Chapter 190: Just a Demon?

After their encounter with Esmeralda, Ophelia and her friend retreated to the castle’s main sitting room. The space was a haven of calm compared to the tension that had preceded it. The maids, with their reserved manners, had served them hot tea, and guards stood watch around the perimeter, their presence almost ceremonial in its formality. The castle itself seemed to be transforming into something more opulent, a reflection of Nikolai’s increasing ease with his role. Ophelia, however, was more interested in solitude. She dismissed the maids and guards with a polite wave, eager for some private time with Esmeralda. As the room cleared, a quiet, contemplative atmosphere settled in. Esmeralda took a sip of her tea, her eyes heavy with weariness. “Lia,” she began, her voice soft. Ophelia looked up from her cup, concern etched on her face. “Esme? Why do you look so worried right after waking up?” “I was utterly exhausted when I awoke in the castle,” Esmeralda confessed, her voice carry