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Chapter Text

Part 1 – Becoming Wiegemilch

Chapter 1

I was sitting in my parlour relaxing with a cup of tea after a rather tense tea party. Well, I say I was relaxing, but honestly, I couldn’t shake the ever-growing headache that was my friend Florencia. I understand that the Caocipher of Ehrenfest was holding her son effectively hostage, but surely she can at least attempt to be more proactive in gaining factional support. Even if it must be done under Verbergen’s shroud. It was only last week another neutral house had arranged a star binding with a Veronican family. As the Veronican faction continues to grow we need to gather more support from the Florencian’s to maintain the balance, but I can only do so much myself.

Does she forget that I’m an archnoble, not an archduke candidate like her?! I should not hold the responsibility of being an Ehrenfest pillar.

Well such thoughts won’t change anything. I will still try to keep the peace while leading the Florencia faction. We just had to sit through a tea party while Florencia demurely accepted insult after insult about her unstable position in the duchy even after all these years. Sure the insults were vague and concealed under Grammaratur’s grace, but she still sat by while a mednoble insulted her. If something doesn’t change soon the duchy will reach a point where it becomes untenable. The Leisegang will not keep Dultsetzen’s grace forever.

What can I do to stop them revolting when the suffering continues with no sign of abating?

I was interrupted from my spiralling thoughts when an ordonnanz entered the parlour and landed on my arm.

“Elvira this is Ferdinand, I have something to discuss with yourself and Karstedt, will you be free for dinner in three days time?”

My my my. Now isn’t this a rare treat.

I schooled my expression to better reply in a calm voice.

“Lord Ferdinand this is Elvira I would be delighted to accept your invitation.”

I sent the ordonnanz off and turned to my attendants who had already started discussing correspondence and what would need to be arranged. My cup of tea had already grown a bit cold, but with something to look forward to on the horizon I was finally able to relax for the evening.

*

The three days leading up to the dinner went by painfully slowly, but finally we were here. I alighted from the carriage as Karstedt escorted me into Ferdinand’s estate. I was apparently doing a somewhat poor job of concealing my excitement as even my simple-minded husband seemed to notice. Though he at least looked pleased that I was in a good mood.

In truth I was actually a little anxious. I have no idea what Lord Ferdinand has been up to as of late. The last I heard he had Eckhart help him with some investigation or other, but that was a season ago now. And before that, well…

Before that was when we lost Heidemarie. I knew Lord Ferdinand wasn’t the type to show grief, and enough time has passed that today’s discussion is unlikely to be about my late daughter-in-law. I just hope that whatever Lord Ferdinand wants to discuss can involve Eckhart in some way. The day he set off during Summer to assist Lord Ferdinand was the first time in a long time that I saw some light return to my son’s eyes.

I made sure to properly school my features in time and we met with Lord Ferdinand in his foyer. We exchanged noble greetings and then proceeded to the dining room for dinner. The food was excellent as expected, well, to be more exact, the food was free of Ahrensbach’s over seasoning and spiciness, which is sadly becoming all the more commonplace at dinner parties lately. It was more of a struggle than usual to keep up with polite small talk during the dinner. I found myself quite impatient for the upcoming discussion as my mind whirled with scenarios and possibilities. Realistically there was only one reason Lord Ferdinand would use a dinner invitation as a means of holding a discussion. He wants a favour. As much as I would be happy to help him, I need to remember to ensure I can benefit from this, or better yet, if I can get something to help with my increasing burdens as Ehrenfest’s unofficial pillar.

After dinner we settled in Lord Ferdinand’s parlour with refreshments and he cleared the room. Once all of our attendants had left, he activated a ranged sound barrier.

“That’s quite a few precautions you’ve taken to keep this conversation under Verbergen’s shroud Lord Ferdinand.”

I looked over at my husband, but he didn’t seem to show the surprise I was expecting.

Interesting.

“Elvira” Ferdinand began “I will not dance with Grammarature, I’ve asked you both hear in hopes of you hearing my request. But first if I may confirm, have you heard the recent rumours surrounding a temple shrine maiden and the recent trombe subjugation?”

“Of course, not that I gave them much credence though. The knights order has been abuzz about a devouring commoner with an abundance of mana. Most seem to think it an exaggeration though, there’s simply no way for someone with the devouring to amass that much mana. They’d greet the supreme couple long before that was possible.”

Again Karstedt was following the conversation, but he didn’t seem at all surprised. Ferdinand nodded along to my explanation before stopping to think for a moment.

Is THE Lord Ferdinand hesitating. What in Geduldh’s name is he about to ask of us.

“The rumours are true. The girl’s name is Myne and I would ask you to adopt her.”

Finally Karstedt seemed surprised at that, but we were both a little too stunned to reply, he wants to raise a devouring commoner girl to archnoble status, just what does he see in her?

“After the trombe subjugation I realised that Myne has more mama than Aub Ehrenfest. She is also extraordinarily smart, far too smart for someone without access to a noble’s education. In truth I was concerned that she may be a spy sent here to bring harm to Ehrenfest. With that in mind I borrowed the memory reading tool to ensure she had no ill intentions.”

Wait wait wait wait, he used a tool designed for the most heinous criminals just because he couldn’t comprehend a young commoner girl being exceptional. Karstedt doesn’t seem surprised by that part, so he must have known. Likely Lord Sylvester knew too. Did these three idiots really do that to a little girl.

Lord Ferdinand went on to tell us about little Myne’s ‘dream world’ as she apparently calls it. To say I was stunned would be quite the understatement. If it were anyone else, I would have thought they’d lost their mind. A high-class noble girl from an advanced civilisation obsessed with books who died and was bought back to life as a poor commoner girl?! It’s insanity.

“If we can guide her correctly, she will be incredibly valuable to Ehrenfest. I intend to educate her so that she is not an embarrassment to you, but I would ask for your help with this Elvira. There is much I would be unable to teach her as a man.”

This time my reply was immediate “Of course. I would be happy to teach someone so promising, especially if I end up becoming her Wiegemilch. However, I will not decide whether or not to accept her as my daughter before meeting her.”

“I understand.”

We made a few more arrangements for me to meet young Myne in the future and drew the far too stimulating dinner party to a close.

As Karstedt and I returned home we decided to speak in my hidden room about the events of the day. I realised far too late that in my surprise I completely forgot to gain any benefits for myself, but there was something else about our conversation that stuck with me…

“Did Lord Ferdinand seem more expressive to you Elvira?”

“Yes, he did, I’ve also never heard him speak about someone else with such high praise… But why did he bring me into this discussion at all? I know full well that he would normally use yourself and Lord Sylvester as a confidant, but he’s never shown trust in me like that before.”

“I was a little surprised myself, but I’m glad he did, I could definitely use someone with your council on how to navigate this in the future.”

Huh. Since when has Karstedt appreciated my council, he never normally seeks out my advice.

With far more questions than answers we both retired for the night. My plans to sneak to the temple and visit this mysterious young girl in place. Ferdinand spoke of her qualities, but not her personality. I wonder what she’s like…

Chapter Text

Chapter 2

Today was the day I was finally going to get to meet the girl who had occupied so much of my thoughts recently. Today I would meet Myne after Lord Ferdinand told me about her a long eternity ago. Okay it’s actually been less than a week, but I can surely be forgiven for losing some of Dultsetzen’s grace. Afterall this is not only the girl whose rumours were spreading increasingly quickly. But also the girl Lord Ferdinand seems to hold in high regard, and the reason he approached me for help. I certainly felt a little giddy that he decided to entrust me with something so important, after all Lord Ferdinand is unfortunately not a very trusting man.

During the past week I had been gathering information about the rumoured girl, and although most of what I gathered was already known to me, there was one interesting titbit that had previously escaped my notice. It seems Lord Ferdinand has declared Myne to be under his protection. While I would be quite happy about Lord Ferdinand finding someone to actually care for in this duchy outside of his brother, it’s unfortunately not likely to last. The girl likely resents him a great deal for searching her memories. I will need to find out if the relationship between them is at all salvageable. While what Ferdinand did is truly terrible, it’s also true that by his own twisted logic he was trying to help her, or at least to find a way to justify the protection he placed on her. If some level of guardianship can be maintained than the girl would be all the safer, after all she has garnered far too much attention already.

