The and The master

Chapter Two - The **** and The Master

What would take a group of men days or maybe even weeks to do was happening before the Princess's eyes in seconds or minutes. Princess Alexandra's bed chamber echoed her vibrant personality, seamlessly blending opulence with a touch of whimsy. The walls might be adorned with tapestries depicting enchanted forests, mythical creatures, and vibrant landscapes that fuel her curiosity. A bookshelf filled with volumes on fauna, history, and adventure would stand proudly, revealing her thirst for knowledge.

Her grand canopy bed, draped in silk and adorned with gemstone-encrusted pillows, was the focal point. The room is illuminated by glowing crystals suspended from the ceiling, casting a soft, enchanting radiance. A vanity table covered in an array of finely crafted jewelry boxes showcases her love for intricate accessories.

The Princess's youthful spirit is reflected in playful details, such as a collection of fairy figurines or a whimsical mirror framed with delicate vines. Despite the lavish surroundings, there is an air of innocence, perhaps captured by a display of handpicked wildflowers in crystal vases.

In the corner, a treasure chest sits housing her collection of precious gems and jewelry, each holding a story of discovery. The furniture, while elegant, also bears a touch of practicality to accommodate her active imagination. A comfortable reading nook with plush cushions and a window overlooking the castle for whenever she missed home. The color palette blends regal tones with youthful hues, creating a harmonious atmosphere.

Princess Alexandra joyfully twirled in the center of her room, then collapsed onto her bed, momentarily forgetting her purpose. Her delighted squeal echoed like a child reveling in her newfound surroundings.

"Now, it's your turn," Olorun said to Princess Elenor, turning to address Princess Alexandra. "After we finish with Princess Elenor's room, we'll return to the main floor. There's much I need to explain to both of you. Just because your father, the king, now has access to some of my power doesn't mean he can wield it effortlessly. Mastery requires learning and practice." With those words, Olorun turned and strode back into the stone hallway.

"Now, Princess, take my hand and mold your living space." He extended his hand to the older sister, who, with a mixture of anticipation and determination, slowly but firmly grasped it.

The chamber's walls are adorned with tapestries depicting scenes of heroic battles or symbols of ancient virtues, contributing to the ambiance of honor and valor. A small, discreet writing desk near a tall window could be a secluded space where the Princess reflects on her responsibilities and plans for the kingdom.

A touch of nature is introduced through potted plants, showcasing her connection to the land. A private armory nook, concealed behind an elegant tapestry, housing a collection of swords, shields, and armor, with each piece meticulously maintained. The flicker of candlelight or soft magical illumination enhances the ambiance, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere despite the reserved nature of the Princess.

In the corner, a cozy reading nook with a plush chair and a well-stocked bookshelf would be the perfect retreat for her moments of solitude, reflecting her appreciation for wisdom and knowledge. Overall, the bed chamber is a harmonious blend of strength, wisdom, and sophistication, a true reflection of the Princess's multifaceted personality.

Upon the rooms' completion, Olorun graciously ushered the two princesses into the resplendent living room adorning the 9th floor. He extended a courteous invitation there, gesturing towards an exquisitely opulent couch that bespoke luxury in every detail, inviting Princesses Alexandra and Elenor to recline in regal comfort.

"First and foremost, feel entirely at ease, much like your home in the castle. I have no doubt there are places you're accustomed to avoiding and rules to uphold, and that remains unchanged here," he declared, his words settling over the attentive royals.

"Firstly, should you desire to venture anywhere, the first floor serves as a gateway to any destination of your choosing. You are not confined; travel freely as you please, yet it is imperative to be accompanied by elementals, especially the wind elementals who can teleport and disperse into the air, making it easier for them to move and protect you. However, we shall delve into the intricacies of this matter at another opportune moment."

Elenor blinked in confusion before voicing her query, "Wait, I thought we had to remain here per the deal? What's this now about being free to go..."

