Sunlight filtered through the trees, casting playful shadows that danced across the room. Whimsical tapestries depicting prancing rabbits and curious deer adorned the cool stone walls, a stark contrast to the warmth radiating from the ornately carved wooden cradle in the centre. Crimson velvet drapes, lined with luxuriously soft fur, whispered promises of comfort. A sturdy chair, its high back and cushioned seat a silent invitation to rest, sat beside the cradle. A cheerful rug, woven in a vibrant array of colors, resisted the chill of the stone floor.
A frown creased Alden's brow as a particularly bright ray pierced his eyelids. He instinctively turned away, burrowing deeper into the plush comfort. However, the murmur of voices – his mother's gentle lilt punctuated by another's lower tones – piqued his curiosity. Unable to resist any longer, he cracked open an eye.
Mary stood there, her hair catching the sunlight like spun gold. She conversed with Olivia, a kind-faced woman whose silvering hair spoke of a life well-lived. Mary's gaze darted towards him, and a radiant smile bloomed on her face.
"My little man is awake!" Mary exclaimed, her voice filled with a love that resonated deep within Alden. She leaned down and kissed his forehead gently.
"Little man" – was just one of the many names she used for him. Despite his best efforts to act his age, his old mind sometimes betrayed him, leading to outcomes that earned him these playful titles.
"Olivia," Mary said, turning to the maid, "Prepare Alden's clothes. Today, he will explore our estate for the first time. Make sure everything is pristine."
A jolt of excitement shot through Alden. Two years. Two long years confined within the castle walls, and finally, he was venturing out! He wiggled with anticipation, a wide grin splitting his face.
Olivia chuckled and hurried after him as he attempted a wobbly walk towards the privy chambers. In her late fifties, she exuded a strength and vitality that belied her age. Her family had served House Silverfield for generations, and her unwavering care often reminded him of his grandmother, a cherished memory tinged with a deep ache.
"Up you go, young master," Olivia said, her voice warm as she helped him into a sky-blue tunic. Her strong arms then lifted him onto a chair as she expertly fastened his leather boots. Alden returned her smile, silently thanking her for her constant presence.
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"Breakfast awaits, young master," Olivia announced, gently lifting him.
Stepping out of the nursery, cool flagstones met his boots, a refreshing contrast to the plush rug. The dimly lit corridor stretched before them, punctuated by a sharp turn that revealed a worn staircase of aged oak. Olivia, however, bypassed it, continuing down the corridor until a grand hall came into view. The Hall was a magnificent space dominated by a massive oak table. A roaring fire crackled merrily beneath the Baron's sigil, casting a warm glow on the room.
His family, all smiles and excited, turned towards him as he entered. Augustus, his older brother, bounced with barely contained energy, rushing eagerly to take him from Olivia.
"Now that everyone is here," boomed Frederick, his father, gesturing for them all to be seated, "let us begin breakfast."
Olivia took her place beside Alden, patiently spoon-feeding him his porridge. He stole glances at the other plates laden with steaming meat, fluffy omelets, and crusty bread. A yearning for something more substantial gnawed at him. Once a novelty, porridge had become a monotonous staple. He'd thrown tantrums in the past, demanding a share of the adult meals, but today was different. Today, the promise of adventure overshadowed his rumbling stomach.
"Today," Frederick announced, his voice filled with pride. "We embark on an inspection of our lands. Alden will get his first glimpse of the world beyond the castle walls. "Augustus, see that he stays safe and has a good time."
Augustus, his attention momentarily diverted from his breakfast, nodded eagerly, already lost in the daydream of playing protector. Alden, however, couldn't help but steal another longing glance at Augustus' plate. The thought of creating a scene flickered through his mind, but he resolutely squashed it. Today was a day for exploration, not tantrums.
The family continued their breakfast in comfortable silence. Frederick excused himself to oversee preparations, leaving Mary to whisper something to Augustus. Alden watched the exchange, a flicker of curiosity battling with the fading embers of his breakfast rebellion. Two years. Two years of confinement, a world shrunk to the dimensions of this castle. He'd gleaned fragments of a life beyond these walls through stolen whispers and fleeting glimpses from high windows. But today, the veil would finally lift. A nervous thrill danced in his stomach, countering the disappointment of porridge.
He fidgeted in his highchair, his gaze darting between the enticing remnants of his brother's breakfast and the grand double doors that led to the unknown. The promise of adventure, the chance to finally see the world he'd only heard about, was almost too much to bear. He clenched his tiny fists.
A warm hand settled on his shoulder. He looked up to meet Mary's gaze, her eyes sparkling with excitement that mirrored his own. She leaned down, softly murmuring.
"Today is a special day, my little man," she whispered. "A day to see the world outside."
"Is everyone ready? Then let's venture forth!" boomed Frederick.
The familiar warmth of his father's hand engulfed his own. With a final, longing glance at the remnants of breakfast, Alden allowed himself to be swept up in the current of excitement. The unknown lay before him, a vast and uncharted territory waiting to be explored.