Lucas opened his blue eyes as he woke slowly. The world was a soft blur, shapes and colors swimming lazily before his eyes. He blinked against the gentle morning light filtering through heavy drapes, struggling to make sense of where he was.
He turned his head slightly on the plush pillow, taking in the rich tapestries on the walls, the elegant furniture, and the opulent bed in which he lay.
Where am I?
Lucas sat up slowly, his muscles stiff from an unusually deep sleep. The room felt too large, too luxurious, and far removed from what he was used too all his life. His heart quickened as he tried to remember how he had come to be here.
It didn't take long for him to remember.
The events of the previous day flooded back in a rush: The long journey in the carriage, the estate of Devereaux Hall, the overwhelming introductions to his siblings.
The memory settled over him like a heavy shroud. This was his new home, the place he was supposed to belong now. Devereaux Hall. The name felt foreign on his tongue.
...How long did I sleep for?
He glanced towards the window, where the morning light streamed in, bright and golden. Panic flickered through him.
Morning? How could it be morning already?
He had only meant to take a short nap, to rest his weary body after the exhausting journey. He hadn’t intended to sleep through the night.
"I slept all night?" Lucas murmured to himself, his voice sounding small in the vast room. He stood up slowly, the room spinning for a moment as he adjusted to being awake.
He walked towards the window, the early morning light casting a soft, golden glow over everything it touched. It was still very early in the morning.
"Did they not come to wake me? I thought that maid, Clarisse, said she would come to my room later to fetch me, right?"
Lucas was a little confused, but most of all he was unsure what to do now. He was in a large room, his room, in an even larger, unfamiliar house.
He turned towards the door. He could see a golden bell there.
Walter told me to ring it if I needed anything...
Lucas walked over and picked it up, marveling at the intricate craftsmanship. He had no doubt this bell alone was more valuable than everything in his old home combined.
He gave it a gentle ring, its clear tone echoing softly through the room. He waited, expecting someone to appear. But the minutes passed in silence; no one came.
Maybe nobody is up yet? I suppose I could take this chance to explore the house myself.
At that moment, Lucas's stomach let out a rumbling sound.
I suppose I'm also hungry! Maybe I'll try to find the kitchen.
Lucas took a deep breath and stepped out into the corridor, feeling some hesitation.
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Lucas wandered through the hallways of Devereaux Hall, each step echoing on the polished floors. He passed by rooms filled with ornate furniture, walls lined with portraits of stern-faced ancestors, and tapestries depicting scenes of hunts and ballrooms.
As he turned a corner, lost in the sheer scale of the place, he collided with someone.
“Ow!” Came the sharp, surprised exclamation.
Lucas stumbled back, his blue eyes wide as he saw a boy about his around his age, only a little older, with tousled black hair and striking purple eyes. The boy looked at him with a mix of confusion and irritation.
“Watch where you’re going!” The boy snapped, brushing off his simple tunic. “Who are you anyway?!” He didn't look too happy.
Lucas blinked, taken aback by the boy’s tone. “I’m... Lucas. I just arrived yesterday.”
Recognition flashed across the boy’s face. “Oh! You’re the new master.” He said, his tone shifting slightly, though still holding a note of sarcasm. “I’m Devin, Clarisse’s younger brother. She’s the maid assigned to you, I believe.”
"Really? I suppose you two do have the same eye color..." Lucas pointed out. This boy had traits similar to Clarisse.
"I would had greeted you yesterday, but I was busy attending the horses."
"It's okay!" Lucas nodded, trying to regain his composure. “And I, uh, didn’t mean to bump into you.”
Devin shrugged, his expression softening a bit. “No harm done, I suppose. But why are you up so early anyway? Only the servants are up by this time usually."
"Only the servants? So Elliot and Isabella are still asleep?" Lucas asked, a little curious.
Devin gave a lazy nod. "Yes, Master Elliot, Lady Isabella, and Lady Seraphina are all still in bed."
Lady Seraphina? Who's that?
Devin continued, his tone practical. "Anyway, did you need something? This place is huge; it’s easy to get lost wandering around. Where were you headed?”
“I was trying to find the kitchen.” Lucas admitted, feeling a bit foolish. “I thought maybe I could find something to eat.”
A smirk tugged at the corner of Devin’s mouth. “You’re not supposed to go there, Master Lucas. The kitchen is no place for nobility."
Nobility? I suppose I am nobility now, but it's hard for me to think of myself as such.
