Under a Dimmed Sun [UNCENSORED]

SII: Chapter XLIII: Deal with the Devil

Alice, having weathered the harsh throes of childbed fever, is finally reunited with her newborn, Isabel, within the confines of her chamber. Cateline and Madam Mohn's maid stand as steadfast companions in this tender moment.

With maternal instinct aflame, Alice asserts her desire to cradle Isabel in her arms throughout the night and nourish her with her own milk. This declaration flies in the face of convention, as the aristocracy often entrusts the care of their infants to wet nurses.

Cateline: "It's a relief to see you well again, Alice. And little Isabel is finally in your arms where she belongs."

Maid: "Indeed, Mistress Alice, it's a joyous moment. But surely you'll consider a wet nurse for Isabel's care?"

Alice: "No, I must nurse Isabel myself. It's my duty and my privilege as her mother."

Cateline, recognizing the depth of Alice's resolve, lends her support to this unconventional decision. However, Madam Mohn's maid voices her dissent, citing the weight of tradition and the probable disapproval of their matriarch.

Cateline: "I see no harm in it, Madam Mohn will understand."

Maid: "But it's against Mohn's tradition! The wet nurse should tend to the baby, not the mother."

Alice: "I want to bond with my daughter. It's important to me."

Cateline: "She's right. Alice should have the chance to care for Isabel herself."

Madam Mohn's Maid: "But what if Madam Mohn disagrees?"

Cateline: "We'll cross that bridge when we come to it. For now, let Alice enjoy this moment with her daughter."

Alice: "Thank you, Cateline. I'll cherish every moment with Isabel."

Sir Richaud of Mohn, accompanied by Edward and Albert, makes an unexpected entrance into the room, prompting Alice and Albert to exchange glances fraught with unspoken tension. Albert's attempt to conceal his amusement leaves Alice perplexed.

Madam Mohn's maid extends a respectful curtsy to the gentlemen, prompting Alice to mimic the gesture with a courteous nod: "Sir."

Sir Richaud, with a paternal air, addresses Alice: "No need to rise, my dear Elizabeth. Are you in good health?"

Edward interjects with a correction: "Father, her name is Alice."

Sir Richaud, momentarily flustered, offers a gracious apology: "My apologies, dear Alice."

A hushed silence descends upon the room, punctuated only by the suppressed laughter emanating from Albert.

Sir Richaud, observing Alice and her newborn daughter, remarks in a tone of reassurance: "It appears both mother and child are in good health. There's no need for concern, my dear. Remember, you can always try again for a son. A healthy baby, regardless of gender, is a blessing. It's better than none at all." His gaze shifts to Cateline, who struggles to conceal her irritation.