The manner was exquisite, full of the most ornate pleasantries. With its sprawling grounds and grand architecture, it was what she had always dreamed of as a child. Yes it seemed that Astoria had all that she ever wanted: a manor, a handsome husband, and a high status. However she was in purgatory. The elaborate estate was cold and empty. The new bride walked through the corridors, mistress of all she surveyed. However what she rarely saw was her husband. He was barley home and when he was she was lucky if he uttered a few syllables to her.