The carriage began to approach the gates of my duchy. The familiar landscape of Elarion stretched around me — well-tended green fields, ripening crops, and, in the distance, the stone structures of the castle. The weather was mild, and the sound of the wheels echoed through the quiet streets.

  The castle guards watched me from afar as I approached. Some nodded, recognizing the duke’s return. Movement in the central square slowed for a moment; some townspeople paused to watch the carriage pass. I could feel the curious gazes, perhaps wondering about their leader’s travels and encounters.

  Upon reaching the castle’s inner courtyard, Luna and the coachman stepped down from the carriage. The environment resumed its usual rhythm, but there was a subtle anticipation in the air — as if the duchy knew that changes were coming.

  The castle, with its imposing stone walls, seemed more welcoming than ever. Inside, everything remained in order, but I knew I would soon have to make important decisions — about the Draegnir and what might lie ahead.

  The mission was far from over, but now it was time to reflect on the next steps, within the walls of my home.

  As I entered the Verdelume mansion, the familiar scent of polished wood and fresh flowers enveloped me. The servants moved quietly, carrying out their tasks with efficiency. Then I saw her: Maria, near the entrance. Elegant as always, her attentive gaze fixed on me.

  She approached with a slight smile, though her eyes revealed curiosity.

  “Sir, it's good to have you back. How was your journey?” she asked in a soft yet firm voice.

  “It was good, Maria. The beastfolk — who should now be called Draegnir — are a people much like the elves, but simpler, more connected to fauna than flora. They’re peaceful. Now, I just have to wait for them to decide on my proposal.”

  Maria listened closely, her eyes showing genuine interest. She weighed each word carefully, and I saw a subtle concern emerge in her gaze.

  “So, they’re a reclusive people seeking peace and harmony with nature. That could be advantageous, Sir, if we can integrate their skills into our structure. But as you mentioned, the decision lies in time and dialogue.”

  She paused briefly.

  “If anything is needed — to receive the Draegnir or to support your proposal — I can arrange it. But I must say I’m concerned, Sir. Their decision may take time, and your proposal may be seen differently by others, both within and outside the realm.”

  “For now, they are under my protection. Any hostility toward them will be hostility toward me as well.”

  Maria inclined her head, taking my words seriously.

  “Understood, Sir. It shall be as you say. If there’s any sign of hostility against the Draegnir, I will take steps to ensure peace is maintained within the duchy’s borders.”

  She paused again before continuing:

  “I’ll also make sure your protection over them does not cause misunderstandings with other noble houses or allies. Everyone must understand that any move against the Draegnir will be seen as an attack on the duke.”

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  Then, with a subtle smile, she added:

  “If there’s anything more I can do to ensure everything stays under control, I’m at your disposal, Sir.”

  “Maria, come to my study. I want to report everything I saw and discussed. And I want you to write it down.”

  She nodded promptly and followed me in silence. Her steps were firm, precise, echoing softly down the corridor to the study. When we arrived, she positioned herself beside the desk, serious and focused. She picked up a quill and a scroll of parchment, ready to record every word.

  “Sir, I’m ready. You may begin whenever you wish.”

  “All right...” I began to speak.

  I recounted in detail everything that had happened since I left. The words flowed naturally. Maria wrote without interrupting, with precision and attention to every nuance of my account.

  I described the Draegnir tribe, their simple lifestyle in harmony with wildlife, their journeys in search of a peaceful home, and the encounter with Grishka, Kaela, and Ryn. I mentioned their difficulties with hunting, fishing, and the barren soil where they were camped.

  I spoke about my proposal to Grishka: offering the duchy’s protection, an agricultural partnership with seeds and fertilizer, and a trade agreement for hunting and fishing. I also included the resource percentage arrangements to help supply the more remote regions of the kingdom.

  Finally, I mentioned the blue crystal — given as a symbol of commitment and a promise of mutual aid — and the hope that, should they accept, the kingdom would be ready to receive them.

  Maria wrote with dedication. When I finished, she looked up.

  “Sir, is there anything else you’d like to add before concluding the report?”

  “Yes. Kaela was quite attractive,” I said, smiling lightly.

  She kept her eyes on the parchment for a moment, but a faint glint of amusement crossed her gaze as she looked at me.

  “Sir, I believe your appreciation for Kaela’s beauty is… understandable. However, we can keep the focus on the proposal and political decisions.”

  She smiled subtly, aware of the jest, but soon returned to a professional tone.

  “I believe the report is well documented. If any further detail arises, I’ll be ready to record it.”

  “That will be all for now.”

  She nodded and carefully rolled the parchment, sealing it with the Verdelume crest.

  “Very well, Lord Petrus. This report will be kept safely in the house’s archives and may be shared with counselors or allies, if needed.”

  She stepped away from the desk.

  “I’ll be nearby should you need anything else.”

  I left the study and walked through the quiet corridors of the mansion to the bathing chambers. The space was wide, with pale marble and warm water already prepared. Steam gently filled the air.

  Two maids entered quietly. They gave a slight bow and approached. One poured water over my shoulders; the other prepared scented oils. It was a moment of calm, and the tension of the journey began to fade.

  I let them bathe me. I ignored the admiring glances and the restrained lust hidden behind the discipline of their service.

  Their hands continued the work with respect. Their eyes, discreetly averted, revealed something deeper, involuntary. I remained serene, aware of my position.

  At the end, one of the maids offered me a soft linen towel while the other stepped away with the water basin.

  “Are you ready to get dressed, my lord?” one of them asked softly.

  “Thank you.” I dried myself and dressed with their help. “I’m going to sleep now. Call Maria.”

  The two left, and shortly after, Maria entered my room with her usual firm and attentive presence.

  “You called for me, Lord Petrus?”

  “Sleep with me tonight, Maria.”

  She was silent for a moment, eyes on mine, weighing what lay behind the request. Then she took a deep breath.

  “If that is your wish, Sir… then yes.”

  With measured steps, she entered the room and closed the door. She approached the bed, her gaze serene but charged with intensity.

  She changed calmly, wearing a light, translucent piece. The mature curves of her body were revealed with natural grace. There was no hesitation, only silent choice.

  She sat on the edge of the bed, and I approached. I kissed Maria — and that night was marked by more than desire: there was surrender, trust, and a rare moment of shared vulnerability.

  I woke to the golden morning light flooding the room. Maria still slept in my arms, her loose hair spread across the pillow. Her breathing was serene, and there was a faint smile on her lips.

  In that moment, the world felt distant — political concerns, the Draegnir, the duchy. There was only the warmth of a body beside me and the silence of morning.