The Demon Lord confirmed, admitting that he found her amusing. She didn’t know whether to be insulted, flattered, or thankful. Truly she felt an overwhelming mixture of all three, but more grateful than wounded and more flattered than offended. Mina wasn’t too keen on serving as his entertainment for whatever cryptic reasons he harbored, but it was far better than being subjected to the fire and fury she anticipated upon accidentally summoning a powerful demon. She wouldn’t injure him by appearing wary of his intentions, though she was. As he commanded the darkness of her shadow, molding it before her very eyes into a perfect, smiling clone she stepped back a bit. All the while, she marveled at the likeness. Down to the beauty mark on her cheek left cheek bone and every fleck of silver etched in her crystal blue eyes. The smile was slightly off, too bright and too cheery for a mellow, laid back young woman who hid her heart behind sarcasm and indifference . . . for various reasons. Still, she shivered to think of what Syn Night could do with true knowledge of her personality and demeanor. Already the mimic made her question her own existence.<br/><br/>The Void territories. She was somewhat familiar with them, not as well-versed as her peers, but enough to understand the nature of his abilities—or what she could with her limited knowledge, not to short change herself. It was unlikely that anyone, witch or warlock, truly comprehended the intricacies of the inherent capabilities of S-class demons. In short amount of time, Syn seemed to understand her better than she understood him. A smile finally curled onto her lips at his words, “I don’t pay as much as attention as I should, but I’ve gotten this far without ancient tomes and boring history lessons.” Despite her confidence, she found herself wishing that she had. “I’m Wilhelmina Gregory, your charge. You can call me Mina.” She said, relaxing finally. Her grip on the worn book that she clutched to her chest like it was a shield loosened.<br/><br/>With the introductions out of the way, she found herself staring up at the midnight sky with him. Mina nodded, agreeing that the hour was late. Her bed was calling her name.<br/><br/>“I didn’t exactly prepare for this very well. I thought the summoning was to happen tomorrow night.” She said in her defense. She wouldn’t have been prepared then either. “Won’t you be missed in the nether realm? Who will watch over your territories in your absence?” She asked curiously, leading them in the direction of the mansion.<br/><br/>The path took them through trees and brush. Mina knew the grounds well, and though her attire was impractical her familiarity made her footfalls informed and careful. Regardless she teetered every now and then, even when they reached the old, cobblestone walkway flanked by tall, lush green hedges, trimmed and manicured to perfection. Closer to the estate, grand fountains and arbors with brilliantly colored blooms decorated the gardens. While they were aesthetically appealing, being picturesque like something out of a fairytale, all the flowers and plants served a purpose: potions, teas, charms, medicine. It was also very much alive. Vines seemed to move at the presence, as if acknowledging them. Bulbs blossomed in greeting, and while the silver shine of the moon lit their way fire flies floated about them.<br/><br/>Mina ascended the steps that led up to the back door, opening it to reveal an expansive kitchen bustling with maids who shrank in the presence of the Demon Lord, unable to withstand his weighty aura. The dark-haired witch smiled to see the women who fretted over her and tormented her at the crack of dawn clutch their rosaries and sink to the ground. Users of magic themselves, they recognized the power filled the room. “As much as I love seeing the maids buckle at the knees, I might tone it down if you can. They’re old crones, but I like them.” Women who did their best to raise her in a loveless home, she adored than more than her own parents who were never around.<br/><br/>One of the women gave her a swat at her ankles, tripping her up a bit as she giggled and moved to the next room while the ladies collected themselves.