Months had passed, and the once-dwindling Astoria estate was now alive with activity and prosperity. The sound of laughter and the hustle of new servants filled the halls, while the scent of fresh pastries wafted through the air from the recently opened second bakery. Thalia sat by the window in her study, the morning light casting a warm glow over her silver hair as she scanned the day's newspaper. The headline made her smile: "The Mysterious Black-Hooded Hero: Savior of Villages, Slayer of Beasts."
She leaned back, eyes drifting to the window. The estate grounds had never looked so vibrant, with lush gardens and bustling workers. It was hard to believe that only a month ago , Astoria had been on the brink of collapse. The transformation was nothing short of miraculous, but Thalia knew it hadn't come without effort and determination.
A soft knock at the door interrupted her thoughts. "Come in," she called, folding the paper and placing it on her desk.
Lady Elira entered, her expression as poised as ever but with an uncharacteristic glint of excitement in her eyes. Her dark hair was neatly pinned, and she wore a dress that spoke of elegance with subtle hints of the Astoria family's signature flame patterns.
"Thalia," Elira began, stepping closer. "I've been thinking, and after careful consideration, I believe it's time for the next step."
Thalia's brow furrowed, curiosity piqued. "What do you mean, Lady Elira?"
Elira's gaze softened, a rare tenderness showing. "It's time for you to take your rightful place as the head of the Astoria family. You have proven beyond doubt that you possess the vision and strength needed to lead us."
Thalia's eyes widened in shock. "Me? The head of the family? But... I'm only twenty-one."
Elira nodded. "Yes, you are young, but you've achieved what many couldn't in a lifetime. You saved this family from ruin, revitalized our businesses, and brought a sense of hope we hadn't felt in years. The world is watching, Thalia, and they deserve to know that it's you who stands at the helm."
The gravity of Elira's words settled in Thalia's chest. For a moment, the room was silent as she absorbed the enormity of the decision. She felt a rush of emotions—pride, disbelief, and a tinge of fear—but above all, a fierce resolve.
"I'll do it," she said, her voice steady. "I'll lead the family."
Elira's smile was subtle, but the relief in her eyes was unmistakable. "Good. We'll make the announcement soon. Prepare yourself; this will be big news."
---
The next day, word spread like wildfire. "Astoria's Prodigy: The Youngest Head in History!" The streets buzzed with talk of Thalia Astoria. Rumors swirled about who she was and what she looked like. Some spoke of her intellect and business acumen, while others whispered about the mysterious figure in black who had saved villages and killed beasts with a power unseen before. Could there be a connection?
Thalia stayed hidden, choosing not to make public appearances despite the surge of attention. The estate remained her sanctuary, where she could observe the changes from a distance. Alan, the talented new butler, kept her informed of the public's reactions and the family's affairs.
"It's quite the stir," Alan said one afternoon, a hint of amusement in his voice. "Everyone wants a glimpse of the new head of the Astoria family."
Thalia smiled, looking out the window at the estate. She watched as the newly planted flowers swayed in the breeze, their vibrant colors a symbol of renewal. "Let them wonder," she said. "The less they know, the more powerful the mystery."
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the sky in hues of orange and pink, Thalia's mind raced with the possibilities that lay ahead. She was no longer just the illegitimate daughter of a forgotten family; she was Thalia Astoria, head of the house, and the future was hers to shape.