Darien took the main seat, whilst Celeste stood with measured grace beside him.
"My lord, pray, partake."
Celeste set the bowl of Boeuf Bourguignon before him. Darien tasted it, and the rich flavor, slow-cooked and well-seasoned, matched his own careful hand.
He regarded Celeste with surprise.
"Wait… you made this yourself?"
Celeste inclined her head, eyes glimmering with hope.
"How's it taste?"
"'Tis excellent."
Rare praise from Darien made Celeste quietly rejoice.
"How's everything at Brindlemark lately?" he inquired between bites.
"Nothing much, Darien. Just some strangers showing up. Looks like the merchants from the last auction have stirred up some interest outside."
"Then we must keep strict account of all who enter. Every stranger must be registered, and any found with ill intent shall be cast out immediately."
Though Darien prizes talent, he is no less stern.
"I did what you asked. No troublemakers so far—most folks are just curious about Brindlemark's rare stuff."
"Hath no one yet come to seek employ within our halls?"
Darien values the welfare of his household highly; he finds it unlikely that none would apply.
"Some want to serve, yet they linger near Brindlemark. All are yours, Darien. Word hasn't spread far, and it'd be crazy to head out recklessly with winter coming."
Darien had nearly forgotten how cruel the winter proved—how many succumb to hunger or frost. It'd be stupid for ordinary folks to risk their lives on half-true rumors.
Those who now make their way to Brindlemark are merchants or the wealthy, able to journey at their ease.
"Aye, so long as Brindlemark prospereth, many a capable hand shall seek to serve. Tell me, what news of our vacant posts?"
"By thy strict commands, only a third have been taken, yet these few have greatly aided the workings of Brindlemark."
"Good. And let it be known—the latrine I commanded must be built."
Darien's mind recalled the filth that once plagued the streets.
"Of course, this I specially ordered. All the houses being timber, construction is quick. Even yesterday, two public latrine were ready. Though many aren't used to it, the fines keep them in line."
Celeste had thought about Brindlemark's sanitation before, yet knew she couldn't control the people's habits. A simple task, yet only Darien could come up with such a clever plan. She couldn't help but admire his wit.
After discoursing on matters concerning Brindlemark, Darien found Celeste diligent and true to her charge.
Now the town prospered, and the number of folks grew each day.
Darien could ease his mind, tending to the greater affairs and leaving lesser matters to be managed in time.
"Follow me."
Celeste inclined her head and trailed him.
"What be this?" she murmured.
Her eyes fell upon a gown of pure white, hanging upon a hanger—custom-made by Verity at Darien's request.
"Does this work for you?" he asked.
Though unadorned with jewels, its workmanship was exquisite, the design unlike any she had seen. Her lashes sparkled with wonder.
"This… is for me?"
"Indeed. Did I not take thy measure afore? 'Tis made for thee alone," Darien replied with a gentle smile.
Celeste stepped forth and lightly touched the fabric, the delicate feel stirring fondness within her.
Beside it lay others—some for daily wear, some most lavish, others shaped to grace the form. Each differed in style, and Celeste's eyes widened in awe.
"And this one's for you, just like I promised."
Darien stepped aside, revealing a full-length mirror.
"'Tis most wondrously large." Celeste whispered, covering her mouth in wonder.
She recalled Darien's words of late, that he would gift her a larger looking glass. Now it stood before her, taller than herself, showing every part of her form.
Truly, he had spoken truth.
At the last auction, a bust sold for 800 gold coins. This mirror must be worth near 2,000, and the garments alongside—each fit for a lordly sum.
It had been long since she felt so cherished, save for the memory of her late father.
"D-Darien I..."
Celeste stepped forth abruptly. Before Darien could move, she wrapped her arms around him and buried her face against his chest.
"Uh…"
Startled, Darien could scarce move. Noting her slight tremble, he drew a quiet breath and laid a gentle hand upon her head.
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🔍 Did you know?
- Ancient civilizations like Rome—and even medieval European towns—had public latrines, and fines were often imposed to enforce hygiene. Sanitation was considered crucial for public health long before modern plumbing!
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