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Codex 0: Sequentia I: Fragmentum XIV: Baron Rolland Visits

  A year before Kevin’s arrival to Raven’s Crest.

  In the heart of Raven’s Crest vilge, the baroness's castle buzzes with activity. Servants hurry through the stone corridors, crafting culinary delights in the kitchen, polishing every surface in the grand hall, and meticulously tending to the castle gardens. The vilge's own residents, who were recruited as guards, stood sentinel at the entrance. Despite cking formal training, their genuine dedication and commitment are evident, their simple uniforms worn with pride. The air is alive with the coordinated efforts of the vilgers and the palpable sense of community, ensuring banquet tables are adorned with the finest linens and guest rooms exude comfort and charm. The desote castle now hums with purpose.

  Tia is watching the lively castle. ‘The castle has been quite lively since yesterday. Mother has specially permitted the guards to enter the castle to stand guard and instructed maids to prepare lunch and dinner.

  ‘Due to mother’s adept diplomacy, Sir Rolnd, the neighboring baron, is on his way to visit with his wife and daughter.

  ‘According to the gossiping maids, Baron's 5th son abducted mother from a vilge in Baron Rolnd’s territory. But it was destroyed a few years back due to a monster attack. Everyone reted to mother died in the vilge. I don’t know if it is good luck that she escaped the monster attack, or bad luck that she was brought to the ravencrest and lost her entire family.’

  As the afternoon sun climbs, a procession takes shape at the vilge's forefront. Carriages, elegantly drawn by horses, lead the way with Baron Rolnd's soldiers marching in formation. Vilgers lined the road in eager anticipation as the procession approached, creating a moment of grandeur in anticipation of Baron Rolnd's arrival. Escorted by his soldiers, the carriages made their way to RavenCrest Castle.

  At the castle's entrance, Sera, Vina, and Tia stood in anticipation, having received the message of the baron's arrival. Sera wore a rich gown that mirrors the hues of RavenCrest. Her gown, elegant and regal, is adorned with intricate embroidery. A circlet, embedded with a RavenCrest gem, rests upon her bck hair, adding a touch of noble grace to her appearance.

  Vina dons a gown that reflects her free-spirited nature. The fabric, in shades reminiscent of a forest, is embellished with subtle leaf patterns. A simple yet charming headdress of woven vines adorns her hair, giving her an air of natural beauty.

  Tia, wears a gown in serene, celestial blues. A crescent moon pendant hangs gracefully around her neck.

  Tia thought, ‘since my mother became a baroness, this is the first time someone is visiting.’

  Accompanying Sera are Emma, Sera's chief steward, dressed in a flowing gown and stands as a poised and capable Lady. Her chestnut-brown tresses gracefully frame her face.

  Sir Aric, responsible for the security of the territory, stands tall in his armor, bearing the emblem of RavenCrest.

  Lady Era, the head maid, wears a gown of muted earth tones, practical yet dignified.

  Priest Benedict, cd in priestly robes, exudes an aura of spiritual wisdom. And other staff who are in charge of various tasks are also present to welcome the baron.

  ‘It’s a good opportunity to observe Baron Rolnd and his family.’ Priest Benedict thought.

  As Baron Rolnd's carriages approached, his soldiers formed a protective perimeter around the carriages. The soldiers, bearing the baron's crest, ensured a secure and orderly arrival.

  The baron's carriage came to a halt near Sera's group. As the door opened, Baron Rolnd descended. In his mid-twenties, he presented a slim figure with delicate features, blonde hair, a cleanly shaved face, and distinctive yellow pupils. His attire, a red shirt paired with bck pants, exuded a subtle elegance.

  As the baron extended his hand towards the carriage, Eleanor, his wife, gracefully accepted it for support and descended along with her daughter. In her early twenties, cascading blonde waves framed her delicate face, and sparkling green eyes added depth. A curvy figure enhanced her allure, adorned in an orange regal gown with intricate embroidery and various jewelry, radiating regality and grace.

  Except for Sera and Benedict, who maintain their composure, everyone present in the scene is instantly captivated by Eleanor's beauty.

  'Wow! This is my first time seeing someone more beautiful than Mother. She seems more like a rich dy than a noble one.' Tia marveled. 'Mom always said that beyond the vilge, there are many who surpass her in beauty. Now I understand.'

  Following Eleanor, a girl of around 7 emerges from the carriage, bearing striking simirities to her mother. Her blonde hair is styled in a neat braid, and she exudes youthful innocence.

