Published at 21st of June 2023 08:01:02 AM

There was no way for a member of Milles direct family line to remain hidden. And that problem could quickly lead to an issue between Mille and Delrose. Rippo nodded.

And now the winter is dangerous, he continued. Monsters and weather alike were unkind to humans in April. It sounded as though he were worried for her, but she could tell his attention was elsewhere. He wasnt worried for Rippo, but for Ilyin, and what Rippos presence could mean for her.

I will tell you plainly, he said. Ive no intention of leaving Milles elder unpunished.

He couldnt abide someone who, giving the sword to protect his people, chose to ally with the monsters instead. And not only did he fail to raise his sword to protect his people, but offer his own daughter to them for the sake of his own glory? The thought made Aden gag.

If we confirm that Milles elder is in contact with the Yesters, we will know you have told us the truth, he told the girl. It would tell him that Mille, as well as Elo, were in contact with the Yesters . . . and that in turn would confirm the idea that the Yesters had an oracle. So, I have to ask do you have any intention of becoming the new elder of Mille?

Pardon? Rippo blinked. The question took her by surprise, and she looked up to meet his eyes, only for an instant, before dropping them to the floor again.

Aden studied the girl. He had no particular feelings for the girl. If anything, his attitude toward her tended to be negative. Aden didnt generally like anyone from the other houses he merely accepted the burden of responsibility for their protection. But he intended to make the winter region a safe place, and an empty seat at the head of Mille would likely cause as many problems as a faithless elder.

If not, leave the mansion, he said simply. His voice grew as cold as it had when hed spoken to Paneda not surprising, since he was delivering the same ultimation. Become Delroses and Ilyins complete ally or be thrown out in the snow.

He was speaking directly, and he meant what he said.

Rippo thought something about the Duke had changed. She knew he didnt know her well, and shed been watching him carefully as one of his subjects, studying him. She had at least learned mostly how not to be cut by his coldness.

But yes, something in him had changed, and she knew it was thanks to Ilyin.

Of course, she answered calmly, if youll allow it.

She couldnt refuse, after all. To do so would mean death in the merciless winter, and she understood that. She was part of the Dukes world, after all, and she knew how he was, even with the changes Ilyin had brought in him.

I only hope, Aden said, rising from his chair, that Milles next elder is a bit wiser in their dealings.

I should only be a burden until the weather gets a bit warmer, Bertha said, her voice ringing in the study. The Delrose maids quickly shook their heads in response.

Oh my, no, said one.

Its still cold in January in the winter region, chimed in another.

Its not a good time to go out, a third agreed.

It was a bit of an exaggeration from winter people. But the maids all nodded. Even Etra didnt protest.

Is it really that cold? Bertha asked with a mix of distrust and playfulness. The maids all nodded again, several of them piping up with yes, yes, or of course.

In truth what the maids all agreed on was that they didnt want Bertha to leave. She brought joy to their madam, and the last thing they wanted to see was her returning to the warm region.

Bertha laughed, feigning gullibility.

Then I should stay here until winter gets warm, she said.

Stay as long as you can! the maids all giggled joyfully. Ilyin smiled.

Everyone seemed to be enjoying her company, she whispered to Etra.

Shes a wonderful person, Etra replied.

Grandmother seems to be enjoying the mansion as well, Ilyin said.

Were trying our best to keep her happy, Etra said.

Bertha truly did seem happy here, as Ilyin had said. So, despite initial protests, she eventually gave up and let the maids tend to her.

Oh, dear, I suppose Id have to have the Duke of Winter warm the place up if I wanted to leave anyway, and that may be asking too much, Bertha said with a wink.

Ah, that light! one of the maids exclaimed.

Yes, Bertha laughed. This old lady cant walk outside without the warmth of the sun! I suppose that means Ill be a burden for a while longer.

A burden! What do you mean? the maids giggled in unison.

Its our honor to serve such an important person, Etra said, bowing. Bertha waved off the compliment.

Everyone of you is just so loving, including the Duke of Winter, she said, smiling.