I sat in the solar, the morning sun highlighting the golden rings in my eyes. I didn't look up when the doors opened and Ishu was led in. She looked even smaller here, surrounded by the cold white marble and heavy silk tapestries of House Regulus.
"You came," I said, finally setting my tea down.
"I... I did, My Lady. I am ready to serve you." She looked at me with wide, hopeful eyes, likely expecting me to hand her a silk gown and a seat at my table.
"Good. But do not think this is a gift, Ishu. In this house, everyone proves their worth. For now, you will work under Mia. You will learn the layout of the estate, my schedule, and how to handle my belongings without breaking them."
The hope in her eyes flickered and died, replaced by a flash of something sharp. Was it anger?
"Under... the maid?" she whispered.
"Unless you think a Baroness's title makes you better at service than a woman who has been here for ten years?" I raised an eyebrow.
"Take her, Mia. Start with the library. Every book must be dusted."
As she bowed and left, I saw her hands clench into fists. I didn't realize that by trying to harden her, I was only sharpening the knife she would eventually use on me.
It was understandable, in a way. She was the daughter of a family that had lost everything. If I remembered the rumors correctly, the Duke—her father—had been a greedy man, scamming his own people until they reached their breaking point. They had turned to the Crown Prince for help.
Arwin had assigned his cousin, Theodore, to handle the matter. He told Theodore that if he cleaned up the mess, he would be granted a wish. Theodore's wish was simple: a title, and the Duke's total downfall. That was how House Crisis rose on the ashes of Ishu's family.
My eyes shifted back to her as she walked away. Her gaze wandered over the luxury of my home, but every time Mia corrected her, her features hardened. I told myself it was none of my business.
I could have given her jewelry, money, or a new status, but in this world, nothing comes without work. That applies to everyone—even those born with a silver spoon.
"Mia, any letters?" I asked.
"Yes, My Lady. There are several from the Church. They are asking for a visit."
The Church... they claim to worship a God who listens to everyone. I had long ago asked for a wish that never came true. I didn't believe them. They claimed I was a 'Child of God' because my eyes held this golden glow. Bullshit.
I noticed Ishu lingering by the door, listening to every word. Hm... interesting.