Chapter 30: Traitor who wants to seduce?
Galliard left to send the message, Estefan sat there enjoying the coffee. He looked around while drinking it, it was a busy day for his servants.
The servants had already begun their daily work, gliding through the halls like well-trained assassins, ensuring that nothing looked out of place when their master emerged.
After finishing his coffee, he stood up and stretched. The cup was taken by a servant who quickly made their way towards the kitchen. He then walked towards the dining hall which was near the kitchen so the food could arrive with ease.
Estefan sat at the long table in the dining hall and beside him stood Ericka, a young maid present there who had mostly served him up close ever since he arrived in the City. Her hands were clasped in front of her lap, posture straight, her head slightly bowed which was a model of proper etiquette.
She didn’t speak unless spoken to, and Estefan, who often despised small talk, found this rather refreshing. "Bring the breakfast." He said without glancing at her.
"Yes, my lord." She replied softly before turning on her heel and disappearing into the kitchen corridor.
He watched her, as she made her way to the kitchen. Her movements rather reminded him of a tiny duckling running behind its mother which for a moment made him chuckle but it quickly disappeared.
Moments later, she returned with a tray lined with golden trim. Eggs were poached and salted lay beside a slice of roasted boar meat, with fresh fruits from the countryside placed around a loaf of baked dark rye. She laid it all before him, stepping back and bowing her head once more.
Estefan took the fork and knife without a word as he ate slowly while his mind drifted between plans and memories, thoughts of how to handle the rats, the people, crime families and the vision he carried for this rotting city.
Ericka stood silently nearby, eyes half-lidded and serene. She had memorized his behavior quickly: don’t look him in the eye while he eats, don’t ask questions, and always ensure the water is cold when requested.
Once finished, Estefan rose, wiped his lips with the cloth, and glanced outside. "I will be in the courtyard." He muttered.