Shatter Me Twice

VII

RHEA
The carriage swayed gently as it moved along the winding road, the rhythmic clatter of the wheels a constant companion during the journey. The landscape outside had gradually transformed from the familiar greenery of the common lands to the more cultivated beauty of the high-class grounds. It was a journey that spanned nearly three hours, each passing mile bringing me closer to the heart of this land where the great resided, where luxury and power intertwined in an intricate dance.

As we drew nearer, I peeked through the small window beside me, careful to maintain an air of composed curiosity rather than eager fascination. The sky above was a soft canvas of pale blue, streaked with wisps of white clouds that seemed to float lazily across the horizon. The late afternoon sun bathed the surroundings in a warm, golden light, casting long shadows on the manicured lawns and gardens that lined the road.

My eyes were drawn to the grand estates that began to appear with increasing frequency, each one a testament to the wealth and prestige of its inhabitants. The houses were magnificent, a symphony of architectural styles that ranged from the stately and traditional to the ornate and avant-garde. Some were adorned with towering spires and intricate stonework, while others boasted sweeping terraces and grand columns that spoke of classical elegance. The lawns were immaculate, the flowers in full bloom, adding splashes of color to the otherwise uniform greenery.

I allowed a faint smile to cross my lips, appreciating the beauty of it all. But it was not just the beauty that stirred something within me—it was the realization that I was now a part of this world, even if I had yet to understand my place within it. I drew the short curtain across the window, shielding myself from the view and settling back into the plush seat. The carriage continued its steady pace, the journey's end now imminent.

At last, the carriage slowed to a stop. I took a deep breath, readying myself for whatever awaited me outside. The door opened with a smooth motion, and I stepped down onto the gravel path, feeling the solid earth beneath my feet after hours of being confined to the carriage. The air here was different—crisper, cleaner, as if the very atmosphere was imbued with the opulence of the surroundings.

My attention was immediately drawn to the maids who had come forward to attend to my belongings. They moved with practiced efficiency, their uniforms pristine and perfectly tailored. The dresses they wore were a deep, muted blue, the fabric rich yet understated, a symbol of their status as servants in this house of nobles. Their hair was neatly pinned back, their movements synchronized as they unloaded the trunks and cases with quiet diligence. There was an air of discipline about them, a quiet grace that came from years of service in such an esteemed household.

As I watched them work, my gaze shifted to the environment around me. The grounds were immaculate, every detail meticulously maintained. A grand fountain stood at the center of the courtyard, its waters dancing and shimmering in the sunlight. The gentle sound of the water cascading into the basin provided a soothing backdrop, complementing the soft rustle of the breeze through the trees. Flower beds lined the path, bursting with color and fragrance, their blossoms a vivid contrast to the uniform green of the manicured lawns. Each flower seemed carefully chosen, each petal in perfect bloom, adding to the romantic and almost dreamlike quality of the scene.

The mansion before me was a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. It was not just a building; it was a statement of power, prestige, and beauty. The walls were a soft cream, adorned with intricate carvings that told stories of old, of battles fought and victories won, of legends that had shaped this land. Tall windows lined the front, their glass gleaming, reflecting the light and giving a glimpse of the opulence within. Ivy climbed the walls in strategic places, adding a touch of natural elegance to the grandeur of the structure. The roof was crowned with delicate spires and chimneys, their silhouettes sharp against the sky.