Kaiden approached the estate with cautious steps, his senses alert for any sign of danger. The mansion loomed ahead like something out of a dream—a sprawling structure wrapped in the elegance of ivory stone and adorned with flowering rose vines. The air was sweet, carrying the faint perfume of blooming petals, and the grounds were meticulously maintained, with fountains and neatly trimmed hedges lining the path.
If Kaiden hadn't known better, he might've thought he was entering the home of a saint. The scent of roses would have been soothing, the grandeur of the estate awe-inspiring. But he knew who lived here. Kasir. The manipulative puppeteer among the seven low nobles.
Everything here is a lie, Kaiden thought bitterly. Just like him.
He tightened his fists as he walked past the gate, flanked by two stoic guards who watched him like hawks. He could feel their silent judgment, their disdain for someone like him—a slave. Still, Kaiden kept his head high. He wasn't here to grovel or beg.
Inside, the mansion was even more lavish. The polished floors reflected the glow of crystal chandeliers, and paintings of serene landscapes adorned the walls. Servants moved gracefully, their expressions blank but efficient as they carried out their duties. Kaiden took it all in, his gaze sharp, though his body remained relaxed. He couldn't afford to show weakness here.
When Kaiden reached the grand hall, Kasir was already waiting for him, seated on a throne-like chair at the end of a long table. The man was as polished as his estate, dressed in an embroidered tunic of deep crimson with gold accents. His rose tattoo was partially visible on the side of his neck, a constant reminder of his dominion.
Kasir greeted Kaiden with a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. "Kaiden, my boy. I've been expecting you."
Kaiden stopped a few steps away, his expression neutral. "I didn't come here to play games."
Kasir chuckled softly, gesturing to a chair opposite him. "No games, I assure you. Please, sit."
Kaiden hesitated but eventually complied, his movements deliberate. The moment he sat, Kasir leaned forward, resting his chin on his clasped hands.
"You're a bold one, coming here after everything. But I suppose that's what I like about you," Kasir said smoothly. "Direct. Unyielding. A rare trait these days."
Kaiden didn't flinch under Kasir's gaze. "Enough with the flattery. Let's talk about Elira."
Kasir's smile widened, though his eyes betrayed nothing. "Straight to the point. Fine. You want her released, yes? And her inn rebuilt, I assume?"
Kaiden nodded.
Kasir tapped a finger against his cheek, as if in deep thought. "I can do that. But as I'm sure you understand, everything has a price."
Kaiden's jaw tightened. "What do you want?"
Kasir leaned back in his chair, his expression softening, though there was an unmistakable edge to his tone. "Your allegiance. Join me, Kaiden. You've already proven yourself capable, and with proper guidance, you could achieve far more than you ever could with Lady Seris."
Kaiden's mind raced, weighing his options. He couldn't outright refuse—not here, not now. Kasir wasn't someone to be underestimated. If Seris, the weakest of the nobles, was still one of the strongest people Kaiden had ever encountered, what kind of power did Kasir wield?
"I'm her slave," Kaiden said carefully. "It's not that simple."
Kasir's brow arched slightly, his smile taking on a knowing edge. "A slave with no mark? How curious."
Kaiden's blood ran cold at the comment, though he kept his face impassive.
Kasir rose from his seat, his movements deliberate as he walked around the table to stand behind Kaiden. "You see, Kaiden, I'm not unreasonable. I'll release Elira, rebuild her inn, and ensure she's left in peace. In return, you work for me."
Kaiden didn't move as Kasir placed a hand on his shoulder, though his muscles tensed.
"And just to ensure there are no misunderstandings…" Kasir reached into his pocket and pulled out a small needle-like device. Before Kaiden could react, he felt a sharp sting at the side of his neck.
"What the—" Kaiden hissed, his hand flying to the spot.
Kasir stepped back, gesturing for a mirror to be brought forward. When Kaiden looked, his heart sank. A rose tattoo, identical to Kasir's, was now etched into his skin.
"It's a tracker," Kasir explained, his tone casual. "And a deterrent. Disobedience comes with… consequences."
Kaiden's mind flashed back to the assassin who had exploded in front of him. His chest tightened, though he forced himself to stay composed.
Kasir continued, his voice dropping to a dangerous softness. "And before you think of running to the authorities, let me remind you—who do you think they'd believe? A noble, or a slave?"
Kaiden stared at Kasir, his fists clenched at his sides. For a moment, the room was silent, the weight of Kasir's words sinking in.
Finally, Kaiden extended his hand, his expression unreadable. Kasir grasped it firmly, his smile triumphant.
"Good," Kasir said, his tone dripping with satisfaction. "Welcome to my world, Kaiden."