"Besides, breakfast will be served soon. You should head back and freshen up. You’ve got the dust of the journey all over you."
Lucas glanced down at his clothes, realizing for the first time how disheveled he looked. “Oh, I didn’t think about that.” He felt a little embarrassed, though he did feel a little better that it was a boy his age who pointed this out. It would had been far more embarrassing if it was a girl who brought this to his attention.
"No worries." Devin said with a grin. "Come on, I’ll show you to the area where you can bathe. You can wash up there." Without waiting for Lucas's response, Devin started down the corridor, gesturing for Lucas to follow.
"Um...Aren't you busy, Devin? You don't need to show me around, you know..."
"My duties can wait a little, plus I don't feel comfortable leaving you on your own to wonder around, Master Lucas."
"Well, thanks, Devin."
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Devin led Lucas through the winding halls of Devereaux Hall, the grandeur of the mansion unfurling before them like a labyrinth of sort.
Soon, they reached a door not far from Lucas's room. It was less grand than some they had passed but still elaborately decorated with detailed carvings. Devin pushed it open, revealing a bathing chamber that was a marvel of old-world elegance.
High ceilings and walls adorned with intricate designs. Large windows allowed the morning light to flood in, casting a warm glow over the polished marble floors.
In the center of the room, a large, sunken bath made of pristine white marble awaited. The tub was surrounded by a low wall of carved stone, with steps leading down into the steaming water that flowed from ornate bronze taps shaped like lion heads.
Lucas stared in awe at the luxurious setting, so different from the simple washbasin he was used to back in his village, it was worlds apart. "This is... incredible." He murmured.
Devin grinned, clearly enjoying Lucas's reaction. "Welcome to the world of nobility, Master Lucas."
Lucas approached the tub, the warm steam rising up to greet him. “Do you always bathe like this?”
“Pretty much.” Devin said with a casual shrug. "This is where Master Elliot usually bathes, but from now on, you'll be sharing this space with him. It’s reserved exclusively for the sons of the Duke."
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Lucas glanced around, his awe mingling with curiosity. "So, the servants don’t use this bath?"
Devin's expression turned serious. "No, we’re not allowed to bathe here, of course. The servants have their own quarters and facilities."
Lucas nodded slowly, still absorbing the opulence around him. The idea of sharing such a luxurious space with Elliot felt surreal. He couldn’t imagine bathing in something so grand, let alone having it be a regular part of his routine.
Devin broke the silence with a light clap of his hands. "Now, let’s get you out of those travel clothes. You need to freshen up before breakfast." He began to roll up his sleeves, moving with the practiced ease of someone who had done this many times before.
Lucas's eyes widened in surprise and discomfort. "Wait, you’re going to bathe me?”
“Of course." Devin replied, giving him a mischievous smile. "It’s my job to make sure you’re properly taken care of."
Huh? What? Is he really serious?
Lucas hesitated, unused to the idea of someone else washing him. But before he could protest further, Devin was already helping him out of his clothes, his hands quick and efficient.
"Relax, Master Lucas." Devin said, his tone surprisingly gentle as he led Lucas into the warm, soothing water. "It’s just a bath."
Despite his initial discomfort, Lucas found the hot water incredibly soothing as it enveloped him. He sighed deeply, the warmth easing away the weariness from his long journey.
Devin worked quickly and methodically, scrubbing away the grime with a practiced hand. Although his manner still held a touch of sarcasm, there was a competence and care in his movements that reassured Lucas.
"...Devin, how old are you?" Lucas asked.
"I'm 14 years old." Devin answered, though he kept his focus on the task at hand, which is cleaning Lucas's body.
"Oh, so a year older than me."
He's only a year older than me, and yet I can already tell he's a very talented person.
“There, now you’re looking more like a proper young lord.” Devin said, stepping back to admire his work. “You’ll get used to it. Nobility isn’t just about fancy clothes and big houses. It’s also about looking the part.”
Lucas gave a small nod, still processing the whirlwind of changes in his life. "Thank you, Devin."
"Don't mention it." Devin replied with a grin. "Now, let's get you dried off and dressed. Breakfast will be ready soon, I imagine."
As Lucas stepped out of the bath, Devin handed him a soft, luxurious towel. He couldn’t help but feel a strange mix of gratitude and awkwardness. This was his new life, and it would take time to adjust to the many customs and expectations that came with being a part of the Devereaux family.