It came time for me to leave the estate so that I could take a carriage to the temple. Of course, as a respectable noble lady I would never dream of visiting a place of such disdain. The solution would be to sneak out using the servant exits. Eckhart was accompanying me today under the guise of protecting his mother. A very honourable lie from my son I must say. He just wanted an excuse to go serve Lord Ferdinand. I didn’t mind though; Gods knows he could use the distraction. And my son is now an adult, I would never condone him sneaking about causing mischief when he was a boy, but now that I’m the one doing it, I get to share in the silliness of it all with him. Well, that was the plan at least.

“Honestly Mother, we’re just using a different exit to the estate and taking a carriage ride, it’s hardly that big of a clandestine adventure.”

Well I suppose to a knight this is hardly that adventurous. However…

“I’m just feeling youthful again my son. When I was younger your Uncle Claudio and I would sneak out like this so we could watch the hunters of Haldenzel when they set out in Spring. Unless you’re suggesting I’m now too old to enjoy this?”

He briefly paled at that last remark before cracking a smile. It seems he’s a little wiser to my teasing these days, when he was younger, he would likely already be grovelling for forgiveness.

“I see, I shall have to share that story with Cornelius, I’m sure he would appreciate a better understanding of the propriety to which you set an example.”

That had me giggling, how long had it been since I could have fun moments like this with my children. Eckhart might be more like his father than me, but he at least has a little of my wit.

*

Once we arrived at the temple, we were greeted by a purple haired grey robe named Fran who was to escort us to the high priest’s chambers. As he guided us, I couldn’t help but notice how impeccable his etiquette was. He’s at least equivalent to a mednoble attendant. I can clearly see some of Ferdinands training in him, how surprising to find someone so skilled in gray robes.

Once we arrived, we exchanged greetings with Lord Ferdinand and I was finally introduced to little Myne. How could a seven year old be so small. She’s like a little shumil.

“Myne. This is Lady Elvira and Lord Eckhart. I have asked Elvira to come and provide you with some of the basic education that as a man I am unable to educate you in. As for Eckhart he is one of my retainers and my guard knight. He’s one of the people I had gather information before you joined the temple.”

“Ah, so he’s the one who broke into the merchant guild.”

Myne nodded to herself quite happily to have figured that out. I could see Eckhart look towards Lord Ferdinand a little uncomfortably. It seems he likely wasn’t supposed to have been caught out then.

I can see I’ll have my work cut out for me in educating Myne. If she had brought that up to reveal a weakness and elevate her position slightly, I would be thoroughly impressed. But it’s clear she just said the first thing that came to her mind without consideration to how to use that information. Well commoners aren’t really taught Grammartur’s dance anyway. I need to focus on assessing Myne’s character before anything else.

We concluded greetings and I was going to be directed to Myne’s chambers, at that point a layknight got up from one of the desks to accompany us. I looked over to Lord Ferdinand who explained that Damuel was here to guard Myne in the temple as punishment for failing to protect her during the trombe subjugation. Hmm, I will need to look into this further. It’s an unusual punishment, both too lenient for failing to protect someone, and too harsh for a commoner coming to harm. I’ll ask Karstedt later to explain the circumstances.

As we left the attendant from before scooped Myne up to carry her to the chambers. I realise she’s still rather small, but surely the walk would help her gain a bit of strength. I should be gentle when I probe her about this.

“Oh my Myne, will, you not be walking to your chambers?”

“Unfortunately I can’t walk that far, I’d likely pass out unless we walked exceptionally slowly.”

What?!

It was not a long walk, is the girl that frail. A headache was already forming before we arrived at Myne’s chambers, just how many weaknesses does this girl have?

*

We settled into the orphanage director’s chambers and I wasted no time in setting up a sound blocker. Honestly, I should try to let Myne host me for a tea party, it would be a good way to assess her, but from what I could tell she hadn’t been given much information on my arrival. She is very open with her emotions and expressions. Another weakness that will need to be ironed out in time, but for now it serves my purposes, I will have an easier time assessing her character if she struggles to deceive me.

“Myne, as Lord Ferdinand said I’m here to help with your education. To do that I’m hoping that you will tell me more about yourself, and more about your ‘dream world’. That way I can…”

I stopped what I was saying as Myne looked truly shocked, it was a valiant effort to hide her emotions, but alas, that definitely isn’t the girl’s strong suit.

“Myne, I understand if it’s difficult for you to talk about, we can discuss something else first if it would be easier.”

“High priest told you about my dream world?”

She practically whispered the question. I’d be enamoured by the cute reaction if I wasn’t so exasperated with Lord Ferdinand. I understand he doesn’t spend much time around children, but even an adult would have appreciated the warning that you shared this information. I’d already settled on trying to be direct with Myne based on what I saw earlier, but perhaps I was a little too blunt.

“It seems he hasn’t explained very much to you. Yes Myne, Lord Ferdinand has told me about your dream world, he said he looked into your memories and saw you came from an advanced world full of books, and that you were a high-class noble there.”

Hmm, I’ve been watching my words to not use euphemisms, so why does Myne look so confused?

“Huh? I wasn’t a noble, there were no nobles in my old country, I mean there were, but they’re all long gone.”

Ah, there’s that headache returning. Honestly Lord Ferdinand owes me some headache medication for all of this, how could he fail to communicate with this girl so badly?!

“I see, then Myne how did government work without nobles? I understand there was no mana from what Lord Ferdinand told me, but surely you still need leaders.”

“Well, nobles did used to fill that function, essentially hereditary rule to allow the system of government to continue was the norm in most countries. But eventually more efficient systems of government came into place, and the nobles all sort of went away, they either lost their power and transitioned gracefully. Or in some cases were removed through violence. It’s all pretty useless here though. Afterall nobles have mana. There’s a difference unlike in my old world, where the biggest difference between nobles and commoners was that there are more commoners than nobles.”

I couldn’t help but shudder at that. Yes we nobles have mana, but that isn’t what makes us nobles, after all Myne isn’t a noble, and she has mana. If Myne is implying that the number of people is the biggest difference, could she mean that we would be forced to be overthrown in the future. She spoke about it so casually, as if she isn’t hinting at armed conflict. Wait, she spoke about it casually because she’s uninterested. Could the status difference really not matter to her? It seems I’m going to have a lot of questions for this girl in the future, but for now I should really focus on learning more about her.

So far, I know she doesn’t seem to want to hoard power, she seems oddly kind natured, and is simply adorable. Well, I can’t let that last one sway me too much. I know! Let’s switch tracks to romance, it would normally be incredibly uncouth to discuss romance with such a young girl, but Lord Ferdinand mentioned that she had the memories of an adult woman. How often does one get the chance to hear romance tales from another world. I could feel a grin slipping on my face already, oh well, there’s no harm in loosening up a little in front of this girl. Yes, romance will be the perfect conversation topic, she will surely appreciate something more light hearted, and if I get a few new tales to tell, why, that’s naught but a bonus.

“Myne, can you tell me what romance was like in your old world?”

I do hope this will be interesting.

“Hmm, It’s a little different, I never experienced it though, but I’ve read a ton of books about it!”

Well that’s a little disappointing, but she seems so excited…

*

What a dreadful error. Who knew someone could discuss books for so long?!

Well I’ve mostly gotten what I need to know. Myne is fiercely intelligent, and quite considerate too. We spent bells speaking about her life in the lower city, the temple and some of it in her ‘dream world’. I don’t understand why she acts the way she does, but Myne is an adorable girl, completely uneducated on noble matters, but brilliant in everything else. I’ll need to discuss this with Karstedt if we’re to take Myne into our home.

Is that wise though? It would be an honour to have a daughter like Myne, but I can’t see a situation where she would agree to leave her family. Then there’s the issue of her frailty. There’s too much to consider all at once, for now I’ll continue to meet with Myne and actually start educating her now that I know what to focus on.

Hmm, maybe I should discuss this with Karstedt, he did mention trusting my council, perhaps he’ll listen to my concerns.

Chapter Text

Chapter 3

Lord Ferdinand does not possess wisdom.

I mean sure, he possesses immense intelligence, but there’s a difference between being smart and wise. I am truly in disbelief over how much he has misunderstood Myne. I have spoken to Eckhart and Karstedt to ask their opinions and even they have a better understanding of her nature. They’ve only met her a handful of times between them, and Lord Ferdinand sees her almost every day!

