Today was a day she had a hard time understanding. When she woke up this morning,her master had her clean as usual,there was a larger mess than usual because of Thomas,the cat,he'd played outside and left muddy paw prints everywhere. It was hard to clean the dirt of the stone floors since it'd already dried,she got yelled at by the mistress for that,she spent the better half of the day scrubbing.

Strangely the master wasn't home today,even though it was the day he was usually off. He'd left first thing this morning and hadn't returned since. The mistress seemed to be angrier than usual and she had to spend some time massaging the lady's back in order to calm her down. She wondered what was the source of the anger but didn't dare ask,last time she'd been too nosy and had to wash the tub with a single rag,with a pestering Thomas who'd steal her cloth when she set it down.

The master returned after some time, accompanying him was another man.

She was just a bit curious,whenever the master brought someone,it meant one of the other servants would get taken to a new home. So hiding behind a wall she snuck glances at the new man.

The man was very tall,taller than any of the boys that lived here,he had a very cold appearance though,she watched him for awhile and even after the man had seen several servants there wasn't a smile or any sort of affirmation that he was pleased. He must have been very rich as well,she learned how to tell by how the master reacted,when someone very important came,the master would make them clean the house spotless and clean themselves to their best.

She had been watching the man look through servants for quite some time before the mistress had caught her and dragged her over as well,she was sure to be scolded so she simply kept her head down. The master and mistress were arguing lightly,and while they were distracted she tried to sneak more looks at the new man.

He had dark brown hair and a very pale complexion,she was startled when his eyes met her own,she quickly shot her head back down. 

One very important rule the master had told them was never to meet the eyes of potential buyers,anyone who didn't learn that rule quick enough would be whipped and told to do work outside.

She hoped the man would keep silent for her sake,she was already shaking at the thought someone had seen the exchange and would tell on her later on. 

Strangely instead of being angry the man knelt down,holding her face to raise it,their eyes met again. She was blown away by the beautiful blue that looked back at her.

There was only one other person she'd known with blue eyes,and they were long gone.

" What is your name? "

The man's voice was very gentle,she wasn't sure how to answer.

It wasn't that she was afraid,but the master and mistress never gave her a name,she was always called 'girl',and that's what she responded to. So being asked that was quite troublesome,but at the same time,if she didn't answer the man would surely be angered and tell the master.

The master actually caught on to their exchange and hurried over.

" Ah,this one is Emilia,she's still quite young Mr.Walter,if you're looking for a new servant I recommend an older one with some more experience. She'll have to train here a few more years,she's still quite untamed. " the master tried to persuade the man to look at some other servants. 

The man still stuck to her for a moment,his hand retracting slowly as he stood.

The master and he walked away,the man seemed to want her. She had no say really if she wanted to go or not,so she could only wait. Some of the other servants glared at her while other expressed sympathy.

In the end when the man left she was called over once more,it seemed as if the decision was final,she didn't want to ruin her chances at getting a new home so she could only go over.

" Emilia...you'll be coming to stay with me soon,I'll hope to see you in a few days. "

She nodded,the master stood behind her,a hand on her shoulder as they both bid farewell to the man.

After he'd left the master told her to quickly finish her jobs for the day and clean up afterwards. She was passed on to the oldest servant in the house,she was a woman in her twenties who'd been here longer than she'd been alive.

The days rushed by and before she knew it she was being driven in a large car to an even larger manor. She couldn't help but awe at the sheer size and beauty,there was even a flower garden with a table and tea set up front,there was a golden gate which they'd had to get access to enter.

She was led inside the manor,the path to the the manor was made with stone,there were some large rocks that jutted out and she had to be careful not to trip lest she trip and tarnish the new dress she'd been given by the master. It wasn't very pretty, it was still torn in spots and had a few stains,but still it was the nicest thing she'd been given,and still better than the rags she'd worn before.

A servant led her further into the house,inside was even more stunning,it was even more furnished than the master's house. All kinds of golden furniture and plush seats filled the rooms,large,beautiful lights hung from the ceiling.

They stopped walking when they reached a corridor,there was a simple,brown door,it was tightly shut and she couldn't hear a thing happening inside. The other servant simply told her to wait outside before walking away. 

There were a couple of chairs beside the door but she didn't dare sit in them,if she got them dirty it would definitely result in trouble,not only that but servants weren't allowed to sit on furniture. So she simply sat on the floor. Even that wasn't too bad though,there was a fluffy carpet and it was soft to the touch,it made it quite comfy to sit on the floor,she wouldn't mind having to sit here forever honestly.

But after a few moments the door opened and the man from before opened the door,looking around before turning his gaze to her on the floor. His eyebrows furrowed as he pulled her up. 

