Leone and Ashan turned to look at Elowyn. She stood frozen in place, her expression uneasy, a trace of fear in her eyes.
Boris narrowed his gaze.
"Is she also…?"
"No, Father," Leone said, shaking his head. "She's not my daughter. She came here recently and has been living with us. I'll explain everything later."
Boris studied Leone for a moment, then gave a small, knowing smile.
"Hmm… I see. Then let's talk about it later. But for now—may I speak with her?"
Maria took Elowyn's hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. She looked into her eyes, her voice warm.
"Darling, don't worry. He's kind. Just say hello. I'll go with you."
With Maria guiding her, Elowyn hesitantly stepped forward.
Boris smiled gently as he approached.
"What is your name, child?"
"I—I'm Elowyn. It's nice to meet you, sir," she stammered.
Boris chuckled and patted her head.
"Is your life here comfortable?"
Elowyn gave a small nod and a soft smile.
Boris looked pleased.
"I'm happy to hear that. I look forward to getting to know you better."
With that, he turned toward the gathered crowd. In front of them all stood a middle-aged woman dressed in a maid's uniform. The moment Boris saw her, his expression softened with recognition.
She bowed deeply. "Greetings, Sir Boris. It is an honor to see you again."
Boris let out a light laugh. "It's good to see you too, Martha. You've aged along with me, I see."
Martha smiled warmly. "Time spares no one, my lord."
His expression softened. "So, you remained here even after I left. I gave you permission to live as you pleased."
Martha lifted her head, her eyes filled with quiet determination. "How could I, my lord? It was because of your kindness that I was able to live happily. I could never repay that debt, not even if I served for the rest of my life. So, I did my best after you were gone."
Boris let out a sigh, his heart heavy with gratitude.
"Thank you for everything you've done for my family. It means more to me than words can say."
He glanced at Leone.
"What is your position now, Martha?"
"I am the head maid, my lord."
Boris smiled. "Head maid… I'm not surprised. You were always the most suitable for that role. My son made a wise decision."
Leone stepped closer.
"Father, you must be tired from your long journey. Let's go inside and rest. We can talk afterward."
Boris nodded. "Yes, let's do that."
…
After breakfast, the family gathered in the living room. Leone explained everything about Elowyn to Boris, who listened intently. Once the story was finished, he leaned back in his chair, lost in thought.
"…I'm truly surprised," Boris finally said. "I didn't think the legend was real."
Leone frowned. "Legend? What legend?"
Boris absentmindedly tapped his index finger against the armrest of his chair.
"In our treasured library, there is a secret chamber—one that only the six lords can enter."
"I know of it," Leone said. "I've been there twice. What about it?"
"That chamber holds ancient records containing secrets from centuries past. Long ago, I read one of them. It spoke of demi-humans… ones who could transform into white peacocks."
Leone's eyes widened. "There was such a record?"
"Yes, but as you know, most records don't state their authors. That one was no exception." Boris paused before continuing. "There was something else in it—something unbelievable."
"What was it?"
Boris took a deep breath.
"It claimed that white peacock blood was one of the rarest and most powerful elixirs ever known. According to the record, 'Even death can be reversed by it.'"
Leone inhaled sharply. "What…?"
"The record also said that one day, the white peacock demi-humans vanished without a trace. At the time, I assumed they had gone extinct. But now, knowing that it was the work of Archmage Arcane… everything makes sense."
Leone exhaled slowly, as if piecing everything together.
"A high-ranking elixir… I see. That explains it. Archmage Arcane did well to hide them. Father, did you know that people are obsessed with white peacocks? I saw it myself at an auction. Even normal white peacocks are in danger because of it. Do you think that has anything to do with this?"
"Perhaps," Boris replied. "White peacocks are naturally rare, which is why they're so valuable. But there's also the possibility that some people already know about these demi-humans."
Ashan, who had been quietly listening, let out a sigh.
So… it's finally out in the open. No helping it now. But at least we're the only ones who know.
His gaze flickered toward Elowyn. She sat in stunned silence, her face filled with fear, sadness, and guilt.
She's scared, Ashan realized. She must have known that her blood caused this madness. Now that it's revealed, she must feel like she's in danger…
Boris suddenly turned to Leone, his expression serious.
"Son, this must remain a secret—no matter what. We must protect what our ancestors protected."
He then looked at Elowyn, noticing her trembling.
"My child," he called gently, holding out his hand. "Come here."
Elowyn hesitated, but after a moment, she stood and approached. Boris guided her to sit beside him, then took her small hands in his.
"Don't be afraid," he said, his voice filled with warmth. "We will protect you, no matter what. I promise you that."
Elowyn looked up at him, her eyes shimmering with emotion. Slowly, a smile formed on her lips, and she nodded.
Boris patted her head affectionately.
"That's a good girl. Keep smiling."
Leone cleared his throat. "Father, I'm planning to inform the First Lord about this situation and see what he can do."
Leone explained the upcoming event that would take place at the First Lord's mansion.
Boris considered for a moment before nodding.
"Hmm… That man is someone we can trust, indeed. Can I attend the event as well?"
"Why not, Father?" Leone replied. "I'll send a letter to him right away, informing him of your presence. He will be happy to see you again."
"I also want to meet him," Boris said. "Then allow me to be the one to discuss this matter with him."
Leone nodded, relieved.
"Yes, Father. I'm happy that you'll handle this instead of me."
To be continued…