Walking continuously and briskly with Lumiya for nearly half an hour, we finally emerged from the forest. Though my memories held fragments about castles, seeing one in person for the first time was still a marvel, leaving me astounded at the enormity of the castle complex.
Surrounded by mountains and forests, the complex sits in a U-shaped valley with a flat plain at its heart. The castle, backed by mountains, faces a river that leads to the natural Barmen Lake. Across the lake lies the picturesque city of Barmen, with a population in the hundreds of thousands.
Separated by the lake, there's a sharp contrast between modern vibrancy and ancient solemnity. Fortunately, a road encircling Barmen Lake connects both shores, weaving modernity into the castle. Modern conveniences like water, electricity, and internet are available, especially in the castle's auxiliary buildings.
Legend traces the castle's origin back over a thousand years to what was known as "Kerenburg," a fortress primarily for military use. It was destroyed in a war or disaster and later rebuilt on its ruins by the lords of Barmen, now known as Barmen Castle. This complex includes the main castle, surrounding manor houses, and defensive outer buildings, all encircled by a winding moat. The calm waters reflect the castle's majestic image, while three ancient bridges connect this historical witness to the outside world.
The main castle features the "Heavy Tower" in the east wing, the main building's west wing, and the south wing that spans between them, dating back to the 13th or 14th century. The 15th or 16th century added external structures like a large tower, walls, corner towers, stables, and barns. From the 17th to the 19th century, the fortress underwent several changes in ownership and reconstruction, evolving into a Baroque-style palace.
However, with the decline of its last owners, the Rebel family, the castle fell into disrepair and never regained its original splendor.
I chose the tower as my residence for convenience in hosting tenants, while Lumiya lives in a manor house near the main building. But this time, Lumiya didn't retreat to her room and instead excitedly followed me. I've always been puzzled by her constant state of excitement and joy.
Our conversations went something like this:
"Lumiya, are you familiar with the forest behind us? Any exciting spots for adventure live-streaming?" she inquired.
"I've only been here less than a year and haven't explored deep into the forest," I responded.
"Do you think there might be hidden ancient courtyards in the forest, with fountains that start flowing again under the moonlight, revealing secret entrances to underground chambers?" she wondered.
"Do you really think something like that exists?" I asked, amused.
"What about legendary waterfalls that sound like distant cries? Behind them are deep caves with rock walls smoothed by perpetual water drops, shimmering in the light," she mused.
"I don't think so," I answered.
"Maybe an ancient stone tower stands alone on a mountain, shrouded in mist, its top emitting mysterious light at night, beckoning to travelers?" her imagination took flight.
"No," I replied succinctly.
"What about at night, with ghostly lights flickering among the trees, leading adventurers to forest secrets?" she continued.
"That's an interesting idea, could be a Guangdu City urban legend for the paranormal forums online," I suggested.
"Or a hidden valley where echoes form melodies? When echoes turn into music, a glowing lake makes people disappear as they enter?" she pondered.
Finally, I had to ask, "Where do all these bizarre ideas of yours come from?"
"From my dreams these past few days," Lumiya proudly replied.
"You really are something," I said, hand on forehead.
"Right? I told you I am," she replied, nodding her head happily.
As they conversed, Sky and his companion reached his room atop the city walls. It was then that Sky realized Lumiya had followed him and asked, "What brings you here with me?" With a bewildered look in her big, innocent eyes, Lumiya responded, "I'm not really sure."
Sky, speechless and slightly bemused, was about to add more when his phone suddenly rang. He looked at the caller ID – an unknown number – and answered. The call was from a young woman, Liliana Nocturne. "Hello, is this the rental service for Barmen Castle?" Her voice was melodious, reminiscent of a gentle stream in the mountains, clear and pleasing. Every word was pronounced distinctly, her tone perfectly balanced, neither too high nor too low, leaving a memorable impression.
