Biltmore Estate – Servants' Quarters
"Is Asporça here?" Edith called out, scanning the room.
"Yes, my lady," Asporça stepped forward promptly, giving a polite bow. "How may I assist you?"
Edith offered a faint smile. "How would you feel about becoming a lady-in-waiting?"
Asporça's eyes lit up. "Truly? I've always dreamed of such an opportunity!"
"I'm glad to hear that," Edith said warmly, though her expression shifted to something more serious. "But there are things you should know first."
"Of course, my lady." Asporça leaned in slightly, her curiosity piqued.
"Do you recall the story your mother told you about the pond on the estate?"
"The one about it being enchanted?" Asporça nodded. "She used to say it held ancient magic. Are you suggesting... it's real?"
Edith met her gaze. "It is. Someone traveled through it. From another time."
Asporça's breath caught. "Who?"
"Her name is Lyanna Asher. Beyond that, little is known. But she is... important."
Asporça blinked, stunned. "That's… incredible. I've heard stories of soulmates, but never believed I'd witness such a thing."
"She's real," Edith confirmed. "She's upstairs now. But she doesn't know you've been told. Keep this to yourself. Let her grow comfortable with you first. Understood?"
"Understood," Asporça replied with a respectful nod.
"Come. Let's not leave her in those wet clothes a moment longer," Edith said, turning.
"Agreed. We wouldn't want her falling ill, especially not before meeting Lord William."
The two women departed the servants' quarters and made their way to the guest bedchambers. Inside, Lyanna sat near the hearth, wrapped in a blanket, damp curls of her hair still clung to her cheeks.
Edith entered first, carrying fresh linens. Asporça followed behind her, balancing the folded garments on the bed.
"We've brought you something warm to wear," Edith said, placing the bundle beside Lyanna.
"Thank you, Edith. I truly appreciate it," Lyanna replied with a grateful smile.
Edith gestured to the maid beside her. "Allow me to introduce Asporça Jenero. She's one of our most trusted maids, and will serve as your lady-in-waiting."
Asporça gave a gentle curtsy. "It's an honor to meet you, Lady Lyanna."
"The pleasure is all mine, Asporça," Lyanna said kindly.
Edith clapped once to draw their focus. "Now, let's draw you a warm bath, shall we? That lake water can't be doing you any favors."
"Honestly, that sounds perfect," Lyanna said with a tired but sincere chuckle.
"Asporça," Edith prompted.
"Yes, my lady?"
"Please prepare a soothing bath for Lady Lyanna. Something to ease her nerves."
"Right away."
Asporça slipped out, quick on her feet.
"Shall we?" Edith asked, offering her hand.
Lyanna took it with a nod. "We shall."
---
Biltmore Estate – Bathhouse
Moments later, Lyanna reclined in a claw-foot tub, steam curling into the cool air. Cherry blossoms floated on the surface of the water.
"This feels divine," she murmured and closed her eyes in contentment.
"I'm glad," Asporça said, gently replenishing the warm water from a nearby pitcher. "The blossoms help soothe tension."
"Well, they're working wonders."
Edith entered quietly, her eyes scanning the room. "How are we doing in here?"
"We're nearly finished, my lady," Asporça replied as she folded a towel nearby.
"Excellent. We've a few gowns waiting upstairs to try on."
Lyanna opened one eye, intrigued. "Gowns? That actually sounds fun."
"Good. You'll need a proper outfit soon." Edith smiled faintly. "Ready to dry off?"
"Let's do it."
Asporça stepped forward, helping Lyanna from the tub and wrapping her in a thick towel. Once she was dry, Asporça secured a soft robe around her.
"I feel like a new woman," Lyanna said with a laugh.
"Then we're off to a good start," Edith replied.
"Agreed," Asporça added, smiling.
"Shall we return to your chambers?" Edith asked.
"I'm ready."
---
Fifteen Minutes Later – Lyanna's Bedchamber
The three women stepped into the room just as the door clicked shut behind them.
"The seamstress should arrive any moment," Edith announced, her tone almost playful.
Lyanna tilted her head. "A seamstress? What for?"
Edith turned serious. "You'll need gowns appropriate for this era, Lyanna. And tonight, my husband and I are hosting the Winter Solstice Ball."
Lyanna's eyes widened slightly. "A ball… tonight?"
Edith nodded. "You'll be our guest of honor."
Before Lyanna could respond, a knock echoed from the door.
"Come in," Edith called out, straightening her posture as the seamstress stepped into view.