Like Wind On A Dry Branch

Like Wind On A Dry Branch summary: After Casarius, the Count of Cevitas, passed away, Rieta Tristi was destined for vivisepulture, an ancient ritual where a person is buried alive alongside the deceased as a sacrifice. The practice was thought to appease the gods during a plague that had already taken the lives of many, including Rieta's first husband. To worsen matters, the same person who had sold her daughter into slavery was the one arranging her sacrificial burial. Despite the dire circumstances, Rieta was willing to accept her fate. However, the ceremony was abruptly halted by the unexpected arrival of the Archduke of Axias Manor. Widely known for his cruel and violent reputation, the Archduke was there to settle a debt, but instead found a wooden coffin in place of the expected sacrifice. Intrigued by Rieta's stoic demeanor, he proposed a deal to the late Count's son, offering to forgo the debt in exchange for Rieta's life. Suddenly freed from inevitable death, Rieta found herself living in the Archduke's manor as his consort. Her sharp magical skills were utilized to better the lives of those within the castle walls, and as she carried out her duties, she became increasingly interested in discovering more about the enigmatic Archduke. Despite his past behavior, he had shown her compassion when no one else would, and she was determined to understand him better.