I hope no one sees me while I'm like this....we really should have brought a change of clothes before I went into the bath.
Devin led Lucas back to his room. Lucas felt a little comfortable coming back here after the new bath experience he went through.
Devin moved with purpose, opening a large wardrobe and pulling out a set of elegant clothes. "Let’s get you into something more suitable, Master Lucas."
Lucas shifted uncomfortably, the idea of being dressed by someone else still foreign to him. "I can dress myself, you know."
Devin paused, holding up a finely tailored shirt. "Sure, but do you know how to put on these clothes? Somehow I doubt it." He smirked, clearly enjoying the slight power play.
Lucas frowned, feeling a bit helpless as he eyed the complicated outfit. "I’ll figure it out."
I'm not a baby, gosh. My mother raised me to be able to count on myself. That's how it's always been, though I do wish she counted on me more...
Devin raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by Lucas’s stubbornness. "Would you rather have my sister help you then?" He teased, his tone dripping with mock innocence.
Lucas’s face flushed a deep red at the thought. "No! No, that’s not necessary!" He stammered, imagining the embarrassment of Clarisse dressing him.
"Alright then, let’s get started." Devin said, chuckling as he approached Lucas with the shirt. He moved with the efficiency of someone well-versed in such tasks, his hands deftly maneuvering the fabric.
Just as Lucas was adjusting to the idea of being dressed, the door to his room flew open. Clarisse rushed in, looking breathless and worried. "Master Lucas! Where have you—" Her words cut off abruptly as she took in the sight of Lucas standing shirtless, Devin in the process of dressing him.
"Ahhh!" Clarisse's cheeks turned a bright shade of crimson, and she quickly covered her eyes, spinning around to give Lucas some semblance of privacy. Lucas was equally embarrassed, while Devin had to do his best to hold back a laugh.
"Clarisse, weren't you the one who used to always tell me I must knock first before I enter?" Devin added in to the situation, amused.
"I’m so sorry!" Clarisse exclaimed, her voice muffled by her hands. "I woke up and you weren’t in your room. I was afraid something had happened when I couldn't find you!"
Lucas, still flustered, managed to respond, his cheeks still red. "It’s okay, Clarisse. Devin found me wandering around. I was looking for the kitchen."
Devin, thoroughly entertained by the situation, stepped back, letting Lucas pull on the shirt by himself. "I was just getting him ready for breakfast." He added helpfully.
Clarisse, still facing away, took a deep breath before lowering her hands. "I was so worried when I didn’t find you when I came here earlier" she said, her voice softening. "Did you ring the bell?"
"I did. Though it was so early, I'm not sure anyone was around to hear it." Lucas tried to explain.
"I see... And Devin, you should have came to me once you found the Master! Your sister here almost had a heart attack!"
Devin chuckled.
Lucas fumbled with the buttons on his shirt, feeling both guilty and touched by her concern. "I... I didn’t mean to worry you. I decided to look around after I woke up. As for last night, you didn’t come to wake me, right?"
Clarisse turned slightly, enough to glance at Lucas but still maintaining his modesty. "Last night, you were so deeply asleep." She explained. "I couldn’t bring myself to disturb you. You looked so peaceful, and after such a long journey, I thought you needed the rest."
Oh, so that's what happened. A part of me was worried they simply didn't care to come and get me. I really shouldn't assume the worst.
Devin clapped his hands, breaking the tender moment. "Well, now that the reunion between you two is over, let’s finish getting you dressed, Master Lucas. Breakfast will be served any minute now I imagine."
Lucas nodded, feeling a bit more at ease as he allowed Devin to help him into the rest of his clothes. Clarisse, now composed, took over the task of adjusting his collar and straightening his cuffs, her movements precise and gentle.
Devin and Clarisse, two siblings who serve the Devereaux family. I wonder what their story is, not that it's any of my business.
As the final touches were put in place, Lucas glanced at his reflection in the mirror. The young boy staring back at him looked every bit the part of a noble, dressed in fine clothes and standing in a grand room. But behind the polished exterior, he still felt like the same village boy.
"Ready for breakfast?" Devin asked, his tone more serious now.
Lucas took a deep breath and nodded. "Ready as I’ll ever be."
"Then follow me, Master Lucas." Clarisse spoke as she turned to look at Devin. "As for you, you can go back to your other duties now."
