Yohana embarked on a journey to the village of Brasven in a modest carriage. She headed toward Count Yannik's smallest estate to maintain a low-key existence with minimal attention.
The journey to Brasven treated her to picturesque countryside views, with rolling hills and winding roads. Sitting inside the carriage, she gazed out the window, observing the ever-changing landscape.
The tranquility of the surroundings provided a brief respite from the chaos and danger of the outside world. The rhythmic clatter of the carriage wheels against the cobbled path echoed in the crisp air as she approached the destination.
Brasven welcomed Yohana with open arms. Nestled at the foot of a lush green valley, it exuded an aura of simplicity and community.
The village's charming cottages featured colorful flowers spilling from window boxes on their facades. A maze-like pattern was formed by the narrow, winding streets.
As the carriage continued its ride, Yohana passed by a lively marketplace. Various goods, fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delectable baked treats were on display.
A young girl approached the carriage, offering flowers for sale. Yohana bought some to help the girl, filling the carriage with the delightful scent of blossoms.
The residence she selected was a graceful yet simple dwelling that harmonized perfectly with the nearby buildings. Covered in ivy and climbing roses, its walls exuded a feeling of tradition and enduring appeal. The estate was situated among lush gardens.
As the carriage approached the gate, Yohana noticed two figures waiting with a respectful bow. One was a young maiden, while the other was a middle-aged woman. They greeted her as the carriage entered the courtyard.
Mrs. Stringer, who had accompanied Yohana throughout the journey, was the first to step out of the carriage. As the driver began unloading the luggage, Mrs. Stringer took the initiative to introduce the maids.
"Allow me to introduce Wanda," Mrs. Stringer gestured toward the older woman, "and her daughter, Stella. I have chosen them specifically for their reliability and expertise to cater to your needs, My Lady."
Both Wanda and Stella bowed deeply, their heads remaining lowered as a sign of respect toward someone of higher status. "We are at your service, My Lady," they spoke in unison.
Mrs. Stringer turned toward the maids and addressed them, "Your duty will be to serve Lady Frederika, the beloved daughter of a respected Margrave known to Count Yannik. Your responsibilities include overseeing the maintenance of the property and ensuring a comfortable stay for the lady. Do you understand?"
"Certainly, ma'am," the maids responded in unison.
After the brief introduction, Mrs. Stringer guided Yohana through the estate, familiarizing her with the different rooms and their purposes.
The entranceway boasted a gleaming marble floor, which led to a grand staircase adorned with an intricately crafted wrought iron railing. Soft sunlight streamed in through expansive windows, casting a gentle, warm glow across the area.
As they made their way through the living room, Yohana observed the inviting sight of luxurious sofas and armchairs arranged around a crackling fireplace. The space had a warm and natural atmosphere, with bookshelves adorning the walls and a substantial rug covering the hardwood floor.
The dining room, located on the first floor, featured a long wooden table at its center, complemented by elegant chairs upholstered in luxurious fabrics.
The room was bathed in a gentle, warm light emitted by crystal chandeliers suspended overhead. On a sideboard, there were exquisite pieces of porcelain and silver on display.
Mrs. Stringer led Yohana to the study on the second floor, which was conveniently located near the staircase. Noticing Yohana's fascination with the window that looked out onto the garden, Mrs. Stringer commented,
"The gardener will tend to the garden daily, but you need not worry about it, My Lady. I have instructed him to commence his work early in the morning while you enjoy your breakfast."
Yohana tore herself away from the window, her keen eyes scanning the surroundings, meticulously assessing any potential vulnerabilities for unwelcome intruders.
Drawing from her past experiences in Nanty Narking and the count's castle, she understood the importance of remaining vigilant.
Fortunately, the study provided an advantageous vantage point to monitor anyone approaching the estate. Through the window, she had a clear view of the gate, and there were no towering trees nearby that could serve as a means for potential intruders to gain access.
Adjacent to the study was Yohana's bedroom. The soft, muted hues of the room contributed to its serene ambiance. Positioned at the heart of the chamber was a grand canopy bed, embellished with flowing curtains that added a touch of elegance.