" Why are you on the floor? Quickly,get up. " she followed him inside the room,a large desk in the center of the room,two chairs on either side of it.

The man took a seat and she was going to sit on the floor before remembering the man's distaste earlier,so she simply stood. With her short stature it was hard to see the man any longer. On the desk she could spy some papers,pens,books, and a metal plate with some letters carved,she couldn't read so it was useless to learn her new master's name this way.

She couldn't see the man but heard his sigh. " Why aren't you sitting,is the seat too high? " she shook her head,before realizing the man probably couldn't see her either.

" No sir,but servants can't sit on furniture. "

The man came into sight again as he stood walking around the desk to walk back to her,she stumbled back a couple steps,a little frightened by his sudden movement. Then she recalled that her previous master would grow angrier if she drew back,so she simply held still waiting for the man to yell or hit her.

Her head dropped as she stared at the ground.

A pair of knees came into sight,she looked up confusedly to see the man kneeling in front of her again. She squealed as she was suddenly lifted and placed into the plush chair. 

The man continued to rest on the floor,his eyes staring gently at her, " Emilia,in this place be at ease,this is your home. Do as you please,the seats are yours to sit on. " 

She was still frightened,what if this was a test? If she didn't refuse and get off the seat,she'd be punished right?

But under the man's gentle gaze she couldn't help but be soothed,the familiar color made her want to trust the man.

" How old are you this year? " she had a hard time remembering,after all,servants didn't celebrate birthdays. But she recalled the master saying she was ten last month when another buyer visited.

The man asked her a few more things she had a difficult time answering,and then he called the same servant as before to lead her way again. She stared back,the man looked sadder than she had reason to believe. He was rich and had such a nice house,what reason could there be for him to be sad?

The servant was a pretty woman,she had long brown hair and similar colored eyes to match,she seemed to be older,maybe as old as the woman in her old home. She was quite nice as well,she had a soft voice that welcomed her to the new home.

" Master Walter is quite cold but don't worry,he's not devilish,as long as you're good he won't scold you. " the woman chattered quite a lot,it surprised Emilia,most servants would be punished for speaking too much or too loudly,yet this woman spoke carefree,and of the master to boot!

Instead of being led to the lower levels of the manor,they were taking a set of stairs,which was strange because servant quarters usually were at either base level or in basements.

But Mr.Walter was quite strange so she didn't question it and instead followed Anna,the woman servant.

Anna led her to a bedroom,it wasn't very furnished but there was a large bed and a window with silky curtains to trap the sunlight. She assumed she had to get to work immediately,but she couldn't find any cleaning equipment in the room or hall.

She was pushed inside by Anna who simply giggled and parted the curtains to let some light in. The room was spotless,not a single speck of dust in sight.

" Master said this is to be your room,i'm quite surprised since most of us live in the servant quarters together. But you must've impressed him somehow. Keep it clean,alright? "

Emilia nodded but her mind was occupied by the simple yet amazing room,this was hers! In her previous home,she had to sleep with the other servants,they didn't have any beds and had to use cloths to lie on,even though they cleaned it,the air was quite dry and there was no light. Emilia was often sick because of having to share with ill people.

There wasn't a need to worry about it any longer though. But she was a bit concerned about how she would climb on the bed,it was a bit too high for her to climb onto. But she wasn't stupid enough to complain about such a thing,what if this was taken from her if Mr.Walter found her ungrateful?

Anna said that she didn't have any work for the day and simply should memorize the rooms in the manor for later on,she didn't voice any complaints towards this either.

Even though this new house was a bit strange,Emilia though it was much better than before,she had to do her best to please Mr.Walter so he didn't return her. In order to do that she would quickly memorize the layout of her new home. She followed Anna as the woman went from room to room doing simple chores

---

 The next day she woke by knocking on the door,she sat up from the pile of covers she'd laid down. The floor was clean and the covers were   too fluffy for her to be affected by the coolness of the ground,she'd even managed to jump and grab a couple pillows. Not wanting to anger     anyone she jumped up from her warm cocoon and there all of the covers and back on the bed.

Her blonde hair was falling into her eyes,she didn't pay any mind and rushed to the door to greet whoever was outside. She nearly tripped on her dress which was a size too large.

Opening the door and being met with a cheery Anna,who took one look at her drowsy form and started to giggle again, a slim hand covering her mouth.

" Come quickly,the master wishes to see you at breakfast. My,let me brush your hair first. "

Anna looked around carefully before dragging her to an empty bathroom where a multitude of brushes lay, " Anna,servants can't- "

" Hush,hush. I know exactly what they can and can't do,i'll clean it later,so just between us,alright? "

Emilia couldn't protest seeing Anna look so eager,she simply agreed and let herself be placed on the counter,Anna's calloused hands smoothly brushing out her strands.

