For My Adonis

Chapter 3: The Prince named Adonis

She led Nuria through the grand corridors of the palace, their footsteps echoing against the opulent walls adorned with intricate tapestries and glistening chandeliers.

The air was filled with a sense of majesty and a hint of mystery.

"My dear, what is your name?"

"Nuria," she managed to mumble, becoming shy under the woman's mighty gaze.

Her voice carries a regal tone as she begins to speak, "I am Lady Seraphina Elysande, wife of Duke Alaric Elysande. My father, Lord Maximilian Astoria's house, is second only to the king himself. Our family has long been entrusted with the honor of serving the realm, ensuring its prosperity, and safeguarding its traditions. What those nobles said to you will reach my father's ears. I'll ensure it."

Nuria listened intently, her curiosity piqued by the noble lineage of her newfound protector. She couldn't help but feel a mix of awe and uncertainty in the presence of such a noble heritage.

"Throughout the generations, the Astoria family has been known for our loyalty, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to justice," Lady Seraphina continued. "It is our duty to protect those who are deserving of our care and shelter them from harm."

Nuria's brows furrowed slightly as she thought about Lady Seraphina's words. The question burned within her, begging to be asked.

With a tentative voice, she finally spoke up, "Lady Seraphina, may I ask why you chose to shield me? A mere nothing like myself?"

Lady Seraphina's gaze softened, her eyes reflecting a depth of compassion. She paused for a moment, choosing her words carefully. "My dear Nuria," she replied, her voice tinged with empathy, "the world can be a harsh and unforgiving place. Those who possess power and privilege often misuse it, inflicting pain upon the vulnerable."

She reached out and gently touched Nuria's arm, a reassuring gesture. "In you, I saw a spirit that deserved better, a spark of resilience that refused to be extinguished. You may feel you are nothing, but you are no less deserving of protection and care than any noble soul. It is my duty, as a member of the Astoria family, to offer you sanctuary and guide you on a path where your true potential can flourish."

Nuria absorbed Lady Seraphina's words, feeling a mixture of gratitude and disbelief. She had always considered herself invisible, unworthy of attention or assistance. Yet, here she stood, in the presence of a noblewoman who believed in her worth.

"Thank you, Lady Seraphina," Nuria whispered, her voice filled with a newfound determination. "I will do my best to prove myself and honor the trust you have placed in me."

Lady Seraphina smiled warmly, her eyes shimmering with pride. "I do not doubt that you will, my dear Nuria. The strength you carry within you is a force to be reckoned with. Together, we shall navigate the intricacies of this world and create a future worthy of your potential."

As they continued their journey through the palace, Nuria felt a sense of purpose blossom within her. She knew that her life had taken an unexpected turn, leading her into the midst of nobility and privilege.

With Lady Seraphina's guidance, Nuria would learn to navigate the complexities of her new world, seeking to understand the hidden motives and power dynamics that lurked beneath the surface.

They approached the grand entrance of Lady Seraphina's chambers. Nuria couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope and anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead.

As Nuria entered the noblewoman's lavish bath chamber, she marveled at the intricate designs adorning the walls and the shimmering gold accents that glowed in the soft light.

Lady Seraphina Elysande, standing by the entrance, motioned for her to proceed.

"Please, my dear servant," Lady Seraphina said with a warm smile, "make yourself comfortable. Take this moment to cleanse your body and mind."

Nuria nodded gratefully, feeling a mixture of awe and trepidation. The room was adorned with scented candles, their gentle fragrance wafting through the air.

A large bathtub, filled with steaming water, stood in the center, surrounded by a plush rug and cushioned seating. The opulence was unlike anything Nuria had ever seen.

"I shall leave you now to enjoy your bath," Lady Seraphina said, her voice carrying a soothing tone. "Once you have finished, there will be fresh clothes for you to wear. Rest assured, we will attend to your needs."

Nuria nodded again, her throat tight with emotions she struggled to express. "Thank you, Lady Seraphina," she managed to whisper. "Your kindness... it means more to me than words can convey."

With a gentle nod, Lady Seraphina exited the chamber, closing the door behind her.

Nuria slowly undressed, her worn and tattered clothes falling to the floor. The moment of solitude enveloped her, and as she stepped into the warm embrace of the bath, tears began to stream down her face.

