As the carriage moved along the path lined with tall trees and dense vegetation, the escort maintained its formation with impeccable precision. The guards mounted on Iron Horses guided the vehicle at a steady pace, following protocol without haste or hesitation.
There was no tension or restlessness in their movements—only discipline and professionalism. Their gazes scanned the surroundings methodically, alert to any eventuality, but without showing concern.
The group continued their journey in silence, immersed in naturalness and comfort. Abigail and Inessa maintained calm and disinterested expressions, as if the landscape around them had no relevance to them.
Aglaya and Hendrina, on the other hand, hid their curiosity well; their gazes lingered for moments on the details of the environment, although they did not seem impressed enough to comment.
As the carriage continued at a controlled pace, Edgar was the only one truly attentive to the scenery around them. His eyes scanned every mansion, every detail of the buildings, trying to comprehend the nuances of this noble area. But as grand as the residences in the district were, it was what rose beyond them that truly captured his attention.
"Truly worthy of a Great Lady… I think." Edgar murmured, awed and respectful, but with a hint of uncertainty. He had no basis for comparison other than the Crimmont Palace, which, though imposing, seemed merely a quarter of the size of the colossal Drakhan Palace.
At the northern edge of the city, the Drakhan Palace rose above the plateau like a natural fortress. Its vaulted domes reflected the sun like polished metal, standing out against the landscape. Unlike the noble residential area, it was not protected by walls—it did not need them. The plateau itself was its defense, a secluded territory with controlled access.
The only road leading to it wound its way up the hillside, following a winding path until it reached the monumental entrance. The colossal, ornately decorated gate was guarded by relentless sentries, whose presence alone was enough to discourage any intruder.
Even from the outside, one could glimpse the exuberance of the inner domain. Garden terraces spread across the grounds, where artificial waterfalls cascaded down in steps, adorned with exotic and vibrant flora.
Extensive gardens surrounded the main structure, filled with crystal-clear fountains and meticulously sculpted statues. Densely canopied trees created an almost ethereal scene, their leaves dancing in the rhythm of the wind.
The palace was not just a residence—it was a self-sufficient complex. Structures dedicated to leisure, work, sport, and rest were scattered throughout the vast territory, connected by labyrinthine paths of carefully shaped vegetation.
But what held their attention most was the maze at the back of the palace—tall walls of dense foliage, so dense and vibrant that they seemed enchanted, stretching across a colossal area, mesmerizing anyone who dared to gaze at them for too long. The true scope of the palace's territory was a mystery.
The entire plateau belonged to its jurisdiction, its boundaries dissolving into gardens, artificial forests, and hidden pathways. A presence that dominated the city below, not only in size but in significance.
The carriage moved through the streets of the highest part of Avaris' noble district, an area meticulously planned to house the mansions reserved only for Dragon Ladies and Great Ladies. Unlike the natural hills that provided panoramic views of the city, this land had been artificially leveled, creating an exclusive landscape isolated from the rest of Avaris.
However, their route took them to a more secluded block, where empty lots seemed to be reserved for future residences. There was an air of newness there, as if that part of the city was still slowly taking shape, waiting for new acquisitions.
It was then that the carriage slowed down and stopped in front of an imposing red mansion, its façade marked by bold and defiant lines, as if its very architecture were a declaration of strength and ambition.
"Are we here?" Edgar broke the silence, his curiosity evident in the attentive gaze that roamed the residence.
"Yes." Inessa replied, her tone firm but not ostentatious. "This is the Crimmont Mansion in Avaris. Nothing compared to the Palace in Nenvia, but it meets the basic needs."
The Crimmont Mansion stands out for its strong and bold presence. Its façade was dominated by an intense red tone, with darkened metallic details that made it shine with imposingness.
The main entrance was located under a large architectural cantilever, a 4-meter-high slab that projected almost five meters, supported only by invisible supports, creating a sense of boldness and stability.
The design was simple yet imposing, with straight lines and narrow windows that rose to the top of the structure on the second floor, allowing light to enter the mansion's balconies without compromising privacy. The sturdy front door was made of dark wood with metallic details, and the Crimmont family crest discreetly marked the entrance.
