"You may go in now," the Attendant gestured to Shandela with a polite invitation.
Shandela pushed open the thick wooden door and stepped into the Lord's study.
This place contrasted starkly with Distant View Tower; the curtains were usually drawn, sparing any concern for the invasion of strong winds. The illumination within was provided entirely by whale oil lamps, their small, abundant flames not only brightened every corner of the room but were also devoid of any dazzling effect. To reduce the odor of the oil, a mixture of pine resin and moth orchids had been added to the lamp, filling the room with a perpetual fragrance of flowers and herbs.
It could be said that only the Lord of Magnificent Castle could afford such oil.
Shandela couldn't help but wrinkled her nose.
She disliked this scent—for the room, often sealed off, inevitably mixed with a musty smell. Rather than unnatural floral fragrances, she would prefer the briny, damp sea breeze, which at least made her feel free.