I’ve met with Myne almost a dozen times over the past season and as much as I’ve grown to respect her in a myriad of ways, I have come to one firm conclusion.

Myne will likely fail to gain wisdom.

She can almost match Lord Ferdinand’s intelligence, but no matter how much tutelage I provide she seems to fail to grasp certain things. Why does she not gain advantages for herself when working on her projects. She provided for an entire orphanage, and the reason?!

“I just can’t focus on my reading when there are starving children on the other side of the wall.”

It's not like I don’t sympathise. I’ve learnt how horrid the gray robes circumstances used to be. They were treated so much worse than even Myne realises. I fully understand why the orphans more or less worship her.

Myne saved them.

But! You don’t do all that work without looking for a benefit for yourself. Even with looking out for Myne I intended to gain a benefit for myself. I may have forgotten to do so, but the point remains.

A noble should always get a benefit for themselves and their house…

Myne isn’t a noble though. Myne grew up in a world without nobles. Is it truly possible her values differ that much. I’ll need to find that out during our next discussion. But first I need to have a very thorough discussion with Lord Ferdinand. I spoke to him after I first met Myne so that we could discuss our opinions on the little shumil. What I hadn’t expected was for Lord Ferdinand to think of her as an adult. It’s not just me though, Eckhart and Karstedt both think the girl is a child, although an admittedly strange one. It’s one thing to have the memories of an adult, and another to be an adult. Myne is clearly at the emotional level of a young child, perhaps even a little younger than her age. Though if you consider the fact she was bedridden up until 2 years ago, her being emotionally stunted is hardly a surprise.

What truly worries me though is the upcoming winter. Provincial nobles and Giebes have already begun gathering ready for the social season. I will hardly have time to visit Myne for most of the season. She’s already been told that she will need to remain in the temple for the entire season. I can’t help but worry that will be too isolating for the girl. I’ll need to ask Lord Ferdinand step up a bit to provide emotional comfort…

Actually never mind. He doesn’t know how. What a nuisance this has become.

*

In the end I couldn’t arrange a time to meet with Myne or Lord Ferdinand again before the slew of socialising began. I sent a magical letter to Myne so she could know the reason why, all I could do now was hope she would be fine for the season while I have to focus on the archducal family’s mess.

I really shouldn’t think like that. I’m doing this not for them, but for my home. For my Geduldh. Just focus on what you can do and it’ll work out. At least I hope…

I approached socialisation with the same vigour I always do. I had tea parties with the Leisegang Giebes first. I knew I would be unlikely to convince them to increase support for the archducal family, but I hoped to at least prevent them from turning more hostile against them. Well Count Leisegang was firmly against offering support, or even committing to not turning hostile. That said it seemed that the tide was turning somewhat with Kirnberger. Giebe Kirnberger might nominally be aligned with Leisegang, but he seemed to at least be probing information as to the state of the archducal family.

Is he looking to have retainers assigned to them, I wonder?

Well if he’s probing that is a good sign, or at least it was until he turned his attention to myself.

“Lady Elvira, I hear you have recently taken an interest in educating the young ward of Lord Ferdinand. I do wonder if your role as Erwachlehren is as a favour to the dark god who rules the heavens, or a favour to Verbergen in the absence of Wiegemilch?”

I had expected the more influential provincial nobles like Giebe Kirnberger to have heard of Myne’s existence. How could he not? But to imply that the archducal family have me acting as a nominal mother to an illegitimate child of an archducal candidate. Wait! How in the seven did this man even learn I was the one educating Myne?!

Calm down Elvira think this through!

 No matter how obscure that euphemism was. It was still directed to me in a blatantly obvious way. Giebe Kirnberger revealed that not only has the information about me educating Myne leaked, but he also offered a misinterpretable way for her to not be considered a commoner. He seems to be offering me a boon. But should I accept this line of conversation? It could change the narrative in the duchy favourably. But it could also backfire if the true information leaks.

 At the end of the day the risk that this backfires is on to the archducal family, not on to Myne. And she’s the one I’ve been worrying about lately.

It likely wasn’t going to be the smartest thing I’ve said in public, but:

“You are right to invoke Verbergen as I have become Erwachlehren to a true Mestionora under Schutzaria’s shield”

Well that can be interpreted countless ways. So that should at least not cause any trouble I can’t get out of.

I hope.

*

‘A noble should always get a benefit for themselves and their house.’

And I had the audacity to think Myne should be held to that standard.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4

The long winter is over, and Flutrane will soon wash away my melancholy. The rumours in the noble quarter have shifted dramatically concerning Myne. The Veronicans still maintain that there is an upstart commoner wreaking havoc in the temple. Where as the neutrals and Leisegang are speaking in hushed whispers about a powerful young noble girl of unknown origins. I am glad I accepted Giebe Kirnberger’s aid, but I do worry about how I will need to repay this favour in the future.

One positive of this long winter was the support of my husband. It still feels odd to consider that my Dark God is actually someone providing me with support after all these years. Yet here we are. With our biological children I have had enough control that I didn’t need to involve him with any of the decision making. I still made sure he was present as a good role model. But I was in charge of our son’s upbringings. With Myne though, I needed to constantly consult with him. Honestly, it wasn’t just Myne, but Lord Ferdinand too. The man was 20 now, surely he should have gained a little more experience in interpersonal relationships. Well perhaps not, he has been persecuted by Veronica and her ilk for so long now. The more I view him and Myne, the more I wonder which is the child. The little shumil has even started to bemoan Ferdinands eating and sleeping habits. Honestly, it’s like they’re an old married couple.

None of that mattered to me right now though. What was most important, was the fact that I was finally getting to visit the temple again. Who would have thought I would grow so attached to a child who wasn’t even part of my kin, to the point I would look forward to visiting the temple of all places.

I had been corresponding with Lord Ferdinand via magic letter during the season, and he had expressed concern that Myne had been ignoring my teachings? I don’t overly understand how, Myne is more than capable of etiquette far above her current station. She is also not the type to slack on her duties. I will need to question Lord Ferdinand about his later. For now, I had a tea party hosted by my adorable little student to attend.

This would be the first tea party Myne would be hosting, after which Lord Ferdinand had agreed to create a hidden room with Myne. As distasteful as it was, it made sense. Myne was too frail to have a hidden room where only she could access. If she fell unconscious, she may end up greeting the supreme couple without anyone else being able to access the room. I would prefer that I was the other to have access to the room as a woman, but I don’t reside in the temple, so Lord Ferdinand really is the only option. It’s been two seasons and I’m still surprised that Myne trusts Lord Ferdinand so much, especially after he searched her memories. I have a few things I want to discuss with Myne that I’ve been waiting for. Now that she’ll have a hidden room, it’s finally time. But first, the tea party.

I arrived at Myne’s chambers to start the tea party, during which Myne offered me her noble greetings. Her movements showed even more improvement since I had last seen her. She had clearly not slacked on her training. We exchanged greetings, which were perfect, then moved onto the tea party proper. Myne acted as an exemplary host, she made sure I was catered to, never slipped in her movement, even showed more enthusiastic use of euphemisms than I would have expected of her. I kept pushing the limits of what she could handle with noble conversation until she seemed to no longer grasp the conversation, but it took quite a while. She’s easily as educated as an academy student in their senior years, not quite an adult, but darn close. I was proud, but how had she managed this. It’s been a season, she hasn’t socialised with nobles, and she’s made years worth of progress?

We concluded the tea party and Lord Ferdinand arrived to create the hidden room with Myne. I was surprised by the pang of jealousy I felt to not be the one creating a hidden room with Myne. Ah, I had put off making a decision about accepting her as a daughter, but honestly, I want to call this brilliant young girl family. I need to stay objective though. Having Myne as a daughter would indeed be a happy occasion, but is it for the best? I still don’t have an answer to that, but now that she has a hidden room for us to converse with in, I may get closer.

Myne had a simple table and a couple chairs put in her room as the basics for now. I couldn’t help but notice that the rooms walls were carved in the shape of shelving, perfect for keeping books. Honestly, this girl can’t not involve books in anything. Her attendants served us tea, then left so that it was just us in the room.

