Revolutionary Lady Georgine Part 1 : Her Mestionora

by Ashyko, Fey_Storyteller, Minnette34, Pookaseraph

Summary:

She was denied of her dream after she shed sweat, blood and tears. Decreed to a fate worse than death in the beloved land of Chaoscipher.
In another weave, she fell from grace under the thrall of Chaoscipher but in this fabric? She found the tiny Mestionora in the temple.
This is Georgine's revolution to save her Geduldh from evil that seek to harm her.

VERY loosely inspired by Revolutionary Girl Utena

Main writer/Creator: Fey_Storyteller
Editor: Minnette34, Ashyko
Consulted: Pookaseraph (Kahare)

Chapter 1

Georgine - Her Dear Mestionora

She was twelve years old– determined to take her place in the archduke candidate course and prove her worth as an archducal member of Ehrenfest. That spring, however, was devoid of Flutrane’s grace, as Sylvester was to be baptized and her own mother would deprive her of support. While it was obvious all the love and favor of her mother went to her youngest… Georgine would never have dreamed that Veronica would destroy her that very day. 

“Sylvester is to be the heir of Ehrenfest,” Georgine’s mother declared firmly. 

Georgine saw a brief look of surprise on her father’s face; it was so fleeting she almost missed it. It was then she realized her father hadn’t made this decision, rather,  her mother was emboldened by Angriff and declared Sylvester as the heir without Aub’s consent. Georgine pleaded with her eyes, begging her father to not approve of this insanity. 

Yet… he didn’t contradict Lady Veronica. He went along with Veronica’s declaration to protect her rather than his daughter, even at the cost of cutting off Georgine’s future. 

The accursed pattern was repeated by Ventuchte at the whim of Chaoscipher in her fourth year. During interduchy tournament, her Mother decided to sell her to Aub Ahrensbach as third wife and canceled her engagement to Sauzengas. All her hard work was turned into dust once more. 

Once again she looked at her father, and, yet again, he turned away. He didn’t even look her in the eyes. Ah… nothing had changed; she was never important enough for him. 

Her educational curriculum was swiftly changed to a full bridal class, a mockery of her who had the qualification of an heir and minister. Bridal classes were an absolute insult to her intelligence as she was forced to be a mere political pawn to marry and make political connections to support her brother. 

Georgine knew the disadvantages of being a female archduke candidate, but the favoritism of her parents for their golden child disgusted her. Her father had no sympathy for her; he gave no reason for ending her education as an heir, but Georgine knew… he saw her not giving up on competing, and so they pushed her to prioritize bride training instead. 

As she sat on the balcony while embroidering in the spring, she spotted Sylvester running around the garden, skipping class again with no consideration for Aubhood and the territory's future placed upon his shoulders. She had worked so hard when she was that age because she wanted her parents to be proud of her and because Georgine loved her duchy, but now…

Just because he was a boy. Because her parents liked him better for it. They just discarded her future so she could be a wife out of duchy that could support the lazy and incompetent heir they wanted?! She couldn’t even stay in her beloved Ehrenfest as a minister, lest political support stay behind her rather than her idiotic brother. Georgine mentally raged against the inequity of it all. Why did she have to make a sacrifice for a foolish brother with no self-awareness as an heir?

“Lady Georgine!” an elderly attendant cried out. 

Georgine then noticed she had gripped the embroidery and the needle so hard she had stained everything with her blood. Her attendant quickly healed her and then consoled Georgine with empty words, saying Aub would not wrong her with a bad match and to stop envying her innocent little brother. This attendant who replaced Rihyarda was unlike her old nanny, there was none of the comfort nor love she craved. Then again, had Rihyarda ever been loyal to Georgine if she didn’t put up any resistance to being taken away for Sylvester? She served the will of her cruel father who only loved Georgine’s mother and brother. Didn’t he let mother ravage people’s houses through insidious means? As Aub he too was a failure. 

Her dissatisfaction reached its peak when her dearest father told her that he had discussed marriage as the third wife of Aub Ahrensbach,  a man who was just a tad younger than her father! 

How dare they…  

Should she be surprised that her mother made this match? She had long ago learned at the academy that Ahrensbach never promised or provided proper asylum. Sure, their Aub spoke some ‘kind words’ to Veronica when she married Aub Ehrenfest, however, Georgine barely remembered any protection from the grand duchy of Ahrensbach for her people. She also knew Veronica forced higher taxes on imported goods from Ahrensbach to curry favor– not for Ehrenfest, but for herself. 

Ehrenfest being under Ahrensbach’s asylum was all a hoax Veronica had meticulously maintained over the years. At the very least, the grand duchy had done the bare minimum for Ehrenfest as their asylum. 

Georgine was puzzled by the reasoning, but it turned out the answer lied in none other than her own grandmother after she had commanded her scholars to look deeper on the issue. Gabriele was the daughter of a third wife who mischievously pulled a married lord’s thread by force, shaming the greater duchy when she revealed herself unfit to be the first lady of an Archduke and pulled her husband down with her to giebe status. So, Ahrensbach did their best to paint Gabriele as ‘pitiful lady’ marrying down and had the shame of their family confined within Ehrenfest. 

What grand duchy would want to acknowledge such a lady inherited their blood? 

“O’ Heilschmerz, healing for Lady Georgine.” 

Georgine looked down on the attendant that was casting healing on her hand. The woman was still parading herself as Anhaltung advising her to  be an obedient daughter who should be like the ever accepting Geduldh. Georgine’s free hand reached to the stones of her namesworn and gave an order. 

Gloria, one of her aides, tensed up before coming forward with a hand raised and swinging it down towards the elderly attendant. SLAP!  

“Kyaa- what are you doing?! Gl- Gloria! H-how dare you!” 

“I- I…” Gloria stammered but was unable to fight the order. Georgine knew all along that Gloria’s loyalty was fleeting, so if she got in trouble for injuring an archnoble-born nanny, it was none of Georgine’s concern. 

Slap! 

Georgine stood up, discarding the bloody embroidery and adding another order to slap the insolent mouth that dared to tell her to ‘accept’ her fate. 

At last the nanny figured out the source of Gloria’s out of character’s behavior, and Georgine’s indifference to the abuse. “L-lady Georgine- n-no! Stop!” 

Slap!

Slap!  

“Stop, Glo- arrgh!”  

She would destroy such a decree at all cost, even if she had to sell her soul to Chaoscipher… 

“Uh…ugh…” 

Georgine simply gazed at the pitiful attendant with her reddened cheeks and allowed Grausam to speak on her behalf. “What attendant dares to speak so condescendingly to our master? Parading yourself as Anhaltung, nonetheless.” 

“B-bu-” 

“So you have not learned your lesson and are still looking down on our master. How insolent!” This time it was Grausam who raised his hand. He might be a scholar, but he was also a man and obviously stronger than Gloria.  

The nanny clamped her mouth shut and lowered herself before Georgine in fear. The other aides in the room sent by her parents heard her message loud and clear. If they dared to be Anhaltung and attempted to make the humiliating match sound like a blessing, they would be punished for the disrespect. There would be no way to coat Grammatura in honey to convince her otherwise.  

Once she returned to her room, she forcefully had the new aides assigned by her parents to keep an eye on her make themselves scarce. They, of course, refused, only to be cowed when her loyal knights pulled their blades on them. Georgine herself had a weapon out, “Treason against your lady? Very well…”  She was going mad. There was nothing to lose now that she was to be sold away as a third wife. 

After they were gone, her remaining aides started clamoring in protest of her treatment. “Lady Georgine, this is an outrage!” Grausam was trembling with anger. “Our honorable lady… a mere third wife!” 

She let them argue among themselves, those whose loyalty was vague like Gudrun warned her more loyal aides to watch their words as the marriage was Aub’s order. Georgine just watched attentively, mentally sorting those worthy and unworthy of her grace. She could isolate those without real loyalty slowly. 

This winter she would be in her fifth year. Her previous engagement had been canceled. First, it was Karstedt, and then even the Sauzengas’s archduke candidate she chose was not fated to be with her– both forced from her side by her spiteful mother. Dregarnuhr’s grace was running out as her parents must have been impatient to drive away Sylvester’s rival for Aub’s position. She gave a signal to Grausam with her eyes and let it be known she would prepare her next move. 

Archduke candidates couldn’t move freely on their own, for most part, but it was not impossible. One just had to explore the gap, and the recent traumatic experience earned her a whole day for herself in a hidden room. No aides protested when she secluded herself like this lest she lash out on their precious heir.    

Of course, the door of her hidden room would be guarded by aides, but there would be less personnel, and she knew their rotation. She just had to come out during the time Grausam and her most loyal aides were attending to her. They wanted to follow but knew better than to cast suspicion on her by not guarding the empty hidden room. 

Georgine quickly departed through the secret passage known only to the heir and rushed to her destination. Soon, the temple was in sight; it was already quite late at night but nobody paid heed to a noble coming by highbeast. Most would just assume she was a nobleman seeking flowers, which was the best disguise and why her robe for going to the temple was always padded at the shoulders to make her silhouette more masculine. 

Usually, she would greet her uncle first, but Georgine had no time for that today. She went straight to an inconspicuous room where the light was still on. A gray shrine maiden spotted her and became nervous, but Georgine paid her no heed. “I can’t enter the library– have your mistress come out of there now-”

“My lady is reading,” the shrine maiden relaxed when she heard Georgine’s voice. “I am afraid-” 

“Pull the tome from her hand if you must, just blame me. Your mistress’s mood will be good once she knows I came for her.” Georgine would usually not be courteous to a mere gray but the eccentric lady she was seeing would be cross, so Georgine had to be cordial with them at the very least. “With suitable offerings,” she added. 

A smile broke out on the gray robe’s face at that, “Of course, Lady Georgine.” 

It didn’t take long for a very grumpy looking girl to come out of the library, pouting at the interruption. “Oh, it’s you… Lady Georgine, if it’s about rinsham…” 

“No, it’s not about your hair cleansing liquid,” Georgine refuted. “Rozemyne…” 

“Well, what brings you to the house of the Gods, then?”

The gray servants had to prompt Rozemyne to let Georgine into her chamber first. In the whole duchy, only this girl needed to be reminded how to politely receive her guest. It wasn’t like Rozemyne was completely mannerless, the little girl just prioritized her reading time above courtesy to her superiors. 

Still… Georgine gazed at the unbaptized girl before her and had to marvel at both the guts and wisdom Rozemyne had at only five years old… even if she was so small her grays had to pick her up to sit on her chair. 

“It happened just as you told me…” was all Georgine needed to say. 

“Bwuh-” Rozemyne almost dropped her cup. “Your parents really plan to marry you to an old man? Wooooow…that is so cliché.” Georgine glared at Rozemyne. “I mean, I am sorry to hear that, Lady Georgine.” 

Georgine heaved a sigh, “I have been cornered into this position… so I accept, whether it’s access to the castle library, getting rid of the poisonous Flutrane of your home, or sending people to look for heirlooms sold from your house…” She listed her bribe materials tiredly, “I will give them all to you if you become my Anhaltung and Mestionora.” 

“Yahoo! Lady Georgine, it’s a deal! By making me your Mestionora, I shall give you the fair value of the price you paid. Fu fu fu~”

This silly looking girl with an eccentric bearing was not to be underestimated. If she had any other way, Georgine would not rely on Rozemyne. Do not be deceived by her outward appearance. This girl was the Leisegang princess who managed to usurp the power of Georgine’s uncle in the temple. Outwardly, Bezewanst was still the High Bishop, but he had fallen to Rozemyne’s ploy and couldn’t even share his grievances with Veronica. 

Georgine’s cheeks feel cramped and heated as she remembered her uncle wailing about his dull and useless sword due to Rozemyne’s curse.

She had also brought down the former blue shrine maiden who had been running the orphanage. The former orphanage director had a…. thing for boys fresh from Wigenmiche’s embrace. When Rozemyne found out, the lustful shrine maiden was plagued with nightmares and fled the temple in terror to be a household servant rather than be haunted by her sins. 

Now, Rozemyne held the position of orphanage director, and all of the gray priests and shrine maidens alike regarded her as their savior from those who blasphemed in Beischmacht’s name. The blues did not dare touch the grays for fear of receiving a similar curse.

“Well, I definitely can’t just curse Aub with nightmares or dullness of the sword-” 

“Rozemyne, you are a lady! Mind your language!” 

Rozemyne at last stopped talking nonsense and became the Anhaltung and Mestionora she expected the young girl to be. It was clear this engagement would benefit Veronica, but in the end it was up to Georgine whether to give any benefits as she was the one marrying. Also, the prospect of stronger support from Ahrensbach wouldn’t be as good as it sounded when Veronica was not using it for Ehrenfest’s prosperity but her own. 

“So draw support from the Leisegang by promising you will depose Lady Veronica when you become Aub Ehrenfest.” 

“That won’t be easy as I am still Veronica’s daughter,” Georgine pointed out with a smirk. “I am doing my best to draw in the more moderate Leisegangs however…” 

“It won’t be easy, but, at the moment, you have a common enemy, Lady Georgine.” Rozemyne grinned, “The offer has to be precise… you become Aub, and you will depose your mother. The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” 

Georgine’s lips quirked up, “And… what if they go after me next?”

“Your brother is firmly under your mother’s thumb, and even if you become Aub, it doesn’t mean you need to get rid of him.” 

“Oh?”

“You said Veronica is raising him to be an obedient puppet Aub, and his temperament is not suitable to be Aub, right?” 

“You are saying I still can use Sylvester…?”

Rozemyne shrugged, “He is a means to an end for Veronica, he is not your enemy, Veronica is… and I suppose your father too.” Georgine couldn’t deny that; as irritating as her brother could be, he was just a pawn. “Now… the concern is making Leisegang side with you by protecting their interest and stopping this unfair engagement to the ancient Aub Ahrensbach.” The young Mestionora crossed her arms, “So, what are you going to do to prevent it at the moment?” 

Georgine began to explain her plan– taking as many dedicated names as possible and defeating her mother at her own game. 

“That’s an awful plan… I suggest you stop any idea that associates you with Chaoscipher, Lady Georgine.” Rozemyne huffed, “And I don’t like it! Life is not a toy!” 

“I will have you know they are all sincerely dedicated to me.”

“Well, I hope so! For now, stop it. I don’t think it’s going to work, and besides, there's an easier way to stop your engagement.”  

“How?” Georgine narrowed her eyes. 

“There were several ways… in a novel, usually you either grab a better lord-” Rozemyne trailed off. 

Georgine interjected, “By status, that’s impossible…” Even if he was already a middle aged lord, he was still the Aub of a greater territory. 

“The other option is flawing yourself.”

“I still need my reputation, Rozemyne.” If she was not good enough to be a third lady, Aubhood was not an option either. 

Rozemyne’s eyes widened, “Oh, I know! Lady Georgine- actually, you need honor internally, but externally you really don’t– not when our people are already wary of external influence from foreign lords. What’s important is you can be Aub and do not get married out of duchy.” 

“What about my children?”

“Are you attached to the idea of having your own?” Rozemyne looked amused. “You don’t seem to be the type.” 

Noblewomen were obligated to conceive, so what type of noblewoman was Rozemyne speaking of? 

Still, despite the absurdity of the question, Georgine took only a moment to answer. “Not really, to be honest. How nice is it to be a lord. Entrinduge has no business with men…” 

“Well, Lady Georgine… you can leave that to Lord Sylvester and Lord Karstedt then-” Rozemyne shrugged, “Just adopt their children and marry a Leisegang lord who is obedient to you.” 

That… was not a bad idea. Georgine almost giggled to herself, imagining herself adopting their children and training them to be the next Aub. It wasn’t a very practical idea, but it amused her greatly all the same. 

“So how exactly would I still be desirable for lords from our duchy but not for Aub Ahrensbach?” 

“First, you can steal your uncle’s position and send him into early retirement.” 

Her eyes widened in shock, but then realization dawned. As High Bishop, of course Aub Ahrensbach wouldn’t want her. However, with the position of High Bishop she would be the one who controlled Flutrane’s blessings. She had seen the ‘harvest yield’ report because she had the most interest in her duchy’s finances; it was subtle, but obvious enough, if analyzed meticulously.

Since the current Aub’s reign began, the Leisegang faction’s provinces had suffered a slight decline from year to year in harvest yield, yet their taxes increased. On the other hand, the Veronica faction enjoyed the opposite; their harvest yield increased little by little and their tax burden was lightened slightly. 

The temple controlled the flow of Flutrane which at the same time also went hand in hand with tax collection.  If she let the clear tide flow once more… At the very least, moderate Leisegangs and neutrals like Haldenzel and Kirnberger would support her! 

The problem, however, “Aub will not approve of me flawing myself.” 

Rozemyne grinned like a shumil with rutber, “Lady Georgine, you just have to ask for forgiveness, not permission. It’s not like the archduke showed you any courtesy by forcing that awful match on you either…” 

Georgine couldn’t help but recall Sylvester’s appointment as heir by Veronica and how she did so arbitrarily without Aub’s permission. Georgine just had to pressure her uncle Bezewanst to let her have his job, and, once it was spread, there was nothing Aub could do. Provinces that had been deprived of chalices for so long would see her as a salvation, and if Aub tried to push her to Ahrensbach… she could sow even more discord between the Leisegang and her father. He would be forced to keep her as High Bishop to pacify the Leisegang. 

“As a female Aub, I still need an archduke candidate husband for Zent to approve my appointment as Aub.”

Rozemyne frowned, “How troublesome… then, if Lady Georgine is sponsoring me, I am sure we can bring an abundant blessing of Greifechan to bribe Liebeskhilfe to get you an obedient Dark God.” 

Georgine couldn’t help it, she laughed out loud. “You are saying… with enough money we can just get a son in law from a lower duchy than Ehrenfest as a stand in?”

“Or a higher ranked duchy,” Rozemyne shrugged. “As long as we have good enough bait for your husband-to-be, it can work. I will give you rinsham as a trend. What duchy wouldn’t be interested in that?” Rozemyne asked smugly, throwing her silky midnight hair over her shoulder in emphasis. 

Georgine smirked, “Drewanchel has a very convenient tradition of adopting the children of giebes as archduke candidates. They would not miss one lord…” Whether it was Drewanchel or a lower duchy, there could be enough benefit to draw in a son in law who wouldn’t care about her flawed reputation. As for being High Bishop, she could wrap the narrative prettily if she wanted, dressed in the honey of Grammatura. For example, she was the pitiful damsel High Bishop because her dear mother deprived their people of Flutrane’s blessings for her own gain and ruined their duchy. 

A beautiful truth that would bring down her mother and elevate herself! 

“Truly you are my Mestionora…” 

“Ufufu…” Georgine placed a thick book she had smuggled out of the castle’s library on the table, and Rozemyne spread yellow blessings upon her for the bribe, as usual. “Book~ book~”

If only there was anything else that moved this gremlin aside from books, she would make a very fine minister.   

Rozemyne- Her Prologue

When she opened her eyes, Urano had a new name. She was called Rozemyne, and her attendant was nursing her desperately, nearly in tears as begging her to wake up. 

“E…estira?” Her lips spoke of the attendant name, as memory of the five years old girl rushed into her mind, along with knowledge of the language she spoke. 

Then her mind became jumbled again, the shock from her own death as Urano, her awakening as Rozemyne and then… grief- mourning the mother she left behind and-

“Milady, please stay strong even though your mother has climb to towering heights.”

In this life, too, she couldn’t be a filial daughter. Rozemyne’s mother had passed away. 

“I want to read a book…” She wanted to distract herself, for a book to heal her heart. Or this heat within her would escape and go wild. 

Her attendant, Estira, was confused by her newfound drive for reading and learning but welcomed this as Rozemyne’s escape from grief. She patiently taught Rozemyne her letters and turns of phrase.

Books were her solace as Urano but for Rozemyne the beautiful library and its contents were also precious mementos from her mother and their family. Estira had told Rozemyne that her family came from a long line of scholars that already existed since Eisenreich, a duchy that was even far older than the current Ehrenfest. When she traced her family tree she found out that one of the ancestors was actually married down to her family from Eisenreich’s archducal house before their fall from grace! 

Which was why her family held the long lived tradition of protecting wisdom. 

It was easy for Urano and Rozemyne to become one person, intertwined due to their love for books and family. It was a blissful life for a little girl in another world, and once Estira taught Rozemyne basic theology she started praying in thanks to the Gods (especially Mestionora who fascinated Rozemyne the most) that she had a library! There were even books that could only be accessed by the family members that was also a journal of a former librarian of royal academy a hundred years ago, saying the librarians were Mestionora’s disciples and they would belong to her library when they passed away. What a world, there’s a library in their heaven! 

In the family library there was a small statue of Mestionora who looked a lot like Rozemyne according to Estira, while she said it was small it was actually as big as Rozemyne. Mestionora was holding a book but also surrounded by miniaturized versions of divine instruments of her family, and as the myth said as she was the most beloved she could use them all! She prayed everyday to the statue, and when she touched it the colored stones on the instrument would lit up. It was only after she read further in the diary she learned it was actually a supply station for magical tools that preserved the books in the library. The librarian ancestor of hers made it by imitating the ones in the royal academy’s library. 

So this world ran on prayers, magic was prayer to the Gods! Kind of like Greece! If it protected the library, she would give as much as she could! It was bliss for a few months. Even her father being a distant parent didn’t disturb her much. 

But that simple peace did not last. When her father’s second wife moved to the main building with the man she had not seen much in months she became Rozemyne, her father told her unknown woman was her “new mother.” She was not a kind person. From the moment that woman moved to the main house, she tried to drive away Rozemyne from the family’s residence and library repeatedly. 

One day Rozemyne’s precious magical tool given to all children of the world was gone, and Estira panickedly tried to find it to no avail. Rozemyne became very ill but persevered by pushing the heat in her body to a box and her fever subsided. Estira was surprised and went to find her busy father to get another tool but alas… he was nowhere to be found, apparently away on a mission from the archducal clan. 

Then one day the second wife lost her patience.  Rozemyne was minding her own business in her library when her stepmother irritably demanded her to get out again. 

“Everything shall belong to my children one day, and you shall be married off. The sooner you are out of my sight, the better.” 

That was when it clicked- this family estate was her mother’s. Her father was a son in law, but he had dared take a second wife. Well, her father was the son adopted by her grandparents to be heir, so he technically could, but…all those books and heritage would be lost to someone else! 

Her anger erupted, “My family’s heirlooms are mine! I will not give it to anyone!!!” 

And that was how her father found them, her stepmother writhing in pain on the floor as Rozemyne threatened to take her life for books. Which then led to her scummy father’s decision to send her away to the temple, instead of sending his mistress turned wife away. “She is going to steal my library and books, it belongs to my family!” 

Her father didn’t say anything, turning away. 

“You are also a thief, aren’t you?!” 

The next day she was sent away by carriage with minimum luggage, her stepmother was smug until she in her rage crushed her again- it was a spectacle in public as the house servants rushed to save the new mistress (who was foaming at the mouth) by stuffing their tiny lady to the carriage. 

Temple Life full of books and curses 

Rozemyne arrived in the temple at the beginning of autumn. Her nanny, Estira was apparently fired by father as retaliation for Rozemyne’s crushing his wife, so she was sent away too. The temple was… not too bad, her room was a bit smaller but the grays assigned to her by the High Priest were all nice. They were even alright with making all in one shampoo and other handmade concoction for her if she ordered them. 

The High Priest was a taciturn middle aged man who ordained her as apprentice shrine maiden. He was not a bad person but had a lot of work it seemed. 

“Poor kid… your house was also taken huh?” 

Rozemyne then learned this was not unusual in the capital and she was just the latest victim of a second wife’s scheme. This enraged Rozemyne and High Priest told her to just channel that pent up rage to divine instrument, as he had no time for coddling a child with poor emotional management.

A few days into adapting to her new temple life she made a huge discovery: there was a library too here! A noble messenger came delivering Rozemyne several boxes, apparently before Estira was fired she managed to smuggle several heirlooms belonging to Rozemyne’s mother and family. One of them was baptismal ring she was supposed to receive at seven that had long been prepared by her mother, and also a diary book that had her research notes, poems, songs or other random things she liked.  

The messenger also informed Rozemyne that her father would be sending… an instructor to the temple and ordered her to be grateful as the cost was higher as she was to be tutored in the House of the Gods. As her dearest father didn’t want Rozemyne back at the house even for classes to protect his dearest Flutrane. 

Rozemyne couldn’t help but be reminded of her library and books stolen… robbed from her and became angry again. Thinking of that mistress and scum of a father procreating and having children that would take her heirlooms made Rozemyne want to break something- bloody carnival! 

As her mana swirled within her, Rozemyne stared at the altar adorned by divine instruments. According to scriptures she read in the library… 

“Hmph!” She grabbed the sword of Ewigeliebe without hesitation, cutting herself in the process. 

“Lady Rozemyne!” Screeched her gray attendant, “I will bring the instrument to you, don’t hurt yourself!” 

“Milady!” 

Rozemyne ignored them, while noting to herself to apologize later. Then began to pray to one god no four years old should even speak about. “O’ Beiscmacht the god of copulation, Ewigelibe’s exalted subordinate God!” She knew the grays who knew the Gods were all as red as tomatoes but she continued. “Take away your blessing from my scumbag of a father, may he never know the joy of your grace! Give him ED for his cheating ways!” Yandere or not, Ewigeliebe was a loyal husband unlike her father! Surely his subordinate would approve! 

“I want the wand and chalice!”

“Certainly, Milady!” Her grays rushed to bring the instrument to her arm’s reach. 

She then reached for Flutrane’s wand and Geduldh’s chalice, “ O, Enbindung, goddess of childbirth… O’ Wigenmiche’ protector of children! Deprive the woman who torments this child of your blessings!” 

Three colored lights bursted from the divine instruments, almost knocking Rozemyne off of her feet. The lights went out of the door of the prayer room and out of sight to who knows where. Rozemyne blinked owlishly and wondered if that was a sign her prayers were answered. “Praise to the Gods!” She struck a fine pose happily before collapsing on the floor. 

“Lady Rozemyne!”

“Milady!” 

She had five days of fever and as her mana was erupting, her gray was given permission to bring Schutzaria’s shield to her bedroom. Rozemyne then slept uncomfortably on top of the shield with only cloth as barrier, so her excess mana could be sucked in by the shield. When she woke up the first thing she wanted was reading, and it was only three days later of reading bliss Rozemyne remembered what she did to her father and step-mother. 

Did it work though? She had no idea but a divine sign was there! 

Still, she had to confirm her heirlooms were safe and on top of that Rozemyne had to ensure she was the only heir of her house so her father didn’t get the bright idea of getting rid of her. Hence… Rozemyne embarked to find guinea pigs for her experiment. 

“So… Can you tell me the worst blue robes in the temple?” 

Of course her gray servants at first refused to spill, blue robes were their masters so it wasn’t their place to criticize much less insult. Rozemyne however had learned to be very persuasive. Or rather it was just her adorable gray servants being too nice. Names were given- several blues liked flowers a bit too much, said some adult gray priest of hers- which made her gray shrine maidens glared at them for spilling about… dirty matters for her young ears. 

Rozemyne thought it was way too late to protect her ears’ purity. However the name of High Bishop came out as the most lustful man in the temple and Rozemyne believed the High Priest had warned her to avoid the man because they were from different factions. Rozemyne had not asked further on this factional problem but basically it was no skin off her back if she used the man as guinea pig. He was already as fat as a pig, a fake santa! 

Rozemyne was on her way to the prayer hall to curs—er, pray when she ran to her fellow blue shrine maiden. She was admittedly older and with raised hair, obviously she was a proper shrine maiden. Rozemyne usually kept to herself so she rarely ran into her fellow blue robes. This blue shrine maiden’s name was Margaret and she was also the manager of the temple's orphanage so all the grays knew of her. 

“Oh my… what beautiful hair you have, like it is blessed by Dark God and his subordinate, the God of Stars. What’s the secret, I wonder?”

At this point Rozemyne had known that her all in one shampoo was a luxury good and Estira said it was Rozemyne’s beauty secret that should be kept protectively. Her main attendant, a gray shrine maiden in her late twenties named Ethel, said it was a good bargaining chip with her fellow blue robes. So Rozemyne was on guard by Margaret’s inquiry. 

Rozemyne narrowed her eyes, and noticed on the corner of her eyes- her gray priest apprentice Ryan was trembling in fear. When a gray was fearful of certain blue robes, usually said blue was not a good person. Rozemyne had found her next guinea pig, so Rozemyne didn’t refuse the invitation to a tea party. 

As soon as she finished dedicating mana, she grilled her grays on Margaret. It was worse than she expected. Rozemyne had suspected Margaret to be a child abuser considering her position, but not that she was a rapist and pedophile! On top of that she was in charge of orphaned children as Orphanage director, unbelievable! 

As the promised tea party was a week later, she sent three days' notice to the High Priest. Who, as usual, didn’t want to take care of a kid and instead sent back an inquiry of what she needed and to just say it in a letter. So she replied back that she wanted the position of director of orphanage as soon as Margaret was ousted from the temple.

This prompted the High Priest to see her, and after a short explanation he said. “I don’t care… as long as you can get her out quietly, you can manage the orphanage or whatever you want.” 

The tea party was quite normal and Rozemyne reigned her emotions in as to not crush and turn Margaret to a foaming lump on the floor. As Rozemyne was of higher rank, Margaret had to suck up to Rozemyne to get her secret all in one shampoo. Rozemyne then asked plainly, “I wish to be orphanage director, would you give your position to me?” 

“I… surely you jest Lady Rozemyne. You are still in Wigenmiche’s protection.” 

Rozemyne narrowed her eyes, “I know what you are doing to young boys… and I want you to stop. Or else.” 

Of course an adult like Margaret didn’t pay heed to her warning and the tea party ended on an awkward note. Rozemyne did not waste time and went to dedicate mana again, this time to Ewigeliebe’s subordinate- Scraltraum. It would be a special treat to Margaret. Besides, she was unsure if nonexistent sex drive could be confirmed in women. Better be praying for the worst nightmare to God of Dreams so Margaret experienced the worst fear and humiliation for what she did. 

It was interesting to see her grays report that in a few days Margaret looked gaunt and was talking to herself. She had read before that sleep deprivation caused hallucinations in mere days, and Margaret’s nightmare was bad enough the woman avoided sleep completely. Then again she was no trained soldier, so she succumbed and in merely a week the woman crawled, begging for forgiveness from Rozemyne and giving up her position. 

“No, you need to leave… I don’t care. The temple has an orphanage, vulnerable children.” Rozemyne stated firmly. “I don’t want you anywhere near them.” 

And so she did, never to be seen again.

Orphanage Workshop

Few days later there was no longer sister Margaret in the temple and Rozemynetook over her room. It was quite a nice one with a mezzanine to boot! As Margaret was in a hurry, her furniture was left behind and Rozemyne decided to sell them and convert it to funds for the orphanage. She was then told the funds from selling Margarent’s stuff was barely enough to get them through the winter. Rozemyne realized she was over her head to take over the position of orphanage director without preparation whatsoever, there was fund for this but that shotacon embezzled majority of it! 

She started panicking about the many things the orphanage lacked, especially clothes. With winter coming, there were so many preparations needed to keep these children alive. Her grays shed tears when she told them she would do her best to keep everyone alive, and Rozemyne was appalled to know so far most director just gave them the bare minimum and… let them ‘pray’ for the best to Daoleben and Weigenmilch. 

The system that ‘feed’ the orphans and masterless gray was awful, they were dependent on ‘scraps’ from blue robes. There were babies and pregnant women in the orphanage , and it was expected for Rozemyne to ‘cull’ them over like those nomad tribes butchering their livestocks before winter. 

Several older orphans who lived in the downtown and knew the lifestyle of the city enlighten Rozemyne about winter preparation, which supposed to start from the beginning of autumn. This was already mid-autumn! They should have gathered enough money to buy preserved food for winter, warm clothes and firewood. 

Rozemyne send another nightmare for Margaret in anger. 

High Priest was of no help, he just ‘shrugged’ at her predicament because apparently there was no more money left for the orphans. The orphans was her problem now. “You have to figure out the money yourself, you want this position.” 

“Ck.” 

“Did you just click your tongue at me, you insufferable girl?” The High Priest glared at her. 

*

According to survival book she read as Urano, there was the rule of three. Humans could only survive, 3 hours in extreme condition without shelter, 3 days without water if you have shelter, and 3 weeks without food. The orphanage barely qualified as shelter in winter, according to her grays this land had similar climate as Hokkaido so it was freezing cold in winter. 

So the first priority was keeping the orphans warm- they had enough firewoods to last this winter but the gray’s robe and rags the orphans wore was thick but hardly warm enough for winter. But- they had abundant amount of hay for bedding… and it was cheap, so she told them to make straw cape to keep the children warm. 

“Milady, you’re truly blessed by Mestionora!” They gushed. 

“Thank you, Lady Rozemyne! They’re realy warm!” 

Soon- soon… she would purchase wool instead and teach them how to knit proper warm clothes! Rozemyne vowed to herself. 

She quizzes more of the not so sheltered grays about survival in downtown, and was told about foraging and hunting. They were sorry to say but they had no tools to do it, and not to mention they had no appropriate clothes to visit the forest.

“The temple is not a nice place even for commoner, they would freak out if we go there in this gray robe.” 

“Hm… so it’s out of option.” at least until she raise enough money to give them appropriate commoner clothes for foraging. 

*

A week into her dilemma to raise fund for orphans, she ran into Christine, who was apparently the only shrine maidens her age in the temple. She wanted more gray priest to do labor work in her room, and Rozemyne happily provided several strong gray priest. For some reason Christine frown, and her issue was apparently their looks. 

When she was almost regretting giving away grays, Christuna assuaged her fears that her fellow little girl was not a pervert in the making. “...Well, I didn’t see much of them so I guess it’s fine if they’re not good looking. How about that boy?” 

The boy Christine was referring to was no other than Fran who was recently baptized, and also a favorite victim of that pedo woman. The poor boy froze when Christine gestured towards him like a deer caught in headlight. “Fran is part of my entourage so he is off limits…” 

Christine nodded, “A shame, by the way Lady Rozemyne… what manner of potion you put on your hair? It shone like the darkest night glittering with stars!  I would love to purchase them for myself!”  

Rozemyne knew business when she saw it, “Actually it’s a family’s secret concoction I found in my family’s book… but I do not mind to share some if you help me with some favors.” She also added as this was a secret potion, Christine should refrain using it when venturing out of the temple. 

Christine smiled and nodded, “No problem, I shall seek Duldetzen and wait for Dregarnuhr to let Eflownefleurne’s secret in your hands go.” Then she asked, “So, how could I help you, Lady Rozemyne?” 

Wasn’t Christine the same age as her? Her speech was so refined! “Ahem… you see I just recently take office as orphanage director, but it seems the previous director rob the children of Greifechan’s blessings! So I am in need of honey to save these children…” 

Christine looked troubled, “...I wish I could help Lady Rozemyne, however my finance is tightly monitored by my father… I wouldn’t be allowed to spend them on charity.”

“I guess as much, do you have any idea how to get donations then?”

She beamed, “Why don’t you call the merchants? Your hair potion would beckon Greifechan’s grace!”  

“What a wonderful idea!” 

She spoke too soon, because the next day she realized the ‘exclusive’ working on her need were all affiliated with that rotten deadbeat father! They wouldn’t even come on her command, and asked her to ask for permission from him!  She had to find someone else, perhaps she should ask Christine? She sent her attendant to send message, but turned out Christine wasn’t in the temple but in noble district for her lady education! 

That damned father keep me in this place and never get me those classes!

With no other choice, she sent out her gray attendants to find a merchant dealing with beauty product. Her gray ended up getting lost, having been in the temple for so long they only remembered the general area of shopping district.  Fortunately, they were helped by a very kind commoner working in a boutique, which was how Gilberta’s boss was the one called to the temple to see her. The head of Gilberta was called Dio. He was a man in his mid-thirties with neatly combed blond hair and bright red eyes. 

The kind man was confused when Rozemyne asked about market prices of fashion products including cosmetics, but answered politely. 

Which then enlightened Rozemyne to the sad fact that her father had skimped on her life expenses. There was enough for her daily needs, but not for anything extra like accessories, dresses and other niceties. She didn’t care too much for these, but remembered how upset little Rozemyne about lacking these things because of that evil step-mom and father. 

“Would you be interested if I sell you product ideas?” Rozemyne didn’t miss Dio eyeing her silky hair. “Perhaps a potion to make hair glossy…” 

He nodded enthusiastically. “Of course, Lady Rozemyne… it would be Greifechan’s great blessing for Gilberta.” 

“Hm… then answer me honestly. How much would you offer for the rights to the recipe?” Rozemyne had her attendant show Dio a bottle of rinsham, just for him to check the liquid. It wasn’t something one could guess by sight anyway. 

“It smells good… herbal…” Dio murmured softly, “How long would this amount last?” 

“It’s good for about a month in a decent container.” Rozemyne answered, “Inside this bottle is enough for a week I suppose.” 

Dio gave a number, which was quite a lot! It was in large golds! 

However, that would only give Rozemyne lots of money for the short term. She needed long term income as she had many orphans and pregnant grey mothers to feed. So she made a different deal instead: Rozemyne was going to make a workshop in the orphanage where they would create stuff Rozemyne thought of. If it’s fashion and cosmetics, Rozemyne would sell them exclusively to Gilberta. In exchange she needed Gilberta to be her limbs in downtown, especially now that she knew her deadbeat dad just gave her minimum life expenses! 

“However, as I am limited in my capabilities as an apprentice shrine maiden in the temple, I need you to help me purchase many things. As for the payment…” She had her attendant bring her a wooden board and Rozemyne sketch a hanger with rounded tip. She had seen ones her attendant used to hang her clothes and it looked like crosses, which bad for fabric! 

“Here you go, is this enough to purchase these?” She gave him a list of items to purchase for her, including ingredients for rinsham, ingredients for some handmade cosmetics, yarns, and sewing kits. Unfortunately not everything on the list was something Dio could purchase from his allied workshops, but he would try asking the Othmar Company, the bigger grocer merchants in the capital. The hanger was apparently also an expensive design, so it was more than enough for compensation. Dio said it could be spread to all boutiques in Ehrenfest and it would became their specialty product too.  

That solved her money issue for now, but it also reminded her that the financial trouble she faced was due to her father and stepmother in the first place! He never even replaced the magical tool stolen from her! Sure she could try making money from the homemaking skills Urano’s Mom taught her but everything in the family’s manor was originally hers. 

So she sent a message home to her family demanding more funds, only to receive a scathing reply from her stepmother that the house had nothing to give for a daughter like her. Apparently her step-mmother was getting treatment to recover from something and they had skimped on Rozemyne’s expenses instead. Rozemyne started to get scared they would sell off the books and her mother’s mementos. 

She had to do something!  

Rozemyne had almost forgotten about her experiment after punishing sister Margaret, but according to Ethel as former flower shrine maiden of High Bishop- the fake santa embezzled a lot of money! Which also included money given to Rozemyne as an apprentice shrine maiden. He was also the most lustful of all men in the temple! So Rozemyne sent the curse of ED to him in rage as payback for her financial troubles and his lustful ways. 

She had chosen late hours for her curse when most personnel in the temple were asleep, around 2AM equivalent of this world because it was the cursed hour. Her gray never asked why and just assumed it was because her curse was pretty flashy. On this rare occasion however- High Bishop was not asleep among flowers like he usually was, and had… a noble guest.

Understandably when a shower of white light poured out of nowhere on High Bishop Bezewants, said guest went out to investigate assuming it was some sort of attack. 

That was how Rozemyne ran into Lady Georgine in the temple's corridor. 

The Future Villainess 

“Little girl, what are you doing so late at night?”

Rozemyne knelt, recognizing the ocher cloak with the lion embroidery she wore to signify her status as a member of the Archducal house. “I am… feeling unwell due to excess mana so I come to the prayer room to dedicate prayer to the Gods.” 

The beautiful lady with indigo hair glanced at the direction of the prayer room. “How come such an important room is open so late?”

“...I… often have excess so the High Priest gave me a copy of the key to the prayer room.” That wasn’t a lie. The High Priest did give her the duplicate key because she was the one who most often used the room. 

She smiled, “You… didn’t happen to see… blessings in the noble color of Ewigeliebe heading to the High Bishop’s room, do you?” 

The annoying thing about being noble, shutting up meant yes. “I have not seen anything like that, Lady…” 

She narrowed her eyes at Rozemyne. “Young girl… you need to learn how to hide your feelings and lie better.” The lady then made a stab in the dark. “Did you do it?”

Rozemyne switched plans. “There’s no proof I sent such a curse to our High Bishop. What would a baseless accusation do anyway?” She acted bold instead. 

“You are blessed by Angriff even though Verbergen escaped you, little girl… What's your name?”

There was no point hiding her name, she knew her looks stood out anyway. “I am Rozemyne.” 

The beautiful lady smiled, “...What a pretty name. I am Georgine… oldest daughter of Aub Ehrenfest.” Lady Georgine smirked, “Well, it doesn’t seem the white light hurt my uncle or anything…”

Rozemyne relaxed, “It really doesn’t… he will just take a break from some worldly desires of his.” 

That made her narrow her eyes, “...What do you mean?” 

“I think Lady Georgine will punish me for merely speaking of it as you are a proper lady, unlike…an apprentice shrine maiden like me.” 

Their first meeting was really weird, and their second was not any less weird as in merely a few days Lady Georgine figured out what Rozemyne meant by making Bezewanst abstainting from worldly desire. Apparently the fake santa panicked about his ED and for some reason Georgine was the only family member he could wail in panic about it. Which led to Georgine barging into Rozemyne’s office. 

The beautiful lady this time was not alone, but flanked by several noble children her age. “...You… truly can bestow curses.” 

“Lady Georgine, please don’t get angry… if anything I am doing High Bishop some favor because by overdoing flower offering to Bes-” 

The noble lady lost her composure, “You are five years old! A little girl shouldn’t speak of such things!” 

“Even if such a girl was warned of being in danger of such things by him?”

Georgine pursed her lips, but could not refute.

Rozemyne sighed, “…anyway, I am not really hurting your uncle. I am just preventing others from being hurt.” 

“I get it, my goodness…as long as it means his life is not in danger I have no complaint.” Lady Georgine was shaking her head. “But what are you really? You are now putting the whole temple in terror… whatever you are doing is almost like a plague.” 

“Not being able to do it isn’t a plague…” 

Lady Georgine glared at her coldly, “Do not speak of such matters ever again, am I clear?” Lady Georgine then interrogated Rozemyne on how she did it. Then the older girl promptly tried it but nothing happened. It seemed her prayer was not sincere and heartfelt enough. Rozemyne explained that the will behind her curse was not strong enough. 

Rozemyne didn’t mean to provoke Lady Georgine, but as punishment she had to endure a long rant about the archducal family. Basically Georgine was temporary heir to the duchy until her younger brother was born, and she worked so hard to make up for being a girl all her life. However her father, the Archduke, was firm that the heir was her younger brother and didn’t give Georgine a chance to compete. Adding salt to the wound, this little brother was a slacker who liked to skip class. His only merit was his gender and parental favoritism. 

Lady Georgine did give his brother a chance- or rather multiple of it. Not only he looked down on her openly for being demoted to minister for him, the brat called her Anhaltung’s stern guidance as ‘bullying’ when all she did was what their mother taught her. Rozemyne was horrified, because Lady Georgine was abused and thought it was ‘education’ and then her parents who allow it punish her for doing what they did to Sylvester. They couldn’t handle their treatment of her biting them in the butt, and directed towards their holden child so they punish her. 

Because nobles wouldn’t apologize. 

Rozemyne stopped Lady Georgine’s rant and then explain, “Never in my life as my mother’s sole heir, I was ever treated like that… there’s discipline there’s education.” 

“But my mother was…” 

“If she can not stand you treat your brother that way, she knows she is abusing you… Lady Georgine, you’re not yet an adult. They’re shamefully wrong you when they refuse to admit their mistake… it’s easier to agree with your brother you’re the bully and they take no part on it.” 

Lady Georgine slumped, her green eyes went wide in realization and horror. She was holding onto her bag of feystone like her life depended on it, and Rozemyne was glad she wasn’t crushed for what she said. 

Rozemyne continued after the poor girl regained her breathing, “Lady Georgine,I suggest you distant yourself from your family… stop interacting with your brother if you can’t control your anger. How you behave is a constant reminder of your parent’s sin to you… they’re unrepentant, and I think they would rather send you out of their sight than face their guilt towards you….” She swallowed heavily. “As you’re a woman, the easiest would be marrying you out… in low position that would keep you from Geduldh.”  

It was a staple in dramas Urano’s mother watched in her dream world. The unfavorite child was given a bad marriage that would make her miserable. 

Lady Georgine chuckled bitterly, “I am miserable enough as I am now, being denied my right. I doubt they would do anything more.”

Speaking of right… she too was being deprived of her birthright. Also Georgine ranked higher than her father and step-mother! This was the strong backing she needed to take back her home. “Then we should stick together, Lady Georgine… you see…” Rozemyne then told Georgine her side of the story, also being deprived of her heirloom due to evil step-mother. 

Lady Georgine heaved a sigh, “I understand you want help to regain your heirlooms, but I am the last person you should ask of this.” Lady Georgine then began to explain the factional feud that had eluded Rozemyne for so long. So in short Lady Georgine’s mother, Lady Veronica, was Aub’s sole wife and also the mastermind of the poisonous Flutrane scheme, in which she invaded houses of opposing factions through a second wife, usually assassinating the first wife and their children in order to take over the house. 

“But Lady Georgine, your mother is not your ally any longer right?” Rozemyne pointed out with a smirk. 

That made Lady Georgine smile, “No.”

Rozemyne boldly proposed, “I happen to be quite… resourceful. Why don’t you make use of me, Lady Georgine?” 

It was the start of a beautiful relationship filled with books and politics. Rozemyne honestly felt bad when Lady Georgine caved into her demands before spring ended due to her prediction coming true. It seemed Lady Georgine’s luck with parents was as bad as hers.

