The Extra's Reincarnation

I hesitated, unsure how to put my jumbled thoughts into words.

"It was... incredible," I said finally. "Like nothing I’ve ever seen before. But also kind of overwhelming, I guess."

She nodded understandingly, running a soothing hand through my hair.

"That’s perfectly normal, sweetheart. Aethel Academy is a very special place. But remember, you have plenty of time to figure out your path. There’s no need to feel pressured."

Her words eased some of the tension I’d been carrying since leaving the academy gates.

She always seemed to know just what to say to make me feel better.

Ehem...

Nivel cleared his throat, drawing our attention.

"Well, I hate to cut this reunion short, but Ezekiel and I should be heading back."

"Wait,"

My mom quickly stopped Nivel and Ezekiel from leaving.

"Since you both have some free time, why not stay at the estate from where I work?"

Nivel turned around, perplexed, and asked my mother, "Why?"

"Well," she explained, "The Marchioness hasn’t been feeling well lately and I’m concerned about all the nobles who keep visiting our household unannounced. They’ve been doing some really weird things. So I asked for her permission for you two to stay with us."

Nivel and Ezekiel exchanged a surprised look at my mother’s invitation.

"Are you sure that’s alright?" Nivel asked, his brow furrowed. "We wouldn’t want to impose..."

My mother waved off his concern with a smile.

"Nonsense. The Marchioness has already given her approval. And I’m sure Julian would love to have you both around a bit longer. Isn’t that right, sweetheart?"

More time with Ezekiel? I don’t even think I want to spend another second with that reckless bastard.

But after all... my mom’s really pushing it, and she doesn’t usually invite people like this. I guess I’ll just go with it.

"Yeah, sounds good. At least it won’t be boring in that place then."

I nodded eagerly with a smile.

"That sounds awesome! I’m in!"

Ezekiel grinned at that, practically bouncing on his heels.

"Well, I suppose a few more days couldn’t hurt. As long as we’re not putting anyone out."

Nivel still looked a bit hesitant, but seeing our enthusiasm, he relented with a chuckle.

"Not at all," my mother assured him. "In fact, having you there would be a great help. I’ve been worried about some of the recent visitors to the estate. They’ve been acting rather peculiarly."

That caught Nivel’s attention.

"Peculiarly how?"

"Well, it’s rather strange. These nobles, they always seem to arrive unannounced, at odd hours. And they’re particularly interested in the Marchioness’ health."

My mother’s expression turned serious, her voice lowering as she explained.

"They insist on being present during her meals, watching her every bite. It’s unsettling, to say the least. They claim it’s out of concern, but there’s something... off about their behavior."

I listened intently, feeling a chill run down my spine. I could’ve sworn this story sounded familiar.

"At first, I thought perhaps they were just being overly attentive," my mother went on, her brow furrowed with worry.

"But lately, I can’t shake this feeling of dread whenever they’re around. It’s as if... as if they’re waiting for something to happen."

"That does sound concerning. Have you noticed anything else unusual?"

My mother nodded, wringing her hands.

"Yes, actually. Whenever these nobles are present, I feel an overwhelming urge to stay by the Marchioness’s side. It’s almost like an instinct, as if some part of me knows she’s in danger when they’re around."

Nivel’s expression grew grave as he absorbed Erica’s words.

He exchanged a meaningful glance with Ezekiel, who had fallen uncharacteristically quiet.

"I see," Nivel said slowly, his voice low and measured. "This situation does indeed sound troubling. We would be remiss to ignore such suspicious behavior, especially when it concerns a noble of the Marchioness’s standing."

As he stroked his chin, he turned his head back to Erica.

"Before we proceed, I must ask - who is taking care of the Marchioness now? Is there someone you trust watching over her?"

Erica’s face brightened slightly, a relieved smile softening her worried features.

"Oh yes, my boss is with her right now. He’s the head servant of the household. His name is Aldric, and he’s been with the Marchioness for over twenty years. If there’s anyone I trust completely with her care, it’s him."

She paused, her brow furrowing slightly as she continued, "You see, Aldric has been overseeing the Marchioness’ meals personally ever since she fell ill. The doctor prescribed a very specific diet for her, and Aldric ensures that every dish follows those instructions to the letter."

Erica’s eyes took on a distant look, as if recalling the intricate details of her daily routine.

"As second in command, it’s my responsibility to double-check everything before it reaches the Marchioness. Aldric provides me with detailed lists of approved ingredients and preparation methods for each meal. I then inspect the kitchen, verify the ingredients, and watch over the cooking process to ensure nothing deviates from the doctor’s orders."

Her voice took on a note of pride as she described her role.

"It’s a delicate balance, you see. We have to ensure the Marchioness receives all the nutrients she needs while avoiding anything that might exacerbate her condition. Some days, it feels like we’re crafting potions rather than meals!"

My mother chuckled softly and I couldn’t help but feel bothered feeling like I knew this plot somewhere.

As we set off towards the Marchioness’ estate, I found myself remembering the layout of Aurean City.

You see, Aurean City is divided into several distinct districts.

We’re leaving the market district now and heading towards the noble quarter. The noble quarter is where most of the kingdom’s aristocracy resides.

But the really high-ranking nobles, like the Marchioness, often have their estates outside the city walls.

The lands just outside the walls are highly sought after, they’re close enough to the city for convenience, but far enough to offer privacy and space for massive estates.