The final harmony of the hymn echoes over the benches and the numerous retinues. The masses are now in full swing, and I can feel that I am part of something greater than myself, for people from all origins are united for one purpose.

I took a deep breath. The church smells like dust and incense, and there is a unique mixture of perfume and sweat brought by humans.

The morning sun kisses my little exposed skin. After all, I'm wearing my best clothes.

Vanity can be a sin, but I really like the blue dress I wear. It suits me perfectly. Dad was standing next to me, and I could feel him watching the others, as if he was guarding me.

The young man who stares will be noticed, and he will tell me. People who stare too long will be reprimanded later.

A smiling old man dressed in the black robe of a Catholic priest walked up to us. His sincere smile lightened my mood.

Father-in-law Armand's sermons were always so wise and to the point, much better than the pastor of Mobile. The man was so annoying, always yelling about some eternal curse and witch.

"Welcome, everyone, welcome to Mass. I'm glad to see you all today. Easter is approaching, and I am preparing to deliver a sermon on the dangers of overeating and overindulgence. Alas, yesterday I received a meatloaf from Mrs. Cantrell, and you know how much I hate hypocrisy!"

I laughed, like most of the people present.

"So, I'm afraid I'm going to talk about something less pleasant. I have noticed some clashes between members of Mr. Sutton's parishion. On religious issues. ”

The atmosphere became grim.

"Why, I can't blame you for your confusion. I remember myself being a loyal subject of King Louis XV, going out to hunt a nasty goldfish, and when I came back, I was a Spaniard!"

We laughed again, and the old priest toyed with us like a violin. I don't really mind; He's a good guy.

"I'm going to make tea, I'm French again, thank you!"

The Spaniards in the congregation laughed even harder, probably because Father Armand's pronunciation was so unpleasant.

"Now we are sold by Napoleon himself to the United States of America. Why, no wonder we're all at a loss. I now have more flags than shirts, and I've thought about turning one of them into the other. Hehe. Yes. As a result, our parish now has a considerable number of Protestants. ”

When it comes to those infidels, there are quite a few people who complain.

"But I ask you this question. When Jesus argued with the Pharisees or Sadducees, did He slap them in the face? Did he throw manure at their women?"

Their complaints disappeared immediately, and many of them blushed with shame.

No, he didn't know, because he knew that all people should have the opportunity to hear God's Word. We must all remember that we become Christians not because of whom we are against, but because of whom we love. I don't want to go on like this anymore.

Instead, love your neighbor as the Bible commands, because Protestants are not your enemies, but people who walk different paths. No, the real enemy is a demon-worshipping slut like Ariana. ”

“…… What!?"

"You writhe like a dissolute prostitute, writhing beneath the beast. He took you there on the first night and you enjoyed it. Neither Sodom nor Gomorrah had ever seen such shameful fornication!"

"What? ! You're wrong. Father! Tell them!"

"I should have drowned you the day you were born. Look at what you've become. You can't even stand here. ”

Smoke came out of my bloodied robes and soon caught fire. I tried to escape, but I was blind. I fell on the wooden bench and bruised my hand. It hurts so much. I rolled on the ground, screaming in pain. Angry whispers surrounded me as the congregation watched me die.

"Here, Kate, this should help."

Father Armand poured water on me, but the fire could not be extinguished. I vanished into a blue light and a piercing scream.

I opened my eyes and saw green sheets and a bedpost made of mahogany that I had never seen before. Another day, another room, I remember it wasn't home. I was at best a reluctant guest in a gilded cage.

I'm still reminiscing about that moment. I only had a few minutes of sobriety and calm before it arrived.

Thirst.

I don't know much about this pain. I feel like every time I'm told more, thoughts flow out of my head like a sieve.

Jimena told me that when I saw him again tomorrow, everything would be clear, and I hoped so. It is not healthy to be in this fugue state for a long time.

As longing grew in my heart, I experienced a new morning ritual. It's a strange thing. Thirst is not confined to the throat and mouth.

