We've been exploring the mansion for over 45 minutes now and still weren't done yet. Belinde was giving us a tour and showed us all of the secret passageways that connected the castle within the walls. They used to be used a lot in earlier times, for servants and in case of an invasion.
Both the antique armory and the massive library could only be accessed by one of the secret passageways, as they possessed valuable treasures. Either physically or in the written form of knowledge. The library made my eyes water in joy. So many books to read that no one else could ever dream of. What more could I wish for? And, although it was clear that only the library was of any interest to me, something in me kept itching towards the armory. Someday, when I am back, I will definitely come down here again.
Belinde also showed us how to recognize what floor and hallway we were in and where the emergency exits were located. She reminded us that even though we were free to choose any room we wanted, it would be best if we took one that had good connections. Just in case. It took a while for me to find the right one. When I did, I knew from the start that it was meant for me.
What made it different from all the others were the big windows that had an excellent view of the garden to the left of the castle with the pond and the nearby woods that would look absolutely stunning in spring and in fall. The window sills were wide enough to sit on with some cushions and the thin, peach-colored curtains gave the whole room a fresh and warm glow. I had my own bathroom directly connected to it, next to the wooden canopy bed that even had curtains.
The furniture reminded me of the Victorian style back on Earth.
There was a desk, a sofa, two wooden wardrobes and a dresser. One of the main reasons I chose it though, was the fact that one of the passageways was in the wardrobe. I felt like I was leaving for Narnia, only that this way leads to the kitchen. Which was also totally fine with me.
Kimba was also happy with my choice and already was making a fluffy nest for himself on top of the canopy bed with shredded toilet paper.
Unfortunately, our time was up soon. I laid all of my belongings into my new room. Even my headphones would stay behind this time. I didn't want to lose them and here I knew they were safe.
Belinde guided us back down to the main entrance. She handed us our lunches and more supplies that would last for more than a week. From dried mango strips and dry flowers to crackers and nuts. She wished us good luck on our journey and said that she would be awaiting our return.
"Have you ever been so far north?" I casually asked Belinde as we were waiting for Peter to come fetch me. She seemed delighted to answer. "Oh no. In fact, I haven't been north at all. But I know Peter has been there before."
"Oh? So where do you come from?" She gave me an embarrassed look.
"Miss, please don't feel obliged to act interested in me. You really don't have to." She looked away from me to the ground.
I was shocked. Did she really think I was just being polite?
"No, no, no! Not at all! I'm just genuinely interested. I would like to get to know you as a friend, not a servant." I laughed. "Trust me." I smiled at her. I knew my interest was genuine, but something dark in the back of my mind was whispering:
Good. Friends are less likely to betray you.
Shocked I would even think of something like that, I quickly shoved that thought aside.
Now even more embarrassed than before Belinde nervously smiled back. "Oh in that case... Well, my family is originally from Lotar but I was born and raised here in Whisteria."
"Oh, so where are your parents now? Do you have siblings at all?"
Dismayed she shook her head. "No, I don't think so. I actually grew up in an orphanage near the outer edge of the city. I don't know what happened to my parents, but it doesn't matter. I had my own family there. And a little sister too. Her name was Athea."
"Oh, I am so sorry." Oops. Wrong topic.
"No, really, it's fine. I've come to terms with it a long time ago." She smiled reassuringly.
"So where is Athea now? Is she still there...?"
"I assume so. She was still pretty young back then. But now she must be about five years old. Ready for adoption." Belinde's smile faltered.
"Will you go to see her again someday?" She sniffed and dabbed the corner of her eye.
"I'm not sure. I work and live here now. And I don't even know if she still is there. I just hope that she is okay."
At that moment Peter came riding in on his horse. "I guess this means goodbye," I said.
"Yeah." I looked at her. She was such a sweet girl. I could feel it. When she had gained back her composure she quickly turned to me and curtsied. Before she got up, she fleetly smirked at me. Then she was gone.
Aww. Nene is the best. Kimba snuggled the back of my neck.
"Yeah, yeah Kimba. I appreciate it."
I waved to Peter and he greeted me with the tip of his hat. I mounted the horse a tad more elegantly than I used to with Ferras and settled down in front of Peter. He told me to hold tight to the saddle knob in front. Before we left the manor though, I was told to put on my veil that was in my bag. I could see why it might be important to keep my identity hidden. It was still annoying though.
When I saw the carriage I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but an old wooden one with a small tent, transporting a flock of Ferlon with two donkeys pulling it in the front really wasn't on my list of possibilities. But hey, it's always nice to be surprised, right?
"So, here is your ride. You are a poor pilgrim hitchhiking to the northern temple of Lydia in Phillia. Your driver knows nothing about it. Now, enjoy your voyage." And with that, he just left me standing there.
So, do I get to ride in the front? Kimba sat on my shoulder squinting at the carriage.
"Feel free Kimba. Feel free."