The Dark Sire Issue 1 (Fall 2019) | Page 35

walkways here. Sprinkle as you go.” I saw their confused faces. “Salt keeps the snow clear, you see. Chemistry.” I walked them outside, demonstrated, and then passed the salt around. “There, there. Sprinkle walkways as you head out.” They each thanked me on their way out, and I made myself a short note to dock their pay accordingly. Of course circumstances were understandable, but one does not get paid for time one has not worked. I indented to run a strict household. Thinking of my lord, I warmed some milk by the fire and followed the long stairway down the library. The sun, reflecting off the snow now, brought an almost heavenly yellow glow to the place that warmed it despite the cold. I tapped lightly on the library door. “Come in.” I opened the door slowly and found my lord engrossed in his studies. I said nothing, merely set the warmed milk onto the tray close to his desk. “You’ve sent the others home then.” “Yes sir, but don’t worry—” “I’m not worried.” “Very good sir.” 33