《The Countess And Her Knight》 Chapter 1 - Introduction "Caroline!" The voice of her pursuer calls out to her as she darts down the dimly lit corridor, hoping to elude them. But the footsteps only get closer and closer. She runs down the end of the corridor to a crossroad. "Right or left?" The footsteps get closer. "Was the exit right or left?!" She thinks to herself, as the voice calls out to her once again. "Caroline! Come out, come out, wherever you are!" "Right!" She turns down the corridor and runs as fast as she''s able. As she gets further down the hallway, a bright light shines through, causing her to almost leap with joy; she had chosen the right way! Or at least that''s what she had thought. As she gets closer, she realizes that this is, in fact, a dead end. The light was coming from a window, taking up the majority of the wall. She turns to go back, but she''s met with a familiar pair of vibrant purple eyes, staring back at her from the end of the hallway. She freezes in fear as the figure grins and calmly walks towards her. "Found you." She looks between the figure and the window, only a few feet behind her at the end of the hallway. She weighs her options and decides to take her chances with the window. She takes a deep breath and runs toward it. She closes her eyes and braces for an impact that never comes. April 21, 1835 Caroline¡¯s eyes shoot open, she immediately scans her surroundings; after realizing that she is still in her carriage, her breathing steadies. ¡°We''ve arrived.¡± A deep voice pulls her out of her thoughts. She looks up to see her butler and escort, Edgar Smith, holding his gloved hand out to her. "Are you ready?" "Y-Yes." She stammers on her words before taking his hand. He carefully helps her out of the carriage and onto the pathway leading up to the manor. A group of around twenty or thirty servants are lined up to greet her. A man, around the same age as Edgar, walks up to them. He politely bows to her, before speaking. "Welcome to the Van Allen Residence, Lady Boushley. I¡¯ll be taking care of you for the remainder of your stay here. You may call me Edmond." An eerie feeling creeps up in the back of her mind, but she brushes it off and curtsies. ¡°Thank you-¡± ¡°Please follow me, the Count wishes to meet with you before dinner.¡± He begins walking up the stairs, not bothering to wait for Caroline''s response. A man a year or two younger than her opens the door for them. The butler leads her up a dimly lit corridor to the Count¡¯s office. He stops a few feet from the door and turns to her. ¡°I¡¯ll show Mr. Smith out, while you''re meeting with the Count. When you''re done, Ms.Windsor will come and show you to your sleeping quarters.¡± He doesn''t give Caroline the chance to respond. He begins walking back in the direction they came from, and motions for Edgar to follow. ¡°Goodbye, Lady Boushley, it''s been an honor to serve you.¡± He takes the back of her hand in his and kisses it. ¡°Please, take good care of my father,¡± she pleads. ¡°I will do my best.¡± He bows, before taking his leave. Caroline turns around and takes a deep breath, as the door opens to reveal an oddly familiar pair of vibrant purple eyes. Chapter 2 - One Caroline had heard many rumors about the Count prior to arriving at the estate. But she wasn''t one to listen to that dribble, especially if it was about her husband-to-be. Caroline was a daddy''s girl and had complete trust that her father would find her a good husband. It was already the week before she left when she had begun to question that. Her father began to act very strangely; he seemed nervous and would bring up a new topic every time she had asked a question about the Count. In the end, she decided this was normal behavior for a father who was about to marry off his daughter. After all, her father loves her very much. This conclusion was Caroline''s first mistake and the beginning of her untimely undoing. "Did you hear what I said?" the Count asks. His voice snaps Caroline from her thoughts. "No, I didn''t quite catch that." "I said that the wedding will proceed as planned. For now, you will be staying in the White Lily Wing," the Count repeats. "Oh, yes, of course." He continues, "And I know that your father''s final situation is¡­ complicated, to say the least." She tenses up in her seat. "So I''ve hired a tutor to help prepare you for the wedding. She''ll be arriving next Wednesday." "Oh, thank you-" "Sadly, I will not be there to greet her, I''m leaving for a business meeting tomorrow evening." "But I''ve only just arrived." "It will only be a few weeks. I''m sure you can manage." "I-" He shoots her an icy glare as if to say, "Be happy I even bothered telling you," which sends a shiver down her spine. "Yes, of course." "Good. Now if you don''t need anything, I have work to do." "Oh, actually-" He interrupts her by pulling the bell at his desk, alerting the staff that he¡¯s ready for her to leave. Before she has the chance to say anything, the door abruptly opens to reveal a maid a few years younger than Caroline, with two bright red pigtails. ¡°Ms.¡± The young maid squeaks nervously, ¡°are you ready?¡± She walks to the end of the room before stopping and turns back to her fianc¨¦. ¡°I¡¯ll see you at dinner?¡± she asks hopefully. He doesn''t respond nor bothers to even look up. She lets out a sigh, knowing that he¡¯s already lost in his own world and that he can no longer hear a thing she says.. She turns on her heel and walks out of the room, defeated. Chapter 3 - Two "My lady, are you ok?" Ms. Windsor asks, snapping Caroline from her thoughts. "You look shaken." "Y-Yes," Caroline stutters before taking a deep breath and regaining her composure. "I''m fine." Milly nods, clearly unconvinced, "I''ll take you to your bed-chamber, so you can freshen up before dinner." "Thank you," Caroline replies, "I''ve yet to see it." Milly holds a small, rusted oil lamp in front of herself, as she leads Caroline down the long, windy hall to her be-chamber, located in the far back of the white hallway. Milly stops in front of a pale, greyish baby blue-colored cedar door surrounded by a large, white frame. She grabs a small, silver key from her apron pocket and unlocks the door. She lightly pushes it open and steps inside, with Caroline close behind her. She lights a few candles to brighten the room, so Caroline can look around. "I''ll go find you something suitable to wear," Milly says before walking over to Caroline''s closet. Caroline doesn''t pay much attention to what she''s saying and continues to let her eyes wander the interior. The walls were pure white with a blue and yellow-flowered print. The floor was white marble, and a lily was painted in the center, just under the massive king-sized bed. A white canopy laid overhead, and the bed had an ornate, big blue comforter on top, along with five neatly stacked pillows. A wooden bedside table was placed on each side. A matching brown wooden desk with perfume and a few writing utensils sat on top, taking up the majority of the right side of the room. A window took up the left. From it, you could see the estate''s decrepit garden. Despite its neatness and grandeur, the room was fairly empty compared to its size. Caroline runs her finger down the small wooden nightstand; strangely she doesn¡¯t find a speck of dust, even though the room appeared to be unoccupied prior to her arrival. "My lady," Milly calls out to Caroline, drawing her back to reality, "I found one." "Coming," Caroline yells, taking one last look around the room while walking over to her. Chapter 4 - Three Milly Windsor was a young woman, only a few years younger than Caroline, but b?r?ly old enough to even be considered one. She had a slender frame and wore two long, red braids on both sides of her head. Her skin was pale, almost sickly, but her cheeks were rosy and covered with freckles. She wore a simple, dark brown dress under a spotless white apron, reflective of the fact that this was still a new undertaking for her. She didn''t quite know the full layout of the estate yet, so she got lost easily and was often late. She appeared timid around the Count and the rest of the staff, but when she was alone with Caroline, she was more open and energetic. At times, it was hard for Caroline to even get a word in. Milly had come to the estate only a few months prior to Caroline''s engagement to the Count. Previously, she had worked at her family''s bakery in a small town up north. After her father''s passing, they had no choice but to shut the bakery down. She managed to get a job at the estate to support her mother and younger brother; she sent them all that she could, which wasn''t much, but it was enough for them to get by. As she dressed Caroline for supper, she had told her all of this and more. "My lady," Milly squeaks, halting Caroline''s daydreaming, "You''re just about ready. You just need to pick out some jewelry." Milly brings out three different necklaces, all of which would pair with her dress almost perfectly. Instead of picking among these, Caroline grabs a small emerald necklace shoved in the back of the box. "This one." "My lady," Milly asks confused, "are you sure this is the one you want? It doesn''t go with your dress." Caroline flashes Milly a small, bittersweet smile. "Yes, it''s special to me." Milly sees the sadness in Caroline''s eyes and doesn''t push any further. She gently places it on Caroline''s neck, just as there''s a knock at the door. "Lady Boushley," the knocker asks, "may I come in?" "Y-Yes," Caroline stammers nervously. The door opens to reveal Edmond, the head butler."Are you ready for supper?" Caroline glances at Milly, who looks as nervous as she did around the Count, before looking back at Edmond. "Yes-" He cuts her off, "Good, follow me." She reluctantly trails behind him out of the room as he leads her down the dark hallway. If not for Edmond''s lamp, it would''ve been pitch black. There wasn''t a window or candle in sight. As they walk farther down the hall, she spots a dim light in the corner of her eye. She looks over to see where the light is coming from, but Edmond steps in her line of vision. "The dining room is right this way," Edmond says, motioning towards his right. "Oh yes, of course. Thank you." Caroline follows him into the dining room, but she can''t quite shake the feeling that something is greatly awry at the Van Estate. Caroline looks around the dining table in an optimistic search for the Count, but much to her dismay, he is nowhere to be seen. Edmond pulls out her chair, and she sits on the left end of the table. "Is the Count coming?" "No," Edmond says, "the Count eats dinner in his study every night." "Oh," Caroline says disappointedly, "okay." "Supper shall be out shortly." Edmond bows before exiting the room, leaving Caroline alone. She lets out a long-awaited sigh. Just as she thinks she can finally take a moment to think everything over, the door bursts open, and Edmond walks in with her meal. He places the plate in front of her. "Ring for me when you are ready." He bows once more and takes his leave. Caroline stares down at her bowl; it seems unappetizing at best. The soup looks strangely chunky. She hesitantly takes a sip, and it''s just as bad as she thought it would be. She eats as much as she can without getting sick before ringing for Edmond. Within seconds he arrives, "You called?" "I''m ready to retire for the evening." She stands up, and he pushes in her chair. "Are you quite sure? You haven¡¯t even received the main course yet.