There was a lot we could now talk about, which was long overdue, but I wanted to discuss today’s tea party first of all.

“Myne, you did wonderfully today at the tea party. I am so proud of your progress. I wanted to ask though; how did you manage to improve so much since my last visit? Ah, and feel free to forgo Grammaratur’s dance, this is a hidden room. It’s where one can truly express themselves.”

Myne’s expressions fully lit up at that. Wait, that’s more than lighting up, I quickly grabbed a feystone from my pouch and pressed it to Myne’s head, only for it to turn to gold powder. I stared at the powder which fell over the newly placed table when Myne began to talk.

“Ah, I’m sorry about that. The high priest has said I need to do better at keeping my emotions in check, but I was really happy to hear your compliments Lady Elvira”

She can powder feystones from a simple compliment, just how unstable has she grown this season?!

“As for my improvements, well…” Myne trailed off and looked down shyly while her cheeks started to flush red. “I saw how graceful you were, and you were always so nice, so I asked my attendants Wilma and Rosina to teach me to act more refined…”

At this point Myne was refusing to look at me, as if the barren wall of this empty hidden room was the most interesting thing in the whole country.

I wanted nothing more than to indulge in Myne’s embarrassment.

Does she really see me as a role model already?

However I needed to discuss other things today, so I moved on and spared Myne from her embarrassment.

“Myne, I wanted to ask you about your dream world again. There’s something I don’t quite understand. You treat the orphans quite well here, but you don’t derive any benefit from doing so. Is that something you were taught to do over there?”

It was the only explanation that made sense to me. We are taught to gain benefits, but Myne acts and puts in effort to benefit those other than herself. It’s like it’s her natural state of being.

“Hmm, not really. Orphanages in the dream world were run and funded by the state, children grew up there and were expected to have the same benefits and education that those with parents had. It didn’t always work out that way, and in the past orphans would often be mistreated. But here I couldn’t afford them the exact same opportunities. That’s why I have them make my products. That way I can keep them funded. Well, I at least can offer them some education. I made sure they all learnt how to read and write over the winter. They’ve managed some basic maths too.” Myne answered plainly, completely missing how stunning that explanation was.

That doesn’t answer my question as to why, if anything now I just want to know how. How on earth did she teach all that in a single season? I knew from Lord Ferdinands reports letters that she had been increasing the products she’s been making over the winter, so how did she have time to advance the orphans education that much?

“Besides,” Myne continued “I really needed them to learn to read, after all we’ll soon have a [printing press]. I even finished the [letter types]. We’re so, so close!”

Hmm, I can guess from the odd words that Myne must be bringing over some product from her dream world. I’ve tried not to pry into her business affairs as I want to gain her trust first, but I’m worried. Myne is far too excited about whatever this new venture is…

“Oh my. You seem to be quite happy about your new creations, I wonder if you’d be willing to let me share in the excitement.”

Myne’s face turned into a pout as her cheeks puffed up. “I would happily show you once they’re ready, but I’ve been told it won’t be until late spring at the absolute earliest.”

Well at least she is willing to show me these new inventions. I’ll need to warn Lord Ferdinand later. Whatever a [printing press] is, it’s bound to cause one of us a headache. Hopefully him this time. Well, with Lord Ferdinand on my mind, I should get around to my other question.

“Well, I for one look forward to seeing your patience for this creation rewarded” I began softly “Now Myne, I’ve been informed by Lord Ferdinand that you haven’t been abiding by the lessons I gave you during your stay here during the winter. Could you tell me what it is that you may have done?”

I needed to ask gently, I’ve no right to scold the girl, I’m not in a position to do so. However, Myne seemed confused more than anything. She quickly denied acting out in anyway, and I chose to trust in her earnestness for now. I’ll need to check with Lord Ferdinand to find out what he’s referring to.

*

While, I still haven’t figured out why Myne acts the way she does, but that’s fine. There’s no real rush. With my more pressing questions out of the way I spent the rest of my time there having Myne regale me with tales of her winter in the temple. She certainly seems to have struggled with her loneliness away from home.

Ah, it seems I’ve finally reached my decision. I can’t adopt Myne. She may be precious, but I won’t rob her away from her family. I’ll speak to Karstedt and Lord Ferdinand, hopefully we can find another way to keep this girl safe.

Chapter Text

Chapter 5

Myne receiving her hidden room meant we could begin our lessons on emotional control. It was especially important for Myne who had both far too much mana, as well as far too little experience in keeping her emotions in check. Unfortunately, we only had a few lessons before Myne had to leave for spring prayer. It should have been more, but I needed to lay the groundwork if my plans for Myne’s future were to be accepted. I needed to socialise quite a bit if I wanted the rumours to spread.

Information control might not have been my favourite topic when I took the scholar course, but I’ve had years of tea parties for practise. Compared to what I usually need to do, this is easy enough to be laughable. The first stage of my plan is to ‘let slip’ hints about Myne’s ‘true’ origins at various tea parties. Nothing firm, just a few clues in different places for the curious minded to exaggerate on.

Who knew Caocipher and Ordoschnelli could conspire together in such harmony.

So far Myne had at least half a dozen rumoured Fathers. The most popular theory is that she’s Karstedt’s daughter from an affair. Some speculate she was hidden away from Veronica as the daughter of either the late Lord Adelbert, or Lord Bonifatius’s secret daughter. Though that one is less popular due to Lord Bonifatius’s known disdain for the temple. A few Veronican’s even believe she is Lord Sylvester’s secret daughter of Arensbach lineage. Honestly, that would make a lot of sense had no one ever met Lord Sylvester before. The man only had eyes for Florencia.

Though the two truly outlandish rumours are that she is a hidden princess from the civil war, or that she is Lord Ferdinand’s daughter. Both rumours are more often told as light hearted quips while people have fun speculating. To be fair it would make sense given her mana capacity. But no one takes it that seriously. Lord Ferdinand has a known disdain for women, and would be too young as well. And there’d be no way Ehrenfest would shelter a hidden royal, we’re far too low ranking.

Unfortunately that oaf the high bishop appears to still be spreading that Myne is a commoner. But it’s fine though, I’ve managed to set up the groundwork I need. Normally information control is about spreading the narrative you want people to believe, this time though no one knows the truth or how to get it.

It’s perfect.

Afterall as nobles we always have to be cautious. Our mistakes are wide spreading, and can affect not just ourselves, but also our house. No reasonable noble would risk going against someone when they have no clue who they’d be making an enemy of. Now Myne would be a lot safer in Ehrenfest.

Once Myne and Lord Ferdinand return from the spring prayer I’ll be able to tell them the rest of my plan.

*

Another interesting development is that Karstedt and I had been spending a lot more time together as of late. It all started after I got Myne to tell me about some of the romance stories from her world. She seemed thoroughly bemused when I got flustered and told her to never bring them up outside of her hidden room. As shameless as they often were, there were a few ‘classic stories’ as Myne described them which struck a chord with me. I’d brought one of them up with Karstedt over dinner one evening.

It was a tale of a young woman who was pressured to cancel her engagement to a military man due to his lack of distinguishments in service. Myne couldn’t remember what the lady was up to in the meantime, but they reunited by chance some 9 years later, only to both still be unwed. It seemed the man had earned distinguishments, wealth and had even become a captain, while the lady’s family had fallen on less fortunate times. After their chance meeting the man left a letter for the lady, confessing that his raffle for her had never fallen, and hoping they might once again be together.

I was just happy to chat about new romance tales with my husband, but I hadn’t expected him to draw inspiration, when that very evening my attendant arrived with a letter Karstedt had written for me before retiring for the night. It might not have been filled with Grammaratur’s careful refinement. But it did convey his gratitude for always being his light in the darkness that could guide his path. We certainly haven’t been close after a number of years, but I didn’t intend for the story to inspire him in this way.

I won’t get my hope up, but it seems he does still value me as his Goddess of light.

*

Karstedt had to escort Lord Sylvester for the last couple of weeks, while I was soon to meet with Lord Ferdinand once he and Myne return to the temple.

It was a few days after their scheduled return that I was returning to the temple. Eckhart was escorting me as usual, still happy for this time to see his master. I was of course happy to see Myne and Lord Ferdinand, but I was even happier to see my son start to smile a bit more. It seemed serving Lord Ferdinand gave him a bit more of the purpose that he needs right now.

