Chapter 11

The doors to Alliyanna’s gilded prison slid open the next morning, revealing Lieutenant Vashin standing at attention, his expression carefully neutral.

“Good morning, Baroness,” he said with a slight bow. “I’ve been instructed to accompany you on your estate tour and outdoor exercise period.”

Alliyanna nodded, stepping into the corridor with an air of dignity she didn’t entirely feel. “Thank you, Lieutenant. I appreciate your assistance.”

As they walked through the opulent halls of Duke Birsha’s estate, Alliyanna took careful note of every corridor, every door, and every security panel they passed. Though still raw and unpredictable, her newfound telepathic abilities allowed her occasional glimpses into Vashin’s thoughts.

He’s uncomfortable with this situation and doesn’t approve of Birsha’s methods ... He might be an ally.

“The gardens are magnificent this morning, aren’t they, sir.” Alliyanna asked innocently.

The gardens were indeed spectacular. Meticulously manicured hedges formed intricate patterns around fountains that sparkled in the morning sunlight. Exotic flowers from across the galaxy bloomed in carefully arranged beds, their heady fragrances perfuming the air.

Vashin nodded stiffly. “The duke spares no expense for beauty, Baroness.”

Alliyanna caught his voice’s faint undercurrent of disapproval and pressed her advantage. “Beauty obtained at any cost, it seems,” she murmured, just loud enough for him to hear.

Vashin’s eyes darted to hers, then quickly away. “I wouldn’t know about that, Baroness.”

But his thoughts betrayed him: She’s right. The duke’s obsession with possession - of beauty, power, and her - knows no bounds.

They continued walking in silence until they reached a bench near a large shade tree near another fountain with a statue of a beautiful naked woman pouring water out of a pot into the pond. She sat down and invited Lieutenant Vashin to do the same.

“Yes, beauty for appearance sake.” Alliyanna thought to herself. But not because Birsha thinks it’s beautiful, but because some decorator said it was what he needed, or something close to that.

“Tell me, Lieutenant,” she said casually, “how long have you served under Captain Quan?”

Vashin’s expression remained carefully neutral. “Five standard years, Baroness.”

“And before that?”

A flicker of something—pain? Regret? —crossed his face. “Imperial Academy. Top of my class.”

Alliyanna nodded thoughtfully. “Yet you serve as second officer on a mercenary vessel. That seems ... unusual for someone with your qualifications.”

Vashin’s stride faltered slightly. “Life takes unexpected turns, Baroness.”

She caught a fragment of his thoughts: Disgraced ... family name ruined...

“Lieutenant,” she ventured carefully, “I want to thank you for your discretion aboard the ship regarding Captain Quan’s behavior.”

Vashin stiffened momentarily before his shoulders relaxed. “I serve justice before I serve any individual, Baroness. What the captain attempted was dishonorable.”

Lieutenant Vashin, might you guide me to the kitchen? I find I’m starving for breakfast. Then maybe we could explore the library afterward?”

Lieutenant Vashin’s posture softened slightly. “Of course, Baroness. Follow me.”

As they walked toward the kitchens, Alliyanna noticed Vashin’s stride becoming less rigid and his manner more conversational. “The chef here is quite talented,” he offered, “Trained on Gastronia Prime.”

The kitchens were a hive of activity—staff hurrying about, preparing elaborate dishes under the watchful eye of a stern-faced chef. The aromas of exotic spices and freshly baked bread filled the air.

“Chef Marden,” Vashin called, and a tall, thin man with a meticulously groomed mustache turned toward them. “The Baroness would like breakfast.”

Chef Marden’s eyes widened slightly at Alliyanna walking freely through the kitchen, but he recovered quickly. “Of course! What would the Baroness desire for breakfast this morning?” Chef Marden asked.

“I’ve endured ships rations for so long that I find I am famished for a real hearty breakfast, but I’ll eat whatever you’ve prepared for the Duke.” figuring it would be less of a hassle to eat what was already prepared instead of making the kitchen staff work harder on her account.

Chef Marden’s expression brightened. “Ah, the duke’s breakfast is quite elaborate, Baroness. Perhaps you would enjoy a sampling?” With a snap of his fingers, he directed his staff to prepare a plate.

Minutes later, Alliyanna found herself seated at a small table in a corner of the kitchen, a feast spread before her: delicate pastries filled with sweet and savory fillings, eggs prepared with exotic herbs, fresh fruits sliced into intricate patterns, and a steaming pot of aromatic tea.

As she ate, Alliyanna observed the kitchen staff, noting their interactions and hierarchies. Most avoided looking directly at her, but she caught curious glances and whispered conversations. Using her emerging telepathic abilities, she picked up fragments of thoughts: