Cecil nodded to himself, then turned to Maria. "The carriage is ready?" he asked, and Maria nodded. "Yes, Master Cecil. I'll escort you downstairs." Cecil followed her out of his room, his eyes scanning the hallway as they walked.
As they made their way downstairs, the servants bowed to him, their faces polite and respectful. Cecil barely acknowledged them, his gaze flicking over them without any warmth or interest. He knew he had to maintain his usual demeanor, the cold and distant facade that had become second nature to him. For his own safety, he had to act like the old Cecil, the one who was selfish and rude. Anything less would raise suspicions.
Cecil's eyes narrowed slightly as he thought about this. He had to be careful about what he said and did, especially in front of the servants. One misstep, and his stepmother would know about it. He made a mental note to be cautious, to keep his guard up at all times.
As they reached the entrance hall, the carriage was waiting for him, and Cecil stepped inside without a word. Maria handed him a small package. "Your lunch, Master Cecil," she said. Cecil took the package without a glance or a word of thanks, his eyes fixed on the passing scenery outside the carriage window. He was already lost in thought, his mind racing with strategies and calculations, all centered around maintaining his disguise and staying one step ahead of his stepmother.
As the carriage rolled away from the estate, Cecil gazed out the window, taking in the sights and sounds of the outside world. The scenery was a welcome distraction from the thoughts swirling in his mind. He watched as the buildings and trees passed by, feeling a sense of freedom he hadn't experienced in a long time.
Cecil's eyes lingered on the people walking along the streets, going about their daily lives without a care. He felt a pang of envy, realizing that he'd never truly known freedom in his old world. His childhood had been marked by confinement and fear, with his parents exerting strict control over every aspect of his life. He and his sister had been prisoners in their own home, never allowed to venture out or experience the world beyond their estate.
The memories of his parents' abuse still lingered, and Cecil's expression darkened as he thought about the past. He had been trapped, with no escape or respite. But now, as he gazed out the window, he felt a glimmer of hope. Maybe, just maybe, he could find a way to break free from the shadows of his past and forge a new path.
The thought was both exhilarating and terrifying, and Cecil wasn't sure if he was ready to take that step. But for now, he was content to simply observe the world outside, and let the scenery wash over him, a small but vital step towards healing and freedom.
After a while, the carriage pulled up to a grand mansion, and Cecil's eyes widened as he took in the imposing structure. The mansion was a testament to Professor Ryder's wealth and status, with intricate stone carvings and beautifully manicured gardens.
The carriage door opened, and Cecil stepped out, his eyes scanning the surroundings. A liveried footman stood waiting to assist him, and Cecil nodded curtly as he followed the servant into the mansion.
As he entered the grand foyer, Cecil's eyes were drawn to the elegant decor and the warm glow of the fireplaces. Professor Ryder emerged from a nearby room, his piercing blue eyes sparkling with intelligence.
"Ah, Master Cecil, welcome to my humble abode," Professor Ryder said, his voice warm and welcoming. "I trust you're ready for a stimulating discussion on history?"
Cecil's expression remained neutral, but his eyes narrowed slightly as he nodded. He was here to learn, but he wouldn't let his guard down easily. Not yet, at least. "I'm ready, Professor," he said, his voice cool and detached.
Professor Ryder smiled, his eyes gleaming with enthusiasm as he began to speak. "Today, Master Cecil, we'll be discussing one of the most fascinating figures in medieval history - Eryndor Thorne, the legendary hero who saved our kingdom from the darkness that threatened to consume it."
Cecil's expression remained impassive, his eyes fixed on Professor Ryder with a hint of disinterest. He leaned back in his chair, his voice dripping with boredom. "So, what's the point of this story, Professor?"
Professor Ryder's enthusiasm didn't waver. "Eryndor Thorne was a young nobleman who lived during a time of great turmoil. The kingdom was plagued by war, famine, and disease, and many thought all was lost. But Eryndor, driven by his sense of justice and compassion, rallied the people and led a rebellion against the forces of darkness that had taken over the land."
Cecil raised an eyebrow, his tone skeptical. "And I'm sure he was a perfect hero, with no flaws or weaknesses."
Professor Ryder's smile grew wider. "Actually, Master Cecil, Eryndor's story is far more complex than that. He possessed a rare combination of bravery, intelligence, and compassion. But there's more to the story... Eryndor's legacy is shrouded in mystery, and some say he was more than just a hero..."
Cecil's expression didn't change, but he listened intently, pretending not to be interested. He shrugged, his voice nonchalant. "I'm sure it's all very fascinating, Professor. But what's the relevance to our studies?"
Professor Ryder's eyes sparkled with amusement, as if he saw right through Cecil's facade. "Ah, Master Cecil, you'll find out soon enough."