¡± ¡°Of course, right this way." He leads her out of the dining room and back down the hallway to her bedroom. He opens the door and lets her inside. "I''ll send for Ms. Windsor," he says while bowing. Before Caroline has the chance to thank him, he leaves the room. Only moments later, Milly stumbles into the room. "Sorry for the wait," she squeaks nervously. "It''s fine," Caroline says softly, "I''d like to prepare for bed." "Oh, of course," Milly says nervously as she walks over to Caroline''s wardrobe, "I''ll find you something to wear." Milly picks out a frilly blue nightgown from the closet and helps Caroline change into it. Caroline doesn''t recognize the garment but thinks nothing of it until she lays down and sees the initials "CA" embroidered on her left sleeve. Milly insists that it must stand for Caroline Van, but an eerie feeling creeps up in the back of Caroline''s mind.. She simply can''t shake the thought that someone unbeknownst to her may be living just a few halls down. Chapter 5 - Four April 22, 1835 Caroline''s eyes flutter open and, although the curtains are drawn, light floods in from the window near her bedside. Caroline lets out a yawn as she sits up to look around the room. It takes a moment for her to recognize her surroundings, but upon doing so the realization sits in: she had really been sent off to marry the Count. She knew it was coming, she was well past of age, but it didn''t feel real until this moment. She stands up to stretch before walking over to the windows and pulling open the blinds. In that moment, as if sensing Caroline''s grievance, Milly bursts open the door in quite a hurry. "Good morning-" "My lady, who drew open the curtains? No one told me you called." Milly asks in a panic, walking over to her. "I did-" she once again cuts Caroline off. "You shouldn''t do such things; if you need anything, all you must do is ring for me," Milly exclaims. "It''s alright, I''m quite capable of opening curtains," Caroline says, sternly. "My apologies, I didn''t mean it that way-" Milly says in a low, hushed voice. She begins to shake like a scared rabbit. Caroline takes notice of this and attempts to comfort her. "It''s fine," Caroline says, "is the Count still in? I''d like him to join me for breakfast." "That''s actually why I came to wake you," Milly says, "the Count is preparing to leave, so I''ve come to dress you to say goodbye with everyone." "Why didn''t you tell me sooner!" Caroline yells. "I''m sorry, my lady," Milly says meekly, "I''ll find you something to wear right away!" Milly runs off to Caroline''s closet. A few minutes later she comes back with three different dresses. The first was a long, dark blue dress, similar to the one she arrived in, but it was a little too plain; she needed to look her best if this was to be the last time she would see her husband-to-be for nearly three weeks time. The second was a little more extravagant than she was used to; it was a pale yellow with white accents studding it from top to bottom. The last dress was a dark emerald green with corresponding light green accents. Green wasn''t normally a color she would choose, but it matched her favorite necklace perfectly. "I''d like to wear that one," Caroline says, pointing to the third dress. Milly purses her lips, signaling that it isn''t her favorite; nevertheless, she helps Caroline put it on. She pairs it with dark green flats and the emerald necklace Caroline had worn the day before. Milly quickly puts Caroline''s hair in a tight bun before leading her out of the white Lily Wing down to the first floor. As they make their way down the stairs, Caroline spots the Count in the mix of all the chaos. She squeezes past the crowd of servants making their way outside, leaving Milly behind. "Please wait!" Caroline shouts as the Count turns to leave the manor. He stops in his tracks and turns around to face her as she makes her way over to him. "Nice of you to grace us with your presence," he says coldly. "I''m sorry for my absence," Caroline says, nearly out of breath. "Well, you made it just in time. I''m about to leave." "About that, I was hoping we could have breakfast together before you left," Caroline says, her eyes glimmering with hope. "I-" he''s cut off. "We''re all packed up, my lord." A soldier, around the same age as the Count, who Caroline ?ssumes to be his guard, interrupts him. The Count turns to face him. "Let''s take our leave then." The soldier nods in agreement. He bows to Caroline on his way out. She reluctantly follows them with Milly not far behind her. As they exit the building, the staff stands in two rows on both sides, arranged as they had been when Caroline first arrived at the estate. The Count walks over to his carriage, not once looking back at her. The soldier sits next to the driver as he hits the reins before the carriage is pulled by two black beauties down the driveway.. As Caroline waves goodbye, she can¡¯t help the feeling of loneliness and solitude sink in, for with the Count leaving she was truly alone at the Van Estate. Chapter 6 - Five April 25, 1835 Light blares through Caroline''s window onto her sleeping form. She rolls over, and the light shines on her eyelids, causing them to flutter open. Just as Caroline goes to sit up, Milly walks in and opens the curtains. "Hello," Caroline says, in a sleepy tone. "Oh, my lady, you''re awake," Milly says, startled. "You''re normally not up for another half hour," she says nervously, "I''ll go get your bath ready." "Thank you," Caroline says, b?r?ly audibly. She throws her feet over the side of the bed and stretches. She lets out a loud yawn as Milly walks out of the room. She comes back a few minutes later carrying two buckets of hot water, with a few other maids Caroline didn''t recognize trailing behind her. They walk back and forth with the buckets from Caroline''s private bath and the downstairs kitchen where the water is heated. After three trips to the kitchen, the bath is finally ready. Caroline is called to the bath, "My Lady, your bath is ready!" "I''ll be right there!" Caroline shouts from the warmth of her bed. She stands up and grabs her silky white robe. She wraps it tightly around her slender frame before walking out of her bed-chamber to the bath. Caroline steps into the bath chamber, but stands there awkwardly, waiting for Milly to leave; she doesn''t. "My lady," Milly asks in confusion, "do you need help disrobing?" "No," Caroline squeaks nervously, "I''d like you to leave¡­ please." "My lady, I-I don''t understand," Milly queries, "would you like me to call someone else?" Caroline regains her composure, "No, I can do it myself." "But my lady-" she''s interrupted. "I said I can do it myself," Caroline replies firmly, "do you not think I''m incapable of doing the simplest of tasks?" "No, I didn''t mean it like that, I just-" she is once again interrupted. "Then we''re understood. Right?" "Yes, my lady," Milly says in a somewhat distraught tone, "I''ll take my leave." She bows before walking out of the room without another word. Caroline lets out a sigh of relief as she hears the door slam shut. She unties her robe and slides it off along with her und?r??rm?nts. She carefully steps into the large metal tub. Warm water envelopes her body as she sits down. She takes the sponge sitting on the edge of the tub and soaps it up. After washing off, she soaks in the tub for several minutes, mulling over if she was too harsh to Milly. After nearly falling asleep, Caroline gets up, dries herself off, and puts her robe back on before walking back to her bed-chamber. She puts on the und?r??rm?nts laid out neatly on her bed then rings for Milly to help her with her corset. "You called?" Milly asks, entering the room. "Yes, I need help getting dressed." "Oh yes, of course." Milly walks over and helps Caroline into her corset. She chooses a simple brown dress from the four Milly had picked out during Caroline¡¯s bath. Milly then puts her lady¡¯s hair into a simple curled updo. "I''d like to go for a walk in the garden." Caroline could see Milly tense up in the mirror upon hearing this. But Caroline had spent the last three days cooped up inside; it was only natural that she would want some fresh air. "A-Are you sure that''s wise my lady?" Milly stutters, "the garden isn''t well maintained." "Yes, I''d like to explore outside," Caroline replies, "could you prepare a snack for me?" Milly doesn''t answer. "Did you hear me?" Caroline asks, snapping her maid back to reality. "Oh, yes," Milly says nervously, "I''ll get that right away." She quickly walks out of the room, leaving Caroline alone in her bed-chamber. Caroline can''t help but wonder why Milly seemed so nervous; it was unsettling to say the least. She shakes off the feeling and prepares to leave, donning a dark brown cloak to shield her from the cold weather. Before leaving, she grabs the novel she had started reading on the carriage ride up to the estate. After Milly returns with her snack, Caroline begins her journey. Ironically, the cemetery was the only part in decent condition, at least comparatively to the rest of the garden. All of the gravestones except three in the front row were cracked and crumbled. Those three seemed almost brand new. However, there were no flowers to be seen, making it obvious no one had ever visited. The three were all the Count¡¯s immediate family: the first belonging to his father, Irvin Van Allen, the previous Count; the second to his mother, Thirza, the last countess; and the last to his twin sister, Cybelle. After looking at the gravestones and exploring the graveyard a bit, Caroline discovers a sliver of life in all this death: a tree standing at the edge of the graveyard. She finds a cozy spot, nestled in its roots, to sit and read. Hours come and go, and before she knows it, her eyelids become too heavy to stay open. She felt as though she had only rested her head, but by the time she had awoken, the sky was already dark. Upon realizing the time, Caroline rushes back to the manor. She pushes open the surprisingly heavy pine door and is met with a familiar face: Edgard. He stands there with a particularly disapproving look on his face. "Lady Boushley, you¡¯re back." There''s a glint of anger in his eyes, causing Caroline to stiffen up. "You shouldn''t be wandering around at this hour." "Yes, I know," Caroline says, "I was just taking a walk-" "You don''t need to explain yourself to me," he says in a cold tone, "I''ll have the chef prepare your dinner right away." "No need," she interjects, "I''d like to retire for the evening." "As you wish," he says, "I''ll have Ms. Windsor come up." He bows before taking his leave. Caroline heads up to her room. She takes off her cape and dons a pair of slippers before Milly walks in. "Lady Boushley, you''re okay!" Milly yells, running over to her. She almost tackles Caroline to the ground with an embrace. "I''m fine," Caroline says as Milly lets go of her. "My apologies, I shouldn''t have touched you like that without your permission," Milly says, bowing. "It''s fine, thank you for your concern." Caroline turns around, and motions to the back of her dress. "I''d like to go to bed now." "Oh yes, of course!" Milly helps Caroline out of her dress, and into her nightgown. Milly leaves, and after tossing and turning for a while, Caroline finally manages to fall asleep. This had become Caroline''s daily routine; it was tedious, yet serene.. Sadly, this peace was about to be upended, for the viscountess was going to arrive in just a few days. Chapter 7 - Six All hell had broken loose at the estate for the viscountess was set to arrive today; everything had to be perfect. The once barren halls were now flooded with servants that Caroline would not have met, or even seen, under ordinary circumstances. This morning she is woken up by not just Milly. Three other maids, whose names she didn¡¯t have time to catch, are there with her. Upon opening her eyes, Caroline is immediately thrown into the bath. And despite her protests, two maids accompany her. Caroline strips into her und?r??rm?nts before stepping into the large metal tub. Then they thoroughly scrub her body with vinegar water until she is deemed clean. Caroline steps out and quickly brushes her teeth with a cup of clean water to wash out the vinegar. It¡¯s still sour but she endures it. After this, she is quickly taken back to her bed-chamber. She is promptly helped into a simple dark brown, almost black, dress. Milly had clearly not chosen it. Her taste was brighter, more extravagant. Caroline slips on a pair of matching dress slippers. One of the maids who had helped her bathe brings over Caroline¡¯s jewelry box. She was the tallest of the three; she wore her curly, dark brown hair in a tight bun with striking brown eyes and dark skin to match. The maid opens the box, and Caroline pulls out her favorite emerald green necklace that she has worn every day since she arrived. ¡°Lady Boushley, are you sure you want that one? It doesn''t match your dress, and you have many others.¡± ¡°Yes, I''m quite sure. Thank you.¡± The maid nods in response. Caroline sits down, and the other maid begins to style her hair. Caroline can vaguely see her in the mirror. She seemed nervous and appeared to be the youngest of the three. She had wavy, strawberry blond hair, tanned skin, and a sunny disposition. ¡°Ms.-¡± the maid beside her nudges her foot. ¡°I mean, my lady, we¡¯ve finished.¡± ¡°Ah yes, thank you.¡± ¡°What should we do now?¡± Caroline inquires, hopping up from her seat. The two appear uncomfortable as if they wish to say something but can''t find the words to do so. The maid who Caroline had ?ssumed to be the eldest spoke up. ¡°My lady, if you¡¯ll excuse us, we have to help prepare for the viscountess¡¯ arrival later this evening.