Under a Dimmed Sun [UNCENSORED]

SII: Chapter XXXIII: Silent Prayer

Within the hallowed halls of the Mohn estate's small chapel, dappled sunlight filtered through age-old stained glass, casting a kaleidoscope of colors upon the worn wooden pews. The air, heavy with the scent of beeswax candles, carried an undertone of ancient reverence. Alice could feel the weight of history in the stones beneath her feet, worn smooth by the countless prayers uttered over generations.

As the incense swirled and the chapel echoed with hushed footsteps, Madam Mohn and her maids, each cloaked in their own thoughts, gathered for their daily morning ritual. The altar, adorned with carvings of saints, bore witness to years of whispered supplications.

Amidst this sacred stillness, Albert of Mohn knelt in silent prayer. Madam Mohn, with a rosary entwined in her delicate fingers, sent fervent petitions into the ethereal realm. Alice, her emerald gown blending with the natural tones of the chapel, clasped her hands in an earnest plea, her thoughts a tumultuous swirl of uncertainties.

Though not inherently religious, she found herself caught in the currents of the Mohns' devotions. Alice, whispering in her heart:

"Dear our Lord in heaven, benevolent Creator, forgive the multitude of sins that have marked my path. I have been a vile child. Though, I am now carrying a divine gift, a testament to the love I once shared with Peter, a love that has strayed from the righteous path. Yet, within this unborn child lies innocence untarnished. Grant, I beseech thee, health, safety, and a heart filled with joy for my poor child. Bless this child with the love of this family and perhaps even prosperity or status. I extend forgiveness to myself and to Peter. May he find solace in happiness, and may I, too, discover a glimmer of joy as I nurture our child. Though parted from him, I find solace in the presence of the part of him that resides within me." As she pauses her words, a single, silent tear found its way down Alice's cheek.

She continues:
"Though I am perhaps deserving of the pain that engulfs my heart, I pray that this shall be the final chapter where tears fall for my beloved Peter. Henceforth, I shall endeavor to lead my life with earnest purpose. O Lord, our loving and forgiving lord, grant me the strength to face the days ahead. Amen."

As she delicately brushed away her tear, she completed the prayer with sign of the cross, only to discover that Albert had been observing her silent prayer with pitiful gaze. However, Albert promptly averted his gaze from Alice, waiting patiently in silence for his mother to conclude her devotions.

...

The matriarch concluded her prayer, rising gracefully from her kneel. Exiting the family chapel, she made her way to a patio table placed in front of building, with her maids standing in attendance. Albert and Alice followed in respectful procession behind her.

Madam Mohn: "Alice, why weren't you wearing a veil in the chapel?"

Alice: "veil...? Oh, forgive me, ma'am, my education is still lacking."

Madam Mohn: "Ensure it doesn't happen again in the future."

Alice nodded, eyes lowered.

Albert attempted to conceal his disdainful expression, attempting to hide his mockery of Alice. With a polite excuse, Albert addressed his mother, "Excuse me, Mother. I need to attend to my duties back in the estate. I shall see you at dinner." He leaned in to kiss Madam Mohn's cheek before departing.

Madam Mohn, unfazed, "Wait, bring Alice with you to assist with your tasks."

Albert, trying to conceal his shock, stammered, "What?! Uh, I mean, she is a woman.. a commoner.. I bet she... is not supposed to be able to even read?"

Madam Mohn calmly asserted, "Alice can read, but alas, she cannot write. You can teach her gradually, can't you? To enhance her utility in this household."

Albert: "Mother, extending my responsibilities to include Alice will undoubtedly slow down the workflow. I find it more efficient to handle my duties independently." As Albert gives deadly gaze to Alice for a second.

Madam Mohn: "Albert, it's crucial for our new subject to feel useful. Teaching her some tasks will not only occupy her time but also contribute to the functioning of the estate. It's in everyone's interest. She cannot possibly do hard labor since she will hopefully carry your younger siblings."

Madam Mohn insisted on finding practical tasks for Alice rather than letting her idle away her time.

Albert: "..........."

Albert: "Very well, I will let her read our letters sent from other household and let her contemplate the appropriate responses."

Madam Mohn: "Excellent, Albert. It's a thoughtful task for her, and it keeps her engaged. Make sure to assist her when needed."

Albert mounted his white horse with an annoyed expression, bid his mother farewell, and dryly offered Alice, "Want a ride?"

Alice replied, "... I will walk."

Albert retorted, "Fine. Please note I will punish you if you're late to the library," his face displaying irritation. As he swiftly rode away, leaving them, his eyes rolled in annoyance.

Madam Mohn, sipping her hot tea, gazed at Alice with a meaningful look. As Alice contorted her face in confusion, Madam Mohn continued sipping her tea, seemingly enjoying the spectacle.