Dress a lamb for sacrifice

Scene 15

Location: Maam Fiona's Room, Spring House

The room is elegantly decorated with wooden furnishings, a testament to wealth and taste. Soft golden hues blend with blue accents, creating a tranquil yet regal atmosphere. Shelves hold various trinkets, perfumes, and grooming essentials, while the bed, draped in silken sheets, takes center stage. Despite the luxury, an air of unease lingers.

Maam Fiona lies on her side, lost in thought. The scent of brewing tea fills the room, but she remains distant, her mind elsewhere. Her moment of reflection is abruptly interrupted by the sound of heavy footsteps outside her door. Merchant Nior has arrived.

Merchant Nior (touching her cheek): Have you found the girl yet?

Maam Fiona (expressionless): The guards captured her, but…

Merchant Nior's face lights up for a moment, but Maam Fiona's hesitation tempers his excitement.

Merchant Nior: But? But what?

Maam Fiona: She was struck on the back by one of the guards. She lost consciousness during the capture.

His excitement fades, replaced by frustration.

Merchant Nior: And how is she now?

Maam Fiona: I've sent Jigu to watch over her. If she wakes, Jigu will inform me, and I'll let you know.

Merchant Nior's hand tightens around Maam Fiona's jaw, his voice a low growl.

Merchant Nior (angry): Do you have any idea how many noblemen are expecting to see her at the auction?! It starts in an hour, and you're telling me you'll 'inform me' if she wakes up?

Maam Fiona winces in pain as his grip tightens.

Maam Fiona (pleading): Leave... let me go.

She struggles, but his grip remains firm until finally, he releases her, and she falls to the floor, clutching her aching jaw. She tries to compose herself, but the sharp pain radiates through her body.

Merchant Nior (coldly): Make sure she wakes and gets dressed. Be at the auction villa in 40 minutes. (grabs her hair, pulling her closer) Or I'll make sure you suffer for it.

Suddenly, a knock echoes through the room. Both Maam Fiona and Merchant Nior glance toward the door.

Merchant Nior: Enter.

The door creaks open, and Jigu steps inside, her face instantly filled with concern upon seeing Maam Fiona on the floor. However, she remains silent, intimidated by Merchant Nior's presence.

Merchant Nior: Well? Has she woken up?

Jigu looks between Maam Fiona and Merchant Nior, her nervousness palpable.

Merchant Nior (stepping closer): Why are you not answering?

Maam Fiona, still on the floor, tugs at his robe gently, her voice soft but firm.

Maam Fiona: Don't frighten the child. Jigu, come forward. Speak.

Jigu steps closer, her head lowered, and begins to speak, her voice trembling slightly.

Jigu: Astraea has regained consciousness. She's well and hasn't lost her memory. She's resting in the prison room after taking the medicine the doctor prescribed.

She lowers her head completely, trying to avoid his piercing gaze. Merchant Nior's mood shifts instantly, a triumphant grin spreading across his face.

Merchant Nior (laughing): Hahaha! Excellent! So excellent! (turning to Maam Fiona) Get her dressed in the finest fabric and bring her to the auction villa. I'll be waiting. Hahaha!

Merchant Nior exits, clearly pleased with the news. As soon as the door closes behind him, Jigu rushes to Maam Fiona's side, hugging her tightly. Maam Fiona, still shaken, wraps her arms around Jigu in return, holding her close.

Maam Fiona (her voice breaking): Let's go… we have to dress a lamb for sacrifice.

Her eyes glisten with unshed tears, the weight of the situation pressing down on her.

Jigu (crying, nodding): Yes...

The two share a sorrowful moment, both fully aware of the grim fate awaiting Astraea.