Serene Night…!
It was midnight when the carriage reached the mansion. The night sky was a deep, inky blue, dotted with stars that shimmered like tiny diamonds. The moon hung low, casting a silvery glow over the expansive Rodewall Domain. The mansion itself was a grand structure, with towering spires and intricate stonework, its windows aglow with the soft light from within. The surrounding grounds were lush, filled with meticulously maintained gardens that were now cloaked in shadows.
Ram was the one driving the carriage. Despite being a demon and having reserves of energy beyond that of an ordinary human, she was feeling slightly exhausted from the long journey. The cool night air was a welcome relief as it brushed against her skin, carrying the faint scent of blooming night flowers.
"Emilia-sama, we're here," Ram called out, her voice soft yet clear.
There was no response from inside the carriage. Ram slid open the small window between the driver's seat and the interior. She saw Emilia asleep, her silver hair cascading around her like a halo.
With a gentle smile, Ram climbed down from the driver's seat, her shoes crunching softly on the gravel path. She walked around to the carriage door and opened it carefully, trying not to disturb the sleeping girl. She was about to lift Emilia into her arms when she noticed Rem approaching from the mansion.
Rem had been waiting at the entrance, her eyes scanning the path for any sign of the carriage. The night was quiet, the only sounds being the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze and the distant calls of nocturnal creatures. As soon as she saw the carriage arrive, she hurried over, her heart lifting at the sight of her sister.
"Nee-sama, how was the journey?" Rem greeted her warmly, her voice carrying a note of concern. "Why are you so late?"
Ram sighed lightly. "Emilia-sama lost her insignia. We spent the entire day searching for it."
Rem's eyes widened slightly. "That must have been stressful. You look exhausted. You should rest now, Ram. I'll take Emilia-sama inside."
Ram nodded, grateful for her sister's consideration. "Thank you, Rem." She handed over the responsibility and headed towards the mansion, the weight of the day's events finally starting to wear on her.
Rem turned her attention to Emilia, who was still fast asleep. She carefully lifted her into her arms, surprised at how heavy the girl was. Despite the weight, there was something undeniably cute about her, her delicate features softened in sleep.
As Rem started towards the mansion, she noticed something glistening at the corner of Emilia's eyes. She paused, her curiosity piqued. Gently, she touched the dampness and realized they were tears.
"Why is Emilia-sama crying?" Rem wondered aloud, her heart aching for the girl she admired so much.
"It…wasn't me-e… it wasn't… my fault…" Emilia muttered in her sleep, her voice barely above a whisper but filled with anguish.
Rem's heart clenched at the words. She held Emilia closer, whispering softly, "It's okay, Emilia-sama. You're safe now."
The mansion loomed ahead, its grandeur softened by the night. Rem entered the warm, welcoming foyer, her footsteps echoing softly against the polished marble floors. She moved quietly through the dimly lit hallways, the soft glow of wall sconces guiding her way.
Reaching Emilia's room, Rem gently laid her down on the plush bed. She pulled a blanket over her and brushed a strand of silver hair from Emilia's forehead. The room was filled with the soothing scent of lavender, which helped calm Rem's own nerves as well.
"Rest well, Emilia-sama," she whispered, her voice filled with a mix of tenderness and determination. "We'll protect you. I promise."
As Rem turned to leave, she couldn't shake the image of Emilia's tear-streaked face from her mind. What had caused such pain? She resolved to find out and do whatever it took to help Emilia through it.
The night outside continued to be serene_ opposite to the turmoil in Emilia's dreams…
TBC