¡± Her voice was cold and calm, monotonous even. Her hair was as black as night, and her stare was piercing. She never lowered her gaze, even as she curtsied. She walked out without another word, and the other two quickly followed. Caroline studied the woman as she exited the room. She appeared too proud to be but a mere maid; she kept her shoulders up straight and never looked back. ¡°Lady Boushley?¡± Milly called out to her, stepping in front of her, blocking the open door. ¡°Yes?¡± Caroline responded. ¡°I¡¯m afraid that I¡¯ll also have to take my leave. They¡¯ll be needing my help as well.¡± This takes Caroline a little off guard. Milly was her personal maid after all. Despite this, she didn¡¯t protest; after all, the estate did seem severely understaffed when Caroline had arrived. ¡°Oh, of course.¡± Caroline shifts in her seat, clearly uneasy. ¡°I¡¯ll be back as soon as possible,¡± she remarks, walking to the door. ¡°Ring if you need anything!¡± With that she leaves the room, shutting the door behind her. Caroline lets out a sigh as she face-plants onto her oversized bed. She flips around, twists about, and turns from side to side rapidly with boredom. ¡°Ugh, I can¡¯t just lay here all morning waiting!¡± She jumps up, stares at the door, walks over to it, and reaches for the knob, daring herself to open it. She eventually gives in to temptation and throws open the door. She pops her head out and looks around. There¡¯s no one in sight. She takes this opportunity to promptly leave her bed-chamber. Being new to the estate, Caroline wanders around the dark halls without direction. Along the way, she begins to recognize her surroundings. She was nearing the dining hall. A dim light catches her vision once again from the corner of her eye. The light was coming from the side hall, just like last time. She turns down the hall; the farther down she gets, the more drawn she feels to the room she saw on her last venture. She reaches the end of the hall and reaches out to open the door, but her arm is swiftly pulled away, snapping her out of her daze. ¡°Lady Boushley, what do you think you¡¯re doing?!¡± Recognizing the voice, Caroline turns around to see the black-haired maid from this morning. ¡°Looking around my house of course,¡± Caroline says, confidently. ¡°Heh,¡± Caroline looks at the maid, baffled. Had her ears deceived her? Had the maid really laughed? ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡± Caroline asks, taken aback by her behavior. The maid goes to open her mouth but before she has the chance to speak, Milly calls out to them. ¡°Ah, Lady Boushley,¡± she runs down the hall, ¡°this is where you¡¯ve been. I was looking all over for you. Did you get lost?¡± ¡°Yes, I did.¡± Caroline turns to the other maid, ¡°She was guiding me. What was your name again? I¡¯m afraid that it escapes me at the moment.¡± ¡°Yes, Iris was showing me the way back.¡± ¡°Back? My Lady, haven¡¯t you heard? The Viscountess has arrived!¡± ¡°Already?¡± Caroline asks. ¡°Yes, we must make haste.¡± Milly begins walking down the hall. Caroline tries to shake off Iris''s grip and follow her, but instead, Iris pulls her back. Suddenly, the maid leans near her ear. ¡°You are not the countess yet.¡± She releases Caroline. ¡°My lady!¡± Milly shouts from the end of the hall. ¡°Coming!¡± Caroline yells out to her before running down the hall.. She feels Iris''s glare the whole way down. Chapter 8 - Seven The Viscountess'' full name was Viscountess Vivan Anne Blackborrow. Most just referred to her as the Viscountess as she was the only Viscountess in the whole continent. People often described her as an intimidating woman; those people would be correct. She had a strong demeanor, a sharp gaze, and a commanding voice that bombed through the halls of the estate as she quickly took over. Before breakfast even began, she flipped the residence over, and it was quickly in her command. Edmond, the head butler, and the person who previously seemed to be in charge did not seem pleased with her rule. Despite this, he served breakfast as normal. Breakfast included tea, poached eggs, asparagus, bread, and some kind of red berry that Caroline had never seen before and found quite bitter. She had heard it was to the Viscountess'' liking. She had perfect posture and ate quite formally to match with her thick brown hair fashioned in a tight bun; not a strand was out of place. She dressed in all black, signaling that she was widowed, and had wrinkled, olive skin. Yet she appeared to be b?r?ly middle-aged - this was most likely a toll from the difficult life she had lived thus far. Despite all this, the Viscountess was still very beautiful; in her prime, she would have been the ¡°belle of the ball.¡± The air in the dining hall was tense. Caroline had b?r?ly touched her plate, feeling the Viscountess'' piercing gaze every time she took a bite, clearly analyzing her level of etiquette.¡°How long have you known the Count?¡± Caroline asks in a desperate attempt to clear the air and make conversation. ¡°Since he was a child. I was well acquainted with the late Countess.¡± Caroline picks up one of the strange red berries and plops it into her mouth. She picks up another. ¡°Ah, what was she like?-¡± She is quickly interrupted by the Viscountess. ¡°Has no one taught you proper etiquette? Use your fork.¡± She snorts. ¡°Ah yes, Viscountess.¡± Caroline sets down the berry and picks up her fork.. Not another word was spoken; breakfast was quite an awkward affair, and both parties had clearly left a bad impression. Chapter 9 - Eight That morning Caroline is awoken by a lamp light filling her bed-chamber. She tries to ignore the light and continue her slumber, but Milly¡¯s shrill voice fills her ears, forcing her dull blue eyes open. ¡°My lady, you must make haste. The Viscountess is ready to start your lessons.¡± ¡°Lessons?¡± Caroline asks, looking around the room. ¡°The sun is still rising, it is far too early to learn anything-¡± ¡°I¡¯m afraid she insisted, you meet her in the dining room before half-past five.¡± Caroline glances at the clock; it was already a quarter past five. ¡°Fine, fine I¡¯ll get up now if I must,¡± she groans while sitting up on the side of the bed. ¡°Fetch me something appropriate to wear.¡± ¡°Right away.¡± Milly bows before walking over to Caroline¡¯s wardrobe. She comes back only five minutes later with a dark brown dress in hand. "I heard that the Viscountess prefers darker colors, so I decided to go with this brown one. It¡¯s not typically something I would choose but it¡¯s better to please the Viscountess than to risk-" "I''m sure whatever you picked out is fine," replies Caroline while standing. "Help me get dressed." "Yes, my lady." Caroline quickly gets dressed and runs over to the dining room. Upon her arrival, she is scolded for her tardiness. ¡°You''re late.¡± ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry-¡± ¡°Nevermind, let¡¯s just get started; we¡¯re on a schedule Ms. Boushley.¡± This being both her first day, as well as her first grievance, Caroline was politely forgiven. Well at least the Viscountess had thought so. Caroline on the other hand was somewhat taken aback by her terseness and disdain. Caroline was then put right to work, with the first lesson being taught on proper dining etiquette. Caroline made a few mistakes but nothing great enough to anger the Viscountess. Afterward, they¡¯re set to try dancing. However, before Caroline can showcase her coordination or lack thereof, Milly interrupts them. ¡°Lady Boushley, the dressmaker is here.¡± ¡°Yes, they need your measurements for your wedding dress.¡± Caroline looks to the Viscountess for a response. ¡°You mustn''t keep her waiting, child; we¡¯ll continue the lesson afterward.¡± Milly escorts Caroline to a small room down the hall. Inside, a small lady who appeared to be quite old and a younger brown-haired woman who looked to be around Caroline¡¯s age waited. Caroline ?ssumed the older of the two was the dressmaker, and the younger to be the ?ssistant. ¡°Greetings, Madam...¡± Caroline curtsies. ¡°My name is Madam Brooks; my ?ssistant will be taking your measurements today,¡± the old woman says in a raspy voice. Her ?ssistant looks rather distracted and doesn''t make any movements. ¡°Kim!¡± ¡°Yes, Madam-¡± ¡°Take her measurements!¡± ¡°Ah yes, right away!¡± She nervously runs to grab a few things before beginning. The dress fitting is quite an awkward affair, but the supposedly stunning, and now properly fitting, the dress is said to be done in a week or two. Afterward, Caroline went to meet with the Viscountess for the remainder of the day. They had gone over a variety of matrimonial topics, such as the dance for the wedding, etiquette, who would be at the ceremony and how to address them, etcetera. After the lesson was complete, the two had dinner together. The meal was unsatisfactory, to say the least. As Caroline walks further down the hall, she hears m??ns of sorrow. Fearing someone may be hurt she follows it. The cries lead her to the Viscountess'' bedroom. She reaches for the knob, but a voice calls out to her before she can turn it open. "Lady Boushley." Caroline whips her head around, to see the dark-haired maid, who had accompanied Milly the other day. She had not had the chance to catch her name. "Do you need anything? Why are you wandering around this late at night?" "I wanted a bite to eat." "Then I''ll fetch it for you," she says while holding out her hand to her. "Please allow me to escort you to your room first." Caroline accepts her hand great fully, "Thank you, Ms?" "Ah, I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Elisheva Tartal. The other two maids who served you the day of the Viscountess'' arrival are Winnie Usoro and Iris Vozenilek." She curtsies. Caroline smiles. "Thank you, Ms. Tartal." Elisheva nods in response. She escorts Caroline back to her room before bringing her a snack from the kitchen. After her stomach is full, Caroline is finally able to fall asleep.. The Viscountess¡¯ tiring lessons were scheduled to continue on for many more weeks to come. Chapter 10 - Nine Throughout the Viscountess'' stay, there had been many rumors about her circulating around the estate. It was so bad to the point where even Caroline had begun to hear them. Some were quite frankly ridiculous, like the rumor that she bathed in the blood of children to stay young or would transform into a wolf on the night of a full moon. Others were more realistic; the most popular rumor, both with the servants as well as high society, was that the Viscountess had killed her husband in cold blood. A few weeks after the Viscountess'' son, Jeremy, had been born, the Viscount was found dead. He had been stabbed through the heart in his own bedchamber. Since he passed, the Viscountess was given control of his estate until her son came of age. After seeing the Viscountess distraught the night before, Caroline had chosen to not believe in these rumors and vowed to put them to rest whenever she heard someone speak of them. So when she heard two maids gossiping before her lesson, she scolded them. ¡°Did you hear about the Viscountess?¡± The younger of the two asks. ¡°About her being a vampire-¡± ¡°No, now people are saying that she killed the Viscount in some kind of ritual.¡± ¡°A ritual?¡± ¡°Ladies,¡± Caroline says firmly, ¡°shouldn''t you get back to work?¡± The two maids, who had not noticed Caroline¡¯s presence until now, stiffen up upon hearing her voice. They turn to face her. ¡°We¡¯re on break-¡± ¡°Lady Boushley, you''re late.¡± The Viscountess calls to her from down the hall. ¡°Give me a second, I was having a talk with-¡± Caroline turns to motion towards the maids, but the two scampered down the hall as soon as they had noticed the Viscountess'' presence. She lets out a sigh, makes a mental note to reprimand them later if she passes by them again, and walks into the classroom. Caroline and the Viscountess had worked on etiquette as they had the day before. In the midst of this, Caroline found herself ignoring the Viscountess'' instruction, as worries of Caroline¡¯s engagement crept up in the back of her mind. "Caroline!" "Ah yes-" "Are your ears clogged, child?!" the Viscountess snorts. "I called you over four times." "My apologies, my mind had begun to wander." She shakes her head in disapproval, "Fine, fine just show me your curtsy." Caroline nervously grabs her gown and bends her head as she lowers herself a few inches. As she raises her head she notices the Viscountess'' relaxed expression; noticing Caroline''s stare, the Viscountess¡¯ mouth returns to its usual scorn. "Hm, that actually wasn''t too bad." "Thank you, Vis-" "Don''t get ahead of yourself now. It still needs some work." Despite the Viscountess comment, Caroline couldn¡¯t help but smile. The two had grown closer since their instruction began. Although Caroline had never known a mother, the Viscountess had taken over the role of a maternal figure. Caroline had even begun to look forward to these lessons; sadly the Count would soon return, and the two would have to part ways.. The Viscountess was not even scheduled to stay for the wedding. Chapter 11 - Ten May 17, 1835 Minutes turned into hours, turned into days, turned into weeks, and the Viscountess'' lessons had come to an end. Caroline''s etiquette had greatly improved. The day before the Viscountess was set to leave, the two decided to have dinner in the garden; well what had remained of the garden. The Viscountess had often met with the former Countess for tea at the very table they sat, nearly a decade ago. It was for that reason Caroline decided to ask about the deceased Countess as they waited for Milly to arrive with their meal. ¡°What was the Countess like? The two of you were close, correct?