Empire of Shadows

Chapter 3: Desmond

It was finally the day which everyone been waiting for, the annual summer beast hunt. The sun was high in the sky, roasting the passing courtiers and servants. Fortunately, there were gusts of wind, blowing from the north, so heat wasn't exhausting or wearisome. Balance prevailed.

Desmond was up from the early morning, bustling from one end of the residence to another. He was so busy; he didn't even break his fast. Instructing the servants how each clan should be seated, which foods on which dishes should be brought, he felt like his head was going to explode soon. And there is also an interior which I have to take care of as well.

Harvey and Haylee weren't fooling around, as they always had been doing; instead mother gave them a task that required patience and hard work. They should list the invited clan magicians, prepare guest houses for them and help servants to clean the mess inside. It sounded and looked like a new punishment for them. However, they could not refuse, so the only way was to nod with a hard sigh.

As Desmond recalled his parents were busy with their garb and dress code for courtiers. Not to mention, the outside decorations and the snug yard in front of the palace. Somebody had to think about it and who if not Edlyn and Keyon?

"Young Master Desmond, we're running out of mead," a servant came running to fair-haired guy with a flustered face.

"What? I believe the supplies arrived several days ago. It's nearly impossible," he murmured to himself.

"This inferior servant checked the cellar twice, but nothing was found there," retainer folded hands in a bow, too ashamed to look up.

"Ohm, forget about mead; bring in the fruit wine from Shanling province."

"As Young Master commands," minted the servant and retired quite quickly.

I should tell father or mother about this matter. Is someone stealing our products? Ugh, this is madness.

"Put this vase aside, it's not of use here," Desmond returned to giving orders.

"The color of curtains should be light blue, not deep purple!"

"Gods, boy that's enough, we are not at a tavern!"

"And where on earth are wandering harmonists?"

"Young Master Desmond," someone addressed him from behind.

"WHAT?!" his thoroughly hidden ferocious nature accidently slipped out as he turned and found Edlyn's personal maid. Desmond quickly changed his face expression, slightly embarrassed from the situation.

"Madam Edlyn awaits Young Master in your room," she stated with an unbothered voice, "she says she wants to speak with you."

"Thank you, I'll be there in a few minutes," Desmond politely responded.

"Madam Edlyn insisted on escorting Young Master immediately," a maid inserted among other things.

I guess it is urgent, if she can't really wait.

"Alfie, you stay in charge. I'll be gone for a short period."

The middle-aged servant with amusing beard swiftly moved his head up and down, giving his understanding.

"Alright, take me there," gave up fair-headed lad, eyeing the maid.

"Follow me."

They crossed Grand Banquette Hall, passing many servants with garlands in hands, and went outside. The sun lit their way up to a bridge where they traversed, noticing gardeners working hard on the yard bellow. A carved wooden gazebo soon appeared and Desmond heard his father discussing the guest's safety on this event: how many patrols will take their watch in the night, what weapons they should wear and who they should be careful with. There is so much foresight and only because of Dark clan arrival.