as I remembered the things I had done with my partner last night.
I was scared that Eliana had gotten bored of me. I was scared that she no longer found me attractive. After all, it had been a long while since the two of us had been intimate with each other.
Eliana had been neglecting our relationship due to her duties and I could understand it to a degree since I knew that she was actually quite busy, but it also made me feel like our relationship was not a priority to her…
"I'm glad that wasn't the case. She truly showed me how much she loved me last night. Even though she said she was being gentle, my whole body is all sore…" I smiled as I felt butterflies in my stomach.
The numbness I felt in my legs, while it was somewhat uncomfortable it also made me happy beyond belief.
"Speaking of which… I suppose Eliana was the one to get up early this time around" I said as I looked around the room for my lover.
There was no sight of Eliana and I couldn't sense her presence nearby.
It was just me in the room, lying alone on her bed. All the candles I had lit last night to please Eliana had long been extinguished.
I was usually the one who had to wake up Eliana, so not being able to do so this morning made me feel a little empty and sad.
I could see the mess my loved had left behind when she was deciding what clothes to wear. I could also see the sexy underwear she had given me to wear last night scattered all over the room.
"I suppose she had work to do. She did say that she had to take care of a lot of things regarding Julius's prize for winning the tournament." I nodded to myself as I remembered my lover's words. "A shame she wasn't able to convince his Majesty to let Julius and Marina get married in the future. But things go as Eliana thinks they will go, I'm sure they will be fine." I simply shrugged those worries aside.
I suppose it is time to begin the day. If I remember correctly, Agnes told me that today I had to tend to the garden and then assist in the kitchen to prepare the Empress's lunch. Oh, I also need to clean up the baths along with Tian Sebas in the afternoon. I have a busy day ahead, it seems.
As I made a mental list of all the tasks I had to do, I decided to get up from bed. Since I was feeling quite giddy due to what happened between Eliana and I, I was certain that I could do all those tasks and more in the blink of an eye.
"Now, where did I put my clothes…?" I said as I walked around the room using the covers of the bed to hide my naked body.
It took me a while to find my maid uniform since it had somehow ended underneath the bed.
"Why was it under the bed? Was this some kind of prank from Eliana? I see how it is." I giggled at the idea of my lover messing with me. "Gotta make her pay for this tonight." I grinned from ear to ear.
Okay… Time to start the day! There's things to get done around the castle!
"Though… I should take a bath after tidying everything up here. I can't make her think that I am a lazy lover." My body was still a bit sticky due to my own sweat and other things related to my intimate time with Eliana.
Since I was an expert when it came to cleaning Eliana's messes, it didn't take me too long to clean her room.
Sadly, my uniform ended up a little bit dirty so I had the excuse to fetch a new one. Still, it was definitely worth it since I left Eliana's room sparkling clean!
"Time to get a relaxing bath before a long day of work!" I said with excitement as I opened the door to the hall.
As soon as I took a step into the hall, I was welcomed by the sight of two people I knew very well. A dwarven woman and an older human gentleman.
It was Tian Sebas and Agnes, the head butler and head maid respectively. Tian Sebas was carrying a big and heavy-looking suitcase.
"Oh! Good morning, Ms. Agnes, Mr. Tian! I know that I'm very late for work, but Lady Eliana required my services with some urgent matters last night. I promise I’ll give my best efforts into finishing all of my tasks" I decided to speak vaguely about why I woke up so late. I wasn’t lying about doing my best at work though.
Tian Sebas and Agnes already knew the nature of my relationship with Eliana, so there were no issues talking to them about it, but it was still a little embarrassing for me to mention it.
“Marie, you don’t have to worry about doing any chores today.” Agnes said with a serious expression.
“Really? But you said yesterday that the main bath was really dirty and that it needed some rather urgent cleaning… You also put me in charge of tending the gardens for the week. I had plans to grow some new flowers on the southernmost part of the garden too…” I questioned Agnes.
It might not seem like it, but I do enjoy working as a maid here in the castle. I don’t have much contact with men, which is good since I feel aversion toward most of them due to me having been captured and made a slave, and I often left to my own devices as long as I complete most of my tasks.
One of such tasks, my favorite by the way, is to tend to the gardens. It reminds me of the times I spent with my mother sowing the fields and taking care of our plants. I think I’m better at dealing with plants than people.
I wonder how everyone back home is doing… It has been three years since I was captured and enslaved. I’ve sent letters back home with merchants and adventurers, but no response ever came…
Hmm…
Sometimes this job can get a bit lonely since I don’t deal with other people other than Eliana, Agnes and Tian Sebas or the little princesses, but that is fine by me. Someone like me who was born in a rural village is not made to deal with all the other noble girls that serve in this castle anyway.
All in all, I’m content with my life right now. I have a job I like, I don’t have many friends but I have rekindled the spark with my lover and I have some very understanding bosses. I’m also well clothed and well fed. I would like to have news from home, but life’s good at the moment.
“Marie, it is just as Agnes said. You won’t have to do chores anymore.” Tian Sebas said while matching Agnes' seriousness.
“Is that so…? That’s a bit of a bummer… I was really hoping to grow the seeds I got from a merchant the other day. I was planning on growing a patch of night roses to commemorate the victory of the princesses champion.” I was really disappointed that I couldn’t work on the gardens.
Speaking of which… I wonder how Julius is doing. Eliana didn’t say anything last night other than the fact that her brother wouldn’t allow him to marry Marina due to his social standing, which is bullshit in my opinion. Why does social standing matter when we are talking about love? Eliana and I are pretty happy together.
