Chapter 5: Helena Darrow (1)
The Cornelius estate came into view like the slow unveiling of another world.
Helena Darrow sat upright in the back of a sleek black car that looked like it had never touched a pothole in its life. She tried not to sink too deeply into the ridiculously soft seat cushions, which were so plush they practically tried to cradle her like a treasured heirloom.
She glanced out the window and blinked.
Two massive red-blossomed trees flanked the entrance gates. Each tree had only a handful of large, glowing golden fruits nestled in the branches. Beneath them stood guards—real ones—in full black armor, motionless as statues.
Her eyes widened. "Wait... are those Crimson Vitality Pears? The ones that only grow once every three years?"
She clutched her purse as if the fruit might hear her and demand taxes.
"I’ve only ever seen those on TV," she whispered under her breath. "I thought those were, like, protected by law or... rich people regulations."
David, the driver, gave no response. He was focused, unflinching. His sharp uniform and silver-trimmed gloves made him look more like a royal escort than a chauffeur.
Helena leaned slightly toward the window and whispered, "Is it normal to guard fruit like it’s gold?"
"They are after all quite valuable and can improve a person’s health. They can be exchanged for other spirt fruits, valuables and... favors." David politely answered this time.
She sat back and tried not to whistle.
Her hazelnut brown hair was tucked neatly behind her ears, though a few loose strands danced from the car’s subtle air vents. Her eyes, warm and rich like polished chestnuts, took in the estate grounds with increasing disbelief.