Chapter 36 The Coming of Spring

Cecile, cup-bearer to the Lord of Korelia

The blossoming romance between Lord Lansius and Captain Audrey became the talk of the castle. A love story between a noble and someone of humble origins never failed to capture the people’s hearts. As a cup-bearer, Cecile had a front-row seat to the unfolding drama. Initially skeptical, she eventually grew to appreciate the couple.

Cecile realized that the staff’s interest in the love story stemmed from Audrey’s background, which mirrored their own. Most of the staff came from esquire families, unlike Cecile, whose father was a knight.

Esquires, being descendants of squires or knights, occupied a unique social position – not quite noble, but more than mere commoners. Lower nobility status was not hereditary and ended with the passing of the individual.

Many of the younger staff members became engrossed in this tale of love transcending social boundaries. The skald, a soldier bard by the name of Sigmund, clandestinely fueled their fascination with songs of epic and forbidden love on the battlefield.

For them, Audrey represented their hopes and dreams. However, the older staff members disapproved of such a union, fearing it could end in tragedy.

Cecile’s initial impression of Audrey wasn’t favorable; the Lady Captain’s intense gaze had been unnerving. Not even Cecile’s knight father had displayed such ferocity during training sessions.

Yet, beneath her intimidating exterior, Audrey proved to be warm and helpful. Cecile discovered that this kindness came naturally, even when Audrey tried to suppress it.

Over time, Cecile and Audrey formed a bond. As the highest-ranking females, they became the protectors of the female staff, with Audrey as the matriarch and Cecile serving as her second. Any complaints of harassment would be brought to them for resolution.

Thankfully, such incidents were rare in Lord Lansius’ household, where discipline was strictly upheld. The Korelian troops, unlike those in other baronies, received regular payments and supplies, making them a small but proficient force.

This peaceful environment was also due to Lord Lansius himself, who did not engage in womanizing and treated his female staff with respect.

Similarly, Lady Audrey, despite her rank and close relationship with the Lord of the castle, integrated seamlessly with the staff. Though occasionally brash, her behavior was likely influenced by her background as a squire. Cecile would remind herself that Audrey was not raised to be a lady in waiting; she was a fighter at heart.

Once, Cecile asked Audrey why she become a squire.

Audrey explained that her knight master, Isulde, had made that decision for her. As a child, Audrey had been a servant in a baronet’s household. When a bear threatened their lands, the baronet enlisted Isulde, a famed huntress, to handle the situation. Unable to afford a sufficient payment, the baronet offered Audrey to Isulde instead.

This was not an uncommon occurrence. Baronets, being merely wealthier versions of knights, often struggled financially, as Cecile knew from her own family’s experiences.

Despite the story of hardship, Cecile was envious of Audrey. As Captain, Audrey displayed exceptional swordsmanship and horsemanship, surpassing many male counterparts.

Although Cecile was proud of her own riding skills, Audrey was in a league of her own. Just a few more accomplishments would earn Audrey knighthood. Moreover, with the Lord’s love, her future seemed secure.

However, life rarely unfolds as one hopes, as Cecile later learned.

During the long winter months, the female staff slept together in a large chamber with better heating, while the male staff, squires, and troops occupied the Great Hall. Since Korelia was a small castle, only Lord Lansius had a decent fireplace inside his room.

One night, while they were together, Audrey casually revealed her vendetta to the servants, who were curious about her background. It was a story that even Cecile had not heard before.

Audrey told them that her ultimate goal was to defeat the beast that had killed her knight master and the rest of her group. The survivors from that tragedy were mostly the younger generation who had made a promise to gather again once they were older to hunt down the beast.

When a servant asked about the strength of the beast, Audrey admitted that it was more than just powerful; it was a monstrous entity. She also confessed that she doubted they would win. Compared to her master, an extraordinary Mage Knight, and a member of the Hunter Guild, Audrey felt that she didn’t hold a candle in comparison.

The bottom line was that Audrey knew they were unlikely to win, but she was determined to try. Revenge or death, that was her goal.

Cecile felt both pity and envy for this female warrior. She understood that Audrey’s status as a squire and her oath prevented her from responding to Lord Lansius’s advances. If Audrey were to wed him and have his child, it would be difficult for her to fulfill her oath.

When Cecile asked if Lord Lansius knew, Audrey nodded. As the old staff had warned them, this kind of relationship rarely ended well. Their words proved to be prophetic.

Winter finally came to an end, marked by the melting snow on the roof.

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Cecile cleared her thoughts and knocked softly, twice. “Excuse me, My Lord. It’s Cecile.”

“Come in,” came the response from within.

As she opened the solid wooden door, Cecile found the Lord engrossed at his desk, clad in his blue doublet as if it were a warm coat.

“Just a moment,” he said without looking up.

Cecile understood that he was deep in thought. “Yes, My Lord,” she replied politely. Without needing instruction, she replaced the water jug on the table, prepared a clean cup, and poured water into it. Then she patiently waited.

Cecile had adjusted quickly to her new role. Her upbringing as a lady-in-waiting had prepared her well. She knew how to appear engaged while waiting, to avoid prying, and to keep her opinions to herself unless asked.

Her tutor had also cautioned her against being overly sociable, to recognize her status, and to prioritize her master above all. However, Cecile had never anticipated becoming a cup-bearer, a position of considerable influence.

A cup-bearer was a trusted confidant who not only attended to the Lord but also accompanied him throughout the day. The Lord valued her advice and commentary. The role signified complete trust, as a lord would only drink from a cup prepared by the cup-bearer.

Yet, Cecile’s appointment was unusual. Typically, a Lord chose a long-time friend or someone he trusted implicitly. It was rare to select someone he had never met before. Initially, Cecile had been uncertain about the arrangement.