It dug through my chest, my belly, and my mind with its greedy claws. Every train of thought was disrupted, and whenever I lost concentration, my feet would lead me to the door.

No, it doesn't last.

I found another set of grey ones, the same as yesterday. It's tight around my hips and I suspect I'm wearing Jime

A's spare set.

As soon as I finished speaking, there was a knock on my door.

When I opened it, I paused. What if it's not my temporary mentor, but the Lancaster Vixen and her lackeys?

They promised to let me go. They also don't move me as much as what they say, and they're not the only ones who hurt me.

It was then that I noticed a very small glass window in the doorway, no bigger than a thumbnail. I looked and lo and behold! I can clearly see who's out there!

It must be some kind of magnifying glass, or a short telescope. I always thought it was a luxury to have running water in every room, until now. I wouldn't be surprised if their toilets were studded with diamonds. Speaking of toilets, why didn't I... Well?

What was I thinking?

There was another knock at the door, this time more urgently, and it woke me from my fantasy. I turned it on to Jime

Say hello.

"Forgive me, dear friend, my mind is still as muddled as ever, and I wish you had brought me something to drink. I'm so thirsty!"

"Have a good day, Ariana," she replied with a smile, "this is Ricardo, another servant of the Cádiz family. She said that I didn't notice another man until now.

He was well dressed, but serious. He was tall, with brown eyes and curly brown hair, and looked at me unkindly. I greeted him politely, and he greeted him politely.

"Goodbye, Seño

ita。 ”

Then, Shimena asked me to let them both in, which I guess is acceptable because Shimena can be considered a guardian.

After that came more meditation, and when we left, Ricardo stayed. I felt refreshed, and the desire also released its grip on me.

"Lord Cylon, please come and see me. He is the leader of the tribe of Cádiz, and we should go to him now. ”

"What? Jimena, you must be kidding! This dress ......"

I didn't dare to criticize too much, because she gave it to me so politely, however, the pants were indecent, especially those that, well, very tight hips.

Jime

A notices my discomfort and smiles knowingly as he addresses my concerns.

"Don't worry, young man. Gray is the color of the knight's medal, and wearing it will keep you at a distance from the court. You claim neutrality and impartiality, and that will only help you. ”

I pondered her words silently.

"You've blown my mind, Jimena, it's a thoughtful statement."

"Well, I'm not so blind to the vicissitudes of politics. I usually ignore them. Recent events have forced me to reassess my priorities. ”

I suspect it had something to do with her falling out of favor and subtly restraining herself from asking. Soon, we reached the edge of many apartments and came to another set of doors.

It seems that each floor contains a square of separate living areas, and each side is surrounded by waiting rooms where visitors can congregate.

"How many floors does this building have?" Why are there no windows?" I asked.

"If you count the basement as one floor, there are only five floors. That is, you only see one side of the fortress, and there are many more places on this level that you didn't get a chance to visit. As for the absence of windows, that's for safety. ”

"Hmm."

"You'll ......"

"Yes, yes, I'll understand sooner or later."

"One more night, and everything will be clear."

She opened the door to a large boudoir. Comfortable seats are gathered in groups of three or five, and other people who are dressed in gorgeous clothes are mixed together.

We ignore them and head to another door. Jimena knocked on the door and walked in without waiting for an answer.

We entered a small vestibule. The furniture and décor were all baroque, like everything I saw after I left the dungeon.

This place is designed to be lived, not to be lived. The oak chest in the corner convinced me that the sole occupant of the place was as much a guest as I was, though he might have been willing.

A man sits at a desk facing the entrance. He calmly put down his pen and stood up to welcome us.

There is no doubt that he is on the same level as Mrs. Moore. His aura oppressed my mind, and although it lacked maturity, it had a sturdy feel that reflected his physique.

The leader of the Cadiz clan has a pair of cornflower-blue eyes and, like me, black curls that reach his muscular shoulders.

His facial features are masculine and elegant, paired with a mischievous mustache and mustache.

