Oil lamps had been set out around the main hallways and throughout the dining room. It was much later than usual for dining, but Lord Viemen had insisted on it. In time, the maids returned from the kitchen and began to fill the bowls with stew. The family sat down with little word between them and began eating. And so they continued for some time until little Frederick II broke the silence.
“Father, did they find the man who threw that rock?”
“He will be found,” Lord Viemen answered with a bitter tone.
Annette eyed Frederick as he ate. She was glad that he had informed her of his intentions with Zorren and Allan, but the nature of the business itself bothered her greatly.
Annette finished her spoonful of stew and waved over one of the maids to her side.
“Please check the lamps and candles once more, the smell of smoke is quite distracting.”
“Yes, my lady.”
The maid nodded and scurried off to check the fixtures as directed.
“I will be leaving for Eadenfros within the next few days,” Frederick announced suddenly to the table.
“What?” Annette put down her spoon. “Is that not too soon? We have only just returned?”
“It cannot wait.”
“But there are still many things we need to do.”
“These are minor things that both you and Trevor should be able to handle.”
Normally, Annette would relish the opportunity to exercise some agency over the manor, but knowing what she did about Zorren and Frederick’s schemes, she was reluctant to leave him be.
You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.
“Trevor can manage them alone,” she argued, “If you are intending to head to the capital then I should like very much to accompany you.”
Frederick put the spoon down forcefully on the table.
“I do not need your accompaniment, nor do I need your permission to do as I please!”
“That is not what I— ”, Annette stopped short as the smell of smoke continued to disturb her breath. “Check the candles, now! They are burning!” she shouted to the staff, before turning back towards her husband. “ Frederick—”
“There is nothing more to discuss.”
“There is no need for me to stay,” she insisted, “Would it not be strange for a husband to travel so far and to such a destination without his wife?”
“This is a matter of business, not social fancy.”
“I should think considering the circumstances you would wish to have my support!?”
Frederick shot her a furious look. Annette always had the tendency to try and insert herself into his affairs beyond his comfort. Frederick resented this very much and he was coming to regret informing her of anything.
“You should be aware of your station, Annette.”
“You are my husband!” she shouted, “And I have my responsibilities, as do you!”
“And I have told you of them!” he shouted back, “Yet you refuse to accept it!”
“Because you insist on delegating to me tasks which are of no consequence!” Annette paused suddenly. “You there— find those damn candles and put them out!”
Frederick slammed the table with his fist.
“And you insist on impudence! You have no place in such business!”
“My lady—”
“Do as she says!” Frederick snapped.
The maid flinched as she spoke.
“The candles have not been lit…”
Both Lord and Lady Viemen quieted themselves, paying attention to their surroundings perhaps for the first time since dinner began. There was in fact a strong smell of smoke. Stronger than any candle. As Frederick listened closely, he could hear a sound rising from beyond the walls of their dining room.