As she familiarized herself with the space, Yohana discreetly identified strategic locations near the bed where she could discreetly store small weapons, ensuring her readiness for any unforeseen circumstances.
"Thank you, Mrs. Stringer," Yohana expressed her gratitude.
Mrs. Stringer bowed respectfully and responded, "It is my duty to ensure your comfort, My Lady. Is there anything else you require?"
"No, that will be all," Yohana replied.
"Very well, then. I shall return to Harnisse. While you rest, Wanda and Stella will prepare your lunch. Feel free to communicate any preferences or dietary requirements to them, My Lady," Mrs. Stringer informed.
"I have no specific preferences. They can prepare whatever is available in the kitchen," Yohana replied.
"Understood, My Lady," Wanda acknowledged.
With that, they each departed to their respective destinations: Mrs. Stringer back to Harnisse Castle and Wanda and Stella to the kitchen.
***
The former princess had been residing somewhere else for a while now. However, contrary to Countess Augusta's expectations, the count seemed even busier with this new arrangement.
While he was mostly present at home, he confined himself to his office. Countess Augusta made multiple attempts to capture his attention but found herself sitting alone on the sofa, sipping a cold tea, while Count Yannik remained engrossed in his paperwork.
"I apologize, my dear. Could you please wait? I must finish this soon," he would say.
"My love, please wait there. Mr. Reitz, could you prepare some tea for the countess? Darling, it will only take a minute," the count would assure her, yet it often took him hours to complete his tasks.
There was also that one occasion when Count Yannik finally sat down beside her, ready to engage in a long-overdue conversation.
However, their interaction was abruptly interrupted by Mr. Reitz's entrance, accompanied by a whispered message. Count Yannik's expression immediately changed upon hearing Mr. Reitz's words. He suddenly announced his departure to the capital for an extended period of time.
Frustration welled up in the countess' heart, and with Count Yannik's absence, she sought solace in the company of someone she knew would treat her far better—Isaak.
Prior to visiting Isaak's residence, she conspired with her ladies-in-waiting to conceal her absence from the castle. By feigning illness, Countess Augusta could secretly slip out at night and hide in the carriage arranged by Miss Natali.
Meanwhile, back at the castle, the ladies-in-waiting would feign Countess Augusta's illness, making it appear as though she was unwell and unable to leave her room. However, her condition was not severe enough to require the attention of a doctor.
As soon as she stepped out of the carriage, she threw herself into Isaak's embrace, catching even Miss Natali, who had accompanied her, by surprise.
"You may leave now. Remember, no one must know about this," Countess Augusta instructed Miss Natali.
"Of course, Countess. Have a pleasant evening," Miss Natali replied before closing the carriage door and departing from Isaak's residence.
Spending the night with her brother-in-law proved to be delightful as Isaak readily gave her his undivided attention, unlike her husband. Countess Augusta confided in Isaak about her concerns regarding her husband's excessive attention toward the former princess.
"I understand that she used to be a princess, but she is no longer in that position. Why can't he let it be? Why does he feel the need to continue taking care of her? He has already done so much for the crown, shouldn't he prioritize his own family now?" she lamented.
Isaak gently rubbed the countess' back and held her hand, offering comfort. "I completely agree, Countess. Regardless of any obligations, a man's foremost duty should be to his own family before the crown."
With Isaak's exceptional listening skills and empathetic nature, he earned the countess' trust. She rested her head on his chest and mumbled, "If only I had married you instead of him..."
Isaak remained unresponsive, frozen in shock, as the countess lifted her head to gauge his reaction. Sensing his surprise, she chuckled softly and gently caressed his face.
"Yes, you heard correctly. I regret the choice I made back then. It should have been you that I married, not your brother. Can you make me feel loved now?"
Isaak's mind was overwhelmed by the direct confession. He lost all restraint and passionately embraced the countess, exploring every inch of her body and cherishing each kiss she allowed.
"I love you, Countess. I love you," he repeated the words like an enchanting mantra.
Countess Augusta, pulling his chin closer, kissed him on the lips and whispered, "Call me Augusta."
A broad smile graced Isaak's face, his heart racing as he savored the taste of her name on his lips. "Augusta," he murmured, savoring the newfound intimacy between them.