Heck, he must have come out of some pirate tale and was ready to rob and rape! However, I was pleased to see that his gaze was thoughtful rather than overly hostile. As soon as he came to us, I saluted, partly to hide my surprise.

This man is extremely muscular! I believe that Ogedai has nothing on him, and that he can bend metal with his bare hands. Do all the members of the Cádiz family pay so much attention to physical fitness?

"Rise".

I did, remaining silent as the man measured me.

"Ariane's greetings. I am Lord Silen of the House of Cádiz, and I welcome you to my humble home. ”

"It's my pleasure, Lord Cyren."

The man turned to Ximena with a wry smile.

"Like you said, Squire."

In his mouth, the title of squire turned into a compliment to past achievements, and not an insult. I could tell that Ximena was grateful.

"Tell me, Ariana, has my quartermaster explained the situation to you?"

"She told me about the Imperial Council and the sudden arrival of the master."

"I see. Did she explain your role in it?"

"My role?"

Lord Sylon just giggled.

"As our Shimena expected. I bet her first instinct would have been to shove the sword into your hand. ”

Gimena hissed jokingly and crossed her arms under his mocking reproach.

"Lord Neelari always kept his word and consistently followed some rules, but he was otherwise quite notorious."

"You say as if he committed an atrocity, but I'm sure I heard about it on the news because he looks like he's in his early forties!"

Before he could continue, Duke Theron's eyes winked at Ximena.

"You'll be amazed, little Ariane. He was much older than he looked, and over the years he traveled around the mill.

I think you've realized that our world is different from the world. The torture was kept secret, and in our society he had earned quite a reputation, which made his visit all the more unusual.

The land is remote. We, who sojourn here, did not come, but were sent. A person of his stature will appear here and let everyone know that he exists, and he must have some purpose.

The conclave began three days ago and is scheduled to end tomorrow. Yes, I am aware of Lord Neelari's promise. I assure you, not a single chick will leave without the blessing of its owner. You can look forward to the ceremony with confidence. ”

I'm not worried, but of course I'm worried now!

"What happens if I don't?"

Master Theron seemed overwhelmed for a moment, so Ximena took my hand and continued to comfort me.

Eventually, the stress in the minds of the unplumpt birds becomes too great, and they return to the state of drones. Rest assured, though, it certainly won't happen unless there's a major catastrophe. ”

"Yes, Ariana, everything will be fine. I shouldn't even mention it. If you will, let's focus on the topic and why you're here.

"You see, Lord Nelari asked us for hospitality, and we agreed. The next night he stayed with Mrs. Moore for a long time, and we suspect that she was the reason for his appearance, or rather, her property.

"Mrs. Moore manages one of the Lancaster's ships there, and as far as we know, she is the only one in a position to provide him with access back to the Middle East, or wherever he wants."

"Can't he arm his own ship?" A man of his stature can't be without money, right?"

"That's not the problem. Long-distance transportation requires special logistical support. It is easier and safer to make a deal with Mrs. Moore than to open the way yourself. ”

"I have a lot of questions......"

"I know," he said with a smile, "I'm sorry. As I said, Lord Nelari is our guest and therefore he will not force Lady Moore to serve him, so he needs chips. You. ”

"Me?"

"Yes. As the only person who could help him, Mrs. Moore had a monopoly, and she found herself under no obligation to accelerate the discussion. Contrary. Lord Nelari was thought to be wealthy. Very, very rich. She can use this to influence her status, and that's what you have to do. ”

"I don't understand."

"Do you know of your master's other prions?"

"Everyone thinks I'm a gibberish lunatic who barely speaks?"

Two Cádiz people giggled at my angry face. Ah, but it's nice to have a polite companion, though I don't consider Master Theron a friend.

"So. Devourers, well, in the past, there have been quite a few prions. He doesn't care much about them, more often than not, he just uses them as tools. ”

They are not me. Once we get acquainted, my master will have no choice but to see that I am the one who should run away for him.