  As the trio approached Sera, Sir Aric observed, ‘His gait and slightly dropped shoulders show his ck of self-confidence. He seems to be a pampered young master.’

  Baron Rolnd bowed, “Greetings, Baroness Sera RavenCrest. I am Rolnd Ravenshield. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

  “Greetings Baron Rolnd. Welcome to Raven’s Crest. It’s a delight to make your acquaintance.” Sera greeted by slightly lifting her skirt with her fingers.

  “This is my wife, Eleanor.”

  “Eleanor Ravenshield. Pleased to make your acquaintance, Madam Sera.” Eleanor made a curtsy in a sweet voice.

  “Pleased to meet you too, Madam Eleanor,” Sera lifted her skirt slightly.

  “This is my daughter, Liora.”

  “Liora Ravenshield. Nice to meet you, Madam Baroness.” Liora curtsied adorably.

  Sera smiled, “Nice to meet you too, young dy.”

  “These are my children, Vina and Tia.”

  “Vina Ravencrest, nice to meet you Sir Baron, Madam Eleanor, Miss Liora.” Vina lifted her gown slightly.

  “Madam Eleanor, you are very beautiful.” Vina complemented.

  “Thank you, vina. You are sweet.” Eleanor chuckled.

  “Tia Ravencrest, nice to meet you.” Tia followed suit.

  “Nice to meet you, young dies.”

  “These are Emma, my chief steward, Sir Aric, the guard commander, and Sir Benedict, the priest of the shrine.” Sera introduced everyone present.

  Baron Rolnd took the opportunity to introduce his accompanying staff, "Allow me to introduce my esteemed companions."

  He gestured towards a knight, adorned in a finely crafted armor dispying the baron's crest.

  "This is Sir Everard, my trusted knight. Sir Cedric, my advisor.”

  The entourage extended to his steward and herald who bore the baron's insignia proudly.

  After exchanging pleasantries, Sera said, “Let's go inside the castle. You must be very tired due to your journey. Take some rest and join us for lunch sometime. We can discuss the official matters after lunch.”

  “Alright, we will be in your care.”

  “It’s a pleasure.”

  Copyright ? [2024] [The Rainy Imp]. All rights reserved.

  After a period of rest and refreshment, Sera, accompanied by her children, and Baron Rolnd with his family, reconvened for a friendly lunch.

  Noting the etiquette contrast between the baron's family and Sera's, Emma thought, 'Due to her commoner origins, the baroness cks training in this area, unlike those of noble birth who learn and practice from childhood. Later, I should suggest she learn proper etiquette and extend the lessons to the staff.'

  Then, the group proceeded to the Baronial Chamber, to delve into official matters and engage in discussions.

  It’s a spacious room, adorned with rich tapestries depicting the history of the territory, and rge windows allowed ample natural light to cascade across polished wooden tables.

  The centerpiece of the chamber was a grand oak table, its surface gleaming with a meticulous polish. A rge map, illustrating the territories under the baronesses' jurisdiction, y spread across the table.

  Everyone assumed their pces around the grand oak table. Sera, accompanied by her children Vina and Tia, took seats representing RavenCrest. Emma, Aric, and Benedict positioned themselves strategically.

  On the opposite side, Baron Rolnd, alongside his wife and daughter, cimed their spots. Knight Everard, advisor Cedric, and the steward settled around him.

  As the discussions were about to commence, Baron Rolnd's advisor, Cedric, suggested, "Sir, madam, perhaps we should allow the children to tour around the castle. These discussions might be boring for them."

  "No need," Sera and Eleanor, rejected at the same time.

  Surprised by the simultaneous agreement, Sera and Eleanor exchanged amused gnces and smiled.

  "There's no need, Mr. Cedric. They are the children of the nobles and future heirs. It's essential for them to find opportunities to be involved in state matters; this will be a valuable experience," Sera asserted.

  "I share the same opinion. The castle tour can be done ter; we will have plenty of time for that," Eleanor concurred looking at Sera, her tone carrying a slight mischievous hint.

  "Alright," Cedric conceded with a wry smile.

  Looking at the two women, everyone in the room is amused.

  "Perhaps they share a simir character," Emma thought.

  Sera initiated, "Let's begin. Our first agenda today concerns the security along the road. With the recent growth in trade between our territories, the number of travelers has increased. However, this may attract potential thieves causing trouble in the future. I suggest we establish regur patrol teams to monitor the path."