Chapter 2: Bringing Healing Tide

Chapter by Ashyko, Fey_Storyteller, Pookaseraph

Summary:

Georgine did her best-
Adelbert discover nothing goes according to their plan

Georgine- Flutrane of Ehrenfest

For better or worse, Georgine believed the family member who cared the most about her was no other than Uncle Bezewanst. He might have been a corrupt High Bishop and a pawn of Georgine’s mother, but he was the only family consoling her at her lowest moment. He even argued with mother over this decision for her sake. 

So predictably he did not approve of Georgine’s request right away, because of his concern for her. “Absolutely not, Georgine… don’t you understand Leisegang is all bad! Look what they have done to your uncle!” 

Georgine expected his rejection, because he cared for her, but she was also frustrated because she didn't realize that Uncle had been deceived by mother so thoroughly. “Uncle… The Leisegang faction would not hurt me on sight like you think… in the first place, you misunderstand the factional conflict severely.” 

Uncle, who was not educated in the way of nobility, was obviously confused why Georgine told him so. “What do you mean?”

“Uncle… hear me out.” Georgine began explaining that the way Mother and Grandmother expanded their faction was taboo, and thus it was very likely the archducal house itself executed Grandmother for it. Leisegang might be involved but the one taking the blame was them. 

“So I am just… a collateral victim?” 

“Uncle, what matters now is not who is at fault.” Georgine coaxed him gently, “At the rate mother is going she is killing too many of our people, and burdening the Leisegang faction will destroy our duchy.” 

Georgine had seen the tax report, at the rate Veronica was forcing Leisegangs into a corner- there would be a civil war in a decade or less. “And the first victim would be uncle, a defenseless High Bishop..” 

“Hiie-” Uncle sputtered inelegantly, “But-but… I am not even noble, and I follow my sister's order.”  

And that was the problem, was it not? “Mother’s ploy is blatant… it’s easy to gather evidence of mana and tax mismanagement, but Uncle… the one who Aub would punish first is you.  He wouldn’t hesitate to sacrifice you to shield Mother.” Uncle was just a piece who followed Veronica because he didn’t know better.  

One last push- Georgine would make this silly but caring uncle her piece. “Also.. it disgusts me to say this but, why did my mother make you High Bishop instead of a noble when she became the first lady of Ehrenfest?” Georgine asked her uncle, “You would have gone to the academy late…” She had learned the book of law, and it talked about going to academy at the age of ten but there was nothing that stopped her adult uncle from attending. “but you could learn compression as a student and increase your mana. Yet she used you…” It would be embarrassing but if he went off season and worked hard, uncle at the very least would have a semblance of status in noble society. “Did she ever teach you how to compress?” 

“...N… never…” Uncle stammered. 

Georgine knew how much uncle wished to become a noble and yet mother didn’t even try to give him the chance? Perhaps Veronica’s love for her cute little brother was only that much. “Oh, uncle… I wish I could have been there for you… she didn’t even try for you.” 

Bezewanst’ green eyes widened in shock, “...Sister used me?” 

“Uncle… she wants to send me to Ahrensbach to strengthen her backing, a marriage I never ask for.” Georgine hissed, “She said it’s an honor for me… but is it? Who gained the most support from you as High Bishop and me as third lady of Ahrensbach, Uncle?” 

None other than Veronica. It was never for their sake. 

Bezewanst’ eyes watered, “...I…trusted her…”

That was their mutual problem was it not? Veronica pushed Georgine since she was young to be beyond exceptional to compete with Karstedt, all to solidify Veronica’s own position as Aub’s only wife. Uncle was similarly used, the cute brother she pushed to highest position in the temple as it was where he was most useful to support her. 

 “I understand, Niece- I will do everything I can to help to save us both…” 

Uncle was now hers, and Georgine would ensure uncle lived well. 

Because they rushed, there was no other way but borrowing available blue robes from existing priests and shrine maidens. Georgine bribed them with a couple of silver coins and they were more than happy to keep their mouths shut and switch places with her and her aides. Apparently, spring ritual was not a very popular job due to the burden of travel by carriage and the toll on mana. Since the robe was not tight fitting, it was easy for her loyal aides to find one  that fit them. As for herself, uncle’s very old robe from when he was young just needed some minor adjustments that could be done in haste. She had wondered if they could just use summer colored costumes instead of blue robes to save them the hassle but Rozemyne disagreed. 

“No, you absolutely have to look the part.” Rozemyne had her hand on her hips, reminding Georgine eerily of Rihyarda. “You need to win the heart of your people through sacrifice, so it must be very real in their eyes.” 

She couldn’t help but smile amusedly, “Of course, Rozemyne.  I will not fail, so go on and hole up in your room to indulge yourself in Mestionora’s blessing.” 

“I am more than happy to oblige!” And off she went, humming an unknown tune as her grays rushed to pick her up before she got overly excited and collapsed. 

“Let’s go.” 

Of course even her most loyal aides questioned the wisdom of following Rozemyne’s advice due to her age and faction. Georgine assured them even if she made Rozemyne her Anhaltung, she would never follow without thinking her advice thoroughly. As uncle cautioned her that the toll of mana was quite heavy, Georgine didn’t underestimate and had Grausam brew several batches of mana recovery potion. 

Her first destination was to north, and riding High Beast made the trip much easier. Haldenzel was ruled by mother’s nephew and from what she understood was the land Veronica devastated the most. Her cousin who had recently became Giebe was surprised to see her and obviously on guard because she was Veronica’s daughter.

Giebe Haldenzel looked surprised when she passed the full chalices, and Georgine felt indescribable anger to Veronica. She had devastated the faith of their people on archducal clan to this level, and yet… their Aub just let Verbergen blindfold him in the name of love. 

After the handover, Giebe Haldenzel calmly accepted Georgine’s request for a meeting. After the initial greeting and lighthearted talk that was customary formality, a soundproof barrier was erected on request and the negotiation began at its earnest. “Lady Georgine, if you are seeking political support from Haldenzel for doing this… I suggest Jugereise dance. Haldenzel couldn’t afford the severe eyes of the supreme couple.” 

This too was expected. Giebe Haldenzel was a wise man. He needed the ‘full’ chalices but wouldn’t risk his people in pointless factional conflict when it was obvious her parents wanted her out of Geduldh to make way for Sylvester. 

“Giebe Haldenzel… the chalices are not bribes for your support, it’s your right to have to nourish Geduldh” Georgine stated sternly, “I do want your support, but not at the cost of Flutrane’s grace that rightfully belongs to Haldenzel.“

Giebe Haldenzel narrowed his eyes, “Lady Georgine… do you understand your situation?”

“I will return that question: do you understand our situation?” Georgine shot back, “Our Geduldh is devastated because Flutrane is casted away and the Dark God closed his eyes for the sake of Chaoscipher parading herself as Light Goddess. The cries of our people… Ordoschnell laments that she lost the ear of our supreme ruler.”

It would be just getting worse. 

“You wish to take heed of Gebotordnung in spite of everything? The truth is we have long lost her favor and just hanging on Duldsetzen!!” 

The duchy’s stability was in a precarious situation; it was only due to the endless patience of Leisegang rulers aside from the old count that kept the peace. What if there was famine or some other disaster? It would just get worse from there as her dearest mother would pounce to torment Leisegang for slight against Gabriele. 

Giebe Haldenzel’s expression steeled. “Then you are saying you will be the incarnation of Verdraos and Flutrane for the sake of our people?”

“I will.” The promised future was clear, “I shall deliver Verdraos’ to right the wrong, and bestow Chaosliefe’s favor.” She inhaled deeply, “My current position.” She placed a hand over her white robe. “I am merely ensuring Flutane’s clear tide to flow fairly to every corner of our duchy.” 

She was already on her first step and showing herself wearing the white robe meant there was no going back. 

“You don’t have to give your answer now.” Georgine told him with a smile, “I will give you until mid-summer, I believe you have heard that the previous Aub Werkenstock has climbed to the towering height and Aub would be gone for the funeral?” 

Giebe Haldenzel nodded, “Yes… but why then?”

“Before my father returns I will show you proof of my determination to be Verdraos, you can give me your answer then.” 

“Very well.” 

Their willingness to give an answer was all Georgine needed to ask for now. She didn’t dawdle for long and quickly departed to the major provinces of Ruenwalt then Kimberga. She didn’t attempt approaching Groschel because who knows how many eyes her mother kept there and Leisegang was the same. Instead Georgine had Giebe Haldenzel deliver the chalices for the two provinces, all full, while speaking to them on her behalf. 

The spring ceremony that required her mana as Uncle said was really tasking but Grausam said it seemed to be a very good mana exercise. Georgine wondered if there was more than it seemed, something they had lost from distancing themselves from the temple. The first Zent was also the High Bishop after all. 

When she returned to the palace, she received a letter from Giebe Haldenzel that both Leisegang and Groschel agreed to hear her out and waited for Leidenshaft’s ray to warm Geduldh. They would also be sending aides to serve her, or rather… their pieces to monitor her every move. 

Wonderful, everything went according to plan.  

Of course Rozemyne made everything more interesting. When Georgine visited the temple, the little girl was full of mana after excitement from books she delivered as offerings. Georgine followed Rozemyne to the prayer room in amusement; that now she was ordained she could enter as she pleased. 

Rozemyne gracelessly had an attendant bring her one of the divine instrument. Georgine had to use all her noble training to not gawk as Rozemyne unloaded massive amounts of mana that should have no place inside that tiny body. 

“Oooh~ it’s so refreshing!” The little girl moaned as hugging Flutrane’s cane. 

…Etiquette- she had to hammer down several years worth of noble etiquette classes into Rozemyne’s head as soon as possible! “How ungraceful, Rozemyne!” 

“Meeeh, who cares? The temple’s reputation is so bad that I can’t go any lower-” 

“If you want to take over your manor with a huge library, you need to learn etiquette! Many respectable places with libraries need proper noble status for you to access!” 

“Eh?! Really?!” Rozemyne screeched, “I will work hard! Absolutely!” 

Georgine then questioned her about… compression, the one and only explanation why Rozemyne’s small vessel could contain so much mana. Of course, as usual, her answer was bizarre. “I am squeezing my mana into a box- and wham!”

“...I don’t understand.” 

“I can demonstrate.” Rozemyne then asked to borrow Grausam’s cloak, she then folded the cloak. “First like this…” Georgine and her entourage watched her and instantly it was easy to follow Rozemyne’s instruction, folding mana inside them like the cloak. “then- can I have a bag?”  

A leather bag was passed to Rozemyne, and then she roughly stuffed the folded cloak inside and without hesitation stomped on it with fervor and then sat on it. “There! It’s all compressed!!” 

“My cloak!” Grausam cried. 

“My bag!” Sidonius sputtered. 

Needless to say as soon as Georgine get a handle on compressing her mana like Rozemyne instructed- the gremlin apparently has enormous mental power to maintain this- she gave the little girl an hour lecture about noble propriety and composure that even if it was demonstration stomping and sitting on the floor was unsightly for a noble. 

For good measure, Georgine decreased the three books offered to one. 

Georgine valued Rozemyne so she enlightened her Mestionora of the value of compression. “So it’s like a family's super secret recipe…” 

“As long as you understand it’s very valuable, and as your master I will compensate you fairly.” It was much better than her method, perhaps- she had to use Rozemyne’s way to demonstrate to make it more effective? She recalled in academy the teachers would flail around giving suggestions most couldn’t really understand because the image just not coming together in their mind. “Rozemyne… I will tie this compression so only Georginian may have access from it, so what’s your wish?” 

Rozemyne beamed, “Well… I want you to support book making! I want to start a paper and printing industry!” 

“...You want to start what?” 

Rozemyne then explained parchment from plant and then method to duplicate written materials quicker than conventional copying by scribe. It sounded very profitable, it might as well be the duchy industry. Georgine was already worried about making rinsham a duchy industry, knowing the high interest it would gain and how the duchy couldn’t support such industry for long as Ehrenfest didn’t cultivate crops exclusively for the oil. Even Klassenberg at the north at times had a hard time meeting demand for their honey from what she heard. 

“Give me a proper proposal and prototypes… as usual be careful when working with your merchants.” 

“Yay, more books! You will not regret it, Lady Georgine, fu fu fu~” 

Not everything was smooth as soon Georgine found this compression was too effective especially since she was at the peak of her growth period. She was doing her best to surpass everyone in her family, especially her parents and Sylvester, so she didn’t want to stop. Supplying the mana through the supply room was not enough and if she went too often, her parents would get too suspicious. 

Grausam went to the temple to ask for Rozemyne’s advice and he returned with the shield of Schutzaria. “...She said Milady can just dump all your mana to the shield.” 

It became a routine as she hid the shield in her hidden room, compressed and dedicated. By the end of spring, a magic circle appeared in her mind and Georgine felt… enlightened. When she chanted getilt, the copy of the shield of Schutzaria appeared in place of her schtappe. 

“Ha ha ha… O’ Schutzaria, the patron goddess of Ehrenfest…” She might not be chosen by Aub Ehrenfest as his heir but the goddess herself had blessed Georgine. “As future Aub, I shall dedicate my utmost gratitude for you who hear my prayer… I vow to be the lord of your land and save it from Chaoscipher.” 

This was the divine decree of Schutzaria for her. 

Adelbert - A runaway daughter

The day of Sylvester’s baptism, Veronica declared him as Adelbert’s heir without any prior discussion. It was unprecedented, but Adelbert knew it was inevitable. Sylvester was their only son, with the most mana and attributes. He was also getting healthier under Rihyarda’s tender care. More than anything, Adelbert had promised Veronica  that even if the world was against her, he would always stand by her side. 

So he didn’t object, he kept his silence at the face of incredulity of his people. Bonifatius looked indignant, but respected him enough to not spoke against it. Veronica’s face was full of smile and relief, and Adelbert didn’t regret it when he saw the clear disapproval on the Leisegang’s face, those traitors who hurt his family- 

Then- Adelbert saw Georgine’s face, his firstborn looked pale… swaying with her eyes shimmered in mana. He then realized… he had kept his promise to Veronica, but betrayed Georgine in the worst way possible. 

The look of betrayal in her face was etched so clearly, not once- but repeatedly. Adelbert excused her repeatedly, even when she was nearly losing control of mana when announced she would be wed to Aub Ahrensbach as third wife, the highest position to sate her pride- she would be given position even higher than Sylvester. Upon marriage even Adelbert would kneel before her. 

Yet, Georgine never forgive him- and his heart break whenever aides he placed by her side returned with poisons and other injuries from her venting her anger on them. Even before he had to leave for funeral to the south, he had to be informed that the older attendant he had given to replace Rihyarda pleaded to be dismissed. 

“I tried to be Anhaltung… I tried… but milord, I can not even speak about being a bride and Lady Georgine would claim I am looking down on her.” 

Adelbert held back the pain in his heart and gave consent for the poor woman to resign. There was not even any time left to assign someone else to take over. If there was anyone willing to be his agent of Anhaltung and bear Georgine’s temper. 

* 

The late Aub Werkenstock’s funeral was a grand affair as befitting of Werkenstock’s second rank. He was more fortunate than their lower duchies’ peers from south as Werkenstock was closer to Ehrenfest, but he still had to cross Frenbeltag. Veronica wanted to cross through Ahrensbach, her mother’s homeland because she rarely get the chance but Adelbert had to convince her otherwise because the toll to cross Ahrensbach was higher than Frenbeltag. 

It was a long trip and they had to be frugal. His beloved wife wasn’t happy but she relented to his wish. The trip was tiring and Aub of lower ranked duchy like him couldn’t apply to travel through the gate like upper duchy Aub. Especially since the death was quite abrupt so Werkestock’s foundation was freshly dyed, there was no way the new Aub would waste mana on lower ranked guests. This treatment to inferior duchy like Ehrenfest made Adelbert wonder if it was indeed the best to place his daughter in a duchy of much higher rank than Ehrenfest. He would gladly kneel before her in the future if it would ease Georgine’s anger but- 

While his mind still wandered to their domestic problem, specifically for Georgine. Ehrenfest could not contain Georgine any longer. 

Yet- after his arrival in Werkestock, Aub Ahrensbach demanded them to come to his room. Adelbert didn’t even get a proper rest and had to drink restorative from Veronica so he didn’t collapse. They let their respective head attendant to supervise the unpacking, and after refreshing themselves left for guest quarter assigned to Aub Ahrensbach. 

The moment they came face to face with archducal couple of Ahrensbach, it was very clear the other Aub was deeply displeased. They had tea and sweets served but Adelbert barely enjoy a sip when Aub Ahrensbach declared : “Aub Ehrenfest, Ahrensbach could not take a lady such as your oldest daughter as our third lady.”  

Adelbert was shaken by the refusal, when in spring conference the Aub before him had said otherwise. Their Georgine was beautiful and was always a honor student, she would fit just right in grand duchy. “What prompted Jugereise to come between us, Aub Ahrensbach?”

Aub Ahrensbach frowned at him, “Aub Ehrenfest… it seems you have been severely deprived of Ordoschnell, you don’t even know the matter that has spread to Sovereignty.” He shook his head, “I will not be your Anhaltung, you should seek Ordoschnell yourself.”

What had Georgine done? 

He sent his scholars at once to seek information from sovereignty nobles attending the funeral, and fortunately one of the delegation sent by Zent was a distant relative of his aide. 

“Lady Georgine traveled all over Ehrenfest in spring donning the High Bishop’s robe.” 

His daughter… she had flawed herself to escape Liebeskhilfe?! This was so unlike his proud daughter, how could she do such a thing to herself?!

The answer to this mystery was quickly revealed as the report went on. The provinces visited by Georgine belonged to the Leisegang faction, and her entourage discovered several interesting benefits from spring ritual and divine instruments. In one move his oldest daughter had courted the Leisegang faction by letting Flutrane’s blessing to flow richer than ever, and then used her discovery to share it with teachers of royal academy as an academic endeavor when in reality… she wanted the news she was flawed by the temple to reach Aub Ahrensbach. 

“How dare she, Aub! See how rebellious your daughter has become, she even allied herself with Leisegang!” Veronica wailed pitifully to him. 

When they rushed home, it was already too late. His aides he left reported that Georgine had taken several Leisegang aides, all from prominent houses of Leisegang. His desk already had several letters from Giebes in the North and also Leisegang praising his “good daughter” and they had chosen the best of their young generation to aid Georgine for the good of Ehrenfest. 

Leisegang had thrown their support to Georgine behind his back, and if he dared to disapprove the aides offered his already shaky ground with them would disappear. 

“You have been had.” Meinrad said with a grimace. “You can no longer marry your daughter out, she is determined to stay even if she has to cut off Liebeskhilfe and Sterrat forever.” 

“She has always been so careful, this kind of high risk plotting is so unlike her…”

“Indeed… I am impressed.” Meinrad admitted. “If your heart is not set for your son I would ask you to reconsider, Aub.” 

Adelbert shook his head, “If Georgine became Aub, do you think she would spare my wife and son?”

“No.” Meinrad nodded. “Lady Georgine… surely you can tell by now what she promised Leisegang for their support.” 

His eyes widened in shock, “She… dares?” 

“I believe her speech to them is… she shall be Flutrane who brought change and nourishment to Geduldh, and she has brought down Verdraos and beckon Chaosfliehen upon us all…” 

Georgine promised to depose Veronica, the thorn of Leisegang for them. His daughter used her own mother as a sacrificial offering to get political support. Adelbert’s blood ran cold at Georgine’s ambition that even blood did not matter anymore to her. He wanted to summon her but thought better and instead had an aide inquire about his daughter's whereabouts. 

She was in the garden with his aides, and Adelbert knew that corner with awning was a favorite spot of Georgine to relax as it was quite secluded. Adelbert ignored propriety and led his entourage to see his daughter. He found her sitting serenely, embroidering white robe with the heraldic symbol of Ehrenfest to the tune played by her personal musician. 

“Georgine.” 

Her aides tensed and it didn’t escape Adelbert’s eyes that her entourage had grown larger, new faces- red hairs… Leisegang. 

“Oh, father…” 

“No pleasantries needed. Dismiss your aides so we may talk about your behavior while I was away.”

He stared at her sternly, but the serene smile on her face did not wither. Her retainers stepped back, and a soundproofing barrier was set up as he sat down on a chair across from her.

“Georgine, explain yourself. After everything your mother and I did to secure your prospects, you go under cover of Verbergen and destroy your future? And made Ordoschnell fly in the process! How could you do such a thing? You have not only tarnished your name, but sullied the reputation of Ehrenfest!”

Georgine’s hand did not stop, the needle still pricking with dexterity. “What future of mine did I destroy? Was it becoming the third wife of an Aub older than you for the sake of my dear mother and brother?” She wondered out loud. “My name… I am now hailed as a saint who brought Flutrane upon the land devastated by Chaoscipher.” She went on, “As for Ehrenfest’s reputation… How many talented people from our land fled to Sovereignty to seek Chaosfliehen? I wonder what good reputation sullied you are speaking of. Especially for a duchy whose rank is close to the bottom.” 

His fist clenched and unclenched in anger. “Third wife of an upper duchy! You wanted the position of Aub for this low ranked duchy so much that we had thought a position closest to that power out of consideration for you. And you spit in our face like this? You call yourself Flutrane, but do you know what nobles call women who enter the temple?!”

Georgine chuckled softly, “Power of third wife of upper duchy? At best I get you to kneel before me. As for your consideration… Where are my feelings in all of this, dear father? You are the one who spit on my efforts all these years by not letting me compete with Sylvester fairly!”  

The mana within him unfurled, and he kept in check along with his anger. “Are you so enraged by us that you demean yourself? And for what, the Leisegangs, the people who rebel against Aub and hurt your family? Their loyalty is as empty as a used feystone! Do you think they will stand with you when they loathe you as much as they loath your mother for your Ahrensbach heritage? You are but a means to an end for them, to gain mana for Geduldh and to be discarded when useless like the temple flower you have become.”

His oldest did not even flinch, the same intense fire on her green eyes lit up once more. “So father…. You acknowledge that you - the supposed Aub of Ehrenfest approve of mana mismanagement, inflicting suffering on your own people… punishing innocents due to factional conflict.” She began to laugh derisively, looking down on him. 

“Do not misstep with Gramaratura with me—”

“As for being discarded by Leisegang? Heh… I have been discarded by my parents, at least it’s clear with Leisegang what I can give and what I deserve to take from them.” Georgine placed a hand over the white robe. “I will not be a ruler who makes an enemy of my people, their enemy is mine…” She inhaled deeply. “I will save Ehrenfest.” 

Save Ehrenfest… 

Adelbert pinched the bridge of his nose. Her statement was tantamount to rebellious treason. He could discard her now, be done with the issue now she was no longer heir nor a suitable bride. Or rather killing her, he could disinherit her and put her in the temple. The Leisegangs would take offense, but if she kept giving them grails then they would only complain for so long. After all, their real issue was lack of mana. Without a claim to the archducal throne, Georgine would not be a real person to support.

Yes, disinheriting her would be easy…he could go to the academy and discard her medal, stripping her of her schtappe and noble status. Even if she killed her dedicated subordinates, the amount was not so much that the duchy wouldn’t recover.

However…despite all of his anger and rage, the foolishness of her actions…deep down Adelbert still loved his daughter. Her ambition and drive reminded him so much of his wife, which was why even the decision to give her to Ahrensbach was hard. And now, even though discarding her would be politically best, in his heart he could not bear it.

He thought hard of a solution on how to neutralize Georgine as a threat to appease Veronica and keep Sylvester safe, while not discarding her completely in order to not hurt his own heart. Meanwhile Georgine watched him carefully with calculating eyes, no doubt trying to form countermeasures in the event he would try to eliminate her.

After some thorny moments, Adelbert sighed. “For your affront to Gebordnung, by rights I should close your path to the heights at most, or remove you from our clan at least. However…I will settle with allowing you to join the temple as you wish. From this moment forth, you are to be High Bishop and are to remove yourself from the castle. Outside of finishing the academy, you are to not involve yourself with castle affairs. Feel free to ‘save’ Ehrenfest from that building of depravity that is the House of Gods, and see how far Leisegang’s support will go then. Because when you graduate from the academy…you will be banished to the temple forever. Be grateful for my benevolence.”

Georgine heaved a sigh of relief or surrender- he had no idea. “I will not thank you for your benevolence, Aub Ehrenfest.” She corrected him with a smile, “I shall be grateful… that you made it clear you abandon me for your wife and son, that everything I have done… is all pointless in your eyes.” She went on, “That day you told me you will marry me to Ahrensbach… that day would be the last day I shed tears from my cries being unheard by you and now…” She glanced at her entourage, waiting outside the barrier but to be specific her new aides. “I am now just like them… the Leisegang, your people you abandon.” 

Foolish child…if I truly abandoned you, I would have killed you long ago…

He kept that to himself and stood to leave, but Georgine decided to get one more statement in before the barrier was taken down. As always, she had to have the last word. 

“Oh, and Aub Ehrenfest… you said Leisegang harmed your family?” She chuckled softly, her hand had moved again to embroider the heraldic symbol of her white robe. Adelbert stopped in his tracks. “I am just speaking to myself...How could one believe a Giebe’s first lady who collected names to expand her faction was assassinated by Leisegang… and not the ruling clan of Ehrenfest.” 

Adelbert whipped around, alarmed at what she just said.  

“Who was most threatened by her actions at the time, I wonder? Even assassinating her son whose mana potential is the highest in the duchy that by magical contract would be the next Aub?” Georgine hummed. “O’ how convenient… there’s a clan that has been a thorn one can blame as to not offend the great duchy of Ahrensbach! They can be compensated by returning the first lady’s position to their daughter… fu fu fu…”  

If that was true…if Veronica was wrong and Leisegang was innocent…

It was all he could do to keep the horror off of his face as the seeds of doubt were planted in his mind. Adelbert did not reward Georgine’s goading with a response, but continued to leave the area, in his steps leaving his daughter behind.

Rozemyne-Gift 

She turned five this summer, and on earth she would have celebration with candles and cake. Unfortunately in this world there was no tradition to celebrate the day you were born. Rozemyne didn’t feel like celebrating either, her mother was a good person but there was nothing to be happy about to be the child of that deadbeat dad. 

Still! Despite all odds, Rozemyne was living a relatively good life. Especially after Lady Georgine came to live in the temple with her entourage, and Rozemyne’s supply of book tripled overnight. She just had to be patient enough to wait for her seventh birthday and then… Rozemyne couldn’t wait to kick  that deadbeat dad and his wife out of her home! 

“I should remember to keep some high quality salt.” A whole bag so she could dump them on those thieves. 

What else she would need for a grand expulsion in that glorious future? “A good pair of boots, and also I need to exercise.” In her magic lesson, Grausam told her about mana enhancement as one of few ways to use mana without Schtappe or tool. Rozemyne wiggled her toes, imagining the satisfaction of kicking their butt from the high stairs of her home. 

“Lady Rozemyne, please stay still… we need to wash off the rinsham from your hair.” 

“Oh, right!” 

After her bath, Rozemyne asked Ethel to ask Christine to lend her Wilma. Christine knew by now if she asked for Wilma, the gray was need to draw something for her. Rozemyne really wanted to buy Wilma from Christine soon, but worried the girl would be unhappy. Unlike the luxurious lifestyle like a laynoble they had in Christine’s place, Rozemyne worked her gray pretty hard and there was no just fun art time all the time. 

“So steel toed boots… Lady Rozemyne, won’t this be too heavy for you?”

“It’s for the future, also it would hurt to get kicked by this.” 

At that Wilma, and the rest of Rozemyne’s entourage smiled their ‘not quite’ smile and she knew it was sign for Rozemyne to be sent to High Bishop’s office.  

“...So, you make something to ‘hurt’ people Rozemyne?” Georgine didn’t even stop working as she questioned Rozemyne, as expected of the workaholic lady. Georgine placed another wooden board to finished pile. “I know you can be quite brutal but really… what did I tell you about your head on the pike justice?” 

“It’s too dirty and unrefined.” Rozemyne answered, careful with how she spoke even under soundproof barrier. She was not good at it yet, keeping her lips to move minimally when she spoke. “I am only thinking to kick their butt this time!” 

“Your legs aren’t even long enough for that! You will just hurt yourself.” 

Aside from being a workaholic, Lady Georgine was also a wonderful tsukkomi. 

“That’s why I will exercise and train my kick from now on!” 

“...With those hardened mana in your body, you can only do it in moderation.” Georgine pointed out, eyes narrowed. “Wait until you’re done with jureve.” 

Rozemyne pouted, “But- but…” Even if her reading time was reduced, punishing enemy of book was also important duty of librarians! “Exercise is good for everyone!” 

“...Is that so?” 

“Ah-” Rozemyne had almost forgotten, but Lady Georgine had just suffered a heartbreak due to her deadbeat dad who was as bad as Rozemyne’s. The older girl had cheered up but there was no way she had completely recovered from something that traumatic, and if left- Lady Georgine would fell into deep depression! Or rather, Georgine had long been in depression from abuse of her parents! How could Rozemyne neglect this as her Mestionora? 

“Rozemyne?” 

“Lady Georgine, let’s exercise!” Rozemyne suggested enthusiastically, “You really need it! It would cure your depression!’ 

“...my what?” 

Rozemyne gave Georgine a lengthy lecture on the wonder of exercise for depression she read long ago. She had no interest in the topic, but Shuu had made a wild guess that Urano became an extreemist bookworm because of depression and had roped Mom to force Urano to exercise. It was hard to explain the feel-good endorphins, natural cannabis-like brain chemicals (endogenous cannabinoids) and other natural brain chemicals that can enhance one’s sense of well-being.  

“A- anyway… Lady Georgine’s birth season is spring and I forgot to give you presents! So just wait and this earth day I will show you the goodness of exercise!” She beamed.  

As expected, Christine did not approve lending her musicians as background music for aerobic because it wasn’t beautiful. Also her dear friend pointed out, there was no chance to convince Lady Georgine to do funny looking movement. So Rozemyne had to rely on the knights to tell her what consist as exercise in this world. 

“We run…” 

“Sparring…” 

“Target practice?” 

“Ah! That’s a good idea!” Rozemyne decided. “We need a lot of hays!” 

So Rozemyne called her grays to use the excess of clean hay to make something. She even decided to splurge a bit and used the oil paint to complete her work. She really work hard for this, but Rozemyne forgot her ‘advanced’ art was too early for this world. 

So when presented with dummy practice Rozemyne made to likeness of Aub Ehrenfest and Veronica, Georgine was not… impressed. Even though she worked so hard to paint the hay and had her artsy gray to ‘style the hair! They also had to mix the paint to get the color of hair and eyes right! 

“...Rozemyne… this, this should be a disrespect against archducal couple but your art is so horrible you can let this pass as heresy against Kuntzeal instead…” 

“It’s abstract art! More importantly!” Rozemyne had enough of her art being criticized! “Here! I have my wood artisant to make it for you.” 

Georgine eyed the shinai passed between their attendants warily. There was an abundant of bamboo in Ehrenfest, so it was easy to make. “...What is this for?” 

Rozemyne grinned, “Lady Georgine… you use it to hit the training dummy… as hard as you want.” 

“Eh?” 

“Grausam also made this special soundproof choker for you to wear, so even if you yell and curse during work hour.” In which her orphans would be in the workshop working on games and rinsham. “Nobody would hear you… so unleash it all!” 

Vicious light shone in lady Georgine’s eyes and Rozemyne gave herself a mental pat on tha back. Since that day, one could always find their High Bishop diligently hitting target practice with likeness of aub Ehrenfest and Veronica by second bell before breakfast, and seventh bell before greeting Scraltraum.

It took just a week for their High Bishop to obliterate the target practice and her diligent grays had to remake them. Of course, since Lady Georgine was such a responsible person, she ‘paid’ for the hay. 

By the second week, the knights serving in the temple realized. “...Lady Georgine has no training whatsoever for swordmanship but… isn’t she talented?” 

“...She is also getting very skilled with mana enhancement.”

“Since when our lady is this strong?” 

By the end of first month they realized Lady Georgine had excess of Angriff’s protection, she was a natural with sword and when  they had a swordsmanship instructor invited to assess her… 

Ansehelm of Kimberger after he picked his jaw from the floor, declared : “...She is a genius with sword, she possesses both transcendental finesse and innate talent for it! What a shame she is not trained since young but…” 

Lady Georgine uncharacteristically respond. “...I will also be  the strongest then.” 

“Huh?” 

“...I will surpass my father as Aub, and I see no reason why should I not surpass my uncle, Bonifatius if I have what it takes.” 

Everyone in the training ground fell silent at that declaration, before they voiced their encouragement for her. Grausam cheered the loudest and said something as scary as beating Lady Georgine’s paternal uncle to pulp. 

Rozemyne felt like she had unleashed something she shouldn’t. 

Unknown to them, certain musclehead felt chill down his spine as he looked at the direction of the temple.

Notes:

There you have it!

Chapter 3: Robinhood Project

Chapter by Ashyko, Fey_Storyteller

Summary:

Georgine, Rozemyne and the gang made a not-so-friendly visit in neighborhood of noble district.

Notes:

Thank you for waiting this week!

Robinhood Project

That was easy, Georgine had suspected this before but her father was really the worst. She knew that look he shot at her, thinking he was of high morals as he didn’t punish her with purgatory of Dark God for her misconduct. If he truly lived up to his high expectation of his morality, Aub Ehrenfest would have stopped Veronica from tormenting innocent lives in their duchy. 

It was clear who owed Veronica her justice, and it was not those pre-baptism children or commoners getting cheated off Flutrane’s blessing to nourish their soil. 

Of course when she returned to the temple, bringing the rest of her belongings from the palace, Rozemyne asked the reason. Georgine just smiled and told her what had happened. “At last I gave him enough justification to drive me away from the castle.”  

Rozemyne’s anger was surprising, and Georgine ordered a gray attendant to bring a sacred tool with haste. Georgine knew Rozemyne would symphatize with her plight, having been banished from her own estate but this fury was something else. Why did this child feel so much for Georgine? 

“Your father is a hypocrite, Lady Georgine.” Rozemyne grumbled, “The worst…” Her golden eyes narrowed at Georgine. “Never be like him. When a leader makes mistakes the one that suffers is their people.” 

“I know, Rozemyne.” Georgine replied with a smirk. “I admit I almost went down the wrong path in my despair… oh how terrifying, I was really their daughter.” She placed a hand on her chest. “I will save Ehrenfest… that’s my sworn duty to Gebotordnung, Schutzaria, and our people.” 

Rozemyne grinned, “Of course! Let’s start from a [robinhood] project!” 

“...What is this [Robinhood]?”  

“We’re going to steal- I mean… take back stolen goods from evil nobles!” 

Georgine held her head, rubbing her temple. A habit she was developing, the longer she knew Rozemyne. “...How exactly you want to pull that off?”

“I will ask for Schraltraum’s help.” 

Three days later, Georgine and her entourage returned to the noble quarter incognito. Rozemyne was cackling all the way. Georgine to be honest was only following Rozemyne’s mad plan out of curiosity, and had sent her knights to survey the perimeter of the house first. 

Rozemyne began to pray, for some reason clasping her hands together : "O God of dream and sleep Scraltraum, of the God of Life, Ewigeliebe’sexalted twelve, hear my prayers. Lend me your divine power and grant me the power to bestow deep slumber and righteous dream upon them.” 

 The blessing-er, curse-flew towards the estate, and after time that it took to finish a cup of tea passed she received ordonanz from her knight, Freylia. “Lady Georgine, all occupants in the house are…incapacitated.” 

There was a pause in Freylia’s report before she decided the word incapacitated, instead of sleeping. After ensuring the street around the house was as deserted as ever, Georgine and her “[gang]” as Rozemyne called them drove into the front yard like properly invited guests. 

Rozemyne whipped a key from her bag and unlocked the front door, apparently her nanny managed to steal it before being driven away. When the door opened, Georgine was greeted by the bizarre sight of servants fallen on the floor—and the supposed mistress of the house was on the stairs  with a bump on her head. 

Then Rozemyne did the unbelievable: she stomped on the woman’s face as hard as her tiny feet allowed and walked over the groaning stepmother. “Let’s go~ now we need that woman to raid her hiding room-” She made a show to look around, and then looked down at last. “Ah, there you are!” 

Most of the time Rozemyne was very softhearted, she couldn’t bear for children in the orphanage to suffer injustice. She also didn’t like blood and flinched in disgust when Grausam brought some for material. Yet Rozemyne stepped on her stepmother’s face without slightest hesitation. 

She poked her stepmother’s head with her shoes not so gently. “Too bad, I still need this ugly head in its place so we can open her hidden room…” Rozemyne sighed as Freylia picked up the woman. “Once we don’t need it anymore, I can parade it on a pike for a bloody [carnival] la la la~” 

Georgine and her entourage that was about to split up to find evidence stopped in their tracks. “And how would that brutality serve you?” 

Rozemyne looked at Georgine with a raised eyebrow, as if she just asked what Ewigeliebe want, “It’s a bloody [carnival] and what else is it for other than making an example of book thieves and child abusers like her?” 

This was Rozemyne’s dual nature that Georgine perhaps would never understand. She was compassionate for the suffering of orphans and would bare her fangs even to Georgine’s uncle whose status was unchallenged in the temple. Yet at the same time, to those she deem to be not her people Rozemyne could even be crueler than Georgine. This woman was supposed to be Rozemyne’s Veronica, the woman who heralded disaster in her family and yet…all she was good for in Rozemyne’s eyes was as an example whose corpse could even be desecrated to make a point to her enemies. 

Georgine despised her mother, but she knew she wouldn’t be able to to do what Rozemyne said she wanted to do to this helpless woman before them. 

“...That would be no good for your reputation, Rozemyne.” 

Rozemyne scoffed, “I know~ it’s a shame!” She lamented openly as they continued their path to the woman’s hidden room. 

Of course her Mestionora’s anger erupted once more when they saw her late mother’s room that had been replaced with belongings of the other woman. Freylia quickly pressed the woman’s hand on the feystone locking the hidden room and unlocked it, Georgine didn’t go in but stayed outside to keep an eye on Rozemyne. 

But when poisons, heirlooms and draft letters to Veronica and her fellow poisonous water goddesses were taken out of the hidden room. Georgine looked away to admire their spoils. lt seemed this woman was quite trusted by Veronica. There was even a letter that was kept by this woman, ‘congratulating’ her for taking over the house successfully. This letter should have been burned to protect the identity of her master, but Georgine supposed… This woman was keeping it to protect herself. The disadvantage of having too many names, the owner couldn’t keep all feystone in their person or keep track of every single one of them. So Veronica didn’t feel the need to order this woman by name to destroy the letter. 

This was nothing new even with nameswearing, it wasn’t like the master could read their subordinate’s mind. This was why Georgine didn’t like those ‘ordered’ by Veronica to swear their name to her, because she couldn’t trust their sincerity and hated the idea that their name being in her possession would lull her into a false sense of security. 

Freylia’s face paled, “Rozemyne, what are you doing? Young lady!” 

Grausam let out a soundless scream, “Just because you can’t take her head doesn’t mean…” 

Georgine turned around, and saw that Rozemyne had vandalized her stepmother’s face. The graffiti on her face was awful, and Georgine barely recognized Rozemyne’s artwork as rendition of a pig- Rozemyne had brought her soot pencil so the woman’s face was full of black lines. 

She shouldn’t but she took her time to admire the disaster Rozemyne called art, there was the pig graffiti, especially on the nose and eyes. Rozemyne also wrote ‘harlot’ on the woman’s forehead, which was beyond vulgar. But the most jarring was the line around the woman’s neck with letters, ‘wash it for the day I take it from you.’

“...Rozemyne, you do realize we have to waschen that or this woman would realize quickly she had been robbed?” 

Rozemyne just grinned back and prayed, “O’ Verbergen, Dark God’s exalted subordinate… hear my prayers. Lend me your divine power and grant me the power to hide my mischief!” 

The graffiti disappeared, and Georgine swore she almost heard a dark cackle of Verbergen by Rozemyne’s shoulder. Rozemyne stood up and stretched her hands in prayer. “Praise the God!” 

Georgina had enough and grabbed Rozemyne before leaving the premise with their entourage. Her heart pounded with both anxiety and excitement as they made their way back to the temple. They waited until tomorrow, when Georgine received the news that Rozemyne’s stepmother was caught attending a tea party when Verbergen’s blessing came undone.  

There was no news of the lady in that house realizing missing properties from her hidden room, very likely Rozemyne’s prank had distracted this woman from noticing. It’s actually a good thing. Of course Georgine would never tell that to Rozemyne. 

Why did they not notice the strange mass sleeping event? Simply because the time period of their sleep was not that long, perhaps less than the time one needed to take a bath. Also Rozemyne’s blessing was very gentle, and they had tested it on grays and her noble attendants. They woke up… very well rested and a bit groggy but for most part didn’t really notice the gap. Only Rozemyne’s stepmother noticed due to being given a nightmare on top of it, but the commotion over the ‘pig’ graffiti was a great distraction. 

In the wake of that commotion, Georgine and her entourage ‘hit’ more homes with high ranking Veronican Flutranes. This time she and her entourage timed the ‘mischief’ to distract the Veronican ladies. Georgine was learning from Rozemyne, and so she did the most non-noble style of sabotage. The season was autumn, but a certain fey creature was at the height of aggressiveness to prepare for winter hibernation.

So they let loose an army of talfroch to decorative pond when Veronican ladies were enjoying mild weather of autumn in the garden. Georgine went as far as feeding them potions to invigorate them more, and the day went down in history as the great talfroch attack. Her mother’s scream could apparently be heard by the entire castle. 

With the Veronican sufficiently distracted, they could start sorting their loot from hidden rooms of Veronica’s minions. By now most of her aides were heirs of their respective houses that had regained their heirlooms. She had told them to pray for Duldsetzen and soon the glorious day to expel poisonous water goddesses from their houses would arrive. 

Georgine was most delighted by the new collection of poisons and had been making antidotes. Cataloging poisons and their antidotes was pleasurable to Georgine herself, and she could see the benefit of having a complete set of antidotes for the poisons in her mother’s repertoire. 

“Lady Georgine, with these poisons collection I believe my cousin from Herzfeld would be most delighted to be in your service.” Freylia of Forst said. 

She tried to recall the relative of Freylia in question. “Ah… the second adoptive daughter of Herzfeld family, she is a apprentice doctor I believe.” She was in her third year and very talented to the point she attracted the attention of Sovereignty. Georgine heard this girl even applied to attend the academy off season with her older sister for the knight course.

This talent that was not of her faction obviously attracted Veronica’s attention, and she had put pressure on Herzfeld because she despised ‘doctor’ families that could get in her way. From what Georgine understood, the girls were originally archnobles living in the capital and their grandmother served Georgine’s paternal grandmother and aunts. They were driven away from the capital by Veronica, and the parents did their all to save their daughters. Countess Herzfeld lost her children except for the youngest unbaptized son, so she adopted the two talented girls. Both were given the education to inherit the house to undermine the second wife from Veronican faction from taking over the house. 

“Hm… so the second daughter-” 

“Yes, Wisteria.” Freylia’s eyes shone with pride. “We were close and we met up whenever we visited the capital. Wisteria is a pharmacist, and she is collecting Veronican poisons to find the antidotes so she would love to come to us!” 

Georgine hummed, “I was under impression since she didn’t come forward, she didn’t want to serve me.” 

Freylia blushed, “Well… she is skeptical, Wisteria is quite cautious.” 

“As she should to survive in this duchy.” Georgine chuckled, “No rush… just send samples of these poisons to her to do as she pleases, no need to come to me now.” 

“But Milady!” 

Georgine smirked, “Freylia… Bernadetta, Kilian, Rithauss, Giselle, Idalia… Avelina.” She called her Leisegang aides in attendance. “Those who support Ehrenfest as a whole are not obligated to serve me. Do not forget… your master is also a means to an end that is a prosperous Ehrenfest.” She looked each of them in the eye. “None of you should ever lose Sehweit’s protection for our sole goal of taking down Chaoscipher and saving Ehrenfest.” 

They all knelt in unison, resolve to serve Ehrenfest blazing in their eyes. 

Rozemyne gave a very lengthy lecture in hidden room on how she planned to make paper, which involved using plant’s fiber, extracting, boiling, and then mix them with sticky substance that would bind them together to some sort of cloth, and finished by drying them in the sun. 

As for printing… tiny seals with letters in dozens would be generously pressed in ink and then stamped on writing surface to create copies. 

Georgine didn’t know if either products were really feasible but she could see the logic on how it worked from Rozemyne’s explanation. The problem however… 

The Paper and Printing industry Rozemyne wanted would be a long journey, and frankly with how busy they were this year they could only start it next year at its earliest. As part of the down payment for her ideas and compression method, Georgine agreed to create a system for coat of arms assignments, in which she shall tasked students of Ehrenfest to copy manuscripts. The problem was that wooden boards could only hold so much writing and they were bulky. There were only so many wooden boards they could carry to the royal academy. 

“I want to start paper making soon!” 

Georgine stopped the disaster incarnate in the form of young Mestionora. “Absolutely not, this industry you want to start is something completely new and needs proper preparation. It is autumn already and everybody is busy with winter preparations. If you insist, think of writing media that’s less bulky than a wooden board and can contain more to write…” 

“Less bulky…” 

“And you can leave it to craftment to make… like now .” Georgine gently discouraged her. 

Of course this was Rozemyne, and she would always break expectations. “...Bamboo scroll maybe?” 

Basically it was a much simpler writing media made of bamboo that was cut into strips then string together so it could be rolled or folded for a more portable form. It was also less work to produce than parchment, and more sustainable as Ehrenfest had an abundance of bamboo and wood to make it with. 

This would also solve Georgine’s concern on the eventuality of ‘plant paper’ completion, that it wouldn’t be sold as cheaply as Rozemyne wished as a completely new technology. At least this way there was a better alternative to bulky wooden boards that would be available even for commoners. On top of that, the production method was so simple one could figure it out at a glance. So even if other territories ‘copied’ them when her people used them in the academy, it was not much of a loss. 

