Arrival at the Northern Estate — Warm & Familial Version
The moment the carriage rolled through the tall wrought-iron gates, Baker felt something tighten in his chest.
It wasn't fear—
It was awe.
The statues of the Ursaful and Glacie towered on either side of the entrance path, snow resting lightly on their heads and wings. Their stone gazes watched over everyone passing beneath them, ancient and proud.
But they weren't what made Baker swallow hard.
It was the people.
Servants poured out from the main doors of the grand estate like a small procession—
maids with braided northern-style hair,
butlers with thick winter uniforms,
stablehands in fur-lined coats,
and apprentices who couldn't be older than 12 but stood at attention with bright eyes.
Their breath rose in soft clouds in the cold air as they bowed.
"Welcome home, Lady Ventis! Lady Clarisse!"
The warmth in their voices shocked him.
Ventis smiled softly, lifting her hand in gentle greeting.
Clarisse waved with her usual flamboyant flair.
But Baker?
He froze like a deer in the snow.
A tiny panic fluttered in his chest.
This many people… smiling at me? Why?
Cel squirmed in his lap, sensing the tension, and nudged his cheek.
Baker swallowed.
"A-Are… are they always this… organized?" he whispered.
Ventis chuckled, her voice soothing.
"They're happy we've returned. It has been years, Baker."
Clarisse leaned close with a wicked smile.
"And look at you—little nephew overwhelmed by kindness. Adorable."
"A-Auntie!" Baker hissed, face burning.
A few maids giggled softly before covering their mouths, trying to remain proper.
At the front of the welcoming line stood two people:
Arelia Snowmantle — Head Maid
Mid-40s, tall and sturdy, with long silver-blonde hair braided down her back.
Warm brown eyes, weathered slightly from years in the north.
Her smile was gentle but precise.
Corvin Snowmantle — Head Butler
Also mid-40s, broad-shouldered, with thick dark hair tied in a northern-style knot.
Serious posture, but eyes kind.
His voice carried both discipline and warmth.
They were clearly husband and wife—
their coordination and presence seamless.
Arelia curtsied respectfully.
"Lady Ventis… Lady Clarisse… welcome home. The estate has missed your warmth."
Ventis's cheeks softened.
"It is good to see you, Arelia."
Corvin bowed deeply.
"Welcome back. And… this must be young Master Baker."
All eyes turned to him.
Baker tensed.
Cel tilted his head, icy-blue eyes curious.
"I, uh—hello," Baker said awkwardly, unsure what level of formality was required.
Arelia smiled warmly—like a mother watching a shy child.
"You do not need to be nervous, young master. We have waited many years to meet you."
Corvin nodded.
"Indeed. The household has long anticipated your arrival."
Baker blinked, genuinely stunned.
Clarisse nudged him with her elbow.
"They've heard all about your cooking and magic, you know."
"Aunt Clarisse…"
"And," Arelia added kindly, "Lady Ventis sent letters about your achievements. We are all very proud."
Baker turned red from ears to neck.
Even the apprentice maids and butlers looked at him like he was someone important—
not because of status,
but because they genuinely liked what they had heard.
The warmth was overwhelming.
But it felt good.
Really good.
Ventis touched his cheek gently.
"See? There is nothing to fear here. This estate is your home too."
He exhaled, the cold air puffing out like a sigh of relief.
Arelia stepped forward.
"We have prepared rooms for all of you. Hot drinks and stew are ready. If you wish to rest, we will take great care of everything."
Even their tone was soothing—
professional yet familial, proud yet gentle.
Baker finally smiled, small but real.
"Thank you," he said quietly. "It's… really nice to meet you all."
Some of the younger maids practically melted.
Clarisse whispered to the maids,
"He's too cute. Let's keep him."
The maids agreed with a blush on their faces.
Ventis swatted her hand playfully athjer sister.
The Snowmantles laughed, warm and full, the sound echoing across the snowy courtyard.
And Baker realized something he had never expected at his grandparents
place.
He felt welcomed,wanted and loved.