Barbaric Spouse, Descry the Night's Lure-Chapter 195: Scene CXCV

“A’ight, get up. Let’s go talk a tad with these men you so dislike, the time will come quicker that way.”

“... I can wait right here.”

“You’ll only grow more anxious. Come with me, you still are an Archduke, socializing, even if you dislike it, is a part of your duty.” — Giving him a pat on the same shoulder he was once shook off from, Jollveld grinned. Becoming severe slightly as there were matters the two also had to take care of together for none other besides Aslak was of real trust for the King under the circumstamces the Kingdom was in. — “... We can’t only make it about you and your woman.”

“... Right... I’ll behave though. My Fatædi’s counting on it.”

"Behave?... A mad barbarian saying that. I’ve seen it all."

A disgusted sneer was granted by the King, that pushed him without much outcome; in disbelief at the words from the savage cousin. Proceeding to lead their way immediately after, ignoring how Aslak took with him a piece of bread to eat.

*******

At the table, faces she could recognize were sitting. And even as they conversed, those that always served them stood silent to their right, with lowered heads so as to show respect to those noblewomen enjoying an afternoon of pompous conversation at the luxury the Palace offered.

‘Kelly... it is so good to see you are doing well...’ — Ewelina thought, happy to see the maid she had deemed as a cold friend while she remained at her Morther’s lands.

A fond expression was dedicated to the maid, who once she noticed in a glace, quickly averted her gaze, appearing as cold as Ewelina remembered

Yet the Archduchess was ignorant... for in such little and common gesture, guilt and shame... as well as despise was mixing bitterly within the servant.

‘Don’t look at me... how can you smile at me, Ewelina...’ — Pained by the many emotions, Kelly’s chest felt heavy, gripping her own hands in frustration, for she was knowledgable of the evil acts she had committed against the innocent. — ‘You’re still ignorant... that is why... yet once you find out the truth...’

“Therefore, her Illustrious Grace, would it be alright for us to inquire on your thoughts? How has the life as the Archduke’s wife been so far? I suppose it is a vast change, as his lands are far from the north and your birthlands, Arbeumore.”

“It has indeed been a change in this life I lead... Nonetheless, there is only gratitude I have for the fate I am facing. My husband and his lands are so very different to how myself once imagined.”

“... Has he been a good partner?...”

“... He is. Aslak is a thoughtful man, even if his appearance says otherwise.”

“! Ah... Your Grace, I did not mean any disrespect...” — Nervous the young lady that had invited her to the table clarified, afraid that her question was misinterpreted.

“I am aware. The Archduke’s fame also had me in fear at the beginning, I ought to confess... yet appearances are not to be judged before learning about the person. The surprises I get as I learn more about him are all extraordinarily pleasant.” — With comprehension, Ewelina gently reassured the young woman as she was also approached by a servant tending the feast.

“Your grace, would you like me to serve your tea.”

“! That would be perfect. Please do, young man.”

"I am to come back shortly."

"Thank you-"

“The Archduchess is truly a kind person is she not? Do you women now believe my words?” — Then the princess said with overflowing confidence. — “Ewelina, could you believe they were not sure if inviting you to this table would be of your liking? The moment I heard them, I could not help but show them otherwise.”

“Hahaha, the Princess was correct, the Archduchess is not unapproachable as we feared... Instead, Archduchess, thou are surprisingly gentle. I regret my previous convictions.” — Shy the young woman said.

“... I appreciate your new visions milady... The Princess has also shown her kindness while denying such mistaken convictions... my gratitude, Princess Dorothea.”

“My, do not mention it. Lady Dina was also a big help in convincing the other ladies. Yet it is as expected, for as far I am knowledgeable, you two are born from the same house, am I correct?”

On purpose, Dorothea had mentioned Dina so the step sisters would finally cross words... giving further start to her ill intentions.

“You are correct... Dina and I pertain to the same household.” — Ewelina replied peacefully. Smiling at the one who did not share blood with her. — “It pleases me to see you again, Dina. You look as beautiful as I last saw you.”

“... You flatter me, not much time has traversed and yet... The Archduchess’ essence has changed for the better of course. I am glad.”

“... Nonetheless, it has taken my attention that there is no sight of the Baron and the Baroness.”

“...”

“Did they stay at Arbeumore for some reason? I would have thought the Baron would like to attend an invitation from the king.” — Ewelina inquired, sincerely curious to learn the whereabouts of those she found distasteful.

“... Yes, father would have liked to attend, I am sure.”

“...”

“The circumstances did not permit it, however.” — Showing her displeasure, failing terribly in controlling it, Dina murmured. Only igniting further Ewelina’s curiosity.

“Was there a problem with the people? Or is it the plantings-”

“My~ Ewelina, let us not talk about that at this time. It would be better for you two to talk about it at a later time, right, Dina?”

“... We may speak later... Your Grace.” — Calmer and graceful, Dina said to end such conversation. Bowing at Ewelina whose concern was visible, so the matter would not be brought up before others again.

The Archduchess’ agreement had to be granted at the obvious reticence from the stepsister a few seats away. And forced to let the concern be kept in a corner of her mind, Ewelina followed the conversation Dorothea was to continue, satisfied for having the lead in this schemed exchange.