Still, it was a profitable invention and the craftsmen guild happily paid for the rights to it, further filling their pockets with Greifechan’s blessing. There seemed to be a bit of a tiff between the parchment guild and craftsman guild over the overlap of parchment and bamboo scrolls, but it was solved with mediation of the merchant's guild. 

Georgine was impressed by this intel brought by Dio, the owner of Gilberta. “What has the world become when commoners seem to solve their conflicts better than nobles…” She shook her head. “So this Gustav, the guild master, is a very capable person…” 

Dio nodded, “He is a very hardworking person who is also a visionary, he managed to grow his company to a new height despite all odds…” 

The odds being excessive imports from Ahrensbach and the decline of the breadbasket province, Leisegang. 

“It’s a relief this matter over bamboo scroll is concluded without our interference. Send my thanks to Gustav.” 

“Yes, Lady Georgine.”  

So the manuscript project to copy materials from Royal Academy could proceed smoothly as planned, and the craftmen sent heaps of bamboo scrolls at discounted rates for the trouble. Georgine was sure they could also use this for a long while as a cheaper alternative to plant paper Rozemyne wanted to make. Her Mestionora was quite rich from selling her ideas and would pay half of the cost, while the other half would be paid by Georgine. This was so she had some claim of profits on industry Rozemyne was going to grow, as Georgine had a feeling once her father found out about her temple involvement, there was a possibility her finances would be cut off if dearest mother didn’t do it herself. 

 

Bribes versus Corruption 

Uncle rigorously taught her everything she needed to know as High Bishop and Georgine beyond expectation saw many political opportunities for herself. Aub Ehrenfest was such a narrow minded man, he didn’t realize many rituals would let Georgine enter the palace and other noble’s houses. 

By the beginning of season she had visited dozens of noble houses wishing a connection with her, voicing their sympathy and well wishes for her temple life. Georgine, with Rozemyne’s suggestion, had started an exclusive club for Georginian. Many baptism ceremonies inviting Georgine had been used as cover for their club. Georgine would bring in the trends of her faction to share. 

Among them was rinsham, and Georgine had them sign a magic contract that her trend was exclusive to her faction. The other trend was baguette, a type of bread with crunchy texture that could be eaten with both sweet and salty topping. Rozemyne lamented they didn’t have [sugar] yet and wondered if they could use a substitute sweetener instead. That frightened Georgine as Ehrenfest was in no position to challenge Klassenberg, the biggest producer of honey, or Dunklefelger, the exporter of fruits. It was fine if they used it for themselves internally though. 

All in all, her faction was growing to rival Veronican faction. All without taking names as an affront to Geboltnung.

“You seems to enjoy being a hero to your people, Lady Georgine.” 

“I certainly do.” Georgine admitted during their office hours, Rozemyne was right beside her, helping with calculations. “What else do you have in mind, my Mestionora?” 

“Please punish corrupt nobles who steal money from our people!” 

“...How do you know that?” 

Rozemyne blinked owlishly. “They really did that? I just thought punishing corrupt nobles is the staple hero’s job!”

“Hm… corrupt nobles huh…” Two words echoed in her mind when Rozemyne brought it up. “Tax collectors.” Georgine’s smile widened, “Grausam, haven’t we finalized the harvest festival route?”

“...Lady Georgine told me to not bother and just use the old distribution…” 

Georgine smirked, “I have changed my mind…” 

After reading through the records and changing the route, they spent the next week preparing before setting off. The carriage ride was quite unpleasant, which made Georgine vow to make road construction a priority when she became archduchess. Rozemyne rode with her, so to distract themselves from the unpleasantness she took the chance to educate her Mestionora on the differences between corruption and bribery.

“Inferiors giving superiors gifts is a necessity,” Georgine lectured while Rozemyne took another stamina potion. “They curry favor with us and in return we establish a relationship with them giving our protection.”

Rozemyne looked at her in disbelief, “It’s one thing to curry favor for protection, but surely our Lady Georgine knew it’s never that simple. That protection could be the shroud of Verbergen shielding evil gnawing on Geduldh.” 

That caught Georgine’s attention, “...Elaborate.” 

Rozemyne cleared her throat, “Undetected and unchecked corruption is hurting Geduldh! How could your people believe in an archducal house that allows it? Do you really think public resources and money embezzled by them is just a paltry number?” She wondered out loud. “You let Verbergen shroud them as it is the ‘norms’ to you, but do you really know?” 

There was only one answer to that, Georgine couldn’t bring herself to answer she didn’t really know. 

Rozemyne smirked, “And that’s why… Ehrenfest would be eternally poor! From how you all make your financial report, your booking is quite terrible.” Rozemyne was the one who came up with how to make finance reports more efficient.  

Georgine just sighed and rethought about her first harvest festival, she had to remedy this issue somehow. Unfortunately she had been cut off from the castle, but she had to confirm Rozemyne’s wisdom in this. 

Eventually they made it to their first city in the central district, much to their relief. She had a gray attendant send Rozemyne to her room while she and the tax collector, a loyal Leisegang named Gordon, attended the Harvest Festival. It was her first time seeing such a lively and casual atmosphere. Sidonus was excited when watching the commoner sport called “warf,” while her attendants were curious about the unique food. In the meantime Georgine and Grausam kept a close eye on the tax collector just in case he was tempted by Chaocipher’s call. Whether it was because he knew that they were watching or because he was a man of character, he did not indulge in flowers, nectar, or other forms of corruption outright. She was fairly impressed.

The next day the mayor asked to speak with Georgine before the taxes were handed over, so she accepted his request. As it was inadequate to have pre-baptismm children to follow, Georgine had Rozemyne wearing a veil with embroidery to see through the cloth. The girl insisted to come with Georgine with unsettling smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. 

It was only when they settled in the Mayor’s quaint office and served subpar tea, Georgine realized why her Mestionora was grinning. 

“O’ honorable High Bishop, I have set aside for you flowers, nectar, and cloth… I hope they please you. Forgive me if we couldn’t give more, as last autumn we had to borrow crops from our neighbors and had to return it this year. I plead for your grace and promise to be more devoted when Forsente greets us again.”  

Georgine wondered if she imagined the sound of Verdrenna’s stomping in the background upon hearing what the Mayor had to say to her. She looked at the commoner, about the same age as her parents but with weary lines in his face. At some point he was already on his knees, not looking at her but his forehead touching the floor and his back trembling slightly. 

“...Let me see these offerings you set aside.” 

Georgine was then led to outside, where the Mayor went as far as preparing a carriage worth in supplies. There were also indentured servants prepared to be sent back to the temple.

This… this-  

Rozemyne beside her looked up to Georgine with her veiled face, and lifted it a little so she could see her Mestionora’s tiny smirk. She then mouthed, ‘Told you.’

Georgine smiled back and told her gray attendant, “...Make calculation of how generous the Mayor has been.” Georgine herself could make a rough calculation by sight alone and she didn’t like her own estimation of how much excess the commoners had been paying to blue robes and tax collectors. 

It took a while as the gray had to ask the commoners on supply set aside by the Mayor, and how they never weighed it properly. Georgine didn’t mind waiting, and after her third cup of tea- the gray returned with the woodenboard. 

Georgine gritted her teeth, a display of emotion inappropriate of her station but how could she not when he saw there’s excess of 30% from the supposed portion the commoners owed to them in tax?! 

Not ten but thirty! On top of existing tax! 

Gordon approached her, a resigned look on his face. “...This is the reality, the norm pushed by faction the first lady lead…”  

Georgine regained her composure and made her order clear. “Do not offer flowers, nectar and cloth to me or any of my subordinates any longer, we shouldn’t have fallen so low we rob from our people like thieves!” 

“Er, Your grace?” The Mayor looked confused. 

“Take the supplies back and return it to your people! You should only pay what owed in taxes, the rest should go to prepare for Ewigeliebe’s severity!” Then Georgine thought of her own wallet, she had generously repaid from trends she helped Rozemyne to promote. Not to mention, her own savings she kept when she prepared herself to break away from Veronica. 

“Also take what you have set for me, you have overpaid the temple and the new House of God I lead will not be in debt to their people!” 

For some reason the Mayor and his people burst to tears and then fell to their knees, thanking her profusely for… not taking wealth she didn’t deserve! “Thank you Your Grace! Your generosity warms our hearts even in the coldest winter!!! Thank you so much!!!” 

She repeated the same spiel for the rest of villages she stopped by, all Mayors thanked her profusely although some seemed confused she refused the bribe. Georgine paid them no mind, praying for her people to have a warmer winter this year. 

At one of the harvest festival feasts (which were getting repetitive at this point of the journey), Georgine broached the subject of refusing the bribes with the tax scholar Gordon.

“I have noticed that you have not spoken a word about returning the cloth to Geduldh. Are you not troubled by the thinning streams of Greifechan?” Georgine asked, scrutinizing the man as she did so. He was a relative of the Leisegang, so less corrupt than the Veronican scholars, but she had to be sure.

Gordon finished his drink before answering. “Why would I consider the streams of Greifechan as thinning when the flow from the heavens is just fine? I am being compensated for my work, and that is what I need. Rather…” he gazed upon the people, who were dancing in the twilight, enjoying their merriment in the crisp autumnal atmosphere. “I am in awe of you, milady, for ensuring that Forsente’s bounty is no longer being robbed of Geduldh’s children. It is as if Geboltnug’s light is beginning to shine upon the lands you touched, and it is an honor to witness.”

Georgine narrowed her eyes, “Gordon, I simply returned the harvest bounty our people deserve and need for unforgiving winter. It is as you said… it is the right order and I shall take no credit for that.” If anything it was insulting to be praised for not taking from commoners. 

“If I may… following the right order is exceptionally rare in our hometown. That you do so is a very admirable thing indeed.”

“You mean it is ‘rare’ to seek protection of Geboltnung under the thrall of Chaoscipher.” 

Gordon smiled sadly at that, “...It is as you said, Lady Georgine. Before we know it… becoming trombes that harm Geduldh has become the ‘norm’ for my peers.” 

“That has to change.” Georgine retorted sharply. “We are nobles who stand above commoners; it is the greatest shame we have to pillage from our own people to satisfy our greed.” 

He knelt and crossed his arms, “I would also pray for the changing tide you bring, Lady Georgine.” 

And in the last town she gave them the same grace, returning empty handed. Unfortunately this time the Mayor was more persistent. He was scared of punishment and what if they wouldn’t receive any chalice next spring? He practically begged her on his knees to take something for their peace of mind. 

Georgine was quite fed up by his insolence, and ensured neither of her knights made a move. Rozemyne spoke up. “Your Grace, just take something… and that would be all…” 

She resisted her urge to sigh and moved to the ‘tributes’ offered freely to her and all she could felt was disgust looking at sacks of wheat, fruits, and what else form of wealth the commoners offered to her inspection. 

“...hm…” None of these moved her heart and taking anything from this pile made her felt dirty, like those goons Veronica send to pillage from their people. 

An old woman suddenly came forward, carrying a wooden box. The Mayor and villagers almost let out a scream but covered their mouth in time, when the old woman put the box on top of gift pile with a very shaky hand. Instead of stepping back however, the old woman just knelt and waited for Georgine. 

Rozemyne cleared her throat, interrupting their staring match. “Your Grace, I think she wants you to have the gift inside the box… to open the gift in front of her.” 

Georgine felt a bit indignant by the silent demand but complied. She had an attendant checking the box first, and opened the box for her to see. Her green eyes widened in shock, and her ears picked up inellegant ‘WOW’ from Rozemyne. 

Within the box was the three most gorgeous fabrics Georgine had ever seen, it was black with cloud painted in ochre color and delicate lines of lightning. The color was of Schutzaria but the fabric depicted the scene of heralding spring. She urged her attendant to reveal the cloth in full, and was pleasantly surprised by even more delicate details. Symbol of five pillars and supreme couple was woven into the cloth, flowers of various colors bloomed with delicate dyeing that stood in contrast with the dark base. 

Second one had base red to ochre, and had Sentis flowers both painted and embroidered with glossy sheen of similar shade, the color reminded Georgine of sunset and warmth of Geduldh in winter. 

The last one was fabric with painted monochrome bamboo with embroidered silver leaves against dark blue base like darkest night in winter. 

It was both delicate and powerful work of art. 

“It’s [Yuzen] dyeing, and quite a meticulous work at that.” Rozemyne exclaimed. “I know this is traditional dyeing technique of our duchy but this is something else!” 

Georgine was snapped out of her thought by Rozemyne, “...This is for me?” 

The old woman smiled. “...Is it good? Our dyed cloth? Would you wear them to noble academy with pride, Milady?” 

Her eyes widened in surprise. 

“Oh- oh! I am so sorry My Grace! My mother is a bit senile…” Exclaimed the Mayor. “Mother, let it go! This cloth has fallen out of style, no nobles would wear it!” 

The old woman, the Mayor’s mother began to cry. Sobbing about a noble lady who ‘promised’ to wear them to her mother and grandmother, how she wanted her cloth to be shown to the whole country like in old days. 

Rozemyne being Rozemyne asked what was that about. The Mayor tremblingly explained his mother came from a long line of high class dyers who used to live in the capital. The Mayor didn’t understand very well himself, but due to the civil war before Ehrenfest’s founding the dyeing method of old started to disappear. His mother’s family worked really hard to revive it, believing their duchy could earn their past glory back if they dyed good cloth again.

But then… in his mother’s generation, the traditional cloth was abandoned for solid dyeing style from Ahrensbach. 

“Forgive my mother… she is a bit obsessed, and in her old age… she is… losing it.”

Georgine caressed the cloth, and couldn’t help but wonder how devoted this old woman was to Ventuchte and Kuntzeal to produce this. “I am very pleased…” She found herself said. “My exclusive boutique should be able to finish my uniform for this winter… as you wish, I shall show the splendor of our dyed cloth to the country.” 

The old woman’s cloudy eyes cleared up. “Thank you… thank you Milady!” 

“But what a conundrum!” Georgine couldn’t help but sigh, “How could I show such a beautiful cloth to my fellow nobles when they wouldn’t be able to purchase it for themselves in near future? Oh my…” 

Rozemyne beamed, “For devoted follower of Kunstzeal and Ventuchte, your patron goddesses would be so proud of you.” Georgine sighed, of course her Mestionora was one step ahead. 

Georgine coughed, “Your control is terrible, I shall be the one giving the blessing… overabundant blessings could be harmful to mana-less commoners.” 

Rozemyne grinned sheepishly and backed off. Georgine herself wondered if this was the first time she wanted to bless someone so badly, just like Rozemyne, who seemed to give it freely whenever she felt touched. “O’ Schutzaria’s exalted twelve… Ventuchte, goddess of weaving, Kunstzeal Goddess of art…” 

This follower of yours had devoted her all, may her be blessed with your favor. 

“O’ Heilschmerz-” 

It was more than Georgine thought she should give but her heart urged otherwise, blessing of Ventuchte was the matter of course but she also wish for this old woman to have goddess of healing and also longetivity. 

With that last blessing, Georgine and her entourage returned to the capital. 

Notes:

Ahem- so there you go- the robinhood project and new materials on harvest festival.
I give background on where Georgine gets the pretty cloths.

Chapter 4: Invading Leidenschaft's Domain

Chapter by Ashyko, Fey_Storyteller, Pookaseraph

Summary:

Bonifatius observe the disaster (revolution) Georgine brought to Ehrenfest

Notes:

It takes longer than usual, but I am satisfied!!!

Bonifatius’ POV 

When he heard what his oldest niece had done under the shroud of Verbergen, Bonifatius was so furious he offered to drag the young lady out of that horrid place of depravity. He had been wary of Georgine’s ambitious nature that was not suitable for a female archduke candidate, even more so when Karstedt reported Sylvester was terrified of her poisonous mouth. The boy had potential, but just a bit of poison of Glammatura was enough to cow him. 

“Then exile her somewhere else that would not destroy the honor of our clan instead!” He suggested the proper punishment to his brother. “She has rejected political marriage, and after you forgave her transgression.” He knew Sylvester was bullied by Georgine, and her defense was Sylvester should be ‘prepared’ for it like a proper heir. 

Adelbert shook his head, “Too late, brother… She is where Leisegang wanted her to be. It pains me but it’s for the best now Leisegang is quiet and Sylvester is out of her reach.” 

Bonifatius stilled, why would Leisegang wanted her there? Bonifatius asked but Adelbert was unwilling to answer. “More importantly… Georgine has promised them the demise of my wife for their political support. She wanted this position so much not even third wife of a grand duchy’s Aub could tempt her.” 

“...It’s never a good idea for a female archduke or a middle duchy Aub to be so ambitious…” Bonifatius was convinced Adelbert made the right choice. He promised to keep an ear and eye on Georgine. Or rather his wife and daughter in law would. 

During after-meal tea that night, he informed them as such. He needed them to keep an eye on Georgine and her faction that has recently separated from Veronica’s. No, he would rather they ‘stop’ her altogether! 

“Dear, of course we have done so even if you didn’t tell us.” Maxine, his beloved first wife chided him. “Although… it’s too late to stop her, your niece has Dregarnuhr’s and Flutrane’s grace to her advantage. 

Elvira nodded in agreement, As Mother said… it’s too late if what you want is stopping her.” 

“It’s a budding faction! How could it be a threat to your faction or Veronica’s?” He asked, 

Maxine smiled sadly, while Elvira held her head. “Father, the odds are now with Georginian.” Stated his daughter in law confidently. 

“How so?!” Bonifatius questioned, he had thought his sister in law’s faction was going as strong as ever. If there was anything Veronica was good at as First Lady, it was holding onto the power of her faction firmly. 

His wife, Maxine looked down. “She has taken the majority of Leisegang and whoever disfavors her mother to her side.” Maxine pointed out. “At this point, in spite of our lineage… we’re closer to be ‘neutral’ because Leisegang is now in full support of her.” 

“Wait… what’s left of Leisegang is…” 

“Only the hardliner, consisting of grandfather’s generation, all retired and unwilling to accept Lady Georgine due to her bloodline.” Elvira shook her head. “Who in spite of their loud Ordoschnelli no longer have any say in the family, with Lady Georgine becoming another archduke candidate that firmly becomes their representative… they have been cut off swiftly.” 

Those noisy elders were cut off?! So quickly! 

“What of your brother?!” Bonifatius narrowed his eyes. 

Maxine was quick to shield Elvira, “Bonifatius! They’re Giebes first and foremost, and so they would support the archduke candidate that would benefit their land! Even Groschel, the branch family Lady Veronica comes from, supported her daughter over her!” 

Even Groschel?! Well, they never get along with Veronica but they could still claim blood to their first lady. 

Elvira nodded, “The ladies society is ruled by trends, and Lady Georgine has released a trend no lady can resist. It's a potion that nourishes hair to be glossy, and she makes it very exclusive to Georginian.”

“Furthermore, how Lady Georgine dispenses trends in her faction is quite unique....” She said in her soft voice Bonifatius never gets tired of hearing. 

Bonifatius shook off his daydream, “...What did she do?” 

“The distribution is heavily controlled by magic contracts within her faction.” Elvira pointed out. “There are layers of protection in anticipation of Lady Veronica’s attempts to take it from her.” 

His wife nodded in agreement, “The workshops are also exclusively made in provinces that support Lady Georgine, purchasing it in her exclusive shop requires a Georginian membership card.” Then she added, “I believe Gudrun has it…” 

Gudrun was the fiancée of his other son; he had a headache already. “If you support my niece, neither Kardstedt and I would have any face in front of my brother and nephew.”

His wife shot him a cute resentful look, fiddling idly with her curly hair that was raised up to a neat braid that looped around her head. Bonifatius felt sorry, of course Maxine wanted the potion too. She had always felt dissatisfied with her curly and quite unruly hair in her youth. 

“So what of Gudrun then?” 

“She… is Georgine’s aide, it couldn’t be helped.” Bonifatius reasoned, already thinking ways to make it up for his lady. 

From what Bonifatius understood, Rihyarda’s daughter was left to serve Georgine to keep an eye on his niece. He had the young lady summoned later on by his wife, and Gudrun kept a passive face as she showed the Linkbergs, her membership card. 

“How beautiful.” Elvira commented. 

The card was a work of art even in the eyes of a knight like Bonifatius who did not care for Kuntzeal. Unlike the blank card for financial transaction, the membership card had a silhouette of Georgine’s profile carved to the center with flower she was named after at the corner with decorative border. On the other side was Gudrun’s full name and a series of numbers  and letters that seemed random. 

Bonifatius was then called by Adelbert. Aside from their immature first lady was throwing tantrums due to Georgine’s monopoly on the trend, there was a real concern by the swift change of balance between factions. The latest trend called Eflownefleurne’s nectar, if anything had driven his sister in law even crazier, supposedly it made a woman's face glow with youth. 

“The card seems to be the secret to how Georgine kept the trend within the faction, all her exclusive stores and its branch have the backing of reigning Giebe and Georgine herself.” Bonifatius explained with a shrug. “How did this magical contract pass the inspection?” 

As soon as the question escaped his lips, Bonifatius turned to his brother in horror. Adelbert nodded and sighed, “It’s Dankrad…” 

Adelbert’s former scholar who left the entourage at the beginning of autumn to join Sovereignty. He was a very outspoken person and righteous individual, and had been treading the line of disrespect. Especially since Sylvester had been declared heir by their first lady without Adelbert’s prior approval. 

Bonifatius agreed it was too early, and it sowed discord in the family and factions even if as oldest son, Sylvester automatically had the strongest claim to be the next heir. However, the dissatisfaction from Georgine’s supporters and Leisegang was too strong and rebellious. 

So when Dankrad prepared to ‘leave’ like many others, they let him go and let their guard down. Dankrad was a very rigid and righteous person, so even if he disapprove strongly of Veronica, he wouldn't do anything like this. 

“...It didn’t matter anymore ‘why’ Dankrad broke his principle to approve of this monopoly of trend enforced by magical contract.” Bonifatius felt hurt by that statement, he knew his brother well enough to tell Adelbert had an idea but kept it from him.  

Bonifatius let his dissatisfaction go, “In the end, the new trends are hers , there’s nothing you can do.” Bonifatius pointed out. “On the upside, my wife and daughter in law believe she would not be mocked for her new position in the royal academy, this… glossy hair liquid seems to be that powerful in noblewoman society.” Bonifatius didn’t understand the appeal but since the woman of his family said so, he could only believe it. 

Adelbert glared at him. “She still challenges Sylvester for Aub’s seat against all odds, this is very dangerous for the stability of Ehrenfest.” 

Bonifatius frowned at Adelbert, “Is your son Sylvester that weak you need to suppress a female archduke candidate this far for his sake?” He knew Georgine was very exceptional and a hard worker, but gender and support from parents trump that. “Aub… sooner or later he has to stand on his own against his sister.” That was the fate of an archduke candidate. 

His brother shook his head, “Sylvester is a child and Georgine has dripped poisonous words due to her jealousy… have you seen how Sylvester cower around her?” 

Weak! Of course Georgine shouldn’t be so resentful, but for the next Aub to be unable to endure some scorn to the point of being traumatized? Bonifatius held his tongue, his brother was his Aub and he couldn’t disrespect Adelbert by questioning his choice of heir blatantly. But still… wasn’t there something wrong if Adelbert saw no problem for Sylvester to be so mentally weak?

Compared to Sylvester… Georgine didn’t back down from Glucklitat’s trial and even surpassed expectations. 

No… he couldn’t even consider the child his Aub did not choose and even had exiled to the temple. 

The Linkbergs steadily refused invitations from the Georginian club, and Bonifatius’ Maxine was nearly in tears because her younger relatives were so persistent to get her to come to Georginian tea party. Bonifatius loudly proclaimed to him, his wife was beautiful as she was even without shiny hair and younger skin. 

“...Bonifatius, I… I didn’t beautify myself just for you.” She sulked in the privacy of their bedroom. “Being beautiful makes ladies like Elvira and I happy…” 

“Of course, my dear! I am so presumptuous! Forgive me!” 

Bonifatius knew he had misstepped, and cursed his niece for being such a cunning girl! 

Then one day, relatives from Leisegang and Haldenzel send their wives a bolt of traditionally dyed cloth in winter color. Elvira received a white cloth depicting the mountainous ridge of Haldenzel with a pair of Schwanne flying over the sky. There was painted gray trees on the fabric and yet even under the severity of Ewigeliebe, pale pink and bright red flowers were blooming on the branches. 

While the one his wife received was more subdued, pale dule pink base but there was a huge Schentis with the most vivid color outlined with golden thread. It suited Maxine, gentle but at the same time didn’t shy away. 

For a moment, he thought their family was consoling them for the betrayal of siding with Georgine. 

“These are heritage cloth revived by the grace of Lady Georgine… we look forward to see you when Schutzaria laid down her shield.” 

Another bribe… 

“Dear, I can wear this…” Maxine stated, “I remember this cloth, it’s my mother’s and has been altered to become even more beautiful!” 

Elvira’s face was bright and sparkling. “...Schwanne and dafira flowers, how nostalgic…” 

There was no way he could stop them. It was a gift from their family… and by the end of the day even if Georgine had a hand in it, this was not a new trend, it was Ehrenfest’s legacy. 

Karstedt also reported the temptation was really strong for ladies and begged if something could be done because Haldenzel was now supporting Georgine and Elvira was leading an anti-Veronican faction that had the same goal as Georginian so their social circle overlapped closely. Bonifatiius was furious because both he and Kardstedt served Aub and Sylvester, Georgine’s political enemy. This brazen attitude of Georgine was disturbing the peace of their household! 

Bonifatius fumed and wished he could meet his niece to speak his grievance but alas as long as she stayed in the temple Bonifatius dared not to see her. So he just send ordonanz, repeatedly- telling her to chease blocking others from buying the good stuff. She was an underage girl, Georgine shouldn’t be running an industry even if she was Aub’s daughter! Even if she tried to circumvent it by assigning GIebes as representative, it was still infuriating! 

When he was still stewing over her, an ordonanz that went unreturned, and his scholar begged him to stop making them waste feystones for it, Georgine and her entourage came to train in the training ground. Much to Bonifatius’ distaste, she had booked an open training ground instead of private indoor one. 

Georgine was dressed in light armor and riding clothes, drawing attention from the knights. Bonifatius might be Adelbert’s brother, but it didn’t mean he could snub her in public. 

“What are you doing here?” 

Georgine smiled, “Is it not obvious, Uncle?” She asked, “I am here to train. I wish to take knight course elective this year and perhaps more during off season.” 

His eyes narrowed at her skeptically. “I thought you have no interest in martial arts, much less swordsmanship.” 

Georgine’s smile widened, “I simply never thought I would enjoy moving my body so much… I am especially fond of swordsmanship.” 

“Since when?” Bonifatius pressed on. 

“Well… I was very upset in spring.” That surprised Bonifatius by how openly Georgine admitted so. “Apparently seeking Angriff’s protection could help to settle my grief, and I feel better than ever!” Bonifatius wanted to call her bluff but interrupted when they saw a newcomer, and it was no stranger to Bonifatius. 

“Ansehelm!” Bonifatius called in surprise, he was an adult knight assigned to serve Adelbert in their youth. He was hailed from Kilnberger and already in his late autumn by now. The elderly archknight was dismissed by Aub a few years ago by Veronica’s request for his outspoken nature. “What are you doing here?” The man should have retired!  

“Giebe Kimberger assigned me to be Lady Georgine’s swordsmanship  instructor.” The older knight declared proudly. “It’s a surprise to find the lady is so talented in spite of starting her training late, Steifebrieze and Angriff’s favor is overflowing for her!” 

Georgine was talented in swordsmanship? 

Bonifatius didn’t believe it, even though he knew Ansehelm wouldn’t exaggerate. The man was quite strict and not one to sweeten his mouth with honey. Bonifatius was no cunning man, but he knew how to use an opportunity when it presented itself. 

“Say… how about sparing with your uncle? As handicap, I will only use my left hand and no mana enchancement.” If he could show her frailty as an untrained lady, it would make his niece looked bad and stopped her faction’s momentum! 

His niece narrowed her eyes, And how we determine victory?” 

Bonifatius glanced at the sun above, and guessed the third bell would ring soon. “I will defend myself until the third bell ring, you have to scar my armor before then.” He leaned forward. “If I win, let my family purchase that rinsham potion…” 

“And if I win?” Georgine asked challengingly. “What’s in this bet for me, Uncle?” 

“Hm… you can use the training ground as you please as long as you don’t get in the way of Knight Order.” 

“That’s not a proper trade… even the Knight Commander can not ban archduke candidate and their entourage without just cause.” Georgine pointed out. “And you ask for ending my faction’s trends monopoly… which is not even my call to make as I please.” 

“Ugh.” 

“Instead…” Georgine trailed off. “I will give your wife and daughter in law ‘presents’ for your guidance if you win, and…otherwise…” She trailed off.” Whenever I come to train here, you will spar with me.” 

That was what she wanted?! More spar with him? 

“....Fine.” She didn’t ask anything outrageous for political purpose at least. 

Bonifatius regretted his decision mere moments later when he saw the proof of Ansehelm’s pride in his protege. 

Clank!

Clank! 

Her swordsmanship was remarkable, adhering to basic as expected for someone who just started but… “Kuh!” Bonifatius shuddered, his leg almost betray him by takinga step back. 

Georgine was a woman so it was given she was weaker and had less stamina but, the way she looked at Bonifatius was that of a vicious predator biding her time to devour her prey. 

Clank!

Clank! 

Bonifatius had excess of Angriff’s protection, but even him felt unnerved. Her mana was not calm at all, it was raging like untamed tempest but at the same time focused to the tip of her sword to cut down everything in her path. Bonifatius had heard his nephew held some fear against Georgine, and now he understood what kind of person this niece of his. She would throw her everything to achieve her goal, a force to reckon and fear. 

Still! As Adelbert’s Leidenshaft he had to teach her humility and restraint! 

So Bonifatius brought down his sword viciously, daring Georgine to back down and surrender. Only for her to not stop, letting his blade to run through her right arm. Bonifatius froze, the tip of her sword was now on his throat- cutting through his feystone armor. 

“I win.” She declared with a euphoric smile, as if she was not the one with wounded arm dripping with blood. 

Bonifatius stepped back. “Yes, you win.” He had to acknowledge that much. “Yet the one injured-” 

“I was fighting for my dignity, Uncle.” She declared, loud enough for all to hear. “As archduke candidate, I have to set an example… that we have to give our all to live the life we want.” She let her scholar fussed on the side, healing the wound as soon as they could. “Those who back down from Glucklitate’s trial would not earn anything.” 

Murmurs of agreement and awe traveled among the knights and before Bonifatius knew it, Georgine’s knights had blended with the knights and extolling her ‘virtue’ as a lady who was also favored by Angriff, Glucklitate and Steifebrieze. 

Adelbert was not amused, Bonifatius had unknowingly let Georgine had access to the Knight Order. So Bonifatius ran himself and his entourage ragged, keeping a closer watch on her and her knights from stealing support. 

 

Trombe was a vicious feytree, and brute force was not the key to subjugating it. The Knight order had to hack away branches after branches with Dark God blessed weapons steadily until it was deprived of enough mana to wither on its own. So they did it in wave tactic, utilizing numbers to take turns to give blows. 

So Bonifatius who was on the rear giving command had a full view of Georgine who arrived with her entourage.  Georgine descended from the sky on her high beast in the most domineering fashion possible on top of a nearby cliff that gave her a good view of their subjugation. Her aides quickly surrounded her in a half circle formation, and knelt in reverence as if the goddess herself had descended from towering height. 

Bonifatius gave his order and then used muscle enhancement to jump to where his niece stood. He raised an eyebrow as Georgine had modified the high bishop’s robe to be a dress with rich but elegant white and gold embroidery that if not for the ceremonial sash and large heraldic symbol on the front he wouldn’t be able to tell it was a ceremonial robe. She was also wearing a ringlet with a long white thin veil over her glossy dark indigo hair. 

She looked… very saint like-  

Georgine locked eyes with Bonifatius, spreading her arms in unison with her kneeling aides. “O’ brave knights… may the blessing of Angriff, the God of Valor of Leidenshaft’s exalted twelve be with you… O’ Flutrane of eternal five, lift the exhaustion-” 

Blessings of blue and green floated from Georgine and her entourage and fell in a shower upon them all. Then all of a sudden his subordinates’ movement improved and before he knew it- the subjugation took a shorter time than usual. 

Bonifatius returned to his squad, and then turned around as he found Georgine’s group had approached the devastated site. “What did you do?”

Georgine’s proud smile never wavered as she answered, “It’s the blessings of this High Bishop and my blue robes…” She said magnanimously before addressing the knights. “You all must be tired… so enjoy some refreshments prepared by my talented chefs.” An attendant of Georgine stepped forward, and now Bonifatius understood why she had such a large group for a mere healing ritual! They were dragging a time stopping magical tool! 

The lid opened and a tantalizing aroma erupted from the magical tool, the attendant then retrieved an ornate wooden box full of golden colored fried food! Followed by several glass containers with red, white and dark brown liquid. 

“This is croquette… made from freshly harvested potatoffel and kuer this season from Hasse, mixed with herbs from Haldenzel and fried with oil from specialty fruit of Leisegang province! The sauce is pomme, worcester and mayonnaise. Feel free to take a bite of Forsente’s and Cuococalura’s finest blessing.”  

Georgine took a bite of poison tasting and then offered one, each individual croquette was wrapped in bamboo leaf to keep one’s hand clean and the contrast of green with golden crust was beautiful. Before he knew it, he had reach out for the piping hot lump of deliciousness and took a bite after it was dripped with sauce of his choice. The soft potatoffel wrapped in a crunchy layer, bits of ground meat and herbs, enriching the flavor- the sauce gave the oily food a refreshing taste. 

 “This is so good.” 

“What is this, I have never heard of this?” 

“Kuer and potattoffel can taste so good?” 

Bonifatius was snapped out of his reverie, and he had eaten several pieces. 

“This is a special menu of the season that can only be eaten in autumn in our gathering.” Georgine announced with a smile. 

Bonifatius looked at her in disbelief, this niece was here to promote herself to the knights by using food as bait! “Georgine- you!” 

“As we have partaken in the blessing… let us offer a song of praise for Flutrane to heal the land.” 

“What?”

Georgine continued to smile, “In our research in healing ritual we discover singing praise and gratitude to the Gods would make the ritual easier…especially since it’s for healing our Geduldh.” 

Of course some knights started saying they didn’t know the song or the lyric, but Georgine assured them that in psalm they just needed to sing the chorus in response to her. 

“Georgine, what are you making my knights to do?”

“Uncle… This is the ritual to heal Geduldh, I am the High Bishop with full authority of how it’s conducted. Their mana would not be offered, I am just asking them to participate… surely the brave knights of Ehrenfest has no fear of little offering to Kuntzeal and Flutrane?” 

Bonifatius held his tongue, she was not wrong to say it was her call not his. If it was nothing too bizarre she could ask the knight to assist, especially since it was for the sake of their land. Georgine’s scholar stepped forward as she and the rest of her entourage took their position on the center of the devastated land, the slender scholar with deep purple hair began to sing. 

“O’ Flutrane, Goddess of Water we beckon your blessing for our dearest Geduldh. Fill the land in your noble color.” 

Georgine then began to sing by herself, “Flutrane, goddess of spring lay me down in pasture of green by gentle stream of purity~” 

It was a beautiful song that was lulling one’s soul, bringing the image of gentle river and beautiful Geduldh colored by Flutrane’s noble color. Bonifatius even found himself singing in response to praise the goddess of water. 

“Water always flow from the highest peak to every lowest corner~ blessing for all.” 

Bonifatius tensed instantly, looking around as the knights sang the chorus. 

“O’ Flutrane deliver us from long winter- crush the ice… repel chaos~” 

The chorus was sang again and Bonifatius turned to his niece who shouted, “Your prayer has been heard…” She had her Schtappe out. “O’Flutrane, bestow me your power! Straightkolben!” 

His jaw dropped, he couldn’t help it as he had been wondering where she was keeping the wand and Bonifatius didn’t expect Georgine turning her Schtappe to Flutrane’s wand. 

“O’Flutrane, Goddess of Healing and Change and exalted twelve goddess by her side… hear my prayer and grant me your power.” 

The words of prayer was the same but there was something more… sacred about the way Georgine did the ritual. 

“Fill the land with your noble color to my heart’s desire!”

It was instant, the land he knew needed days to recover took mere moments. One could see the greenery crawl upon the land, as if the goddess of spring herself stepped upon the dry soil. It was a marvelous sight and Bonifatius knew… there was more than what it seemed, Flutrane was not alone but there was Verbergen hiding by Georgine’s shoulder. 

Trombe was abundant that year so there were two more subjugations and Georgine performed as well as she did the first time. Bonifatius took his time to look closer at his niece, and he spotted the inner sleeve of her robe had feystones sewn into the embroidery and after the ritual it all became duller in color and cracked. Which meant to heal the land instantly Georgine put a lot of preparation in feystones and also compression. 

He confronted her, scowling. “Must you go this far personally, Georgine?! All of these to promote yourself to the knight order… I am impressed, I will admit! I will not side with you, Georgine and neither will the Knight Order! So stop already, why must you wear yourself down like this?” Bonifatius yelled at her.  

Georgine was unfazed, she just calmly answered, “Because if not me, who would save the land devastated by Chaoscipher and hear the cries of our people?” 

That was not what he asked but her answer… Bonifatius had a very bad feeling about it, what she just said planted a seed of doubt in him and he regretted asking his cunning niece. She used his question against him! At the same time Bonifatius was also ashamed, regardless of her sincerity… as of now the one who fought for  the good of their people the most was Georgine. Not him the knight commander, nor their Aub. 

Adelbert later summoned him, furious that the fame and valor of Georgine had spread uncontrollably in the capital. 

“She is showing off right in front of you, Bonifatius! Displaying herself as if she is the heir and savior of our duchy by healing the devastated land by Trombe!”

Bonifatius had never seen Adelbert this enraged, “What do you want me to do? She is the High Bishop, she decides who goes!” He pointed out. 

Adelbert sighed, running his fingers through his dark blue locks. “How did she manifest the Flutrane’s staff in the first place?”

“I have no clue! I have Leidenshaft’s blessing so I tried making the spear with no luck!” Perhaps Georgine just had a better imaging skill. He heaved a sigh, “Perhaps you can give a decree that she should stay still.” 

Meinrad, Adelbert’s scholar, refuted that suggestion. “Absolutely not , Lord Bonifatius… the temple now is under the severe eyes of our people. If Aub did such a thing the Leisegang will send a formal complaint or worse… incited to do something drastic…” He shook his head, “They’re already displeased that the heir they supported is not allowed to enter the palace.”

Bonifatius winced, “So they have truly taken her as champion of their faction?”

“It’s now Georgine faction…” Adelbert held his temple. “That cunning girl is using ritual and ceremony so her followers can allow her to visit the noble district freely…”

Meinrad continued, “There are a slew of new rituals offered by the temple under Lady Georgine's lead  house purification after misfortunes, healing rituals for the sick, and at times simply blessing pre-baptism children for healthy growth.”

“Those are nonsense!” 

Meinrad shrugged, “I have been invited to a few, and Lady Georgine expend mana for them… and as they’re rituals under the temple’s authority we can not interfere or it would set a dangerous precedent.” 

“What are you talking about?” He demanded, “Of course Aub can.” 

The scholar’s eyes narrowed, “No! What if… for example,  your grandson’s baptism could be canceled on Aub’s order.” 

Bonifatius felt his heart almost stop, and Adelbert looked at Meinrad incredulously. “I would never-” 

“Doesn’t matter.” Meinrad intoned, “The point is…  those ceremonies concern internal clan matters and you don’t want to set a precedent of openly interfering with them.” 

Bonifatius rubbed his chest, he still felt uncomfortable with what Meinrad said as an example. He was fine when Adelbert requested Kardstedt’s demotion to assuage Veronica’s fear and paranoia, even more so to protect Maxine from that woman’s ire. Still, would Adelbert demand such a thing if he could for Veronica’s sake?   

 “- and the trends, she guarded them so obsessively like Ewigeliebe.” Adelbert went on, when Bonifatius was deep in thought the topic had switched to Georgine’s trends. 

“That contract again? Is there no loophole?” 

He shook his head. “The magical contract is… if the product is passed over to those who are not registered to her faction… the one who passed it would lose membership and be banished from her faction and cut off from the trends.” Adelbert heaved a sigh, “The contract is passed, and it’s our carelessness. If I cancel it arbitrarily, our people would see it as tyranny.” 

Meinrad added, “There’s already internal conflict between young and old generations in many houses over this. As the younger generation didn’t want to lose privilege as Georginian and many convinced their parents to join Lady Georgine instead.” 

Which meant there was a crack on the once strong Veronican faction, on top of that between parents and child? 

“...What a Goddess of Chaos she is…”

Bonifatius opened his mouth before holding back his tongue, why did he almost speak up in Georgine’s defense? No, he shall not show support to his niece no matter how pitiful, he was Adelbert’s Knight Commander! 

Meinrad however said what Bonifatius could not, “Milord… this is the nature of trend of each faction, you couldn’t blame Lady Georgine for keeping her trends to herself.” 

Adelbert looked reluctant, “Even so… Veronica believe this trend would be something that attracts even upper duchies, what am I going to do if Ehrenfest is demanded for trade in spring?”

“Lady Georgine surely would not give it up without… compensation.” 

“...Probably access to state affairs…”

Meinrad laughed softly, earning their glare. “Lady Georgine is always enthusiastic for state affair…” 

Adelbert shook his head, “And look what she is capable of without access?” 

Meinrad went on, “And what of Lord Sylvester who will go with her next year, he has no trend.” 

Bonifatius and Adelbert couldn’t help but frown at that reminder, which was probably Georgine’s aim. She was never this active in the lady oriented trend, and Adelbert’s scholar theorized that was the aim- as the trend was restricted in lady society it couldn’t be shared with Sylvester. So this winter, Georgine could show herself as a female archduke candidate with a wealth of trends whereas… their heir… it was quite a blatant endeavor to make her brother look inferior in the eyes of outsiders. 

“What should we do?” Adelbert murmured sadly, nursing his cup of herbal tea. Bonifatius looked at his brother with worry, that cup of tea had been within hand reach constantly whenever Georgine was discussed. His brother had always been frail but his condition deteriorated since Georgine resided in the temple.  

“Where else has she spread discord…” 

Bonifatius tensed, recalling the gentle and beautiful song during the healing ritual to beckon Flutrane. His gut feeling said something was off but he couldn’t bring himself to say it to his brother.  He felt like being deprived of Angriff’s blessing and he ended up tossing about in bed because Scraltraum banned entry to his realm.

Few days later before the social season began Bonifatius decided to look for someone to confide his worry, he was Leidenshaft of Ehrenfest- this kind of stuff that needed too much thinking was not for him! So he invited Meinrad for gewinnen and after a couple of rounds he told him the main purpose of their meeting. 

“Song to beckon Flutrane’s… blessing?” Meinrad echoed. 

Bonifatius nodded, “Aah… I have my attendant who remembers the lyrics write it down for me.”  

Meinrad took the wooden board offered and inspected it, “Hm… I have heard of the song being sang by Lady Georgine so the knights were told to sing the chorus for her?”

Bonifatius nodded, “I feel there’s something off about it.” 

The scholar who was also their childhood friend smiled confidently, “You can leave this to me Lord Bonifatius.” 

“Ah! I am relieved to let you do the thinking, Meinrad!”

“Ha ha ha, you never change… Lord Bonifatius.” 

Bonifatius slept well that night, relieved he had someone investigate without alarming his sickly younger brother. Unbeknownst to him, that very night Georgine had a visit from a certain scholar who warned her of Bonifatius’ gut feeling and to be more careful with her propaganda especially around Bonifatius. 

Winter

The season began

The gift given to her in autumn impressed her so much and lit the Brenwarme in her to know more about the traditional dyed cloth of Ehrenfest. Even more so when in merely a week after she returned to Ehrenfest, she received a letter from the farming village’s mayor  that said in honor of Georgine they did their best to reopen the dyeing workshop with his mother at the helm. 

Georgine replied the letter with haste and told them to keep the workshop a secret, because Chaoscipher was still among them. Rozemyne sought her exclusive boutique’s owner for Anhaltung in this matter. The man asked for time to ponder the problem, and then on their second meeting he brought Gustav, the merchant guild’s leader. The guild leader was highly recommended by Dio. The man in his late thirties nodded, he apparently took over the guild about five years ago. His hair was a shocking shade of pale Geduldh’s noble color with sharp brown eyes.

“Lady Georgine, you can be their sponsor and set the workshop within their winter building.” Gustav suggested, “as their sponsor, its within your right to set security measures within the building and keep them safe.” 

Georgine hummed, “An excellent idea indeed.” What a sharp man Gustav was, “I can see why Dio recommended you but I wonder, why did you present yourself to be my Anhaltung?” 

Gustav smiled, “...It’s in my interest if our local product flourish once more, which can start from cloth… and perhaps in the future… our local ingredients which is the domain of my company.” 

That piqued her interest, “Oh? I thought Othmar is the biggest exporter of groceries, which include spices from Ahrensbach?” 

The guild leader’s eyes didn’t waver. “Lady Georgine…we’re indeed exporting spices and other luxurious ingredients from Ahrensbach, but they’re expensive and taxed heavily… but at the same time I can not raise the price for profits too much either so as to not displease our loyal customers.” 

The Veronicans… 

“You’re saying spice is not a profitable trend for merchants… or for our economy at all…” 

Gustav nodded slowly, obviously he was observing her mood. Georgine was of Ahrensbach’s lineage, and this topic could easily offend her. 

“I am an Archduke candidate of Ehrenfest, my greatest concern is my Geduldh… Gustav.” 