Her hair wasn't very good as to be expected,it was very dirty looking,her bright yellow locks a mellow brown from dirt and such,as well there being many knots that made her eyes tear up when tugged. Anna was quite the professional though,it didn't hurt nearly as much as when the mistress did it yesterday.

They had to rush down the stairs as breakfast was already beginning to be served,Anna had led her to the dining room before having to run into the kitchen after being called.

Emilia was hesitant to open the door,she pushed the heavy wood lightly,poking her head through to see if anyone was there yet. She looked around before Mr.Walter who sitting at the head of the table caught sight of her and beckoned her forward. With a rush she scuttled the rest of her body through the door and beside the man.

She stood to the side wondering if she should pour drinks,although the table was too high for her to even see what was even on top,

Mr.Walter gave her a smile,motioning to the chair next to him. Emilia could only pull it out a couple inches before her arms were exhausted,everything in the manor was larger and heavier than in her previous home,it truly made it difficult for anything to be done. She stood with embarrassment marring her cheeks.

She guessed Mr.Walter saw she couldn't pull it out,because in the next moment the man was standing and pulling it out for her. The next problem being actually sitting,she gripped the arms and tried to heave herself up,only to have the chair wobble and nearly tip over if it wasn't for Mr.Walter catching it.

Her struggle being seen,Mr.Walter once again just lifted her into the seat. She couldn't help but cover her face in shame,Mr.Walter was the master,yet here she was having him do work for her. After all he's already done for her,she should be doing her best.

Anna walked into the room,nearly dropping her tray in surprise at seeing Emilia sitting in a chair next to the master. But gaining her composure she walked over to set the tray down,laughing lightly at how Emilia was too short to reach the table top.

" Master, " Emilia was a bit startled and looked at her as well as Mr.Walter, " Shall I bring some pillows so the lady can reach? "

As if just realizing she was too short Mr.Walter turned to look at her,giving approval to Anna afterwards.

" Emilia,if you find anything unsuitable you must tell me...it's quite hard for me to see things through your eyes. " Emilia shook her head quickly.

" No! Mr.Walter has given me a lot already,i'm very thankful! There's no need to trouble yourself over me more,i'm just a servant, "

Emilia ducked her head still uttering her thanks as Anna returned with some pillows to boost her height on the chair. Now that she could actually see what was being served she was stunned,there was a plate in front of her as well,waiting to be filled,but she couldn't dare. This,this was a bit too much right?

She only watched Mr.Walter eat,she didn't know if it was allowed to eat what was on the table or if her meal was to be brought. Her stomach growled lightly at the lovely display of breads,jams,and meats, she hoped Mr.Walter hadn't heard.

When in fact,her hunger strike had brought more attention, " Is it not to your liking? " She shook her head.

" It looks very good. "

A few things were placed onto her plate.

" Then quickly eat,you're far too thin. "

It wasn't that Emilia didn't want to eat,it wasn't that the food wasn't to her liking,it was just..

" But I'm a servant,I shouldn't be eating here or having Mr.Walter's food. "

She shouldn't be talking back this much either,if it was back at her old home than surely she'd be bloodied on the back. It was just strange,even Mr.Walter was especially kind,why was she the only being treated so well? Anna and the other servants all slept in the servant quarters and ate servants' food.

She couldn't refuse as Mr.Walter simply filled her plate for her.

" Nonsense,as I've said,in this place you can do as you wish. Now eat,please. " with Mr.Walter smiling at her so kindly she couldn't resist,picking up the soft bread and chewing away. 

She had to close her eyes and savor the taste,she'd never eaten anything as good as this. Once,the master at her old home had dropped the bread and told the servants to throw it away,instead when the servant returned to the kitchen,everyone had fought over it. Emilia never understood why everyone would've went so crazy over such a thing,but now she understood that even a simple piece of bread would be enough to motivate a servant for life! 

With that thought in mind she couldn't help but sneak a piece to give to Anna later,the woman had been very good to her,she should let Anna taste this to repay the favor.

Mr.Walter had to return to work after that,Anna said Mr.Walter normally worked at home but sometimes he'd go somewhere if he had a meeting.

Anna said that while he was gone she would help her get cleaned up. Emilia could only agree,after all it was quite embarrassing to face someone so polished like Mr.Walter while having a head full of dirt. Even though the master had let them wash sometimes,it was only with some cold water,the grease was hard to wash off like that.