¡± The Viscountess freezes up, sets down her tea cup, and is silent for a moment. She looks deep in thought but thankfully breaks the silence before things get too awkward. ¡°Thirza was quite often misunderstood. She was highly respected in society, even before she married the former Count, but some found her demeanor cold. So she was often surrounded by scandals, as was I.¡± The Viscountess takes a sip of her tea. ¡°I think that¡¯s what made us great friends. She was the kindest soul I ever knew. When my husband brought me back with him from overseas and announced we were to be wed, Thirza was the only person who welcomed me with open arms.¡± She looks up at Caroline; tears fill the corner of her eyes. ¡°I think that if Thirza was alive today, she would¡¯ve liked you.¡± The Viscountess sends Caroline a bittersweet smile. Not another word is said ¡®till dinner is served. Strangely, Milly had not brought out their meal as she was scheduled too, nor did Edmond. Instead, Iris and Elisheva served them. Caroline finds this to be unusual, as they were normally working elsewhere. ¡°Where is Mi-¡± she stops mid sentence to correct herself, ¡°where is Ms. Windsor?¡± Elisheva looks nervous and opens her mouth to say something, but before she has the chance, Iris speaks up. ¡°She¡¯s tending to other things at the moment.¡± Iris speaks clearly and confidently, so Caroline doesn''t press any further. Elisheva places Caroline¡¯s plate in front of her as Iris serves the Viscountess. The meal consisted of fish, bread, berries, and cheese. Caroline was not a huge fan of seafood, but she didn¡¯t wish to cause a fuss, so she picked around it. Iris and Elisheva head back to the kitchen, leaving Caroline and the Viscountess alone. The air feels lighter now that they¡¯re alone, so Caroline attempts to make conversation. ¡°Have you enjoyed your stay?¡± The Viscountess looks up from her plate. ¡°Yes, although it is quite different from the last time I was here.¡± ¡°How so?¡± Caroline asks. ¡°The estate was a lot livelier back then,¡± the Viscountess says, taking a bite of her fish. ¡°I was hoping to try and bring back the garden and install gas lighting throughout the entire manor, if the Count would allow it.¡± The Viscountess¡¯ eyes light up, ¡°That¡¯s a splendid idea!¡± ¡°Ah I¡¯m glad you agree. If you stayed longer maybe you could help oversee the renovations.¡± ¡°Could you at least stay for the wedding? I don¡¯t have many guests attending.¡± ¡°Well I might be-¡± The Viscountess is cut off by Winnie, who calls out as she runs over to them. ¡°Lady Boushley, Viscountess! The Count has arrived early!¡± Caroline jumps up from her seat, ¡°What?! He wasn¡¯t scheduled to come back for another week.¡± ¡°H-He finished earlier than expected,¡± Winnie says nearly out of breath. She turns to the Viscountess.. ¡°The Count wishes to meet with you right away.¡± Chapter 12 - Eleven The Viscountess had gone to meet with the Count over an hour ago, but there was no word from her since. It was, to say the least, very odd. Both the Count, and the Viscountess were very brief and organized. Neither would have a meeting run that long. Perhaps they ''re catching up. Yes, it must be because they ''re catching up. Caroline thought this in an attempt to settle her wandering mind. Her eyelids slowly droop down, and without realizing, she falls asleep. Caroline¡¯s slumber is short due to Milly¡¯s interruption. She gently shakes Caroline awake. ¡°Milly?¡± Caroline asks as she sits up, rubbing her eyes until her vision focuses. ¡°Where have you been all day-¡± Milly frantically interrupts her, ¡°My Lady, the Viscountess is leaving!¡± ¡°What?!¡± Caroline asks, jumping up from her bed. ¡°Why is she leaving?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not sure. She suddenly announced her departure after her meeting with the Count, so I came to help prepare you-¡± ¡°There''s no need, my clothes are just fine. Where is she?¡±Caroline asks in a commanding tone. She just now takes a real look at Milly. She seemed more nervous than she usually had been; her red hair was strangely disheveled, and her right hand was bandaged. ¡°What happened to your hand?¡± ¡°Oh that,¡± Milly glances down at her hand, ¡°it¡¯s nothing really. I just broke a vase earlier and cut my hand.¡± Caroline eyes the young maid up and down. Something was off. ¡°Then why do you appear to be in so much pain?¡± ¡°It¡¯s nothing, you should tend to the Viscountess.¡± ¡°Do not lie to me.¡± Caroline sends Milly a cold look. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, my lady, I didn¡¯t wish to upset you.¡± Milly looks sincere and tries her best to give Caroline a reassuring smile. ¡°I committed a grievance, so I was rightfully punished for my actions.¡± ¡°Punished? How?!¡± Caroline asks in an uproar. ¡°Twelve lashing, but it¡¯s standard procedure, I ?ssure you.¡± Milly avoids eye contact. ¡°Standard procedure? That¡¯s barbaric!¡± "My lady, we don''t have time for this! You must go to the Viscountess." Milly raises her voice, talking Caroline aback. She reluctantly agrees after seeing how passionate Milly is about it. "Fine, I will. However, you must go to your quarters for at least the remainder of the night and rest." Milly attempts to interject, "But my lady, I''m perfectly fine-" "This isn''t up for debate. I expect you out of my bed chamber and off your feet before I come back." With that, Caroline leaves the room before Milly can get out another word. Caroline swiftly sprints down the hall to the Viscountess¡¯ bed chamber. She knocks at the door; there is no answer. ¡°Viscountess? Are you there?¡± She asks, desperation seeping from her vocal cords. ¡°Please don¡¯t-¡± The door opens. Caroline looks up with hopeful eyes, but the face she¡¯s met with is not the Viscountess¡¯ but a maid. ¡°The Viscountess is downstairs; we¡¯re loading her carriage now.¡± ¡°Thank you!¡± Caroline shouts as she dashes down the hall. She makes a sharp turn down the stairway into the foyer, where the Viscountess¡¯ is packed to leave. ¡°Please wait!¡± The Viscountess¡¯ swirls round to face her. Caroline runs down the stairs over to her. ¡°Why are you leaving so soon? I thought you might stay for the wedding. We were doing so well-¡± The Viscountess lets out a heavy sigh. ¡°I must go. I have a household to attend to, and I¡¯ve been away for far too long-¡± The Viscountess stops upon seeing the tears welding in the corner of Caroline¡¯s eyes. ¡°After you¡¯ve been wed, I will come back for a visit to see how you¡¯re doing.¡± The Viscountess smiles. ¡°And Lady Boushley, when I do return, you may call me Vivan. Afterall, we are no longer teacher and student-¡± Before she can finish her sentence Caroline pulls her into an embrace. ¡°I¡¯ll miss you-¡± The Viscountess cuts her off. She pulls her closer and whispers in Caroline¡¯s ear. ¡°That man is not the Count.¡± And with that she pulls away, leaving Caroline in disarray. The Viscountess stays calm. She grabs her coat and calls for her maid, who had come to fetch her. ¡°Ophelia, I¡¯ll wait in the carriage!¡± The maid curtsies politely before following the Viscountess out. Caroline stands there in disbelief for quite some time before being called for supper. ¡°Lady Boushley, the Count would like to see you for dinner now,¡± Edmond announces. ¡°I¡¯ll be right there.¡± Chapter 13 - Twelve The dining room somehow felt more eerie than usual. Maybe it was due to the Count¡¯s presence. Caroline hadn¡¯t spent more than ten minutes in a room with the Count prior to now, so she never quite had the chance to fully take him in, but at dinner, she had the perfect view; from across the table. The Count was only a few years older than Caroline; in his mid-twenties, he had tanned skin, short black hair, striking purple eyes, and sharp facial features. His facial expression stayed fairly neutral at all times; he wasn''t one to actively show his emotions. The door opens to reveal the knight who had accompanied him.¡°Lady Boushley, this is Sir Elton, he¡¯ll be joining us for dinner.¡± It was all making sense now. The Count had never dined with Caroline before, so she was pleasantly surprised when she was told he would be joining her. She was too hopeful; she thought that he had joined her since he was gone for so long, but the reality was, he wouldn''t be here if they didn''t have company. Caroline had heard of Sir Elton when she had lived in the capital. He was well known throughout the capital for becoming one of the youngest knights appointed; he was originally a commoner, who earned his title, and position through skill alone. Sir Elton was also fairly popular with noble ladies, due to his striking good looks; he had hazel eyes; that could only compare to emeralds, golden-brown skin, short brown hair, and was a few years younger than the Count, but was still a year or two older than Caroline, but paid no attention to them. Sir Elton sat between Caroline, and the Count; on the left side of the table. It was a neutral seat, so Caroline had ?ssumed the two weren''t too close. "It''s a p???sur? to meet you, Sir Elton," Caroline smiles warmly. "Likewise." "How was the trip?" Caroline asks. "The trip went well. It''s been a while since I''ve visited the countryside." Elton responds. Caroline looks to the Count; who doesn''t look too keen on talking. "How was the trip dear?" She asks again. Waking from his daze the Count looks to her, he responds with one word; "Fine." Before Caroline has the chance to push for a proper response Edmond comes in with dinner. Dinner consisted of soup, cod, roasted vegetables, roast mutton, and jelly; it was a lot more than Caroline normally would eat, but not for the two men who had been traveling for days. ¡°Will you be staying with us long?¡± ¡°I''m afraid not. I have things to attend to back at the capital. I''ll be leaving a few days after the wedding." "That''s a shame, I hope that you-"The Count abruptly stands up; interrupting Caroline, and Sir Elton''s conversation. "I''m finished. I''ll be retiring to my office for the evening." The Count walks out of the dining room. "Excuse me, I''ll be back shortly!" Caroline quickly follows. "My Lord, wait! I was hoping we could talk after dinner." The Count continues walking, ignoring Caroline''s words. She follows him to the end of the hall. The Count stops without warning; in front of his office, and turns around to face her. "I have work to attend to." He says coldly. "Please just tell me why the Viscountess left so suddenly! And why you are still using such barbaric methods to punish the servants-" "What happened between the Viscountess, and I is out of business. And Edmond is in charge of the servants, I had nothing to do with whatever you are referring to. Now if you''ll excuse me, I''m busy.." With that, the Count slams the door, leaving Caroline with still unanswered questions and a guest to attend to. Chapter 14 - Thirteen May 19, 1835 A few days had passed without any word from the Count. He didn''t join Caroline during mealtime again, despite Sir Elton''s presence. He spent most if not all of his time held up in his office. So Caroline carried on with her daily routine. "My Lady, how would you like your hair today?" Elisheva asked. ¡°I really liked the bun you did with the braid the other day. What was it called again?¡± ¡°A lace braided bun?¡± ¡°Yes, that.¡± Caroline had given Milly a few days off to rest, after the incident, so Elisheva, and Winnie took turns taking over her duties. The estate was severely understaffed so neither of the two were able to stay with Caroline all day as Milly normally had. This meant that Caroline could freely explore the manor, while they were away. Being the curious girl that she is, Caroline took full advantage of this new found freedom. "My lady, your hair is done." "Thank you." "I''m afraid that I must go now. Would you like me to escort you to the dining room on my way out?" "No, I don''t want to keep you. I can find my way there just fine." Caroline says, smiling brightly at Elisheva. "I''ll see you later then." Elisheva courtesies, "good day, my lady." She walks out of the room, and closes the door behind her, leaving Caroline alone. "10. 