The man’s shoulders relaxed. “Ah… indeed, while the trade with Ahrensbach flourished, it’s just one sided. Also while many nobles following the first lady’s trends purchase spice, most of them didn’t really splurge on spice really…” 

It took her all to control her bubbling laughter at what Gustav was implying. Ehrenfest’s cuisine was terrible, and mednobles and laynobles following Veronica would rather hoard their gold than spend it on Veronica’s trends. But they were obligated to purchase some just for show, and so the merchants suffered from the influx of unwanted merchandise. Georgine herself had learned that spice was an acquired taste, an expensive one at that.  

The Leisegang of course avoided spice like the plague. 

“Hm… the duty of an archduke candidate is to promote local trends, what do you suggest for local ingredients?” 

Gustav blinked at her inquiry, obviously caught off guard. “Aah… I believe our sausage is the best in Yurgenschmidt! This autumn has abundant crop of fallods and other berries as sweet as honey!” Of course, a shrewd merchant also brought baskets of said sweet berries. 

Rozemyne sitting beside her wiped her mouth with a handkerchief. Georgine sweat-dropped, her Mestionora was already hungry. 

“...I am craving [fruit sando] now.” Then she asked the not so noble question. “Can I have those berries for my kitchen?” 

Georgine sighed, “...Would it take long?” 

“No, I have some [fluffy bread] made for my breakfast so we can have it quickly.” 

And so Gustav’s gift was sent to the kitchen as swiftly as Steifebrieze, then returned to their table as [fruit sando] that dazzled them at first sight. Beautiful pillow like bread as white as snow, with strange white jam and fruits cut in half- exposing the brilliant colors that stark in white. There was another kind of sandwich, stuffed with crushed boiled eggs and cut sausages. 

Upon tasting the new offering to Cuococalura, Georgine now understood what Rozemyne meant by the explosion of flavors in one’s mouth. 

Gustav happily parted with large gold worth of money in exchange for the recipe. Georgine told him to not distribute the recipe until spring, and they signed magical contracts to protect Rozemyne’s recipe with Georgine as her guardian. 

She couldn’t believe there was one more trend to promote this year, and Georgine urgently arranged a visit to her newly sponsored workshop to learn more of their craft. After all, firsthand experience is worth more than words written in letters. Even the stink of the workshop was worth it. 

Georgine admired the handy work of her new exclusive, the Gilberta company, for her new uniform. She wanted to cut off any connection to Veronica so her exclusive purveyor couldn’t overlap with Veronica’s any longer. Rozemyne then suggested her own exclusive, which Georgine accepted so she could better hide Rozemyne in the temple if their orders overlap. 

Their work was not bad, the seamstress had skill not incomparable to her previous one. 

This was designed by Rozemyne, and she was worried at first due to… her Mestionora’s devastating art sense but thankfully her aesthetic sense was still there. Gloria and Hildburg argued the dress was not feminine and almost masculine, and Rozemyne claimed it was unisex- a fashion that could be worn by both men and women. In spite of skepticism of her entourage she ordered the seamstress to follow Rozemyne’s direction exactly. She did veto Rozemyne’s asking it to be made of leather, which almost drove the poor seamstress to tears they might have to work with a leatherworker. Georgine thought that it better be saved for another time, so instead of leather they chose the thickest and stiffest material available.   

“Hm! One can even call you the [Queen] now, Lady Georgine.” 

“I am not sure what this unknown term you speak of, but I have a feeling I won’t like it.” 

“Basically when you walk by them they will be on their knees for you.”

Georgine stared at the smug gremlin, “That doesn’t sound so bad, Rozemyne.” 

She beamed at her and Georgine chided her for the unlady like expression. “By the way, Rozemyne… your suggestion to share with Sylvester doesn’t sound bad. I will do it… I will bring the cards Christine drew.” 

Rozemyne smiled, her cheeks flushed with happiness. "I am glad you made an effort to get along with your brother."

Indeed she was doing her best to get closer to Sylvester, but it was not all innocent like Rozemyne thought. She will share exactly how much Sylvester deserved at no cost. Georgine smirked to herself, that was… if Sylvester and his entourage understood how much they were entitled to her trend. Sylvester held no malice, she knew her cute and stupid brother would be fine on his own. However as archduke candidates they were never truly on their own.

It was quite amusing to see her parents obviously unhappy to see her performing the winter baptism ceremony, sending a stream of white and red blessing for the new children of Ehrenfest. “Welcome, new children of Ehrenfest.” She declared, her voice echoed through the hall to greet the new generation. 

She was especially pleased by the latest addition to Wiltor and Gerlach’s family, Laurenz and Mathias. They were talents in her retainers’ family that had been eyed for a while by Grauzam and Sidonius to be part of her faction. The two provinces were on the verge of rising their rank to archnoble and they foreseen a more prosperous future with Georgine than Veronica. 

Because that woman values loyalty and abhor those who can think for themselves. Many families that nominally ‘Veronican’ were dissatisfied with that, because Chaoscipher was destroying their future. It was fine when Veronica was around to be the absolute tyrant but what then? In the end this faction was named after one spiteful woman who was proven couldn’t even tolerate her own daughter ‘inheriting’ the faction. 

At best, Veronica would not mind Sylvester’s future wife if he married a woman Veronica could control fully. By the end of the day, Veronica’s rejection of Georgine has proven for all to see how shortsighted and selfish she was. There was no prosperity beyond ‘her’ era to Veronica. 

On the other hand, in the temple Georgine was already grooming Rozemyne as her tentative successor and was in the process of adding Christine under her wing. She also mixed Leisegang in, ensuring there was a cohesive unit between the mixed factions and rank and formed an united front and back. 

There was a future and unity under her leadership, those who wanted to prosper would know who to choose when the timing was right.

Notes:

Maxine, Bonifatius' first wife is based on Maximillian from "Under the Oak Tree"
She is the of direct Leisegang lineage and chosen for Bonifatius, it's a love match like first Giebe Groschel and his second wife.
Gentle, meek but can be stubborn. Karstedt is her ONLY child due to political choice, and how Vero would have killed her if she dare to bear more children.
Elvira doted on her mother in law, they're very harmonious for Mother in law and daughter in law pair.

Dankrad is the same scholar from Oceanus who used to serve Adelbert, he is actually not the ONLY traitor to Adelbert who wants to give chance for Georgine. He just happen to have exit strategy ready so he shoulder all the blame. I imagine Aub at some time period can cancel contract if they're unfair or unreasonable at his discretion if it's duchy limited contract. Adelbert would NEVER allow monopoly of Goergine faction. Hence- why his scholar played a trick to get it to pass his eyes and approved, when the trends spread- it's already too late.
The security they use is similar to one used in Romulus/Remus from Shumil BTW

Chapter 5: Preparing for Academy

Chapter by Ashyko, Fey_Storyteller, Pookaseraph

Notes:

Thanks Ashyko for editing this chapter and everything else hahaha!

Debuting Ventuche’s Grace

As soon as the baptism ceremony was over, the winter socializing began, by rule she should have gotten out of sight. However, as she was still a proper noble, and her dearest father still needed her to supply mana to the foundation, he had never taken away her access to the supply room. Even if he had verbally disowned her, officially she was still the oldest daughter of Aub Ehrenfest. 

So, she changed her clothes, smirking to herself as she donned a dress which was not the latest fashion; it was actually a prototype of a dress kept by her exclusive in all white from last winter. She was eager for the next step of her [propaganda] as Rozemyne called it, and it was fitting to ‘dye’ it in Ehrenfest’s color. So she had Gilberta adjust it, making the embroidery of the lion on her chest in glossy white thread prominent. The bottom of the skirt was adjusted so it didn’t flare, but instead created an artful drape that gave Georgine an elegant profile. The skirt was dyed deep red with white flowers of dafira, a beloved flower of Haldenzel that was known as the footsteps of Flutrane, seemingly blooming on it. On her waist was the newest fashion focus, a ‘wide’ sash that styled gracefully to display the dyed cloth she was given in autumn. Rozemyne had instructed her attendants to tie it in the [darari] style, but they could not quite achieve it so there were several loops with the rest of the cloth flowing softly down her back. 

When Georgine appeared, Veronica’s eyes widened in horror before turning to an ugly grimace at the sight of the dress being dyed in the traditional Ehrenfest style. Georgine enjoyed her distress for a moment before joining in the festivities, and she was quickly surrounded by people of her faction- praising her beautiful blessings for the new children, her dresses, and new trends. 

Georgine basked in their praises, while inwardly thinking she had a long way to go to rival the beauty of Rozemyne’s blessings. 

She was talking to Giebe Reunwalt about the northwest province’s greenhouse project when one of her father’s aides approached. “Lady Georgine…” The man seemed uncomfortable to be Ordoschnelli of bad news, but he did so admirably. Basically, her father didn’t like her upsetting her dear mother with her mere presence and choice of fashion, so she was asked to leave as she didn’t belong here any longer. 

Georgine just smiled, “I understand, I do not blame you for the whims of the supreme couple.” She then glanced at the elevated nobles around her. “I guess we can continue somewhere else?” 

Giebe Haldenzel nodded, “Of course, Lady Georgine.” 

Georgine gave them a secretive smile and then left the hall as requested. Her destination was her favorite corner of the castle’s garden where there was a greenhouse that had been made for her. She asked for it to be built when she entered the royal academy and was envious of the collection site that could be harvested all year long so this was her very own sanctuary. Her soft hearted father also never took this from her. 

Inside the greenhouse her aide had prepared several tables and chairs for a gathering. Following Rozemyne’s suggestion, she had added more rooms to her greenhouse by adding a mezzanine and had structure made of bamboo with holes to plant various greenery, it made quite a sight. 

She took a seat at the main table, and soon her people started trickling into the greenhouse, marveling at the sight. Teas were served along with stollen, which was a snack Georgine wanted to spread widely because it was long lasting and nutritious. The giebes and their entourages were clearly impressed by the bamboo structure and simple watering system. 

Georgine then handed them the proposal with a price estimate of how much they would need to recover economically. The giebes’ scholars would compare it with their harvest data and adjust accordingly. She couldn’t wait for her parents’ reaction to another mischief of hers. 

As expected, the day after the winter baptism and children’s recital, she was invited to the castle for a family dinner. It would be the first time since summer for them to dine at the same table. While she was looking forward to seeing her ‘family’, it was not for their… subpar dining menu. Rozemyne’s blessing from Cuococalura’s had spoiled her taste. 

Still, considering they were estranged, there was a very good reason to bring her own chef. Georgine was always an extremely cautious person unike her reckless brother, so it was not outrageous for her to bring her own chef and serve a different menu, which was exactly what she did. 

The look on her family’s faces when they saw her enjoying a different menu was precious. “Georgine…” Aub Ehrenfest shook his head exasperatedly. 

Her appetizer was a baguette with a refreshing dip made of pome and minced sweet fish from Ilgner. “Yes?”

Veronica spoke up, “Is the castle’s food now too good for you, Georgine?”

“I prefer food with a lighter taste nowadays.” She never really noticed before, but Ahrensbach cuisine that slathered everything with tons of spice took away the natural taste of the other ingredients. 

“Hm… I suppose since you are now deprived of Greifechan’s blessing you would forget the taste of spice imported from Ahrensbach.” 

Georgine went on eating deliciously and soon their salad came. Her attendant served a beautiful layered pale yellow salad sandwiching colorful cut vegetables and topped with cheese, a beautiful salad incomparable to random bits of vegetable in everyone’s plate. 

“What’s that?” Sylvester asked curiously.

“Salad, of course,” she answered patiently, careful to not glare at Sylvester. She reminded herself of what Rozemyne had told her; Sylvester was just their parent’s pawn, not her enemy. If anything, if she played her pieces right on this board of gewinnen, Sylvester could be their undoing. 

Her attendant lit her schtappe, casting a simple spell (usually used to light up a concoction cauldron) to torch the cheese. The tantalizing scent of melting cheese filled the room, and, as the salad was not heavily spiced, the scent was dominating. 

“It smells good,” Sylvester said, almost drooling as he stared at her food. 

Everyone in the room froze, including Georgine who couldn’t believe Sylvester said something so reckless. It was, however, not an unpleasant turn of event for her because surely her parents were squirming in fear for Sylvester now. Georgine decided to test if Sylvester was really that stupid. “I am sure there’s enough cooked by my chef for one more portion to plate. Would you like some?”

“Su-” 

“Sylvester, eat your own food, and don’t bother your sister,” Aub sharply interrupted. 

Georgine continued to smile as Sylvester flinched before continuing picking at his food. What an entertaining dinner this was! She also could understand better now what kind of successor Veronica was raising Sylvester to be and why she vehemently rejected Georgine.  Sylvester was to be a puppet Aub that ruled in Veronica’s stead, as their dearest mother was a mere archnoble!  

Or, as Rozemyne refer to Sylvester when Georgine told the girl about her brother, Oh- the poor but sweet spring child~

As she ate her salad, Georgine added another point she could sell to her people. If Sylvester became Aub, they might as well consider Veronica was only short of holding foundation as she would rule through him. So far she didn’t see why Sylvester would become her competition aside from parental favoritism, something she had gotten over by now. He would be going to the academy next year. Perhaps there was some excellence he would discover that could help him devote himself to the duchy.

Recalling recent reports from her spy in the castle about Sylvester running away again from class, Georgine decided to lower her expectations. Maybe there’s something… Veronica wouldn’t let him be too stupid, and Rihyarda is still taking care of him.

The next course was served, and Georgine realized belatedly that since she had familiarized herself with Rozemyne’s cuisine, she had forgotten that Ahrensbach’s spices were an affront to one’s sense of smell! Was it just her, or had the spices numbed her senses before so she didn’t notice? 

Georgine looked down. Today, the soup was vegetable and ingwer consomme. It was a very thoughtful combination that was gentle on the stomach and warming at the same time. Her eyes widened when she realized their Aub was also served that red flaming liquid Veronica called soup. 

She wondered if the court physician didn’t say anything about oily and spiced food being served to Aub worsening his health? This was also something she learned from Rozemyne, who commented that the traditional soup her chef cooked was going to melt someone’s stomach. Georgine herself felt so much healthier after changing her diet, and she couldn’t imagine how much of a burden these gourmet foods from Ahrensbach put on their Aub. 

It was not her place to say anything, but she could have her scholar spread intel that overindulgence in spices and oily foods was bad for health, especially for children and patients. Perhaps Veronica would take it as slander, but Georgine would consider it as an attempt to warn her family and wash her hands of the problem. 

The final and main dish was pizza, and Georgine cleared her throat as it was served, “The last dish of my course can be shared. If you’re interested, you’re welcome to enjoy it.” 

Veronica fumed, but Sylvester had learned to speak first. “Me! I want to try it!” 

The pizza was served: circular fluffy bread slathered with creamy cheese, potatoffel, and bacon. There were many types of pizza, but Georgine enjoyed this one the most as it was stuffed with many native ingredients that could be easily found in winter.  

As Georgine taste-tested the pizza, the delightful salty and rich flavor bloomed in her mouth. Georgine finished a slice, thinking it was a shame she couldn’t finish it deliciously by hand instead of with her fork and knife. Then again, such an ungraceful but delicious way to eat was meant for a private dinner with Rozemyne.

“...Is it so… delicious?” Sylvester asked, gulping disgracefully. 

Georgine just gestured towards the pizza. “Ehrenfest Pizza… please enjoy.” 

Aub frowned, “This food has Ehrenfest in its name?” Veronica scoffed derisively. 

Georgine nodded, “The shape is inspired by Schutzaria’s shield, and when it’s eaten, you are served a triangle like Geduldh’s chalice. The ingredients are all grown or made from products of Ehrenfest… wheat from Leisegang, cheese from Ulsten cows in the north, tubers from the south…” She listed all the ingredients and how everything within was from Ehrenfest. 

This was Ehrenfest’s potential and future so to speak. 

Sylvester took a tiny tentative bite after he was served a slice, before stabbing the rest of the slice and almost shoving it to his mouth whole. If not for the eyes around him, he likely wouldn’t have bothered to cut it at all.

Constanze ate quietly, but there was no mistaking the sparkle in her eyes. 

Uncle Bonifatius was trembling. “...How is it so good? It’s just cheese, bacon, and potatoffel!” 

Georgine took offense to that, “Uncle, that’s exactly why… the cheese is freshly made by my chefs; the bacon is smoked with fragrant wood; and the potatoffels were picked with care.” 

Veronica sneered, “Quite right… this autumn, you traveled all over dirty farming towns.” 

Was that supposed to offend Georgine? They all ate food coming from those dirty towns. 

After meal tea followed, and Georgine had a refreshing cuber (a variety of rezzuch that was more watery) sandwich. The vegetable was cut thinly and then mixed with herbed cream cheese. Sylvesyer was eyeing her food curiously again, but she ignored him. 

“More importantly, Uncle Bonifatius,” Georgine began.

“Yes?” Bonifatius asked, holding a cup that looked tiny in his big hand. 

Georgine began to rattle off a list of areas in need of knights to patrol in the central territory of Ehrenfest; several areas had been neglected. Her scholars and the mayors also reported the increasing activity of feybeasts and how it had started to affect their livelihoods. It was fine in winter as many feybeast would lay low, and the commoners didn’t venture too far to the forest, but in spring it would cause a problem. 

“Lastly,  Mount Loemberg has seen a higher population of badaffe this year. The provinces surrounding the mountain won’t be able to handle it. Badaffe are notorious for stealing leedsfalkes’ eggs, and the imbalance in population could result in disaster that damages at least four provinces if it is not handled immediately.” 

Bonifatius and her father, for some odd reason, looked at her in surprise. “You know all this from your trip?” her uncle confirmed.

“Yes, including the horde of badaffe that tried to jump into my servants’ carriage. Of course, it’s a very rewarding journey; I am very satisfied.” Georgine was especially pleased with the fabrics given to her by the old woman blessed by Ventuchte and Kuntzeal. 

“Georgine, do not play Ordoschineli to make yourself look better,” Veronica warned, face twisted with displeasure.

She gave Veronica a smile in return, “Oh, did you notice? Eflownefleurne’s nectar really does work wonders for my complexion!” 

Georgine left the castle with a smile on her face. She had extracted a promise from her uncle to send his men to affected areas she reported and managed to turn Veronica an interesting shade of purple. It was certainly fun, and Georgine couldn't care less of the disapproving look sent her way by Aub Ehrenfest. 

One might think she deserved some gratitude as now the court chef learned to cut down on the use of spices and no longer serve food that tormented Sylvester’s and Aub’s stomachs, however, her father would never acknowledge her– that was a given. Her plot succeeded, the intel spread by Grausam’s subordinate to the court chefs convinced them to discuss whether the food they cooked possibly made Aub sicker. After adjusting the recipes to test this, the chefs found the archduke was healthier, and they were now preparing dishes accordingly.

The Veronica faction, of course, took it as slander against commodities from Ahrensbach and blew the issue out of proportion. Now everyone knew there was a problem with consuming traditional Ahrensbach cuisine, and the Veronica faction was denying it. Georgine was amused; when it was kept within the castle chefs and physicians, it was just a report from people concerned for their Aub’s health. Now though… it had become a genuine attack of Ordochineli against Ahrensbach’s commodities in Ehrenfest.  

Surprisingly, Veronica of all people sought information from Ahrensbach when the matter was brought to her attention. She threw a tantrum at first, but for all her cruelty, her care for her husband was genuine. Veronica was obviously unhappy to discover the spices she imported from Ahrensbach had put Aub’s health in jeopardy, but her hard use of spice for her father’s food had still lessened. 

The Leisegang clan was being graceful, for most part, but the hardliners sneered at how Lady Veronica, who had been playing physician to the archduke, had unknowingly worsened both his and their son’s health. The latter was a surprise, but Sylvester, who had become uselessly healthy under Rihyarda’s care, did indeed still possess a weak stomach.  

Of course, Georgine made it no secret she had spread the information. She didn’t have her scholars scream it for all to hear, but anyone could trace the information back to her. She never expected an apology or gratitude, but this was something else. 

Apparently it had dawned on her that the food Georgine served last night had the potential to be trends, and of course Veronica wanted to take them for herself. So, as she always did, she demanded Georgine hand over her chef. It was absurd. Georgine had kept a close eye on Rozemyne’s efforts to raise the quality of food in the temple. It was very similar to raising your aides, and one could say a chef was a very important ‘aide’ for nobles even if they were commoners. 

Georgine would sooner give up the likes of Gloria, a mednoble, than give away her chefs. 

“That’s not possible, I need my chefs to accompany me to the academy.” She had trendy snacks to spread, and if possible, she needed to find that [sugar] Rozemyne wanted so much. 

Mother glared at her heatedly, “It's a request from Aub, Georgine. Know your place.” 

She pointedly ignored that reprimand. “It’s unreasonable considering there are only a few days left before I leave for the academy… but I shall compromise by selling several recipes. How about everything served last night?” She glanced at Grausam, who quickly pulled out a slate and made a quick calculation. Georgine quickly glanced at the number, then nodded for him to show her mother. “Here it is…” 

“Georgine, do you have any loyalty left for your Aub and father?”

“Do you not pay for the dress you are wearing, Mother?” she asked back instead. 

Aub Ehrenfest glanced at her, then at his wife, “Enough… I will pay for the recipes…” He was reluctant to make his wife unhappy, but as Georgine implied, not even Aub got everything for free in his own duchy. He was also obviously being softer towards Georgine for sharing information out of concern for his health. Typical of Lord Adelbert. 

Georgine paid Rozemyne with asylum, education, and investment in exchange for everything the young girl gave her, and Georgine wasn’t going to impart those blessings to her family without a price. 

“I will let one of my chefs go to teach the court chefs before I leave for the Royal Academy. Understand that all chefs under my employ are tied to me by magical contract.” Only after Rozemyne was baptized would her name also be included– such attention now would just endanger Rozemyne. Rozemyne’s father was actually useful for once because both he and his wife wanted the girl to be forgotten. 

The soundproof barrier was taken down after their transaction was concluded, and before Aub could dismiss her, she called out for Sylvester who waited patiently outside the barrier. “Oh, Sylvester… I have a gift for you.” 

The sweet spring child perked up instantly. It seemed they had been separated for too long since Sylvester had forgotten that he was her political enemy. “You too, Constanze.”

The adults in the room tensed as she gestured for her aides to take out the gifts. The boxes were about the same size and wrapped with cloth in a style Rozemyne called [furoshiki] making the box look like it had a shumil’s ears. It was honestly too cutesy for her, and Georgine could feel the strange looks from her siblings and the adults as the gift wrapping didn’t match the personality of the giver. 

Their aides opened the respective gifts carefully, and Georgine didn’t miss Constanze’s attendant silently memorizing how it was done. After the gift was unwrapped, the wooden box was opened revealing the present. For Constanze, it was a headband made of braided dyed cloth in red with gold flowers made from lace. This accessory would match her blonde hair well. While for Sylvester… 

“What is that?” Sylvester approached curiously as his lead attendant inspected the wooden card. When Orlando, his lead attendant, carefully showed him the king card modeled after the Dark God, Sylvester’s response was predictable, “How cool!” 

Georgine wondered why Sylvester was so easy to please. “It’s a new game called trump. There are fifty four cards inside a pile called a [deck], and you can play various games with them.” 

“A new trend?” gasped his lead attendant. 

“Indeed…” Georgine hummed, “It’s a fun game you could play with your friends.” 

Georgine didn’t miss the softened look on her father’s face, perhaps thinking she too would start making Sylvester the center of her world like them. She pretended not to notice and patiently taught her brother several kinds of games. He loved solitaire and Cursed Chaoscipher and, predictably, disliked Concentration. 

For the first time in a long while before she left, Adelbert praised her. “I am glad you are trying to make amends with your brother. I am proud of you… In spite of everything, I hope you can learn to accept your place in Ventuche’s grand design.” 

What high praise that was. He need not worry. Her thread was in her own hands, and it was up to Georgine to decide what her place would be. And for that… 

Georgine recalled the joyful smile on Sylvester's face as he accepted the new game, blissfully ignorant of the Glucklitat’s trial she had slipped within. All he was worried about was whether Georgine had tampered with the deck. She had– but not with poison. 

Let’s see how the foundation of our beloved heir built by Veronica crumbles like a house of cards. 

Rihyarda- Thorny Princess

She knew it was Aub’s order for her to leave Lady Georgine’s entourage for Lord Sylvester’s, as the young boy needed more care and protection as an infant, but Rihyarda was sorry to leave the girl’s side. Lady Georgine was healthy, and her entourage was already solid, unlike Lord Sylvester’s. However, much to Rihyarda’s horror, Georgine saw this as betrayal. 

“So… Rihyarda will abandon me,” the little Georgine had said. The girl was only five, but her face was devoid of emotion or tears. Only her voice belied her sadness.

Rihyarda tried to explain it wasn’t like that, but Lady Georgine didn’t want to listen. The girl had shut down and locked her out. Who could have known that since then the girl had taken to sneaking into the temple of all places! Lady Georgine had taken solace in High Bishop Bezewanst, a man who was the personification of everything foul in the temple. She had tea with the man whenever he visited the castle and went to see him at the temple of her own accord. Rihyarda strongly disapproved of Lady Georgine’s jaunts there, but Lord Sylvester was a handful, so she became absorbed in taking care of her new charge as time passed.

Years later, when Lord Sylvester had grown enough to be left on his own without Rihyarda’s constant supervision, she tried to correct this issue. Even if she had left Lady Georgine’s entourage, she still served the archducal family and couldn’t have the young lady fall in with the wrong crowd. 

Yet, her offer as Anhaltung was ignored. A particularly fanatic scholar of Georgine’s even scorned her. “His Grace Bezewanst is the only of Milady's family members who still cares about her feelings! If you dare to break Milady’s heart again, see if your son and daughter can survive in this entourage!” 

The effect was immediate. Justus reported the more… fanatical members of Lady Georgine’s aides had taken to treating him coldly. Justus even asked, “Mother, everyone in her entourage blames you for Lady Georgine’s sorrow. I am stuck in her entourage now… I don’t know what they would do to me and Gudrun to retaliate against you.” 

The young lady had grown thorns that pricked whomever she saw as an enemy. 

So, she backed down and didn’t even dare to breathe a word against the young lady’s jaunts in the temple. Still, it didn’t take long for Justus to attempt to quit Lady Georgine’s entourage by planning to also take the attendant course in his third year. This, of course, didn’t go unnoticed by Lady Georgine’s entourage and the young lady herself. She dismissed Justus before he could resign, making her son bear a flaw as an aide. 

This way, no matter how skilled, Justus couldn’t be transferred to Lord Sylvester’s entourage. Justus didn’t mind since he didn’t want to serve Sylvester anyway, much to her dismay. But Rihyarda could see Lady Georgine’s smug satisfaction from hurting the reputation of her firstborn and heir of her house as revenge. Rihyarda cried in her hidden room that day, recalling the hardworking and smart young girl who often got sick from being pushed too hard. How she looked so fragile with her feverish face and watery eyes, falling ill from the intense schedule she was subjected to as a female heir of Ehrenfest. 

If I had stayed, could I have protected her heart and driven away Chaoscipher before she became twisted this way? 

Then the bullying of Lord Sylvester escalated, along with the smear campaign that relished in spreading how inferior he was compared to Lady Georgine. Lord Sylvester was uneducated, slothful, and did whatever he wanted by escaping his classes. The worst part of this campaign by Lady Georgine and her entourage was that it couldn’t be denied fully. Lord Sylvester was indeed a playful little boy who didn’t like sitting all day in classes. However, twisting it just slightly caused their people to become skeptical of his future as heir. 

Then her thorns became not only sharp, but also poisonous. 

When that wasn’t enough, Georgine had attempted to assassinate the boy with poison. The boy was already born sickly, but she had no mercy in her attacks. Her excuse was that “he should be cautious and withstand at least this much as heir.”

Lord Adelbert then decided Lady Georgine could not stay. She had too many supporters and had moved to eliminate her brother before he even enrolled in the academy. She had to go. Only the position Lord Adelbert found for her was… the third wife of the middle aged Aub Ahrensbach! 

“She has a great ambition for power. After everything that has transpired, I hope she can be content living as a lady of grand duchy… wanting nothing and living in the luxury we could never give her,” Lord Adelbert said sadly. “If Dregarnurh ever weaves our threads together after her marriage, I will kneel before her… we all will.” 

They had to defer to her, the future third lady of Ahrensbach. 

It was announced so to Lady Georgine, and her reaction was so severe she almost lost control of her mana. Her entourage quickly evacuated her from the dining room, and Lady Georgine did not come out of her room for three whole days. Her entourage started running around like a den of frenzied badaffe. 

Lord Sylvester’s entourage became very tense. Rihyarda’s young master was terrified of what Lady Georgine would do but at the same time elated that his mean sister would be ‘gone’ and wouldn't be able to bully him anymore. It was painful to see him feeling that way about his sister, but what could Rihyarda do? 

Since that day, Lady Georgine had become like a simmering Elpberg ready to erupt. She was especially unkind to the aides given to her by the Aub and Lady Veronica. It was the norm for parents to give aides to their children for both surveillance and protection. 

Lady Georgine never liked them, especially so after Rihyarda left. Over the years, she would always find reasons to get them out of her entourage and only trusted aides she picked personally. The few that stayed reported they were expected to be mute around Lady Georgine, and anyone who dared to be Anhaltung on the matter of her marriage would be abused by those namesworn to Lady Georgine, regardless of their status and seniority. 

It was as if their sole purpose was to be the target of her anger and hatred for her parents. The attendants were her favorite targets; they often came in contact with poison when working in her room and were openly kept away from tending to her personally. Miraculously, Gudrun was spared from such treatment, otherwise Rihyarda couldn’t bear it.

Rihyarda was especially sorry for her replacement, a co-worker of the same generation. The last time Rihyarda saw her, she had aged by a decade after being transferred to Lady Georgine’s entourage. In the end she begged to resign and retire even though it was too early. 

Lady Georgine’s rampage cooled down all of a sudden, but the damage was quite… extensive. Many of her adult aides given from her parents had either resigned or been dismissed with dishonor. The latter were those who tried to persevere under the orders of Lord Adelbert and Lady Veronica to ensure Lady Georgine did not make another attempt to undermine Lord Sylvester, only to be burned badly. Aub and Lady Veronica welcomed them back, but their reputations were not unscathed. 

For once Rihyarda was thankful to Lady Veronica’s brother, the High Bishop. Somehow he managed to calm Lady Georgine down. She hoped the young woman would accept her place as the future bride of Aub Ahrensbach and continue her bride training obediently with his counsel. 

It was not meant to be. Georgine became fixated on coming in and out of the temple more frequently than ever. Her mentors for the bride classes couldn’t hold a single class as she was almost never available. Of course this was reported to Aub, but Lord Adelbert believed it was just Georgine still needing time to accept her future. 

Then Lord Adelbert left with Lady Veronica for Aub Werkenstock’s funeral, and as the Aub of a low ranked neighboring duchy with a relative married there, they had to attend personally instead of sending a delegation. Upon Aub’s absence, Lady Georgine’s presence in the castle disappeared altogether along with her most loyal aides. It was as if she had been waiting for their absence. 

“Mother! What should I do… I… I can’t seem to see Lady Georgine at all!” Gudrun’s composure was gone. How could she stay calm when she was driven away from her mistress’s side as an attendant?

“Do you know where she is?”

“...I-in the temple, but I can’t go there…” 

This was a test again . It was a favorite game Georgine often played with her aides– a test of loyalty where the aides would be put in disadvantageous positions like this to show their devotion to her. 

“Daughter, I will not force you…but perhaps it’s better for you to resign as soon as possible. I will help you by asking Aub to mediate… perhaps it’s for the best.”

She didn’t want Gudrun to be Lady Georgine’s target of ire. It was only a matter of time.

Aub returned home with a rare fury in his eyes, and only afterward Rihyarda did find out what her former mistress had done. It explained her long absence from the castle. Rihyarda did not expect Lady Georgine to be living in the temple– and as a High Bishop at that! 

“What of Lady Georgine’s marriage to Aub Ahrensbach then, milord?” Rihyarda asked fretfully. 

“Of course her thread was ripped from Liebeskhilfe’s hands as she desired, forcibly cut by Jugereise,” their archduke intoned coldly, his fist clenched. 

It was not only Aub Ahrensbach; no man would wish to marry a young lady that had been stained by the temple. Aub’s concern was not the ruined prospect of his firstborn’s marriage, but rather what Lady Georgine had achieved with this risky stunt. She had gathered the support of the Leisegang clan and their relatives, propping herself up as the Flutrane of Ehrenfest that would save their land. 

Aub couldn’t even bring himself to finish saying who or what Lady Georgine wanted to save Ehrenfest from , and he didn’t have to. Rihyarda understood. She was of the neutral faction herself and had considerable connections even as an attendant. Not long afterwards, Rihyarda received confirmation of Lady Georgine’s promise to the Leisegangs. 

The girl had promised she would become Aub and depose Lady Veronica as Verdraos vanquishes Chaoscipher. Lady Georgine sold her own mother to her political enemy for their support. The young lady claimed Lady Veronica wanted support by selling her off to old Aub Ahrensbach, and so she was very pleased to turn the situation around on Lady Veronica. The treachery she planned against her parents was unprecedented. It was only due to Lord Adelbert’s compassion and parental love that he had only banished her from the castle to the temple. 

However, being cut off from state affairs did not impede Lady Georgine’s influence at all. If anything she seemed to do more damage with the freedom she gained as High Bishop, traveling all over Ehrenfest to gather support. Not even Lord Bonifatius’s Knight Order was spared: she presented herself as a saint blessed by the Gods and called upon miracles, and was also a budding female knight blessed by Angriff. Rihyarda could hardly believe it, but Lady Georgine had a natural talent for swordsmanship, and, of all people, Ansehelm was teaching her.

The old knight returned to capital in high spirits, spending all his free time attending social gatherings just to brag about Lady Georgine’s talent and how she cornered Lord Bonifatius at sparring. Many young knights fell for her ruse. 

Then she welcomed many more aides from the Leisegangs and the neutral factions, all of them sharing disapproval for their incumbent Aub. It was most worrying. Their unity was forged like iron under Vukanift’s hammer, burning with dissatisfaction for their current Aub and his light goddess. 

If that was not bad enough, unique and powerful trends started to flow from Georgine’s faction. Rihyarda’s own daughter, of all people, was used by Lady Georgine for promotion. 

Gudrun was never the most fashionable lady. She took after Rihyarda in adopting a modest style. However, she had always been in a shaky position in the entourage as the child of a ‘traitor’ to Lady Georgine. So she obeyed Georgine’s order to model trends. It was quite insulting to Lady Veronica that her daughter had shiny hair, glossy lips, and glowing skin when she, the First Lady of Ehrenfest, did not receive the same privilege. 

Of course Lady Georgine had set measures to have the trends guarded jealously with magical contracts. Gudrun couldn’t pass anything to Lady Veronica even if their first lady asked. 

Her daughter then reported that Lady Georgine and her entourage had prepared more vigorously than ever for her fifth year; she even had a new set of exclusives! No longer was Georgine sharing exclusive craftsmen and merchants with Lady Veronica. Her aides were similarly busy with their preparations, and Gudrun looked haggard everyday. 

When the Aub received the news he understandably became concerned; while he was unsure what Lady Georgine was preparing for her fifth year, it was quite obvious what she was aiming for. She wanted to stand out more than ever and make stronger connections before Lord Sylvester enrolled next year and further the gap between them. 

The decision was then made by Aub that Rihyarda should return to Lady Georgine’s entourage to regain order. Rihyarda was surprised, but there was also a sense of relief. She found herself remembering the noble stoic face that looked out of place on the young Georgine after she was told Rihyarda would leave her for Sylvester.  

“...I understand Aub, and I shall obey.” She could make it up to Lady Georgine. Perhaps she could even convince the young lady to return to the right path. 

Lady Georgine made her debut for the social season in splendor with dyed traditional cloth of old. Rihyarda never expected she would misuse the pride of the older generation like this, gathering even more sympathy for herself. Rihyarda’s return as her Anhaltung couldn’t be delayed any longer, especially with the spectacle she made during the opening ceremony. Many giebes left the hall to follow her after she was excused! 

Rihyarda waited with anticipation for the first private meeting between father and daughter since Georgine was banished from the castle. Lady Georgine arrived on time, as usual. She was always a hard worker blessed by Dregarnuhr. Recently, however, she was also blessed by Kuntzeal and Efflorelume. 

Lady Georgine was dressed in a winter dress from last year. Rihyarda had seen this particular burgundy dress, but she had taken off the puffy sleeves that were trending last year. In their place she wore some sort of ankle length coat with a simple design, but the fabric was dyed in gradient of pale blue the color of winter sky at noon and darker colored blue of the night. Bamboo was painted over the rich gradient base in pale gray: straight, tall, and elegant. 

It was a very bold fashion, and in spite of its simplicity, she overshadowed everyone in the room. 

Lady Veronica looked at her daughter with distaste, “What’s with your outdated dress, Georgine… surely after the harvest festival you earned your keep for winter?” 

“Aah, this [haori] you mean?” Lady Georgine made a show of stretching her hand daintily, and it was only then Rihyarda noticed the unique design of the sleeves, there were… layers of vibrant rich colors and delicate lace. “It is warm and comfortable… what is there not to love?” It caught them off guard by how ‘lovingly’ Lady Georgine looked at the cloth. “This is the best gift I ever received…”  

 When was the last time the young lady smiled like this? 

“What of your veil, Georgine?” Lady Veronica asked sharply. 

Aub’s firstborn tilted her head, “Why would I wear a veil to hide my face?” She cupped her cheek delicately, drawing attention to her glowing skin. “Besides, in our Ehrenfest located in the northern region of Yurgenschmidt, I can not imagine when we would ever need a veil to protect our faces from the severity of the Light Goddess even in summer.” 

Rihyarda couldn’t believe what Lady Georgine had just said– something she had heard from Justus a long time ago. Her boy found out upon enrolling at the academy that the face veil was meant to protect Ahrensbach’s ladies’ skin from the sun and briny sea air, and that was why no Ahrensbach lady wore one at the academy. 

Lady Veronica’s face flushed, offended by the indirect critiques to her fashion. Rihyarda frowned in disapproval. Lady Georgine insulting her parents even indirectly was unfilial. 

Aub interfered before an argument could start between the mother-daughter pair by bringing up the main issue of this meeting. “Rihyarda will be your adult aide at the academy. This year more than ever you will need an Anhaltung by your side.” 

Lady Georgine didn’t even take a moment to reply, “Rihyarda is not one of my people; she has no knowledge of my trends, is unfamiliar with my current entourage-” 

Understandably Lady Georgine wouldn’t just agree to Lord Adelbert’s order. This was the girl that had crushed the marriage Aub had arranged meticulously for her. Rejecting Rihyarda’s service wouldn’t be the most surprising rebellion against her father. 

“-and worst of all… would not be willing to enter the temple,” Lady Georgine finished.

As one, every noble at the receiving end of Lady Georgine’s statement froze. The young lady expected Rihyarda to do what?! 

“Nobody would flaw themselves like you by entering the temple!” Lady Veronica retorted vehemently. 

“ All members of my entourage, including Bernadette here, accompany me in the temple as they should as my kin,” she stated firmly. “It’s the least an aide of mine should do…” 

The least an aide of Lady Georgine would do, Rihyarda echoed in her mind. It was another vicious stab to her heart. The young lady put her down for not being loyal to her. 

“On second thought… I will accept Rihyarda if she swears her name to me.” 

The Aub’s eyes widened with shock, and Lady Veronica’s neck went red with fury. “Absolutely not!”

Rihyarda, who was stunned, spoke before things got out of hand. “Lady Georgine, you know that is not possible. My house is neutral, and my service is always to whom Aub Ehrenfest orders me to. Turning into a namesworn goes against everything that I stand for.”

It wasn’t the first time she had been asked. Gabriel and Veronica asked, but they understood when Rihyarda refused. Georgine didn’t look understanding or even remotely lamenting. Her lips curled instead.

“As I thought. How could I take anyone who is not in service to me?” She wondered out loud, “Well… what would I do with such a person near me?” 

The warning was clear; if she followed the young lady as attendant, at best she would be distanced from any tending work and perhaps wouldn’t even touch a single teapot or chemise for the duration of her stay. At worst… Lady Georgine would leave Rihyarda to the mercy of her entourage. 

“Georgine, Rihyarda is a loyal vassal of the archducal family,” Aub intoned, warning her not to harm Rihyarda. 

Lady Georgine glanced at the Leisegang attendant standing behind her, and the middle aged woman nodded. “And Bernadetta is a loyal attendant in service to me for the sake of Ehrenfest… what merit does Rihyarda have to serve me in Bernadetta’s place during this crucial time?” 

Rihyarda was determined to serve Lady Georgine once more no matter how hurtful the poison of Grammatura she dripped upon her old ears, but this was something else. Lady Georgine didn’t insult her outright, rather, the lady just asked what use she had for Rihyarda who had left her when she now had people who would stand by her side and even fight Aub for her happiness? 

No matter her resolve, her loyalty could never be given. She could not serve Lady Georgine, nor make up for leaving simply because, compared to her current aides, Rihyarda was even less than a third rate attendant. 

Aub at last inhaled deeply and decided, “Very well, Rihyarda shall be transferred to Constanze’s entourage for this season…” 

Lady Georgine raised an eyebrow, “Is that so? Good for Constanze I suppose…” That was what she said but her eyes were full of pity, “If that is all father… I still need to go back to my work. I am a very busy woman.” 

“Georgine!” hissed Lady Veronica. “Do stay quiet in your fifth year… and perhaps there will be a lord who desires your thread.” 

Lady Georgine’s smile was smug, “I have given my all to prepare to be the best student of my grade this year. I have had a very productive year after all…” There was no doubt in her voice she would achieve that honor. “Watch me, father, mother… I will bring honor to Ehrenfest and our family like never before.” 

That was not a promise but a statement; she intended for her thorny vines to reach the sky and look down upon all of them. 

Rihyarda moved to Lady Constanze’s entourage at Aub’s order, but even the middle child of Aub wished to refuse her in fear it would break her neutrality in the rivalry between her siblings. Lady Constanze didn’t just agree, and Aub looked pained; neither Georgine nor Constanze made his life easy. 

“T-then… please approve my engagement to whomever I choose as soon as possible. Please do not be my Libeskuhilfe. I can arrange to move out of Ehrenfest as soon as Libeskuhilfe and Sterrat come for us.”  

Lady Veronica was incensed, “Fine- Aub, if your daughter wants to leave so much just let her be! Our priority should be ensuring no more trouble comes from Georgine!” 

This too was painful for their Aub. Georgine wanted to usurp him while Constanze was the same as many nobles in his duchy seeking Chaosfliehe, and she saw his wife- her own mother as the Chaoscipher to flee from. It was also a blatant statement she didn't want to stay in Geduldh to support Sylvester. Rihyarda though unlike Lady Georgine, she cared for Lord Sylvester. 

“I will…” Lord Adelbert seemed aged by a decade as he said this, as he realized the implication of Lady Constanze's words. “You may go… wherever you wish Constanze.” 

She nodded, "Everyone here will be my Geboltordnung for your promise." Then she left, a huge relief clearly shown on her face that her parents wouldn't meddle with her future. 

However, as soon as it was decided, Rihyarda heard that Lady Constanze sent this intel to Lady Georgine discreetly. Not discreet enough to escape her observant son, Justus, though. 

“I suppose Lady Constanze is trying to protect herself from Lady Georgine…” murmured Rihyarda softly. 

Justus scoffed, “Mother, you’re too sweet thinking Lady Constanze is a pacifist who just wants to leave our duchy. If you look closer, Lady Constanze’s opinion of her parents is almost as low as Lady Georgine’s.”

“You mean-” 

“Lady Constanze will not aid you in spying on Lady Georgine or curb her movement at the Royal Academy. While she doesn’t hate Lord Sylvester, deep down, as a fellow daughter not as favored as the son, the seemingly meek princess is quite resentful too.” 

Rihyarda’s eyes widened in shock. “So both of them…” 

“Neither Lady Georgine nor Lady Constanze receive as much love or attention from their parents as Lord Sylvester does, and all just because of his gender.” Justus was grimacing as he said this, “From what I investigated, Lord Sylvester likes her because she is meek, but I doubt there’s sincere affection towards him. Favoritism like that breeds resentment.” 

Her heart broke for the poor boy that had no ally in either of his sisters. “He- he is the heir of Ehrenfest…” 

“With that same logic, there’s nothing but his gender that has earned him that position as heir,” Justus pointed out. “Lady Georgine is a hard worker and also a talented archduke candidate who has been an honor student since her first year. She is charismatic and beautiful and has gathered her followers and support from all factions in Ehrenfest… her accomplishments are clear. In contrast, Lord Sylvester only has his age as an excuse as to why he hasn’t achieved anything substantial, and considering his conduct in class… it doesn’t seem like he will even get an excellent student award at the academy.” 

“Well…”

“And, according to what I have heard of the children’s winter playroom, he doesn’t mingle at all with children outside of Lady Veronica’s faction. He is even seen skipping classes he should have with them.” 

Rihyarda tried her best, but Lord Sylvester was just a playful little boy. His upbringing couldn’t be more different than Lady Georgine’s and Lady Constanze’s. 

As for her service in Lady Constanze’s entourage, it couldn’t really be called that. Many young nobles in her entourage avoided Rihyarda, and they were most excited about moving out of the duchy to follow Lady Constanze. 

Rihyarda felt more alone than ever.

Notes:

There you go!
Rihyarda is very hopeful for the sisters, but both ditched Sylvester.
Even in canon you can see Constanze doesn't really have genuine care for Sylvester, she used him whenever convenient.
Thanks Adelbert and Veronica, way to go!

Info : how come vero do not know about the adverse effect of excessive spice and oily food? She is a physician and poison expert right?

Fey: Ahrensbach spice is not a very popular product, at least they are not used for spiciness in other duchies. So the knowledge that excessive spicy food is bad for sickly people like Adelbert is limited within Ahrensbach. Even then, this is a specialized knowledge of doctors and chefs working for noble, nanny also know. Hence no wonder, veronica has no idea as for all her claim of lineage, she is not a native Ahrensbach noble.
As for Sylvester's case, it's hilariously simple. Kids in general can not handle spicy food, so they don't eat trendy spicy foods. So theres very few case for children even in Ahrensbach, but nanny in general know not to feed children too spicy foods.