Around it, the grounds were planned in a practical manner, with straight walkways, small gardens, and a path of bioluminescent stones that led from the entrance to the grounds to the front of the house. In the back, a small court could be used for training and recreation, reinforcing the functional and strategic purpose of the mansion.
"It's almost 5:30, Inessa." Abigail checked her watch, quickly calculating the remaining time. "We'd better get ready. We still have a few points to settle before the first meeting."
With those words, she stood and exited the carriage, her posture firm and resolute. The others followed her in a movement one at a time. First Inessa, then Edgar, followed by Aglaya and Hendrina.
"Did you change the color of your residence, Abigail?" Inessa asked, her eyes scanning the subtlety of the changes.
Outside the carriage and observing the landscape, something caught Inessa's attention. Her gaze shifted to the neighboring mansion, a building that contrasted sharply with the Crimmont Mansion.
The Lumivelo Mansion exuded lightness and serenity. Its façade, in soft tones of beige and white, was adorned with carved wood details, which gave a touch of rustic sophistication.
The main entrance was marked by a dark wooden portal with delicate arabesques, and above, a balcony with carved balusters stretched out, softening the imposing architecture.
Hanging gardens adorned the mansion, with ceramic pots full of flowers and small trees that broke the rigidity of the columns and gave an air of freshness to the environment. Stone paths led to delicate fountains, whose crystal-clear waters reflected the soft light, completing the atmosphere of peace and nobility.
Abigail smiled, a pleased gleam crossing her eyes. "Actually, I had the colors of yours retouched and mine changed a bit... They were a bit worn when I came by last month." Inessa blinked in surprise.
"I see. I appreciate that..." She paused for a moment before continuing, her tone carrying a hint of concern. "But I hope you're not overextending yourself, Abigail. You don't need to take on so many responsibilities when you can count on me to help."
Abigail sighed, but her smile remained. "We've talked about this, Inessa." Her tone was patient but firm. "You take care of the research and development and technological advancements of the Farms and Greenhouses. I'll take care of the paperwork and other 'minor matters.'"
The way she said it made it clear that she would not take any argument. And before Inessa could insist, Abigail turned to Aglaya and Hendrina, cutting off any further arguments.
"Aglaya, Hendrina, take the luggage inside. Mine too, since it would be inconvenient to separate our things between the two mansions." Her order was direct, with no room for hesitation.
"Yes, Lady." The two responded in unison, with straight postures and evident discipline, but they remained there for a moment, without acting immediately.
Abigail was already turning around and starting to manipulate aura in her hands when she stopped abruptly, as if something had occurred to her at the last minute.
"Oh, I almost forgot." She looked over her shoulder, her tone now carrying a slightly provocative tone. "Take care of the brat and prepare him for a gala ceremony. Inessa and I have matters to discuss with an important Neighbor and we will return around 8:00 p.m. to pick him up. Understood?"
"Yes, Lady."
The silence was broken by an indignant voice.
"And I have no say here?!" Edgar protested, frowning as he realized he was being deliberately ignored and left behind, even though he had been right next to them the whole time.
Abigail stopped, slowly turned to him, and smiled—a smile that was anything but innocent.
"No." Her answer was short, direct, and unquestionable.
Before Edgar could respond, Abigail had already turned around and, together with Inessa, were walking down the sidewalk, while an aura barrier subtly rose around them, hiding the conversation that followed.
With only Edgar, Aglaya, and Hendrina left, the task of organizing the luggage at Inessa's residence fell to them. The coachman was paid and escorted back by the sentries, disappearing as night began to fall over Avaris.
With everything organized, Aglaya and Hendrina then busied themselves preparing Edgar for the events of that night.
Bathing was the first step. They helped him bathe, having practiced hundreds of times, using soap and special, luxurious products. The water warmed his skin as they cleaned every corner of his small body with care, exchanging glances and discreet laughter.
Neither of them made any bold moves while he looked so vulnerable, but Hendrina didn't hold back her words to tease Edgar in the middle of the bath. To which he responded with the naturalness that was achieved by going through the same situation every day.