The Fate of Hyacinth

Chapter 3: Learning the Butler's Way

Sebastian stepped into the grand dining room, mesmerized by the elegance of the butlers standing beside their designated seats. The room was illuminated by the soft and warm glow of the elegant chandeliers, casting a magical spell on the ambiance. The walls were adorned with portraits of past residents of the ancient castle, adding to the room's nobility.

A senior butler who had been present during the morning assembly took charge and directed the other butlers to their seats. Light conversations and laughter gradually filled the room as they settled into their chairs, creating a lively atmosphere.

The servants soon arrived, serving them platters of orzo cooked in chicken broth, accompanied by buttered bread and a zesty salad that hinted at a touch of lemon. The aroma of the food wafted through the air, enticing Sebastian's senses and making his mouth water in anticipation.

It was a simple yet gratifying meal, a reminder that moments of shared experience and connection were essential even in their rigorous training. As they ate, Sebastian couldn't help but marvel at the exquisite taste of the food, which was a testament to the culinary expertise of the castle's kitchen staff.

With lunch out of the way, Sebastian returned to the library to finish his work there. As he was dusting away the books and the shelves, he saw a beautifully crafted candle stand tucked away in the corner of a bookshelf seemingly long forgotten from the placement.

The stand seemed to be made out of glass, which Sebastian had never seen much of before. Carefully, he picked up the stand to have a closer look, but as soon as he removed it from the shelf, an untimely sneeze made its way out, and before he could put the stand safely back in its place, it was already lying on the floor shattered in several pieces.

Sebastian panicked after seeing the ancient candle holder broken to pieces on the floor, and before his brain could work, he was on his knees with his handkerchief spread as he started to collect the shattered pieces.

Once done picking up even the tiniest of the glass pieces, he bundled up the handkerchief, reached deep under the bookshelf he was kneeling in front of, and placed it there, making a mental note to throw it out later and returned to what he was doing.

Once done in the library, Sebastian left, completely forgetting about his mishap. The castle's hallways were quiet, with only his footsteps echoing through the corridors. By now, the initial sense of peace had given way to monotony.

He reminded himself to maintain discipline and complete the work he had left. With renewed determination, he pressed on, and finally, as the day's duties ended, Sebastian carefully returned the duster to its place in the closet, ensuring its neat placement before closing the door.

He headed to the kitchen to see if they needed assistance preparing dinner there. Upon entering, he observed a senior butler overseeing the kitchen staff, orchestrating their work precisely.

Approaching the overseeing butler, Sebastian awaited acknowledgment. "Ah, Sebastian, what brings you down here?" The butler inquired sternly, perhaps expecting Sebastian to be still working.

"I have completed my tasks, sir," Sebastian replied, his voice unwavering despite his earlier trepidation.

The senior butler nodded in acknowledgment, appreciating Sebastian's diligence. "Very well," he said, his tone measured and approving, "in that case, you may assist in preparing dinner."

Sebastian felt pride at being entrusted with preparing the evening's meal. He rolled his sleeves, ready to immerse himself in the culinary tasks ahead.

The kitchen was in a whirlwind of activity, with butlers and staff working seamlessly. Sebastian observed the controlled chaos, admiring the skill with which everyone orchestrated the culinary dance. He was assigned to assist the pastry chef, who meticulously crafted delicate pastries for the evening dessert.