The broken gear

Divine Family Tension

Natuna was in the garden in front of some Irises. She turned around and motioned Nelle to go over to her. Nelle knocked on Thomas' door. He had changed into a more casual outfit. He had light brown cotton dress pants and a long sleeve white shirt made of cotton, as well as short leather shoes.

"Can I go to the garden?"

"Sure."

He and Nelle walked into the backdoor and through a path where they arrived near a stone fountain with three tiers.

They saw Natuna looking at some Freesias. She turned around and grabbed Nelle's arm without paying attention to Thomas and brought her into a path that would lead to other parts of the garden. It was enough to where Thomas could hear their voices but not what they were saying. He could tell that they were arguing.

"Why did you decide to leave?"

"Because, I needed to get away from that toxic environment."

"What toxic environment?"

"Oh yeah, because everything is so perfect back home. Especially with all the affairs and slaves you have."

"They aren't slaves, they enjoy doing my bidding."

"I wonder why."

"They do! Every time they do something for me they feel a wave of pleasure," she said infuriated. "Anyway, has he at least been worshipping you?"

"What, no!"

"Well then, what use does he have?"

"Maybe I just needed a break."

"From what? It's not like you work."

"Neither do you!"

"Oh please, I make sure everyone can feel pleasure. In more ways than one."

Nelle sighed. "I don't want to talk to you anymore."

"Just come back. I promise I'll make your punishment less severe."

"No." Nelle said softly.

"What was that?" Natuna said sternly.

"I said I don't want to go back. Not now at least." Nelle said gently, with a hint of fear.

Natuna sighed. "Fine, I'll let you make a choice. You have a few days, choose wisely," she said with an ominous tone.

The same light that Nelle and Thomas saw when walking towards the manor appeared and Natuna was no longer there.

Nelle walked over to Thomas being slight embarrassed and anxious.

"Why did I say that?"

"What's wrong?"

"You couldn't hear?"

"I could hear you just not what you were saying."

"I really hope I don't get banned."

"Don't worry, everything will be ok."

"You don't know that, but I hope you're right."

"How about we go back inside."

"Alright."

They went back inside and entered their corresponding rooms. Both had trouble sleeping.