"You do have to remain here; you'll be living in this tower. However, it doesn't mean you can't explore beyond its walls occasionally. The key is transparency—just let me know; bring along an elemental companion, particularly the wind elemental with teleportation abilities. However, I must insist on a three-hour limit every 3-4 days outside, just to be safe," he explained, offering a measured compromise.

Princess Alexandra sought clarification, "Does that mean Elenor can return to the castle?"

Olorun responded, "No, stepping onto castle grounds triggers the geas as an attempt to return home. However, entering the capital city is permissible, though I'd advise against venturing beyond the noble district."

"But let's proceed," he declared, his eyes aglow with a luminous azure energy. As the brilliance intensified, swirling stars encapsulated them, dissipating only when they found themselves standing within the Astral Nexus.

"As I stated, this is the Astral Nexus, our gateway to the world." He points to the pedestal with the nonstop flow of arcane energy. "That's the leyline and the anchor of the realm. With it, I can speed up or slow down time here. I can even make time stop, affecting individuals. For example, I can make it so a hundred days in here is just one day to the outside world and vice versa. I advise you two not to mess with it outside of calling doorways for your safety."

The two princesses made no effort to conceal their astonishment at the revelation.

"Now, on to the next floor!" Olorun exclaimed, snapping his fingers. The blue energy enveloped them once again. As it receded, they found themselves standing outside on a sunlit day, surrounded by vibrant flora.

"Welcome to the Enchanted Garden, the second floor of the tower. This level is enchantingly divided into regions, each mimicking the atmosphere and environment of different parts of the planet. I can grow regional plants here, whether for alchemy or food," Olorun explained, gesturing expansively around them.

Princess Alexandra squealed with delight, resembling a little girl, as she hurried to the nearest plant, taking in its scent. "This place is absolutely amazing!" she exclaimed. The enchanted garden is a living tapestry of magic. Flora coalesce in a harmonious dance of vibrant colors and ethereal beauty in this realm. As Princess Alexandra stepped through the ornate archway, a soft, melodious hum filled the air, emanating from the enchanted blooms that swayed in a gentle, unseen breeze.

Many flowers seem to possess a sentient awareness, their petals unfolding and closing in rhythm with the ambient magic that permeates the air. Each blossom boasts a dazzling array of hues, casting a luminous glow that bathes the entire garden in a soft, enchanting light.

Butterflies, their wings adorned with patterns that mirror constellations, circle around the second princess, one gently landing on her nose, causing a giggle before flitting gracefully from her nose to flower to flower. Birds of fantastical plumage sing sweet melodies from branches that appear to sway in response to the garden's arcane heartbeat.

"Glad to hear, Princess. You're free to come here whenever you like," Olorun said before teleporting them to the next floor.

"Welcome to the Beastial Menagerie, the third floor of the tower. It's similar to the Enchanted Garden, except it's reserved for formidable beasts. This place can be a bit more dangerous, and you may want to exercise caution, Princess," he cautioned. Still, this time, the one who was enchanted was not the second princess but the first.

Princess Elenor looked onto the third floor as a place of primal beauty and untamed wonders. It was a sanctuary for mythical creatures and magical beasts, even creatures that could only be found in the dead lands.

She looked at the massive enclosures, each meticulously designed to replicate diverse ecosystems, house creatures of awe-inspiring size and majesty. The habitats range from lush, mist-covered jungles to arid deserts shimmering with heat, providing environments that cater to the unique needs of each magical being.

"How.. just how did you create this? Princess Elenor asked, turning from the massive floor to Olorun.

"That is a story for another time." He said, and with a snap of his fingers, they were gone again.

"Welcome to the kitchen," Olorun said. "Tell me, can you smell it? The air is alive with tantalizing aromas that promise an exquisite journey for the taste buds. And can you see it? The utensils themselves are enchanted! Pots will stir themselves, knives will slice and dice, so don't hesitate to visit if you are hungry." With a grin, he claps his hands, and they are teleported again.

"And onto the fifth floor." He said, snapping his fingers, teleporting them once again. They stood center stage in a realm where magic intertwines seamlessly with performance art. As the two princesses step forward, the air shimmers with an otherworldly glow, casting a dreamlike ambiance. The theater seems to respond to its anticipation, adjusting its appearance to match the essence of the upcoming performance.

