Under a Dimmed Sun [UNCENSORED]

SII: Chapter XLV: Duties

It's a typical afternoon, and Alice finds herself assisting Albert with his tasks in the library. However, today there's a slight difference—little Isabel rests peacefully in her cradle basket, nestled alongside Alice. Isabel is a serene baby, spending most of her time dozing, only stirring when she requires nourishment.

She meticulously organizes important letters and documents, prepares beverages for Albert, and attends to his every need, as is customary.

Albert, engrossed in a letter, suddenly grins and seals it shut.

Albert: "Here, take this letter to my father in his office."

Alice steals a glance at Isabel, nestled peacefully in her baby box.

Albert: "Leave her be. She's sleeping soundly. Don't disturb her; she'll be just fine here."

Alice nods, retrieving the letter from Albert's table before making her way to Sir Richaud's office within the estate. Memories of their first encounter flood her mind as she stands before the door, taking a deep breath before gently knocking.

Edward: "Come in."

Alice steps into the room, holding the letter in her hand. She notices Sir Richaud seated behind his desk, while Edward occupies a chair across from him. Their eyes briefly meet as she enters.

Sir Richaud: "Ah... it's... Alice. Rare to see you here. What do you need?"

Alice (in her mind): Finally, he gets my name right.

Alice curtsied, "Good day, Sir, and young Sire. I'm here to deliver a seemingly urgent letter from the quarter that needs to be taken care of earlier than other letters."

Sir Richaud: "Ah, I see. I heard you are now Albert's assistant."

Alice: "Exactly, sir."

Sir Richaud: "May I?"

Alice hands the letter to Sir Richaud with a nod.

Sir Richaud reads it silently, his brows furrowing slightly. After a moment, he looks up and directs his question to Edward, "What is our schedule on the last day of this month?"

Edward pauses, his gaze shifting between the paper in his hand and his father's expectant expression.

"We are scheduled to attend the Castile royal banquet," he finally responds, his tone tinged with certainty.

Sir Richaud nods thoughtfully, his gaze shifting between Alice and Edward.

After a moment of contemplation, he turns his attention back to Alice.

Sir Richaud: "Alice, I believe it's time for you as a member of Mohn to accompany Edward to the Navarre banquet," he suggests, his voice carrying authority. "Since my wife and I will be attending the Castilian banquet, Albert will be accompanying us."