Veronica though... she force taste of Ahrensbach to entire family, and sickly Sylvester who get healthier on everything else get ulcer. He is told, the trendy food is tasty. Vero didn't compromise on that with Sylvester, he eat the same food as everyone.

Veronica only learn the issue after her contact in Ahrensbach get a physician share the intel with her. So now, she is also medicating Adelbert and Sylvester for that. Rozemyne don't know what Adelbert and Sylvester have that worsen because of Ahrensbach's level of spiciness, but believe if they're prone to get abdominal pain from a bit of stress- she suspect their spicy diet had done a permanent damage, likely gastritis. Sylvester because he is too young, and Adelbert's frail constitution. "It could be permanent... and Veronica certainly have no idea what she has done."
Vero do not know this, but confident she can heal them.

Georgine laugh until her side hurts when Roz tell her, its not going anywhere.

Chapter 6: Color of the Wind

Summary:

Georgine did some decorating, singing songs, and gets busy this season-

Georgine- Departing to Academy

She drew attention to herself “like a moth to fire” as Rozemyne said when she appeared with her new royal academy dress. The uniqueness of the dress lies on the shoulder’s design where there was padding to make her look more imposing. She was not trying to aim to beckon spring, so why should she demure herself to appeal to any man? Instead of the customary embroidery from neck to chest, she had heraldic lion embroidered on her chest. In place of the usual ribbons, there were a couple of thin gold chains that housed her cloak’s brooch. 

The outer sleeve was very simple and novel in design. Flaring and reaching all the way to her knees with a slid on the elbow. The inside was an inner sleeve that fit snugly and extended to her wrists, white with gold edge that symbolize her position as High Bishop of Ehrenfest.

The bottom part of the dress was of simple, without any flare like the gown most lady wore and more like the bottom part of robe worn by lords. Dyed with gradient of ochre to black with embroidery of simple lines that according to Rozemyne symbolize flowing water.

To complete the set, Rozemyne had requested a special trick for her shoes: an inner sole that increased her height. Georgine was already taller than average for a woman but this made her reach the average height of lords her age. All in all it made her look less ladylike but imposing and dignified, according to Rozemyne this fashion was unisex- blurring the gap between genders.  

Veronica confronted her, fury in her eyes. “Georgine, what are you wearing? Such an outdated dyeing style is not suitable for an archduke candidate of Ehrenfest to wear in the eyes of other duchies.” 

Georgine was now taller than Veronica due to her special insole, tall enough to look down on Veronica. This comes from the woman who wore a veil to Royal Academy and told off to take it down in her youth. Or so Georgine heard from Freylia, who was from the same generation in the academy as her. 

Georgine looked at her mother with pity in her eyes. As a child she thought Veronica was a cunning and intelligent woman, but it seemed she overestimated the woman who gave birth to her. Or perhaps it was just her standard getting higher after interacting with Rozemyne closely? “This is Ehrenfest’s traditional dyed cloth… the pride that has been forgotten but now revived to be seen by all. If anything…” She placed a hand on her chest. “There’s nothing more suitable for someone of my status to proudly wear the creation of our people.” 

“As expected of Georgine-sama.” Said a Giebe of the neutral province, who was now leaning to her faction in support of Ehrenfest.  

Followed by Leiseigang. “We’re proud to have given you our treasured heritage, Lady Georgine.” 

Georgine glanced back at her people proudly, the students were all wearing similar alterations to their uniform- adding dyed cloth of Ehrenfest somewhere like on the sleeves, sash or inner skirt. It was easy to see the majority of the younger generation followed her example, proud of their heritage. 

She was especially thrilled to see Aub looked torn as Veronica glared at him to impeach her, but he could not. Denying Ehrenfest’s heritage in public was a social suicide for father whose foundation became shakier due to making it clear he didn’t favor Leisegang family, a bloodline that dominantly archnobles of Ehrenfest. 

As Aub he didn’t have  to pander to them, but it was something else to be a step from openly hostile to them for the sake of his wife. 

Georgine approached their Aub and said, “Aub… do not confuse your Geduldh, as she is donning Ochre cloak of Schutzaria.” 

“Georgine you-”

“Ehrenfest does not deserve for its culture and traditions to be erased…” Georgine stated firmly. “A duchy that ignores domestic treasures would be fated to be under the heels of their superior.” 

This too was something from Rozemyne’s wisdom: foreign goods were good and all but Ehrenfest had erred in pushing their own identity by adopting too much of Ahrensbach’s tradition. Georgine understood it was more advantageous in the long run for Ehrenfest to use what they had instead of importing too many goods from other duchies. It would also bring her more support from the conservatives. 

However her biggest advantage was decreasing Ahrensbach’s influence in Ehrenfest, and thus- Veronica’s. So she planted another seed of doubt in her father. For all his righteous desire to shelter his poor wife, he was still Aub of Ehrenfest. Deep down he was already developing guilt, letting his people tormented. She would continue attacking him from that angle and soon Ehrenfest would be saved. 

The transfer to the academy felt different this time, as she renewed her determination to bring Ehrenfest to a new height as the next Aub of Ehrenfest. So it was no wonder, Georgine couldn’t hide her displeasure when she saw almost every decoration in their interior was Ahrensbach themed, if not for the dominant earthy and noble color of Schutzaria they could mistake it for an inferior looking Ahrensbach dormitory. Georgine had been given tributes from her more conservative Ehrenfest people so she had decorated her room in the temple to be so Ehrenfest themed that the once comfortable dormitory looked like an eyesore to her. A few days, she tried to ignore it but the mere sight of anything Ahrensbach was grating on her nerves. 

“S-sister?” Constanze asked her timidly, “Is there something wrong?”

“The decorations are eyesores.” She said simply. 

“Lady Georgine, what are you saying?!” Rihyarda asked incredulously. 

Georgine glanced at Rihyarda, exasperated inside that Rihyarda was put to be Constanze’s head attendant just to keep an eye on Georgine. All due to her replacing that old Veronican with Bernadette of Groschel, a Leisegang archnoble attendant. They seemed under the impression Rihyarda could do something about Georgine because of their history together. 

During dinner Georgine pointedly ignored Veronicans looking at meals of her faction members with a longing gaze. Father had agreed to purchase the recipes but it seemed the dormitory’s chef was still subpar in preparing Rozemyne’s unique recipes.

The next day was the opening ceremony, Georgine led Ehrenfest out of the gate of Twentieth and waited for their turn to greet the royalties. She wondered if the Veronican ever saw what a large place their country was and how… tiny Ehrenfest was in comparison and yet they clung to Veronica, believing her to be their sky. 

Soon they were called, Georgine took a step forward with Constanze trailing right behind her. Georgine gave her all in her greeting to the royalties. Georgine poured all her elegance as she knelt and crossed her arms, the beautiful dyed cloth on the underside of her sleeves flared beautifully for them to see. 

The prince overseeing the academy was Trauerqual, the fifth and youngest prince Georgine recalled, had just married his first wife last year. Beside him was Princess Valemarine, a princess of collateral lineage and then the youngest princess, Satella. She was baptized by the first queen of royal lineage but it was an open secret that she was born from a Klassenberg mistress. 

Trauerqual gave a generic reply to her greeting and Georgine waited with bated breath. 

The youngest princess was the first to speak up. “What a beautiful cloth… this is the first time I saw this kind of fashion; beneath the somber color of the God of Darkness hides the bright and conspicuous beauty of the Goddess of light. I have never seen such a novel cloth. Is it a new fashion?”

The princess was the youngest and thus destined to be married off. Georgine could already see she was raised carefree and blessed by Eflownefleurne. 

Georgine smiled, “This is the traditional cloth of land of wind, Ehrenfest… it’s not embroidery, but cloth dyed using a special technique passed from generation to generation, making cloth a fine canvas of art.” 

“Oh my… how lovely!” 

“Indeed dear sister.” Princess Valemarine chimed in, “And Lady Georgine… your style of dressing is also very unique. Doesn’t she look like she is blessed by the valor of Leidenschaft’s kin and sternness of Schutzaria at the same time? How mysterious.” 

Princess Satella went on, “And what beautiful hair you have Lady Georgine… shining almost like the sky at twilight. What is the cause of its shine? Is it a secret?” 

Georgine smiled, “It’s no secret, Your Highness… it's a special concoction recently found by my people. We have yet to create a good enough concoction to present to those sitting at the highest skies, but we will do our utmost to fulfill it.” 

She already had some ideas through her own experimenting, and a trip to the collection site would be needed. 

“My… what a tease.” Princess Valemarine giggled.

Prince Trauerqual smiled, “their  interest has piqued I see. I believe their threads shall intersect with yours by Dregatnuhr’s grace, Lady Georgine.” 

And they were dismissed to make their greetings. Georgine was very pleased with the attention gathered by her glossy hair and unique fashion. For once, it was a boon to be so low ranked she can make a show out of herself to most duchies in the country just by walking towards them in gallant fashion. The Dunklefelger ladies were especially interested because her dress was easy to move in and looked heroic. Drewanchel was predictably curious about the concoction of glossy hair; yet, what intrigued Georgine the most at that table was the interested glint in the eyes of one male archduke candidate. He had pale blue eyes like clear sky, skin even fairer than Georgine's and hair the color of Dark God's cloak. Yet- his smile was gentle as he leaned forward from his seat. 

“This is the scent of meril fruit I believe… very subtle under the scent of herb and apfelsiege peel.” 

“Hadrian.” Chided another archduke candidate of Drewanchel, who Georgine recognized as younger brother of Drewanchel’s next Aub. 

The lord named Hadrian regained his composure, “My apologies, Lady Georgine. Perhaps a discussion under auspice of Mestionora could take place when Dregarnuhr let our threads to intersect.  

He was just one of many lords they had, and Georgine knew she was not dressed to beckon Blueanfah, but something had mysteriously caught the man’s fancy. 

Grausam caught her signal and knew that he should gather intel on Lord Hadrian as soon as possible.

They reached Frenbeltag, a neighbor of Ehrenfest and also led by Constanze’s prospective fiance. Georgine gave them cordial greetings as usual, and stomached her little sister’s lovesick greeting to her fiancé.

However as for once Georgine was paying attention to Constanze’s expression, as soon as they were out of Frenbelteg’s sight, Constanze’s expression change to mask of neutrality. That was interesting… it was no secret last winter, Constanze caught the attention of the Frenbeltag’s lord so there was no need to be all that composed. Constanze was not being shameful or anything. 

It seemed there was more to Constanze’s courtship than Georgine knew. 

Reestablishing Ehrenfest Identity 

Soon written exam days were upon them, and Georgine knew with Veronican’s staunchest supporter in younger students were mostly below average they would be stuck in classes for a while. Georgine kindly offered tutoring for everyone interested in an effort to improve her image, which was attended by her faction but none from Veronican for obvious reasons. She was satisfied to see that the grade averages rose with Rozemyne’s way of teaching, but not so much when she realized the wide gap with Veronican’s who were bringing everyone down. 

It never occurred to Georgine before. But her aides she gathered were all competents because she sorted the people given to her and cut off those without the sincerity to follow her. In her mind that was the basics of forming a usable entourage. Sylvester, on the other hand, just took whoever Veronica gave him: idiots who were mostly obedient (to Veronica), lacking even the cunning of Verbergen to save them from being a complete failure. So overall Ehrenfest completed their classes very slowly.

How did I not notice Veronica set Sylvester to be the next Aub of Ehrenfest but never for success? 

Soon it was obvious the dormitory was emptied of Veronicans on certain days. Georgine took her chance during those gaps to have her “forgotten belongings” from the temple to be delivered. It was just right. Autumn had just ended, so her decor themed after the season had been stored for next year. She also had more from tributes given by her faction sent over for room decoration. 

Rihyarda was away to accompany Constanze, therefore, only the lower ranked Veronicans stayed in the dormitory. The fools were powerless to stop her when she stripped the Ahrensbach themed decoration from their interiors and replaced it with more of Ehrenfest’s native style. 

The embroidered pillowcases were replaced with dyed ones that were painted with Ehrenfest’s native flowers and vines. Instead of dried spice arrangements, Georgine personally arranged flowers in various shades of yellow, red and white to match the season. She also displayed various herb candles made in Rozemyne’s workshop that, combined with dye, were transformed into works of art. 

As for the wall decor… Rozemyne’s silly idea of making wreaths out of dried herbs, fruits and berries was used. She had no idea why Rozemyne claimed it was ‘the season’ for this kind of decoration, but among her scholars they certainly didn’t lack herbs. It looked a bit rustic, but it was beautiful enough—“ Ehrenfest” enough—in her eyes. 

Needless to say Rihyarda was shocked to find the general area of the dormitory transformed into a completely different look. 

“Lady Georgine, why did you redecorate the dormitory as you please? What in the name of the Seven happened here?!”

Georgine didn’t hide her smirk. She shrugged casually, as if the redecorating was an inevitable thing. “I can’t help it. Even if we wish to promote Ehrenfest’s heritage, our dormitory did not reflect that. Now it does. Isn’t it only right to dress Geduldh in her own colors?” 

Her people chimed in on cue. That’s right. We are Ehrenfest nobles, are we not?”

“Why would we scented our dormitory with dried spice?”

“Indeed, isn’t it so… strange?” 

“Now I do not have to wonder if I stepped through an incorrectly numbered door.”

Rihyarda’s face turned red. It was obvious that Georgine was pushing her personal agenda by asserting dominance in the dormitory, but the noble cause for their duchy’s identity and promoting native patriotism could not be refuted. 

Georgine went in for the kill by asking, “What do you  think, dear sister? Don’t you think our dormitory has become… more suitable for the duchy of the wind, land of Schutzaria?” 

Constanze took one glance around the room and meekly nodded. Such a smart girl. As always.

An aide of Sylvester’s seemed displeased. “The former decorations were there to honor Ahrensbach’s asylum, Lady Georgine. Why would you go against the will of Lady Veronica and Ahrensbach?”

Georgine smiled, and gave a signal for a new knight of hers- a Leisegang lord. He was an imposing second son of Giebe Kimberga, and he clasped the scholar’s shoulder in a vice grip. “Well… why don’t you take a good look at the color of the cloak you wear on your shoulders that matches our current interior? Is it mauve or ochre? Perhaps you should redye it to mauve from now on.” 

The scholar became pale from fright, “I d-di-didn’t m-mean…” 

“Don’t be shy… we wouldn’t mind sending your cloak to the best dyeing workshop to get the right color. If anything it’s best to work in bulk… right Milady?”

Georgine smirked, “Indeed.” 

The threat was clear: if anyone protested, she would twist Grammatura and make them the pariah of the dormitory.  

Georgine was enjoying herself, drinking tea her attendant Idalia made for her. It was very delicious. Apparently in Kimberga they had a special pot to boil water to make delicious tea that was once imported from Boschgeitz. Georgine thought it was a shame such an antique wouldn’t be found anymore. She was contemplating how to reverse engineer the unique pot when Rihyarda came bursting into the room interrupting her thoughts. 

“Lady Georgine, what are you thinking?!” 

Oh, good ol’ Rihyarda~ her father’s most loyal pawn. Did the middle aged woman think that just because she had been Georgine’s nanny and was (formerly) her oldest attendant, she could just ask the champion of the opposing faction about her motives? Rihyarda paraded herself to others  as a neutral noble, but in reality she already took sides. Perhaps she even switched them over the years like a mednoble, except switching on Aub’s order and not solely based on the flow of power. 

It was a painful reminder: Rihyarda had always been a better mother figure than Veronica, yet she was still dutiful to the whims of the Aub first. 

In contrast, Rozemyne saved Georgine. She learned more about the honest affection Rozemyne offered freely as they got closer. Rozemyne truly understood how it felt to be discarded by their family, but the young girl still had room to love another, even someone like Georgine who was openly using her. The little girl was someone Georgine felt safe to entrust her crumbling heart to mend and make it whole again. In some ways it was a miracle to find someone like that in this cruel, brutal world.

The pain of Rihyarda’s betrayal no longer ripped her apart. It had become the dull pain of an old scar that would soon fade. 

Georgine asked back, “What would you do, Rihyarda?” Shaking her head, “Am I not the most senior Archduke candidate in the dormitory? Even if Sylvester is here, does he understand the meaning of changing the decoration or would he not care as usual?” It was painful to watch how all that pampering her parents did severely handicapped her younger brother. 

“What you are spreading through Grausam and those other scholars of yours…” 

Rozemyne called it “propaganda,” a political move where ideas, facts, or allegations spread deliberately to further one's cause. For example, the dyed cloth was the past she twisted to suit her agenda. In actuality it wasn’t that Gabriele purposefully erased the native’s culture in the matter of dyed cloth, it was simply a newer trend that made the older trend become forgotten. However it was much more beneficial for her to revive this old dyeing style as an effort to combat Ahrensbach’s influence. It could be misleading, but it was effective.

If she wanted to, she could be factual and slander her father’s weak rule and favoritism outright, but that wouldn’t bode well for the whole clan. Part of why Eisenreich was split apart was because the last Aub abdicated due to treason while admitting her clan could no longer rule the grand duchy. So with Rozemyne’s advice she chose to be misleading instead, positing that she was the “righteous” female archduke candidate nourishing her duchy even at the cost of her reputation by becoming High Bishop and—to the public— she had fallen in love with her duchy’s heritage in the process. The narrative gave her a very good image.

So yes, on the outside there was nothing so political about her becoming High Bishop or openly scorning Ahrensbach’s influence in their culture. It was all because she was such a patriot. 

“When Glucklitat’s trial to Aubhood is far higher for a lady like me, I can't be picky with my means, can I?” 

Rihyarda looked distressed, “Oh, Lady Georgine… you have not…” 

Last time she poured her grievance to Rihyarda, Georgine was truly in despair as she cursed her gender and fate. “Whether I am meant to be Aub or not, I challenge the assumptions about women who are only called Archduke candidates by name, when really their status is only for a political marriage to another.” 

Why should she be relegated to such a narrow role due to her gender? 

“Lady Georgine, everyone has their respective place in our society…” 

Georgine shook her head. “Oh my, did I make you uncomfortable?” She asked challengingly, “After all, Rihyarda, you have always been an obedient lady all your life, serving one master after another on command.” Rihyarda tensed, “I am well aware but why should I stop? This is not just for me but also for Ehrenfest… I am empowering all whose voices are drowned in this duchy, giving them the chance to stand up for themselves.”

“Lady Georgine-” Rihyarda began before struggling with what else she could say. Really, the longer your thread is in Ventuche’s cloth, the more blessed you should be by Anhaltung. “Your ambition would not come to pass with your father’s disapproval.” 

“I am very much approved by my people.” Georgine corrected. “Tell me, Rihyarda…these are the people my father is supposed to be leading, no? And yet…” She left the words hanging. 

Rihyarda’s complexion paled, realizing by now in the younger generation the one supporting Georgine trumped other factions. What would happen as the generation changed? 

“Perhaps he should start being an Aub who listens to his people and not just his Light Goddess.” 

Georgine knew she was endangering herself, but at the same time it was a noble obligation almost, she shall give him this chance to repent as Aub. He still had time to make amends to his people, and… if he ignored Anhaltung like he always had… Georgine smiled to herself, there was no regret and she was fully justified dragging her dear father kicking and screaming from his throne then throwing Veronica to be at her enemy’s mercy.

Father would only himself to blame for not listening to Anhaltung standing guard by his side. If he had, Aub Ehrenfest could still have a peaceful retirement with his beloved wife and away from political stage and old grudges. 

But alas, Veronica was Geduldh even at the peril of his duchy.  

“Lady Georgine…” Her attendant Idalia stepped forward, “What Rihyarda said…” 

Georgine smirked, “The reason I placed you and Grausam nearby, as both of you can read lips, is for you to witness the truth.” Or at least truth as she sold it to her people. “Rihyarda supposedly moves according to Aub’s will, but instead of encouraging my siblings to follow and support the movement to reestablish our identity and acknowledge the damage done by Gabriele and my mother…” She trailed off forlornly. “Rihyarda didn’t… All she thinks about is the political meaning behind my move against the opposing faction. She refuses to see the bigger picture.” 

Ehrenfest’s glorious ochre color inherited from Eisenreich and Schutzaria has been tainted by the Mauve of Ahrensbach. 

“That is why, in spite of the need of a husband consort as future female Aub, I will ensure he has my people’s approval.” Georgine stated firmly. “Domineering outsiders like Gabriele who don’t know her place are shameful. Just knowing her blood flows through my body disgusts me so…”

“Oh, Lady Georgine… how noble of you!” 

“You are indeed the master we have chosen to follow.” 

This was not a lie, Georgine was really disgusted by Gabriele who brought Ahrensbach blood to Ehrenfest. 

A female Archduke Candidate struck by spring because an Archduke Candidate of lower status treated her well when they met in the Interduchy Tournament. Veronica painted it as her grandfather being a liar who deceived Gabriele with his sweet words to solidify his position as next Aub. Georgine had always been skeptical of this story, and only after hearing Leiseigang’s side she believed she and Rozemyne had managed to deduct the most unbiased and logical recounting of that story. 

In the first place an Archduke candidate of her grandfather’s rank had to be nice because Gabriele- an idiot or not - was a female archduke of a grand duchy. Also, he was already the heir of Ehrenfest at the time with solid backing of Leisegang. There was no need for seducing Gabriele, and when his first wife of Leisegang was pregnant no less! Assuming her grandfather was not a complete idiot, he wouldn’t go looking for a true first wife with that timing! Only a buffoon found a new wife when his first wife was pregnant. 

Also looking at the custom of welcoming the first wife of the archduke candidate rank, that Leisegang princess already knew she wouldn’t keep her rank. The idea was for her children to intermarry with future first wife’s children. Which would be a beneficial arrangement for Ehrenfest as a whole and Ehrenfest clan would be fully integrated to the land and become true rulers of Ehrenfest with Leisegang’s cooperation. 

Unfortunately, Gabriele with her infatuation cornered Ehrenfest at that critical crossroad. She was not the dignified first lady Ehrenfest needed, but a wilful and foolish little girl who didn’t understand the weight of her match. Even Ahrensbach realized their error of pushing Gabriele to Ehrenfest.  

Ehrenfest was forced to demote their most qualified heir to an archnoble. Veronica would rather blame it on Leisegang, but the truth was Gabriele was just not fit to be first lady of Aub. Ahrensbach didn’t refuse this demotion of rank; it was the consensus of both Ehrenfest and Ahrensbach. 

Which then led to her assasination. As she said to her father, Gabriele—who came up with a brilliant idea to expand her faction even as Giebe’s first lady by threatening the authority of the archducal clan—didn’t die a natural death. Georgine also believed a mere Countess needed not to resort to such extreme methods to expand her influence. 

So why did she do that? 

This was where Leiseigang had most likely had the right and unbiased recounting of the event in spite of their enmity against the woman. Gabriele looked forward to being Aub's mother, itching to abandon her husband who treated her with respect but not the love she craved. Gabriele deluded herself into thinking it was Leisegang's influence that caused her demotion solely because of her jealousy of the Leisegang wife her husband truly loved. In that petty envy and hunger for superiority, Gabriele strifed for her own political power through name dedication.

It was a gamble on her part that ended up poorly on her side, and Georgine believed it caused the Archducal clan to run out of Duldetzen’s blessing for her. The rest was history. Unfortunately, due to the contract, her mother still had to be the first lady of Ehrenfest. The Archducal clan who had avoided the blame for Gabriele’s death let Veronica have her imaginations based on the delusions Gabriele imparted on her, and didn’t reveal anything to father and uncle. 

To be fair, it was a magnificent ploy from her great grandfather’s generation, but surely not even they could imagine Veronica’s grudge ran so deep she was halfway to destroying this duchy. Rozemyne called it “karma,” the law of cause and effect. How fitting that Gebordnung kept score as Ventuhite weaved the threads of each generation.

“And that’s why I will become Aub to atone for the mistakes of my family and save Ehrenfest.” 

Now…the groundwork has been laid. She had made a show of the pride of their duchy so the royal family would notice. Georgine needed to establish her policy as future Aub firmly in the dormitory and then…wash away the dirt she smeared upon her to escape Liebeskuhilfe with the pure flow of Flutrane, repainting it anew through the grace of Kunstzeal. 

The winter had only begun, and Georgine felt she had a long way to go.

First of all… 

“I can’t believe the materials for the written test of the Knight Course is quite simple, even though I am just taking the foundational elective.” It was a hassle, but she wanted to take art of war, which was an advanced theoretical course in off season from the knight course.

It would take a long while until she could join the practical elective. Or so she thought until Ritthauz commented during dinner. 

“Lady Georgine, Professor Ingram asked me when would you be joining practical elective of knight course. I think Master Ansehelm bragged about you…” 

She had almost forgotten there was some connection made with Dunklefelger by the very few exceptional knight they produced over the years, in previous generation was Uncle Bonifatius but before him was Ansehelm. She knew he bragged about her everywhere, but the Ordoschnell had reached Dunklefelger? 

“What should I tell him, Milady?” 

“...I will join the class during the off season.” It was a shame but this year, she will have her hands full with lady trends.”   

Song of Her Land 

Georgine had never concerned herself much with the grace of Kunstzeal, nor any of the softer skills, really. Her true loves were statecraft and politics. Her embroidery was on par with Constanze only due to the necessity of adding protection to herself. As for music…it was admittedly one of the few subjects Sylvester was more talented in than her. And even that was by a margin; she could easily overtake him if she had ever felt it was worth the effort.

However, now things were different. Georgine had Mestionora by her side, and the goddess of wisdom gifted her a way to appeal to Kunstzeal’s grace in a unique way. So Georgine strode elegantly to the music room where students of all grades gathered to practice. The first class always had students play the song they favored so the teacher could assess if their skill level had improved. 

Georgine had specifically prepared for this class with Rozemyne. The girl was quite gifted, creating fantastical compositions she claimed was from a world of dreams. If it were anyone else, Georgine would write her words off as nonsense or the strange drivel of a child. But when it came to Rozemyne, who cast curses and made one miracle happen after the next, it was possible that Schlautrum truly did invite her to a world in her dreams.

Georgine could hear murmurs from various duchies, those who have heard of her ‘special’ position as High Bishop of Ehrenfest. There was disgust, apprehension, curiosity and mockery around her. Georgine paid them no mind. She would repaint all of their perception about her with this song. 

When summoned by the teacher, Georgine played the traditional Ehrenfest song to the best of her ability. She did however try to improvise a bit, showing her play style had changed to beckon their curiosity. 

“I have heard that Lady Georgine played a very special song among those closest to you, a new melody dedicated to Schutzaria and her exalted twelves… as well as Geduldh.” The teacher began with a smile, “Would Kunstzeal and Dregarnuhr give us the grace today to listen to it, Lady Georgine?” 

Georgine let a regal smile bloom on her face. “It is but a humble dedication for the Gods and my people. It would be an honor to play the song for all to hear.” She also said she needed her entourage’s assistance to play the flute part, to which the professors gladly allowed.

“Oh my! How excellent Lady Georgine.” 

One of her new attendants was close to music teachers and had leaked about the song to give her the chance to perform. Georgine plucked the strings, and her mind wandered to her beloved homeland as she began to sing the song she arranged together with Rozemyne, the composer. 

The Land of Wind i s our beloved Geduldh.
She is not a dead thing you can claim! 

Georgine raised her voice, thinking of all the mana she poured to her land as archduke candidate and High Bishop to nourish Geduldh. She was alive and not a thing the likes of Veronica could just own and torment for her gain. 

As I know every people and tree and creature
Has a life, has a spirit, has a name

She ran her finger across her harspiel boldly before going for the next tune. 

O’Noble blessed by Schutzaria
Open your mind for Mestionora, donning blue and white…
As Ordoschnell rides the wind, over the sky!
Grammalatur will teach you the words you never knew, you never knew

All the things she learned as High Bishop were all new and enlightening, she would do so over and over again everything she had missed as a mere noble lady. 

Have you seen ruelle ripened in Dorvan to Schutzaria’s purple moon?
Listen to the haunting howl of Effon trees.  
Do you know the songs echoing in northern Haldenzel’s mountain?
O’ Schutzaria, let me paint your land…
with your noble color, all color of the wind… 

Come run the trails of spring’s footstep in the forest.
Come taste the sun-sweet berries of Forsente
Let Jugeriese lead you to the natural blessings all around you
And for once, never wonder what they're worth

Flutrane’s clear tide, let it flows through my limbs!
Leidenshaft’s glorious ray, let my people bask on you.
And we are all connected to each other,
In a circle of Schutzaria, in a loop that never ends

Have you seen the glimmer of colorful sky by Kimberga’s gate?
Would you ask the children of all riches in Leisegang’s forest?
Do you know the songs sang in Fortendorf for Flutrane spring?
O’ Schutzaria, let me paint your land…
with your noble color, all color of the wind… 

Georgine wanted to see more of her land, everything her Geduldh hide in her bossom. 

How beautiful is the land Kunstzeal painted in all noble colors?
If stop now, then you'll never know
And you'll never see the splendor of the wheat under Schutzaria’s purple moon.
As we are all people of Ehrenfest… 

We need to sing with all the voices from north to South.
Need to paint with all the colors of the wind
You can love Geduldh and still
All you'll own is her until
You can paint with all the colors of the wind~ 

There was silence in the classroom as all eyes were on her, as she caught her breath from singing with so much passion. Georgine basked in the attention and waited for the teacher’s verdict. Schtappes were raised in ovation. “How wonderful Lady Georgine. It seems you are enlightened by Kuntzeal and Mestionora!” 

Georgine inwardly sighed in relief, “I am inspired in my spring and fall travels. Seeing all the colors of my land, there’s so much one can find and learn.”  

“Indeed… one can imagine the spread of Ehrenfest, your Geduldh…” The professor hummed softly, “I am especially fascinated by that strange musical instrument your attendant is holding.

What Idalia was holding was caled maracas by Rozemyne, although the people of Ilgner called it Calabash. It was made from inedible fruit that when dried, the seed inside would let out pleasant bell like sound. It was played by the children during harvest festival and Georgine was given some to bring back as toys for Rozemyne. 

Georgine left the stage after leaving a pair of Calabash as novelty gift for the teachers and she also had the promise to be invited to the music tea party as planned. 

Wonderful!  

“Lady Georgine of Ehrenfest?” Georgine turned around and saw Lord Hadrian of Drewanchel that caught her attention in the opening ceremony. He was not an unfamiliar face as he was in the same year as her, unlike her Sauzengas fiance who had graduated. He had ebony hair and eyes as blue as Leidenshaft’s cloak, the kind of man with a gentle smile and meek personality that usually would not catch her eye. 

Grausam had found more on him after the social gathering: Hadrian of Drewanchel and he was the talented second son of a prominent Giebe in Drewanchel. He was adopted due to his flair in potion making and cosmetics. Originally had no wish to be adopted, he would have refused if not for the law of Drewanchel to adopt all exceptional talents to learn foundational magic. Hadrian had a tentative fiancee, a female heir to a prominent archnoble house in Drewanchel’s capital. There seemed to be issues and it was on the verge of cancellation due to Hadrian’s problem. 

An unknown problem.

“I couldn’t help but notice the beautiful sheen of your hair… and also the glow of your face.” Anyone else would have assumed Hadrian was flirting, but Georgine knew what kind of gaze men had when interested in pursuing Bluanfah or Brenwarme with her. Hadrian, however, was admiring her beauty with the gaze of artcoinoseur being enthralled by a masterpiece. It gave the impression of a Klassenberg lord, not a Drewanchel one. “What could it be? Effloreflume’s gift that I can not derive. What a mystery.” 

And now he asked her the beauty secret like a lady would. Georgine had heard cosmetics were his specialty, but this was quite… he had that mad researcher’s glint she often saw in assistant professor Hirschur’s eyes.  

Georgine answered politely, her eyes observing him with caution. “I think the ladies would be angered if I shared this grace with Lord Hadrian before them…” 

She had made countless bets that rewarded her well, so why not once again? 

“However Verbergen’s grace will serve us well, don’t you think?” 

“Oh, how gracious of you, Lady Georgine.” 

“Milord…” his scholar beside him chided him gently. “A moment if you don’t mind, Lady Georgine.” 

Georgine nodded and the pair withdrew, Lord Hadrian looked reluctant to leave but followed his scholar. It seemed he was being censured for his forward behavior. Nothing was out of place between a master and his aide, but weren’t they a bit too close? Then Georgine saw it, just a short moment but Lord Hadrian’s hand gently brushed his lead scholar apprentice. 

“Oh…” Ritthaus, who stood at a similar angle to her, cupped his chin. “So that’s how it is.”

As soon as they had privacy in her personal tea room, Georgine asked him what he meant. Apparently Ritthaus figured out what Hadrian’s problem was that lead to his engagement getting canceled. Her knight became very stiff when questioned, “I am not sure I am the right person to say..." 

Ritthaus looked uncomfortable, understandably so because the most suitable lord offered to be both aide and the second husband to support her as Aub was his older brother. However, for a lord to be second husband meant he would be Georgine’s minister and married to archducal house as a lower ranked consort. It was rare to find such a man as customarily they would be the one with multiple wifes and not one of the husbands to one lady. The Leisegang was particularly meticulous in choosing the 'right' lord for her. The man had yet been brought to be part of her entourage as to not alarm her parents, but they had met a couple of times under Verbergen's shroud. Ritthaus was apparently made the heir of his house in place of this brother due to the arrangement. He knew there would be a first husband above his brother, but it didn't mean there would be no discomfort to talk about the matter. 

"Can I… tell Grausam? I am not as blessed by Grammalatur as he is so…” Ritthaus stammered. "Lord Hadrian's problem is... a bit..." 

Oh, it seemed Georgine misjudged Ritthaus. The boy was not hesitant in consideration of his brother, the problem was Hadrian himself. “Whether the Goddess of words abandons you or not, I will be the judge of that… go on. I would prefer Ordoschnell to me directly rather than to hear it from another playing an ordonannz.” They needed to establish a rapport at some point, after all.

It was amusing and adorable to see a broad shouldered knight two years her junior stammering. He explained, “at times in the Knight Order, there were lords who had… well…held r-raffles for other lords.” 

It was as if thunder of Verdanner struck the room, the ladies within earshot were all blushing furiously. Georgine was no exception, her cheekbones flushed.

And Isabella, one of her attendants, looked ready to pass out. 

“You are saying Lord Hadrian and his lead scholar…”

“Altaire… that’s his name…” 

“Oh my!” 

“Forbidden raffel…” 

"...Ritthaus, are you speaking from personal experience?" Someone particularly bold asked. 

The boy shook his head frantically, "Not me! I saw someone else!" 

Georgine ignored the hushed excitement of her ladies and asked instead, “And what of the marriage prospects of these…unique lords?” 

Grausam answered, although he looked uncomfortable with the topic. “Of course… it’s accepted as the passing heat of their summer that would dissipate upon autumn.” Georgine gave him a look. “...As long as they fulfill their obligations, everything else is shrouded by Verbergen, Milady.” 

"I see." So such a taste existed! Georgine didn't care very much as long as both men consented, her uncle was owner of a brothel after all. His flourishing business was a testement there was a high demand. 

“Of course… most women do not want to be Verbergen’s shroud for such affair-” Added Sidonius. 

Georgine’s smile widened, “How wonderful…” 

“Milady! Please think twice before playing with fire!”

“I already did, a dozen times over.” Georgine began to laugh. “Oh dear… truly I have been blessed by many Gods this year. Praise be the Gods!” 

Notes:

What have I done.... XDDD so yeah- in one chapter I reveal Georgine's husband candidates!
First is Hadrian, he is based from MC's brother from First, Let Hide My Brother
When I create this character, I basically want a man who looks like Mamoru from Sailor Moon but less tough... and a bit of a damsel haha.
Someone gotta be the kind Mom- I mean Dad to Rozemyne later XD

As for second husband candidate? Nah... he won't appear for a while.
Originally, I mean to have Rithauss himself to be the second husband... and younger than Georgine but then realize that's not very practical. So I switch it to his brother instead.

Anyway, trust me when I said... Geo need first husband and have it all settled with second husband to marry super late.

And yes- Valemarine is studying. I don't know what kind of identity she use when attending but she is there. Latest info says she is Seradina's half sister from Werkenstock lineage. Gervasio is fathered by 'current Zent' and Seradina by collateral royal family.
Satella is Seradina's daughter from different father to Ferdinand apparently... she is unnamed in canon as of now, but she is Ferdinand's older half sister and the 'art' princess. Who is 'mistaken' to be daughter of Klassenberg mistress of Zent.

I thought the first queen is from Klassen, dear me... so yeah-
The new arrangement is more interesting so let's go with that.

Chapter 7: Courtship for Their Geduldh

Summary:

Georgine court her future first husband with unexpectedly smooth result.
The music tea party is Glucklitate Trial
The merchants are messenger from Chaosliefe for the old scar left behind by her grandmother.

Notes:

Things are going great for Georgine for most part~ but not without challenge!

Ventuchte’s Musical 

She had a long discussion in autumn with her entourage, the merchants, and also her Mestionora on how to distribute the trends to the grand duchies and royalty. Trends traveled from the top after all, and it was the height of insolence otherwise. Georgine had allies from grand duchies and sovereignty, but inviting them was tricky.  

Also with her reputation as High Bishop, they wouldn’t jump to inviting her to tea parties with genial intentions. She already had a headache looking at tea party invitations from upper middle duchy like Immeldink, Zauzengas (former fiancé’s land no less!) and Hauchletzte. She could already tell they invited her either to probe her temple livelihood to gossip or outright mocking her. 

This was what happened when you were from backwater duchy and ‘dared’ to be an honor student over the middle duchies above your rank. Georgine’s class happened to have more archduke candidates than usual, so competition for achievement was fiercer. It was with pride Georgine didn’t cower and strove to make a name for herself, even if she had to slight some narrow minded archduke candidates. 

So Georgine had no problem with tossing these invitations aside personally, but as a trend setter this season and representative of her duchy she couldn’t refuse with reason less than her thread was withheld by Geboltnung: nobles of more superior rank than the gossip mongers demanding her presence in theirs first. 

Fortunately for her, that issue was taken care of instantly by the music tea party temporarily. This was her chance to promote the trends hard and get the attendees to wear them.The problem however was the ‘quality’ of their product, which could be ‘more’ before presented to grand duchies and royalty but hasn’t reached that level yet. 

Thankfully they had talked about it. 

“Having the beauty sets as ‘gifts’ to curry favor means it doesn’t have to be the highest quality, as it’s ‘gifts’ there should be no problem giving them products in the level of quality milady use?” Bernadetta pointed out. “As a female archduke candidate of Ehrenfest, whatever milady wears is considered the ‘best’ our duchy can offer.” 

This solved their issue with quality for beauty products. 

There was no such issue with cloth because… 

“Penelope has made overly high quality dyed cloth her whole life… it’s not an exaggeration to say, they didn’t match the rank of our duchy.” Lehrgen, Georgine’s new lead scholar reported. They had received the evaluation made by Dio and his friends from cloth related business, and it was obvious her entourage was having issues. 

Penelope was the new ‘name’ Georgine bestowed to the old commoner dyer to honor the talented Ventuchte’s disciple, the name came from Rozemyne’s dream story of a loyal woman who protects her family’s position and honor with cunning and wisdom. Penelope regained her sanity and vigor after Georgine’s blessing, the dyeing workshop she led was also named after the new given name. It was a surprise to know the three fabrics she gifted were just a small part of collections she and her family made over the years. 

“It's good news that old families of Ehrenfest don't have to part with our heirlooms but…” Bernadetta trailed off. 

Lehrgen gestured towards the cloth that had been hung over the frame for their inspection, “These are fit for royalty… if not presented they will be nothing but tapestry in hidden rooms.” 

Dio shook his head, “I understand but at the same time our duchy can part with so many valuable fabrics worth gold coins!” He pointed out. “Also, it would take a while for Madam Penelope to teach a new generation of dyers to achieve the same quality as hers.” 

Gustav cleared his throat, “Yes, Greifechan will not approve even if we’re pandering to Geboltnung.” 

Georgine agreed with them. “Plying our superiors with too many gifts is improper; we would look too desperate, and it sets a discordant tune for our future relationship.” It was the last thing Georgine would want for her duchy and people, being exploited because they present themselves wrongly. 

So presenting the ‘whole’ fabric was out of the question. Even gifting just one bolt would look bad because of how luxurious it was. 

“Perhaps we can give it away as a handkerchief?” Freylia suggested. 

Her more fashion conscious retainers and Dio looked at her in disbelief, she was a genuine female knight who returned after her child rearing age and preferred a modest look. So understandably, she was not very good at this. 

Bernadetta lifted a bolt of fabric with a gorgeous spread of various spring flowers that were half dyed, half embroidered over vibrant green. “Have you ever seen cloth of this quality cut to a handkerchief, tucked out of sight and only taken out to wipe your mouth?” 

“That’s…” The fuschia-haired female knight trailed off. “Outrageous indeed.” 

She sighed, “As outrageous as that sounds, Freylia is not wrong that giving small piece would be more appropriate. Just like samples.” Rozemyne had their beauty products shared for free in small bottles for trial and it was a success. The same couldn’t be said for non-consumable items like fabric however. 

Many ideas were thrown around, hair ribbons, hair bands, shawls and other accessories. However in the end, Georgine managed to find the best solution from Rozemyne and Christine. Both of them shared the lack of enthusiasm for embroidery but their education demanded them to produce tangible results. 

Both girls were unhappy embroidery took their precious hobby time, and had made small pieces. Their teacher had forbidden them from making another handkerchief in hopes they would move on to a bigger piece. So they tried to be cunning, and their embroidery instructor was nearly in tears because the curriculum didn’t progress as she planned, and anxious if the girls would even embroider their own cloak properly. 

Poor Elfaria 

She had the fabric processed further as a sample in desired form, and ensured she had to be invited to the music tea party of the year. Otherwise, they couldn’t let their trend reach the upper strata of noble society with class. So it was a great relief she was invited as planned. It was a great honor she didn’t care about before, but now it was the most perfect stage to show Ehrenfest’s treasures. 

When Georgine arrived, she silently gave thanks to the Gods once again as various colors of cloaks were in the room: Princess Satella attended the tea party as an honored royal member; two archduke candidates of Klassenberg, including the heir who was in the same grade as her; one archduke candidate of Werkestock; and Georgine willed herself not to react at the presence of Heinelle, the oldest daughter of Aub Ahrensbach and her almost step-daughter. The rest were mostly archnobles from Sovereignty. 

Georgine exchanged pleasantries and greetings politely, then waited patiently for her turn. It was truly a magnificent show for Kunstzeal’s devotees, a unique event to experience at least once. Princess Satella and her relatives from Klassenberg were abundantly blessed by Kunstzeal; one could really see the vast gap of music education between Ehrenfest and Klassenberg. 

Georgine once again acknowledged the need for a specialty for her duchy. To stand out, Ehrenfest needed something special. Was it that [paper] and [printing] Rozemyne wanted so much—no. That could wait. Her faction’s specialty was beauty products and tasty food, so they could start from there. 

Georgine introduced her sweets, “Cream sandwich, it’s a type of sweet bread that has been popular in Ehrenfest lately.” Idalia took out the bread from their cooling box, and it earned a confused look due to the all white bread that didn’t look that appetizing. 

Idalia had the chilled sandwich cut expertly to mouth sized bites and turn it over so the cut part was exposed, revealing colorful fruits arranged resembling flowers. 

“Oh!” Princess Satella exclaimed, “How adorable and colorful…it’s like beauty of Geduldh hidden in winter season!” 

Georgine took the first bite for poison tasting, “Enjoy, fruit cream sandwich is for those who love a sweeter taste. We also have the more savory cumber sandwich and egg sandwich.” Ehrenfest’s chef could not compare to artistic skill of the greater duchy’s chef, so with Rozemyne’s advice Georgine displayed novelty and color instead

She had to applaud their composure as they partook the offered sandwich, Princess Satella’s eyes widened in surprise but quickly regain her composure. The music teachers did the same but professor Pauline from Frenbeltag was silent for a long while before she finished her mouthful. 

“This is really good… especially the texture of the bread.” 

“It’s cold!” 

“It’s harmony created by Cuococalura and Kunstzeal…” 

Heinelle was surprised upon tasting cumber sandwich and egg one, “Oh, is this one spiced? The taste is very light…” 

 “Egg sandwiches have a bit of hot spice to cut the creaminess of egg.” Georgine acknowledged, “Cumber sandwich is flavored with herbs and cheese.” 

Princess Satella took a sip of her tea and smiled, “I love how the sandwich is cold, so I can really taste the warmth of tea.” 

Georgine chuckled softly, “I heard Professors serve the best high quality tea so I served cold sandwiches to elevate the experience. There are hot versions that make this white bread become crispy and more filling.” 

This was of course an invitation to her own tea party to taste the different variation of sandwiches, such a versatile dish indeed. 

“We would love for the opportunity to enjoy different offerings to Cuococalura.” 

All attendees except Heinelle voiced their agreement, which was appropriate. There was no reason for Heinelle to be anything but neutral; Georgine had just broken the tentative engagement to Aub Ahrensbach after all. 

“Oh dear, we almost forgot due to these delectable treats…. “ 

“Lady Georgine… I look forward to your offering to Kunstzeal today.” Said a music teacher, “I saw your entourage bringing such a huge thing in preparation room, I wonder what could it be?” 

Georgine smiled, “It would be… repetitious if I merely sing ‘ Schutzaria Colored Land’ again… so I staged a little show to enjoy.” She never imagined her long argument with Rozemyne about ‘color of the wind’ having ridiculous lyrics about zanze and rodents led to Rozemyne telling her how to make it literal. 

She had her attendant bring in the tools. The first was a bathtub that was promptly filled with water by Idalia. It was hidden behind a screen. This was one of few Ahrensbach decorations she had not discarded; it was unique, as the cloth was thin so the silhouette of people behind it could be seen. Her female knights moved behind the screen, and set a magical lighting tool so their silhouette could be seen clearly. 