9. 8." Elisheva''s footsteps can be heard, as she walks down the hall. "7. 6. 5." As she gets further down the steps get fainter. "4. 3. 2." After ten, they are no longer audible. "1." Caroline springs up from her chair and carefully cracks open the door; to not make any noise, just enough for her head through. She peaks her head out, and looks around, after making sure that the coast is clear, she fully opens the door and walks out of the room. She closes the door behind her; before turning down the hall to her right. Caroline walks down the unfamiliar hall, as she walks further down, she approaches two grand windows to her right, a curtain is draped over them; light floods through the cracks, allowing her to see around the hall clearly. The hall was rather big compared to most; signaling that it was probably constructed later than the rest, three doors line the left side of the hall; the first door was manufactured with the finest oak wood, detailing is carved all around the leaded windows. The second is built from first; that once surrounded the estate, it''s gold plated, and arched glass stained windows lye in the center of both sides to the door. The last door is constructed from black iron, with double glazed emerald windows taking up the entirety of both sides; copper detailing is spireled over the windows. Footsteps. The sound of maple hitting the wooden flooring echoes through the hall. Unable to make it back to her room in time, Caroline walks over to the second door, grabs the golden knob, opens the door, and quickly goes inside. A loud creak comes from the doorway, startling her. She falls back onto a shelf, causing a small leather bound book to topple over into her ??p, and alerting whoever entered the library. The book is quite different from the others, the pages yellow, and worn. The sound of footfall induces panic in Caroline, something tells her to hide this book from whoever''s coming her way. She stands up, grabs two larger books, and places the smaller in between. Then pretends to be looking at the other titles on the shelf. "What are you doing here?" A low dead voice asks. Caroline looks up; to see the voice''s owner, the Count. "Sorry, my lord. Am I not allowed to be here? I got lost, and found this place. I love to read, so I thought that I''d look around." Caroline says, innocently. "No this is my-" "Lady Boushley! Lady Boushley!" Winnie can be heard calling out to Caroline from down the hall. "Nevermind. Go and see what she wants." "Yes, my lord." Caroline corsets and begins to walk away. The Count calls out to her, stopping her in her tracks. "Oh, and Lady Boushley." "Yes?" "Make sure to return those when you''re done." "Ah yes, thank you." He nods in responses, and walks down the row. Caroline let''s out a sigh as she leaves the room. "Lady Boushley!" Winnie yells, as she runs over to her. "Yes?-" "What were you doing in the Counts personal library?!" Winnie asks. "I got lost, and stumbled upon it. The Count said to return them once I''ve completed them, so I think that he''s fine with me going there." Winnie looks bewildered. "That''s weird the Count doesn''t let anyone in there." "What-" "Ah I almost forgot, it''s time for your meeting with the shoemaker. He''s in the drawing room!" Winnie grabs Caroline''s hand, and begins speed walking down the hall. "My lady, we must make haste." Caroline''s meeting with the shoemaker went well. She decided on a pair of ivory slippers for the wedding. Having not eaten all day, Caroline decides to have super early in the garden. On her way to the garden she comes across Sir Elton. "Good Afternoon Lady Boushley," Sir Elton bows politely. "Afternoon. My apologies for not coming to breakfast this morning. I wasn''t feeling well." "Are you better now?" "Yes, I was actually on my way to have supper in the garden, would you like to join me?" "I''m afraid I still have work to do-" "Please, I insist." Sir Elton is quiet for a moment, and appears to be deep in thought before giving a reply. "If you insist, I suppose that it wouldn''t hurt to join you for a few minutes." Caroline smiles brightly, as Sir Elton holds out his hand to escort her. She takes it, and the two go to the garden hand in hand. "Are you enjoying your time in the country? Or do you prefer the Capital?" Caroline asks, before taking a sip of her tea. "There are pros and cons to both. Which do you prefer?" "I only stayed in the capital briefly but I enjoyed my time there." Caroline smiles remissly, "I mostly miss the people. I don''t know many people in the country, so it''s nice to have you staying here." "I''m sorry I can''t stay longer. I''m afraid I''ll only be here for a month or so." "That''s understandable, I know that you''re quite busy. If you come to the country again, please stop by." "Do you not plan on living in the capital?" Sir Elton asks, taking a final bite of his fish. "No, i''m afraid the Count prefers the country to the capital." Elton places his napkin on his plate. "I''m sorry but I''m afraid that I have work to attend to." He says, "would you like me to escort you back to your quarters?" "No, I think that I''ll stay out here for a while, but thank you Sir Elton." "It''s my p???sur?." He kisses the back of Caroline''s hand. "And I''ll be staying here for a while, so please just call me Elton." "Then you may call me by first name as well." She says, her cheeks turning red. "Then I''ll be off.. I''ll see you at dinner Caroline." Chapter 15 - Fourteen - Diary Entry #1 August 24, 1822 This is my first journal entry since I received this for my 13th birthday. It matches the journal my twin brother, Cecile, got. He thought that journaling was a waste of time so I doubt that he''ll ever use it. Oop. I¡¯m getting off track. I almost forgot to introduce myself. I¡¯m Cybelle Edlyn Van-Allen. The first, and only daughter of the Van-Allen household. Today was a good day, I started taking riding lessons with Cecile; despite Marnie''s disapproval. Marnie says it isn''t "lady-like." Luckily my mother approved since she herself learned to ride a horse from a very young age., so Marnie reluctantly agreed. She made me agree to take both dance and piano lessons as well to make up for it; I hate the piano but at least it should get Marnie off my back for a while. I know that she''s in charge of my education but still. She could let me have a little more free rein. Ah, I gotta go, Marnie''s calling me. -Cybelle Chapter 16 - Fifteen May 22, 1835 The last few days were busy to say the least. Dressmakers, shoemakers, planners, bakers, relatives, and friends flocked from all over to prepare for the big, yet rushed event, even Caroline''s father was set to be in attendance. Those immersive few days quickly passed, and the wedding soon came. At the crack of dawn, Caroline was awoken in order to start preparing. She''s thrown in the tub, scrubbed clean, before scrubbing her teeth as well. After Winnie does her make up, and Eleshiva puts up her hair, still b?r?ly awake Caroline doesn''t make much conversation. A carriage then escorts Caroline to the chapel a few miles down the road, to finish getting ready. She''s taken up stairs, where an elderly woman, who Caroline recognizes to be the dressmaker from before, her ?ssistant, and the shoemaker are already waiting for her inside. "Ah it''s the bride! Come here, come here, try on your dress." The woman waves her over. She aboliges. The dressmaker''s ?ssistant helps Caroline into her dress, before the dressmaker sinches her in. "Are you nervous?" She asks, noticing Carolines shaking form. "Yes, a little-" "You should''ve gotten married in a few weeks, even in July if need be." The man remarks. "Why then?" "Have you never heard the phrase; "Married when the year is new, he¡¯ll be loving, kind and true. When February birds do mate, you wed not dread your fate. If you wed when March winds blow, joy and sorrow both you¡¯ll know. Marry in April when you can, joy for Maiden and for Man. Marry in the month of May, and you¡¯ll surely rue the day. Marry when June roses grow, over land and sea you¡¯ll go. Those who in July do wed, must labor for their daily bread. Whoever wed in August be, many a change is sure to see. Marry in September¡¯s shrine, your living will be rich and fine. If in October you do marry, love will come but riches tarry. If you wed in bleak November, only joys will come, remember. When December snows fall fast, marry and true love will last." "My that is nerve wracking, I''ve never heard the saying." "Daniel, stop messing with the poor girl." The woman glares at him, before looking back to Caroline, "Ignore him child, it''s just an old wise tale. If you''re marrying this fast it must be for love, or good reason. And your dress is a beautiful baby blue meaning your love will be true." The elderly woman steps back, "You''re all set my dear. How does it feel?" "A little snug." "Not too suffocating I hope." "Actually-" The shoemaker cuts Caroline off, "The boots are laced, and ready!" "Hurry dear, you don''t have much time left!" The woman waves Caroline away, and the shoemaker helps her into her boots. "My lady, we must make haste!" Milly screams as she enters the room. "Is it time already?" "Yes, we must go down stairs immediately." Milly grabs Caroline''s hand, and leads her down the hall. "Ah don''t forget your vail!" The dressmaker''s ?ssistant yells. The two stop in their tracks, and she runs after them. She carefully places it on Caroline''s head.. "You look vibrant." She smiles, "Good luck!" Chapter 17 - Sixteen - Diary Entry #2 August 28, 1822 Today was my first, and last riding lesson. At first everything was going well. My new horse, Buttercup, was sweet. She liked the treat I got her, and got along well with our hound Betsy; until Betsy started barking at something in the woods, and startled her. She began to neigh, and stood up on her hind legs, causing me to fall. I hit my head. And after that everything went black. The last thing I remember seeing is two red dots staring back at me. I woke up not even an hour later but Marnie was livid. Once Marnie stopped wailing she made me promise not to get on a horse again. And vowed to replace my riding lessons with something less dangerous. The doctor said that there wasn''t any serious damage to my head, but my foot was sprained, and I won''t be able to walk on it for a week or two. Some good did come out of this though. We¡¯re all going out to the country estate in a few days, while I recover, even father got some time off of work to come. Dissipate everything that happened, I hope that we don''t get rid of Buttercup. I know that Marnie will strongly advocate for selling her, hopefully I can convince mother to go against this. No matter what happens, at least I¡¯ll still have Betsy. - Cybelle Chapter 18 - Seventeen Caroline looked nothing less than resplendent as she walked down the aisle, yet no eyes were on her, all eyes were fixed on; the clearly grudging groom. He dressed in all blck, as if he were going to a funeral, while Caroline dressed in blue in hopes that their love would be true; if there was to be any love that is. Having no close friends in attendance Milly had the honor of being Caroline''s bridesmaid. Caroline¡¯s father walked her down the aisle. Well wobbled. He had a bit of an alcohol problem and had indulged himself in a few drinks before the ceremony. Caroline glanced at the crowd as she walked by, but recognized no one, as she approached the altar, her father unhooked his arm, and sat to her left in the front row. Caroline came to a stop, and stood to the left of the Count, and to his right stood Sir. Elton. The Bishop stood at the front of the altar, and spoke; his voice brittle, and gravelly from age. "Ladies, and gentlemen we have congregated here today to unite the Boushley household, and the Van Allen County." "If any can show a just cause why this couple shall not be joined together in holy matrimony, I implore you to speak now, or forever hold your peace." The Bishop waits a moment, the crowd holds their breath, but no one dares to utter a word. "Since there is no reason for this ceremony not to proceed, Lady Boushley will you repeat after me." The Bishop clears his throat. "I Caroline Lillian Le Boushley." Caroline''s eyes nervously look to the left at the Bishop, then to the right at the crowd before