Sky, irresistibly drawn to her enchanting voice, paused briefly before replying, "Yes, that's correct. Are you interested in renting? Have you seen our listings online? If you're uncertain, we could arrange a viewing." Liliana replied softly, "No need for a viewing. I'm interested in your ready-to-move-in, hotel-style rooms. Please reserve the largest one for me. I'd like to move in tonight if possible."
"How long will you be staying?" Sky inquired. "Let's start with a week," Liliana answered, then added, "I have a request, though. I'm in a bit of a rush and didn't bring any personal items. Could you arrange a care package for me? I'll likely arrive late tonight, probably after the stores have closed."
"Not a problem at all. We provide such amenities. Should you arrive late, feel free to call this number. I'm always at your service," Sky assured her earnestly.
He recalled his mission from the system: secure at least three tenants in three days and devise a long-term strategy for the castle to overcome its financial troubles. Securing Lumiya and now Liliana meant he was just one tenant short. The strategy for the castle's future, he'd figure out later. His current priority was to find or awaken Arachne.
Sky focused inwardly, his gaze drifting through the window to the main building, feeling a soulful pull in that direction. "It seems I need to explore there," Sky muttered to himself. His fragmented memories told him he never lived in the main building due to fears of its collapse, only briefly inspecting its interior once. His knowledge of the inside was minimal.
Suddenly, Lumiya's face appeared before him, "Landlord, landlord, where are you planning to explore? The main building of the castle? I want to come too!" After a moment's thought, Sky decided it wouldn't be a bad idea to bring her along. If they encountered any spirits or ghosts, an extra pair of hands would be helpful. He remembered her extraordinary strength could come in handy in a physical confrontation.
Sky had already ascertained that his body in this world was merely human, albeit a bit stronger than average, probably due to player attributes from the Aethercross World. But this strength was still within normal human limits, without the superhuman abilities of genetically enhanced warriors or awakeners.
Sky gazed at the post-noon sun, musing that any ghosts within the castle would likely be less active at this hour. "Alright, if you're not scared, come with me and we'll check out the castle." "Yay!" Lumiya exclaimed joyfully, then suddenly looked dejected, "But first, can we eat? I'm hungry. I missed lunch while searching for you in the forest."
"We'll have lunch first then," Sky agreed, feeling his own hunger. While contemplating what to make for lunch, he noticed Lumiya staring at him. "Why are you looking at me like that?" he asked. Lumiya tilted her head, "Waiting for lunch."
Sky, surprised, asked, "You don't really expect me to cook lunch for you, do you?" Lumiya nodded eagerly, as if it was the most natural thing in the world. "Yes, of course."
Despite his initial surprise, Sky was well-equipped for the task. Having learned to cook after his parents' divorce and later taking care of his food-loving cousin Sophie, his culinary skills were more than adequate. He rummaged through the kitchen and began cooking with practiced ease. He prepared a seafood mix from the freezer, marinating it in salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to enhance the flavors.
He cooked spaghetti to al dente perfection in a large pot of salted water. In a skillet, he sautéed garlic and onions in olive oil, then simmered a rich tomato sauce with herbs, bringing it to a thick consistency. In another pan, he quickly fried the seasoned seafood, deglazing with white wine to extract the savory juices. Combining the seafood and pasta with the sauce, he gently tossed them together, ensuring each strand was coated in the flavorful mix.
He plated the seafood spaghetti, garnishing it with fresh parsley, chili flakes, and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The dish was a symphony of colors and aromas, captivating Lumiya, who watched with eager eyes, her anticipation evident.
Soon, they sat down to a hearty meal of seafood spaghetti, the shrimp, clams, and squid complementing the pasta's silky texture. The rich tomato sauce, infused with the sweetness and tanginess of the tomatoes, perfectly married the seafood's freshness, each bite a celebration of Mediterranean flavors.
Lumiya dove into her meal with gusto, nearly burying her face in her plate.