But Anna had run a warm bath,Emilia was a bit hesitant but after hearing Mr.Walter allowed the servants at least this much she agreed,the bath was incredible. Anna had put in some really wonderful smelling shampoo and oils,there was a mess of bubbles in the tub,Emilia couldn't help but play with the soapy foam at the chance.

She even had her hair washed clean,Anna was quite good at it,she felt so relaxed she almost fell asleep again. And after the wonderful bath,she was coddled in a large towel,the dress the old master gave her was discarded,Anna instead went to look for something to fit her better.

There was a large mirror,and for the first time in a long while Emilia saw her clean reflection,her bright blonde hair was growing quite long,rolling down her back in soft waves,and of course her crystal blue eyes stared back.

---

Today Mr.Walter was taking her somewhere,they'd gotten into the large black car she rode in the first day she arrived. She was a bit afraid he was taking her back,but she sat beside him silently. Her new dress clutched between her small hands,Mr.Walter had gotten it for her after Anna told him she had nothing to wear. Emilia was horrified after Anna said it,Mr.Walter had done so much for her already.

And instead of bringing her some more rags Mr.Walter returned with many beautiful dresses,Emilia nearly died seeing the laces and pretty ribbons,it was a hassle to put them on by herself so Anna had to assist her every time. She told Mr.Walter that if she wore the dresses when cleaning that she'd ruin the clothes,but instead of telling her to return the dresses he'd told her she should just stop cleaning!

They've been driving for a while now,and Mr.Walter is honestly too good to her,if she stares outside the window too long he'll ask her if she's hungry or wants something. And even if she says no,he'll make the driver stop and buy it anyways! 

Emilia isn't sure if he's just fattening her up so he can eat her like in that one story she heard where the two kids are captured and a witch tries to make them fat and eat them,she really doesn't want to push Mr.Walter into the oven,but she really doesn't want to be baked into a pie either!

When they finally arrive Mr.Walter holds her hand and helps her out of the car,they walk until they reach a building.

The place he led her to is strange,there's many people guarding the entrance,a high wall blocking her view of what's inside. It's strange she thinks,she's been here almost a week now,and Mr.Walter...he's kinder than her previous owner. He doesn't yell or order her to do anything,in fact he's been too nice. He gives her pretty clothes and delicious snacks,and today...he says she'll get to see her mother again.

And she finds it hard to believe because her mother..her mother has been gone for a long time. 

The servants at her old home used to tell her that her mother was a beautiful lady from a rich background,but because she didn't want Emilia she sold her to the master. But Emilia knows that isn't true. Because her furthest memories,even as blurry as they are,are about a woman holding her close,a gentle smile,beautiful blue eyes and a tattered dress. 

Her mother wasn't around when she was young,she knows this much,the most motherly figure she had in her life was the mistress. The mistress wasn't as loving,in fact she'd yelled a lot,threw slaps a couple of times,but even so that was the woman who provided a home.

Mr.Walter talked to another man,she waited by watching the stone-faced guards,they were all in a uniform and had straight posture. She was pulled away as Mr.Walter tugged her hand to make her follow.

Mr.Walter shook hands with the other man, "Ah yes, I've found your reservation, Mr. Walter. We welcome you to your stay here at Saint Lyn Graveyard."

They exited the building more once but through a side entrance,instead of the gates like before,they were in an open field with many stones jutted above the ground. Emilia knew exactly what this place was.

She had heard it from the other servants,even though she was quite young she had knowledge about things such as death,and being taken here after Mr.Walter said they'd come to see her mother could only mean one thing.

Tears pooled at her eyes as Mr.Walter held her hand walking down many paths. The place was depressing,even though it was kept very clean,the land was plant free minus the flowers people had left by the stones. There was a giant tree,most of the leaves had fallen and the rest that clung on were a deathly brown,many birds were sitting on the empty branches,cawing and flying over the graves.

Even though there were many graves Mr.Walter didn't stop for a long while,not even checking the words on the stones,Emilia couldn't read and didn't know who any of the people were.

In the distance there was a small building,though Emilia wasn't sure what it was,there weren't any walls,only a large tarp to block out the sun and some beautiful pillars. Inside were only more graves,though there were a lot less,and the graves were much more spread apart.

Mr.Walter finally stopped at one of the graves,it was much like any of the others,someone had put a bouquet of pretty,pink flowers,Emilia had seen roses before but these were different,much more charming,they had different shades,and she thought whoever put them there really put good thought.

" Mr.Walter,is this my mother's? "

She didn't wait for answer,releasing his hand to step closer to the grave,setting the flowers aside so they wouldn't be crushed,she crouched by the stone,her hand getting chills from the cool surface. The stone was wiped completely clean,not a hint of dirt in sight. 