She knew she had acquired the position due to her father’s switch of allegiance to Lord Lansius. Regardless, she refused to let this fact deter her. She recognized the opportunity it presented for her House and was determined to give it her all.

It wasn’t long before the Lord finished his work. “Apologies for the wait. Please, take a seat,” he said, approaching the table and drinking from the cup.

He preferred water in the morning and a pale ale during lunch and supper, with his only stipulation being that the water must be boiled to ensure purity.

“Have you eaten?” he asked once Cecile was seated.

“Yes, My Lord. Your servant had some porridge this morning.”

“Was it good?”

She nodded politely. “It was, My Lord. It was warm and hearty.”

“Ah, that’s good to hear. Umm… I still have some fresh bread that Sterling brought this morning. Feel free to take a slice or two.”

“Thank you, My Lord, but your servant must decline.”

The Lord smiled and settled into his seat.

Raised among nobility where social grace was paramount, Cecile could easily tell that the Lord wasn’t fond of small talk. Nevertheless, he made the effort, even for a subject like her. Having spent the entire winter in his company, Cecile recognized the lord’s genuine friendliness.

Unlike many nobles who sought to exert power and control, the Lord of Korelia was approachable. He treated his subjects fairly as if they were family. The castle’s discipline was primarily maintained by Hugo, the Marshal deputy, and to a lesser extent, by Audrey as the Captain.

Cecile was uncertain about the arrangement’s effectiveness, but the castle staff appeared content and in high spirits.

“Today let's visit the workshops to check on working conditions. Let’s go incognito,” the Lord announced from his seat.

“Understood, I will need to fetch my traveling cloak—”

“Yes, please do. There’s no need to rush. We have plenty of time," he said cheerfully.

“…But first, My Lord,” Cecile hesitated.

The Lord noticed. “Speak up. What’s on your mind?”

“Thank you, My Lord. It’s about my father, Sir Callahan. Your letter to Midlandia ensured he received the best treatment possible.”

The Lord nodded his head. “Ah, think nothing of it. It’s my duty to care for my retainers. How is he? Is he recovering well?”

“Indeed, My Lord. I received a letter this morning. Father’s injury has completely healed. Before, even the night’s chill caused him pain, but afterward, he could endure winter just like everyone else.”

“I’m happy to hear that,” he said with a smile. “You should visit him. After being confined to the castle all winter... How about taking a week or two off, starting tomorrow?”

Cecile was taken aback by the sudden offer.

“If the messenger was able to deliver the letter, the roads should be clear of snow by now... Oh, take a bag of salt, some fur, and freshly made meat products as gifts. I hope that’s enough,” the lord said casually as if those were not valuable goods.

Overwhelmed, Cecile fell to her knees. “M-My Lord, you’re too kind. How could we ever repay this?” She trembled. Deeply homesick, Cecile had never expected to see her home again after her appointment. Yet she had been granted a visit last season and now another opportunity arose.

The Lord was taken aback. “Please, Cecile, there’s no need for this. Stand up.”

“My Lord, you arranged for a Saint Candidate to heal my father and paid for the treatment. My House and I are forever indebted to you. Please, at least let me pledge my loyalty.”

“But I already accepted your oath as cup-bearer, remember? Cecile, please stand up,” he urged her again and even extended his hand, but Cecile refused.

She knew her family had never experienced such generosity. Despite the hair color and the knight status, her once-great House had fallen. Aside from her father’s horse and the armor set, they were no better than the average townsfolk in Midlandia.

The treatment by a Saint Candidate for her father was already a luxury and now a considerable gift was promised. That would easily secure her family’s livelihood for another year or two.

“I, Cecile, daughter of Sir Callahan, pledge my life in your service, My Lord,” she declared solemnly.

“That’s too much, Cecile. It’s unwise,” Lansius admonished her.

His disapproval surprised Cecile, who assumed her pledge had been rejected.

Lansius sighed deeply. “Listen... we’re likely heading into war soon.”

“War, My Lord?” Cecile asked, holding back tears.

“Yes, and probably against a larger force. I can’t guarantee victory, so I don’t want you to risk your life for me. Pledge it to someone you love dearly instead.”

His paternal-like words touched her deeply. Lansius didn’t behave like a typical lord, eager to accept any loyalty pledge from his retainers. He genuinely cared for their well-being.

“My Lord, forgive me, but even if you refuse, it’s my wish to serve you.”

The lord sighed again. “How old are you, Cecile?”

“I’m turning 16 this year, My Lord.”

“You’re too young to make such a weighty commitment. You have a long life ahead of you, and I don’t want you to have any regrets later on.”

“My Lord, your words are too kind, I’m just a servant...”

Lansius extended his hand once more, and this time Cecile accepted. She stood up, her face flushed and eyes glistening with emotion.

“Cecile, you may take a rest for today. I’ll have Sterling accompany me.”

“There’s no need, My Lord. I will fetch my cloak promptly.” She left the chamber and hurried to her room, her dull blonde hair flowing behind her as she ran.

In the lawless province of Lowlandia, where loyalty and mercy were rare virtues, Cecile discovered a Lord who stood apart from the rest. Her heart swelled with pride after pledging herself to her Lord’s cause. From now on, their fates would be intertwined.

His fall would be her downfall. Cecile was determined to serve a noble who truly deserved her unwavering allegiance.

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PS: Editing several chapters back to back is quite deadly... rip. If you find anything wrong, please let me know in the comment. I'll fix it tomorrow.

The Art Cover is made by Hakim, be sure to thank him in Discord if you like his art. ❤️

I hope you find the story well. And as always, thank you for your Awesome Support! 💯