A Knight's Lilies

"Arneathean customs that we have uncovered so far speak of elaborate rituals and demonstrations meant to impress audiences and capture the imagination. During celebratory moments, texts have recorded large scale displays of magical ability to create an atmosphere that was described as 'unimaginable until seen'. Through this, we can extrapolate that Arneathean society likely also incorporated a great deal of magic within more mundane everyday activities. Meaning that current studies of magical phenomena at Areneathean ruins might not always be the result of some cataclysmic spell but rather, the accumulation of countless smaller ones."

- Professor Aime Nich, Arterian Academy Department of History, "Cultural Customs Of Past Peoples"

A chest high stone wall marked the boundary that cut into the Rosengart duchy. The wall wrapped itself around some invisible lines on a map that saw it weaving in between trees and foliage that protected the outskirts of the castle town just beyond the Rosengart estate. The dense firs and pines also gave way to more open spaces where the trees were lower and flora more plentiful. Small meadows now popped up here and there, little patches of calm protected by the swaying trees above them.

Before them, the town of Rosewachten awaited them. A calm, quiet little town tucked away in the woods just before a small hill that led up to the Rosengart's manor. About a hundred odd townhouses nestled themselves comfortably in the forest clearing, the small town bordered by a few crop fields carved out from the forest itself. The land long since tamed by its human inhabitants to be more than subsistent and even capable of sustaining the settlements of nearby duchies.

Despite being within the northern bounds of Carrador and thus close enough to the border that one would have reason to be worried should hostilities break out once more. The people here were mostly peaceful, something Sophie had come to learn during her childhood excursions with Eva into town. For if there was one thing Grand Duke Walden did well with his domain, it was the protection of Carrador's northern frontier with elite rangers, reuters and knight orders dedicated to the protection of the people and land itself. Thus it came to pass that despite the peasantry of this land being of hardy and stern stock when compared to other Carradorians and more so to southerners, they were also used to a slow, almost relaxed pace of life here. They knew that they were protected

So it was that when three wagons and two carriages alongside now almost a dozen armored riders approached the castle town. A sizable contingent of militia, footman, men-at-arms, and irregular troopers had been quickly scrambled to face this oncoming threat. Sophie guessed that it was some form of show of force given that Eva never really made it clear if she had been expected to return at this time or not. Based on the aggressive reception instead of noble welcome, Sophie assumed that Eva had been less than forthcoming about her plans to her family.

A whistle echoed from the front of the caravan and Sophia shot Sophie a tired look. Sophie sighed and turned to give Ary a quick peck on the forehead before dismounting and making her way towards the front where Eva was. One of the red hawk knights quickly closed the distance, glaring at her until she belatedly gestured towards the front. The man let out a derisive huff but did not make any other overtly hostile maneuvers.

Sophie lazily made her way forwards, her muscles sore from the prolonged sitting. Her boots kicked little bits of dirt and rock out of the way as she passed by some of the others. Sir Taurox even gave her an acknowledging grunt as she passed by him.

Ahead of her, Eva clambered off of her horse, passing the reins over to Suzuki who had stepped out of the saints carriage. Mila just slowly cantered her horse forwards, looking almost exhausted as she turned to give Sophie a friendly wave. The church must've been cutting deals in the back during the ball or court. She looks like she could use a good sleep.

"Sophie. Hey. Stay sharp. Townsfolk are a bit antsy." Eva called out to her.

Sophie held out a thumbs up while walking up to her, the two meeting with a quick embrace before joining the Inquisitors at the front of the caravan.

"Identify yourselves." A distant voice called out.

Inquisitor Janos whispered something to MIla, who nodded, before turning to face Eva.

"Anything I should know? Formalities that your people might… take umbrage to?" He asked.

Eva shook her head, "As long as they know who you are and what you represent. That should give me enough of an opportunity."

"Understood." The Inquisitor affirmed before sizing up the approaching soldiers, "I am a representative of the Church of Astralis. I've come from the capitol as a guest and with guests in tow."

"Don't draw any weapons. Who are the others?" A soldier shouted.

"Your turn." Janos muttered towards Eva.

The girl nodded before motioning for Sophie to follow. Sophie did so but with her hand at the ready just in case they needed to quickly draw a blade or fend off an ambush.

"I got this." Eva whispered a quiet reassurance to her.

"I know you do. Let's just keep things calm."

"Aye. Always." Eva nodded then strutted up to the very front, now in full view of the town's troops.

The soldiers in view watched her warily. Militia on both sides of the main road standing in a position to form a shield wall if necessary, though the order had been halted for now. Men-at-arms and footmen took up the center where the lead troop was. A competent if unimaginative battle order of stronger center and weaker but more mobile flanks, Sophie recalled from her studies. They're trained to some degree, at least. A sensible enough conclusion given that, despite their distance from the border, they aren't free from its influence.

"People of Rosewachten, my name is Evaline Rosengart, rightful daughter of the Duke and Duchess Rosengart. I have returned from the capital with my own retinue and am headed home after a long journey." Eva shouted back, her head held high and chest puffed out as haughtily as she could manage.