She traced the letters on the stone,eyebrows scrunched as she tried to make it out. Previously,Emilia hadn't known her own name,much less her mother's. And because servants were frequently brought in and out of her old home,no one who knew her mother actually lived there anymore.

Looking at Mr.Walter hesitantly she decided to simply ask him what it read, " Mr.Walter,could you please read it for me? "

Mr.Walter crouched beside her,his larger hand stroking the stone as well. There was a smile on his face yet he had the same saddened look as before.

" Elia.. " Mr.Walter traced the letters as well, " She was called Elia. Looked very much like you. She used to work in my home as well,we grew quite close then. She was stunning,everyone was entranced by her. Sadly she had been returned,when she was taken I thought that there would be a chance for me to search for her again, "

Emilia was surprised that her mother worked for Mr.Walter as well,but she was curious as to why she'd be returned,it wasn't uncommon for servants to be taken back,but usually that was if they were terrible workers or the master wasn't satisfied,since Mr.Walter said her mother was favored,what reason could there be?

" Do you know what happened to her? "

Emilia didn't know why but seeing Mr.Walter this absorbed by her mother made her feel,even if she was a servant,no matter what Mr.Walter wouldn't treat her any less for it.

" It was because of our closeness she was taken,at the time I wasn't sure where to. But you needn't worry yourself Emilia,I won't let you be taken as well, " Mr.Walter smiled at her as her head was patted. Emilia couldn't help but be embarrassed by the show of affection,not many people had done so before.

She was quite worried about the grave though,her mother was a simple servant,this place seemed very posh,what if someone had her removed? Then her mother's grave would be lost forever!

Mr.Walter didn't share her worries,he replaced the flowers she'd put aside earlier,standing to take her hand again. " This is a private cemetery,I had her moved here especially,as long as I'm alive no one would dare touch her grave. Whenever you wish to see her just ask,i'll always accompany you. "

With a bright smile Emilia gave her thanks to the man. It was truly lucky that she'd met Mr.Walter.

---

Emilia had been left for a moment as Mr.Walter left to go speak with someone. Since she had nothing to do she went from one grave to the next,wiping them off and giving a greeting.

Mr.Walter had said it was private so that must've meant all these people were related to him somehow. And since he'd done so much for her,and her mother,the least she could do was make sure the graves were well kept. Although not much cleaning needed to be done,the stones were all in tiptop shape.

Out of the corner of her eye she spotted something moving behind her a few feet away,hiding behind another stone. She turned to look,yet the space was empty. " Hello? "

She called out,no one responded. She figured it must have been a bird flying by,so she resumed her task of cleaning and greeting.

A couple moments later she got the same flash of movement,it was a blue looking figure,she couldn't make out an exact form since whenever she tried to turn the thing would simply disappear once more.

Deciding that a plan was necessary she ignored the figure,silently carrying along the aisles in the cemetery. The figure was following steadily,ducking behind a new stone the closer it got. Emilia waited,walking in a circle. The figure instead of going to a new stone every time chose to circle the one stone it hid behind.

She stuck to the route a few times,and just when she was about to start a new circle,she spun in the opposite way catching clear sight of what was following her around.

The figure,a cute girl,was startled an let out a gasp,ducking behind her stone. Head peeking out silently to check if Emilia was still looking.

Emilia was actually quite happy to see another girl her age,all the other servants at Mr.Walter's manor were around Anna's age,so she hadn't seen anyone to play with in a while.

She figured the girl must be pretty shy,so before immediately rushing over she gave another greeting.

" Um,hello. Please don't hide,I'm Emilia,what's your name? " as she spoke she walked a bit closer,the girl was cute but now that Emilia was closer she realized she was transparent. The sunlight shone right through her and her dark seemed to unnaturally float behind her. While she was confused she didn't want to ruin her chances at making a friend.

The girl no longer hid,standing beside the stone,or rather she was floating slightly. Emilia stared at her feet in wonder,how was she able to fly? Perhaps she could show Emilia as well?

The girl was shorter than her,regardless of the floating,she was wearing a similar dress to what Emilia wore,her hair was flowing free,although there was a blue aura that seemed to surround her,Emilia could still make out some different colors,her hair being a brown,and her eyes were simply mesmerizing,an incredible green that reminded her of the spring.

And Emilia wasn't quite sure what she'd done but instead of a friendly greeting,the girl pouted,cheeks puffed adorably and arms crossed. A glare was thrown at her for a reason unknown.

The girl had mumbled something,Emilia wasn't quite sure and asked for a repetition, " I said,stay away from my papa! " the girl had shouted this time and being startled Emilia tripped backwards.