Anyways, I got off a little distracted… I was wondering whether the boy had already woken up or not. Since Eliana hasn’t said anything, I assume that he hasn’t yet. I really hope he wakes up soon. His family must be worried sick since he fainted after he won the tournament… Hell, I am too! He can’t die before giving me that hug I wanted!
Wait… That reminds me… Why did Eliana ask me last night what I really thought of him? That was a little weird.
“That is a splendid idea, Marie. But believe me, the gardens and the main bath will be taken care of. There’s something more important for us to do.” Agnes said while shaking her head.
“Oh? Is this a request from Eliana? She left without saying a word this morning, so I was a bit miffed. I’m glad that she has something for me to do today!” My mood was immediately lifted thanks to the thought of my lover.
“You could say that she has a request that only you can do.” Tian Sebas nodded and confirmed my suspicions. Tough, his mood seemed awfully dejected all of a sudden. “If you may follow us please.” He said before he turned around and started walking.
“We will explain everything as soon as we reach our destination.” Agnes encouraged me to walk with them before she followed Tian Sebas.
“Alright! I’m excited to see what this mysterious task is! I will finish it in the blink of an eye!” I was cheerful and confident due to the wonderful night I had spent with Eliana.
I obviously didn’t fall behind and began to follow Agnes and Tian Sebas down the long gigantic halls of the castle.
“So… What’s the suitcase for? Of course, if you don’t mind me asking.” I was a little curious about the heavy-looking suitcase Tian Sebas was carrying.
“We will also explain that as soon as we reach our destination. You only need to know that it will help you during your next assignment.” Agnes replied while not telling me any specifics.
“Okay then… So it is some sort of magic tool? I can’t wait to hear about Eliana’s request.” I didn’t particularly mind not being told anything. I was too happy to care.
“You could say that it is the only magic tool you will ever need, Marie.” Tian Sebas said. I could somehow detect some sadness in his voice.
“Oh, really? That’s pretty neat.” I was a bit excited to see the mysterious magic tool they were hiding.
“You have said too much, Tian.” Agnes suddenly scolded him.
“My apologies, Ms. Agnes.” Tian Sebas lowered his head to apologize as he walked.
The three of us continued to walk in awkward silence after that exchange between Agnes and Tian. I didn’t know how to address what they had said, so I just decided to stay quiet. It was better to not make things more awkward.
We took many turns and walked through halls I had never seen before, even in my three years living in the castle. It was astonishing that the first Marcelian Emperor had supposedly built such a fortress with his own hands.
“So… Did you two watch the tournament? I believe you must be quite happy that Julius won the tournament, Mr. Tian? He is your student after all! You must have taught him a thing or two when it comes to fighting. Eliana has told me quite a lot about your past as the Dark Reaper during the last civil war. Hope you don’t have anything against a Semdalian like me…” I smiled at Mr. Tian as I tried to break the heavy awkward silence between us.
“Pride… I believe you could say that I feel some pride toward the boy. Though, I personally haven’t taught him anything related to fighting as I have only taught him etiquette. But in a way, he reminds me of myself during my youth. He sought that strength and built it with his own efforts. That in itself is a very admirable quality.” Tian Sebas gave me his honest opinion about Julius. “And no, I never bore much of a grudge toward our neighboring countries and their people. War is a horrible thing that drives people to become monsters. I only killed those who raised a sword against Marcel, nothing more and nothing less.” Tian Sebas said with conviction.
“On that, I think we both agree… War is such a terrible thing.” I nodded in agreement with the old butler. “What about you Agnes? What do you think of the champion of our dear princesses?” I asked the head maid for her opinion.
“You want my opinion? I think that the boy has surpassed all the expectations I had of him. It is not surprising that he did, especially considering that he was trained by the Skull Crusher, his wife and even his other apprentice, the Demonic Wind. The boy was on the right path to success with them as his mentors.” Agnes explained. “I think that the boy will prove to be a reliable ally and friend for Marina in the future.” She gave a nod of approval.
“Oh, yes. They will certainly be good friends.” I smirked while wagging my eyebrows. All three of us knew what our dear crown princess felt about a certain black-haired boy.
I hope that Eliana is eventually able to make her brother agree to a marriage between those two. Eliana also told me that she had managed to recruit Marina’s mother, in other words, the Empress for this endeavor, so I suppose it is only a matter of time before they manage to convince the Emperor. I think that Marina and Julius look cute together.
Anyway, Agnes, Tian Sebas and I continued to walk through the halls while having a simple chit-chat about a myriad of unimportant topics. In the blink of an eye, we reached our destination. I had been taken by Agnes and Tian Sebas outside the castle gates.
For some reason, there was no one around. No guards, no other servants, no other nobles… The main gate was barely opened for us to come outside, but that was it. There was a carriage waiting outside with a familiar mountain of a man sitting in front with the reins in hand.
“Hey… Isn’t that the Skull Crusher? I wonder what he is doing here…” I said out loud.
“He is here to take you away.” Agnes replied.
“Huh… Alright? Does it have anything to do with Eliana’s request? Where is he going to take me?” I was a little confused about what was going on.
“It is related to it.” Tian Sebas answered my first question. “He will take you away from the capital. From here on, Agnes will answer your questions. I shall go and have a word with Frederick and put away your luggage.” He said while looking at the suitcase.
“Luggage? I didn’t bring anything with me… Oh, I see! You already packed everything for me! That’s very kind of you. Thank you, Mr. Tian.” I smiled at the old butler before following his gaze to the heavy suitcase.
I wasn’t expecting to go out of the capital, but since it was something related to my lover, I didn’t particularly care. It would serve as a nice change of pace actually. Perhaps a little vacation with Eliana would make the two of us become closer together.
