Chalter 7

Fifteen minutes later, the group stopped in front of Drachenstein Mansion, a grand estate nestled near the city center. The building stood two stories tall, its gray stone exterior complemented by red-tiled roofs. A golden metal gate enclosed the property, its design intricate yet imposing.

Beyond the gate, a brick path led to the house's entrance, winding through a carefully tended garden bursting with vibrant flowers and fragrant herbs. The scent of lavender and rosemary lingered in the air, a stark contrast to the hostility of the city.

Laya puffed out her chest proudly. "Hmm. Let's go inside, ladies!" she declared, pushing the gate open with a flourish.

As they stepped onto the property, Archus pondered whether the three of them truly managed this vast estate alone. It seemed like an impossible amount of work. But before he could dwell on it further, a sudden realization hit.

"Oh… Miss Laya, Arch needs a diaper change," Rin said hesitantly, her cheeks tinged with pink.

"Right, I didn't notice. Let's hurry and change him inside," Laya responded, concern flickering in her eyes. She pulled a key from her pocket and unlocked the heavy wooden door adorned with metallic dragon knockers.

Inside, the grand foyer welcomed them with a sweeping staircase that led to the second floor. A glass chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting soft light across polished wooden floors. The scent of aged wood and faint traces of incense lingered in the air.

Laya set Archus down on a table in the living room. "Rin, fetch me a pail of water, a basin, and a towel."

"Yes, Miss Laya!" Rin said, quickly hurrying off.

As the two women worked swiftly to clean the infant, Lyndis silently began her household chores. The rhythmic swish of a broom against the floor and the distant dripping of water from freshly washed linens filled the space.

Archus relaxed as the discomfort faded. He was soon fed, and before long, sleep claimed him.