We arrived at the temple and were escorted to Lord Ferdinand’s chambers, where I could finally discuss the future I had in mind for Myne. Once we arrived it was time to exchange greetings, and I froze. I quickly regained my composure, but surely it can be forgiven when sitting around the table with Lord Ferdinand was my husband and our Aub.

Why in the seven is the esteemed Aub Ehrenfest wearing blue robes?!

Karstedt gave his Lord a tired look, while Lord Sylvester seemed quite amused by my reaction. “Elvira, it’s good to see you again, I wanted to compliment you on the progress you’ve made with Myne. Ferdinand has been giving me updates on her for a while now, but the transformation I saw during spring prayer was something else. She’s really like a little archnoble girl now.”

I thanked him for the compliment while my mind raced. So this is why Karstedt had been busy with Lord Sylvester, they went on spring prayer?!

We wasted no time on the usual small talk before a sound proofing barrier was erected. Lord Ferdinand turned to me. “Elvira, you’ve known Myne for a few seasons now, have you decided if you’ll adopt her as your daughter?”

Well, here goes nothing. “I’m sorry to disappoint you Lord Ferdinand, but I do not believe that’s in everyone’s best interests. Myne is a very talented girl who would bring honour to the Linkberg house. But that’s not what she wants, nor is it necessary.” I looked around to see the disappointed expressions of the three men around me. It seems I’m not the only one who’s grown a bit fond of that little shumil. “I would suggest Myne stay as a blue robed shrine maiden. She’s too attached to her family to be separated from them, and despite how mature she may seem; her emotional maturity is not at a point where it can take such a loss. I am aware of the value Myne can bring to Ehrenfest, namely her mana and her inventions, but both can be done from the temple.” Karstedt and Lord Ferdinand both perked up at this, but Lord Sylvester’s expression became unreadable. “As a blue robe in the temple she can contribute her mana directly to the harvest by filling chalices. As for her products, well, she’s already creating things from her world to sell. She needs greater backing, but we can provide that without adoption. We can invest in her business ventures so that our names are attached to them. We’ll also have her occasionally visit Karstedt and my estate for a few days at a time, and have her return to the temple. I’ll be able to keep up with her noble education for when she interacts with the nobility, and the public will assume she is a family member sent to the temple. I’ve already created enough ambiguity around her origins that we can claim whatever we want. Besides, once the rumours die down a little, most people will stop caring about a random girl from an archnoble house being sent to the temple. The temple normally isn’t discussed that much in the first place.”

Lord Ferdinand had a pensive look at my suggestion. “That could potentially work, but she will need to attend the academy off season if we are to proceed with your plan. Myne has far too much mana to control. She needs a schtappe to prevent another incident.”

Lord Ferdinand went on to explain what had happened during their trip. Myne was thankfully unharmed, but there were multiple kidnapping attempts of her. The last one endangered her temple attendants which had Myne fly into a rage. Apparently if they hadn’t had her redirect her mana into a shield, she might have launched an attack that could have crossed the Arensbach border. Lord Sylvester explained that the perpetrator is likely not from Ehrenfest and they’ve taken additional measures to protect the city and keep Myne safe.

Lord Ferdinand turned to face me directly. “You’re going through a lot of effort to keep Myne together with her family. Are you sure it is worth it?”

I made sure to meet his gaze head on “I am.”

We spent at least another bell refining my plan and going over the finer details, though Lord Sylvester didn’t contribute much to the conversation. He had a guilty look about him.

Chapter Text

Chapter 6

We were in Myne’s hidden room again today. I was here for around half a bell with her before Lord Ferdinand would be arriving for us to have lunch. A lunch with Lord Ferdinand would normally put me in a good mood. However, I was feeling a little anxious as today we were going to be discussing our plans with Myne. Before that though, I’d set aside this time so I could ask Myne how her first spring prayer went.

Strictly speaking, there was no need for this conversation to be happening in a hidden room. However, I’ve been told that Myne has only used her hidden room once by herself, and I want to get her used to the idea of spending time in here. Afterall a hidden room is especially useful for Myne who still sometimes struggles with her emotions. Apparently Myne was quite eager to use the hidden room at first, and was even allowed to bring a book in with her to relax and read…

I’m told it was quite the fuss when Lord Ferdinand finally opened the room to tell her to come out. Apparently she completely lost herself in her reading and didn’t notice her attendants many calls. Since then, she’s been banned from taking books inside, and has largely lost interest.

I wanted to make the most of today as it was the last day Myne was sequestered in the temple. After this she’d be back to commuting from her home. Between that and the start of the archduke conference, this will be my last chance to speak with Myne for a few weeks.

With a long carriage trip around the Southern parts of the duchy, as well as the attempted kidnappings, I had expected a few points of complaint. What I hadn’t expected was…

“Brother Sylvester is such a man child!” Myne didn’t even bother hiding her frustration as she puffed out her cheeks.

What a pain. I can’t even advise her to not complain about him. He didn’t want Myne to know he’s the aub. Turns out this was a conversation we needed to have in a hidden room. If anyone else heard…

“First! He pulls out my hair stick and almost breaks it! These things are delicate you know. Then he starts poking me in the cheeks and tells me to say Phooey. What does that even mean?!”

Pfft! It means you’re a little shumil with inflated cheeks!

I somehow held a straight face despite fully understanding Lord Sylvester’s teasing. Although it is a bit much for a grown man to tease a little girl like that.

Man child indeed!

“During one of the evenings he even blatantly commented on the smell of my food so that he could request some! I’m even more grateful for your teachings thanks to that Lady Elvira. As all blue robes are supposedly equal, I kept my poise and told him ‘Gebordnung will not aid your inability to claim Cuococalura’s protection. Shouldn’t someone of your station be better acquainted with Meestionora?’ ” Myne was beaming at that, she clearly wanted praise.

I would praise her if I wasn’t horrified. Although the fault should lie with our esteemed aub who apparently likes to play dress up. Myne had wonderfully asserted that not only was he not above her, but he was too stupid to realise it!

Said the commoner to the archduke.

Myne did relent that immaturity aside, ‘Brother Sylvester’ was actually a good person in her eyes. He’d praised her care of the orphans. He even took them to the forest and he donated his hunted spoils to their pantry.

We chatted a bit longer before Myne’s attendants called us for lunch.

*

As was becoming common with anything to do with Myne, even a simple lunch defied logic. The food was remarkable, each course something I’d never seen before. I’d eaten the cookies Myne usually served alongside tea, but I had no idea she had expanded on cuisine this much. All of this food could be the start of powerful trends if Myne wished. Which reminds me, I really need to find out about the products Myne is creating with her merchant associates. I still haven’t seen whatever printing is.

Though none of that stunned me as much as Lord Ferdinand’s actions during the meal. I looked towards Eckhart who was standing guard behind his Lord, only to find him equally shocked. Lord Ferdinand ate heartily, after only the most cursory of poison checks no less! And he didn’t even seem shocked by the food. Have they already shared meals? It would surprise me if Lord Ferdinand would put himself in such unnecessary risk of poisoning.

Voicing my confusion. “Oh my Lord Ferdinand, you seem quite accustomed to these wonderful dishes?”

Lord Ferdinand merely nodded in my direction. Myne however was happy to explain. “Yes, I invited the High Priest for lunch to practise my etiquette over the winter. We only normally eat together once or twice a week though.”

…

…

What?!

*

With the far too stimulating lunch over, we had tea served. Lord Ferdinand erected a sound proof barrier and began his explanation.

“Myne, Elvira and I wanted to discuss the plans we have for your future. We know you don’t wish to be adopted by a noble, so we believe we have found a suitable option to allow you to remain with your family.”

Myne had an appropriately cautious look on her face while Ferdinand explained our plans. She remained quiet until the end.

“So, I’ll remain a blue shrine maiden, and everyone will think that I’m a member of Lady Elvira and Lord Karstedt’s family who was sent to the temple for unknown reasons, then attend some magical school in secret?”