Tian Sebas didn’t respond. He merely bowed to me slightly before walking toward the carriage.
“Alright, so what do I need to do and why am I being sent away from the capital? Is Eliana going to join me on the way or is she already there?” I turned my head toward the dwarven maid. “Ah, is this a surprise planned by her? A surprise vacation perhaps? Sometimes she likes to go all out with her pranks and surprises, so it wouldn’t be a far-fetched idea that it is a secret vacation.” I spoke happily to Agnes.
Contrary to the response I was expecting to receive, I was hit by the grim reality… Something that was going to shatter my heart into a thousand pieces… I should have gotten a clue that something was wrong when I saw the expression Agnes had on her face, but I didn’t…
“Marie. With a heavy heart, I regretfully inform you that this will be your last day as a maid of this castle.” Agnes’s face was filled with regret and sorrow, yet she stood there as serious as she could be.
“Huh…? What do you mean, Agnes…? Please tell me you are joking… Please… If this really is a joke, it is really distasteful.” I was not amused in the slightest by what she had told me. My mood had plummeted down considerably.
“I wish I was.” She said the words I dreaded the most.
“W-W-Why? Did I do something wrong? Why are you telling me this? I am Eliana’s servant! The two of us are… The two of us are…-” I was about to begin to shout but I was stopped by Agnes.
“I know. The two of you were lovers, I know it well.” Agnes nodded while rummaging through her pockets.
“Were? What do you mean by were?! We ARE still lovers! We never broke up with each other! Where’s Eliana and why are the two of you doing such a distasteful thing?! I thought the two of you liked me as an employee and as a friend! Why would you do something so cruel to me?!” I still decided to shout at Agnes. I was so enraged and confused that I wasn’t able to realize what was actually happening.
“I say that you were lovers because this was ordered by Lady Eliana herself.” Agnes explained while embracing me. “I’m sorry… I’m sorry about it all. That is all I can say.” Agnes hugged me quite tightly.
Huh…? What does she mean by that? Did Eliana seriously order this? Why would she? I know… This is just another one of her silly pranks that got out of control, right? It must be that… Right?
As a million thoughts ran through my mind, I started to grow more and more desperate. The expression Agnes had on her face was what sold to me that this was no prank… I was being dumped in the worst way possible.
“Eliana… Why…? You said it yesterday… You said that you loved me…? Then… Why…?” I couldn’t help but look toward the castle searching for the window of Eliana’s office. I was experiencing a complete heartbreak for the second time in my life.
The first time was when I got taken far away from my village by those horrible men. And now, I have lost my new home, my job, and most importantly, my lover…
“Come. I’ll escort you to the carriage.” Agnes tried to push me toward the carriage.
“No! I want to talk with Eliana! This must be some kind of mistake! If I offended her in any way, I’ll apologize! I’ll even beg her, but let me see her!” I struggled to break free from Agnes’s embrace, but it was futile. The dwarven woman was way stronger than I was.
“That I cannot do.” Agnes spoke with regret. “Please… Don’t make this more difficult for us. This is for your own good, so let’s get you to the carriage.” Agnes said while pushing me effortlessly.
“I said that I want to talk to her! Why can’t she come here and talk things out with me?! I really thought that we were in love with each other, then why is it so difficult to talk things out! I don’t know what I did wrong, but I will apologize and make up for it! Please! I beg you! Let me see her!” I struggled against the strength of the head maid, but she wouldn’t budge. “Why is this for my own good? If you were thinking about doing me some good, you would bring her here to break up with me if that’s what she truly wants!” I was enraged and frustrated.
“I told you, I cannot do that. Eliana gave us explicit orders to put you in that carriage and to never allow you to enter the castle again.” Agnes said as we got closer and closer to the carriage. As a result, Eliana and the castle got further and further away from me.
“At least make her explain herself! Is she really going to break up with me and throw me away?! Just like that?! What about the three years we spent together?! What about all the loving words we exchanged?! All the kisses! All the intimacy! Was it all a ruse?! Was I just used like a cheap hooker?!” I was furious and hurt toward Eliana and the situation she had created.
So what happened last night was just a lie… Everything we shared together was just a lie… I was just used… I was never rescued from that brothel because Eliana had fallen for me… No… I was just another sex toy for her…
I was angry, not only towards Eliana, Agnes and Tian Sebas for doing this to me but also at myself for not seeing this coming. I thought I could live a peaceful life at the castle with Eliana, but I guess it was impossible for someone like me…
I should have gone home when I had the chance… Mother… Father… I was a fool to think that Eliana actually loved me… I was a fool to believe that I had found my soulmate… I was a moron.
Before long my angry shouts became painful tears from the heartbreak. I wasn’t even struggling against Agnes anymore.
“I’m really sorry that things ended like this, but believe me, it is for your own good. These last three years, you were an excellent worker and a great friend. I’m sad to see you go, but this is for the best.” Agnes said with sadness. “But a piece of advice, I know that you’re angry at Eliana and heartbroken, but you should know Eliana better than the rest of us, so ask yourself a question… Would Eliana push you away just because she got tired of you? She’s not like her brother the Emperor. Make of that what you will.” She suddenly slipped a piece of paper in my hand. A letter.
I had to accept it, although unwillingly… My relationship ended and my former lover wasn’t brave enough to break things off with me face to face…
I was feeling completely drained, as if my life didn’t matter anymore. I no longer cared about anything, not Eliana, not Agnes, not Tian Sebas, not the princesses, not the castle, not my village or my family, and lastly whether I lived or died…
I was in terrible pain… Not physical but mental... I couldn’t feel anything else but pain and anguish and it was driving me insane.
