Chương 104: Once Again
They halted at the eastern outskirts of Alaksad, just beyond the Embercrow territory. Octavius and Cornelius, ever vigilant, scanned their surroundings with caution.
Erebus dismounted from his garron and offered a hand to Nemesis first, then to Luciana gently helping her out of the carriage. As she attempted to walk, her legs gave way beneath her.
He caught her instinctively.
"Is the pain too much?" Erebus asked, his voice soft with concern.
Luciana,frustrated, turned her head away, refusing to respond. His guilt weighed heavily upon him; he hadn't restrained himself that night. Even after Lilith had given him all those lessons he deserved to know, he hadn't been able to fully control his strength. Now, standing beside her, he feared that his proximity would only lead to further harm.
"Nemesis, be careful!" Luciana called out, her voice full of warning. The bustling town, though small, was alive with travelers, townsfolk, and merchants. Erebus' eyes followed Nemesis closely as Luciana navigated the crowds, mindful of any passing riders or carts.
Mina caught up with Nemesis and held him close, ensuring his safety until they reached their supposed destination. As they approached, a man of imposing presence greeted them.
"Welcome to Alaksad, my Lord," the man said with a respectful bow. "I am Lucifer Blackheathen, the acting lord of this city, appointed by the Emperor himself."
Lucifer was a middle-aged demon, his black eyes gleaming with slit-orange pupils reminiscent of a serpent's.
"It is our honor to serve you and your kin. Greetings, Madame," he added, attempting to take Luciana's hand. Erebus swiftly intervened, stepping between them, his men closing ranks around Luciana and Nemesis protectively.
"There is no need for hostility," Lucifer continued smoothly. "We mean no harm. When I received your letter regarding your arrival, I was compelled to welcome you personally."
Erebus raised an eyebrow. "I'm surprised you accepted, given my reputation," he remarked, his words tinged with subtle mockery.
"The Emperor and the Crown Prince hold you in high regard," Lucifer replied, undeterred. "I've heard you were offered the position as head of the Imperial Execution Department."
"I declined," Erebus said flatly.
"Perhaps we could discuss such matters at the estate?" Lucifer suggested. He gestured towards a mansion in the distance, the very one where Erebus had once slain the heir of Alaksad during a wildling extermination mission.
Luciana guided Nemesis back to the carriage, with Mina and the other maid following close behind. Erebus signaled his men to remain vigilant, and without hesitation, they complied.
Alaksad was a fortified city, its twenty-five-meter-high white brick walls standing tall around them. Smaller and more vibrant than the Stygian Frontier, the city bustled with life. By the time the sun reached its zenith, they had arrived at the mansion.
Gone were the puppet slaves Erebus had encountered during his previous visit. The oppressive atmosphere had lifted, and the once-poisonous gardens were being replaced with safer flora, though the western wing still bore the scars of the fire he had set.
"I apologize for the unsightly damage," Lucifer said, glancing at the charred remains of the mansion's west wing. "The fire was severe. It took two days and over a hundred servants to extinguish. However, the guest quarters in the eastern annex are untouched, and we are residing there for now."
Erebus gave a curt nod, aware of his role in the destruction. "I'm not here for luxury. Take your time."
The carriage came to a halt, and Luciana, ensuring their disguises remained intact, stepped out alongside Nemesis, Cornelius, and Octavius.
"Would you prefer lunch before resting, Lord Stygian?" Lucifer inquired, his tone gracious.
Erebus looked to Luciana, who leaned on his arm. "My wife isn't feeling well and would prefer to rest. Send the meals to our room."
Luciana, sensing tension, intervened gently. "It's alright, my Lord. Why don't we have lunch after we've refreshed ourselves? What do you think, Lord Blackheath?"
"Of course, as the lady desires," Lucifer agreed with a smile, instructing his servants to prepare their accommodations.
Erebus scowled as they moved inside. "That sly snake," he muttered under his breath. His men began to settle in, remaining ever-watchful.
The guest quarters were adorned with gleaming chandeliers, fine paintings, and ornate decorations—a stark contrast to Erebus' cold fortress. Nemesis, wide-eyed, was captivated by the crystals reflecting light throughout the room.
"We've arrived, my Lord and Lady," the servant announced, bowing deeply. "If you require anything, pull the bell rope beside the bed. The servants' quarters are adjacent to the main room, so we will remain nearby during your stay." With that, he exited, leaving them to explore.
Luciana, exhausted, sank into the bed. Mina busied herself with tending to Nemesis, while Erebus continued his silent inspection of the room.
"Why did you agree to his offer?" he asked Luciana, his voice low. "That man ogled you like a predator."
She did not meet his gaze, ignoring his remark.
"Mina, Nemesis," Luciana called out, her tone lightening. "Shall we explore the gardens?"
The two readily accepted her invitation, leaving Erebus and Luciana alone for a moment.
Before she could leave, Erebus grasped her arm gently, pulling her closer. His voice softened. "I... I apologize for my rudeness."
Luciana's eyes widened at his unexpected apology. His touch was gentle, his expression sincere. For a moment, she hesitated, unsure of how to respond.
"What are you apologizing for?" she asked after a brief pause, her tone measured.
He averted his gaze, briefly scratching the back of his neck, uncertainty etched on his face. In that moment, he reminded her of Leo, whenever guilt weighed heavily on him.
"For everything… up until now," he admitted, his voice low. "I realize it's not enough, but I'm asking for more time—just a little longer."
Luciana stepped closer, her eyes searching his. "Will you take me back to Amanécer?" she asked softly, her gaze unwavering.
For a moment, Erebus was visibly unsettled, unsure if it was her proximity or the gravity of her request that caused his unease. He gathered his thoughts before replying, his tone firm yet restrained. "That won't be possible right now. It's too dangerous."
Luciana remained composed, her voice steady. "Then at least let me be part of your affairs. That way, we can avoid any more misunderstandings between us."
After a moment's hesitation, Erebus gave a subtle nod, silently agreeing to her request. However, as she moved to rise, intent on finding Nemesis, he gently held her back, not yet ready to let her go.
She retreated by his side without sharing another word.
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