Her attendants began to pour the dye to the water filled tub. Georgine was relieved to see the magical tool that blocked scent Grausam made worked, within the barrier her aides all wore cloth over their nose and lips as they worked. 

Her musician played the flutes, the beginning of the tunes started. 

The Land of Wind i s our beloved Geduldh.
She is not a dead thing you can claim! As I know every people and tree and creature
Has a life, has a spirit, has a name

As Georgine ran her fingers through her fingers through the strings, her knights brandished their tool of the day and started dancing. Streams of undyed cloth twirled at the tip of their baton as they spun in unison, earning gasp from the audience. 

The verse of purple Schutzaria’s moon was sang, and a pair made their exit to the screen, dipping their stream to the bathtub, and came out with a string of cloth dyed in purple gradient to yellow. They casted washchen onto the streamer as they twirl, revealing pink flowers stamped all over the cloth. 

As the song progressed, more and more streamers revealed the hidden colors: red, deep blue, fuschia dotting pale yellow cloth to represent sun sweet berries of Forsente. Gradient green from dark to light with tide like lines. Blue of Leidenschaft with flame-like tip to represent his passion.

And we are all connected to each other,
In a circle of Schutzaria, in a loop that never ends

The dancer formed a circle as they let the fabric swayed by the wind of their movement. 

O’ Schutzaria, let me paint your land…
with your noble color, all colors of the wind… 

They returned to the screen for the last touch. Dipping the streamer once again to the dye.
You can paint with all the colors of the wind~ 

They came out and this time the cloth had shed the last of the wax, revealing the yellow-gold lining of the pattern, and her knights gave the last full circle twirl for their baton. 

Schtappes were already raised by everyone attending the tea party and Georgine’s knight casted another cleaning spell just in case to erase any lingering scent. 

As Georgine accepted various compliments and questions about the dyed cloth, the equipment was taken out of sight quickly by her attendants and knights. 

The music and art teacher were eyeing the baton with streamers with admiration. “Oh dear, Ehrenfest produced fascinating trinkets one after another!”

Princess Satella’s inquiry pierced through the bustling chatter. “Georgine, the streamers are so beautiful… I wonder, what’s the name of this fabric?” 

Georgine had suspected it before, but Princess Satella seemed to be the willful and spoiled type. “It would be an honor… This dyeing style is a revival project of our traditional styled fabric, we have decided to call it Yuuzen.” 

She gasped, “Oh my! I wonder when this wonderful fabric would be available to be made into a dress?” 

She had overdid it, but alas what was done was done. Ventuche was not going to unweave her fabric for Georgine. “Princess Satella, my deepest apologies. I can’t decide yet as it has to wait for spring…” Depending on their Aub, but she knew her father wouldn’t resist when a royal was involved. “However, if you don’t mind I wish to present some gifts for everyone that would be allowed within my capacity.” 

Georgine had her attendant bring out the gifts, first was a box with her salon’s emblem  carved into it. Within was filled with a complete set of samples of her beauty products only available for VIP of her salon. Rinsham of various scents, schentis water, fragrant soap with scrub, face cleanser, lip balms and face masks. The difference of the set was just in the number of varieties of each product with the princess receiving all variants available. 

The gifts of course were opened before her eyes, and there was a mix of surprise and confusion and the sheer variety. “We also provided bamboo scrolls on how each product is used, but we also do not mind sending my attendants to guide you through the procedure.” 

“Oh dear, since when did Ehrenfest keep so many kinds of beauty products?” 

Prince Satella couldn’t hold back from sighing in pleasure as she took in the scent of Schentis water. “Such a strong scent of Schentis and herb, how delightful.” 

“We certainly would love to have your attendant teach mine, Lady Georgine.” 

Georgine inwardly smirked, this way… her attendants would get access to grand duchies and royal attendant’s social circle. 

The second part of the gift was meant to placate their enthusiasm for Yuuzen dyed fabric, and another box was presented. As they opened, they revealed a beautiful fan made of silk in circular shape with a handle of high quality wood. Rozemyne called them moon shaped fans, and it was meant to ward evil like Chaosliefe so she had one side embroidered with Schutzaria’s circle and the other dyed in yuuzen style. The fan also had streamers flowing from the left and right border, so when a lady move when carrying it would look very elegant. 

“Oh my my!” 

“Such a beautiful thing, what is it for?” 

“A fan…” 

Georgine explained it was a magical tool that has the function to repel those with hostile intention like Schutzaria’s shield. It’s not only beautiful but also functional. Of course, only Princess Satella’s fan had this function, while the rest just had beautiful fans. 

“Your sincerity touch my heart, Lady Georgine~” She smiled blissfully. “I am sure my family would love to have a taste too~ I couldn’t wait for Flutrane’s tide to come and reveal not just Geduldh but also Ventuchte’s splendor.” 

The princess didn’t give up, she wanted the fabric for spring regardless. Now, whatever Aub Ehrenfest and Veronica thought of her trends, spring would arrive with a tide that washed away everything including their stubbornness.  

Georgine- Scars of the Past

When she decided to give her siblings presents, it was not out of generosity. It was just an avid curiosity in what they would do with their respective trendy gifts. Constanze’s gift at first glance was just simple dyed lace, but upon closer inspection there was a new lace pattern that incorporated polished beads. A new fashion trend, so to speak. Subtle, but it had potential depending on the wielder.

The same style was incorporated to her inner sleeve so it wasn’t so obvious. 

Hence… both her siblings were given a chance to spread and claim trends. Predictably, the good and cautious Constanze wore the gift occasionally, most often within the confines of their dormitory. Georgine knew Constanze loved that lace headband, but her little sister refrained from showing it off, much less claim ownership of it. This was a silent show of her neutrality in the rivalry between Georgine and Sylvester. 

Their younger brother, however, affirmed that he was a sweet and naive child without malice and awareness in his being in spite of being born from the same Geduldh’s cradle. As Georgine told him to spread the fun game he was excited to do so happily. Oblivious he would soon stumble because he did not control his aides. It was foolishness to the highest order when they planned to claim ownership of the card game on Sylvester’s—or rather, Veronica’s—behalf. 

In the children's room, his aides already made the false claim of Sylvester being the creator of the game and next year their heir would make a wonderful debut as a first year with a trend never seen before. This was the latest intel she received from her aides, and she had told them to not do anything about it. 

Even if the present she gave him didn’t lead to Glucklitat’s trial, Sylvester’s entourage would cause him such problems sooner or later. It was as obvious as what Ewigeliebe wants.

“I also wish Sylvester will gain more awareness as an archduke candidate, at least enough sense to avoid being swung around by mother and her subordinates in his entourage.” 

But alas… hope springs eternal for that child, she had years catching and lecturing him for his hopelessness as the next Aub. Georgine had no obligation to be his Echwarlehren or Anhaltung. 

She had to pave her own path to her throne, so first a spouse was needed. Georgine had set her eyes on Lord Hadrian of Drewanchel. Surprisingly, they had progress in a way Georgine didn’t expect. Since Hadrian was longing for a fellow lord, she expected him to be polite but not receptive to her approach if she didn’t convey her willingness to be his Verbergen’s shroud. 

He seemed to be in a relationship with his lead scholar, but after their interactions in several classes Georgine noticed he held at least a bit of favor for her. It was good and everything, but it threw her off.  

First was the surprising event in her knight elective class, which Hadrian also took. Considering her late admission, it was no wonder she was looked down upon by knights from higher ranked duchies. The professors however had heard Ansehelm’s boasting and were eager to see her prodigious talent. 

Georgine proved just that, fighting on equal ground with a professor in a sword fight and received praise when they tied in the end. This gathered her the admiration of Dunklefelger and Losrengel, but unfortunately ire of the less talented knights of higher ranked duchies. 

Hadrian made it known they were familiar with each other by asking tips, even though he could do so from his knight apprentice. Hadrian reasoned, rookies like them would understand easier by learning from each other. Hadrian was incredibly weak though, and he had no talent in martial arts at all. It was quite tragic to see. 

He also attended mixed gender tea parties she chose to accept, and had chosen to defend her many times when her choice of temple life was brought up. He was especially interested in the idea of traveling freely in one’s duchy, and pointed out how envious was that because everybody else could only travel in the capital and their home province. Also the advantage of knowing your own duchy beyond reports from your scholars and informants was very valuable according to Hadrian. 

Georgine supported this claim by mentioning the recent incident that could have ended in the eruption of a temperamental volcano that would devastate not one but four provinces. 

Slowly but surely, the merit of being High Bishop was spread over the ‘shame’ of living in the temple with Hadrian’s support. If Georgine didn’t know he was educated to be scholar and minister, she would suspect he was groomed to be son in law. He was far too competent to be a mere husband though, even by Drewanchel’s standard. 

Their relationship also progressed, enough so Hadrian could invite Georgine to the famous eastern arbor. Georgine decided to dress up but not in lady like style, if anything she amped up the ‘heroic’ side of her fashion. Her hair was put up in a high ponytail with a simple pin, her brows were painted in sword arch shape, forgoing lipstick for lip balm, and wearing a form fitting riding dress. 

Lord Hadrian looked surprised when she arrived, before bloomed a smile of a lovesick lord. Georgine supposed being not so feminine appealed to his taste. Lord Hadrian gave honeyed whispers from Grammalatura that she was both beautiful and dignified. 

Georgine didn’t waste their time, “Lord Hadrian, I believe you are aware I saw the gaps in Verbergen’s shroud that hides your true rafel.” 

His eyes widened slightly, a blush crept to his cheeks, but he did not panic. “I do not mind if it’s you, Lady Georgine.”

Georgine contemplated how to reply, she was pretty sure that weirdo son of Rihyarda was spying somewhere unseen. She wanted to invite Lord Hadrian to a personal tea party, but alas they weren’t that close enough to warrant such interaction in a closed room yet. 

“Even if I hold that raffel to my advantage?” 

“I would ask first why you would do such a thing.” Lord Hadrian smiled. “I believe our purposes could be aligned, Lady Georgine.” 

Of course he had his own intel. That earned him a bit of respect from her. “As you expected… I need a consort husband to support my bid for Aub’s seat. I am flawed and so are you.” His engagement was canceled, and he was known to have raffel for another lord in his duchy already. “So… if you agree to marry me, I will let you keep your lover around as long as everything is hidden by Verbergen’s shroud. Though for the first few years of marriage you need to keep an appropriate distance until I solidify my reign.” 

Lord Hadrian surprised her by saying, “The tree of my heart may yearn for a dignified and strong Schutzaria like you too, Lady Georgine.” He smiled shamelessly.

Rozemyne would say her silly ‘Bwuh?!?’ at his outrageous statement. Georgine was not unfamiliar to lords holding raffel for her, though she was under the expectation Hadrian wouldn’t hold such favor for her. The lord however admitted his heart could hold rafels for both his current lover and Georgine as well. What a greedy man… so unlike his gentle expression and soft looks. Not that she minded much. Georgine knew a thing or two about greed, though it was a greed of a different kind.

Georgine refrained from sighing, “Do speak minimally of anything you don’t want to be known from here on out…  someone with lip reading is playing Seheweit for my political opposition.” 

Hadrian’s eyes widened. “I see…”

“I also understand I am asking you to marry below your station. Ehrenfest is closer to bottom rank after all… so-” 

Several bottles of cosmetics exclusive to her faction were brought in: there was rinsham, sentis water, variations of existing lip balm, different colors of eyeshadow, and rouge. The lip balm Rozemyne thought of had a gloss effect and lighter color, the eyeshadows also had a brighter color and at times it had gold powder mixed in. 

His eyes sparkled, “Of… is this the so-called hair gloss liquid?” 

“I have heard of your flair in concocting beauty products, and so I am in need of your assistance to produce cosmetics worthy to grace a royal princess’ dresser.” 

“What an honor.” 

Georgine smirked and had Grausam bring in a parchment for magical contract, “But of course, I can’t have Lord Hadrian to have samples of our precious commodity without a vow to Geboltnung, can I?” 

Lord Hadrian had his scholar lover come in, and they read the contract together. “A very fair and reasonable contract I’d say.” 

The contract was simple, the offering to the royal family would be their joint project. Georgine’s demand aside from assistance was Lord Hadrian coming to Ehrenfest as son in law and assisting Georgine developing their beauty product industry, Ehrenfest would also receive asylum of Drewanchel. In exchange Drewanchel would be given priority for any trend Georgine and her faction produce, and Georgine would take Hadrian and his problem off of their hands, treating him with respect as her first husband.  

“I am sure my adoptive father will agree… he will see Aub Ehrenfest during Interduchy’s Tournament to discuss our engagement.’

A week later after social season abated, Georgine returned for mana dedication ceremony and told Rozemyne about the confusing new fiancé of hers. 

Rozemyne just blinked before exclaiming, “Wow, this world also has [bisexual] people.” Rozemyne nodded sagely. “So the Liebeskhilfe and Greifechan’s charm I made works!” 

Indeed, she was lucky with her match this time. “...I still disagree with your plan to sell these suspicious charms in the temple or open any shop at all.” 

“But you let your uncle open a brothel in his home in the noble district!”

“Exactly. It’s not in the temple, dear Rozemyne.” 

She was still uncomfortable with the fact that Rozemyne suggested her uncle find his life calling as a… [pimp], or “Flower Peddler,” or whatever Rozemyne called the owner of a flower offering business. She did let Rozemyne push uncle Bezewast to sign a contract keeping strict criteria of the workers regardless of gender: all flowers had to be at least in their autumn; willing to serve without being forced or coerced; and it was mandatory that he and all others who managed the facility had to protect their safety and livelihood. 

Uncle Bezewast signed the contract on behalf of himself and the staff there so it was ironclad. And all customers had to sign an agreement to prevent mistreatment from their end. The conditions were favorable for flowers in an unprecedented way.

Georgine allowed Rozemyne to participate in the contract and the planning process since she cared for the greys. However, Georgine was unwilling to compromise on anything else. She was determined to sever all relations between Rozemyne and that darned place Uncle ran to make a living now.

Since she had the time, Georgine had her exclusives that were producing her trends in their workshop to come to the temple. Her announcement was simple: the trend of sweets, rinsham, and dyed cloth was drawing attention in the royal academy. So she wanted to ensure enough supply for after the spring conference. This was supposed to be her father’s job, but Georgine’s trends were hers so she would just tell him how much they could cater. 

Gustav approved and noted limiting supply to luxurious good appeal to their noble customers. Which alleviates their concern in supply. 

“Lady Georgine, aside from the supply there are other concerns.” Gustav began hesitantly.  

What else was there to be worry about? This was good, she wanted her people to bring problems to her attention instead of looking for Verbergen like Veronica’s followers.“Oh? Do enlighten me. It has been a long time since Ehrenfest participated in large-scale trade.” Because their duchy was so rural, and Gabriele’s and Veronica’s push for Ahrensbach’s trends robbed them of local products. “I always welcome you as our Anhaltung in the matter of commerce, Gustav.” 

The guildmaster nodded. “Yes, Milady… when Dio inform me of the wealth of trends that brought us Greifechan’s blessing from you, I knew then that it was time for Flutrane’s tide to rise… unfortunately our Geduldh has long been bereft of such blessings so there’s no appropriate facilities yet.” 

Basically when merchants from other duchies came, there were no appropriate lodgings. 

“What do we have at the moment?” She asked them. 

Of course, the merchants were a well prepared bunch who had made a survey of inns in the capital and what could be considered as entertainment, mainly taverns and spots where minstrels play their subpar music. Everything was in a pathetic state, and Georgine couldn’t stand the neglect towards their people that had caused all of this! 

“I wish to directly survey the situation in our downtown...” She had done it in spring and autumn at the provinces and farming towns, so it was nothing new. There was nothing better than making a personal judgment. The merchants’ complexion became the least popular color of winter, and Georgine wondered what they were thinking. 

“I-in the north?” Gustav almost stammered, obviously hoping Georgine would say so. 

“No, from north to south.” Georgine now was really worried about what made them so frightened. “I have heard rumors about our downtown being very dirty, and how the sewer system we purchased from Drewanchel has not yet been implemented for some reason…” She was so busy she had not figured out that mystery yet. Knowing how to rectify that was more important. 

Gustav was the most composed among the merchants so far, with Dio was an exception because the man had been working with Rozemyne extensively and had her protection. However the guild master was sweating and in spite of feigned calmness in his expression, there was no hiding the way his eyes wavered. 

“What do you know about the reason Ehrenfest was unable to implement the sewer system? Do you have any idea, guild master Gustav?” 

It took a while before the merchant regained his composure, he glanced at Dio as if confirming he would be not punished for answering Georgine’s question. This made Georgine rethink the relationship between commoner and nobles. Rozemyne had always harped on about communication between social classes, but Georgine had waved it off as childish naivety. 

Now she was thinking that her Mestionora’s words may have more merit. While the noble was the ruling class standing above the commoners, it was ridiculous if the commoners couldn’t even give an honest answer in fear of making nobles unhappy, especially when her trends were made by them. She wanted to know exactly how much demand for their trends could be fulfilled, not vague submissive answers catering to her wishes. It irritated her to be seen like any other noble that couldn’t handle the ‘reality’ of their situation. 

“Disperse with the honey of Grammatura. I wish to know the true state of my Geduldh… I’d rather know even the slightest scratch on her so I may call upon Flutrane to heal it.” 

It seemed her words managed to disperse their anxiety and Gustav began to speak. Ehrenfest had once saved enough materials and mana to implement a sewer system in their capital and add an extensive entwickeln that would prop their capital on the same level as their fellow middle duchy at the very least. However… At that crucial moment, Gabriele demanded those resources to be allocated to build up her new home Groschel instead. Apparently there was a lot of commotion and tantrums by the newly demoted Gabriele until at last her whim was approved. 

Ehrenfest never recovered enough for that project and Georgine’s father… Their current Aub never saw the need to go back to that project. He could not afford to since he kept just one wife and demoted her cousins to archnoble. Ehrenfest lack of business was written off as unfortunate part of being backwater duchy, and not due to their dirty downtown that repel business. Georgine dug her hand to her feystone pouch, powdering more than half she kept on herself. Just when I thought my parents and grandmother couldn’t go any lower…

“I promise to rectify this one way or the other…” She vowed, “And like I said, we will directly survey the downtown in three days.”   

The merchants knelt and promised to send over the clothes and supplies needed for their covert operation in downtown. 

Of course Rozemyne wanted to come and see downtown and she allowed her Mestionora to follow. After all, the girl had been cooped up in the temple for the whole winter, she needed some fresh air. Or rather... They suffered the stink of downtown together, which according to Dio was better than usual because of the snow. They also visited the inn, it was… all dusty and the sheets had seen better days. The tavern was loud and the food was unsanitary according to her older aides sent downstairs to try the alcohol and meal. Not to mention they had dogs roaming around eating dropped scraps, and cats in the kitchens to chase mice. 

Unbelievable.

The market was… decent. Their street food was not totally unpalatable but there was a lack of variety. Georgine also learned the restaurants downtown were also a den for flower offerings but cheaper. It seemed there was a need for Uncle to make a downtown branch of his establishments so the “waitresses” could be the attendants they were meant to be. Then they saw commoner pouring their dirty water from their window, and it took everyone's noble composure to not scream at the sight. Grausam was pointing at the other windows with the occupants doing the same and let out a silent scream, holding onto sound silencing tool. They made their way to merchant guild's building, where Gustav already have clean towel with warm water prepared. He looked really sorry for them but said nothing as he lend them a meeting room that thankfully clean and free from putrid air from outside. 

“This is a hotbed for disease!” Rozemyne exclaimed in horror. “For them and for us! Our food is from the farming towns, but don’t the chefs emulate their living environment? If the chefs get sick from here, we get sick! It’s like [Typhoid Mary]! Not to mention the people make everything from our furniture, to our clothes.”

Georgine shuddered and felt the need to washen her chambers when she returned home. "This is not acceptable indeed... not at all..." 

“If they are not well, we are not well as the receivers of their goods and services,” Rozemyne said with a serious look. “Nobelesse oblige isn’t just for charity’s sake, it’s for our sake too.”

“I can truly say that I can understand since I have seen it myself.” Georgine admitted. 

Their jaunt in the downtown was an enlightening experience in the end. However the terrible state of their capital made Georgine feel it was an open scar from the past left by Gabriele. 

“...we have to fix this somehow, but the city has grown too big beyond the initial blueprint…” Georgine murmured softly, “But the city is still dirty and would get dirtier upon the snow melting.” 

Rozemyne frowned, “ So we can just waschen everything?”

If she was drinking something, she would have choked. “Do you have any idea how much mana that would take, Rozemyne?” 

“No idea.” She answered honestly. 

Grausam, who was by default was some sort of mentor in magic to Rozemyne, began to explain. Waschen seemed like a simple magic to cast at first glance, but it could be quite tasking depending on the attribute of the caster. Laynobles with water attribute could cast it a couple of times to clean a whole room, mednoble would be able to do several rooms at once and archnobles the whole floor. Those without the attribute need enough water attribute feystones to get the job done.

“So the mana it takes is proportionate to the amount of water or how long the water stays?”

Grausam opened his mouth to answer, before clamming up. “...That’s…” He glanced at Sidonius who looked similarly deep in thought. 

Sidonius shook his head, “Waschen is a spell that casted in a brief moment most of the time, so it’s unknown.” 

“The water stays as long as needed for the target to be clean… for sure.” 

The idea had merit so Georgine sent whoever was free to experiment with it. Meanwhile Georgine began making calculations for entwickeln. The numbers were astronomical, but she tried to think like Rozemyne. Come to think of it… this girl was frugal when it came to things that were not books. She even used the subpar quality curtains and rugs that turned out to belong to the former orphanage director! Rozemyne always wanted to recycle and kept things she could still use… 

“Hm? I could do that too! Ho ho ho- there’s nothing wrong with being frugal indeed!” 

As for the experiment on waschen, as it was a very common spell used on a daily basis it was easy.  They managed to figure out mana required for waschen went to how much water they could summon, the duration of cleansing depended on how much dirt they wanted to wash. 

Rozemyne beamed, “Also spring is the season of Flutrane, and she washes away snow and ice in spring. So why not dirt? Shouldn’t the Goddesses also do some spring cleaning?” 

And that was how they ended up looking for a ‘ spring cleaning’ ritual that somehow made sense to Rozemyne’s mysterious brain. There were actually several spring rituals aside from the land nourishment annual trip. Spring cleaning ritual does exist, and it used the more ancient variant of scholar’s wide area magic.

“O Goddess of Water Flutrane, bringer of healing and change. O twelve goddesses who serve by her side. Please hear my prayer and lend me your divine strength. I offer to you our joy and songs of glee. I offer to you our prayers and gratitude, so that we may be blessed with your purifying protection. May your cleansing waves wash upon this land so that it might return to its intended form.” 

Georgine read, the prayer was quite simple and indeed just a bit different than one used for healing ceremony. There was dancing involved with Flutrane’s wand, she also had to sing. Which was good since it would look absolutely divine. 

The problem? Everyone had to compress like their life depended on it to afford spring prayer, the spring cleaning ritual, and also entwickeln. Rozemyne’s wish to spread the compression method was more urgent than Georgine thought. However this way she could at last wash the rotting scar from the past clean and someday in the future had Geduldh healed.

Notes:

So yeah, entwickeln is on the way and I set the premise for spring rituals.
Georgine's closeness with commoner is different, she sees their value as part of her Geduldh and feels insulted they can't be honest with her in fear she can't take bad news.
Also her leisegang retainers know about Gabriele upgrading Groschel, but not so much on HOW it's afforded because nobles aren't affected since their distric has the sewer system. Georgine now is on the opinion of, her non-existent aside, Gabriele should be drowned at birth.
That said, she still need Adelbert's permission for everything else so that's another hurdle.

Chapter 8: Ordoschnelli's Frantic Dance

Summary:

Ordoschnell is being overworked this season

Notes:

Happy New Year for me, so here is your first chapter of the year.
It's NOT EDITED for grammar yet- so proceed at your risk.

Georgine- Informing parents

“That’s it! All small grails are filled to the brim!” Announced the High Priest, who was supervising the process. The man was one of few original temple personnels Georgine kept because he was competent, and had signed a loyalty contract with suitable wages so he could continue as High Priest of the temple. “Congratulations, Lady Georgine for the first successful Winter Dedication Ceremony.” 

One of the blue robes turned retainers she sponsored, Marius looked in disbelief. “...The dedication ceremony is over in just a few days.” He murmured softly. “Almost less than half the time it took last year.” 

The shrine maiden beside him looked nervous, “Can we really graduate? Real nobles are more superior ....” 

“Galatea.” Chided Marius gently. “Lady Georgine give us this opportunity, and we have to do our best to have a future.”

“Marius…”  

Georgine didn’t mind their public display of affection too much, if love was what motivated these lovebirds as Rozemyne called them, so be it. “I believe in both of you, Marius, Galatea.” The two blue robes straightened their posture. “The two of you have been at your lowest in the temple, and I know better than anyone there’s no better motivation to climb out of the valley of despair.” 

If you have been at the bottom, the only way out is up. 

“Grausam, recovery potion please… now the dedication is over I would like to have Marius’ and Galatea’s mana measured right away.” 

“Yes, Milady!” 

Georgine was very pleased to see the pair who had low-mednoble mana level had increased their mana again exponentially since they started compressing in autumn. They were more than willing to tread the dangerous slope of compression than regular noble, and were even better at it because they had spent their whole life moving mana to sacred tools. It made Georgine envious, as in her first year it was a real struggle to move mana in her body without assistance from a children's magical tool. 

“At the rate they’re going, Marius and Galatea would grow their mana to high mednoble level by the end of this season and could possibly hit Archnoble’s level next year.” Reported Grausam. 

“Well, Glucklitat has paid his due for them.” 

The same could not be said for a certain beloved heir who had been deprived of that blessing. Information from the children's winter room had trickled from her retainer’s younger relatives. As part of initiating them to the faction, children had been gathered at the beginning of winter to have classes with Rozemyne’s curriculum. It was a trial for temple school, Rozemyne wanted so much. Because children’s learning was the best excuse in the world to have more books.  

They had been taught how to calculate in two and three digits, and those advanced enough were doing multiplications. Theology was taught through simplified scripture written by Rozemyne. Music using simple and fun songs composed by Rozemyne and Christine together to also learn letters, Then by the end of the day they would be fed sweets for a job well done, and best students get extra. 

The parents were amazed by how easy it was for their children to love learning, and children were eager to brush up their skills for the next class. 

So imagine their reaction when the children’s winter room led by Sylvester started. Not only Sylvester avoided socializing with non-veronican children (to be fair that’s his retainers’ fault) and their supposed heir was playing harder than anyone else especially in snowball war. Then… When classes started, he escaped as it was too boring for him. 

According to Grausam’s youngest brother, Mathias- he was thoroughly amazed by Sylvester’s childish behavior. Especially since his nanny, RIhyarda was brought in just to glare at their heir so he sat still in classes. 

Worst of all, according to their children… Veronica kids surrounding Sylvester also devolved to bratty playful children to get closer to him. It was humiliating to witness. 

As for Sylvester’s grades, he was found to be passable, but of course that was not what Sylvester’s teachers said to their parents. which reminded Georgine of their mentors’ assessment of his capability. Arguably both of them were about the same in terms of academic potentials, but where Georgine had hardwork and determination in spades, Sylvester didn’t want to do more than what was required, if that. Some children just have a better drive for academics while others don’t.  

Rozemyne scoffed when Georgine relayed this to her. “People who could do things ‘when they put their mind to it’ can’t do anything unprompted because they lack resolve. Does everyone around Lord Sylvester want to wait for him to mature sometime in the distant future? Just sit around and hope it wouldn’t be too late to fix it by the time he becomes Aub? What an awful plan.” 

“Is that so?”

“It’s one thing if his future is only about himself, but we’re nobles… even laynoble’s future concern his whole family, no? The scale can’t even compare for your clan who own the duchy… there’s privilege given to him so he had to pay it back in form of obligation to his people.” 

The problem however, that should have been taught to Sylvester from early age. However Georgine knew Veronica never taught him that, even during her own education Veronica was concerned on Georgine becoming heir to solidify her position not Ehrenfest and their people. Georgine never saw his father correcting this, and if not for Rozemyne and her frequent travel as High Bishop, Georgine wouldn’t be able to learn fully about those weak but hardworking commoners tiling the field to feed the duchy, craftsmen creating wonderful work of art, and merchant selling their wares more blessed by Mestionora than some nobles in their occupation. 

Of course, there were nobles working supporting their archducal clan to protect their beloved land. 

On what grounds did her parents leave the future of their duchy in uncertainty, the fate of thousands hinging on whether Sylvester would ever find the resolve to better himself? All because he was a man? Georgine herself had held some hope for Sylvester before. In the past she thought if she showed him the way he or taught him about the threats of the world that would do better. 

Somewhere within her there was an ember of hope for Sylvester still, but she was not going to compromise her own path to bring her duchy to glory as next Aub for that tiny spark. At some point in the past she had tried to accept becoming minister to support Sylvester, only to be disappointed to see him escaping Erwachlerhlen and content to hear the honey of Grammatur from their parents and aides. Was it so wrong for Georgine back then to decide she didn’t want to support such an heir? 

Georgine would return to the academy by the time the dedication ceremony was over, and had all the chalices locked in her hidden room. After all, Veronica would definitely attempt to ‘steal’ chalices one way or another. She finished earlier than scheduled, it took merely four days with the help of her aides, more than willing to fill small chalices that would nourish the land. 

“That’s faster than I expected… Uncle said it usually takes more than a week.” Georgine commented, her aides were busy tidying up her room for another half of the academic season in academy. The grays also joined in but they could only handle clothes, nothing delicate like materials and the likes. 

“Indeed, we have recovery potion and compression so it helps! Hmm!” Rozemyne was enjoying parue pancake with whipped cream, squirming in happiness. Georgine agreed it was tasty but the young girl was getting too comfortable. 

Her aides adored her though, and her open nature, while inelegant, convinced them she was her Mestionora who would do her no wrong.  

Rozemyne swallowed before speaking again, “I will say it again, I want to teach nice blues who passed our screening compression. The first stage of my method should be safe enough, right? We can tie them up with magic contracts as part of payment too and get more solid allies in the temple!” 

“Rozemyne, you are too dependent on Gebotordnung’s contract. It could be circumvented with the right loophole,” Georgine pointed out. 

She shrugged, “Then don’t make one, and if you are worried so much add fine print.”

“What is fine print?” 

Rozemyne had ranted about the writing of a good contract before, how a valid offer had to be made, the parties ‘clearly’ written, specific offer and specific return, In particular, consider whether there will be "damages," or remedies for what happens if the contract is breached. Now she was telling them the art of sneaking Verbergen under Geboltnung’s eyes. 

“Fine prints is not very nice but if you are so worried about them biting back the hands that feed them, use it to protect our interest but I’d rather we be clear of consequence of betraying that contract. I don’t agree with people being burned in the fire of the goddess for every situation. I mean… dead people can’t pay you compensation, right?” 

Georgine sighed, “Rozemyne, have you not learned why it is so difficult to place legislation in the Book of Law?”

“Well, the immutable Book of Law requires a really difficult procedure to erase outdated laws. That is if the original method hasn’t completely disappeared…” Rozemyne said in between bites of parue cake, not even giving Georgine the time to process that statement.

“If I were to hazard a guess, it is because nobody has put down a clause for amendments. As long as there’s solid evidence that the law is no longer relevant, outdated, or clashes with newer law… and so on… wouldn’t that be the easiest thing?” She said, forking a piece of pancake to polish whipped parue cream on the plate. 

“They could just have Archduke council approve the amendment with a majority vote or something to make it more legit. It’s better than committing sacrilege against Gebotordnung by the law nilly willy. There must be checks and balances.” 

Georgine’s cup clattered against the saucer, and she knew the silence in the room meant everyone in the High Bishop’s room had stopped working. They were all staring at Rozemyne, who finished the last bite of her sweets and asked her gray attendant to refill her tea. 

The girl then turned her attention back to them. “What? Am I wrong to say they should put down a law specifying how to amend outdated laws?”

“...No… you are very much correct. It is just too… surprising.” 

“What’s so shocking? I am sure Gebordnung will understand that some laws can’t work indefinitely. Things change. To keep order, the laws need to change with the times. It’s not like Gebordnung is an enemy of Dregarnuhr.” 

Whether or not the Goddess of Order understood mortal’s circumstances wasn’t the issue, Rozemyne ! It was that you just solved the dilemma the ruling class of Yurgenschmidt had for millennia in the course of a single meal! Georgine wanted to scream at her ward. 

“...We shall have this suggestion saved deep within our hearts for now.” There was no way Georgine would ever let father take credit for this. However, as much as she wanted this credit for Ehrenfest, their current low rank was a hindrance to even suggest it to the royal family. Less the overly proud fools in grand duchies decide to avert their eyes from this wisdom because Ehrenfest suggests it. “Let’s discuss something more… simple. Like how to raise our rank in ditter for the Interduchy Tournament.”

It was a shame to find out in olden days Eisenreich could give even Dunklefelger a run for their money. Drewanchel and Werkestock had no weight against the duchy of the wind blessed by Schutzaria. 

“What’s ditter? Some sort of sport?” 

Georgine sighed and beckon her aides that would join said ditter and erected a soundproof barrier, because they had learned of Rozemyne's eccentricity. Most could only tolerate her outrageousness in small doses. This six years old just admitted she understood the book of law but didn’t even know what ditter was. Did Georgine forget to include it somewhere in the curriculum? Sure she did; ditter was not a priority for Rozemyne to know. 

Ritthauz then explained after the barrier was elected, “Lady Rozemyne, ditter is a competition involving mainly knights in which we compete to steal and destroy the ‘treasure’ of our opponent… so it would show our capabilities for both defense and offense.” 

Georgine noted Ritthauz had a talent and patience for teaching. He would do well as a knight course professor. It was a shame. Georgine was not giving him away to Sovereignty. Even if the Linkbergs were still disagreeable she was sure she could convince them eventually. When she took her rightful place, Ritthauz could at least be vice-commander of their knight order as a minister with his older brother. 

“So it’s a mock war, a training in case you go to war with another duchy over foundation?”

“...You could say that.” 

“So everything goes. What’s the conventional tactic for a low-ranked, weak duchy like ours?” 

Needless to say, apparently their Mestionora knew more than one or two things about the art of war. Rozemyne turned their perception of the world upside down again. Several extra boxed of luggage was brought back to the academy as result, much to the confusion of knights in charge of guarding the teleportation circle.

She had finished her meeting with merchants, downtown jaunt, and also dedication ceremony. She had scheduled returning to Ehrenfest mid-winter for a week, and the day after tomorrow would be her return date to the Royal Academy. She could be careless if  Aub Drewanchel approached them without warning during the Interduchy Competition, but she supposed she had given them enough unpleasant surprises this year. 

It was not like this engagement could be stopped, by now her remaining scholars in the academy would have shared her project’s summary with Hadrian. According to her apprentice scholars, the Drewanchel students were in disbelief by the ‘result’ she promised from this research. Of course, the Drewanchel students were borderline trying to push participation in the project but Hadrian stopped them. The project was part of their courtship after all, and Hadrian offered assisting non-intrusively by requesting cooperation from professors in charge. 

Her sharp fiancé once again made it known to her people he was not an invasive foreign noble like Gabriele. She was truly blessed by Greifechan, and perhaps also Erwaermen. It was definitely not the mischievous Liebeskhilfe. That was Aub Ehrenfest and Lady Veronica, who saw Georgine’s marriage as a way to get rid of competition for their beloved son.  

Alas… while she puzzled over how to ask for audience with Aub, Freylia informed her that Uncle Bonifatius asked for all knights available to assist with subjugation of Winter Lord. It seemed her action as Flutrane of Ehrenfest called upon stronger Winter Lord than usual, and Northern provinces were caught off guard because they didn’t adjust the quantity of their feybeast hunting accordingly. 

“It’s amazing, Lady Georgine! It’s a Wildaffe this year!” Freylia was excited like a little girl faced by new sweets. 

She was no expert of feybeast, but her knights quickly filled her in about how rare of this particular feybeast to evolve a winter lord. “It’s a very elusive beast and distantly related to Badaffe in the south but they’re so much bigger, bipedal and abominable!”

The fur in particular was the most priced ingredient, along with the fang.  

“This world have a yeti?!” Exclaimed Rozemyne, “I want to see!”  

Georgine flicked Rozemyne’s forehead, “This comes from the girl who gets a fever after a trip to the stinky downtown, just rest!” 

She left her Mestionora in the temple and rushed to Haldenzel with several sacred tools, they were already emptied after the dedication ceremony after all. She was a responsible archduke candidate, so of course she couldn’t stay still. 

Her arrival at the rear of the battlefield against the Winter Lord was welcomed warmly, except by Uncle Bonifatius. Then again, her paternal uncle had done his best to be unhappy whenever she came near the Knight Order.

“Never fear, knights of Ehrenfest! For I shall guard your back!” She healed the injured and blessed those who needed it. 

She lent the Ewigeliebe’s sword to Haldenzel Knights, and then the spear to Uncle Bonifatius. For all his stubbornness against her, he was aware Georgine was more deeply blessed by Mestionora than he was. 

The subjugation was completed as swiftly as Steifebrise. She tried to refuse but the knights insisted she deserved part of the spoils. She didn’t refuse again and took her share back to the temple. 

One would think they would be rewarded when called after assisting such a grand subjugation, but alas… her parents predictably wanted to warn her from ‘showing off’ and made their nine years old son looked bad in comparison. She didn’t let them take charge of the conversation and scolded her for nonexistent mistake. 

She informed them the good news, they didn’t have to worry that no lord would ever want to marry her. 

“Drewanchel?! You claim you managed to court a lord  from Drewanchel?!”

Their daughter being courted by a talented and attractive lord from a grand duchy should be news that most parents rejoiced over, but alas Aub Ehrenfest and Lady Veronica were not most parents. Lady Veronica’s complexion beneath her veil was the ugly shade of puce when Georgine added Lord Hadrian’s adoptive father had also agreed to provide Ehrenfest an asylum. 

It was actually conditional, the condition was if Georgine could present an interesting research that would benefit Drewanchel during interduchy tournament. She wasn’t going to tell her parents that of course, not that she needed to. Georgine was very confident she would succeed. 

“Ehrenfest is already under Ahrensbach’s asylum, Georgine!” 

“There’s no law banning another grand duchy to do so too.” Georgine pointed out. “I have discussed this extensively with my peers in the archduke candidate course.” 

It didn’t escape Georgine, the look of envy in Veronica’s eyes. It was most tragic that Veronica never realized Gabriele was to blame for many of her problems; that she was born archnoble due to her mother’s stubbornness, and that her mother’s poor upbringing dragged the status of both her father and herself. 

“Furthermore, Aub Drewanchel’s sister is the first lady of Aub Ahrensbach. They are close allies.” It was common knowledge that Ahrensbach and Drewanchel archducal clan often intermarry. “There would only be issues if they were from different factions.” 

Currently the strongest candidates to be Zent’s heir were First Prince Claudius of the Werkestock line and Second Prince Waldifried born of collateral royal princess. Drewanchel had sided early with Prince Waldifried, and their princess had married to him as his first wife. Aub Ahrensbach’s youngest sister was Prince Waldifried’s second lady. 

Just one of many reasons why Georgine was after Drewanchel’s lord as her son in law. She was blessed by Liebeskhilfe for once to find Hadrian.  

“Even if that is not the case, Ahrensbach’s first and second lady are from different factions themselves.” Georgine went on. “I do not think Ahrensbach would have issues I am going to marry a Drewanchel’s lord, and one with merit no less.”

Veronica bristled, “What merit could a mere adopted son bring anyway?”

Georgine raised an eyebrow at Veronica, who apparently did not understand the hierachy of Drewanchel’s archducal children. Or as usual, she was devoid of Ordoschnelli anywhere not Ahrensbach and Ehrenfest. 

“Hadrian is the adopted son of first lady of Drewanchel.” She pointed out, “it’s outrageous to look down on him.” She held back from adding, Hadrian’s status was loftier than Gabriele. 

Meinrad came to Veronica’s rescue, “Lady Veronica, your daughter’s chosen son in law is considered in line for Aubhood right behind the first lady’s biological children. He is placed above the lesser wife’s biological children by Drewanchel’s custom.”

Indeed, Hadrian had a pretty glorious future if not for his quirky nature. Georgine herself was unaware of this until her scholars dig into Hadrian’s background, he was very low key for his status. Then again if he was so excellent internally, it was wise to not be so ambitious as a younger adoptive brother of Drewanchel’s heir. 

“Furthermore, Lord Hadrian has always had a deep interest in concocting, and is one of the best of my peers. He has agreed to assist me in perfecting the hair gloss potion, rinsham, to be worthy of royal tribute.” 

Veronica quickly asked, “That thing from the trends you have guarded so jealously like Ewigeliebe… what would people say when they hear your own mother is deprived of it.” 

“Is it not the nature of trends to keep it within our respective factions?” Georgine wondered out loud. “Also, my faction practices a strict membership only policy. It is not a rule that I will break myself.” 

Her father looked disappointed. “There will be an inquiry about it in spring. If you are so secretive, how could your Aub be able to answer? 

“There will be an inquiry…but the rights for both manufacturing and distribution belong to Georgine’s faction in Ehrenfest. So that should be the answer, as it is the truth.” She smirked. “There will be three conditions to make it a duchy’s commodity, and once they are met the trends will be open to the public.”

They paid a rapt attention to her words.  

“ First of all I want to retain full authority over every trend created by my faction that you wish to offer in Interduchy trade.” 

Silence fell in the room at her clear and harsh demand. 

“Georgine!” Veronica was the first to object. “You have been cut off from state affairs! How dare you try to circumvent Aub’s decree like this?” 

She ignored Veronica and went on to explain. “Aside from Ehrenfest’s traditional dyed cloth, the trends of my faction are produced in small numbers. To protect the interest of my people, their representatives and I have signed exclusive contracts.” Within Ehrenfest, workshops couldn’t be built without the approval of Georgine and at least two Giebes who would dispatch the mentors and tools. 

Her father heaved a sigh, “...What a system… and who are they?”

“Giebe Haldenzel in the North, Leisegang in the south, Kimberga in the East and Groschel in the West.” Veronica’s scowl deepened with each name Georgine uttered. 

“What of Ehrenfest’s greater good then, Georgine?” Veronica asked sarcastically, “Surely you have not forgotten what you preach yourself.” 

Georgine practiced ignoring Veronica like an art, “They are still recovering from severe repeated harvest failure and while my trends manage to revive their economy our goal is to ensure self-sufficient agriculture in every province.” 

“I have approved the proposal for greenhouses and expansion of their farmland.” Aub Ehrenfest sounded incredibly reluctant, obviously Veronica gave him a lot of grief over it. Her father let his words hang but what he didn’t say was clear, what more they want. 

“Frankly, it’s reasonable for me to ask for this right… I am the one who know how much sales we can cater for the spring conference. We will not be responsible if you promise sales we can not provide… Aub.” 

“Aub, Georgine is speaking nonsense!” 

“Veronica, enough!” Bonifatius snapped, “Let Aub think!”

Father heaved a sigh, before saying. “Meinrad… What do you think of Georgine’s demand?” 

The scholar rubbed his goated chin thoughtfully, “What can I say… as demanding as it sounds, Lady Georgine is not wrong. If you refuse, Milord has to deal with the Giebes yourselves and they’re… difficult.” And that was the last thing her dearest father wanted to deal with. Giebe Haldenzel and Giebe Kimberga were civil but the rest were not so kind. They would not agree to anything her father said and would give him as much grief as they could if they were not compensated appropriately. 

Georgine could see her father struggle to come to a decision so she made it easy for him. “Here is a rough outline of the sales you can propose in spring that I recommend, Aub Ehrenfest.” 

Meinrad took the wooden boards for inspection, his eyes widened for a moment before enthusiastically recommending it to Aub. “Lady Georgine proposed a system called [franchise] for beauty products from her faction, which would give Ehrenfest a continuous revenue from each branch…” Most basic products could be sold freely to the masses, but the highest quality products would need to be purchased from the exclusive franchise shop. Each franchise shop would have a salon for ladies to relax and socialize. 

It would obviously be under control of the each duchy’s respective First Lady (except Ehrenfest), and Georgine got to set the system and get part of the profits. 

“As this is not a duchy led business, I will be generous and donate 25% percent of our profits to the duchy's coffer.” 

Veronica narrowed his eyes, “It’s unacceptable for you to get any profits from interduchy’s business!” 

“The business not funded at all by the duchy, it’s all funded by the Giebe and myself.” Georgine pointed out. “Unless, you would like to convince the Giebes you deserve all profits from their business.” Which would be a daylight robbery. 

Aub frowned, “You’re securing funds…” 

“To rebuild the devastated land, Aub,” Georgine stated firmly. “I will send you our complete financial reports if you want to be sure I am not up to anything treacherous.” She chuckled softly. “But part of it would be mostly food and infrastructure, not much for myself. After all… how could I bring myself to dress in finery when in the north many died from cold and starvation?” 

Then Georgine looked Veronica in the eye for the first time since the conversation began. 

“Georgine…” Aub Ehrenfest called her, unwilling to let accusing eyes be casted upon his precious goddess. 

“That’s it for beauty products. Please sign this contract that would ensure an abundant spring for Ehrenfest.” 

She had the parchment ready and gave copies in the form of bamboo scroll for perusal. 

Meinrad read the content out loud, the contract was simple enough in outlining the distribution of profits, the policy of expanding workshops, and ensuring access of non-Georginian to the beauty product after winter was over.“Duchy’s representatives as ‘distributor’ are obligated to promote the products and facilitate sales with other duchies in the form of franchise, in exchange Lady Georgine and representatives of Giebe led industries are obligated to provide assistance in form of training, sample products and guidelines.” He went on, “Suppliers shall also provide access for general populations to their third and second class products at non-member’s rate.” 