finally settling on the Count. "I Caroline Lillian Le Boushley." "Take Cecile Silas Van Allen." "Take Cecile Silas Van Allen." Caroline repeated. "To be my lawful husband, to have and to hold from this day forward." "To be my-" Caroline chokes up on her words. In the corner of her eye she spots Elton. He gives her a small smile, before mouthing "go on."Caroline looks back to the Count."To be my lawful husband, to have and to hold from this day forward." "For better, or worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part." His voice cracks. "For better, or worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part." "I swear that I will love and honor you for the rest of my life." Caroline hiccups on her words. "I swear that I will love and honor you for the rest of my days." A tear slides down her cheek. The Bishop turns to the Count. "And you sir?" "I do." "Good. Then repeat after me-"The Count cuts him off. "No need. I know it." The Count turns back to Caroline. "I Cecile Van Allen, take Caroline Lillian Le Boushley-" A boom radiates throughout the hall as the door slams open. Caroline takes a quick glance at the door, to see a red haired woman walking in. "To be my lawfully wedded wife." She looks back to the Count. "To have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part." Despite the disturbance he retains eye contact with Caroline throughout the remainder of the ceremony. "I swear that I will love and honor you for the rest of your life." His lips purse into a small smile. ? The Count said "your life," not "my life." Caroline could sense no evil intent from such a small mix up, yet something about it sent shivers down her spine. The Bishop holds out two silver rings on a small white pillow. Cecile grabs one of the rings, and slides it onto Caroline''s ring finger."In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Take and wear this ring as a sign of my love and faithfulness." Caroline picks up the other ring. "In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Take and wear this ring as a sign of my love and faithfulness." She slides it onto the Counts cold hand, and with that they were husband and wife. The couple turns to the crowd.. "Presenting the Count and Countess of Brasite." Chapter 19 - Eighteen The after party was a dreadfully boring affair at least for Caroline who wasn''t well acquainted with anyone there. The Count had more important things to attend to so Caroline was left to greet guests by herself. Most had arrived by now so Caroline began to get somewhat laxed. This does not last long, the large door slams open, springing Caroline back up to attention formation. A woman entered, who Caroline vaguely recognized from her late appearance to the ceremony. Seeing her up close; Caroline recognizes just how striking the woman''s appearance is. The woman had long silky red hair, deep black berry eyes, and smooth tawny, olive, sun kissed skin. She dressed in all black, signalling that she was in mourning. Despite being a little outdated, her dress was somehow one of the most extravagant gowns in the room. Caroline greets the woman first. "Thank you for coming." The woman turns to Caroline; making eye contact with her. Looking her in the eyes, Caroline felt pulled in. "The p???sur? is all mine, excuse my tardiness." "It''s quite alright. I''m glad you could make it." "I believe that this is the first time we''ve met. I''m Valencia Castilla." There''s a glimmer in her eyes, as she speaks. "I''m Cecile''s cousin." "Really I haven''t met much of my husband''s family." "Didn''t he tell you about me? I''ll be staying with you guys for the next few weeks, to help you get adjusted to your household duties." "What? I hadn''t heard anything about that-" Caroline''s cut off by a tap on her shoulder. She turns to see Sir. Elton. "Can I borrow you for a moment?" "Oh I-" Elton smiles. "Nothing, you just seemed a little uncomfortable greeting everyone by yourself." His smirk quickly turns into worry. "You seemed like you could use a break. I''m sure you''ve had a long day." Only a small number of guests were yet to arrive, and the Count was long gone. So who''s to stop her from having a little bit of fun. "Hm, I suppose, but only for a moment." "Of course, I couldn''t dream of stealing the hostess away for too long." Elton''s smile turned into a smirk, as he grabbed her hand. Caroline, and Elton inconspicuously slipped out of the hall, and into the garden; that they had spent so much time together over the past few weeks. The two make their way through the decrepit garden hand in hand. Once they are far enough from the party; they stop, and sit on a bench in front of what''s left of the flower patch. They talk for quite some time before leaving. ¡°Thank you, for bringing me out here, the fresh air is nice.¡± Caroline''s smile turns downward. ¡°But we should get going back.¡± Caroline lifts herself upwards, stepping on her dress in the process. ¡°Caroline we have this bond, and I know you feel it too. Don''t you?¡± His voice dripped with desperation. ¡°Elton, I''m married.¡± ¡°I know but-¡± Caroline cuts him off. ¡°We can''t. My family needs this marriage to work.¡± ¡°Your family? What family? Your father is nothing but a drunk, and a cheat, who sold you off to cover his debts. He cares not for you. And as for your brother, he¡¯s old enough to handle his own affairs-¡± ¡°But Caroline-¡± ¡°Lady Boushley, what are you doing out here?" Both Caroline, and Sir. Elton turns to see a confused Valencia. She averts Elton''s gaze. "I just came out for some fresh air. I was just leaving." Caroline puts on a fake smile. "Would you like to head back together?" "Of course." Valencia takes Caroline''s arm in hers, before walking off, leaving Elton alone in the garden. Caroline didn''t run into Sir. Elton again that day; which in honesty she thought to be the best after what had almost happened. She spent the rest of the evening mingling with the rest of her guests. Most embarked on their long journey home that night, others like Caroline''s father; who were unable to, stayed the night at the manor. Although most didn''t stay because they were passed out from having too much to drink, like he did. That night Caroline''s room was moved to the main wing of the manor since she was now a part of the Van Allen family. The room was more spacious than the one she had stayed in prior, and was directly across from her newly married husband. He was to see her that night, to consummate their marriage but he left her in wait for hours to work on God knows what in his study. Three hours in, and Caroline was no longer able to keep her eyes open, she fell asleep before her husband had arrived. Caroline knew that the Count came sometime later, and had awoken her, but after that it''s mostly all a blur.. All she could really recall after that was a searing pain in her neck. Chapter 20 - MATURE CONTENT 18+ BONUS SCENE That night Caroline''s room was moved to the main wing of the manor since she was now a part of the Van Allen family. The room was more spacious than the one she had stayed in prior and was directly across from her newly married husband. He was to see her that night, to consummate their marriage but he left her in wait for hours to work on God knows what in his study. Three hours in, and Caroline was no longer able to keep her eyes open, she fell asleep before her husband had arrived. Caroline knew that the Count came sometime later, and had awoken her, but after that, it''s mostly all a blur. All she could really recall after that was a searing pain in her neck. The events of this night are not yet revealed, or told in detail, for quite some time going forward. But, for those of you who unlocked this exclusive chapter, the following is what happened that night, from Caroline''s perspective. Please note that this is my first time writing ?r?t??a, hopefully going forward I''ll get better, there will be a few more bonus scenes in the future. I''d be thankful for honest feedback and thoughts on this! MATURE CONTENT WARNING 18+ Milly dressed me in a white lacy nightgown, before leaving me in wait for Cecile, My Lord, and now husband. I lay there waiting, for what feels like hours. Bored, alone, and overworked, I quickly find my eyes grow heavy, and fall, before I lose consciousness. "Caroline?" The Count''s gruff voice brings me back too. "Are you awake?" I sit up, still half asleep. He calls me once more. "Caroline?" "Ah yes My Lord. I am awake." I say, finally responding. My eyes now fully open, I get a good look at the Count. He appears more laid back than his usual stressful exterior. I hadn''t paid close attention to his physical appearance before, since we rarely interacted during my stay, but he''s actually quite an attractive man. He had a lean yet built figure, sharp facial features, and alluring eyes. He undid his tie, and unbuttoned the first few bu??ons on his white shot, before leaving out a sigh, as he combs his hair back with his fingers. "Do not call me that when we are alone," Cecile says, raising his voice slightly. "Call me Cecile." "Yes my apologies, Cecile-" "Yes, we''re understood-" "Good." I let out a squeak as I''m pushed down, and pinned to the bed. Cecile rests his right leg between mine, as his face approaches mine. My breath hitches, his lips only centimeters from mine. Nervous for what''s about to come, I shut my eyes. Not even a second later, his lips crash into mine. The kiss is far from gentle, it''s hard, ruff, hungry even, like the sea crashing inland. He attempts to enter my mouth, but I don''t give in. He bites my lip, hard, causing my skin to tear, and blood to escape. Taken aback, I open my mouth letting him in. Cecile pulls away, breaking the kiss, and leaving breathless. He releases my arms and moves from over top of me. He kicks off his loafers, and unbuttons his top, revealing his slim, sculpted figure. Blush spreads across my cheeks, as he climbs over me once more. He kisses me, and his tongue quickly finds its way into my mouth, and this time I don''t dare defy him. Under his touch, I feel utterly helpless. He completely dominates me in every way. His hand slides up my th??h, and grabs hold of my und?r??rm?nts. They¡¯re pulled off, and thrown across the room. With a pop, his pants are unfastened. The next few moments are quite painful as he enters me, due to his girth, and not to mention the length of it all. The pain quickly turns into p???sur?, as our marriage is consummated. His lips move from my lips to my neck, allowing a low m??n to escape my mouth. He leaves a trail of kisses down the right side of my neck, before su?k?n?, causing a bruise to form. The p???sur? builds and builds until I feel a sudden urge of both gratifaction and pain as built-up p???sur? from both of us comes out all at once.. In that moment of sheer p???sur?, he digs his teeth into the side of my neck, and drinks. Chapter 21 - Nineteen - Diary Entry #3 August 31, 1822 Today we set off for our estate in the countryside. Father is set to arrive a few days after us, so it''s just Mother, Cecile, and I. Marnie isn''t joining us, she says it''s because she has things to attend to at home, but if you ask me it''s just because she hates the country. Cecile got motion sickness, after only an hour of travelling, and has been whining ever since. At least Mother is excited though, she spent a lot of time in the countryside. Don''t tell anyone this but she promised to take me riding while we''re there. - Cybelle Chapter 22 - Twenty Brasite was a moderately sized county, located in the west part of the empire. The Van Allen household had been in control of the land for roughly over 300 years. They had lived in the capital of Brasite, Falkirk, up until Cecile took over. He moved what was left of the family to the countryside; where they now resided. Being the Countess, Caroline''s job normally would be to manage household affairs, and make sure that everything is running smoothly during the day to day at the estate. However, Valencia had forgotten to mention during their meeting that she would be taking over Caroline''s duties for the time being. According to her it''s why she had been called to the manor. Caroline had not heard nor seen her husband since the wedding night. Having nothing to do she quickly became quite gloomy to say the least. September 4, 1835 "My lady you can''t stay in bed all day!" Milly yells, as she pushes open the white curtains. "It''s nearly noon already." Caroline throws her comforter over her head, blocking the sunlight, leaking through the window. "I have nothing to do. There''s no reason for me to arise." Milly lets out a sigh. "Maybe you could have tea in the garden with Sir. Elton. I saw him