"Okayyyyyy." Devin sighed dramatically, rolling his eyes before making his exit.
"Let's go, Master Lucas."
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Clarisse guided Lucas through the halls of Devereaux Hall. They passed through corridors adorned with fine tapestries and elegant statues, each turn revealing more of the mansion’s splendor. Lucas’s eyes wandered over everything, trying to take it all in.
Will I ever get used to this place?
They finally arrived at the grand dining hall. Clarisse pushed open the double doors, revealing a room that was both majestic and inviting. A long table dominated the space, covered with a crisp, white tablecloth and set with gleaming silverware and porcelain plates. The morning light streamed in through tall windows, illuminating the room with a warm, golden glow.
Lucas’s attention was immediately drawn to Elliot and Isabella, who were already seated at the table. Elliot’s face lit up with a wide grin when he saw Lucas. "Good morning, Lucas!" He exclaimed, waving enthusiastically.
Isabella, sitting across from Elliot, offered a small, polite smile. "Good morning, Lucas." she said softly. She seemed friendly but reserved, maintaining a certain distance.
"Good morning." Lucas replied, smiling back at them. Despite his nerves, Elliot’s cheerful demeanor and wide smile helped him feel a bit more at ease.
Elliot didn't waste any time, leaning forward eagerly. "How did you sleep? Wasn't the bed just the softest thing ever? My bed makes me feel like I'm floating on clouds!"
"It..It was very comfortable, yes, um so comfortable I slept through the entire night."
Isabella nodded approvingly. "Oh, we noticed you didn't show up for dinner, but that's okay. It's good to know you got the rest you needed."
"I wanted to go wake you up, but Isabella said no." Elliot admitted, causing Isabella to turn to look at him.
"Why, of course I didn't let you!"
As they spoke, Clarisse guided Lucas to his seat at the table. He noticed that no one was sitting at the head of the table, indicating that the Duke was not present. Clarisse pulled out a chair for him to the left of Elliot, while Isabella sat directly across from her brother, facing him.
Lucas glanced at the table and saw that it was already laden with an assortment of breakfast foods: fresh bread, fruit, eggs, and various pastries. The sight and smell of the food made his stomach rumble, reminding him of how hungry he was.
I haven't eaten anything since yesterday...
However, he also noticed that there were four sets of plates, but only three were occupied. He wondered who the fourth place was set for, just as the doors to the dining hall opened again.
A beautiful woman with brown hair and piercing green eyes entered the room. She carried herself with an air of authority and grace. Her eyes, the same sparkling green as Elliot's and Isabella’s, swept over the room and landed on Lucas. Her expression was cold when she stared at him, causing Lucas to feel a chill run down his spine under her gaze.
W-Who's that?
The room seemed to hold its breath as she walked in, her eyes never leaving Lucas. She took her place at the table without a word, her cold demeanor making it clear she was not pleased by his presence.
"Good morning, Mother!" Elliot said cheerfully, oblivious to the tension that hung in the air.
Isabella gave a polite nod. "Good morning, Mother."
M-Mother?! I suppose it makes sense. So does this make her....
"Good morning you two." The lady responded, her voice as cold and measured as her expression. She turned her piercing gaze towards Lucas, scrutinizing him with a calm yet intense stare. "You must be Lucas, correct?"
"...Yes! T-That's right!" Lucas stammered, feeling a wave of nerves wash over him.
"I am Duchess Seraphina Evangeline von Devereaux, your father's wife." She stated, her words carrying an undeniable weight.
Lucas felt his heart drop.
So this is Lady Seraphina who Devin mentioned earlier...
Lucas swallowed hard, unsure of how to break the silence that had settled over the room. He shifted uncomfortably in his seat, feeling out of place under the Duchess's scrutinizing gaze.
Clarisse, sensing the discomfort, stepped in smoothly. "Master Lucas was just getting acquainted with the house this morning." She explained gently, looking between Lucas and the Duchess. "I apologize for any disturbance this may have caused."
Lady Seraphina’s eyes flicked back to Lucas, and for a moment, he thought he saw a flicker of something—disapproval, perhaps?—before her expression returned to its usual cold mask.
"Very well." she said quietly. "Let us begin breakfast."
Lucas felt a wave of relief as the Duchess turned her attention to the food. He glanced at Elliot, who gave him a big smile, and Isabella, who offered another small smile. He took a deep breath and picked up his fork. This was his new life now, no matter how daunting it seemed.