 It was an ironclad contract that was far different from what they had learned in scholar’s classes, Rozemyne was strangely meticulous when a contract was concerned. She outline that they had to be clear the parties involved in the contract and their respective roles, terms, obligations and last price, payment and delivery. 

“It’s ironclad and very much fair, Aub.” Meinrad concluded.

Veronica interjected, “What does third and second class product means?! This contract should nullify the exclusive contract of your salon!” 

Georgine resisted her urge to roll her eyes, “Of course not, what’s the point of a faction if benefits are not distributed exclusively? Third and Second class product’s quality is still very good, just not the best. Which is reserved for premium members of the salon… which also include grand duchies’ ladies and royalties.” 

Veronica bristled, but didn’t say anything more. Obviously holding back from throwing a tantrum that she deserved nothing but the best, but not even Veronica would claim she deserved royal quality goods. 

After Aub Ehrenfest gave the contract another glance over, he signed it as Aub of Ehrenfest. It was therapeutic to see the contract burn in brilliant golden light. 

Veronica impatient inquired again, “What of other products? The novel recipes… and that infernal dyed fabrics?” 

“We will discuss it shortly.” Georgine continued, “They’re not consumable like beauty products” Georgine pointed out, “Recipes would be available for purchase in spring but not all, and some houses might have to part with precious bolts of fabric to meet demand in spring.” She would hide Penelope’s existence for as long as possible. 

Bonifatius gaped at her, “You still have more conditions, Georgine?” 

“I am not going to ask anything outrageous…” Georgine assured them with a smile, already applying her newly acquired negotiation skill from the merchant. She had observed Gustav during their downtown jaunt making a deal with a mednoble, and was amazed by how easily the supposedly socially inferior merchant played his client. 

Rozemyne dubbed it, the art of bargaining. 

“Considering my contributions to the duchy this year, especially this season… is it not just right to give a meritorious archduke candidate a chance to compete for the highest seat?” 

“Absolutely not!” Veronica shouted. “Georgine, how dare you!” 

Georgine resisted her urge to return that to Veronica, how dare she declare the heir as mere archnoble. “Am I not the Archduke Candidate of Ehrenfest?”

Tension was so thick in the room, it felt like she could cut it. At last after a long silence, Aub responded. “I have appointed Sylvester as my heir, and I will not revoke that.” 

Georgine was enjoying herself, she didn’t care so much about approval of a man so blinded by spring he didn’t see the peril of his duchy. “This is more for stability of our Geduldh than my sake, do you not wish to pacify your people at all?”    

It was a clear threat. Refusing would irrevocably worsen her father’s relations with the provinces suporting Georgine. 

“He is indeed the heir of your choosing, but by the norms of Yurgenschmidt he has accomplished nothing to deserve his title other than…” She smirked to herself, “Being born a male.” The look on her parent’s face was fury, because of course they hated to be told the truth that Sylvester did not deserve his position. “Which is a concern, is it not?” 

Georgine saw the entourage by his side wavered, it was a concern unspoken in Aub’s office. The chosen heir had no merit and a serial class slacker, and Aub’s refusal to consider it had further discredit him throughout the years. Of course, Sylvester was in blissful ignorance. 

Which was just right, the choice was not his but Veronica’s and Adelbert’s. 

“Perhaps at least we can put up an appearance by letting me get involved more directly with matters of state.” 

Veronica vehemently refused, “You will not threaten Sylvester’s position anymore than you already did, just go to Drewanchel if you must!” 

“Aub Drewanchel would see you in interduchy tournament to discuss our engagement, and schedule a preparation for Hadrian to move to Ehrenfest in spring after our graduation.” Georgine went on, “After all, a minimum of one year preparation is needed for an archduke candidate like him to move to his new Geduldh.” Apparently this was news to them, were they under the impression this engagement was not yet approved by Aub Drewanchel? “Of course, next spring Hadrian’s adoptive parents would request Zent’s approval for our match.” 

“You don’t have our approval!” Shrieked Veronica. 

Georgine just shrugged, “Well, what could we do if a grand duchy with rank far above ours wishes to marry down?” 

“We will just see, it won’t be as you planned, Georgine.” Veronica vowed, perhaps thinking Ahrensbach would back her up. 

Father had gone very pale, obviously now he understood it would be by Greifechan’s protection they could stop this match. If he refused to give Georgine any status, it would be extremely awkward if he distanced the wife of a Drewanchel’s archduke candidate from politics. It would be disrespectful to Drewanchel. 

Georgine let him stew, “My greatest concern is the stability of Ehrenfest, you could only ignore the biggest faction in our duchy for so long…” 

He for sure had received the news by now, how academy students was quickly influenced by Georginian mindset and there were more young Georginian than Veronican in academy now. It was a thin margine for now, but her faction had outgrown Veronican in quantity.

“I shall offer talented people of my faction for suitable positions in the castle, would that be acceptable Aub Ehrenfest? I am sure you would be needing them soon with the increasing trade. ”

There- she had compromised twice with him, and gave her real demand as if it was third option.   

“Very well…” Her father gave in, their Aub looked exhausted. 

“Adelbert!” Cried Veronica. 

“Georgine… anything else?”

It seemed father was in a hurry to have their thread entangled today, likely to discuss with his entourage and Veronica how to curb her influence. Georgine made a show to ponder, as if her initial demand had to be thrown out of the window now she was still not in the running for heir or given access to state affairs. 

Yet at the same time she couldn’t pass up the chance to demand more. 

“There’s a future duchy project I wish to conduct for the sake of our Geduldh.” Georgine began hesitantly, keeping the detail vague. “It would be an open and transparent project that would elevate our duchy, bringing peace and harmony to our people.” She boasted, as if there was no solid planning behind it yet. “However, without Aub’s approval there are several tiny issues…”

“You didn’t seem to know what you’re planning here.” 

“What can I do? You insist on the third condition after rejecting not one but two completely reasonable ones.” Georgine lamented mockingly. “This is a project in distant future still in planning stage but if Greifechan is willing…” She trailed off. “So I hope for full support of Aub and the archducal clan for this one independent project, which will be a magical contract of course.” 

“What project is this?” 

“Gebordnung’s system that protects the law and order of Ehrenfest.” 

The discussion became a heated debate if that kind of project would be allowed at all. She pointed out about her finding in autumn, how tax was collected excessively and was the main cause of their poor economy. Their Aub became very pale at the piled report that showed all cities had given not ten but thirty percent excess in tax but none made it to duchy’s coffers. This was a survey conducted fairly, and Georgine ensure to word it as what the villages ‘offered’ as the norms. 

“Lies!” 

“This is known to everyone involved in harvest period, this level of corruption cannot be considered little offering to their superior. My first year as High Bishop is the first time these villages could pass their winter safely and not skirting with running out of supplies before Flutrane return to the land.” 

Meinrad’s frown deepened, as did many scholars of Aub not in Veronica’s pocket. “It should be easy enough to confirm… Aub, this is excessive indeed. Lady Georgine is right, our duchy couldn’t sustain ourselves without falling further into our financial crisis.” 

Veronica, of course, was the ‘pit’ where the excess of gold went, but no matter how furious she couldn’t speak against this. She was smart enough to know not even Aub Ehrenfest could excuse it when it was brought out in the open, and her political enemies already knew. All she could do was discard the most incompetent followers lacking Verbergen’s protection and laid low. 

Aub Ehrenfest gave her a long scrutinizing look, “This Gebordnung system project would be supervised with severe eyes… if it’s truly for the sake of Gebordnung.” 

Georgine willingly agreed the ‘credit’ would not be hers alone but the entire archducal clan, and she feigned reluctance for it. Aub easily agreed Sylvester wouldn’t have the credit as a minor. The project couldn’t be a risk to the safety of their family members (mostly Veronica) in any way. 

“That’s very vague, Aub Ehrenfest.” Georgine pointed out. “How could we possibly know? Verbergen’s protection is quite strong in Ehrenfest.” 

Uncle Bonifatius interjected, “Just word it better then! Don’t you have strong protection of Grammatur?” 

Meinrad, always the voice of reason, made his suggestion. “It would be simpler, if Lady Georgine’s Gebordnung is conditioned to not bring harm to archducal house of Ehrenfest and loyal  to greater good of our Geduldh.” 

Her uncle looked pleased, “As expected for Meinrad, that way- the project wouldn’t bring advantage to just one faction!” 

She made a show to sigh, as if defeated. “Very well, I shall have the contract written shortly…” She was inwardly smirking at the phrasing of using the entire clan and duchy. 

“So soon?” 

“I wish for this issue to be over with as soon as possible, I would be too busy for the last stretch of winter and spring.” 

Several conditions were added, the scale of this project would be small and within the confines of capital for the trial. Georgine argued to give her more time for the complete proposal for this project and the preparation, which gave her parents more confidence she was ill prepared and could just chuck it out as a failure later. Aub Ehrenfest would assign a trusted scholar to keep an eye on the progress, and named Meinrad. Personnels from all factions had to be involved in the process. 

Georgine made a show to look exasperated by all ‘checks’ and ‘balance’ she had to accommodate. “If this is the case, the end result of Gebordnung system project have to be given independent power separated from our government to be just and fair.” 

“Only if it reaches completion with satisfactory results.” Aub Ehrenfest added. 

Whose satisfaction would be the measuring stick was left unsaid. The stage was set to welcome Gebordnung to Ehrenfest. 

Gebordnung Sanctuary Project, start! 

Bonifatius- Headache Report 

He had always known that Georgine was a model student, while Sylvester… was a bit like himself. However it seemed Adelbert was stressed by the reality in the academy, as academic prowess was measured by stone cold numbers. It was not just that Georgine was a better student than Sylvester, but his nephew was middling in his class according to his tutors. It wasn’t like the boy was completely devoid of intelligence, he was just not academically driven.

However with his sister being such an overachiever, there was no avoiding how bad he looked in comparison. It was the smearing champaign all over again, this time however Georgine didn’t need ordoschnell as everyone could see the worse of the comparison by next year. 

“That Georgine…” Adelbert groaned, “... She even redecorates the dormitory without permission, and took even firmer control of the dormitory.” 

Which was part of her duty as archduke candidate, however she should prepare the students to also welcome Sylvester as the archduke candidate in charge. However she created a new system of grade improvement that made it even harder for Sylvester to acclimate himself with. Basically there was no consideration given for her freshman brother next year. 

“She has been leading the dorm for years, and your son is not the aggressive sort.” Meinrad pointed out. “Did you think Lord Sylvester would bother with the work of guiding younger students and arranging the study group like Lady Georgine is doing next year?” 

“Meinrad…” 

The scholar was firm. “I know you expect better for your son, but you have to be realistic. You have to be firmer and perhaps… even double his class.” 

Adelbert shook his head, “This is not Sylvester’s fault, I don’t wish to make him feel punished for what Georgine did…” 

Bonifatius frowned, he didn’t like how his brother worded that. What was wrong with Sylvester working harder to be an exceptional student, why calling learning punishment? 

“Lady Georgine also ensure students of Veronican faction could not challenge her decision in redecorating the room, even Rihyarda was shut down.” 

Bonifatius felt his blood boil, Georgine dared to use loyalty to one’s land to further her agenda again. He didn’t think in their place he could answer her question about the color of their cloak any better, there was no correct answer other than to obey her. He had to admire Georgine’s readiness. She had made this move to show her dominance over her opposing faction. 

“I am more worried about her trends attracting the attention of greater duchies and royals…” 

“Lady Georgine seems confident she has everything under control, however.” 

Which was not something his younger brother liked to hear either. Bonifatius lamented that Georgine was not born a boy. His niece was strict and harsh, but she was obviously capable. He could only hope Sylvester would get better. Soon, as scheduled, Georgine would return for two weeks for the winter dedication ceremony. Adelbert said her absence from academy for temple duties should have helped the negative impression towards her. 

Bonifatius and Meinrad agreed that Adelbert was too optimistic. 

Georgine returned with one third of her entourage on Earthday. Her expression was tense for some reason. 

“Welcome back, Georgine.” 

“Oh, Uncle Bonifatius…” She boldly looked him up and down before declaring. “You could dress more like Ehrenfest’s archduke candidate.” Georgine rushed out of the teleportation chamber with her entourage like Steiferize, her adult aides joining her. Bonifatius couldn’t even get a word in as she started chanting off orders and passing rolls of tied wooden slip? in the corridor. 

“What has gotten into her?” 

It was only when he was back home and was greeted by dozens of dyed cloth between his wife and daughter in law that Bonifatius started to understand what his niece meant by dressing up like an Ehrenfest. Both he and his son had bolt upon bolt of cloth matched to their skin and hair frantically. When it was done they were both exhausted, and Bonifatius was barely able to escape in the evening for a drinking night with his brother. 

“Your daughter has changed fashion trends in Ehrenfest by force!” Bonifatius roared as soon as he finished his first glass of vize. “My wife and daughter in law were like knights under siege, so that by spring we all need to incorporate Ehrenfest dyed cloth in our fashion!”

Adelbert’s eyes widened in shock and Bonifatius pointed at Meinrad whose scholar uniform had a sash made of dyed cloth. “...It was also news for me. My son sent me a letter… his superior’s daughter serves Princess Satella, and apparently your daughter made quite a show of dyeing the cloth. Now it’s believed by the grand duchies and the Sovereignty that this is our duchy’s latest fashion.” 

“I noticed Giebes of Georginian faction did wear them, but how could it escalate out of control like this?”

“From what I understand, Lady Georgine didn’t expect this either…” Meinrad murmured softly between sips of vize. “Her policy is that ‘Ehrenfest nobles should use our local products,’ and it’s good enough to catch the eyes of our superiors. But then she over-impressed Princess Satella and now the royal princess wants the fabrics offered by the spring conference.” He also added that his contract in Sovereignty said the queens, princesses, and collateral royal ladies were enamored by the new trendy fabric and cosmetics. 

Adelbert shook his head, “This is only half-way through the season.” 

Meinrad had contact with neutral leaning Georginian who sent him an empty sample set for them to review. For their native nobles, the bottles were designed simply in pottery vessels. The ones offered to the royals were made with clear glass. Lady Georgine was prepared to send more sets for the royal princesses and queens, but collateral royal ladies asked for themselves too. The queens had apparently tried their samples and appeared in social events even more beautiful than ever. 

Princess Satella’s fan also attracted quite a lot of attraction. 

So now his niece was plied with request for ‘sample’ for everyone to try. “It’s backfired in a way for Lady Georgine, the sample is to appease our superiors to wait for spring conference but there’s more demand for the sample from royals she couldn’t refuse.” 

Bonifatius scowled, “So that explains her rush…”

“Hopefully my daughter would be too busy with the royal order to cause any more problems.” 

Bonifatius nodded, “I hope so, by the way… there’s this weird wooden roll she was using… what is that?”

Meinrad also produced the mentioned product for them to see.“Bamboo scroll, a new product from Georginian faction.” Menrad’s eyes shone with enthusiasm. “A delight to use because it can hold more content than wooden board, just a bit more expensive but also easier to store because you can either roll or fold it.” He pulled out one. “I suggest we use this to replace bulky wooden board with this in the office.”

Adelbert took the bamboo scroll. “This product is open to the public?”

“It’s cheap, and I have checked that it belongs to the craftsman guild.” Meinrad told them. “It has been sold since autumn, but already popular even among the masses.” 

Bonifatius leaned in, “Could this be sold to other duchies?”

Meinrad shook his head, “The main material to make this product is bamboo, and it’s  a plant that is abundant in many duchies… Lord Bonifatius, you could tell right away how it is made from one look, couldn’t you?”

“Yes… you just connected the slip with strings.” 

“Lady Georgine shows her insight, she is not just blindly monopolizing products produced in her faction. Bamboo scroll is versatile in terms of function, but it doesn’t hold much commercial value and exclusivity.” Meinrad shrugged, “If by spring conference other duchies start copying it, we have no grounds to claim ownership over this invention… After all nobody claimed so either after wooden boards became widely used as a cheap alternative to parchment.” 

Lord of Winter appeared in Haldenzel a few days later and Bonifatius led the knights to defeat it. It was harder than last year and Haldenzel's knight captain commented it must be because of Georgine's effort to let Flutrane’s blessing to flow once more. The Giebe knights however were not discouraged. They were all smiling even though the Wildaffe —the winter lord this year—was giving them all a hard time.

Bonifatius had mixed feelings about the look of joy and worship the provincial knights had for his niece. He wondered if they even remembered that Adelbert's heir was Sylvester, not Georgine. As if affirming her position in the hearts of people, Georgine arrived at the rear. Bonifatius almost fell over his high beast when he heard the news. Also… his subordinate reported it as good news with a smile instead of bad news that a non-combatant Bonifatius never gave permission to participate had intruded upon their subjugation. 

Georgine was not empty handed. He was about to reprimand her when he saw her aides were holding Leidenshaft’s spear and Ewigeliebe’s sword. Haldenzel’s lead knight came forward and accepted the sacred sword of God of Life from Georgine. 

“Uncle… I shall assist the subjugation by the grace of Gods. So let us pray… devote your prayer and mana to Ewigeliebe!” Georgine called out. 

“O’ Ewigelibe, God of life who governs death and rebirth, The twelve subordinate God who serve by his side. Hear our prayer and bestow your power upon us!

Unlike the prayer to Flutrane that sounded pleasant and exhilarating, the prayer to God of life felt confining and sharp to his ears. 

 “Please grant unto my hands, the power to protect my Geduldh as you protect her from those who wish to rob her from me. I offer to you this sacred behest, raising the ripple of supremacy. Bestow me with the chain of your protection, the power to keep enemies away! ” 

The sword was swung in an arch and then dozens of winter kins were summoned that clashed with Winter Lord’s subordinates. Bonifatius had no idea the sacred instrument had such power! Why didn’t they use it before?! He had no time to contemplate further as Georgine’s knight thrust the spear of Leidenshaft to his hand. 

“Lord Bonifatius, it’s your turn! Call upon Leidenshaft!”

Bonifatius did as he was told against his better judgement, including Georgine’s urging to dedicate more and chug his recovery potions in one go. He was completely defenseless because as he gathered mana, Winter Lord’s subordinates rushed towards him But a yellow dome shield fell over him. Then he saw it… his niece standing before Bonifatius holding shield of Schutzaria to protect him. 

The spear let out blue colored crackles of lightning as his mana filled every feystones, and he threw it with all his might at the distracted winter lord and just like that… its head rolled away from its body.   

“O’ brave knight of Ehrenfest… we have won!” Georgine declared, holding her shield high in the air proudly for all to see it gleaming under the clear sky. 

Then she dispelled it, revealing it to be a product of Getilt.. a second sacred weapon she formed with Schtappe. 

“How did you do that?” Bonifatius demanded, “The shield… it is real…” He had seen it for the second time, and as the shield was a tool of defense that repelled strong attack from winter lord’s subordinate, Bonifatius now could confirm it was not Georgine shaping a common shield to imitate Schutzaria’s. 

Georgine looked at him, smiling benignly. “Schutzaria blessed me with her power. She was the first to answer my prayers…no more, no less.” 

Then Georgine went around healing the knights and distributing potions, going as far as refusing firmly to take her part in the spoils from the subjugation. Instantly, the knights who witnessed her feat hailed her as the saint blessed by Schutzaria, patron goddess of Ehrenfest. Bonifatius was not happy with how ambitiously his niece elevated herself. 

At the rate she was going… She was putting herself above her own father.

Still… Everything she did was legitimate. She was indeed the Flutrane that healed their land and Schutzaria wielding her shield to protect Gedudlh. So it was painful to hear Adelbert, who was furious by Georgine’s unrepentant behavior, when he made his decision. “...I will demote Georgine to Archnoble as soon as she graduates.” 

As Georgine had finished her winter dedication, she was summoned to the palace to be informed of her demotion. They word it as informing her reward for the winter lord subjugation as to catch her unaware. Adelbert was never one for being the Ordoschnell of bad news. He hesitated so Georgine beat her father to it, saying. “Well, as I shall be Ordoschnell of good news I will say my announcement first…” 

Georgine’s smile was euphoric; she did not hide her joy, and Bonifaius was instantly on guard. “Father can expect Aub Drewanchel to see you at Interduchy Tournament as my thread has been picked up by Liebeskhilfe to be tied to his adopted son, Lord Hadrian of Drewanchel.” Georgine had the nerve to chuckle. “What news… Ehrenfest may welcome a very excellent son-in-law from a land even more splendid than Ahrensbach.” 

Now demoting her was obviously out of option. They’d been had by his niece. Again.

“Oh, and by the way… our good knights from Haldenzel insisted I take Wildaffe ’s feystones. I think uncle approved of that already, no?” 

Bonifatius, who was given a look by Adelbert just nodded. He did approve, besides after harvesting the fur, claws and what else the stones while valuable was not that big. Wildaffe  was a treasure trove of ingredients so it's feystones were not priced that highly. 

“I will give my courtship jewelry to Lord Hadrian as soon as I return to the academy. Ufu fu fu~” 

Wait- who is giving what to who?! 

The demotion was forgotten afterward for business talk. Georgine was quite vicious with her demand, and it was quite relieving in a way. She didn’t hide she had her eyes on Adelbert’s seat, and spurned Verbergen. She was an enemy in the open and abided by Gebordnung. 

Each of her words devoting herself to greater good of Ehrenfest never felt hollow in Bonifatius’ ears, she was being honest. So in spite of his suspicion in her method, Bonifatius felt he couldn’t be too harsh on her. Meinrad was as impeccable as always, their childhood friend turned minister handled the discussion with poise, reaping benefits from Georgine’s proposal but keeping her in check at the same time. 

Georgine left with a satisfied smile on her face, leaving chaos in the room Veronica was unhappy they had to compromise with Georgine at all. She too left, and the forgotten topic of demoting Georgine resurfaced. They gave it a few days and Georgine returned to the academy, meanwhile, Meinrad gathered information and the result was not in favor of her demotion.

“You can’t demote her now.” Meinrad pointed out. “Unless you wish to offend Drewanchel, and your lack of lesser wife and children would make it even more unacceptable to the grand duchy.”

“Didn’t we demote Veronica’s mother?” Bonifatius pointed out, earning a displeased glare from his brother. 

Meinrad cleared his throat. “The circumstances are way different… Lady Gabriele has many flaws for her station, low mana, adapting poorly in her new Geduldh and Ahrensbach themselves agreed she is ill suited to be first lady of an Aub.” 

“And what guarantee this… Lord Hadrian of Drewanchel would be any better? He is a lord marrying down!” 

“Lord Hadrian couldn’t be more different than Lady Gabriele, Lord Bonifatius.” Meinrad refuted. “This young lord is adopted by the first lady of Drewanchel, so obviously he is one of the best archduke candidates of Drewanchel in mana, academic and reputation.”

“Won’t he look down on our people.” Like Gabriele. 

Meinrad shook his head, “On contrary, he has made a spectacular rapport with our students in the academy. He protects our students from the more domineering Drewanchel students, offers compromise,and also very honorable in his dealing with students from lesser duchy.” 

“So he is good for a son in law?” Bonifatius asked. 

“As far as we know of him, Lord Hadrian is the ideal son in law any father with daughter want.” Meinrad concluded. “It’s not ideal for Lord Sylvester, but he is not the aggressive sort.” 

That was a blessing at least. 

“Be warned, Milord… Drewanchel is a meritocratic duchy. They would see no reason why Lady Georgine is not chosen over your son.” 

Adelbert was not giving up hope, he insisted he would try to refuse the young lord. Perhaps they could ask for assistance from Ahrensbach to resist Drewanchel’s interference in their succession issue. 

“..I just hope with so many duties she has, she won’t cause problem to Sylvester in the academy.” 

Bonifatius felt a lump on his throat once more, feeling disappointed in his brother but reminded himself of his promise to support Adelbert no matter what.

Notes:

I hope there's more to enjoy in this chapter, I make it extra salty.
Sylvester is actually doing not so bad in his winter room, but after the Georginian kids come out from their fun learning camp, it fall flat to them.
The blatant lack of discipline~
Willful behavior that lack 'dignity' of an heir
Also skipping classes-
He is the 'fun' older kid/big bro

Hence the huge disappointment in Georginian children for the winter room.

As for the last proposal of Georgine, she is trying to start a judicial system in Ehrenfest. She feign it as effort to punish excessive embezzlers and already know Vero will just sacrifice her goons. But it was a good start to get the ball rolling.

Chapter 9: Dregarnuhr's Mercy

Summary:

Georgine made further move in academy, mending the broken relationship and have some pep talk with her sister

Notes:

Sorry for the hiatus- we will try to update more but RL is really getting in the way.
Series of deadline and then... change of season means I got cold repeatedly.
Also I just moved closer to my office!
Hope you enjoy this chapter!

Georgine- Trends that Flow 

The social season started in earnest when she returned, and Georgine began her rigorous socialization schedule. It was a good calculation to just go back for a week, and Greifechan even rewarded her with the appearance of winter lord so she could show off her prowess to the Knight Order more. 

It was slow but steady progress embedding into the mind of their knights that she, a woman, was a strong leader they could rely on. She had to chip away Sylvester’s advantages as a man to gaining support from the Knight Order before she graduated. Georgine was not just courting a lord to be her husband, but also the Ehrenfest knights to serve her. 

Hence the ‘refreshment’ corner in the common room of their dormitory, which was reserved for their students. Everyone took to it quickly, especially the apprentice knights who were often tired after their rigorous practical classes. There were concerns for poison and the like at first, but that was easily solved by a poison detection circle embroidered into the tablecloth underneath.   

She also assigned attendants from all factions to be in charge of the station around the clock as part of their training. So if anyone tried to attempt anything foul, they would be caught immediately. Also, this was the Royal Academy so it was her call what to do with such mischief. 

“Good work, knights… feel free to partake in some refreshment.” She made it a point to greet the apprentice knight after they returned. 

Ritthaus, who was one of the knights returning, took his cue, “Lady Georgine, there’s no need to  trouble yourself with us.” 

Georgine smiled, “On contrary, is it not the duty of an archduke candidate to provide for our people so they could serve our duchy to the fullest? If anything I am ashamed to only notice this lack of care by my fifth year.” She glanced at her entourage. “And I expect you shall be my representative to provide the same care after I graduated.” 

“Of course, Milady.” 

She turned her attention back to the knight apprentice, “Enjoy, it's a light but filling meal to recover stamina.” 

Of course the knight apprentices were tired, hungry and thirsty so as soon as the attendants laddled in bowls of hearty soup full of nutritious ingredients they dug in happily. Even the more hardline Veronican students were softened by the soup that nourished both body and soul.

This too was something she took an example from her Mestionora, who had the entire orphanage falling all over themselves to make her happy. How their joy was always evident whenever Rozemyne rewarded their hard work with a warm meal by the end of the day. This was why she made it a habit to ‘feed’ her people safe and delicious food. 

Georgine turned around and asked, “Has the invitation been sent?”  

“Of course, Milady.”

“Wonderful.” This was her fifth year so not much time left for her, but she had to mend the tangled knot her parents made with their people. 

Georgine resisted her urge to frown when the invitees to her special tea party arrived, all stiff and alert as if they weren’t invited to a tea party but the den of Ternisbephalen. It didn’t escape Georgine’s eyes either, most of them were either wearing gloves or amulet on their wrist, nothing amiss if not for the dominant green and gold color feystones that signify purification and healing. 

Truly it was her misfortune to be born as their daughter and for Ehrenfest to have them as Supreme Couple. It was difficult to get permission for adult sovereignty nobles native to Ehrenfest to visit the academy, but she managed it by the newly found favor for Ehrenfest. It was just for three person, the rest was academy staff. She hoped they would be willing to be her Ordoschnelli and Anhaltung. Especially… Georgine locked her gaze with the elderly man at the center of the group, wearing monocle. 

“You all may be at ease,” she said with a grin. “All of the attendants are well trained, and since I am hostess, there shall be no heresy against Cuococalura today.”

There were a few nervous chuckles, and a small number of people relaxed. But the majority were still on their guard. They just hid it better.

“May I ask what the occasion is for us gathering today, Lady Georgine?” It was professor assistant Hirschur who asked. The woman was the niece of Norbert, one of the senior attendants of the castle. However, unlike her poised uncle, Hirschur was already developing a reputation as an eccentric genius.

She would be right at home amongst my people.

“I am sure you have received Ordoschnell that I have taken the post of Flutrane for our land, donning the color of Ewigeliebe like the Zent of old.” Georgine started with a smile, with no shame whatsoever she had taken the burden and cited the noble honor of emulating first Zent. “It’s most unfortunate the Chaoscipher, while weakened, is still gnawing on our Geduldh. I wish to draw support from my comrades in sovereignty…”            

A scholar Georgine recognized as a cousin of Ritthauz spoke up, “Of course we have heard of your noble sacrifice, but Lady Georgine… surely you know we’re chased away from Geduldh… and the Dark God hides behind Verbergen still, thinking that Chaoscipher is his dutiful light goddess.” Veronica was anything but, at best she gave away golds and favors to Ahrensbach to maintain that mockery of an asylum and gave birth to his children. 

“We have already been protected by Chaosfleihen. Simply bringing Flutrane isn’t enough. Why would we risk that protection without there being Verdraos?” An archnoble from a northern province asked.

Georgine spoke without reservation, “Because I shall be your Verdraos, Flutrane, and Schutzaria.” Her voice was even, stating it as a matter of fact. She would be everything their Aub was not. “However… I understand mere Grammatura’s honey is sweet but not filling, so I shall offer to be Greifechan.” 

Gudrun and her attendants passed around gift boxes with samples of the products that were trendy this year. 

“This must be the cleansing fluid the princess desires so much…”

“What a novel handkerchief! But still…”

There were murmurs in the crowd, but instead of being on the defensive they seemed to waver. Things were heading in the right direction.

“Let me cast away the trappings of Grammalatur and ask you this: how long do you wish for Ehrenfest to be called a rural duchy? For how long must we endure low rankings due to the ineptitude of those who rule our land?” 

Georgine looked into the eyes of every guest in the room. “I know what words you endure in the Sovereignty. Despite your talents and your efforts, the people who belittle our Geduldh also hold you back.” 

How demeaning it must be, to cultivate their talents to their peak and think they are to be acknowledged, only to be held back by their home duchy. They were the same, except for Georgine it was her gender. 

This was the reality of their native Sovereignty nobles, their duchy mocked as rural duchy because they failed to open up and show their true potential. Before it was due to unrest between new nobles ruling the new Ehrenfest and native from Eisenreich turned Ehrenfest, but in her grandfather’s era they were ready to integrate and be united as on Ehrenfest. If not for Chaoscipher named Gabriele, and they never recovered from her and Veronica who took the role of Chaoscipher that terrorize and divide Ehrenfest. 

“I am moving to change this, to heal Geduldh and bring her back to the glorious pillar she is meant to be. To do this I require your assistance as Ordoschnell and Anhaltung. And unlike my relatives, I will not demand this of you without anything in return.”

At last they didn’t seem like they wanted to bolt out from her proposal, truly Rozemyne’s advice to her was useful no matter how grating. “Speak from the heart, they’ve heard enough nonsense from your parents.” She knew how true that was, but it was still annoying to hear their archducal couple offer nothing but demand loyalty of those who had left Geduldh. 

“For those who wish to stay in Sovereignty I shall offer you support in terms of funds, novel projects and connections in return for being Ordoschnell. Those who wish to return to Geduldh to fight by my side, I shall offer you positions befitting of your ability as Anhaltung.” 

Hirschur predictably perked up at the first offer. “We’re barely receiving funds, but…surely you’re not richer than the duchy , Lady Georgine?” 

For that remark the other invitees glared at Hirschur, because that was inappropriate to say but Georgine had Rozemyne by her side. She had heard much worse from her Mestionora. “Perhaps my income isn’t bigger than Ehrenfest tax revenue, but nobody under my employ smuggles my gold into their own pockets, Hirschur.” 

Georgine was a very generous master, and although bribe was the norm in noble society Rozemyne heatedly argued it was the root of corruption. Their people should be paid enough befitting of their talent and contribution, and so no temptation to sneak Verbergen behind Greifechan. So she had worked hard to nurture a more ‘noble’ mindset and made use of the corrupt Veronican as a ‘foul example’ to abhor. Of course, her people took it to heart to be unlike Veronica’s minions. It wasn’t too difficult since her mother mostly employed incompetent idiots.

The eldest guest of the group, an archnoble of repute even considering he was from Ehrenfest, chose to speak even though he had been quiet until then. He was quite influential, seeing as all of the other Sovereignty nobles gave him their full attention. Georgine knew by instinct that what he said would drive the others one or another.

“There was a time,” he began with a deep, steady voice. “that I had hoped for the revival of our Geduldh. After decades of penance for slighting Gebordnung, it was beginning to seem that light was beginning to shine upon us.”

His imposing voice was clearly heard across the room, though it wasn’t raised. It was because everyone was so quietly listening. Georgine had an errant thought: if Daurleben could speak, surely he would sound like this.

“The dreams I dared to hold had ended into my summer, as our beloved Geduldh was plunged further into chaos, fading away from the disappointment like gold dust slipping through my fingers. Yet,” he smiled softly, “perhaps some of those hopes still remain. Perhaps so deep in my autumn as I feel the winter chill, I will be granted the opportunity to hope once more. So rather than to spend the rest of my days hiding in Chaosfliehen’s shelter, I may dare to place my hopes with you, Lady Georgine.”

The others, even Hirschur, had no further words of dissent or complaint. Or if they did disagree they hid it well. Instead they crossed their arms in deference.

“I assure you that you will not regret it.” Georgine replied seriously. She stood  up straighter, as if in response to the expectation placed on her shoulders.

That was an intense meeting and Georgine was glad that due to Solomon’s faith in her, the sovereignty nobles of Ehrenfest had begun to move to support their Geduldh. Solomon himself was planning to move back to Ehrenfest and be her scholar, which was very welcome to Georgine because his support was like the last piece of puzzle she needed to move to the next step. 

“Deliver the registration paper with care, Grausam.” This was their first reward, their very own Georginie Salon membership. She had to work hard to brew the card personally later, but it couldn’t be helped. The same magic that barred outsiders applied in their dormitory was still needed in her salon until the day their duchy united as one Ehrenfest under her banner. 

Grausam knelt in reverence. “Of course! Milady!” 

And off he went, Georgine couldn’t help but smile at piles of letters from the invitees stating their acceptance to come back to Geduldh. This would work wonders to the lack of human resource back home, and no doubt would please father. Until he realized their loyalty was to her and Ehrenfest, not him.  

Wonder if my father would ever realize he and the land he owns are no longer one and the same. Well… more of our people shall come to me due to his obliviousness. 

Georgine was glad due to her entry to the temple, many adult aides of her resigned. They were aides from her parents anyway, and they made good vacancies to be filled by her people. 

“It’s time, Milady.” Idalia announced, “Lord Hadrian would be very pleased if you doll up a bit…” She almost pleaded. 

Georgine was amused, “He had a taste for a woman blessed by boldness of Flutrane and staunchness of Schutzaria, I could be beautiful but not a weak flower.” 

“Of course Milady.” 

Her hair was styled more elaborately, her long hair let loose in the front with half updo tied in a topknot decorated with elaborately carved wooden haircrown. As for her dress, it was an elegant but very simple dress in black color with the most elegant sleeves Georgine had ever seen.Georgine spun a little and couldn’t help but frown a bit at [train] part of her dress, which was also another unique feature. The length of the dress was appropriate to her age before adulthood at shin length but it fanned longer at her back to the point it dragged to the floor. It was an elegant design but needed a cleansing magic circle added at that part. Rozemyne said it was inspired by some sort of celestial being’s costume, and all Georgine’s costume was designed with the theme of androgynous dark queen. Whatever that means…  

“The combination of embroidery and painted dye is amazing, milady…” Sighed Hildburg. 

“The elegance would give even Forsente at the height of autumn a pause!” 

The embroidery was a field of wheat under Forsente’s moon, which was a combination of painted dye that illustrated a vast golden field with close up of wheat ears embroidered vividly. A waist pendant attached to the dress depicted the moon, elaborately crafted with feystones in a color that reminded Georgine of Rozemyne’s eyes. This dress was inspired by the lore of Forsente’s moon, just before Schutzaria’s night when the subordinate of the wind goddess would have an audience with the Light Goddess that very night to offer the best harvest of the season. The moon’s color would become a more vivid gold to show the light goddess’ pleasure from the gift. 

It was also a guide for farmers to know their fields were ripe for harvesting as Forsente had made an offering to the Light Goddess. They often tracked the moon cycles to get the timing right each year. Coincidentally, the night after Flutrane’s night was the best time to start sowing due to ideally fertile ground.

When Georgine arrived in Drewanchel’s tea room, she once again confirmed that Bluanfah had danced for Hadrian. The Drewanchel lord was looking at her adoringly; he almost lost his composure, if not for his… lover Altaire nudging him subtly. 

Well, I have chosen him as the most fitting spouse, but…knowing he has a male lover does make me feel complicated about our future married life. 

Then again she had tolerated eccentricness to an unhealthy degree with Rozemyne around. Her Mestionora was more bizarre than her former scholar Justus, and that was saying something. Even a lord who loved both fellow lords and ladies was nowhere as weird as that book sniffing little girl. Which reminded Georgine to finish planning next year’s etiquette curriculum for Rozemyne so she would be presentable by the time of her baptism. 

But before that… she had to secure this Dark God first- or Light God, in her case. 

“Lady Georgine…” Hadrian breathed out as soon as their formal greeting was over. “You are like the Queen who rules the night. This dress was a work of Kunstzeal and Ventuchte, but it wouldn’t be the masterpiece it is without you.” 

Georgine smiled in response, “I am flattered, Lord Hadrian.” 

“Just Hadrian, please.” Then he went on and on with his praise. 

Etiquette dictated Georgine to stay still and basked in his flattering honey of Grammatura, but she was getting bored. She also was not amused when she caught Grausam and Sidonius subtly taking notes in their diptychs. Georgine hoped Hadrian was not setting a bad example for her aides. 

Once again he was nudged by Altaire and he at last stopped, finally introducing the familiar spread of snacks common in Drewanchel. A mix of compote and savory cheese.  Knowing that Hadrian would have this served, she had the chef make a loaf of fluffy bread, plain crackers, and two kinds of dip- sour cream dip and savory merill dip. 

“Oh, so this is the fluffy bread served in the music party that they talk so much about?” 

They brought a loaf and it was fresh from the oven before placed in time stopping tool, and they had it cut with precision. 

Hadrian looked like he resisted a moan as he took a bite of the bread slathered with their compote and cream cheese. “This is like a match sanctioned by Liebeskhilfe and Cuococalura… I am sure my adoptive father would wish to purchase the recipe.” 

“The recipe would be offered in spring, Hadrian.” Georgine promised. “Why don’t you taste other splendors from Cuococalura. Though, unlike the fluffy bread, these would still be held back in spring. They are treats just for you.” 

Hadrian’s cheek reddened, “Oh my, Georgine… you know how to pamper me.” He chuckled softly, “Then again, beneath the unforgiving rain of Flutrane and harsh wind of Schutzaria, there's a gentle shower and refreshing breeze.” 

Georgine wondered, Hadrian’s lips spoke honeyed words so lightly but she didn’t feel annoyed at all. Perhaps it was because when she looked him in the eye, she could feel his sincerity in his voice. 

“Dip, hm? This is a fascinating concept in the field of Cuococalura, I believe it would be a very popular snack for men’s socialization.”

“Oh?”

“The cracker is smaller than what we have in our duchy, and it frees our hand as we play games like gewinnen. I believe it would pair well with alcohol too… the shape wouldn’t be very appealing to ladies, but lords are less particular about this kind of matter.” 

Georgine nodded, “That’s a very helpful advice, Hadrian.” 

“It’s nothing. I am sure someone as brilliant as you would figure it out.” 

He meant every flattery he uttered to her and with fascination she could not miss. This man was an archduke candidate of higher rank than her, and he saw more than a prospective bride in her. It was like he studied her, and in his findings he saw a capable woman worthy of praise and so offered his honest appreciation. Nothing less nothing more. 

That girl Rozemyne was the same, always gushing about how “queenly” Georgine was. She couldn’t help but smile, thinking Hadrian and Rozemyne had the same lack of reservation in expressing their liking of her. After years of being told she was never enough by her parents, all this praise was hard to get used to.

Tea was changed and Georgine inhaled deeply before she gestured for her attendant to come forward with an ornate box. “For my…Light God God, this is my sincerity for you who accepts my darkness.” 

Hadrian’s attendant stepped forward to accept the gift from Idalia, and then had Hadrian inspect the gift. “Oh… this is…” 

Georgine wouldn’t admit it but she was never the most confident person when it came to Kunstzeal’s domain, and men’s courtship jewelry was… rare. There was no conventional design as men in general didn’t wear necklaces. Their formal engagement was so close, she couldn’t make the traditional bangle for men by next summer. It had to be a necklace, so the feystones could be swapped or upgraded with the one they exchanged during the engagement ceremony.

Unfortunately her aides weren’t helping much as Anhaltung on this matter due to the unusual circumstances in their courtship. Men’s amulet jewelry was usually bulky, but Georgine couldn’t see that fitting Hadrian at all. He had a delicate and slender neck, the conventional design for men would look out of place on him. Georgine refused to compromise with overly simple design. This man marry down as her consort and her gift would signal his living standard in Ehrenfest. She would be damned if Hadrian was mocked due to something she crafted for him being of poor quality. 

Rozemyne and Christine ended up being her Anhaltung instead. They came up with a design resembling the shield of Schutzaria, a simple ring pendant with an orb-like feystone hanging at the center. On the bottom of the ring, another chain connected to a small lion head pendant that represented Georgine’s archducal house. 

“How beautiful…” Hadrian breathed out, “How is it that I only discovered how strong your blessing of Kunstzeal is this year?” 

Georgine smiled stiffly, “I have messengers of Anhaltung in the matters of Kunstzeal,to be honest. With their suggestion too, I provide the other courtship jewelry inside.” Hadrian’s eyes widened as he lifted an earring of similar design and saw her subtlety glance at his male lover. “Ahem.” 

It was her way to express her acceptance of him and his lover. 

Before he could get all mushy over her ‘consideration,’ Georgine signaled a change of tea, the gifts were about to be taken away for safekeeping but Hadrian insisted on wearing the necklace right away. Georgine almost stammered her compliments as she wasn’t as gifted in flattery as he, but it did look as good on him as she imagined. 

“Now that our connection by Liebeskhilfe has been confirmed, let us discuss how Greifechan could fortify it,” she began. 

“Indeed,” Hadrian leaned forward, his demeanor changing from awed lover to competent scholar. “It will take more than Bluanfah for sprouts to grow into fruition. What do you have in mind?”

She had another attendant step forward with a box. “These are the trends I offer for your hand. A ‘groom's price,’ if you will.”

Inside was a premium color playing cards deck, the first ever male rinsham, and cravats in Ehrenfest dyeing style.

She explained how each one was to be promoted, and Hadrian was taken aback by how influential each item was. It was even more impactful because he would be the first man to promote the trends in gentlemen’s socializing.

“This far exceeds my expectations,” Hadrian practically beamed. “To think I would have the cleansing fluid too, and it would be for lords…”

“Why not? You are to be helping me improve it, after all. Becoming familiar with it is a key step of that process,” she answered with a grin. “I have also prepared some for my mother and father in law, so they would be more receptive to our courtship.”

The gifts for Aub Drewanchel and his First Lady were given via attendants.

“To draw Greifechan’s favor, I have also drafted the concept of a ‘salon franchise,’' she added. Georgine gave him a broad overview, with the details explained on the bamboo scroll given to his attendant. 

“Ah, this is a bamboo scroll. Our students has been eyeing this eagerly whenever students of Ehrenfest use it in the library to take notes.” Hadrian commented with a grin. 

Georgine shrugged, “It has no value for exclusivity, one look you can tell how to make them.” Georgine showed Hadrian how it could be ‘folded’ to be a book like stack, and also rolled. “Bamboo is abundant almost everywhere too.” 

“It’s quite a versatile product.” Hadrian agreed. “I shall have craftsmen in Drewanchel to start making them, but I don’t like taking this favor without proper compensation… hm. How about a copy of my doctor electives notes on bamboo scrolls?” 

That would be a great boon, Hadrian after all was also taking that electives and for more classes than Georgine did. The perk of meritocratic duchy with many archduke candidates, free time to pursue Mestionora.” 

“Very well, I accept.” She grinned, “Should our threads be brought closer, Drewanchel would be the first to be duchy to be graced by a salon. Would that be fair for us all, Lord Hadrian?”

He chuckled. “It is enough to make Greifechan blush at this opportunity. I am sure my adoptive parents would accept wholeheartedly. Then…should we host parties together so Ordoschnell will sing of our courtship for all to hear?”

It was her victory. Georgine grinned. “I would love nothing more.”

As the early social season started, they hosted events together to both spread the trends and to flaunt their courtship. They had to move quickly, as Georgine would be absent for a time to return for the winter Dedication Ceremony. The parties were a wild success. Lords and ladies alike were drawn to the novelties presented. The reputation of the two, which was low or nonexistent as individuals, began to soar as a couple.

“Truly,  Lady Georgine and Lord Hadrian are a well matched couple graced by Liebeskhilfe,” princess Satella sighed happily at one of the parties Hadrian hosted at Drewanchel’s tea room. The princess gazed at Georgine with an approving smile. That was a royal endorsement if she had ever heard one. 

The engagement was as good as set.

Constanze- Middle Child’s Dilemma 

She was not wanted. She was just a disappointment in the eyes of her birth mother simply for being born with the wrong gender. Of course, at one point Constanze had the same desire as Georgine, to show her worth and be the daughter they loved. However it was just not meant to be when she witnessed “education” given to her older sister. It clicked in Constanze’s young mind that this was not the life she wanted, she was afraid of pain and her heart broke watching Georgine suffer so, even if she persevered.

