Chapter 12: You can’t change that fact
The Dravenhart Mansion was in complete chaos. Maids and butlers scurried around, their footsteps echoing through the grand halls as they rushed to clean every corner, dust every surface, and prepare lavish decorations. Chatter filled the corridors as fresh linens were laid out, and the scent of polished wood and fresh flowers lingered in the air.
"The First Lady is arriving!" one maid whispered excitedly to another as they polished the staircase railings.
"I heard she hasn't visited in years," replied the other, her hands scrubbing furiously.
Meanwhile, upstairs in the east wing, Elias made his way up the spiraling staircase, his footsteps light but swift. He reached the grand double doors of Axelius's room and gave a firm knock. "Young Master, it's time to wake up," he called, his voice smooth and patient.
No response.
Elias knocked again, slightly louder this time. "Young Master, you must wake up. All the Dravenhart children have been summoned. Lady Vivienne is arriving."
A muffled groan came from behind the door, followed by the unmistakable sound of something heavy being thrown. Elias stepped back just in time to catch a fluffy pillow that flew straight at his face. His reflexes were sharp, catching it effortlessly. He stood there, perfectly composed, the pillow still in his hands.
"Young Master," Elias called out again, his voice still gentle but firm, "you need to get up now."
Another groan. Then, the sound of rustling blankets. Axelius, his hair tangled and his eyes barely open, sat up on the bed. He yawned loudly, his mouth stretching wide as he rubbed his eyes, then stretched his arms high above his head. "Why so early..." he mumbled, his voice slurred with sleep.
Elias watched with a patient smile as Axelius scooted to the edge of the bed and waited. Without hesitation, Elias stepped forward and gently lifted Axelius down from the high mattress, setting him onto the cool wooden floor.
"Good morning, Young Master," Elias greeted him politely.