The seating is plush and comfortable, adorned with intricate designs that seem to shift and dance with a touch of magic. As the lights dim, an array of enchanted orbs takes over, casting a soft, ethereal glow that highlights the stage.

The stage itself is a canvas for magical expressions. Illusions and holographic displays unfold, creating immersive and captivating scenes. The backdrop transforms effortlessly, transporting the audience to fantastical realms with each act. Music resonates from invisible sources, filling the theater with melodious tunes that evoke familiar and otherworldly emotions.

Puppetry takes on a life of its own, with enchanted marionettes moving with precision and grace around the three. These magical beings tell stories beyond the limitations of traditional puppetry, captivating the princesses, specifically Alexandra, with their intricate movements and expressive gestures.

"If you ever find yourself bored, you can always come here and check what the theater has to offer. It might just surprise you!" He smiled before teleporting them to the next floor.

"And welcome to floor seven! The Omniscient Library!" The sorcerer said as they opened its doors and stepped inside. The Omniscient Library stands as a majestic repository of knowledge, a sanctuary where the accumulated wisdom of centuries converges into a labyrinthine expanse of shelves and ancient tomes. As Olorun leads them through its grand archway, the air is imbued with a scent that carries the whispers of countless pages and the promise of untold stories.

Both sisters seemed drawn to the Tall, spiraling bookshelves, seemingly endless, stretch towards a vaulted ceiling adorned with intricate celestial patterns. Illuminated by soft, ambient light, the library exudes an aura of timeless wisdom. The aisles form a mesmerizing maze, inviting exploration into the vast depths of human understanding. Yet their curiosity was different; the older sister's interest was drawn to books of honor, duty, and swordsmanship, while the younger sister's books of adventure, romance, and wonder.

Each shelf is laden with books and scrolls, some bound in rich leather, others adorned with gilded runes. Dust motes dance in the air as you traverse the aisles, and the gentle rustle of pages echoes through the hallowed space. The library's guardian, an ethereal figure, floats between the shelves, its eyes reflecting the knowledge of the ages.

As they continued walking, Princess Elenor abruptly halted, "Wait, floor seven? What happened to the sixth?" she inquired suspiciously.

"Off-limits, along with floors eight and ten. Those are very dangerous floors," he said, his demeanor adorned with a cryptic smile.

"Off-limits..." Princess Alexandra echoed, her curiosity now fully awakened.

"Yes, while I've opened most of my home to you, under no circumstance should you attempt to enter those rooms. And with that, the tour of the inside of the tower concludes. I have a meeting with a certain someone. Would you like to join me?" he added just before teleporting all three of them back to the first floor.

"No," said the first princess, suspicious of the sorcerer once again.

"Yes!" exclaimed the second princess, almost jumping for joy.

The sorcerer's hand swept through the air, conjuring a mysterious door on the wall. "Follow me!" he commanded, shrouded in a dark hood, cowl, and an all-white mask.

Exiting through the enchanted portal, they found themselves at the entrance of a grand estate. Marquess Cedric Fairchild and Lady Rosalind Fairchild observed a **** trader attempting to sell a group of captives.

Lady Rosalind, appearing visibly disinterested, stood behind her father, nonchalantly inspecting her nails. Adorned in an opulent, sleeveless black dress with a high leg slit and a deep V-neck, revealing an ample amount of cleavage, drawing the eyes of many of the **** traders' guards when no one is looking.

"Wait, I know this place!" Princess Elenor said, being the first to gain the attention of everyone but the slaves who dared not to look up.

"What's going on here!" Princess Alexandra called out; the second princess had never been to the **** markets or seen an actual **** trade in person. While slavery, in general, was frowned upon in the kingdom of Melianor, it was not outright illegal outside of the major cities, especially the royal castle and capital city. Some nobles made use of them in homes further away from the capital city.

"Hmm, Lord Olorun, you've arrived, and with princesses?" Lord Cedric inquired.

