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Lynn and Tia were to sleep in the western wing of the manor, with the maids and other women.

Much to Tia's excitement, a Priest was available to heat the manor's copper piping and provide steaming hot baths. As Tia practically bounced on the spot, complaining how greasy her hair felt, Damian was sure he saw Lynn smiling happily as well.

After saying goodnight, the girls departed through the opposite side of the lobby. The head butler—a stern-looking man with thick eyebrows—led Damian through the hallways of the northern wing, to his quarters.

The manor's halls filled Damian with warm nostalgia.

As a young child, Damian had spent many summers in the Duchy, playing with Astrid and Nicholas—the only children closest to his age in the family.