Emilia was horrified,she quickly stood to inspect the damage done to her dress. Right now it was Fall,it had rained a few days prior so the dirt on the cemetery was a bit mushy. Earlier there had been a lot of dirt caught up in her shoes but that didn't matter since it could be easily washed.

With how delicate the fabric of the dress was,not to mention all the easily stained lace,it would be near impossible to clean it. 

It was at this time that Mr.Walter returned. Emilia was immensely worried,fresh tears springing to her eyes as she hurried to apologize to the man.

" The dress,I've ruined it- " clutching the fabric in her hands, Mr.Walter looked frozen for a moment before pulling out a handkerchief and bending down to wipe her face.

" No need to cry Emilia,if you liked it we can buy the same one. You're not hurt right? Shall we take our leave? I'll have Anna prepare something sweet once we return home,alright? " Mr.Walter seemed more flustered than her,frantically wiping and completely disregarding the fact she'd ruined the gift he'd given her.

How could she dare ask for another one? If it was like this,she was better off to wear the rags she before,Mr.Walter must have spent a fortune on this dress,and she'd made a mess of it within the first week!

Mr.Walter had simply lifted her and began to walk to the exit,Emilia felt even worse as now she'd also gotten mud on his suit. 

From this high in Mr.Walter's arms she could see the girl still following behind them,she seemed even angrier than before,stomping with every step she took,glaring even more fiercely. Emilia feels a bit guilty. It seems the girl is holding some kind of grudge against her and it seems to be centered around Mr.Walter. But she's wondering why Mr.Walter is ignoring her.

Just as they pass the door the girl does as well,tears well in her eyes and she hits the open air,it seems like she can't get through for one reason or another. Emilia at this point can't bear to see any more and asks Mr.Walter to put her down. As soon as she touches the ground she walks to the girl,offering a hand. Even though the girl reaches for it Emilia is stunned because it passes right through.

She looks at Mr.Walter for some explanation but he's looking at her like she's doing something strange, " Emilia what are you doing? Let's return home,it's getting quite late, " Mr.Walter takes her hand as they walk away,she can only look back helplessly at the crying girl. Her heart aches from sympathy,after all she knows what it's like to be left behind. 

Though she can't do anything now she knows she'll ask Mr.Walter to return here,both for her mother and so she can befriend the strange girl. Emilia realizes she still hadn't gotten her name,she was going to turn back,but once she looks the girl is already gone.

---

It's been another week since she started living at Mr.Walter's,she's suffering right now because after they went to the cemetery Mr.Walter realized she couldn't read,he'd said that she she should at least know this much and went to find her a tutor.

The tutor was a man about the same age as Mr.Walter,he was slender and very polite. On top of teaching her to read and write he'd give her picture books that had facts about all sorts of things. The one she was reading now was about animals. She recognized the common ones and didn't have to worry about the tutor asking her what it read beside the picture.

But there were so many animals she'd yet to see,like this enormous creature called an elephant. Her tutor said some were so large that even three of Mr.Walter couldn't compare to their height and weight. And although Emilia did find it fascinating,she still preferred cute ones,like this thing Mr.Charles called a gopher. It was simply too adorable!

When she and Mr.Walter had dinner that night she couldn't help but flaunt all the new information she'd gained, " But you know Mr.Walter not all of them are nice. We used to have a cat named Thomas,he was very mean,he always took things when I wasn't looking. But Thomas was really cute too. His fur was really fluffy,and it looked like snow. "

Mr.Walter listened to her talk with a smile. Emilia really liked that he listened no matter what she talked about,it made her feel appreciated,sometimes Mr.Walter would even check in when Mr.Charles was teaching and praise for being a quick learner,even though knew she wasn't the best student it felt nice.

" Would you like one then? " she paused mid chew,staring at the man with wide eyes. 

Liking Thomas and appreciating cute animals was one thing,but getting one herself? What if she she didn't take good care of it? And if it was anything like Thomas who made frequent messes,she'd not only trouble Mr.Walter but also the other servants.

But regardless of how much she refused Mr.Walter insisted they should head to the pet shop to see if there was anything that caught her fancy. 

For someone like Emilia who'd only seen one naughty cat,being surrounded by cute,playful animals was sure to make her excited. She glanced at Mr.Walter to confirm she could look around,he waved her away with a smile. He himself talked to the worker,trying to understand what was needed to care for a pet.

Emilia saw all kinds of creatures,most she recognized from the picture book Mr.Charles gave her,the others she didn't she had to try and guess from the name sign. 

She had quite a bit of fun,she had a staring contest with a lizard,it was bright red and large eyes. She found it's appearance more silly that scary. Across from that display were a bunch of turtles. Whenever she approached they would hide in their shells,and while she thought they were cute as well,if she was going to get a pet it should be something that enjoyed her presence as much as she enjoyed its.

