Castle Of Thorns [Mature] The Duchess's Glasshouse

[Verzyne Duchy - Marxstein Castle]

[Dinner time]

Jared Bartholett

What!? You've seen the Duchess?

Teen Raven (ML)

Not only did she see me, but she also spoke to me. She doubted my ability to handle such a large garden and strongly recommended that I begin by assisting in the glasshouse.

Jared Bartholett

She thought you're a weakling! Bahahahahahaha

Raven twitched in annoyance.

Teen Raven (ML)

Come on, Mister Jared, you do know that I'm strong, right? Well at least strong enough to take care of a garden.

Jared Bartholett

Boy, even though you look like a twig, I know you can get things done. Otherwise, I wouldn't even dream of offering the job to you.

Teen Raven (ML)

Jeez, thanks for the vote of confidence.

He replied sarcastically.

Teen Raven (ML)

Anyway, this means I may not be able to fully assist you in the upcoming replanting project. What should we do about it?

Jared Bartholett

No worries, I can still push it back until early next week. We have enough time to find people from the village.

Teen Raven (ML)

We can? So what's the point of me coming so early? I got an earful from Dion last night.

Jared Bartholett

Hey! I never specifically told you to move immediately! I was just saying that I may need help soon.

Teen Raven (ML)

Well, the way you said it sounded like it was so urgent.

Jared didn't even bother to reply.

Jared Bartholett

In any case, if you're going to work in the glasshouse, you need to learn about growing flowers. The Duchess may have made it seem like a simple task, but managing the glasshouse has been a tradition among the castle's mistresses for generations. It's like a sanctuary for them. Having proper knowledge of how to care for the plants inside is crucial.

Teen Raven (ML)

I always thought they were just growing random flowers inside.

Jared appeared highly offended by his comment.

Jared Bartholett

Random flowers? Oh, you're underestimating them. Inside, you'll find a variety of rare blooms, like the Juliet rose. Rumor has it that even the imperial palace can't cultivate such roses, so the reigning Duke always sends a preserved bouquet to the Emperor whenever they bloom.

Teen Raven (ML)

Wow, you describe it so well, it's like you've actually been there yourself.

Raven eyed the older man suspiciously until Jared appeared uncomfortable under his scrutiny.

Jared Bartholett

Okay, I admit it. I've sneaked into the glasshouse before.

Teen Raven (ML)

And to think, you're the one who warned me about wandering off.

Jared Bartholett

I couldn't resist my curiosity! A few years back, the Duchess asked for some kind of medium to grow a new collection, and when I was delivering the supplies, I just had to sneak a peek inside.

The young man's disbelief irritated Jared.

Jared Bartholett

Let's set aside my antics for now and address the urgent matter. As I mentioned, the glasshouse has been under the care of generations of Duchesses, so it's now overseen by the young miss. Just remember to always be on your best behavior and not to offend her, okay?

Teen Raven (ML)

I will. Don't worry.

Content with Raven's response, Jared decided to steer the conversation away from that particular topic. Instead, he began discussing his plans for the replanting project and sought Raven's opinion on the matter.

[At the castle]

With her belongings already moved by the Duke, Sylvia returned to the chamber she had originally occupied after marrying Ricardo, only to later relocate to an annex room following her miscarriage a year ago.

Beatrice meticulously tended to her hair, perhaps hoping to ease her mistress's stress.

Beatrice Petterson

My Lady, why did you ask the young man to help in the glasshouse? Isn't this rather sudden? What if the Duke discovers it?

Duchess Sylvia Marxstein

Things need to progress more quickly than anticipated. The Duke seems to be in a rush. If I still can't conceive another child by Serafina's coming of age, he will insist on taking her to his bed.

Beatrice Petterson

But...

Duchess Sylvia Marxstein

Do not fret. The glasshouse is a safe place. Marxstein's Dukes are prohibited from entering the area. It serves as the Duchess's exclusive refuge within this desolate castle.

Beatrice appeared to have more to say, but Sylvia cut her off.

Duchess Sylvia Marxstein

Ensure Serafina's safety. Have Carolla keep watch, and if necessary, discreetly inform them of the hidden passage inside the glasshouse.

Beatrice Petterson

I will do as you wish, my Lady.