  "I agree," Rolnd promptly voiced his support.

  "Our next topic concerns the taxes during trade. I propose we apply standard rates for everyone."

  "I am okay with it too. However, we should revisit and revise these rates after a few years."

  "Okay. Next is mutual defense and support. In case of monster attacks or bandits, we can agree to send a part of our forces as reinforcement."

  "Agreed, but I'd like to add something. In the event of monster attacks, if possible, allow people closer to your borders to temporarily retreat to your nds. Once everything is settled, they can return. The same applies to us as well." Said Rolnd.

  “No problem.”

  "Additionally, I suggest sending some of your guards to the countess. Request her to train them into proper soldiers, so they could return and train others. We are doing the same," Rolnd proposed.

  After some contemption, Sera turned to Aric and asked, "Is it okay with you?"

  "Yes, Madam Sera. It will be very helpful." Aric confirmed.

  "Thank you for your suggestion, Sir Rolnd. We will proceed as you mentioned," Sera acknowledged.

  "Next, something I've been considering recently. I'm thinking of developing a sewage system in all the vilges. I would like to ask if Sir Rolnd wants to participate," Sera proposed.

  Rolnd looked confused. Cedric interjected, "Madam Sera, this is not a small task. It will require a lot of effort and money."

  "That's true, but considering public health and future development, it is better to take this step," Sera argued. Turning to Rolnd, she asked, "What do you say, Sir Rolnd?"

  Rolnd began to feel shaky, his eyes darting around as he stammered, "Th-This is..."

  He then turned to his wife. Eleanor smiled gently and pced her hand on his thigh below the table, offering reassurance. Rolnd visibly calmed down, his eyes lighting up.

  He turned to Sera and replied, "We will participate."

  Observing this scene, the people on Rolnd’s side closed their eyes or looked away, as they are already used to this.

  Those in Sera's group looked baffled.

  While Vina and Liora became confused by everyone's expressions, unable to understand the mood, Sera broke the awkward silence by saying, "Yes. Then the next topic is..." and they continued to discuss various matters.

  Most of the time Rolnd dealt with the issues as if he had practiced previously. Sometimes he seemed afraid as if he was a student who made mistakes and afraid of punishment in front of his teacher. Before making any new decisions, he always looked for his wife for her approval.

  ‘It seems like the rumors about Rolnd being a coward are true,’ Aric thought.

  ‘The one who is truly in charge is his wife, it seems,’ Emma specuted.

  ‘She is controlling him quite well,’ Benedict pondered. ‘Maybe this is a good thing; at least she seems to be genuinely trying to benefit the territory considering the current flow. With his cowardice, he might ruin the nd if maniputed by someone malicious.’

  Tia, on the other hand, wondered, 'Wow! Is this what a henpecked husband is?'

  The discussions continued until nightfall.

  Copyright ? [2024] [The Rainy Imp]. All rights reserved.

  After concluding the official business, everyone rexed. Subsequently, they gathered for a delightful dinner. Following the meal, Emma, Benedict, and Aric, along with the other guards, servants, and maids, left the castle as per sera’s instructions.

  Eleanor instructed the soldiers who had accompanied them, “Everyone, you may take rest in your rooms; you must be weary from the journey.”

  “But madam, what about security?” asked Everard, appearing concerned.

  “You don’t have to worry. I trust Baroness Sera’s arrangements. Take proper rest.”

  “Okay, madam.” Everard took his leave along with his soldiers.

  She also asked the staff who followed to retire. "You may also take your rest."

  "But madam?”

  “Don’t worry; I only want to have a friendly conversation.”

  “Alright.” Everyone thus returned to their rooms to rest.

  “Then, Sir Rolnd, Madam Eleanor, let's go to our garden. I have arranged for refreshments. We can have a rexing chat over there.” Sera suggested.

  “Okay,” Eleanor nodded with a smile.

  Sera, Vina, Tia, Rolnd, Eleanor, and Liora strolled to the garden under the open sky, bathed in the enchanting full moonlight. A table with chairs and refreshments awaited them at the garden's center.

  As they reached the table, Eleanor grabbed Sera's hand stopping her in her tracks. With a gentle squeeze, she approached Sera closer. In the soft glow of the moonlight, rustling leaves in the gentle night breeze, amid everyone’s confused gazes, Eleanor leaned in, held Sera by the waist, and gave a deep kiss.

  Copyright ? [2024] [The Rainy Imp]. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright w. For permission requests, contact the publisher at [[email protected]].

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