Sienna rode home later that afternoon, alone. The Koskovs had been summoned back to the manse at Smyth’s request, shuffled along by her father’s own men. Sienna had been offered a space in the carriage, which she declined. There had still been discussions to be had with Nalus, which went nowhere, and quiet pleading with Viola, which went worse. She nodded to the guards. It had been somewhat funny to see guards trying to hide […]

Viola scowled, and sat back down in the great chair. “So the fools have not been in court in a few weeks.” “Months,” Nalus corrected. “And it is difficult to attend court when you do not hold it.” “It has been a busy few months,” Viola said. “I was getting used to ruling.” “It is more than that, Viola.” Nalus said. “The nobles think you do not respect them.” “That is not true.” Viola said. […]

Viola sighed, and slid down with grace from Willow Sam’s arms. She set Ivan down, and patted his head. “Nadia, you are raising such wonderful children.” Viola said to the descending Koskov. “Truly a testament to your work and love.” “My thanks countess.” Nadia said. she cradled her youngest tight, smiling. Sienna cleared her throat, and looked down from the balcony. “Perhaps the Koskovs could enjoy the gardens for a time, countess?” She asked. “Nalus […]

Nadia struggled back to her feet. The children were up as well, apologetic. They had pressed too far, had been too bold. They had interrupted the countess’s questions, even worse. Viola coldly looked at them in turn. “I expect answers for questions I ask,” she said icily. “Ivan, you should know this, even with the unexpected arrival of your mother.” “Yes, countess,” Ivan said. “Now, how are your studies?” “I’m reading go…well,” he said. “And […]

“Lady Sienna and her…wards, have arrived, countess.” Viola gasped, and squealed. Sienna! Sienna was here! “She is?!? All right, let’s put together a little feast. And then we need toys, and get Nadia over here…” Nalus cleared his throat. Viola calmed, and looked to the butler who had spoken. “Um, right. Ahem,” She took on an air, and nodded her head to the butler. “Let lady Sienna and the Koskov children know that we shall […]

“This is of tantamount importance. The manse, nay, even the entire valley, may depend upon this decision.” Viola frowned, torn in indecision. “Are cream puffs in fashion now, or perhaps eclairs?” The cooks had joined her on the terrace, with an arrangement of baked goods for her to sample. The countess was trying to decide upon a theme, and it could not be overstated just how refined this choice must be. She plucked a particularly […]