Chapter 219 - Visit in paradise
Scarlett drew looks from the mansion’s servants as she trailed behind Empress through the halls, especially when the cat paused for some pats and attention along the way. Most appeared bewildered by Scarlett’s presence as Empress insisted on their grooming, but none seemed able to resist the cat.
One girl—presumably a new hire since Scarlett didn’t recognize her—seemed particularly uneasy under her gaze, but Empress was nothing if not relentless in her demand for others to attend to her.
Navigating through the mansion took longer than necessary, but Scarlett refrained from voicing any complaints as they finally made their way out through the rear of the estate. Using her pyrokinesis to stave off the chill, she followed Empress towards the hedge garden where the Loci was kept.
A blanket of thin white covered most of the estate, extending towards the training grounds and ending at the stone walls. The garden, at first glance, seemed no different, with snow-laden paths and bare hedges outlining its perimeter.
However, as Scarlett followed Empress deeper into the garden, signs of life began to emerge. The hedges sprouted green leaves, and the snow yielded to well-tended gravel paths. Colorful, peculiar flowers blossomed along the paths as the air warmed, allowing Scarlett to ease off her pyrokinesis.
Empress proudly led the way to the garden’s center, which revealed a spacious area with a quaint gazebo at one end and a stone pedestal at its core. Resting atop that pedestal was the Loci, a sizeable, uncut emerald encircled by vegetation.
A man of unassuming appearance sat on a bench. He wore a top hat, his shoulders covered by a dark cape, and a stylish cane rested next to him. The Gentleman surveyed the garden with a contented smile, seemingly undisturbed by Scarlett and Empress’ entrance.
Scarlett paused briefly as Empress continued forward, hopping onto the bench beside the man and settling down to lick her paw.
“It has been some time since I last saw another house spirit in this realm,” The Gentleman remarked, his gaze lingering on the Loci and the array of flowers that grew at the base. “They often require very particular conditions to thrive. Although I probably should not be, I am pleased to see that you have made good use of the gift my dear companion left for you.”
Scarlett glanced at the Loci. From it, she could feel a subtle sense of recognition aimed at The Gentleman. Or perhaps not recognition, but acknowledgment. While the artifact lacked true consciousness, it undeniably responded to the man’s presence.
“With the assistance of Dean Warley Godwin from Elystead Tower, we utilized the ashenwraith dragon’s heart to provide a power source,” Scarlett said as she moved closer to the man.
“The craftsmanship did seem familiar. Dean Godwin is indeed a masterful wizard.”