So Constanze played the obedient but average second daughter, performing just enough befitting of her status but nothing more. This conviction grew even stronger after their brother was born, and mother looked like she had won the world itself with Sylvester’s birth. 

What was the point of trying? Don’t you see, sister Georgine? No matter how hard we try… a daughter is worthless to mother and father.

Of course Georgine didn’t find Constanze’s lack of effort amusing, she berated Constanze for not doing better even though she could. Constanze couldn’t bring herself to hate Georgine for that, at best she was a bit scared. How ironic that perhaps Georgine with her scolding showed she was the only one who cared that Constanze was curbing her own potential. She was the only person who saw through Constanze’s careful act and saw her for who she was.

For the same reason, her elder sister cared about Sylvester’s future as the next Aub Ehrenfest. If Georgine had to step down, it had to be for the more worthy heir. For all her thorns, Georgine was an earnest person who was harsh on others but even harsher on herself. 

However that was not what their parents expected of the “perfect” heir. Sylvester didn’t have to do any hard work. He was perfect as he is because he was a son. 

As Sylvester’s lack of effort became more apparent Georgine tried to protest to father, enlightening him what a lazy and precocious child Sylvester was, unbefitting of his heir status. Constanze held a tiny hope that father would listen, but alas… father was the same as their mother. All he could see was a perfect male heir, and they as daughters could not compare. 

So Constanze did her best in her bridal training, dreaming of a life free from their parents…this suffocating family and duchy where she couldn’t breathe. All the while she watched Georgine being suffocated but still trying anyway. 

Constanze couldn’t help but feel bitter when her younger brother came to her for comfort. “Sylvester, you are a very good boy… don’t be scared. Sister Georgine is just a bit mad at you!” 

“Uhm! Sister Constanze is the best!” Chirped Sylvester. “After all you are very nice to me, unlike sister Georgine”

Was she nice? Constanze never said a word to correct Sylvester’s wayward behavior, he was her adorable and spoiled little brother who would be the next Aub of Ehrenfest. All she was doing was treating him like her parents wanted her to. Was it any of her business how Sylvester would grow up to be puppet Aub who would rule at the whim of her mother?

She just smiled at Sylvester who kept grumbling about how mean Georgine was. “Sylvester, don’t get too angry… you are the next Aub Ehrenfest, you have to be more… magnanimous.” 

“...I would be if only Sister Georgine was as nice as you.”

Constanze just gave Sylvester gentle headpat without responding to his criticism. Sylvester, sister Georgine is perhaps the only person in our family who still cares about your future as the next Aub at all… that’s why she scolds you so much and is not nice to you like you want. However, for this brother who was drunk since he was born by the honey of Grammatura, the sternness of Anhaltung was too bitter for him to swallow. 

It wasn’t like Constanze was totally devoid of affection for Sylvester, but he had enough affection as it was. Unlike her and Georgine he was “blessed” by their parent’s affection and care. She couldn’t help but feel that Sylvester didn’t need anything from her beyond playing nice to him. So she would give nothing more.

So she just ‘watched’ when Sylvester made a fool of himself, whining about not wanting to become Aub and attend classes too hard for him and later threw around his weight as the ‘next Aub’ proudly and demanded others to play to his whim. 

One day, Georgine began to change in a way that no one had ever expected. It was when their parents made the deplorable choice to send her away to Ahrensbach as the third wife. Even in Constanze’s eyes that was a cruel fate for her elder sister that worked so hard. No matter how desperate Constanze was to escape, she wouldn’t want to marry a man who was her father’s age! Why should Georgine be punished like this?

Constanze expected Georgine to go on the warpath. Or to withdraw inwardly, cursing her fate. What she did not expect, what no one expected, was for Georgine to enter the temple of all places.

“My word! I know that she seeks comfort from the High Bishop in private, but to go live there?!” Constanze’s head attendant Josefine said. “Should I send word to Lord Bonifatius to stop her? Surely he could make her see reason, or call your parents home before things get out of hand.”

Josefine was the closest person in the castle to Constanze, so Constanze showed some of her true nature to her, but not all. Luckily the attendant was not excessively loyal to the archducal couple and was not a spy. But Constanze never truly let her guard down.

“My, how shocking!” She put on the mask of a scandalized sister, but on the inside her mind was churning. 

What are you thinking, big sister? Georgine never does anything without a reason… Perhaps there is something hidden she is doing under the cover of the temple? I will do my best to support you from the shadows with what little I am able to do.

“Perhaps it is her way to organize her feelings before marriage,” Constanze told her attendant. “Anyone facing Jugereise would need solitude to prepare the heart to accept. Let’s preserve her honor and keep it under Verbergen’s veil, at least until our parents are home. If she doesn’t return by then, it would be up to mother and father to talk to her.”

Josefine covered her lips and her eyes shined with admiration. “You are such a kind and sweet girl looking out for your sister. I shall have everyone follow your will, milady.”

“I thank you ever so much.”

With that Constanze bought Georgine what time she could, and her sister didn’t disappoint her when it was eventually revealed that not only had she taken the mantle of High Bishop in that time, but she also had won over the support of northern provinces and the Leisegangs. Rather than crumble under the pressure of a cruel fate, Georgine went against her parents to carry forward her goal of leading Ehrenfest in a fashion never seen before.

As she watched her sister’s achievements and feats that followed, Constanze felt a familiar mix of admiration, longing, and envy. If only she could be like that… if only she was brave enough to withstand her parent’s’ anger and take on the mantle of Verdraos instead of hiding behind Verbergen until Chaosfliehen’s graced her. If only…

Such were her thoughts leading up to her second winter at the Royal Academy.

Georgine shone brightly in the academy, and Constanze began to comprehend how quickly Georgine’s faction grew in the younger generation. It was to the point their parents became pale. Almost all archnobles students wore their traditional dyed cloth somewhere in their academy uniform. A variety of rich patterns stood out against the solid color of black uniform with the embroidered decoration the rest of them were wearing. 

Constanze was quite embarrassed because the Georginians made the rest of them look like outdated fools who were left out of trend. Ironic, considering the dyed cloth was a traditional product of their duchy. She was a little better off as her sister did give her a hairband with a dyed trend; her attendants encouraged her to wear it just to save face in front of the royal family. 

Much to her surprise, the royal family showed interest in their dyed cloth trend. Georgine didn’t seem nervous or overly eager. She responded to their inquiry calmly, accepting the compliments gracefully without excessive humility. 

Georgine then did the unthinkable: she redecorated the dormitory and cleaned away every scrap of Ahrensbach’s decor that their mother loved so much. It was obvious what kind of agenda her sister spread. The decor encouraged patriotism to their own homeland, saying they should love what their Geduldh has to offer and not uplift foreign land. Constanze kept her head down and obediently showed submissiveness in public when Georgine asked her opinion, as if she agreed due to intimidation not free will. However, in her heart the changes were comforting.

I love the fresh smell of flowers and fruits wafting in our common hall more…

Constanze spent more time in the common hall after the redecoration since it became a much more comfortable place. There was even a refreshment corner for group study which was available for everyone to enjoy; it was nothing lavish, but the assortment of fruit infused water, teas, fruits and noust could be enjoyed by everyone. 

It was hard to resist not to take advantage, especially since many friendly upperclassmen would teach younger students regardless of faction and even lent study notes. The only stipulation was helping the upperclassmen write manuscripts onto bamboo scrolls, which was a new product of the Georginians. Perhaps it was the only original product available to the public. 

While she spent her days in a relative peace and uneventful pace, her sister was riding the wave of change. Constanze watched her “new” lead attendant metaphorically flailing to get Georgine under control, but it was no use because Rihyarda didn’t even know Georgine’s schedule since she wasn’t in Georgine’s entourage. 

Constanze continued pretending to be the meek middle child who didn’t even have the courage to ask Georgine anything. It was a small rebellion that Constanze enjoyed, being unhelpful to ever “loyal” Rihyarda who came under father’s order. 

In the end once again Constanze’s “unhelpfulness” bore fruit for her sister: a Drewanchel lord was courting her to be a son-in-law! Georgine was also requested to dye the royal princess’s dress! 

Looking at Georgine who shone even more brilliantly than ever, again Constanze couldn’t help but feel jealous and regretful. I want to do that too… I want to shine and achieve something for myself instead of holding back like this all the time…

Then an invitation for a tea party arrived from her sister discreetly when Constanze was relaxing in the common hall. A plate of small sandwiches was served as she ordered, but there was a napkin with words that her sister wished to see her for a tea party, the day after tomorrow when Rihyarda had a day off. If she accepted, she was to take a sip of her tea. To indicate refusal, she only had to ask for her tea to be refilled. 

She accepted promptly with a sip. 

The day of the party they had chosen the library as their meeting place. Georgine’s attendant led her to a secluded corner. There was a back entrance that connected to a garden, and Constanze was surprised to see a set of chairs and tables had been set up for an outdoor tea party. 

“Welcome, Constanze.” 

“Thank you for inviting me, sister…” She looked at the generous spread of sweets, including “prototype” she knew would only be served for interduchy competition. 

“Oh, they all look delicious…” 

Georgine chuckled softly. “As soon as you get out from under Rihyarda’s watch, you show your true colors…” 

She blushed, she couldn’t believe she made such a blunder. “...I can’t help it.” 

“Cream sandwich with various berries, enjoy.” Georgine gestured to the treats. “I had the chef add honey to make it even sweeter. You have a sweet tooth, after all.” 

Of course, her sister remembered. After Georgine taste-tested the food, Constanze took the bite-sized treats and almost moaned in delight. It was so sweet, and this soft, creamy texture that melted in her mouth brought a delight she never knew Cuococalura’s blessing could give. The fruits were sweet, sour, but also crunchy, giving contrast to the fluffy texture of the bread. 

“This is very delicious, sister!” 

“I am glad you enjoy it, the egg sandwich is more savoury but there’s also delicate sweetness in it.” 

The egg sandwich was also delightful, Constanze thought. 

“I see that Rihyarda is not doing very well in your entourage.” 

Constanze set her teacup down. “She isn’t really in my entourage. Rihyarda just needed the position of my attendant temporarily to be our parent’s Sehweit.”    

Georgine sighed. “What was father thinking, dragging you into this problem? “

“...It’s…it’s nothing new.” Constanze smiled weakly. “I am not bothered too much. Rihyarda does not neglect me to the point of causing problems for my apprentice attendants.” 

A soundproof tool was pushed between them and Constanze accepted it. Their talk had just truly begun. “Constanze, thank you for being my Verbergen in spring. While I did prepare some measures, if Uncle noticed my actions… Well, let’s say it’s for the best that he never came after me back then.”

She blushed, pleased by the praise. “I only did what I could siste! I can’t openly support you, but I do wish to see you overcome Glucklitate’s trial.”  

Georgine frowned at her. “That’s what you wish for me. What about yourself?”

“Pardon?”

“How long do you plan to endure hiding yourself beneath mediocrity?” Georgine asked grimly. “I understand this is also your way to protect yourself, but… you are Ehrenfest’s princess born of the supreme couple… not some mere third wife’s daughter. You shouldn’t need to sabotage yourself for survival.” 

Constanze looked down meekly. “I…” She could not refute, nor could she think of anything to say.

“But you are not wrong.” She snapped her head up at what Georgine just said, her sister smiled weakly. 

Constanze had never seen such sadness on her older sister’s face. The usual coldness and viciousness of Georgine was nowhere to be found in her eyes. 

“Our environment… our parents made you this way.” 

“Sister…” 

Georgine looked Constanze directly in the eyes. “There’s something really wrong with our parents if they feel the need to put us down to elevate Sylvester, don’t you think?”

Constanze didn’t answer but she couldn’t bring herself to speak. So she let her silence be a tacit agreement to what Georgine said. Constanze also thought she could be something more than a mediocre archduke candidate. She didn’t want to be Aub like Georgine, not in the least. But if she had the freedom Constanze also wanted to try inventing trends, getting higher grades, and making more connections… 

Yet all that wants was dampened by their parents. Effort and achievement was not rewarded but scorned. 

“Constanze, there’s no one but us here. You can speak up, you don’t have to lower your head.” 

She dipped her head once before looking up hesitantly. “...I do want to make more of myself, but I don’t have the protection of Angriff like you, Georgine.”   

“You haven’t even tried enough to see if that is true.”

“You are right,” Constanze clasped her hands together, “however watching what father did to you, how he approved mother’s proposal…” She trembled. “I know mother never valued us but I thought… I thought… even if we’re not as precious as Sylvester, our father would think of our happiness at least a little.” 

And that was Constanze’s greatest disappointment in her father and Aub.He would let them suffer for mother and Sylvester. 

“Constanze…” 

“At that very moment, I was completely depraved of Angriff and instead caught in the grip of Schneast. All I could think of was that I had to run from our parents.” 

“Is this the life you want to live?” 

She looked away. “There’s no other way for me to survive, is there? I am not as brave and resourceful as you, sister. My fate as the middle child had already been decided… to leave Geduldh through Liebeskuhilfe.” 

Georgine shook her head. “That’s not what I asked you, Constanze. I asked: is this the life you want to live?”

Of course not. Constanze’s head was already shaking before she caught herself, her heart answered negatively without hesitation. 

“I learned a very important lesson myself upon taking the High Bishop’s position. There’s no point in living if you can’t live your life the way you want, Constanze.” Georgine stated firmly. “How you are living your life now is a tragedy, and you know it. The worst part of it is how you are forced into pretending to play nice with Sylvester.”

That jolted Constanze. “I wasn’t… pretending.” 

“I would be the last person to judge you on that, Constanze.” Georgine smiled sadly.  “Because you have helped me, I wish you no ill will.”

“Sister, I…”

“I implore you to think about it Constanze.” Georgine said in conviction. “You still have time. You may seek escape through Liebeskuhilfe. However, if you are the little sister that I know you to be, you must be longing for the freedom I am enjoying at the moment.”

“...”

“This is your life . Think about it carefully. I hope you find your answer.” 

Chapter 10: Let Ordoschnell's Sing for Georgine

Chapter by Ashyko, Fey_Storyteller

Summary:

Chaoscipher's pawn attempt to muddy Flutrane's flow and blow smokes to Schutzaria's pure wind but Georgine is one step ahead with the grace of Mestionora and Chaosfliefe

Notes:

Hiya, long time no see!!!

Georgine- Preparation

In the library you shall find wisdom, and Georgine promised to check the royal academy in its entirely for her cute little girl. The underground library was part of it and she was pleasantly surprised that Drewanchel’s courtship involved intellectual pursuit, which was much more pleasant than anything she ventured with her previous fiances. 

So she made her way to the underground library, it brought a smile to Georgine’s face, thinking how jealous her little Mestionora for Georgine’s freedom to access this wonderful place. 

“Georgine.” Called Schwarz. “What would you like?” 

Georgine looked at the automaton, and was reminded of their ‘strange’ commentary when she first came to this place. “What do you think of my attributes and prayer now?” She asked. 

The shumil comply. “Not enough attribute! Not enough prayer!” It declared. 

Georgine narrowed her eyes, “Hm… just how much prayer do you deem ‘enough’ I wonder, would you say otherwise if it’s Rozemyne?” She murmured to herself. “I wish to know more about blessings and prayers… oh, and also divine instruments.” She told the automaton.

She was not disappointed by the wealth of wisdom of their forefathers, as she had found the ‘spell’ for the Goddess of Light’s crown. It was a ritual to crown Zent and the crown of Light Goddess shall bind the new Zent with promise to prosper and guide Yurgenschmidt in service of King and Queen of Heaven for all eternity. The euphemism was so old but Geogine believed the crown served as an instant magical contract, or rather under the crown one had to go through with their oath of being burned by the Queen of the heavens. 

Didn’t Rozemyne want every criminal to be judged in [court] with witness and evidence, swearing oath to Gods to be just and honest? This crown could achieve exactly that and one day- “Fu fu fu… just imagining Veronica under the crown of the Light goddess she is so proud of and squirm in fear makes me all giddy.” Georgine powdered some feystones, regaining her calm. 

Her mana sense picked up his presence and Georgine composed herself. 

Lord Hadrian arrived a bit later, and saw her surrounded by piles of parchment and several tablets carefully placed in the lectern for her perusal. His smile bloomed, “Lady Georgine, if I was not to be your consort in Ehrenfest am sure you would be at home in Drewanchel. My duchy would welcome you with open arms.”

“Perhaps I would consider it in the past, but my Geduldh is still precious and even more so now.” Georgine returned his smile as the automaton brought her the requested materials one by one. 

The underground library was also a perfect place to hold a private conversation; it was secluded and while other archduke candidates had access their entry would be announced. 

“So what are you looking at here, my Dark Goddess?” 

Georgine didn’t resist smirking at him, “The result of my accumulated effort for the past years…” 

Ancient language was not part of Ehrenfest’s archducal house education, however they had several scholars from long lineage of Eisenreich who still had the skill. So when Georgine learned about the existence of an underground library in the academy she saw an opportunity to gain skills and knowledge that could help her to be Aub. She had a teacher hired to teach her ancient language in preparation for her efforts. It was only after she enrolled in the academy that she knew the specific era where the most useful knowledge was recorded, so she had her teachers focus on those instead of learning her way from the most recent era backward. 

Predictably Rozemyne begged Georgine to teach her so she could read older material in the temple's book room as soon as she learned Georgine could read ancient texts. Unfortunately for Georgine, Rozemyne’s drive for Mestionora’s blessing was unmatched and she would soon run out of things to teach. So Georgine learned ancient language more rigorously just so she didn’t lose her dignity as Echwarlehren for the young girl. 

It was also beneficial for her to read the scripture of High Bishop fluently without the ‘notations’ Uncle Bezewanst left. I am glad uncle found his life calling with his new business… he is more blessed by Greifechan in illicit business than anywhere else. He was independent now, so he didn’t have to cower or worry about Veronica’s help. 

This empowered her uncle to hand over all evidence of crimes that could be connected to Veronica. Though of course Georgine had taken measures to ensure that in the future her dear uncle would be viewed as an innocent pawn manipulated by his cruel sister rather than an accomplice. 

Which was really the truth, her uncle had a head for underground business, but for political scheming it was all Veronica. Georgine started to see Sylvester in his uncle of all people, a lovable but gullible person. Uncle didn’t have any protection from Veronica, she supposed to be his support, the one he could expect unconditional love from after he was abandoned. Yet, she twisted his nature to her liking and promised conditional affection while keeping him in the dirty temple. 

Hadrian’s voice snapped Georgine out of her musing. 

“Georgine… this underground library is almost as private as a hidden room. Do you mind if I do not dance with Grammatura here and… inquire about something that might make you rethink our match?” Hadrian asked almost nervously, but there was a firm determination in his blue eyes. 

Georgine straightened her posture. “Feel free to ask Hadrian, but whether or not I answer is at my discretion.”

“Of course.” Hadrian agreed easily. “There is no point in this if you didn’t answer me willingly anyway.” He smiled sadly. 

She frowned. “What is this inquiry of yours that troubles you so?” 

He inhaled deeply, “In Drewanchel, it’s all about competing in pursuit of Mestionora. We solve our conflict and strife with wits and nothing else… just like how Dunklefelger does with their ditter.” 

Oh. Georgine understood right away what Hadrian was getting at. It seemed the Veronicans decided to learn from her and smear her reputation so Drewanchel would rethink the engagement. However she didn’t choose wrong in Hadrian. He didn’t arbitrarily decide she was not worthy of him, but confronted her first to hear her side of the story directly.

“Did you really resort to poisoning your political rival, you full-blooded little brother, for Aub’s seat?” Hadrian asked, looking her straight in the eye. His voice was even and his expression nonjudgmental. It was a straight inquiry that was neutral until an answer was received.

Georgine didn’t waver, and responded earnestly. “...I did. I am not proud of it, but I cannot deny my past.” 

Hadrian’s shoulders seemed to sag in relief, “At least you regret it now… but why would you do that? You are such a hardworking person. Even in previous years before we met, you were proud Dark Goddess. You… didn’t seem to be the kind of person who would give up on honest competition and resort to malicious poisoning for your ambitions.” 

Indeed, her drive to work hard was forced upon her at first. However it became ingrained in Georgine to give her all and work hard for everything she wanted. So why did she do that? Even the smearing campaign she did was quite “fair” because there were no lies about Sylvester. Anyone would know how lazy and incompetent Sylvester was. It wasn’t like her parents were doing a good job in hiding Sylvester’s ‘free spirit’ disposition. One just had to work in the castle during one of his ‘boring lesson’ days and found the heir of their duchy running away from class. 

“Because there was no fair competition back then…” Georgine decided to be honest. If she still wanted a relationship with Hadrian she had to, especially if they were to be on equal footing. “This is no secret anyway, and by next year you would see the ‘heir’ my father approved of.” 

Hadrian frowned. “Your brother must be a prodigy to be able to be chosen as heir at such a young age.” 

Of course Hadrian would assume so, he was a lord hailing from a grand duchy; only talent may justify the madness of making Sylvester heir upon his baptism. “Sylvester is a lazy, free spirited and boisterous boy who loves nothing more than escaping his tutors and knight escort to go play outside.” Georgine described Sylvester succinctly. “He is not a complete fool, but any tutors of his would honestly remark his lack of motivation and drive to do ‘boring’ lessons…” 

Her fiance’s eyes widened in shock, “Wait- he… is nine years old and about to enroll in an academy by next year, right?” 

“Well yes, my parents want him to have a ‘happy and carefree’ childhood.” Georgine didn’t resist rolling her eyes. “Whereas I was the firstborn, since I was old enough to learn my letters I have been awakened from the first bell at the latest to start my lessons and sleep quite late.” She went on and on, how she would be hit for slightest mistakes, her voice became hoarse from reading out loud so much, “I often got nosebleeds and fevers from stress… and they would just give me potions and a bit of rest before my routine repeated…” 

Hadrian had become frozen, obviously not expecting her to reveal so much. However she wanted this relationship, and thought he would find out sooner or later anyway. It wasn’t her weakness, it was just the wretched pattern her thread made in the hand of her parents. 

“Why the harsh education just… to you?” He probed.  

Georgine smiled, “Because I am a daughter, not a son that could solidify my mother’s position as one and only first lady at the peril of my duchy.” Georgine explained simply her uncle was older than her father, and her cousin had been a male archduke candidate threatening her mother’s position. Hence the need to make her exceptional to trump against her male cousin for Aub’s seat. 

“It was for your mother’s sake?!” Hadrian was shocked, obviously where in Yurgenschmidt you would find such nonsense?

“Where would you find a monogamous Aub otherwise?” Georgine asked back, “As ashamed as I am to admit it, this is our reality… My father is Aub who prioritizes his wife’s happiness at the peril of his duchy.” 

Hadrian exhaled softly, “...I believe the cloak of Dark God is too heavy to escape the mischief of Liebeskhilfe, especially with Geboltnung is at stake… is it not the norm?” 

Why would one be Aub if they wanted to be monogamous and their marriage would be constantly be under severe gaze of Geboltnung? If Adelbert wanted to keep Veronica alone, being a mere minister would have ease the pressure on both him and his light goddess. 

Which she agreed wholeheartedly, “Unfortunately, the light goddess value her crown above all else.” But Veronica wanted power too so father had to be Aub for her happiness.

Hadrian looked at her in the eye and said the words she had only ever heard from Rozemyne. “...Anyone in your place would feel wronged, and if Chaoscipher tempted you, no one would blame you. However you escaped her twisted loop, you broke free from Chaoscipher’s temptation. That is commendable, an achievement a lesser period could never achieve.”

Indeed she did—at least for most part. Georgine still felt the urge to make her parents pay but it was never for herself any longer. She wanted to be Gebotordnung and Verdraos to their Chaoscipher. 

“Why did you change?” 

Georgine blinked owlishly at that, “Why… hm, because I found my Flutrane and Mestionora in the temple.” 

“You never told me why you were in the temple in the first place before becoming High Bishop.” Hadrian leaned in curiously, ever a Drewanchel. 

She chuckled softly. “...My maternal uncle was an unfortunate person who, due to family feud, ended up in the temple as previous High Bishop and I will not hide it from you as you will meet him upon our engagement. He is the sweetest old man… perhaps the only blood related family who even tries to sympathize with my pain. He is retired and so much happier now…” 

“Did he suggest you take his place, Georgine?”

“Goodness no!” Georgine laughed at that, “My uncle is always happy to see me, but he would always get nervous for my reputation. Like any other noble child who fell to the temple, he sees his own life as beneath mine… I half-forced him to give his position up to me, promising him I would be happy to do it, which I am!”  

Hadrian frowned. “Why would you be happy to be the High Bishop? I did hear your beautiful song about Geduldh…but I can’t fathom that happiness you speak of.” 

“That’s understandable.” Georgine admitted, “However the truth is… the work of the High Bishop is so fulfilling. I see more of my Geduldh than I have ever dreamed of. I pour my soul and mana into the land and see my people’s joy. At the same time, I also see devastation caused by my parent’s selfishness… the strife caused by factional instability, how wounded Geduldh became.” 

This too was no secret. Her father was known to be a sickly Aub (which was a contradiction in itself) in a monogamous relationship. Nobody cared enough about Ehrenfest until now, but one needed neither Mestionora’s nor Anhaltung’s blessing to see that Ehrenfest was not fine under her father’s reign. Ehrenfest was the duchy born from the great duchy of Eisenreich with the largest land of a middle duchy, and yet they had fallen so far to the bottom rank and mocked for being a rural duchy. It was that obvious. 

“Before I wanted to be aub because that was the only goal I was told to think about. In my ambition I gave my all to strife like my mother had taught me. Now it is different. I want to be the Dark Goddess, Flutrane, and Gebotordnung for the sake of my people… I want to save them. I am still an ambitious person,” she smiled wryly, “but at least my ambitious are channeled in a more honorable direction.”

I would rather die than turn into my mother. Though it is not like my brother would have the guts to kill me if that was my fate.

Hadrian looked at her long and hard, as if gauging her sincerity. She looked at him back, unwavering. Georgine knew her feelings for Geduldh were very real and indisputable. After a long while, Hadrian nodded and a smile at last bloomed again on his lips. “I understand my Dark Goddess. I shall support you with my light. I will support you in saving your Geduldh that would soon be mine as well.”

It surprised her that Hadrian was not just a frivolous lord, but was more steadfast and discerning than she had thought. Georgine was genuinely moved. It was not the dance of Bluanfah, nor the signs of a raffel. It was like… Ewigeliebe finding comradeship in Ewaermen, a solid friendship that brought comfort for one who was enduring in cold solitude for a long time.

They exited the underground library with him escorting her gallantly back to the dormitory. Georgine then ordered Grausam and Sidonius to keep closer eye on Veronica’s Ordoschnell in the dormitory. They swiftly did damage control on her ‘poisoning Sylvester’ scandal. She didn’t want to ‘hide’ it, just like she didn’t wish to hide it from Hadrian. Instead have it buried in more sinister truths, to the point the public understood her actions. 

Why seek Verbergen when you could use Anhaltung’s light to expose the insidious secrets of your enemies? 

A few days later, an Ehrenfest student was “caught” trying to put poison in their refreshment corner in their common hall, and judgment was made to have him and his accomplices expelled. She also had her Leisegang aides spread this was ‘common’ happening and how those followers of the first lady strike again. Whether or not Georgine ever poisoned Sylvester became less interesting after it became known some students wanted to smear her reputation by poisoning fellow students, staining her kindness with malicious intention. There was a bit of frenzy of Ordoschnell over this, she even heard some speculation that Sylvester’s poisoning was actually Lady Veronica’s attempt of poison resistance training that went wrong. 

Just like that, she was once again an honor student with a solid reputation, if not pristine.

Not only that, Hadrian sent her boxes of gifts to express both his concern and love for her. The flood of gifts to Ehrenfest was basically an announcement that their engagement would go through unimpeded by her past. Georgine took her time to write a thank you letter. She also pondered which of the gift she should share with her dear Mestionora back home. 

Unfortunately while there were romantic gifts, Drewanchel also send her some research materials as gift she didn’t know what to do with. There was a letter that Hadrian would explain on one of their dates. Never the type to sit still, she had her scholars analyze them so she would have done her homework for the next time they met. That was the minimum expected of a Drewanchel’s mate, after all.

Georgine now understood the joy of ‘flaunting’ harmonious relationships, and Hadrian was a master of it. Of course most of their outing together wasn't just for pleasure, it was half business as well. He was also reporting the progress of improving rinsham; it turned out the ‘oil’ and scrub could be improved by watching the parameter of attributes in the mix. 

“As you suggested we tried noust, zest of citrus fruit… salt, and crushed seed for the scrub.” Hadrian’s frown deepened, “Actually I find that using lye you suggest really works wonders. You say that this is from the soap commoners use?” 

Georgine nodded.  “That’s the ingredient for our soap base, ash left behind from burned firewood… we are still trying to figure out how to make it foam better.” As the temple also used high quality soap, Georgine was puzzled why Rozemyne picked something from commoners, but it was indeed better since it was a stronger ingredient. 

“Well it’s a good soap base… and it’s neutral attributes so I can adjust the composition even easier.”  Hadrian smirked. “We would be able to present royal quality rinsham by spring conference.”

Georgine’s smile widened, she understood what Hadrian was getting at. This way Prince Satella and perhaps even the second queen might demand them be called to attend the spring conference, at least for a day. It would be a boon for her reputation and chance to promote her salon plan even further. Aub Drewanchel would see the appeal as the first land outside of Ehrenfest to have one. 

“Wonderful. I shall not waste Greifechan’s blessing that you given me.” Georgine could already think of several “spa” treatments popular in her salon the first Lady of Drewanchel could enjoy. 

When the pair wasn’t researching cosmetics, they just spent leisurely outings together. Hadrian didn’t hesitate to have Ritthauz to sit down with them as resepresentative of her future second husband so they could get to know each other. Being a stiff and less sociable person, Ritthauz had little in common with Hadrian. But her future first husband was not discouraged. So  after much prompting, Ritthauz voiced his desire to improve their ditter ranking (also her older brother's agenda) for Ehrenfest, which reminded Georgine. 

“You see, dear Hadrian… I am looking for God’s blessing that would bring us to victory in ditter.”

“Oh?” 

“Drewanchel always wins in pursuit of Mestionora, but ditter is the domain of Dunklefelger.” Georgine began challengingly, “But who says the niece would never win against her uncle for she holds all the wisdom and blessings to win the war?” 

Hadrian’s smile widened, “That’s… a very intriguing prospect and considering we only have this year and next, I’d like to see my duchy win at least once in ditter.”

“Fu fu fu… believe me, we would make Angriff so proud to smile upon us over the land of fire.” 

Georgine - Interduchy Tournament

“Congratulations, Lady Georgine… as milady has planned. Today you would be the best fifth year student!” Grausam could barely contain his excitement, her scholar had been quite giddy since the intel traveled to their inner circle. 

Georgine too was excited, she would receive the highest honor for a student from Zent himself before everyone else. Hadrian also had congratulated her early, almost sheepish he was beaten by her this year. She would be his spouse in a higher position, and she wouldn’t shame him or Drewanchel for agreeing to this match. 

She descended from her room, and looked around their common room that had been transformed to a room worthy of Ehrenfest. Of course their tea room also received the same treatment, colored in ochre color of Schutzaria. They also had a gigantic puzzle of Ehrenfest and her provinces hanging on the wall, glittering due to the paint mixed with gold powder. 

Puzzles were one of several educational toys Rozemyne had made in her workshop, and Georgine wanted it to be the centerpiece of their dormitory the moment she laid her eyes on the prototype. There was not much else that could be done for their dormitory at the last minute aside from the decorations she had moved from the temple to decorate this room and their space in the interduchy tournament. She will do more next year. 

“Aub Ehrenfest and Lady Veronica are here.” Ordoschnell arrived to inform them. 

Georgine waited for them patiently like a dutiful daughter, and she was very pleased to see shocked looks on her parents’ faces when they saw how different their dormitory was now. The surprise on Veronica’s face soon changed to fury at how the dorm wasn’t the miniature Ahrensbach she wanted it to be. 

“Georgine, what have you done to the dormitory?!”

“Why, I just redecorated it with some of the culture our duchy takes pride in. The tea room had been similarly redecorated, and had received high acclaim from other duchies.”

Her mother looked like Loemberg on the verge of eruption, but there were too many eyes on them. So Veronica swooned on her husband’s shoulder to garner empathy, and the three of them moved to a meeting room for a private conversation. It took a lot of effort for Georgine to hide her disgust.

“Georgine, why did you change the dormitory without our permission?” Her father asked.

Georgine tilted her head. “It is to my understanding that what happens in the academy is at the discretion of the students, is it not? I do not see the problem.”

Veronica mysteriously regained her energy. “Remove those hideously arcane things at once! Do you not know why Ehrenfest is called a rural duchy? Put back the more elegant decorations before anyone else sees such things!”

“I am afraid I cannot do that. The old Ahrensbach themed decorations are stowed away at the castle,” Georgine reported with a smile. “And do not worry, mother. To the contrary, our decor has not been called rustic or rural at all. It would seem that Ehrenfest’s natural, original beauty has been hailed as trendy of late. Perhaps it is time to embrace our culture and let Ahrensbach have theirs?”

“Georgine,” her father warned before she went too far. 

In the next day the decorations were there to stay, at least until the end of the Interduchy Tournament. Afterwards…it was likely that Aub Ehrenfest would acquiesce to Veronica’s whims if no other action was taken.

I’ll have to think of countermeasures. This is Ehrenfest, not Ahrensbach.

*

Georgine greeted the professors she and Hadrian recruited for the day. Hirchur looked like she was about to vibrate on her feet from excitement, and while Professor Gundorf seemed calm there was no hiding the mad glint in his eyes. Georgine was so glad she decided to take this one for Rozemyne, that girl would be kidnapped by these mad devotees of Mestionora otherwise. 

Her little girl wouldn’t mind if they were librarians, but Hirschur and her fellow… mad researchers were something else. 

“Professors, as envoys of Echwarlehren it’s an honor to work with you. Thank you for your participation today.” 

Professor Gundorf replied, “It’s too quick to thank us, Lady Georgine. It’s also our pleasure to participate in this world changing presentation.” 

As Hadrian promised, they had professors and assistant professors who would love to be here. “Even so, considering Ehrenfest’s humble position… it’s still an honor to have you, professor.” 

“Do not mind.” The professor leaned in really close. “I am especially interested in the conclusion that says, we have not reached the limit of our mana vessel… the implications! The vast prospect of our future generation with this research is immeasurable!!! Ho ho ho!” 

Indeed this was a presentation that changed the “limits” of mana compression and Georgine knew the most important thing for nobles regardless of age and status was the possibility to increase their mana. This was her chance to present research that would elevate Ehrenfest and herself to the main stage on Yurgenschmidt. 

She was not disappointed to see the only grand duchy of Drewanchel from upper ranks attended this presentation in the morning, after all she had scheduled it twice for morning and afternoon. There were several lower duchy and middle duchies allies she made, including Frenbeltag lord Constanze courted. 

“Today we will show you how to surpass the known limit of mana compression, and it’s not by new compression method, but by increasing your comprehension about the process… first of all we have several volunteers we have recruited and the professors in charge of these fundamental classes.” 

Just like in compression class, the professors explained their personal compression method. Knight Professor from Dunklefelger being the worst at it by saying they just had to push the mana in. Then finished by warning not to do too much since it was dangerous but also to push themselves or they wouldn’t be able to achieve anything. 

Sound enhancement tools were passed to the students, and asked their opinion about the explanations given by the professors. They hesitated but Georgine encouraged them kindly, giving her all to imitate the gentle voice Rozemyne used when she would teach her grays how to read and write. 

“Please be honest, this is part of the process that would aid not just you but also the  future generations.” 

They nodded and began to say, “I don’t understand what the professors are saying.”

“The warning scares me, but I am also afraid there’s no compression of mana at all.” 

“I am confused whether I should give it my all or restrain myself.".” 

They were first years from various duchies, and the teachers had marked them for “barely” passing the compression class. 

“Well then… first let’s give visual aids to our professors.” Georgine said, signaling her attendants to come forward with carts filled with various boxes. They had pots, fruits, wooden cubes, feathers and many more. “Professor Heracles… for your compression method of ‘pushing mana within you,’ we prepared this pillow case and feathers… think of the feathers as mana and the case as your vessel.” 

His explanation was the simplest but also not the easiest to understand, then again he was a professor from Dunklefelger. 

“Very well! I am no attendant but I shall do it.” 

And began stuffing the case with as many feathers as possible very roughly. Georgine saw an attendant course professor who looked indignant by how the man treated the pillow, some feathers flew all over him. “Come on! More and more… ha! This pillow can contain more than it looks!” The professor then stopped. “This…” He looked at the students, “See! This is how I do it! Push the mana!” 

One of the students looked at him closely and closed his eyes. “I- I can do it!” His mana is measured and indeed his compression rate was so much better. 

More professors rushed to their respective aid tools. “See- cut the fruit and squeeze the fruits- then throw away the peel and just take the juice which is your mana!” 

“See this inorganized blocks, stack it neatly and it could fit in your vessel!” 

The success rate of compression rose exponentially but soon several students ran to difficulties, which Georgine had observed among their freshmen. The difficulty of unaided mana flowing from their vessel. First year’s classes used a very minimal amount of mana, and some classes like high beast formation made use of pre-dyed stones. 

“Those who have difficulty controlling the flow of mana, come here please…” Georgine personally unveiled this particular tool and revealed the beautiful chalice of Geduldh. “This is the sacred chalice of the Earth Goddess, Geduldh.”  As expected the mad researchers came running at the sight of a divine instrument but Georgine already had her knights and scholars halting them.  

“No need for empty feystones, just touch the chalice.” 

The students whose mana was leaking touched the chalice hesitantly, then her eyes widened. “I… I can feel my mana flow into it really smoothly, it’s very comfortable.” 

This too was something she only realized after becoming High Bishop, the sacred tool was an excellent aid to learn mana flow. Each divine instrument had a unique characteristic when it came to mana dedicated to them. The sword and spear were the most greedy with its rapid drain. Geduldh’s chalice was the most gentle, accepting any amount given and even provided the giver comfort as they dedicated mana. 

“Now practice as you dedicate mana to the Goddess of Earth, her chalice will guide you.” 

They took turns offering their mana, and followed Georgine’s advice to remember the feel of their mana flowing onto the chalice, but this time within their vessel. This time their compression was a success, and they felt comfortable with their newly condensed mana too. 

Georgine started her conclusion and saw all eyes were no longer glazed over, and they took this presentation very seriously. 

“There’s two hurdles most common in mana compression most first years faced. As you can see, number one is none other than the lack of comprehension with just ‘verbal’ instruction. However, with both visual and tactile aid it would be much easier to comprehend how to compress mana within your vessel.” 

The professors also gave their testimony, some even say by doing it with their hands directly they felt their mana even more compressed than before. The professor from Dunklefelger even recommended using aid for their own compression, not just for teaching. 

“Second, is mana control. Many noble children have no experience controlling mana within and so… as compression requires conscious control of moving mana on a large scale within your body, more often than not the body receives a shock.” 

Professors supported this, and they had taken this issue as some sort of “rite of passage” for compression; however Georgine’s research turned this perception around. It was possible to practice the skill safely. If there was an aiding tool such as Geduldh’s chalice. 

Aub Drewanchel then asked a question in person instead of instructing an aide to speak on his behalf, which surprised even Georgine. “How interesting the ‘aid’ tool you used is none other than Geduldh’s chalice. If blue priests and shrine maidens offer their mana periodically to these sacred tools from a young age, does it mean they are more skilled than first years in mana control?” 

This of course caused an uproar. The blue robes were inferior noble children for failing to live up to the standard set for their birth station. For Aub Drewanchel to say this… Georgine smiled, very pleased by Anhaltung's and Greifechan’s grace. 

“Actually… Today I have aides with me who were raised in the temple. Why not test them directly?” 

She had several young blue robes in the temple interviewed in summer. While most had no to little education, some of them were studious enough to teach themselves. The most exceptional was a young blue priest a year older than Georgine named Marius. He agreed to work hard to enroll in the academy under Georgine’s patronage with one condition: for Georgine to sponsor his lover, Galatea, who took the knight course. Their wish was to tie their stars officially as nobles. 

It was an expense worth spending as Marius worked hard in his first year and would take off season classes next year with Galatea to jump to third year. Galatea was average but she still came up to standard when she tried hard enough. So Georgine had considered promoting talents buried in the temple through them. She had thought to not do so this year, but unexpectedly the chance was presented to them. 

Professors began testing their compression, and this time looked really closely with magical tools to measure compression and mana flow within them.  

Assistant Professor Hirschur gasped, “Their mana flow is very smooth and controlled! Their compression rate is also above average!” 

Professor Gundorf nodded. “True… and how about their mana capacity then? I am ever so curious, considering blue robes are known for not having enough mana for their birth status.” 

More magical tools for examination were brought out. Galatea and Marius started to shoot nervous looks at her direction. Georgine gave them an assuring nod, they were doing a fine work and need not to feel anxious. The professors began asking questions such as their age and rank to get an accurate reading of their mana capacity standard, which was answered confidently by Marius and very nervously by Galatea. 

The result of course was… very surprising. They were both measured on the lower end of archnobles their age. Both were mednoble by birth, but now they had mana above their status. 

“The compression is easy. I just feel a bit heavy, like comparing between wearing our usual blue robes and our ceremonial robes.” 

“Yes, Lady Georgine taught us compression and made us find ways that suited us best.” 

Marius then explained: mana to Geduldh’s chalice would come out as liquid and then he could easily follow any compression method that likened mana to liquid like Hirschur or Profesor Lerato’s fruit’s juice method. 

Of course more questions were raised, and while many were amazed by the potential the neglected blue robed children could hold, many nobles with an inferiority complex sneered, sarcastically saying that blue robes “could be good nobles” if given the chance. 

“Considering the origins of the temple, it should come to no surprise.” Georgine began with a smile. “Our first Zent was High Bishop according to history, no? These children were made to wear only blue robes, and no other color… why is that?” 

Aub Drewanchel answered again. “It is the noble color of Leidenshaft, who leads Geduldh’s children to grow and aspire to reach the blue sky… whose pantheon consist of Glucklitat, Anwachs, and Echwarlehren…” 

Truly the real support of a grand duchy’s Aub was marvelous. “Correct. In the past, the blue robes were a prayer for children born with low mana to grow. They learned under the auspices of the Gods to become gifted nobles... The temple is a place of learning and growth. In Ehrenfest the temple  is returning to its roots of old under my leadership as High Bishop. The full reclaim action will occur and we beckon the blessings of Chaosfliehe.” 

Aub Drewanchel was now leaning forward curiously and Georgine suspected it wasn’t support, but Hadrian’s adoptive father was very curious of the temple now and her champaign to clean the image. “And what of your own white robe… the same color of ivory building protecting us from the severity of Ewigeliebe.” 

Georgine smiled, “Fu fu fu… that’s correct Aub Drewanchel, the white robe is indeed the symbol of protection from the Gods for High Bishop. The Zent of old also wear white robe, as they were bestowed wisdoms of Mestionora… and thus protected by Verbergen so Ewigeliebe didn’t mistake us for the Goddess of Wisdom.” 

“How fascinating!” 

And just like that not only did Georgine have a perfect presentation, she managed to turn her bad reputation for donning the white robes of High Bishop to a marvelous revolutionary of the temple. 

After the presentation was over her scholars and herself were swarmed for discussion about both compression and the temple. Georgine’s future father-in-law’s compliments were most satisfying. “As expected of the lady my adoptive son chose, his Dark Goddess.  You’re more than worthy to be Drewanchel’s daughter-in-law… if you ever feel it’s too narrow under Schutzaria’s shield, you are welcome to our Geduldh.” 

Basically… Drewanchel would welcome her in their duchy if her quest to be Aub did not work out. Georgine just smiled enigmatically in response. The future was unknown, so it was best to keep her options open. It was interesting to see her father become pale upon hearing that Aub Drewanchel openly supported her bid for Aubhood, and the offer to welcome her to Drewanchel. Veronica fumed watching Georgine basked in glory, and even foolishly protested that Gergine should have saved this research for Sylvester to present next year.

…As if Sylvester would even finish his class early enough by next year to start any research. Even if he did, those idiotic scholars that Veronica gave to him would fail to comprehend it.

Notes:

Next will be ditter! Ditter! Let it be Ditter!
ps : I REALLY sorry I scatter my brain and write wrongly that Ritthauz was to be second husband- he actually WAS in my very first draft and I forget changing that... ha ha haa- but yeah the idea is- OLDER second husband works better than younger one.

Notes:

Here comes the new series that would be uploaded in tandem with 'Rejuve' which I still do not know what the official title will be.
Anyway...
Georgine's epilogue in part 5 inspire me to write this story. World is not fair, but I guess in the end... Georgine get what she wants. Sylvester has to KILL/defeat her to be proper Aub of Ehrenfest and even then... one can only wonder if he would ever be a good Aub. That would be another discussion that set our AoB server on fire, so let's not dwell on it hahhaha
Anyway, this is a what if Georgine take the 'higher' road and make her own chance to compete to be Aub. Think about it- she has enough mana to balance a grand duchy Aub, and Sylvester is balancing a middle duchy ADC from third wife's daughter... it's obvious from that, that Georgine has more mana than Sylvester pre- Roz compression. She is also an honor student
Her compression is from her learning in the UNDERGROUND library! so yeah- she is also a RARE ADC who goes to library on her own! She also 'filter' her aides and confirmed in FB, all smart ones in Veronican faction goes to her- leaving loyal braindead ones for Sylvester.

This fanfic is all about potential that wasted by Ehrenfest in favor of Sylvester. They passed up too many competent prospective Aub for... well... favoritism sake.
So pro-Sylvester... please read this fanfic with caution. THat said- I wouldn't 'invent' flaws and make Sylvester worse than canon.
Regardless of what some might think of our group's harsh opinion on Sylvester, I don't fancy making up stuff to make him seem worse. Then again this fanfic is ALSO from Georgine's point of view for most part, so it would take a while for her opinion to soften.

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 1 of Georgine's Revolution