“I know things are looking very grim for you and I’m sorry. But I know you, Marie. I know that you will recover from this. You’re stronger than you think.” Agnes said as she hugged me again. “Along with the letter, there are some funds that can last you your entire life, even if you spend them lavishly. The Skull Crusher is willing to take you to his village. It is up to you if you want to remain there or go back to your home country. Either way, those funds will secure you a peaceful life.” Agnes began to pack my back.
“I don’t want them… I don’t want the money… I want my life back… I want Eliana back… How…? How am I supposed to live without her now…?” I could only utter those words between sobs. Agnes’s shoulder was completely drenched due to my tears.
“As I said, that is not possible, Marie… Please just accept the money and read the letter as soon as you can. The Skull Crusher and his wife will take care of you, no matter what you decide to do from now on.” Agnes said as she stopped hugging me. “Now, head inside.” She motioned me toward the carriage where the Skull Crusher and Tian Sebas stood in wait.
The towering man and the old butler had opened the carriage’s door for me, revealing another familiar figure inside. It was a woman with long brown hair and a saddened smile. She was the wife of the Skull Crusher, Lilia. She was sitting there alone while looking at me.
I felt terrible under the gaze of everyone. The tears would simply not stop coming out as my broken heart mourned the loss of my second home and my relationship, or at least the illusion of it if there was ever one…
Since I was no longer struggling against Agnes, she had no issues to get me inside of the carriage. The suitcase they had prepared for my journey was laid underneath the seats in front of me.
“We made sure to pack everything you owned in there. It is enchanted with spatial magic, so there’s still plenty of space for you to store things in there. There’s also some food and medical supplies, should you ever need them for your journey.” Agnes spoke almost like a mother seeing their child go out into the world.
“Marie… There are no amount of words that can explain my sadness to see you go. I will only say that I enjoyed our time working together and the time you were learning under me. You're a marvelous young woman with a bright future and a long life ahead of you, so don’t do anything rash over your heartbreak. I wish you nothing but the best.” Tian Sebas bowed to me as he bid farewell to me.
What life? What future? What is a life without love? What future do I possibly have after losing everything I knew for the second time…? I wanted to retort and tell him all that but I was unable to do so. I just nodded in response.
“This is goodbye, Marie. I will miss you, but take care and make sure to read that letter. Remember my advice.” Agnes said those words before closing the door.
It didn’t take long for the Skull Crusher to return to his seat as the driver. He exchanged pleasantries with Agnes and Tian Sebas before bidding farewell. The entire time, his wife, Lilia was hugging me. She had pushed my head against her shoulder and held my hand lovingly. Her embrace was comforting and soothing, it somehow drew the pain away.
But still, I couldn’t help back my tears as the carriage began to move and the imperial castle was left behind… As we left my second home behind…
Soon, we began to travel through the familiar road that would take us to the lower city through the New Noble District.
“Hang in there, Marie. Every wound of the heart heals given enough time. For now, cry as much as you need and mourn your love. Make every tear count and then move on.” Lilia whispered those words as she held me in her arms. Even though I was probably older than her by far, she felt like a mother to me.
“It just hurts so much… I was used and then discarded… I thought she really loved me…” I whispered.
“Marie, I have known Eliana for the longest time. I have known her since my youth. She was one of my closest friends once, but she ruined that when she tried to kidnap my children to ensure our loyalty. I shall never forgive her for that.” Lilia said with a great amount of disdain in her voice, probably the same amount I was feeling toward my former lover. “Back then, Eliana was many things. A petty liar, a schemer, a bad drunk, an overconfident fool… I probably was most of those things too also combined with some anger issues... But you know? Even though Eliana lied as naturally as she breathed, she never lied when it came to talking about what she felt. I believe that every time she told you that she loved you was genuine. I can attest to that as her former friend.” Lilia defended Eliana, much to my surprise.
“Really…? Then why did she end things like this? If she really loved me, then why didn’t she say she was dissatisfied with our relationship? Why throw me away like this…?” I asked Lilia as I hugged her tightly. Her white dress was wet due to my streaming tears.
“That I cannot answer, as that is not something that I can reveal. I swore not to say anything.” Lilia said. “But if you want some answers, why not read the letter? It was written by Eliana after all.” Lilia pointed at the letter in my hands.
“I see…” I nodded weakly and looked at the letter in my right hand. I was nervous about its contents.
Until now, I was cursing Eliana’s name due to my heartbreak. But… What if the letter said that it was all a distasteful prank all along and we were fine? That she was just messing with me and that she wanted to marry me or something… I wished from the bottom of my soul that was the case.
If it was otherwise, my heart wouldn’t endure more pain…
“Should I really open it…? I’m scared…” I said to Lilia. I looked at her with desperation, almost begging for guidance.
“I cannot decide that for you. If you want answers, you have them in your hands. Just know that you will always have a shoulder to cry on and someone to support you while you are in our care.” She replied while shaking her head. She was not going to make a decision for me.
As I stared back at the letter, I was faced with a choice… To remain ignorant or to open the letter to know without knowing what Eliana wanted to tell me with its contents.
After pondering deeply, I couldn’t ignore what my heart desired. I decided to open the letter and read its contents despite not knowing what awaited me. It was a decision I regretted immediately.
As I opened my eyes, I was greeted by the light of the sun illuminating my face quite gently and giving me some warmth to combat the chilly morning air. I also could hear the birds chirping outside, which meant only one thing… It was the start of a brand new day.
