In Celestira's Room — Night
Candles flickered as cold wind hissed through the window. Celestira's eyes scanned the room. "Elfanso!" she called, her voice sharp.
Silence. She threw the blanket aside. "If you're done sulking, I need your help."
"Hmph! Don't talk to me," came a muffled reply. Elfanso clutched the bedsheet, wide-eyed. "You almost died… I had no idea!"
Celestira's gaze hardened. "Why should I tell you my plans? You are my servant, not my equal. Obey. That is all."
Elfanso swallowed. "B-but… if something happens to you—" His voice wavered. "You drowned in your past life. And if you die in this one too…"
"I said, don't worry about that." Her voice was low, unyielding. Without another word, she slammed the door.
---
Outside, servants scattered at the sight of her. I can't trust him yet, she thought, fingers clenching her dress. An elf who just appeared days ago… trusting him blindly would be foolish, especially after what happened before.
Her heels tapped the floor as she moved through the corridor. A stifled laugh, the sound of snickers, froze her in place.
What are they whispering about?
"The Former Duchess… involved in adultery!"
Celestira's blood ran cold.
To be continued...