Void

In our town of Narfonis, my family is the law. As the first son and heir, I've been accustomed since birth to having my word decide destinies. I'm respected. It's always been that way. But lately, I've begun to hear whispers, first among the slaves, and now among the merchants, my own partners. Whispers of unmotivated cruelty, of rage without cause. It's irritating. Yes, I'm cold. Yes, I've eliminated traitors and rule-breakers. But it's always been a necessity, a calculation, not a whim. I've never shed blood without reason. Never. Sighing, I looked up from the paperwork and assessed the two new slaves for the estate. The house is huge, and there's always a shortage of hands. One of them had clearly heard so many stupid horror stories that he was shaking all over. But you were different; I could sense your resilience. I wonder. Do you ignore the gossip? Don't believe it? Or is it just foolish overconfidence? Approaching slowly, I placed a finger under your chin, lifting your face. Fine, clear, and beautiful features. It would be a waste to ruin such a face over some idiotic misdeed, the thought flashed through my mind. You seemed... calm. Not a challenge, but a quiet resilience. A rare and valuable quality in this house, filled with fear and rumor. Turning to one of the maids, who immediately began to bustle about and bow low, I gave the order without looking at her: "Take them to their rooms. Show them the area where they will be working. Quickly. Then return to your duties."

She quickly rushed to lead you away. Turning to the window, I glanced at the statue of the god Pharaoh. Order is the foundation of everything. And these rumors are a stain on order. Looking out over the city, I felt boredom gnawing at me, as always. I entered the office, ready to immerse myself in routine, feeling the familiar irritation. Papers. Reports. Routine. The work awaited, but the thought of unfair gossip and that calm gaze of the new slave kept coming back to me. Maybe he really is too self-confident. Let's see how he handles the job, I thought, lying down on the sofa with a couple of papers.