"It seems like I overslept a little." I mumbled as I raised my upper body and rubbed my eyes to combat my drowsiness.
I usually wake up before first light, but after what happened last night with Eliana, there was no way I would want to get up from bed early.
"That was wonderful… We finally were able to do it again. I missed this wonderful feeling." I smiled as I remembered the things I had done with my partner last night.
I was scared that Eliana had gotten bored of me. I was scared that she no longer found me attractive. After all, it had been a long while since the two of us had been intimate with each other.
Eliana had been neglecting our relationship due to her duties and I could understand it to a degree since I knew that she was actually quite busy, but it also made me feel like our relationship was not a priority to her…
"I'm glad that wasn't the case. She truly showed me how much she loved me last night. Even though she said she was being gentle, my whole body is all sore…" I smiled as I felt butterflies in my stomach.
The numbness I felt in my legs, while it was somewhat uncomfortable it also made me happy beyond belief.
"Speaking of which… I suppose Eliana was the one to get up early this time around" I said as I looked around the room for my lover.
There was no sight of Eliana and I couldn't sense her presence nearby.
It was just me in the room, lying alone on her bed. All the candles I had lit last night to please Eliana had long been extinguished.
I was usually the one who had to wake up Eliana, so not being able to do so this morning made me feel a little empty and sad.
I could see the mess my loved had left behind when she was deciding what clothes to wear. I could also see the sexy underwear she had given me to wear last night scattered all over the room.
"I suppose she had work to do. She did say that she had to take care of a lot of things regarding Julius's prize for winning the tournament." I nodded to myself as I remembered my lover's words. "A shame she wasn't able to convince his Majesty to let Julius and Marina get married in the future. But things go as Eliana thinks they will go, I'm sure they will be fine." I simply shrugged those worries aside.
I suppose it is time to begin the day. If I remember correctly, Agnes told me that today I had to tend to the garden and then assist in the kitchen to prepare the Empress's lunch. Oh, I also need to clean up the baths along with Tian Sebas in the afternoon. I have a busy day ahead, it seems.
As I made a mental list of all the tasks I had to do, I decided to get up from bed. Since I was feeling quite giddy due to what happened between Eliana and I, I was certain that I could do all those tasks and more in the blink of an eye.
"Now, where did I put my clothes…?" I said as I walked around the room using the covers of the bed to hide my naked body.
It took me a while to find my maid uniform since it had somehow ended underneath the bed.
"Why was it under the bed? Was this some kind of prank from Eliana? I see how it is." I giggled at the idea of my lover messing with me. "Gotta make her pay for this tonight." I grinned from ear to ear.
Okay… Time to start the day! There's things to get done around the castle!
"Though… I should take a bath after tidying everything up here. I can't make her think that I am a lazy lover." My body was still a bit sticky due to my own sweat and other things related to my intimate time with Eliana.
Since I was an expert when it came to cleaning Eliana's messes, it didn't take me too long to clean her room.
Sadly, my uniform ended up a little bit dirty so I had the excuse to fetch a new one. Still, it was definitely worth it since I left Eliana's room sparkling clean!
"Time to get a relaxing bath before a long day of work!" I said with excitement as I opened the door to the hall.
As soon as I took a step into the hall, I was welcomed by the sight of two people I knew very well. A dwarven woman and an older human gentleman.
It was Tian Sebas and Agnes, the head butler and head maid respectively. Tian Sebas was carrying a big and heavy-looking suitcase.
"Oh! Good morning, Ms. Agnes, Mr. Tian! I know that I'm very late for work, but Lady Eliana required my services with some urgent matters last night. I promise I’ll give my best efforts into finishing all of my tasks" I decided to speak vaguely about why I woke up so late. I wasn’t lying about doing my best at work though.
Tian Sebas and Agnes already knew the nature of my relationship with Eliana, so there were no issues talking to them about it, but it was still a little embarrassing for me to mention it.
“Marie, you don’t have to worry about doing any chores today.” Agnes said with a serious expression.
“Really? But you said yesterday that the main bath was really dirty and that it needed some rather urgent cleaning… You also put me in charge of tending the gardens for the week. I had plans to grow some new flowers on the southernmost part of the garden too…” I questioned Agnes.
It might not seem like it, but I do enjoy working as a maid here in the castle. I don’t have much contact with men, which is good since I feel aversion toward most of them due to me having been captured and made a slave, and I often left to my own devices as long as I complete most of my tasks.
One of such tasks, my favorite by the way, is to tend to the gardens. It reminds me of the times I spent with my mother sowing the fields and taking care of our plants. I think I’m better at dealing with plants than people.
I wonder how everyone back home is doing… It has been three years since I was captured and enslaved. I’ve sent letters back home with merchants and adventurers, but no response ever came…
Hmm…
Sometimes this job can get a bit lonely since I don’t deal with other people other than Eliana, Agnes and Tian Sebas or the little princesses, but that is fine by me. Someone like me who was born in a rural village is not made to deal with all the other noble girls that serve in this castle anyway.
All in all, I’m content with my life right now. I have a job I like, I don’t have many friends but I have rekindled the spark with my lover and I have some very understanding bosses. I’m also well clothed and well fed. I would like to have news from home, but life’s good at the moment.
“Marie, it is just as Agnes said. You won’t have to do chores anymore.” Tian Sebas said while matching Agnes' seriousness.
“Is that so…? That’s a bit of a bummer… I was really hoping to grow the seeds I got from a merchant the other day. I was planning on growing a patch of night roses to commemorate the victory of the princesses champion.” I was really disappointed that I couldn’t work on the gardens.