Lord Ferdinand reached over and pinched her cheeks. “Don’t give the royal academy such a ridiculous title you fool.” He promptly released his grip on Mynes’s face “And it would be more accurate to say your attendance will not be advertised. You should easily be able to test out of the scholar course while the other students aren’t attending. It is essential you attend the academy to gain a schtappe. We can’t allow another incident like spring prayer to happen. A schtappe will allow you to bring your mana under control.”

Myne nodded in understanding before glancing over at me sheepishly. “But wouldn’t I be a burden for you Lady Elvira? You’d essentially be declaring me as a member of your family.”

“Oh ho ho, is that what you think Myne? To tell you the truth this plan was my idea. Karstedt and I were originally considering adopting you. But we didn’t want to separate you from your family. We can still adopt you if that’s what you’d prefer?”

I gave Myne a teasing smirk while she vehemently shook her head.

I gently placed my hand on her head. “Myne, you really are a remarkable girl, I have no intention of allowing you to suffer because of our actions.”

We confirmed some more of the minor details with Myne and ended the lunch meeting on a bright note. Myne really does have a bright future ahead of her, she’ll need the continued protection of those around her to ensure it.

Chapter Text

Chapter 7

The archduke conference was in full swing, and there was more back and forth in the castle as always. I was sitting in my office going over the estates budget and trying not to think of the confusing ordonnanz I received from Lord Bonifatius earlier in the afternoon. Apparently Karstedt and Lord Sylvester had both returned to the duchy unannounced and promptly headed off together without any additional guard?

While I was lost in my thoughts the most wonderous thing happened. A truly beautiful blessing befell me, as if it was an act of the Gods.

I glanced at my attendant in the room, but she looked just as baffled as I felt.

It was a couple bells later that Karstedt came home with a troubled expression on his face.


Part 1 End

Chapter Text

Part 2 – Wiegemilch Knows Best

Chapter 1

“Mother hurry up, we’ll be late!”

I chuckled. “Rozemyne dear, please seek Dultsetzen’s grace. The carriage won’t even be ready yet.”

*

While I was lost in my thoughts the most wonderous thing happened. A truly beautiful blessing befell me, as if it was an act of the Gods.

I glanced at my attendant in the room, but she looked just as baffled as I felt.

It was a couple bells later that Karstedt came home with a troubled expression on his face.

Karstedt motioned towards my hidden room, and we wasted no time in entering, forgoing any instructions to our attendants, or preparations for tea inside. Whatever’s happened must truly be troubling him.

“The high bishop attempted to kidnap Myne. She’s fine though, you need not worry about that, but I’ve just got back from having to perform a mind read on him. We got him Elvira; we got them both. The high bishop was executed for his crimes and Veronica is already in the white tower.”

“Karstedt, please start from the beginning, I need to understand what’s happened.”

At my urging, Karstedt explained what had been happening while we were all unaware. It seems Lord Sylvester had given Myne an adoption amulet under the instructions to use it if she’s ever in danger, but never explained to her what it did. She’s had it with her since they came back from spring prayer.

Apparently earlier in the day Damuel was escorting Myne and her father to the temple when they were beset upon devouring soldiers. While Damuel was fending them off, Myne and her father rushed to the temple where she gathered all of her attendants and had them hide in her hidden room with her father and her. Understanding the danger, Myne stamped her blood on the adoption amulet which alerted Lord Sylvester that she must be in danger.

By the time Karstedt and Lord Sylvester arrived at the temple Damuel had already contacted Lord Ferdinand, and they had the devouring soldiers as well as the high bishop in bands of light. He refused to answer any questions on where he obtained the soldiers, so Karstedt had performed the memory read on him. It turns out that Veronica and the high bishop had been trying to convince a Giebe from Arensbach to come and ‘acquire’ Myne. He refused as he was cautious of Myne’s obscure identity. Failing to convince him, Veronica instead forged the aubs seal, and purchased devouring soldiers under Lord Sylvester’s name.

Not only did that woman commit treason by forging the aubs seal, she risked permanently marring his name and reputation as someone who would purchase devouring soldiers. Has she actually gone insane?!

While Karstedt was viewing the high bishop’s memories Lord Sylvester and Lord Ferdinand went to Myne’s quarters to check on her in her hidden room. They were apparently worried when they saw her with her eyes closed in her father’s arms, until she wearily rubbed her eyes and wished them all a lazy “Good Morning”. Apparently knowing that those around her were safe in her hidden room afforded the girl enough reprieve to nap after all the excitement had worn off.

I didn’t try to hide the wry smile on my face. I truly understood how Myne must have felt. Just the retelling of today’s events has left me feeling exhausted. “So, what will happen with Myne now? We were set on her remaining a blue shrine maiden, but if Lord Sylvester adopts her, she’ll be an archduke candidate.”

“I’m sorry Elvira, I know you were set on her remaining attached to her family, but we can’t allow the risk of someone of the archducal family being connected to commoners like that. Lord Sylvester had her and her family sign a contract separating them. He heeded your advice as much as he was able to, but going forward they will never be able to call each other family unless they’re in a hidden room. We’ll need to work together to create opportunities for that, but it’s not going to be easy, and I doubt it’ll be often.”

I truly felt devastated, Myne clearly loved her family, and she had to be separated from, simply because she was too excellent for her station.

Karstedt proceeded to tell me the new backstory for Myne they had concocted together, and while I was sad a moment ago, I was infuriated now. All of the options available to us thanks to the rumours, and these 3 decide to have her be Rozemary’s secret daughter hidden in the temple?! It was a good thing we decided to forego the tea, else Karstedt would be wearing it right now!

Deep breaths Elvira, calm down.

I had been getting on so much better with Karstedt lately, so there must be a reason he would connect Myne to his late third wife who caused so much disruption in our house. Why couldn’t Myne just be considered my daughter?

Rozemary’s death was unexpected, and they never had children, is this his way of having something to remember her by? I inwardly sighed, of course it is. This straightforward man just misses someone he loved. He isn’t trying to disparage me, just remember someone who died too young.

I may never forgive Karstedt for bringing that woman to our house and foolishly supporting her in wreaking havoc. But I will never blame him for mourning a loss…

“So, our new daughter’s name is Rozemyne then.” I gave Karstedt a reassuring smile.

*

Rozemyne had been living with us for about a month before we had an opportunity to visit the temple. She had been hard at work dazzling her tutors and ruining their academic pride in equal measure. It seems our upcoming plans had left her with the need to abandon all restraint and finish her lessons as soon as possible.

“Mother hurry up, we’ll be late!”

I chuckled. “Rozemyne dear, please seek Dultsetzen’s grace. The carriage won’t even be ready yet.”

Rozemyne and I took the carriage to the temple where we were escorted to the high bishop’s chambers. We were technically there to inspect Rozemyne’s new chambers and make sure the furniture is all up to standard. It was a bit of a feeble excuse as we were claiming she was not yet baptised, but I wasn’t about top make her wait until Summer.

Waiting inside her quarters was Lord Ferdinand who quickly cleared the room of attendants. He waisted no time in pointing Rozemyne to the hidden room as she skipped off merrily.

I handed Lord Ferdinand a sound blocking tool. “Did you have much trouble getting them all here?”

“Plenty. Good grief, we are still dealing with the cleanup from Bezawanst and Veronica.”

I refrained from chuckling at his rather frank response. The man seems to let his true feelings show a bit more when it comes to Rozemyne, and despite grumbling, there was considerably less bite to his words than usual.

“Lord Ferdinand I want to ask you a rather direct question if I may?”

He nodded for me to continue.

“Why did you tell me about Myne and her dream world memories? I’ve been thinking about it for a while now, and usually you wouldn’t reveal something of this magnitude to anyone but your closest confidants, a group which I regrettably have never been counted in.”

He seemed to weigh my words for a moment before seemingly giving in and answering. “It happened after the mind read.  Myne was emotional, which is completely understandable for the circumstances, but she decided to fling herself at me for a hug. Me! A man in a hidden room. I thought it best to bring in a trustworthy noblewoman to explain how inappropriate her hugs are.”

I stared at the man in front of me completely dumbfounded. At this point I don’t know which of the 3 men deserve having my tea thrown at them more.

Of course she needs hugs. She’s a little girl. Children need comfort! That is normal!

Why are all the men I know useless?