When necessary, he raises them to become psychopathic lunatics and then releases them. They destroyed the entire parish before it was stopped. ”

“W… What?!!"

No, they must be wrong. This is nonsense! It is absolutely impossible for one person to do it, and I may have heard that it is absolutely impossible for him to do it.

What was I thinking?

I blinked. Ximena gestured to Master Theron, and he smiled apologetically at me.

"Forgive me, I forgot about myself. Suffice it to say that you are the sword of Damocles hanging over Lady Moore's head, so stop there. ”

"I don't know how?"

Shimena held my hand tightly. I've forgotten how cool and soft they are.

"Trust me, he's telling the truth."

I am the sword of Damocles hanging over Mrs. Moore's head.

"I see."

"Good. Lord Neerari uses your presence as a driving force for negotiations. He is not obligated to limit the damage you may cause based on his distorted sense of honor. ”

Lord Ceren leaned back in his chair and stretched out his hands.

"The effect on you is twofold. First of all, you'll be closely monitored here, and most opinions will, hostile. The second thing is, if everything goes according to our vision, you're left at the mercy of the Lancasters. ”

"What, this is terrible!" They hate me! Can you ...... I'm sorry to ask you like that, can you do something about it?"

"Alas, no. We have no reasonable way to claim against you. The best outcome for you is to serve them. ”

You must be joking, or you underestimated their contempt! They attacked me mercilessly, and without any provocation! I'm a fool if I'm at their mercy!" I replied in frustration.

"It's a test of your character. Mersin and Lambert are the only competent subordinates of Lady Moore, who have been sent to evaluate you while the others are dragging their feet.

Thankfully, they were terrible, and she saw through their embarrassing attempts. They see you for a short time, which should work in your favor. If for no other reason, Melusin will keep you alive out of curiosity. ”

They gave me a few seconds to gather my thoughts.

"So, won't my master take me with him?"

"There's no chance, though I know you'll try anyway. If you want to survive, you have to plan accordingly, and I know how to do that. Tell me, Ariana, what exactly do you want?"

I wish it had never happened, but I know it's wishful thinking. Shimena told me to trust her, there was no cure for the disease. So, what I want most is......

"I want to go home, back to my friends and family. I wanted to take my pet I don't remember and take a walk along the sugar cane fields in the morning light.

I want to open a winery and bring wealth to my family. I want to catch an egret one at a time and eat it roasted on charcoal.

I just want to make this madness stop. ”

I was on the verge of crying again, and I refused to cry in front of the leader of the tribe of Cádiz. My enthusiastic speech only scared the hosts into speechlessness. I hope they don't feel like I'm complaining and pitiful, but I comfort myself that I definitely have a reason to be a little dramatic!

Some unspoken messages passed between them until Master Theron finally turned his attention to our conversation.

"If going home is your greatest wish, we will do our best to give you this opportunity. It will be a difficult task, however, you need to make it worth our time. ”

"You're mercenary!" I replied in shock.

"One of the obligations I have to my tribe is to protect the tribe members and make sure that the resources are put to good use. You want me to risk people and money to save a stranger. ”

"I thought I was asking for a private request."

"Ariane, it's not enough for the two of us. I'm sorry. ”

I put my head in my hands, trying to accept my situation. Finally, I calmed down and asked God about His conditions.

"Very well, so what do you want me to do?"

When you're with them, look for information about their business activities. Lists, deeds, and property rights, we can make use of this information. ”

"You want me to spy on you?!"

"Yes. I assure you, those bastards don't deserve your loyalty. ”

"It's not like that!" Surveillance is so ......"

"Hate?"

"Exactly."

"Trust me, after tomorrow, you'll change your mind about this."

"Well, I'll do my best, although I'm afraid you might be overestimating me."

After a few pleasantries, Shimena and I left the Cadiz enclave, where she dragged me to her testing ground and taught me basic fencing techniques, including posture and how to hold a sword.

I managed to learn something before I went to bed.