Chapter 16. Obsession

AURELIA

Commander Xerxes grew increasingly restless. His chest rose and fell heavily as he searched everywhere for his footwear. It was almost as if Julian were his obsession and Vesta was his dr*g. At that moment, I recalled Julian’s account of Vesta. He had said these words: "You must find out who she is and keep an eye on her."

While wearing his sandals, his gaze finally fell on me. “What are you doing there, barbarian?”

“Sir, I came to serve you grape wine as I was instructed by the grand maids in the kitchen.” I stood erect, my neck stiffened with the utmost composure.

“Oh, grape wine,” he sniffed, turning his attention to the tray beside him. Then, he overturned the entire table, enraged.

“Come here!” He pulled me by the hair, pushing me toward the exit. “You are a barbarian, and you work with the maids as well. You must know the nooks and crannies of this place, no?”

I remained mute. He continued, nonetheless. “Now, you will help me find Ve