Chapter Twenty-Two: An Awakening at a Wake

"Those who are sold as Slaves officially become Slaves when the proper paperwork is turned in to the Association of Slave Owners."

Because Polaris was on his own and not part of a slow caravan, he made haste and managed to arrive at Lakeblood Manor in the former Kingdom of Saíd on Zafirô 18, eleven days after he learned of Myrdor's passing. The once red trees were void of leaves and flawless white snow blanketed the ground, the black rune-like designs of which decorated the estate with a dark elegance. Polaris's coach rolled up to the entrance and the butler answered the large, gunmetal doors.

"Your Honor," he said. "The lady is expecting you. Allow me to show you to her and I'll have someone take care of your coach and horses."

"Thank you," said Polaris.

The butler removed Polaris's black coat and showed him to a sitting room this time. Here the marchioness sat reading in front of a roaring fireplace and Rein was already there reading the same book over her shoulder.