"What now?" Nuria murmured to herself, her voice choked with grief.

The weight of her losses, the pain of her mother's death, and the betrayal she had endured threatened to overwhelm her. The sound of her own cries echoed in the chamber, mingling with the soft music playing from a long distance away.

As Nuria soaked in the water, her sobs gradually subsided, replaced by a solemn calmness. She allowed herself to surrender to the moment, to acknowledge the depth of her grief and the need to heal.

Amidst the silence, a voice within her whispered words of solace and guidance. It was as if her mother's spirit was speaking to her, reminding her of her inner strength and resilience.

"My precious Nuri," the voice seemed to say, "you are stronger than you realize. Embrace your pain, for it will shape you into someone even more extraordinary."

With each passing moment, Nuria's breathing steadied.

After some time, Nuria emerged from the bath, feeling refreshed and renewed. She reached for the soft towels provided and wrapped herself in their warm embrace. As she dried off, she noticed a set of finely crafted clothes laid out on a nearby chair.

With a mixture of excitement and nervousness, Nuria examined the garments. They were exquisite, far beyond anything she had ever worn. The fabric felt luxurious against her skin, and she marveled at the intricate embroidery and delicate details.

As she donned the new attire, Nuria felt a sense of transformation. The clothes seemed to carry a newfound confidence, as if they were imbued with Lady Seraphina's belief in her potential.

She tried to tame her wild, curly, poofy hair but failed miserably. She simply always kept it tied at the nape of her neck, but the tie she used was too dirty to put around her hair.

Nuria took it upon herself to clean the dirty chamber she had just sullied and after a moment she had managed to almost bring it back to its former state.

She threw her old clothes into a dump compartment nearby. And walked out of the chambers feeling a bit lost.

Was it becoming a habit of hers, getting lost?

Nuria wanted to find Lady Seraphina to let her know she was ready to work. She wanted to tell the Lady she had some skills in writing and reading and would be useful in that area.

As Nuria adjusted her attire, she caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror. The reflection that stared back at her was strikingly different from the girl she had known all her life.

The fabric draped elegantly on her frame, accentuating her features and hinting at the strength within her.

Where she had come from, a mirror was rare, especially among the brotherhood assassins who did not stand for vanity. She would only ever gaze upon her own visage in rivers and ponds.

While she admired her appearance, Nuria's attention was abruptly drawn to the sound of footsteps approaching the bedroom chamber.

Her heart skipped a beat, and she turned to face the door, a mix of curiosity and dread coursing through her veins.

The door swung open, revealing a figure that took her breath away. Standing before her was a man of unparalleled beauty. His chiseled jawline, piercing eyes, and perfectly tousled hair seemed like the work of an artist's brushstroke. His presence radiated an effortless charm, drawing Nuria's gaze as if she were caught in a trance.

Nuria's heart raced, and for a moment, she feared she might just die. She had never encountered someone so captivating, someone who seemed to possess a beauty that defied the limits of mere mortals.

"Ah, Prince Adonis," Lady Seraphina's voice resonated from behind the man, breaking Nuria's spellbound gaze. "Allow me to introduce you to Nuria, my dear servant. She has recently joined my household."

Prince Adonis, the embodiment of regal grace, turned his attention towards Nuria. His eyes met hers, and a hint of curiosity danced within their depths.

"Nuria," he spoke, his voice a melodic blend of warmth and intrigue. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance."

Nuria's voice caught in her throat as she stammered out a reply. "T-thank you, Your Highness. It is an honor to be in your presence."

Prince Adonis offered a gracious smile, his eyes glimmering with a touch of amusement. "The pleasure is all mine, Nuria."

Nuria's cheeks flushed with a mixture of awe and self-consciousness. She wondered how she could ever belong in a world where beauty and grace seemed to be the norm.

Nevertheless, she mustered the courage to meet Prince Adonis's gaze, determined to prove herself worthy.

As Lady Seraphina excused herself, leaving Nuria alone with Prince Adonis, she felt a flutter of uncertainty.

Her hands trembled slightly as she attempted to compose herself, acutely aware of the contrast between her rough appearance and the prince's impeccable elegance.