about earlier today." Caroline slowly removes the blanket from overhead. "Hm, I suppose tea couldn''t hurt, since I''ve yet to eat today." "Perfect, I''ll prepare something for you to wear." Milly curties, before walking over to Caroline''s closet. Caroline washes up, and changes into a lilac gown, before heading to the garden. To her surprise she finds Sir. Elton napping under a large, blooming tree, near his normal training area. Elton looked surprisingly peaceful. He normally always looked so tense, and on guard. His brown hair covered his face. Wanting to get a good look at his face Caroline reached to push his hair back. Sir. Elton''s eyes open, her wrists grabbed, and she''s pinned to the ground. Caroline looks into his amber eyes, their faces only inches apart. Blush spreads across her ivory cheeks. "E-Elton?" Elton''s eyes widen in shock, fully waking up, and realizing who she is. "Oh Caroline it''s you." He moves back, and offers her his hand. "I''m sorry you caught me off guard." "It''s fine, I should have awoken you." She takes his hand, and he helps lift her up. "No, I''m fine." Caroline responds, remaining her composer. "I wanted to know if you''d like to have tea again today." "Ah yes of course, is it that time already?" Both parties try their best to forget the whole event, and have tws together as normal. Everyone working in the estate knew of Caroline and Elton''s close relationship. Rumors had been spreading of late that they had engaged in ?du?tery. They hadn''t. To an outsider looking in the two''s friendship might look a bit suspicious, to put it mildly, but both of them knew of their undeniable innocence. They were just friends. That''s all they could ever be.. Friends. Chapter 23 - Twenty - One - Diary Entry #4 September 5, 1822 We arrived at the estate late last night. Cecile got motion sickness, and hasn''t been able to come out much. Luckily, everyone else arrived unscathed; this almost wasn''t the case. On our way a man had fallen out in front of the carriage, scaring the horses. I strangely can''t remember much about his appearance now that I think about it. He was dressed up proper, he seemed to be a nobleman, yet he was out alone in the pouring rain. Mom went out to talk to him, she didn''t tell me what about; I''d ?ssume to see if he was robbed, or lost. During their conversation, he looked at the carriage. Something about his gaze told everything to me, to run. It felt as if he was looking through me.. Not only was his gaze chilling, he had the strangest eye color. Chapter 24 - Twenty-Two Valencia had become just as hard to meet with as Cecile. She had been given complete control over the affairs of the Countess; until Caroline had been deemed ready to take over, whenever that may be. Caroline was quite confused by this dibocial since she had already been given some training by Vivian; the Viscountess, and Valencia had not started training Caroline in any of the Countess'' duties; which would be the logical next step. It had begun to seem as though Valencia would be running the estate forever. Rumors of her being the Counts'' lover quickly spread from the estate to the capital. They seemed observed at first, but they now no longer seemed as baseless as when they had first reached Caroline''s ear. In truth Caroline had no problem with the Count having a lover, their marriage had been arranged. She didn''t expect love, but flaunting one''s lover, and holding her above one''s wife, is out of the question. And if it wasn''t for her blatant ignorance, and passive personality she might have confronted the two about; about the affair. She did not. Instead she chose to stay out of sight, out of mind, lying comfortably in luxuriously. Caroline hadn''t completely given up all hope, at least at first, she did try to reach out. September 9, 1835 "My lady!" Milly yells out, as she runs over to the Sir. Elton, and Caroline in the garden. They both turn to look in her direction. "Yes?" "Lady Castilla is out of the study!" Caroline abruptly stands up. "Elton, I''ll be back in but a moment." "Ah yes I''ll be here-" Before Sir. Elton can finish his sentence Caroline''s already off. She quickly makes her way back to the manor. Inside she encounters Valencia. "Lady Castilla!" Caroline yells to Valencia, down the hall, stopping her in her tracks. She grudgingly turns to face Caroline. "Yes?" "I''ve been trying to get a hold of you, although it''s seemed nearly impossible too, as of late." Caroline says, "I was hoping that we could discuss my duties." "I apologise, Lady Allen, but I''m afraid that I have things to attend to. Could we discuss this at supper." Valencia asks, opening the door. "Yes that would be perfect-" Valencia walks inside her study, and slams the door shut. Caroline let''s out a sigh, she feels a tap on her shoulder as she turns around to leave. "My lady," Milly says, holding out a few flowers. "I got the samples you asked for." She hands her the samples, and Caroline picks some to decorate the manor with. She anxiously awaits Valencia in the dining room, for half an hour before super is ready. "Your supper my lady." Caroline looked up to see Winnie''s smiling face, as she placed a bowl in front of her. "Thank you, but you forgot to set out another plate. Lady Castilla is set to join me this evening." Winnie''s jovial expression flips. "I''m afraid she won''t be able to join you this evening. I could ask Sir. Elton too-" "No, no it''s fine. He is not to be disturbed, he''s our guest after all." Caroline flashes her a half-turned smile. "Of course." Winnie corseties respectively. "Ring if you need anything." She turns to leave the room; Caroline stops her. "One more thing." "Yes, my lady?" "I thought that we agreed to put peonies on the tables, for a centerpiece." "Yes, you''re right." Caroline picks up her spoon. "Thank you Ms. Uruso you may go now." After this event, Caroline quickly came to realize that she was truly only Countess in name; having no real power in the estate nor outside it. But what was a woman stuck in such an unjustice world to do? Authors Note: Sorry for the lack of updates, WebNovel was having some issues updating my novel.. This issue should be resolved now. Chapter 25 - Twenty-Three September 7, 1822 The estate is just as I remember it to have been when I was just a babe. My room is the same, everything is just where I had left it. I''ve grown yet this place has stayed the same. It feels as though time here stopped when we went back to the city. This room no longer feels like mine. I''ve outgrown it. Mother suggested that I change to the Lilly wing since it''s more spacious than my current floor. It''s not really my style, but I can always do some redecorating. - Cybelle Chapter 26 - Twenty - Four Coming Soon~ Chapter 27 - Twenty - Two Valencia had become just as hard to meet with as Cecile. She had been given complete control over the affairs of the Countess; until Caroline had been deemed ready to take over, whenever that may be. Caroline was quite confused by this dibocial since she had already been given some training by Vivian; the Viscountess, and Valencia had not started training Caroline in any of the Countess'' duties; which would be the logical next step. It had begun to seem as though Valencia would be running the estate forever. Rumors of her being the Counts'' lover quickly spread from the estate to the capital. They seemed observed at first, but they now no longer seemed as baseless as when they had first reached Caroline''s ear. In truth Caroline had no problem with the Count having a lover, their marriage had been arranged. She didn''t expect love, but flaunting one''s lover, and holding her above one''s wife, is out of the question. And if it wasn''t for her blatant ignorance, and passive personality she might have confronted the two about; about the affair. She did not. Instead she chose to stay out of sight, out of mind, lying comfortably in luxuriously. Caroline hadn''t completely given up all hope, at least at first, she did try to reach out. September 9, 1835 "My lady!" Milly yells out, as she runs over to the Sir. Elton, and Caroline in the garden. They both turn to look in her direction. "Yes?" "Lady Castilla is out of the study!" Caroline abruptly stands up. "Elton, I''ll be back in but a moment." "Lady Castilla!" Caroline yells to Valencia, down the hall, stopping her in her tracks. She grudgingly turns to face Caroline. "Yes?" "I''ve been trying to get a hold of you, although it''s seemed nearly impossible too, as of late." Caroline says, "I was hoping that we could discuss my duties." "I apologise, Lady Allen, but I''m afraid that I have things to attend to. Could we discuss this at supper." Valencia asks, opening the door. "Yes that would be perfect-" Valencia walks inside her study, and slams the door shut. Caroline let''s out a sigh, she feels a tap on her shoulder as she turns around to leave. "My lady," Milly says, holding out a few flowers. "I got the samples you asked for." She hands her the samples, and Caroline picks some to decorate the manor with. After Caroline has tea with Sir. Elton before supper. She anxiously awaits Valencia in the dining room, for half an hour before super is ready. "Your supper my lady." Caroline looked up to see Winnie''s smiling face, as she placed a bowl in front of her. Winnie''s jovial expression flips. "I''m afraid she won''t be able to join you this evening. I could ask Sir. Elton too-" "No, no it''s fine. He is not to be disturbed, he''s our guest after all." Caroline flashes her a half-turned smile. "Of course." Winnie corseties respectively. "Ring if you need anything." She turns to leave the room; Caroline stops her. "One more thing." "Yes, my lady?" "I thought that we agreed to put peonies on the tables, for a centerpiece." "W-We''ll Lady Castilla''s opinion differ from yours." Winnie becomes visibly anxious. "I don''t mean to speak out of turn but my lady, is she not running the estate?" "Yes, you''re right." Caroline picks up her spoon. "Thank you Ms. Uruso you may go now." After this event, Caroline quickly came to realize that she was truly only Countess in name; having no real power in the estate nor outside it. But what was a woman stuck in such an unjustice world to do? Sorry for the lack of updates was having some issues on their end.. Hopefully this uploads. Chapter 28 - Twenty Two - DONT UNLOCK Valencia had become just as hard to meet with as Cecile. She had been given complete control over the affairs of the Countess; until Caroline had been deemed ready to take over, whenever that may be. Caroline was quite confused by this dibocial since she had already been given some training by Vivian; the Viscountess, and Valencia had not started training Caroline in any of the Countess'' duties; which would be the logical next step. It had begun to seem as though Valencia would be running the estate forever. Rumors of her being the Counts'' lover quickly spread from the estate to the capital. They seemed observed at first, but they now no longer seemed as baseless as when they had first reached Caroline''s ear. In truth Caroline had no problem with the Count having a lover, their marriage had been arranged. She didn''t expect love, but flaunting one''s lover, and holding her above one''s wife, is out of the question. And if it wasn''t for her blatant ignorance, and passive personality she might have confronted the two about; about the affair. She did not. Instead she chose to stay out of sight, out of mind, lying comfortably in luxuriously. Caroline hadn''t completely given up all hope, at least at first, she did try to reach out. September 9, 1835 "My lady!" Milly yells out, as she runs over to the Sir. Elton, and Caroline in the garden. They both turn to look in her direction. "Yes?" "Lady Castilla is out of the study!" Caroline abruptly stands up. "Elton, I''ll be back in but a moment." "Ah yes I''ll be here-" Before Sir. Elton can finish his sentence Caroline''s already off. She quickly makes her way back to the manor. Inside she encounters Valencia. "I''ve been trying to get a hold of you, although it''s seemed nearly impossible too, as of late." Caroline says, "I was hoping that we could discuss my duties." "I apologise, Lady Allen, but I''m afraid that I have things to attend to. Could we discuss this at supper." Valencia asks, opening the door. "Yes that would be perfect-" Valencia walks inside her study, and slams the door shut. Caroline let''s out a sigh, she feels a tap on her shoulder as she turns around to leave. "My lady," Milly says, holding out a few flowers. "I got the samples you asked for." She hands her the samples, and Caroline picks some to decorate the manor with. After Caroline has tea with Sir. Elton before supper. She anxiously awaits Valencia in the dining room, for half an hour before super is ready. "Your supper my lady." Caroline looked up to see Winnie''s smiling face, as she placed a bowl in front of her. "Thank you, but you forgot to set out another plate. Lady Castilla is set to join me this evening." "No, no it''s fine. He is not to be disturbed, he''s our guest after all." Caroline flashes her a half-turned smile. "Of course." Winnie corseties respectively. "Ring if you need anything." She turns to leave the room; Caroline stops her. "One more thing." "Yes, my lady?" "I thought that we agreed to put peonies on the tables, for a centerpiece." "W-We''ll Lady Castilla''s opinion differ from yours." Winnie becomes visibly anxious. "I don''t mean to speak out of turn but my lady, is she not running the estate?" "Yes, you''re right." Caroline picks up her spoon. "Thank you Ms. Uruso you may go now." After this event, Caroline quickly came to realize that she was truly only Countess in name; having no real power in the estate nor outside it. But what was a woman stuck in such an unjustice world to do? Chapter 29 - MATURE CONTENT 18+ BONUS SCENE The following events are told from Caroline''s Point of View. I leave the Count''s Library, tears fall down my cheeks, as my feet move on their own down the hall. Without giving much thought to it I find myself in front of Sir. Elton''s bed-chamber. I hesitantly lift my hand to the large wooden door, and give the door a soft knock. 