Speaking of which… I wonder how Julius is doing. Eliana didn’t say anything last night other than the fact that her brother wouldn’t allow him to marry Marina due to his social standing, which is bullshit in my opinion. Why does social standing matter when we are talking about love? Eliana and I are pretty happy together.
Anyways, I got off a little distracted… I was wondering whether the boy had already woken up or not. Since Eliana hasn’t said anything, I assume that he hasn’t yet. I really hope he wakes up soon. His family must be worried sick since he fainted after he won the tournament… Hell, I am too! He can’t die before giving me that hug I wanted!
Wait… That reminds me… Why did Eliana ask me last night what I really thought of him? That was a little weird.
“That is a splendid idea, Marie. But believe me, the gardens and the main bath will be taken care of. There’s something more important for us to do.” Agnes said while shaking her head.
“Oh? Is this a request from Eliana? She left without saying a word this morning, so I was a bit miffed. I’m glad that she has something for me to do today!” My mood was immediately lifted thanks to the thought of my lover.
“You could say that she has a request that only you can do.” Tian Sebas nodded and confirmed my suspicions. Tough, his mood seemed awfully dejected all of a sudden. “If you may follow us please.” He said before he turned around and started walking.
“We will explain everything as soon as we reach our destination.” Agnes encouraged me to walk with them before she followed Tian Sebas.
“Alright! I’m excited to see what this mysterious task is! I will finish it in the blink of an eye!” I was cheerful and confident due to the wonderful night I had spent with Eliana.
I obviously didn’t fall behind and began to follow Agnes and Tian Sebas down the long gigantic halls of the castle.
“So… What’s the suitcase for? Of course, if you don’t mind me asking.” I was a little curious about the heavy-looking suitcase Tian Sebas was carrying.
“We will also explain that as soon as we reach our destination. You only need to know that it will help you during your next assignment.” Agnes replied while not telling me any specifics.
“Okay then… So it is some sort of magic tool? I can’t wait to hear about Eliana’s request.” I didn’t particularly mind not being told anything. I was too happy to care.
“You could say that it is the only magic tool you will ever need, Marie.” Tian Sebas said. I could somehow detect some sadness in his voice.
“Oh, really? That’s pretty neat.” I was a bit excited to see the mysterious magic tool they were hiding.
“You have said too much, Tian.” Agnes suddenly scolded him.
“My apologies, Ms. Agnes.” Tian Sebas lowered his head to apologize as he walked.
The three of us continued to walk in awkward silence after that exchange between Agnes and Tian. I didn’t know how to address what they had said, so I just decided to stay quiet. It was better to not make things more awkward.
We took many turns and walked through halls I had never seen before, even in my three years living in the castle. It was astonishing that the first Marcelian Emperor had supposedly built such a fortress with his own hands.
“So… Did you two watch the tournament? I believe you must be quite happy that Julius won the tournament, Mr. Tian? He is your student after all! You must have taught him a thing or two when it comes to fighting. Eliana has told me quite a lot about your past as the Dark Reaper during the last civil war. Hope you don’t have anything against a Semdalian like me…” I smiled at Mr. Tian as I tried to break the heavy awkward silence between us.
“Pride… I believe you could say that I feel some pride toward the boy. Though, I personally haven’t taught him anything related to fighting as I have only taught him etiquette. But in a way, he reminds me of myself during my youth. He sought that strength and built it with his own efforts. That in itself is a very admirable quality.” Tian Sebas gave me his honest opinion about Julius. “And no, I never bore much of a grudge toward our neighboring countries and their people. War is a horrible thing that drives people to become monsters. I only killed those who raised a sword against Marcel, nothing more and nothing less.” Tian Sebas said with conviction.
“On that, I think we both agree… War is such a terrible thing.” I nodded in agreement with the old butler. “What about you Agnes? What do you think of the champion of our dear princesses?” I asked the head maid for her opinion.
“You want my opinion? I think that the boy has surpassed all the expectations I had of him. It is not surprising that he did, especially considering that he was trained by the Skull Crusher, his wife and even his other apprentice, the Demonic Wind. The boy was on the right path to success with them as his mentors.” Agnes explained. “I think that the boy will prove to be a reliable ally and friend for Marina in the future.” She gave a nod of approval.
“Oh, yes. They will certainly be good friends.” I smirked while wagging my eyebrows. All three of us knew what our dear crown princess felt about a certain black-haired boy.
I hope that Eliana is eventually able to make her brother agree to a marriage between those two. Eliana also told me that she had managed to recruit Marina’s mother, in other words, the Empress for this endeavor, so I suppose it is only a matter of time before they manage to convince the Emperor. I think that Marina and Julius look cute together.
Anyway, Agnes, Tian Sebas and I continued to walk through the halls while having a simple chit-chat about a myriad of unimportant topics. In the blink of an eye, we reached our destination. I had been taken by Agnes and Tian Sebas outside the castle gates.
For some reason, there was no one around. No guards, no other servants, no other nobles… The main gate was barely opened for us to come outside, but that was it. There was a carriage waiting outside with a familiar mountain of a man sitting in front with the reins in hand.
“Hey… Isn’t that the Skull Crusher? I wonder what he is doing here…” I said out loud.
“He is here to take you away.” Agnes replied.
“Huh… Alright? Does it have anything to do with Eliana’s request? Where is he going to take me?” I was a little confused about what was going on.
“It is related to it.” Tian Sebas answered my first question. “He will take you away from the capital. From here on, Agnes will answer your questions. I shall go and have a word with Frederick and put away your luggage.” He said while looking at the suitcase.
