As Filia stepped out of Luciano's office, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. The individuals escorting her stood at attention, saluting with utmost respect.
"Madam, the vehicle is prepared. Your belongings from the dormitory and the office have also been arranged for your convenience. You may return home at any time."
The speaker was David, Luciano's administrative aide, a human male witch whose role resembled that of a secretary. Such reverence was entirely new to Filia, who felt compelled to maintain her composure under the sudden spotlight.
"Ah, thank you for your hard work."
Her natural beauty radiated even more when she offered a soft smile, akin to a breath of spring air. As she made her way out of the government building, her persona of grace and poise began to take shape.
Whether familiar with her or not, those witnessing the scene understood that it was only fitting for the commander to choose her as his spouse, especially considering Luciano had once stated in an interview that he favored gentle and obedient women.
Before long, the flying vehicle descended into a countryside estate. This grand residence, Luciano's ancestral home, bore a distinctly medieval style, adorned with sculptures, fountains, and meticulously trimmed hedges.
However, upon entering the house, the decor transitioned into a modern aesthetic, equipped with a slew of electronic devices. To Filia's surprise, there were only six staff members in total, including security, servants, and a chef.
She had expected the commander of the Star Alliance's air force to have a small army of attendants at his beck and call.
"Madam, would you care for a refreshment? According to your preferences, we have prepared a blood bank for you," David said, leading her to a room in the basement.
As the door opened, Filia's eyes sparkled with delight. The room had been transformed into a cold storage facility housing bags of plasma. She licked her lips, but managed to resist; after all, she had recently become the commander's wife and preferred not to appear excessively bloodthirsty.
"Thank you, aide. I'm not hungry at the moment, and I prefer human food."
"Ah, splendid! The commander also enjoys human cuisine and rarely consumes raw meat," David replied as he escorted Filia to the estate's rear garden.
In contrast to the front courtyard, the rear garden seemed somewhat out of place. Numerous flowers were planted, yet they appeared withered, giving off an air of neglect.
"Why is it like this?" Filia inquired.
"Madam, the commander has a passion for gardening; however, his busy schedule leaves him little time for upkeep. He prefers to tend to his plants without interference, resulting in this unfortunate state."
"Oh!" Filia nodded in disbelief.
"Please, have a seat. Several documents require your signature," David said, presenting a stack of papers on a small tea table in the garden.
"These pertain to the commander's assets. He has instructed that you manage these assets henceforth. Once you sign, you will have authority over every income and deposit under his name."
Initially, Filia thought Luciano had merely been speaking casually, but now, fresh from the wedding, he was entrusting her with financial control. Did he truly have no fear of her absconding with his wealth?
Yet, considering the vastness of his dominion, where could she possibly flee?
"Very well."
Concealing her surprise, Filia took the pen and signed the documents in quick succession.
"All set, then. I shall not intrude further on your rest," David said as he began to take his leave, only to pause and return to Filia's side after a moment's thought.
"Madam, there is something I feel compelled to clarify." His demeanor shifted, appearing somewhat uneasy, as if his forthcoming words weighed heavily upon him.
Filia quickly stood, offering him a reassuring smile. "Please, go on."
"The mating period for werewolves may not be entirely clear to you. Some years ago, the commander entered his mating age; however, at that time, he had just assumed control of the air force and was extremely occupied. Consequently, he utilized inhibitors to navigate that phase.
Now, however, those inhibitors are set to expire, and the commander may erupt into a transformation at any moment. During this period, his temperament will drastically change; he will become irritable and rough. I urge you to bear with him during this time."
Though David's words were indirect, Filia understood the implications. She chuckled awkwardly and nodded, trying to mask her anxiety. "Um, yes, understood."
"Additionally, please prepare yourself: during the mating period, after each union, the commander will undergo his transformation."
Filia was rendered speechless.
"Rest assured, this transformation does not compromise his rationality; it is simply a physiological response. Once the mating period concludes, it will cease."
"Right, I comprehend."
Overwhelmed by the information, Filia could only wipe the sweat from her brow and feebly smile.
In essence, during this month, each encounter would leave her with a volatile partner—one who would revert to his wolf form post-act. The thought of awakening beside a creature cloaked in fur was almost too much to fathom.
Heavens help her! No wonder he shunned marriages with humans; if the timing were to go awry...
The implications left her anxious mind a whirlpool of worry.
After spending some time in the garden to process David's words, Filia eventually regained her composure and glanced at the forlorn garden once more. Unable to resist, she found herself moving her fingers.
As a sorceress, she wielded control over the elemental forces of this world—water, soil, air; she could conjure elemental monsters for battle if she wished. However, at present, her focus is limited to aerating the soil, watering the plants, and summoning winds to clear the fallen leaves.
After a day of diligent work, every withered branch and leaf had been trimmed away, reinvigorating the garden with life.
Feeling fatigued, Filia downed a large bag of plasma, took a refreshing shower, and returned to Luciano's bedroom, sinking into the lavish bed and promptly falling asleep. Despite being half-vampire, many of her habits aligned with that of vampires—bloodthirsty and prone to slumber.
By ten o'clock that evening, the commander's private vehicle arrived at the estate. Upon returning home, the first thing Luciano did was visit his beloved garden, only to be met with a delightful surprise.
The once decaying and rancid air had vanished, replaced by a vibrant and refreshing vitality.
"Did the madam tend to this?" Luciano inquired, his tone inscrutable, as he removed his gloves and caressed the petals of a still-budding red rose.