"Cut off everything that hinders you on your path, be it family ties or toxic relationships; in the end, we live for ourselves." — Nero.
°°°
In the early morning, the hues of the world bloom anew as if each were a tiny flower reborn.
The main mansion of the Raizen estate bustled with activity as usual, knights standing guard at various entrances while servants hurried about, preparing for the new day.
The mansion itself was a stunning architectural marvel, a testament to the power and prestige of the Raizen family. It rose majestically against the backdrop of the sky, its grand façade adorned with intricate carvings and elegant columns that spoke of a bygone era of nobility. The walls, painted in deep shades of crimson and gold, glimmered in the morning light, reflecting an almost ethereal beauty.
Lush gardens surrounded the mansion, filled with vibrant flowers and manicured hedges that added to the estate's allure. The air was fragrant with blossoms, and the gentle sound of water from an ornate fountain in the courtyard added a tranquil touch to the bustling atmosphere.
Inside, the grand hall welcomed visitors with soaring ceilings and magnificent chandeliers that sparkled like stars. Rich tapestries hung on the walls, each telling a story of the family's illustrious past. The overall ambiance was one of majesty and intimidation, as if stepping into the mansion meant crossing into a realm of power and secrets, a place where only the worthy dared to tread. The atmosphere was thick with history, and one couldn't help but feel the weight of expectation as they moved through the halls of this formidable estate.
Two hours passed in flash, various member of the main family could be seen moving toward the dinning hall for the usual morning breakfast.
The dining hall of the Raizen estate was an impressive space that blended elegance with a sense of formality. Long, polished wooden tables stretched across the room, adorned with fine linen tablecloths and gleaming silverware that caught the light from the grand chandeliers overhead. Richly upholstered chairs surrounded the tables, offering comfort as family members gathered for their meals.
The walls were lined with intricate wood paneling, and large windows framed by heavy drapes allowed natural light to filter in, illuminating the room with a warm glow during breakfast and a softer ambiance during dinner. Tasteful artwork depicting the family's storied history adorned the walls, adding to the hall's grandeur.
At the far end of the room, a magnificent fireplace dominated the space, its mantel displaying ornate candelabras and family heirlooms. The scent of freshly prepared meals often filled the air, creating an inviting atmosphere where family members shared not only food but also stories and laughter, making the dining hall a central hub of connection within the estate.
The family head seat was bigger than the other seats, most seats were filled, they patiently waited for the patriarch to arrive, the second strongest man on the continent, rumors has it that he was on par with the emperor hailed as the King of Destruction.
The patriarch with long black hair , handsome youthful face arrived and sat, his face was devoid of any expression as he indicated to start eating, it was then it happened, he walked in.
°°°
A few minutes earlier.
Having left my house, I was dressed in casual denim jeans and a black top, leisurely strolling toward the main mansion with my hands in my pockets. My eyes were closed, but that didn't hinder my ability to perceive my surroundings; I occasionally opened them. As I made my way to the main mansion, I encountered many servants who hurried past upon noticing my presence, treating me as if I were invisible, though it didn't matter to me.
I continued walking with my head held high until I reached the main entrance. The guards there wanted to verify my identity, but upon seeing me, they frowned, unable to hide their disgust as they let me pass. Once inside the mansion, I walked directly to the dining hall, guided by the head maid—a gray-haired woman with a few wrinkles etched into her face, a testament to her advanced age. She appeared defenseless, but I knew better; I couldn't defeat her. Though she seemed harmless, that was merely a façade. She was a powerful warrior. Not only did a maid need to serve her master, but she also had to be capable of protecting him in any unexpected situation. This was why the maids of the Raizen household were trained, most of them for covert operations, raised as assassins.
I digress. Following the head maid, we arrived before giant oak doors carved with the family symbol—a lightning bolt crossed by two swords.
"After you, young master," she said with an impassive expression, the only one to address me as such.
Nodding, I stepped inside, feeling all eyes on me except for the family head.
The first lady of the house, Elreth, Barak's mother; the second lady, Elsa, and Finn's mother; and the third lady, the mother of the youngest, were all present.
Of course, their children were there as well, and none of those gazes were kind. Some displayed blatant disgust, others contempt, and a few looked at me as if they wished I would simply vanish from their sight.
"Greetings, family," I said, cupping my right hand around my chest and making a small bow—no need for excessive greetings.
Azariah Raizen finally raised his eyes, and his golden gaze landed on me, followed by an intense pressure. I swear I could hear small sounds of lightning; the space around us trembled, reality warping under his power.
'Strong.' I bit my lip, struggling to endure the pressure.
"So what do you want to say to me, requesting an audience?"
The pressure intensified, and I did my best to endure it as I raised my head, meeting those emotionless eyes, wondering if he had ever loved me or my mother. I shook my head to discard those thoughts; it was unlike me to let emotions govern my actions. It seemed I wasn't as perfect at controlling my feelings as I had thought.
Time to act, to accomplish what I've come to do.