Chapter Text

Chapter 2

Rozemyne was due to be adopted by the aub at her baptism in Summer. As was always the case when it came to pre-baptism children of the archducal family, her existence was a bit of an ‘open secret’. What that literally means, is that everyone in the duchy knows about her, they just normally aren’t crass enough to discuss her in public. Of course, this is Ehrenfest, where normalcy goes out the window at the slightest inconvenience.

“With a Leisegang princess as archduke candidate we can finally…”

I quickly tuned out my grandfather, the former Count Leisegang. Honestly, I saw no point in listening to him. I learnt years ago that if I say something he doesn’t like he’ll either pretend to be deaf and not hear me, or preferably, pretend to pass out.

I’ve heard my youngest son and his friends complain about him more times than I can count! I won’t take away Glucklitat’s trials from them by explaining. But I hope they soon realise he is so easy to ignore. The very defence he counterfeits in the image of a feeble old man; can be used against him.
 
With a line prepped to make him pretend to pass out, I start to ignore him so I can think about the past few days…

Geduldh knows these recent developments are more important than this fossil.

*

I’d been starting to socialise and hint at Rozemyne’s upcoming adoption. I was beginning with my Leisegang relatives so that when the information spreads, it would do so from friendlier voices.

Lady Florencia and I had just finished a rather tense tea party with Giebe Kirnberer, where he pushed for a daughter of one of his knights to serve Rozemyne, or the ‘Flutrane of Ehrenfest’ as he called her. If he could hide his ambition to use my daughter to fix this duchy then I might have been more agreeable. It didn’t miss my attention however that he didn’t mention exactly who it was he wanted to serve Rozemyne. He seems to at least be waiting for Rozemyne to debut before recommending someone specific.  

I understand his position, but that doesn’t mean I’m willing to allow my daughter to be manipulated to suit his whims. I’ll need to coach Rozemyne on how to not be led astray by her retainers.

This was the third tea party in as many weeks that ended up this way. The difference being that Lady Florencia asked me to stay behind so we could chat “as two old friends”.

 Why do I have a bad feeling about this.

“Elvira you’ve been so full of energy and vibrancy these last few seasons…” Lady Florencia was then far more direct than I’ve ever known her to be. “Were you part of Sylvester’s scheme to put Mother-in-law in the white tower?”

“I’m sorry Lady Florencia, but I wasn’t. I certainly am happy that it has finally happened, but even I wish we had more notice. I was just as blindsided by this as you were.”

Lady Florencia gave me a long considering look. After an unusually uncomfortable silence she seems to have found what she was looking for in my response and nodded.

She seems to believe me, but there’s clearly more she wants to say…

I would never normally press a matter such as this. Especially with someone of higher status like Lady Florencia, but I really felt it was worth the risk…

Rozemyne has really started to influence me it seems.

“Lady Florencia I know I act above my station in saying this, but please allow me to forego not just Grammaratur, but Gebordnung as well. Please tell me what is wrong my friend. We have faced all Glucklitat has to offer us in Ehrenfest, and we have faced it together. Please allow me to act not as an archnoble to an archduke candidate, but as one friend to another.”

Lady Florencia looked truly stunned for a moment before her usual bearing cracked before me.

In all the years I have known my friend, she has had a noble mask that is truly unrivalled, and in this private moment, she was openly crying…

“Sylvester courted me as his one and only Goddess. I was truly touched when he did, but… I need actual support! This duchy has been a nightmare, and the family Sylvester and I started should have been what saved me. But it wasn’t. My son was taken from me and Sylvester allowed it. Yet still I acted like a faithful light goddess to a dark god.
And finally… Finally. He. Acts. Against. Caocipher!
But he doesn’t act for my stolen son, or mistreated daughter… He acts for YOUR daughter Elvira!”

Lady Florencia is openly weeping now, and thankfully both of our attendants have the good sense to have turned away.

Honestly, I should be annoyed that she’s disparaging my daughter, but I know Lady Florencia is just at the end of her tether…

I walk up and wrap my arms around her, just as I often do with my new daughter.

I need to remember that my friend is still rather young for her station…

“Lady Florencia, I know that Glucklitat has seemed to be merciless to you since you’ve come to this duchy, but if you’re willing, I’d love to tell you why I’ve been more enthusiastic as of late. I assume my new exuberance is what caused you to question me after all?”

Florencia nodded, though she looked away as if shy to be caught out.

“It might be a little late in the conversation to say this, but I will forgo Grammaratur’s grace. Since Rozemyne has joined my family, I have been talking to the other members of my family more. But more importantly, I have been trying to understand them more. Both my eldest and my husband are in mourning over the women they love. I may be jealous that I am not the one my husband yearns for, but I realised that doesn’t matter. They can miss those who have ascended the towering heights, and still care for me all the same. Who knows, maybe my husband may come to love me in time. But either way, I want to continue to get closer to my family.

You have an opportunity to get closer to your eldest son again now don’t you Lady Florencia?”

Lady Florencia was still crying, but through her tears she gave me the most beautiful smile.

*

“…and that is how our clan should like to move forward, supposing your daughter is complaint?”

Oh right. Grandfather is still listening to himself talk.

“Grandfather perhaps it is time you leave Schlaftraum’s realm and join the rest of us. My daughter has not even had her debut yet.”

And just like that the old man has pretended to fall unconscious. I’ll let the younger generation figure out for themselves that they don’t need to pay heed to this old man. After all, I had to figure it out for myself…

Why does this oaf continue to keep the supreme couple waiting?”

*

Today I was due in the castle to aid Rihyarda in arranging Rozemyne’s room. I’d already convinced my friend Ottilie to become her retainer, and she was joining us today. Rihyarda seemed unhappy that Rozemyne wasn’t here to gain the experience of guiding retainers. I felt I needed to correct her on this, it might be an important step for a normal archduke candidate, but…

“Rihyarda. My daughter already has experience in guiding people and dealing out instructions. I’m not sure how much Lord Sylvester has told you, but my daughter manages an entire orphanage, as well as a lucrative workshop.”

Everything Rozemyne has told me about her life as Myne, shows that she has been building her autonomy. She was an adult woman who was no longer aloud to undress by herself, and she turned into someone who negotiated with experienced merchants, and then priests. There is no way I can let Rihyarda’s sense of normalcy hold her back.

“Lady Elvira, can you tell me more about your daughter? All Lord Sylvester has told me is that she’s a saint. He’s normally not this obstinate about something. I will become Lady Rozemyne’s attendant on his orders, but I would like to be a good attendant to her. It would help to know what kind of lady she is?”

I could feel myself light up at Rihrarda’s question.

This might be the first time I’ve been able to openly brag about Rozemyne.

We spoke about my daughter’s accomplishments and education for quite a while. It seemed I may have taken my bragging a bit far as Rihyarda seemed to doubt me more and more as I went on. Even Ottilie was giving me a sceptical look by the end. Well, no matter, I had already planned on teaching Rozemyne not to be led by her retainers, Rihyarda will make for a good example if she intends to underestimate my girl.

*

I had taken inspiration from my daughter and thought to relax with a book before going to bed for the night, when an ordonnanz arrived for me.

“Elvira, this is Karstedt. I will be staying late to review personnel files with the aub.”

Honestly, we’re going to need to find a new code for when those three are holing up for a drink. With all the recent upheaval, Karstedt has been ‘reviewing personnel files’ almost twice a week!

*

It was almost second bell when Karstedt came home. I could smell Vantole’s blessing oozing out of him even before he entered the building. I thought I’d need do nothing more than guide him to his bed, when he stopped me instead.

“You’ll hear about it soon enough Elvira, Sylvester and Florencia apparently had quite the argument about their son. I’ll let them give you the relevant details, but I’ve just spent the last few bells with Ferdinand trying to get him to understand the good of this new situation… They’ll soon ask to meet you to get your help in selecting a second wife for Sylvester.”

Chapter Text

Chapter 3

I had planned on giving Lady Florencia some space after she broke down in front of me. However, she invited me to a private tea party in 3 days. Karstedt and I were already planning to meet with the archducal couple that day to discuss their new plan to introduce a second wife.

I still want to know how Lady Florencia got her husband to agree. We’ve discussed the need of introducing a new bride to balance factions for years, but Lord Sylvester has always firmly refused. So why now?