“Luggage? I didn’t bring anything with me… Oh, I see! You already packed everything for me! That’s very kind of you. Thank you, Mr. Tian.” I smiled at the old butler before following his gaze to the heavy suitcase.
I wasn’t expecting to go out of the capital, but since it was something related to my lover, I didn’t particularly care. It would serve as a nice change of pace actually. Perhaps a little vacation with Eliana would make the two of us become closer together.
Tian Sebas didn’t respond. He merely bowed to me slightly before walking toward the carriage.
“Alright, so what do I need to do and why am I being sent away from the capital? Is Eliana going to join me on the way or is she already there?” I turned my head toward the dwarven maid. “Ah, is this a surprise planned by her? A surprise vacation perhaps? Sometimes she likes to go all out with her pranks and surprises, so it wouldn’t be a far-fetched idea that it is a secret vacation.” I spoke happily to Agnes.
Contrary to the response I was expecting to receive, I was hit by the grim reality… Something that was going to shatter my heart into a thousand pieces… I should have gotten a clue that something was wrong when I saw the expression Agnes had on her face, but I didn’t…
“Marie. With a heavy heart, I regretfully inform you that this will be your last day as a maid of this castle.” Agnes’s face was filled with regret and sorrow, yet she stood there as serious as she could be.
“Huh…? What do you mean, Agnes…? Please tell me you are joking… Please… If this really is a joke, it is really distasteful.” I was not amused in the slightest by what she had told me. My mood had plummeted down considerably.
“I wish I was.” She said the words I dreaded the most.
“W-W-Why? Did I do something wrong? Why are you telling me this? I am Eliana’s servant! The two of us are… The two of us are…-” I was about to begin to shout but I was stopped by Agnes.
“I know. The two of you were lovers, I know it well.” Agnes nodded while rummaging through her pockets.
“Were? What do you mean by were?! We ARE still lovers! We never broke up with each other! Where’s Eliana and why are the two of you doing such a distasteful thing?! I thought the two of you liked me as an employee and as a friend! Why would you do something so cruel to me?!” I still decided to shout at Agnes. I was so enraged and confused that I wasn’t able to realize what was actually happening.
“I say that you were lovers because this was ordered by Lady Eliana herself.” Agnes explained while embracing me. “I’m sorry… I’m sorry about it all. That is all I can say.” Agnes hugged me quite tightly.
Huh…? What does she mean by that? Did Eliana seriously order this? Why would she? I know… This is just another one of her silly pranks that got out of control, right? It must be that… Right?
As a million thoughts ran through my mind, I started to grow more and more desperate. The expression Agnes had on her face was what sold to me that this was no prank… I was being dumped in the worst way possible.
“Eliana… Why…? You said it yesterday… You said that you loved me…? Then… Why…?” I couldn’t help but look toward the castle searching for the window of Eliana’s office. I was experiencing a complete heartbreak for the second time in my life.
The first time was when I got taken far away from my village by those horrible men. And now, I have lost my new home, my job, and most importantly, my lover…
“Come. I’ll escort you to the carriage.” Agnes tried to push me toward the carriage.
“No! I want to talk with Eliana! This must be some kind of mistake! If I offended her in any way, I’ll apologize! I’ll even beg her, but let me see her!” I struggled to break free from Agnes’s embrace, but it was futile. The dwarven woman was way stronger than I was.
“That I cannot do.” Agnes spoke with regret. “Please… Don’t make this more difficult for us. This is for your own good, so let’s get you to the carriage.” Agnes said while pushing me effortlessly.
“I said that I want to talk to her! Why can’t she come here and talk things out with me?! I really thought that we were in love with each other, then why is it so difficult to talk things out! I don’t know what I did wrong, but I will apologize and make up for it! Please! I beg you! Let me see her!” I struggled against the strength of the head maid, but she wouldn’t budge. “Why is this for my own good? If you were thinking about doing me some good, you would bring her here to break up with me if that’s what she truly wants!” I was enraged and frustrated.
“I told you, I cannot do that. Eliana gave us explicit orders to put you in that carriage and to never allow you to enter the castle again.” Agnes said as we got closer and closer to the carriage. As a result, Eliana and the castle got further and further away from me.
“At least make her explain herself! Is she really going to break up with me and throw me away?! Just like that?! What about the three years we spent together?! What about all the loving words we exchanged?! All the kisses! All the intimacy! Was it all a ruse?! Was I just used like a cheap hooker?!” I was furious and hurt toward Eliana and the situation she had created.
So what happened last night was just a lie… Everything we shared together was just a lie… I was just used… I was never rescued from that brothel because Eliana had fallen for me… No… I was just another sex toy for her…
I was angry, not only towards Eliana, Agnes and Tian Sebas for doing this to me but also at myself for not seeing this coming. I thought I could live a peaceful life at the castle with Eliana, but I guess it was impossible for someone like me…
I should have gone home when I had the chance… Mother… Father… I was a fool to think that Eliana actually loved me… I was a fool to believe that I had found my soulmate… I was a moron.
Before long my angry shouts became painful tears from the heartbreak. I wasn’t even struggling against Agnes anymore.
“I’m really sorry that things ended like this, but believe me, it is for your own good. These last three years, you were an excellent worker and a great friend. I’m sad to see you go, but this is for the best.” Agnes said with sadness. “But a piece of advice, I know that you’re angry at Eliana and heartbroken, but you should know Eliana better than the rest of us, so ask yourself a question… Would Eliana push you away just because she got tired of you? She’s not like her brother the Emperor. Make of that what you will.” She suddenly slipped a piece of paper in my hand. A letter.