At the mention of Olorun's name, Lady Rosalind's face lit up. Ignoring the lingering gazes of men around her, she hastened towards Olorun, her bosom swaying with each purposeful step.

"Darling Olo, you're finally here!" Lady Rosalind greeted in a sultry voice, wrapping her arms around his and resting her head on his shoulder. "Can we please escape this dreary place for somewhere more romantic?" she implored, wearing a puppy dog expression.

"Rosalind, release him. He's here for business, not to cater to your whims," the Marquess intervened, prompting his daughter to hold Olorun even tighter.

"But, Father, if I let go of my future husband now, someone else might snatch him away!" Lady Rosalind stubbornly retorted.

Olorun chuckled, tapping her hand gently. "I'll spend time with you later."

"Do you promise?" she asked with a frown.

"I promise, and have I ever broken a promise to you?" he reassured her.

After a brief hesitation, she released the sorcerer. "Fine, but you better make it grand!" she demanded, walking away but pausing to look back. "And why are the two princesses with you?" she added, finally acknowledging them, striking a nerve with Princess Elenor.

"Since when does the daughter of a Marquess question who a princess is with or why?" Princess Elenor retorted, staring her down.

"Enough, everyone," Olorun declared, striding over to Lord Cedric.

"We were just about to start, Lord Olorun," Lord Cedric remarked, turning back to the **** trader.

"Now, how much for all the slaves you brought today?" the Marquess inquired, redirecting his attention to the trade at hand.

Olorun surveyed the shipment of slaves—twenty in total, bearing the scars of obedience training. The majority were women: four beast folk, two adult women, one little girl, and one adult male. Surprisingly, there was a lone female elf. Among the humans, there were seven—four females spanning from teens to middle age, two young boys, and one adult male. Additionally, there were two female goblins, two female tieflings, two male orcs, one female fairy, and three indeterminate beings.

"Considering the diversity among this batch, including some rare races, how about we settle at 75 gold pieces?" the **** trader suggested, downplaying the price.

"Are you..." the Marquess began, but Olorun placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder before he could finish, nodding subtly.

With a sigh, the Marquess conceded to the proposed price. After the transaction concluded and the traders departed, Olorun stepped forward.

"Welcome, everyone, to the territory of Marquess Cedric Fairchild. I understand many of you have endured immense pain. Still, being here signifies an improvement in your lives," he joyfully announced.

"While the Marquess purchased you, the truth is, you're here at my command. We have an arrangement you need not know the details of, but each of you plays a part."

The two princesses, Elenor and Alexandra, listened attentively. Elenor noted every detail, gathering information for potential future use. At the same time, Alexandra couldn't help but feel empathy for the slaves, yearning to help despite her limitations.

"Here's your situation: under my request, you were bought and will work for the Marquess. Those with specific skills, speak up soon; the more talents you possess, the better your arrangement. At the very least, you'll receive an average wage as household staff. After five years, you'll be freed with the choice to continue employment, seek relocation, or embrace complete freedom," Olorun explained, gesturing towards a tall maid who appeared behind him.

Half of the slaves and the princesses were shocked and disbelieving, suspecting a cruel joke. Olorun approached a female human ****.

"For now, I'll use magic to heal your wounds and cure any illnesses," he declared, initiating a spell that gradually mended their damaged, scarred, and ailing bodies.

Once finished healing the group entirely, Olorun stepped back and surveyed the fully restored group. While physically, they all had been restored to their prime, mentally, they all still held the expressions of dogs in chains.

"Allow me to take over from here, sir." The tall maid said, no longer being a viewer and now looking to get started.

Having completed the healing process, Olorun withdrew, casting his gaze upon the now fully restored group. Physically rejuvenated, their bodies bore no trace of prior afflictions. However, the mental scars lingered, evident in expressions that mirrored dogs long held in chains.

"Sir, if you may permit, I'll take charge from here," the tall maid requested, transitioning from a passive observer to someone eager to initiate the next phase.

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A/N: hope you all enjoyed my writings so far and please dont forget that comments and critiques are welcome on all my stories.