1.2.3. The door opens, and Elton''s soft voice fills my ears. Caroline? What are you doing here at this hour?" I wrap my arms around his waist, and bury my head in his warm ?h?st. I try my best to form words, but all I can muster is two, "She''s dead." ?"What? Who?" He asks. I''m unable to respond, I look up at his hazel eyes; that are now full of concern. He takes his right hand, and whips a tear from my cheek, as he does so my body once again moves on my own. I lean in, and press my lips against his. Elton is taken aback by the sudden act of affection, but once he realizes what is happening, he returns the kiss; it is much different from with the Count, it''s soft, passionate, gentle even. I melt into his embrace, and we find ourselves stumbling into Elton''s room. The next thing I know his trousers are on the floor, and my dress is hicked up. I let out a squel as he enters me, unlike with Cecile it isn''t painful. He leaves a trail of kisses down my neck, these kisses turn into su?k?n?; causing a line of red bruises to form. Elton moves from my neck back to my lips, they seem to fit perfectly together. He gently kisses me. As he goes in and out, an unimeseriable feeling of p???sur? builds up in my body. A loud m??n escapes my lips. He thrusts again realsing the tension, leaving us both breathless. Elton moves off, I turn and lay on his ?h?st. "Caroline." I hear his heart begin to beat faster. "Yes?" I ask. "I love you..." I don''t give a response.. My eyes close, and I fall asleep to the sound of his heartbeat. Chapter 30 - Twenty-Six Twenty-Six September 12, 1835 Caroline had spent a few days thinking over the events subsequent to her wedding. A lot had happened since; Elton had confessed to having some feelings for her, and had kissed her in a moment of grief, despite her already being wed to Cecile, and in all honesty she had felt something for him too, but deep down she knew that it could never work. He was just a passing fancy, while marriage is forever. The two had mutually agreed to act like they never had that conversation, but for some reason Caroline was unable to get those thoughts out of her mind. They swirled around her head preventing her from resting, and she was ashamed to say that feelings had in fact grown, the more time the two spent together, the more she thought about what they could be if circumstances had differed. Caroline was able to ignore these feelings, but the longer she tried to keep them in the more they had taken hold of her mind. She could hold them no longer. She had to discuss the events of that night with him. Today. So she set off to see him. Caroline walked down to the garden as she had most days, and there he was already waiting at their spot. ¡°Elton,¡± Caroline says, startling him a bit. He turns to her, ¡°ah Caroline it''s you,¡± he says a bit nervously, ¡°I wasn''t sure if you''d come today or not.¡± She moves a bit closer to him. ¡°Of course I always do. Is there a reason for me to not?¡± She questions. ¡°Oh no there isn''t any¡­¡± Elton asks, ¡°Shall we have tea?¡± ¡°Elton, actually we should talk about the other night,¡± she pauses for a moment, ¡°about the kiss.¡± ¡°What about it-¡± ¡°Elton, whether we like it or not, I am a married woman. Nothing will change that fact, and I¡¯m afraid if I let things continue on as they have that we¡¯ll both end up getting hurt in all of this.¡± Caroline says, making the air around them grow heavy. ¡°Yes, I know. I apologize for my actions, it¡¯ll never happen again. We can forget it and go back to normal. Come let us have tea.¡± ¡°Elton...I don''t think that we should spend time alone together like this anymore.¡± ¡°Caroline, come on we can-¡± Tears welled up in the corner of her eyes, as she looks up at him. ¡°Elton, I have to go. I¡¯ll see you at dinner..¡± Caroline leaves the garden, breaking a piece of her poor knight in the process. Chapter 31 - Twenty-Seven September 15, 1835 Caroline had not seen much of Sir. Elton since they had come to an agreement. He stopped showing up for meals at the same time as her, so she was once again left to sit alone. In the long run this may have been a good thing, she thought, since he was to be leaving soon and things would return back to normal. Meals alone. Walks alone. In bed alone. Everything she did she''d do alone, and nothing had filled her heart with greater dread than the loneliness she had first felt during her time at the manor. She quickly had the Viscountess to keep her company, but she was forever gone. Then she had Sir. Elton. Even if they had made up he was to be leaving soon. She would have no one now, but the servants until she had children of course. That''s right she was to have children, that was her only real duty at the estate now that Valencia had taken over the rest. Then she wouldn''t be so alone, at least for a little, and she''d have something to do. Those thoughts provided a small glimmer of hope in the depths of despair her mind was in, but the isolation was slowly breaking her; the loneliness had begun to consume her. ¡°My Lady, why don¡¯t you have tea in the garden today?¡± Milly suggests to Caroline, her voice full of both hope and concern, ¡°It has been quite a while since you did that. Perhaps Sir. Elton would join you-¡± ¡°Ms.Winsor please focus on getting me ready for the day, what I do is my business, and you¡¯ve still yet to prepare my outfit,¡± Caroline replies. ¡°Yes, I apologize if I¡¯ve spoken out of turn, it was purely out of concern for you my lady." Caroline stays quiet for a moment, before responding. "If it eases your worry, I will go on a walk in the garden today." Milly lets out a sigh of relief, and smiles brightly. "Thank you, I shall get your outside wear!" She picks out a warm blue gown for Caroline to wear, and commences with the rest of their morning routine. Caroline had breakfast, by herself, then went to the library as she did most days. After she had found a new book to read, she went for a walk in the garden. She had decided to read there while she still could, since winter would soon come. The walk was surprisingly quite peaceful. It was nice for Caroline to get some fresh air, after many days cooped up inside. As she walked in the garden looking for a place to read, she stepped in something sticky. She looked down at her feet, and her face twists in horror. As she lets out a blood curdling scream, and falls back onto the hard dirt; that had begun to freeze over. ¡°Caroline?!¡± Sir. Elton yells out, as he runs over to her. He stops in his tracks, once he sees what had frightened her, so. One of the hunting dogs had, had an unfortunate accident, it appeared as though it had been attacked by a wild animal of sorts. This was surely a bad omen. Author''s Note: Sorry for the slow updates, I was on vacation for the holidays, and I''ve been working on something new for you guys! I promise to try and be little faster in the future. Chapter 32 - Twenty-Eight There was nowhere left for Caroline to run. The woods were an endless maze, she was exhausted, and injured. They surely had found out that she had escaped by now, they would be looking for her, they would be close, so despite it all she limped on through the wilderness, in search of the road. She hoped to find help there. There had been a terrible storm a few weeks prior to Caroline¡¯s escape. The forest had been hit by lightning, and one of the trees had fallen over. It had driven the roots up from the ground, but due to the dark, she could not see them. She tripped, and toppled over. Footsteps. She had been found. She looks to her right, as her captor steps out of the shadows. ¡°Found you.¡± Desperate to get away she grips the dirt, and pulls up, trying her very hardest to crawl away. Caroline¡¯s pursuer steps on her wrist, stopping her from moving. She lets out a m??n in pain. ¡°You really thought that you could escape?¡± Caroline¡¯s chaser picks up a large rock, next to her. ¡°No one ever gets away¡­¡± The last thing Caroline see¡¯s before she¡¯s bashed over the head. Is their deep purple eyes. September 18, 1835 Caroline wakes up drenched in a sweat. She lets out a scream, ¡°Ms. Windsor!¡± She rings the bell, on her bedside table. Milly rushes in. ¡°My Lady, are you alright?¡± Mill asks, running to her side. ¡°Was it that dream again?¡± Caroline silently nods, choking on her tears. Milly pulls her into an embrace, and holds her, as she cries. ¡°You¡¯re alright now, nothing can hurt you here.¡± Since the death of the estates finest hunting dog, Caroline had begun having nightmares. In each she met a more gruesome fate. Rumors had begun circulating that the Countess had been cursed. Caroline had tried telling the Count of the omen her and Sir. Elton had discovered but he would hear none of it. And insisted that it was nothing but a wild animal. He was a man of reason after all, and did not believe in omens, nor curse of any sort.. Yet the dreams still plagued the Countess. What could it be other than an augury? Chapter 33 - Twenty-Eight There was nowhere left for Caroline to run. The woods were an endless maze, she was exhausted, and injured. They surely had found out that she had escaped by now, they would be looking for her, they would be close, so despite it all she limped on through the wilderness, in search of the road. She hoped to find help there. There had been a terrible storm a few weeks prior to Caroline¡¯s escape. The forest had been hit by lightning, and one of the trees had fallen over. It had driven the roots up from the ground, but due to the dark, she could not see them. She tripped, and toppled over. Footsteps. She had been found. She looks to her right, as her captor steps out of the shadows. ¡°Found you.¡± Desperate to get away she grips the dirt, and pulls up, trying her very hardest to crawl away. Caroline¡¯s pursuer steps on her wrist, stopping her from moving. She lets out a m??n in pain. ¡°You really thought that you could escape?¡± Caroline¡¯s chaser picks up a large rock, next to her. ¡°No one ever gets away¡­¡± September 18, 1835 Caroline wakes up drenched in a sweat. She lets out a scream, ¡°Ms. Windsor!¡± She rings the bell, on her bedside table. Milly rushes in. ¡°My Lady, are you alright?¡± Mill asks, running to her side. ¡°Was it that dream again?¡± Caroline silently nods, choking on her tears. Milly pulls her into an embrace, and holds her, as she cries. ¡°You¡¯re alright now, nothing can hurt you here.¡± Since the death of the estates finest hunting dog, Caroline had begun having nightmares. In each she met a more gruesome fate. Rumors had begun circulating that the Countess had been cursed. Caroline had tried telling the Count of the omen her and Sir. Elton had discovered but he would hear none of it. And insisted that it was nothing but a wild animal. He was a man of reason after all, and did not believe in omens, nor curse of any sort. Yet the dreams still plagued the Countess. What could it be other than an augury? Author''s Note: Sorry for how short the chapter is! I''ll try my best to elongate them in the future, and thank you for all your support thus far, I''ll be attempting to update on a more regular basis, hopefully, I''ll be able to create a set update schedule soon.