It's been a month since I saw Mother use that trick. I'm still wondering what the heck she actually did.
"Hana, stay still."
I'm pretty sure we're going somewhere. I say this because Mother is dressing me up. She herself has put on a wine-colored Victorian gown with black trim, matching lace gloves, and a slightly low neckline that accentuates her full chest. Right in the center, she wears a golden emblem of a phoenix burning a snake with its wings spread wide.
What could it mean? It's the first time I've seen it.
"And there you go—you look lovely," she says.
Looking at my reflection, I see that I'm dressed in a white gown with a matching ribbon tied around my head.
Father enters the room. He's also dressed formally: a white shirt that contrasts perfectly with his black coat and pants. On his chest, he wears a medal with two crossed swords inside a large shield.
What's he doing here? Usually, he's never home in the mornings.
"Are you two ready?" he asks.
"I just finished getting her ready; let's go," Mother replies.
She holds me in her arms as we head down to the mansion's foyer, with Father accompanying us. When we arrive, we're greeted by my grandmother, my siblings, and the butler. The butler approaches us with a calm and elegant air.
"The carriage is ready to depart, my lady. I regret that I won't be able to accompany you this time, but the man awaiting you is entirely trustworthy."
"I understand. Thank you, Alfred."
Alfred? What a classic name for a butler…
It's the first time I've really looked at him up close. Usually, he's busy taking care of his duties.
He's younger than I thought; he looks about the same age as my parents. Plus, his short brown hair and green eyes make him quite handsome.
If it weren't for the suit, I'd think he was some nobleman. Honestly, the only "butler-like" thing about him is his name.
"Children, behave yourselves while I'm away."
"Yes, Mom!"
Wow, they all answered at once. Very well trained.
"Mother, do you think Hana will be alright?"
"Don't worry, dear, I'm sure everything will go wonderfully."
What does she mean by 'go wonderfully'? And where are they even taking me?
My grandmother steps closer and gently pats my head.
"I sense great potential in her. All will be well."
"Then, I have nothing to worry about," Mother replies with a comforting smile.
"Good luck, Hana!"
Why is everyone wishing me luck?! This is giving me a bad feeling, like some sort of…
My thoughts are interrupted by something that catches my eye: behind Alfred, a young girl dressed as a maid shyly hides.
Who is she? I've never seen her before, and I don't think she's family—no one here has white hair.
My parents step through the main door. Both the carriage and the gate display the same emblem that Mother wears on her chest.
Throughout the entryway, majestic fountains shaped like phoenixes stand like chess pieces. By the nearest fountain, a carriage awaits us, adorned with gold accents and pulled by two gigantic beasts, towering a few meters over the man driving them.
Who on earth pumped those horses full of steroids?!
"Don't be afraid, Hana; they're gentle," Mother says, holding me close and gently rocking me.
Apparently, she mistook my curiosity for fear.
Father helps Mother into the carriage, then climbs in himself, and we set off toward an unknown destination.