II hope he isn’t considering Rozemyne for his second wife once she comes of age…

*

I spent the days leading up to the discussion at the castle at home. I had spent so much time with Rozemyne as of late that I wanted to spend today with Cornelius. He’s always been the youngest, so I hope he doesn’t feel cast aside by the recent addition to the family. Rozemyne was going to spend the day reading in the book room. On Lord Ferdinand’s advice I made sure to have an attendant carry her there, and keep an eye on her to make sure she takes breaks to eat and drink. She’s already fallen ill once since coming to live here, I’d rather it not happen again.

After making sure Rozemyne and the estates attendants were set, I went to join Cornelius for his morning harspiel practise. My son never enjoyed the harspiel, too much like his father in that regard, but he practises diligently nonetheless. I know it’s a requirement for a noble to learn, but I wanted to make sure his efforts were appreciated. He was currently practising a slightly trickier song he recently learnt. There were a few mistakes here and there that seemed to frustrate him, but he persisted until he finished the last scale.

I walked over to him and placed my hand on his head “It seems Kunstzeal favours you today Cornelius.”

“Mother, I’m too old for head pats you know.” He turned his head away as he said that so that I couldn’t see his expression.

My, my. too old for head pats, but still too young to hide his happiness at praise.

I thought better than to tease him and let him continue on to the next song, which he seemed to play with a little more enthusiasm than the last. While I sat with a cup of tea, Cornelius played a few more scores and then the harspiel instructor bade his leave, leaving just Cornelius and I in his room.

As Cornelius joined me at the table and started eating the cookies in front of him, I decided to say what had been on my mind. “Cornelius, I wanted to take a little bit more time to speak with you today. I know our home has gone through quite a lot of changes recently, so I want to hear your thoughts. You were hesitant to accept Rozemyne at first, but you two seem to get along well. I’m glad of course, but if there’s anything that troubles you, I don’t want you to think you can’t speak to me about it.”

Cornelius looked a little troubled before responding. “I did worry about Rozemyne bringing discord to our home like when father’s second and third wife used to verbally spar. But Rozemyne hasn’t disrupted the peace like Rozemary did. And… I can’t say I mind having a little sister.”

It was touching to watch Cornelius rush out that last sentence and then immediately stuff another cookie into his mouth. I decided not to tease him for it, and reminded him not to eat too many cookies as Lamprecht and Eckhart would be joining us for lunch today.

Well it turned out my efforts not to tease Cornelius were in vain as Lamprecht had no such reservations around his 2 younger siblings. Rozemyne was clever enough to leave Cornelus to his fate and focus on Eckhart, getting him to regale her with stories of his time at the academy. Well, they may have been stories that happened while Eckhart was at the academy, but they were all about Lord Ferdinand. His ditters against Dunkelfelger, his research with Drewanchel and his antics with professor Hirschur. There seemed to be no end to the tales about Lord Ferdinand, and Rozemyne and I were more than happy to listen. All the while Cornelius and Lamprecht looked disappointed that Eckhart and I were attempting to bring Rozemyne into the ‘Ferdinand fan club’ as they described it.

During desert I told stories from my childhood in Haldenzel, they were nothing my sons hadn’t heard before, but I wanted Rozemyne to learn a bit more about her heritage.

Rozemyne had just begun her lessons on the duchy’s geography, so she peppered me with questions. “So everyone in the province lives together during the winter?”

“That’s right dear, they live together in the winter mansion up until the spring feast, then the hunters will head north to cull feybeasts, while the farmers go south to begin planting their crops. That’s why the people of Haldenzel form such close bonds.”

“I’d love to see it myself, I’ll ask Ferdinand if I can perform spring prayer in Haldenzel next time.”

That had me smiling “I’m sure your uncle Claudio would be delighted to meet you if you do.”

Perhaps I can teach her our traditional song to send off the hunters? That too is part of her heritage now. Speaking of teaching…

“That reminds me Rozemyne, you’ve been working extremely hard on your lessons, your tutors and I are all very proud, but I don’t want you to get complacent. So, I’m preparing a special gift for you. If you learn everything you need to, I’ll give you your surprise after your baptism ceremony.”

Eckhart gave me a knowing smile, after all he was the one I tasked with acquiring the gift.

*

It was the day of the meetings with the archducal couple. I was currently sitting across from Lady Florencia with a sound barrier up.

“Elvira I wanted to thank you. I know it was unbecoming of me to break down at our last tea party, but after that I’ve honestly felt better than I have in years. More importantly I took your advice and spent some more time with my son, I decided to sit in on one of his lessons, and well…”

Florencia was hesitating on what to say next, whatever it was causing her expression to become rather bitter.

Florencia let out a long sigh before continuing “Honestly it could be worse, we’ve caught it early, but Veronica left Wilfried completely uneducated. We have no idea why she did this to him, but he’s already baptised and can’t even read. We’re being more active with his education now, but there’s no way for him to catch up in time for his debut, so we’ll be delaying it for a year.”

“Won’t that be a stain on his reputation?”

“It will. But as I said, it could be worse. I’ve already got Lebrecht spreading the information that this was an act of Veronica’s cruelty, and giving him another year will allow his social skills more time to improve as well, he’s far too naïve right now. But that’s not why I wanted to thank you Elvira. I wanted to thank you because your kind words have left me wanting to take action, the situation with my son is unfortunate, but for the first time in a long time I have a plan and I’m taking initiative with something. I finally feel in control.” The steeled glint in Lady Florencia’s eye was an expression I’d never seen on her before.

I don’t want to get my hopes up, but if Lady Florencia starts taking a more active role, then does that mean I can finally step back?

“Is that also why you want Lord Sylvester to take a second wife?”

Florencia went on to tell me about the fight she and her husband had after finding out about Wilfried’s situation. He was just as upset as she was about their son, but as he was the one who allowed Veronica to have her way, she spared no pity for his feelings. She then went on to say that she couldn’t cope without more support for the archducal family, and in his weak moment he relented to taking a second wife.

“There’s one more thing Elvira, I’d like to get to know your daughter. I was upset at first that Sylvester went so far for a child that wasn’t his own, but going forward she’ll be a part of the archducal family. I have no intention of robbing her from you, I can tell without asking how close you are to her. But I won’t let a child of this family suffer through the inaction of us adults again.”

I was a little upset that Lady Florencia would be taking away from the care I could show my daughter, but this is probably the best outcome.

*

Florencia and I having finished our tea party with plans for her and Rozemyne’s meeting, headed to the archduke’s office to discuss the second wife matter. We arrived to find the office already cleared, apart from Lord Sylvester, Lord Ferdinand and Karstedt. After getting the greetings out of the way the five of us began our discussion. Well, the four of us at least, it seems our aub was sulking instead of contributing. This didn’t escape the notice of the other three in the room. I might have been the only one who wasn’t able to talk back to Lord Sylvester about this matter, but I decided to be the one to bring him into the conversation anyway.

“Lord Sylvester, this will go a bit smoother if we know what you would need from a second wife. While we can all come up with plans, you’ll be the one having your stars tied with her.”

He apparently gave up on keeping any semblance of his usual aub gravitas as he heaved a resigned sigh. “Yeah I know, look, as long as she can get along with Florencia than it’ll probably be fine. Though I’d rather wait a bit before we look for someone, the factions are gonna be a mess with Veronica’s imprisonment, and Rozemyne’s adoption. I don’t think we should begin looking for another year at least, so that things calm down a bit, then I can aim to tie my stars with the lady in a few years time after Rozemyne and Wilfried have started attending the academy.”

Lord Ferdinand gave him a rather pointed look. “And you’re not just putting it off in the hopes circumstances change?”

Lord Sylvester hesitated to answer, he likely was putting this off, but that was fine honestly. “Actually, I believe Lord Sylvester has a point, the factions right now are a mess and we should use this engagement to help finish settling them in a years time. As long as it’s only a few years before the star bind than I support this plan.”

We settled on that as a tentative plan, and ironed out a few more details. Before adjourning the meeting I let out. “You know Lord Sylvester, I’m a little relieved, I thought you might have been considering an engagement to Rozemyne to bring you Leisegang support.”

He had a complicated expression on his face as he replied. “No, I certainly wasn’t thinking that. In fact when we look for someone, I’d prefer it if they were a little less interesting than Rozemyne.”

Well that was just rude.