We returned to the sitting room, where Mona cradled me tenderly in her arms, seated upon an ornate chair. Behind me stood Fazio, a solemn figure reminiscent of Selahe, who mirrored the poised presence of the Duke and Duchess. It felt surreal to suddenly find myself surrounded by attendants, a reminder of the privileges and responsibilities that came with noble lineage, despite my age—displayed on my status screen as zero, for foob's sake!
The Duke's countenance broadened into a satisfied smile, betraying his pleasure that events had unfolded according to his design. "Now, allow me to illuminate the purpose of this villa. It was here that my wife, after delivering Anna, our beloved daughter, remained for two seasons to ensure her safety and nurture her. The life of a noble is fraught with dangers, with every move scrutinized for political advantage by those around us," he intoned, casting a knowing glance at Mona and Fazio, who absorbed his words with a mix of surprise and realization.
The Duchess, her voice carrying a weight of hidden sorrows, interjected softly, "This is a secret known to few: I was with child before Anna." Gasps of astonishment escaped Mona and Fazio, their eyes widening in disbelief. Meanwhile, lacking the context to react, I feigned interest by playfully tugging at Mona's blouse.
The Duke nodded solemnly, his gaze distant as he recounted a painful memory, "Prior to Anna's birth, my wife survived an assassination attempt. Though she emerged physically unscathed, our unborn child did not share her fortune." He paused, allowing the gravity of his words to settle upon his audience, Mona and Fazio, who absorbed the tragic revelation with solemn understanding.
Duchess Calo's voice softened as she explained, "After that loss, I was utterly distraught. It took me a long time to gather myself again. When I discovered I was pregnant once more, we knew we had to proceed with utmost caution. Hence, this villa—" She gestured gracefully towards the sprawling manor.
Duke Calo interjected, his tone serious yet protective, "I commissioned the construction of this manor under the supervision of soul-bound overseers. The regional governor, bound to me, keeps watch over the harbor with utmost vigilance. We've also fortified the estate with a potent barrier—all to safeguard our child." The surge of mana I had sensed upon arrival suddenly made sense.
Smiling warmly, the Duchess continued, "We hadn't planned on another child, so this villa lay dormant. But now that Damiano is here," Her smile widened affectionately, revealing her genuine fondness beneath her regal facade, "we intend to make full use of it. He will grow up here until he's ready for the academy, just like Anna did. The staff here are completely devoted."
Mona and Fazio were beginning to grasp the gravity of their roles in protecting me. It was clear the ducal couple spared no expense in ensuring my safety. They proceeded to outline the staff that would remain: a cook, Mona and Fazio, a dedicated housekeeper, and Selahe, who would oversee my protection with a select group of guards. Selahe would also mentor Fazio, preparing him for his future role as my head butler. I couldn't shake the feeling that Selahe's duties went far beyond those of a typical servant.
Standing up, Duke Calo announced, "We must return to Calo. There's much to unravel about those who sought to harm young Damiano. Rest assured, we'll deal with them decisively—"
The Duchess interrupted with a gentle smile, "Watch your language, dear."
He amended, "Of course. Regardless, we have matters to attend to." With affectionate gestures of tickling, kisses, and hugs, the ducal couple bid farewell, reluctant to leave my side.
Selahe interjected firmly, "My lordships, you must depart. The duchy doesn't run itself." Reluctantly, they bid farewell and departed in the plain carriage we had arrived in. We stood in front of the villa in silence long after the carriage had vanished into the forest.
Turning to Selahe, Mona inquired, "What exactly do you do for their lordships?" Her query carried the weight of concern for her son's future role.
Selahe smirked knowingly and replied, "Let's return inside and discuss my duties." We entered the villa, bypassing the sitting room and ascending the stairs that led back to the secluded basement. The stool had been removed, leaving the space eerily vacant, reminiscent of the basement where I had been summoned on my first night.
Positioning Mona strategically, Selahe instructed, "Could you stand there, Mona." She complied, her curiosity piqued. Selahe signaled to Fazio, positioning him opposite himself at the room's center. With a measured tone, Selahe began to explain, "Mona, I am soul-bound to Duke Calo. I was bound at the age of two in this very room. Officially, as head butler or maid, I oversee the household's management to ensure smooth operation. Additionally, I serve as personal attendant during travels. However, what remains undisclosed to most is our role as the nucleus of the noble's espionage network and as their personal protectors. Many of the closest servants to nobles share similar dual roles—whether spy, assassin, guardian, mage, or otherwise." He paused, allowing his words to sink in.
Understanding dawned on Mona, her expression conflicted as she exclaimed, "You intend to bestow this high position upon my son?!" She wrestled with the implications, adding, "So when his lordship proclaimed my son perfect for the role despite lacking noble service experience—"
Selahe interjected smoothly, "Because he's already received preliminary training. Normally, the head butler is groomed from a tender age. Given the circumstances, we opted for someone with a head start. Fazio, your education begins now. Please, attack me." Fazio clenched both fists and charged at Selahe, whose response was a blur of motion, leaving Fazio sprawled on the ground, bewildered. Selahe chided him, "If you aspire to protect the young master, you must exceed this."
Undeterred, Fazio rose and attempted again, this time with a kick, only to be swiftly disarmed once more. Selahe taunted, "Duke Calo returns at summer's onset to introduce the young master to young mistress Anna. When that moment arrives, will you demonstrate to the Duke your worthiness to stand by his side?"
Fazio stood resolute and affirmed, "Yes, sir."
Acknowledging his resolve, Selahe directed Mona, "You should leave us to this."