The soldiers did not respond, but nor did they take any defensive or aggressive actions. A good sign. Eva waited, trying her best to look annoyed. Eventually, a small detachment of soldiers wandered closer, the troopers clearly unnerved at the size of the caravan before them.

"By the grace of the Goddess and the fates, and with the blessing of the king I return. Behold," Eva declared as she lifted a necklace from her neck, "The sigil of the Duke himself."

One soldier looked to another and quickly whispered something. The first man then hurriedly saluted Eva as the other turned back to his comrades.

"The Duke's child returns! Open the gate and clear the path!" He cried out before spinning around to salute as well.

"My lady." The two troopers echoed.

"Very good." Eva hummed before dipping her head, not too much, but just enough to show acknowledgement without deference.

"Your… retinue, milady?" The first soldier asked.

"A bit large, yes. But a matter I will discuss with the mayor, if he is present. And perhaps one of my brothers, if they are already at the estate."

The troopers exchanged a glance.

"Your lordship Theodore is currently at the manor, milady." The soldier answered.

Too ingrained within her, Eva couldn't stop from rolling her eyes and turning towards Sophie.

"Ugh, blasted Theo's the one in. How fortuitous." She sarcastically drawled. Realizing where she was she quickly motioned for the soldiers to clear the way, "We'll get moving then, keep to your posts. I shan't keep you any longer."

"Of course, milady." The two saluted once more before hurrying back to assist the militia.

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Eva made a few hand gestures towards Janos and Mila who then whistled and motioned for the caravan to continue. Suzuki shot Sophie a quick smile as the saintess guided Eva's horse back to her own. Though the creature did neigh and buck a little as it drew a little too close to Sophie.

"Could ride back with me." Eva smirked.

"You know animals don't do well with me." Sophie chided.

"Shame." Eva shrugged, "Well, see you in a bit." She winked.

Sophie giggled and winked back.

With no immediate danger and any potential misunderstandings resolved, Sophie hurried back to her wagon. Sophia mockingly pretended to clap her hands but did not tease her lack of presence at the front any more than that. Ary smiled at her return but much like Lucinia at the back, was mostly just curious about this new clearing within the forest that they've just found themselves in. Sophie could just about tell what each of them was thinking. Ary was curious, her eyes trying to absorb every new detail in the trees, the people, and the town they were headed towards. Lucinia was more analytical, her eyes occasionally narrowing as she found something or another to be unpleasant or distasteful. Heh.

"This is the town Eva and I would often sneak into together. Whenever she was too bored with being stuck inside." Sophie shared.

Her words seemed to be like a beacon as the other two quickly flitted their attention towards her.

"As you can see. A fair bit less dense than the other parts of the forest that we've seen or had to navigate through. Main road's maintained well too. So supplies are pretty plentiful though certainly no trading hub like the capitol or Arteria."

"It is rather quaint." Lucinia mumbled.

"Heh, well, quaint it may be. But it is what it is. If we get the time, do try to remind me to ask Eva to take us to the local baker. It won't match the loaves we get in Arteria, but there is a charm to them that I'm certain you'll like." Sophie pressed on.

Lucinia stared at her for a few moments then let out a low chuckle, "I'll keep that in mind."

Sophie was caught off guard by the sudden friendliness and fought to hide her own chuckle. Only finding the composure to continue after the jolt of the wagon being thrown into action once again broke her out of her stupor.

"Supply wise, this would also be a nice place to pick up some I suppose. There's a butcher's on the eastern edge of town who does some amazing cured meats that last for a long time. I still remember when Eva took me over there to buy me a few snacks that could be easily snuck around without the other maids noticing. Though the owner…" She continued, a soft smile wandering onto her face at the flood of nostalgic memories that now revitalized themselves in her mind.

The fencing and walls around the estate itself looked almost polished. A sign that regular maintenance was still being done even now. While the town was certainly sizable if a little on the smaller side compared to other towns that the party had visited before. The direct ducal estate was almost the same size as it, the land that was occupied anyway. Household footmen, knights, and others found their quarters in the small barracks district near the in-between point of the town and the Rosengart manor. The sight of the well organized caravan certainly made more than a few sets of heads turn to look at them as they passed. Thankfully, this time Eva was riding near the head of it alongside Mila and two of the templars. The girl proudly displayed her floral sigil to assert her presence. The church guards only adding to her gravitas and earning a small modicum of respect from the soldiery present.

Janos and a few templars had split off from the party to go visit the local bishop. No doubt the Inquisitor was trying to make sure that the church would continue to keep tabs on the movements of the saints while also taking the time to get a message back to his commanders. Sir Taurox and Grorok continued to guard the convoy, the two of them flanking the approach attracted the most mutterings by the local troops. Yet instead of discrimination or doubt, Sophie found herself mildly amused hearing the passing whispers more focused on how well they fought or could be fought.