I had to accept it, although unwillingly… My relationship ended and my former lover wasn’t brave enough to break things off with me face to face…
I was feeling completely drained, as if my life didn’t matter anymore. I no longer cared about anything, not Eliana, not Agnes, not Tian Sebas, not the princesses, not the castle, not my village or my family, and lastly whether I lived or died…
I was in terrible pain… Not physical but mental... I couldn’t feel anything else but pain and anguish and it was driving me insane.
“I know things are looking very grim for you and I’m sorry. But I know you, Marie. I know that you will recover from this. You’re stronger than you think.” Agnes said as she hugged me again. “Along with the letter, there are some funds that can last you your entire life, even if you spend them lavishly. The Skull Crusher is willing to take you to his village. It is up to you if you want to remain there or go back to your home country. Either way, those funds will secure you a peaceful life.” Agnes began to pack my back.
“I don’t want them… I don’t want the money… I want my life back… I want Eliana back… How…? How am I supposed to live without her now…?” I could only utter those words between sobs. Agnes’s shoulder was completely drenched due to my tears.
“As I said, that is not possible, Marie… Please just accept the money and read the letter as soon as you can. The Skull Crusher and his wife will take care of you, no matter what you decide to do from now on.” Agnes said as she stopped hugging me. “Now, head inside.” She motioned me toward the carriage where the Skull Crusher and Tian Sebas stood in wait.
The towering man and the old butler had opened the carriage’s door for me, revealing another familiar figure inside. It was a woman with long brown hair and a saddened smile. She was the wife of the Skull Crusher, Lilia. She was sitting there alone while looking at me.
I felt terrible under the gaze of everyone. The tears would simply not stop coming out as my broken heart mourned the loss of my second home and my relationship, or at least the illusion of it if there was ever one…
Since I was no longer struggling against Agnes, she had no issues to get me inside of the carriage. The suitcase they had prepared for my journey was laid underneath the seats in front of me.
“We made sure to pack everything you owned in there. It is enchanted with spatial magic, so there’s still plenty of space for you to store things in there. There’s also some food and medical supplies, should you ever need them for your journey.” Agnes spoke almost like a mother seeing their child go out into the world.
“Marie… There are no amount of words that can explain my sadness to see you go. I will only say that I enjoyed our time working together and the time you were learning under me. You're a marvelous young woman with a bright future and a long life ahead of you, so don’t do anything rash over your heartbreak. I wish you nothing but the best.” Tian Sebas bowed to me as he bid farewell to me.
What life? What future? What is a life without love? What future do I possibly have after losing everything I knew for the second time…? I wanted to retort and tell him all that but I was unable to do so. I just nodded in response.
“This is goodbye, Marie. I will miss you, but take care and make sure to read that letter. Remember my advice.” Agnes said those words before closing the door.
It didn’t take long for the Skull Crusher to return to his seat as the driver. He exchanged pleasantries with Agnes and Tian Sebas before bidding farewell. The entire time, his wife, Lilia was hugging me. She had pushed my head against her shoulder and held my hand lovingly. Her embrace was comforting and soothing, it somehow drew the pain away.
But still, I couldn’t help back my tears as the carriage began to move and the imperial castle was left behind… As we left my second home behind…
Soon, we began to travel through the familiar road that would take us to the lower city through the New Noble District.
“Hang in there, Marie. Every wound of the heart heals given enough time. For now, cry as much as you need and mourn your love. Make every tear count and then move on.” Lilia whispered those words as she held me in her arms. Even though I was probably older than her by far, she felt like a mother to me.
“It just hurts so much… I was used and then discarded… I thought she really loved me…” I whispered.
“Marie, I have known Eliana for the longest time. I have known her since my youth. She was one of my closest friends once, but she ruined that when she tried to kidnap my children to ensure our loyalty. I shall never forgive her for that.” Lilia said with a great amount of disdain in her voice, probably the same amount I was feeling toward my former lover. “Back then, Eliana was many things. A petty liar, a schemer, a bad drunk, an overconfident fool… I probably was most of those things too also combined with some anger issues... But you know? Even though Eliana lied as naturally as she breathed, she never lied when it came to talking about what she felt. I believe that every time she told you that she loved you was genuine. I can attest to that as her former friend.” Lilia defended Eliana, much to my surprise.
“Really…? Then why did she end things like this? If she really loved me, then why didn’t she say she was dissatisfied with our relationship? Why throw me away like this…?” I asked Lilia as I hugged her tightly. Her white dress was wet due to my streaming tears.
“That I cannot answer, as that is not something that I can reveal. I swore not to say anything.” Lilia said. “But if you want some answers, why not read the letter? It was written by Eliana after all.” Lilia pointed at the letter in my hands.
“I see…” I nodded weakly and looked at the letter in my right hand. I was nervous about its contents.
Until now, I was cursing Eliana’s name due to my heartbreak. But… What if the letter said that it was all a distasteful prank all along and we were fine? That she was just messing with me and that she wanted to marry me or something… I wished from the bottom of my soul that was the case.
If it was otherwise, my heart wouldn’t endure more pain…
“Should I really open it…? I’m scared…” I said to Lilia. I looked at her with desperation, almost begging for guidance.
“I cannot decide that for you. If you want answers, you have them in your hands. Just know that you will always have a shoulder to cry on and someone to support you while you are in our care.” She replied while shaking her head. She was not going to make a decision for me.
As I stared back at the letter, I was faced with a choice… To remain ignorant or to open the letter to know without knowing what Eliana wanted to tell me with its contents.
After pondering deeply, I couldn’t ignore what my heart desired. I decided to open the letter and read its contents despite not knowing what awaited me. It was a decision I regretted immediately.