Next she looked at cats. She saw one that was identical to Thomas,and although they looked similar,their personalities were completely off. This cat looked quite lazy compared to mischievous Thomas who'd constantly meow and run around in the mud. 

Emilia actually was going to tell Mr.Walter she liked this one,but before she could go find him she was pulled away by the sound of a whimpering. Her first thought was to get the worker,but she thought it might just be scared so she went to look herself,lest she upset the worker for no reason.

She followed the sound,and contrary to her expectation,instead of a crying puppy,in front of her was a large dog. It was crying softly its nose poking against it's cage. In front of the cage a Emilia spotted a soft toy,it was covered in slobber and had patches of fur matted down. She guessed the dog just lost its toy.

The dog was quite large,almost the same size as her,just a bit shorter. It's fur was a dark black,and she could tell someone had forgotten to brush it,the dog's fur tangled and knotted in some spots.

When it saw her approaching it backed away a bit,as if on guard. She held out her hand,the toy coming into the dog's sight. After it saw the toy it came closer once more,tail wagging as it gave a cheery bark. 

Emilia found this dog cute despite it's size. In a way it reminded her of herself,it was here surrounded by it's own kind,yet still it was lonely and a bit mistreated.

She decided that if it was any creature,it should be this one she takes home. 

She got to pet the dog a couple times,her hand small enough to fit through the cage bars,it gave her a slobbery lick in return. With a happy smile she went to look for Mr.Walter.

" Mr.Walter,I've found one I like! " she led the two men to her new companion. The worker seemed a bit twitchy.

" I think a smaller puppy would be more suited to the lady. This one is quite heavy,it might accidentally crush her! Perhaps a Terrier or something alike. " 

Upon hearing these words Emilia couldn't help but frown. Crush her? She might be a bit small but she wasn't stupid enough to let a dog harm her! And this dog was cautious so she really doubted it was stupid enough to something like that either.

So for the first time she did something that she was told not to do since she was born. Instead of quietly letting the choice be made for her she became stubborn and spoke back. Emilia still had an itching of fear in case she angered either the worker of Mr.Walter,but still,if she was going to be having a pet,it should be one she chose.

And in the end,although the worker was still a bit ruffled he didn't protest any further,simply telling her what she had to do in order to take care of it. 

Mr.Walter didn't seem the least bothered,in fact he was smiling at her still,leading her to pick out collars and such for the new dog.

The worker called it a 'Newfoundland',Emilia thought the name was ridiculous,but in case her dog was used to being called like that she named him 'Finny'. It sounded both similar and cute to her. And even though her new companion didn't respond to the name,they were told it'd take training for it to work.

So on the way home,Finny now was riding beside her,happily laying his head in her lap while he chewed on a new toy. It was still soft since Mr.Walter said that the squeaky ones would be quite bothersome to everyone.

In the trunk of the car there were many things,a cage included. Mr.Walter said that some places wouldn't let Finny run around so they'd have to cage him when they weren't home or taking a walk.

It made her a bit sad for her dog knowing he'd be restricted,but as long as Finny could be free otherwise she was okay with it.

---

It was maybe another two weeks of her studying and spending with Mr.Walter before her mind drifted to the cemetery and the girl she hadn't seen in quite some time. Emilia decided to ask Mr.Walter if they could visit once more. They headed out and Emilia even brought along Finny. The dog hadn't been walked today so it would be beneficial.

Emilia had wondered how to coax the girl into being her friend,and she thought of the things she would have liked at her age. With that in mind she brought along a rabbit doll that Mr.Walter had gifted her a bit ago. It was a cottony white,with small brown beads for eyes,a tiny pink nose and a few whiskers of each side.

She figured that the girl would be happy and prayed it would work as a peace offering. Mr.Walter had asked why she brought it along and she told him she made a friend last time and wanted to give it to her,although the girl wasn't actually her friend yet.

When they reached the cemetery they were once again led in by the man from before. He said that Finny couldn't go in unless leashed,thankfully Mr.Walter had brought it along and she didn't have to leave Finny behind.

Mr.Walter said he'd let her visit alone while he discussed things with the other man,they seemed to be friends,and Emilia didn't want to take up their time so she let them be. When she walked outside,similar to before all the graves were spotless. Remembering the way from before she went off to her mother's grave. She'd actually brought some flowers today,they were the same ones from before. Mr.Walter was actually the one who put them there last time.

She led Finny along,once she placed the flowers down she went to search for the girl from before.

