As the days went by, Maxi began to wonder if there was even a reason for her to continue learning magic. What would she do with defensive wards, or the ability to summon fire or wind, when she was never allowed to leave Calypse Castle?
Ever since starting magic lessons, she had harbored a dream of becoming a great sorceress who braved perils by Riftan’s side. Now, that dream lay shattered. Riftan would never allow her to join him on dangerous adventures. The realization was isolating, but there was no one she could talk to about it. Though the servants were courteous, Maxi did not think it appropriate for her to confide in them. Riftan was always busy, and, in a way, he was the last person she wanted to reveal such feelings to. The only thing she could do was to endure the solitude and resolutely go about her daily routines.
“Are you feeling unwell, my lady? You have not been eating well,” Ludis asked cautiously when she noticed Maxi picking at her late lunch.
Maxi shook her head and forced a smile. It was true that she was fatigued and did not have an appetite, but that was from waiting up most nights for Riftan.
“You look tired, my lady. Might I suggest a nap?”
“Th-Thank you for worrying…but I’m expecting the spice peddler l-later in the afternoon.”
“Then, shall I bring your supper to your chambers so you can rest early?”
Maxi shook her head. “I-It would not do for me to dine in my chambers…wh-when we have guests. I-It would be unbecoming behavior from the lady of the castle.”
“I am sure the guests would understand if they hear that you are not feeling—”
“I-I really am all right,” Maxi said, cutting Ludis off. The maidservant’s continued insistence was beginning to annoy her.
Ludis pressed her lips together, and an awkward silence fell over the room. Maxi nibbled on a piece of bread and forced the food down her throat. Her body did feel heavy and tired, but it was obvious that she would only drown herself in self-deprecating thoughts if she were to stay in bed for the rest of the day.
Believing that keeping herself busy would be better for her state of mind, Maxi lowered her food, got out of bed, and put on her cloak. She mused that she might as well inspect the kitchen before meeting the peddler.
“There you are, my lady!” Rodrigo rushed toward her as she stepped out into the corridor, his face ashen.
“D-Did something happen?”
“The construction site—we have received word that workers have been attacked by monsters. They have requested reinforcement and aid.”
Blood drained from Maxi’s face. Riftan was supposed to be at the construction site, so if such a disaster had arisen even with him present, it meant that they were dealing with something truly terrifying.
Although she was momentarily filled with fear, Maxi pushed it down and regained her composure. She had dealt with a monster attack last winter. What instructions hadRuth given her back then? “P-Prepare…a-all the necessary materials…and load them onto a wagon immediately. A cauldron, firewood…bowls, c-clean cloth, thread, needles, herbs…and a-anything else that might be needed!”
“Yes, my lady.”
“H-Have a carriage ready, a-and prepare sheets and blankets j-just in case. Wh-Where is the m-messenger?”
“He is at the training grounds preparing the sentries.”
“I-I would like to h-hear the report from him directly. W-wait for me at the castle entrance with the carriage.”
Rodrigo nodded and rushed down the stairs. Maxi followed him and scurried outside. Ruth was not here, so this was up to her. Maxi wiped her sweaty palms on her skirt as she quickly made her way through the garden. Beyond the gate, sentries were already loading three wagons. She rushed over.
“Wh-Where is the messenger…who brought the n-news of the attack?”
A middle-aged soldier in a helmet stepped forward. “It is I, my lady. I was sent by Sir Ursuline to bring back aid.”
Maxi swallowed hard. “I-Is the situation grave? H-How many are hurt?”
“About twenty workers and fifteen or so of the sentries. With the battle still raging, the sorcerers can only tend to the critically wounded….”
Maxi’s hands turned cold at the news. The fighting was not over yet?
“I-Is his lordship…u-unharmed?”
“I cannot say for certain, my lady, but knowing our liege, I am sure he is well.”
The soldier’s certainty helped Maxi regain a bit of composure. “I-I understand. Please…make haste.”
