Roux then escorted Celestine out of the pavilion, and into her official residence.
It was a room that was decorated with red and gold ornaments, her favorite colors. Looking around, she saw a sheathed sword, hanging in the wall, and in the other, a pair of gold-colored fans. Somehow, Roux knew where and when to try and reach out to her, starting with her likes and dislikes.
But this was not enough for her to forgive him. She knows that he is trying to coax her into forgiving him and that is not gonna be happening, not anytime soon. However, she did appreciate him trying, thus, it was only natural for her to thank him. "Thank you, Roux." She said, and with that, the man's eyes lit up, he was happy, he thought that finally, her beloved has started to notice his efforts.
"Don't mention it, Celestine. I have prepared all of this, just for you." He said, smiling. Celestine did not respond. His words, ticking into her mind. She can only think that he must have devised his plan long ago, as she can faintly remember that he has been visiting the house for quite a time, just as her sister said.
"I'll leave you here for now. You can enjoy as much as you want. There's a servant designated just for you, she's right by the door, just call out to her." Roux said, Celestine, nodded in return.
As he left the room, Celestine went ahead and observed her room. It was indeed extravagant. She proceeded to another room extension and figured out that it was actually a room full of various types of clothing, ranging from her favorite colors and attires.
Sighing, she went back to the main room and flopped herself in the bed.
Although she was now presented with all of this luxurious life, this was not what she wanted at all. She wanted to be free, she wanted to be happy, to join hands with her family, and live with them once more.
Now that she is alone in this quiet room, she deeply regrets the actions that she has shown towards her family. It was, after all, uncertain if she will still be granted the chance to see them again, knowing that they are banished from entering the city.
"I'm so stupid." Celestine uttered, lightly slapping herself.
She got up, knowing that dwelling in self-despair will bring her nothing. Instead, by Roux's words, she should try and enjoy. The moment has even presented itself.
She reached towards the sword that was hanged up on the wall, she unsheathed it and examined its blade. "Perfect." She remarked, smiling.
She then proceeded to leave towards the entrance of her room, upon opening it, a servant, most probably the same as her age appeared, seemingly guarding the room.
"Young Mistress, where are you going?" The servant said, lowering her head.
Once again, Celestine felt awkward hearing the servant address her like that. She reached towards the chin of the servant, and gently raised her head, for their eyes to meet.
Celestine looked at the lady, smiling. "Just call me Celestine, what's your name?" She asked.
The lady looked at her like she has grown two heads. Suddenly, she backed off, further lowering her head.
"No, that can't be, Young Mistress. I am nothing but a servant, and you are my Master." She said, earning a sigh from Celestine.
"Well then, if I am your Master, I order you to call me Celestine. Now, will you tell me your name?" Celestine said, further insisting.
The servant looked at her hesitatingly. It seemed like she really wasn't allowed to call her by her name, however, since she ordered it, the servant was now torn.
Celestine smiled charmingly, giving her a reassuring smile.
"I-I am called, Meira, Young- I mean, Celestine." She said, though stuttering, finally giving in. Looking at the beaming face of her master, she smiled in return, she was grateful to have such a kind master, unlike the other concubines of the Governor who feels and acts as if they own everything in the world.
"Well then, Meira, I would like to practice my swordsmanship in the meantime. Can you escort me to an open area?" Celestine said, showing her sword.
Meira nodded, walking ahead of her to show her the way towards the vast garden.
The sun was shining brilliantly. The wind brought upon a little whistle, blowing through the air.
As Celestine practiced her swordsmanship, because of her naturally light body, in some instances, she seemed like flying, her robe fluttering through the air, making her seem like a bird. At some times, she even incorporated her dancing to her unique sword skills.
With her forehead, glistening with sweat, Celestine continued to flutter her body, with her sword following through her each command.
Even though she was doing the act that she liked the most, Celestine was not contented. She knew that right now, she had no other choice but to live her life as a caged bird, but somewhere in her mind and heart, she knew, a time will soon come, a time for her to live freely.
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