The girl was actually only a few graves away,she was sitting with her back resting against one of the headstones,her face buried in her arms. It seemed she had yet to notice Emilia's arrival.

With careful steps she walked over,when she got closer she noticed the grave that she was resting against was different from the rest. The headstone had flowers etched onto it,pink ribbons lacing around. There were actually already a few toys resting on the ground.

When Emilia caught sight of the name on the headstone she was quite shocked. It was because it had Mr.Walter's last name on there as well,and judging from what the girl said last time,this could only be Mr.Walter's daughter! 

And since there was a grave for her it meant...

It was then that the girl finally noticed their presence,she jumped up,wiping translucent tears from her face. The girl looked around,Emilia guessed she was probably looking for Mr.Walter. The girl's face indeed dropped seeing no one else around. She settled a glare at Emilia. 

To her surprise,beside her Finny also started barking. It was in the direction of the girl so she could only assume he saw her too.

At first the girl,whose name she now knew to be Madelyn,was quite apprehensive of her. But after the offering of her bunny she opened up and suddenly burst into tears once more.

Emilia couldn't touch her so the only means of comfort she could give was listening to Madelyn's sorrows.

It turns out that,after she'd passed away and had been put into the cemetery,she could no longer leave the place and see Mr.Walter,the only time she got to see him was when he came to visit. And even then he couldn't see her,even if she shouted and cried,Mr.Walter only spoke to the grave instead of actually looking at her.

That was why last time when Emilia was leaving,Madelyn only stood by the door. 

After hearing this she instantly felt awful,she'd been playing with Mr.Walter while his own daughter had to wait for weeks or even months at a time to be able to see him.

But in spite of their bad start Madelyn actually apologized afterwards and said her thanks for the present.

When they had to leave once more,Madelyn was coming along,she rode on Finny's back while Emilia held the leash. When the door approached she felt an overwhelming sadness.

But when she walked through the door,Finny didn't stop either,and somehow Madelyn crossed through the door as well! They were both in shock,they didn't know how it was done but nonetheless Madelyn became elated. With this she could return home possibly,and then she'd be able to her father constantly!

Emilia knew the only difference today had been Finny,so she guessed maybe Madelyn could pass as long as she held on to him. They tested out the theory,she released the leash and let Finny walk ahead.

Once more they were surprised when Madelyn was stunted by an invisible barrier and shoved off of Finny,landing on the floor. Immediately the joy from before was dispelled.

Mr.Walter had already walked out and was calling to Emilia to come along. She glanced at Madelyn who was depressed once more,grabbing Finny's leash she said some consoling words. " I'll definitely return,and i'll find a way to break you out of here. So please wait a bit longer,alright Madelyn? "

Madelyn only nodded tearfully. She stood to hug Finny goodbye,even if he didn't work,Madelyn was fond of him. Previously her father hadn't let her get an animal,so at first she was angry towards the dog and Emilia,but they were both being kind and had noticed her,so she had to let go of that.

While she was still holding onto Finny ,Mr.Walter had whistled to get the dog to come. Unexpectedly the dog rushed towards his master,jerking both Emilia and Madelyn out of the door and into the cool air outside.

---

Since then they'd figured out a way for Madelyn to leave places. All they had to do was both of them hold Finny in some way and walk out. Emilia wasn't sure why this was,but she wouldn't complain.

Madelyn and her grew much closer afterwards. They even shared her room,and it turns out Madelyn could touch objects,just not humans. They both went on adventures in the gardens with Finny,sometimes they'd find bugs,and Madelyn would be terrified and run,Emilia from her servant days had been used to such things and took on the role of her protector.

When Madelyn saw Anna,she told Emilia the woman used to take care of her as well. Which explained why she was so good at helping Emilia get ready. She even managed to ask Anna about Madelyn,though she didn't dare say she was friends with a ghost.

Mr.Charles had told her about ghosts. They were mainly scary stories and completely unlike what Madelyn appeared as. She though a couple times to tell Mr.Charles but then she thought he might think her as crazy.

Today Mr.Walter had taken them too a park. They both enjoyed on the rides,and when they were too exhausted they had to rest on the swings.

But suddenly the day was ruined. Another car had pulled up,an old man getting out and walking over to Mr.Walter who had previously been watching them play.

Madelyn had gasped after seeing him, " It's Grandpa! "

And before they could understand anything the old man had raised his hand and slapped Mr.Walter so hard that his head was jerked!

" You dare bring her?! "

The old man had bellowed in anger,but Mr.Walter smoothly turned back to glare. His next words stunned them all.

" Naturally,she's my daughter no? "

Emilia was in shock,Mr.Walter couldn't see Madelyn,which meant the only one he could be talking about...was her.