A month had passed since the scandalous incident, and the repercussions were felt throughout the estate. The servants involved in spreading the false rumors had been swiftly dismissed, facing the consequences of their actions without any mercy.
Despite protests from some disgruntled individuals, Damian's unwavering resolve and the manifestation of his formidable demonic energy silenced all objections. The servants now understood the extent of his power and the consequences of crossing him.
Damian's demonic energy, although originating from the murim world, held a peculiar resemblance to mana as perceived by the people of his own realm.
On a bright and sunny day, Damian sat at his desk, engrossed in his work as usual. Seraphine, now a trusted and capable assistant, stood by his side, providing invaluable support in various tasks. Her competence extended from managing calculations and ledgers to brewing tea, including Damian's favorite milk tea.
As Seraphine carefully prepared the milk tea, her movements were precise and graceful. Damian couldn't help but notice the warmth radiating from her presence. It was a feeling he hadn't experienced before—an indescribable connection that made his heart flutter.
The aroma of the freshly brewed tea filled the room, creating an atmosphere of tranquility. Damian momentarily paused his work, glancing up to observe Seraphine's focused expression. Her dedication and attention to detail never ceased to amaze him.
"Thank you, Seraphine," Damian said, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. "You've become an invaluable presence in my life and in the management of this estate."
Seraphine's cheeks flushed with a hint of pink, and she offered him a warm smile. "It is my pleasure to assist you, young master. I'm honored to be by your side."
Seraphine stood before Damian, a cup of tea in her hands, carefully prepared to suit his tastes. As he took a sip, a sense of tranquility washed over him, the comforting warmth of the tea permeating his being. It was a momentary respite from the responsibilities and burdens he carried as the lord of the territory.
"By the way, Seraphine, would you care to accompany me on a visit to the town?" Damian offered, his voice smooth and refined as he held out his tea cup.
Seraphine's curiosity piqued at the mention of "Riverdale," a large, bustling town in this territory that the lord often visited to check on the well-being of his people.
"Riverdale? Young master wishes for me to accompany you there?" she inquired, her tone polite but with a note of excitement in her voice.
"Yes, people there have submitted several petitions regarding issues with plague and food shortages. Even with the money at our disposal, it seems we're facing a challenge in addressing this problem," Damian replied, his expression being quite serious at the mention of the issues the townspeople were facing.
However, Damian now looked into Seraphine again. His gaze softened as he spoke, a glimmer of admiration in his eyes. "I believe it would be wise to have you accompany me on this visit. Your brilliant mind has proven invaluable, and I am certain you can find solutions to the problems."
Seraphine responded with a humble nod, her dedication evident in her every word. She understood the weight of her role, both as a servant and as someone capable of making a difference in the lives of the people they governed.
Damian's smile grew as he observed Seraphine's earnestness. He recognized the profound impact she had on his life, bringing warmth, compassion, and a sense of purpose he had never experienced before. Amidst the ruthlessness and indifference that characterized much of his interactions with others, Seraphine and Marcus stood as beacons of light, individuals with whom he could share his true emotions.
In the depths of his original story, Damian had never known such feelings—love, care, and warmth had been foreign concepts to him. His existence had been defined by anger and frustration, his heart shielded from the world. But now, with Seraphine by his side, he began to glimpse the possibilities of a different kind of life—one filled with genuine connection and genuine emotions.
"We will depart in a few days; however, before that," Damian said, rising from his chair and slowly making his way toward Seraphine.
"Make sure you take some time to rest and not overwork yourself. I want you to be physically prepared for the journey," he advised, his tone gentle and caring. As he spoke, his hand reached out, gently brushing against Seraphine's brown hair with a tender affection.
A blush crept up Seraphine's cheeks, her heart skipping a beat at the intimate gesture. Her thoughts momentarily scattered when she noticed a mischievous message appearing in front of her, unmistakably sent by Alice.
[(≖ ͜ʖ≖)]
"Alice…. just shut up…." Seraphine silently reprimanded her mischievous companion, her embarrassment evident in her internal plea. She tried to regain her composure, hoping that Damian hadn't noticed her flustered state.
Seraphine, feeling a mixture of embarrassment and appreciation, nodded at Damian's words. "Thank you, young master. I will make sure to rest and prepare myself for the journey ahead. Your care means a lot to me."
Damian smiled warmly, his eyes reflecting a genuine fondness for Seraphine. "I only want the best for you, Seraphine. Your dedication and hard work have been invaluable to me. It's important that you take care of yourself as well."
As their eyes met, a silent understanding passed between them. Soon they will be ready to depart and visit Riverdale to help the people that suffer from various issues.