Sophie finally joined the others peering out of the wagon, the scenery passing her by making her heart ache from both joyful and painful memories. A strange slurry of emotion hit her almost all at once when they passed the barracks district. The manor was now in clear view of them all. A large four story manor made from a combination of sturdy bricks and wood. With the extra space granted to it, the house itself stretched far grander than the estates of the nobles of Arteria. Browns and whites made up the main colors that coated the building's facade, offering an inviting yet imposing entryway for all to see. At the flanks of the building stood the smaller guest houses that were attached to it, beyond them the famed greenhouses that House Rosengart prided themselves in.

In them, Sophie saw the brilliance of the estate reflected in its whole. Reds, greens, blues, pinks, purples, and all the different shades in between that formed the plethora of flowers that called the greenhouse home. Against the dark greens, browns and other such shrubbery within the forests nearby, it was like a colorful dance for the eyes that calmed any worries that she had in her mind.

"Welcome to House Rosengart." Sophie mumbled.

"Flowers." Ary cooed happily.

"We don't even get a welcoming party." Lucinia grunted, though she too was somewhat engrossed by the sight of the flower gardens.

"Well, Eva didn't tell anyone she was coming back, at least not this soon." Sophie informed her.

"Oh… great." Lucinia groaned, "Not even worthy enough of a welcome."

"It's not that bad."

"Sure, but that means no one else expected this. Makes it easier for her and her family to butt heads. You'd be surprised how shifting power dynamics can make people jealous."

Sophie made to protest but paused. Theodore certainly had his issues with Eva, though they were not outright hostile, more akin to a sibling rivalry if anything. But they did often fight, at least more than with Mortiz. Not that he couldn't be bothersome in his own way. If anyone knew of sibling rivalry it was the one who had their brother trying to detain them. The Imperial family is quite messy.

"They often do." Sophie whispered, trying to steer the conversation away from the topic, "But they are family. I am certain that Theodore would be welcoming. Especially in the presence of the saints."

"Right. The saints. But what about us? You don't exactly sound the fondest of him."

"Eh.' Sophie grunted. Her milquetoast reaction earned her an amused giggle from Ary.

"Just try not to make a mess of things."

Sophie arched an offended brow at the Traxian.

"What? No need to look at me like that, you're the one most likely to get us into trouble." Lucinia scoffed.

"I won't. I'll try not to anyway."

"And that's all we ask." Sophia quipped with a snicker.

"Hey, you're my twin. You're a part of this too."

"Sure, sure. But we are different." Sophia wagged a finger at her.

"Ugh."

Ahead of them, two Rosengart footmen pushed open the main gate to the estate. The troopers gave their proudest salute to honor the arrival of their returned Lady Rosengart. A line of other footguards and knights hastily tried to assemble their best attempt at a parade line up as would be a natural greeting for one of their liege lords.

Right at the entrance, Eva traded words with a few of the footmen, the soldiers almost immediately began sprinting back to the main estate itself. She then motioned for the caravan to continue before gesturing for her own knight. Grorok let out a throaty grunt and sped his mount up, breaking formation to meet his patron.

Sophie could feel her heart starting to race. Home. One that was a distant memory now so close at hand, barely a few feet away. A woody floral scent now invaded her nostrils. A nostalgic childhood vision of her running after Eva desperately in order to control her mistress so that she would attend morning classes with her tutor. Hah, how simple things were back then.

Then, to her horror, she spied someone all too familiar. Head maid Hilda. The crone was still there and seemed to be grumbling towards one of the nearby servants. Likely trying to figure out what exactly was happening in front of the estate and the giant caravan that now stood idle next to the manor itself.

The caravan slowly came to halt as Eva and a slowly growing group of Rosengart footman organized themselves to welcome the procession. With all the noise and commotion, a few household staffers quickly filtered out in a panic. Amongst their number, Sophie spotted a few maids and butlers, though to her own dismay, she barely recognized most of them even if she had a vague recollection of having worked alongside them before. Her half smile died on her face, almost like a lifetime ago, stars.

Her own wagon came to a stop halfway to the house, past a small decorative tree that had stood vigil ever since she had been here. Sophia clicked her tongue to hurry Sophie along and she rolled her eyes but hopped out of the wagon nonetheless.

Eva almost immediately caught her eye and grinned. The same mischievous grin that she was used to. Oh dear. With a heavy sigh to prepare herself for whatever was next, she sauntered up towards the girl. Once more, Eva dismounted and beamed a smile at her.

"Follow me." She whispered.

Sophie nodded her affirmation.

With a newfound gusto, Eva raised her arm and motioned for some nearby soldiers to follow her. The troopers fell into line beside them in an instant, escorting them as they made their way to the front of the house, gaining the attention of the household staff and Hilda. Though based on the head maid's expression, she didn't recognize Sophie yet, too focused on the shock and surprise at Eva's presence.

She could see how Eva's hands were on her hips, an almost smug air coalescing around her. Eva…

The girl then nodded at the lead footman, the soldier the only one with large pauldrons decorated with painted roses. The man seemed uncertain, checking Eva once more for confirmation. When Eva didn't waver, he then stood to her side and stood at attention.

"Welcome back the lady of the house, Lady Evaline Rosengart!" The man bellowed for the world to hear.

Eva traded a thin smile with Sophie. They made it. They were home.