[Filter: Private]

... I cannot believe this.

She was -- all this time -- spoiled noblewoman, she calls me? I am truly sorry that "playing nice" was so difficult. A knight does not

Inconceivable.

[Filter: Private]

That truly all could not have gone much worse than it did. At least Keirnan itself is taking care of Linda, now. It is indeed a relief to have that off my shoulders, after so long dealing with it myself.

But Dame Vanessa ...

She was truly a support to me, and I am filled with regret that she was a casualty of this. Sincerely. I wish that there was something I could do.

I am not a monster. I have a heart.

[Filter: Uncle Stephan]

Ah, Uncle ...?

My thoughts are heavy and with my husband this week. I cannot believe that two years have come and gone since his passing, when it truly feels like almost yesterday that I saw him last. I mourn for myself, but more than that, I mourn for Emily. She does need her father so, and she will never know him.

[Filter: Uncle Stephan]

I ... feel strange to ask this, but I must. What happens now, Uncle? I do think I deserve to know ... I've carried this burden for a long time, and Emily's future remains on the line.

[Filter: Private]

He will read her journal. How could he not? He

I am finished.

[Filter: Private]

Just. Stay. Calm.

[Filter: Uncle]

Do you have any update, Uncle, on the ... situation?

[Filter: Private]

This is ...

Delicate.

And I cannot see it ending especially well.

[Filter: Private]

She will leave after her party. She will leave and take her jewels back to Rhia with her and then my options will be quite depleted, will they not? Lord Matthias refuses to come until I give him good reason, and what could I possibly say that he could believe, and I have no funds left of my own. The only option left will be to dirty my hands in the treasury, and it is so easily traceable.

I have truly backed myself into a splendid little corner, now have I not? You cursed old hag, why must you torment me like this?

Emily, dearest, Mother will do anything that she can.

[Filter: Private]

I am a thief, and this is ... ridiculous.

[Filter: Lord Matthias]

You certainly are taking your time.

[Filter: Public]

I do hope that you intend to stay for your birthday, at least, Rachelle. I suppose I would understand if you would rather return to Rhia to celebrate among the activity of the city and the adoration of the family, it would bring some light to my little seaside castle if I could prepare a small party for you.

[Filter: Private]

A mother does what she must to protect her child.