Quoted By:
Clever little vixen. Frida and Roselyn both well knew that talk of an invitation in their circles was practically an invitation itself. She knew there was no point denying it now, lest her family risk ridicule from the dilettantes in the Romaine Court for being poor hosts. But she could at least drive home Vancewell’s presumptiveness to spin any sort of fallout in those circles as a double-edged sword for both involved.
<span class="mu-i">“A social visit in wintertime is an altogether different imposition, especially here.”</span>
<span class="mu-i">“Oh, I didn’t even think! Why, I barely even paused to pack. It’s been all quite overwhelming for a mere maiden like myself back home, what with the war on and all….”</span> Frida slipped seamlessly into another tried and tested facade, that of the vulnerable and overwrought mountain lass. Just the right amount of uncertainty, with the odd knowing pout for the more seasoned players of the game. <span class="mu-i">“It was silly of me to think only of diverting myself from that horrid business with the social calls and visits to relatives abroad without thought to any possible inconvenience. I mean, there was even talk of a wedding? What a lovely occasion!”</span>
<span class="mu-i">“Yes, the wedding. We’ll get to that. But most concerningly you have embarked upon this journey, at this time of year, with only ten…”</span> Lord Andrei cast a critical eye over the Vancewell honour guard present in the hall, clearly unimpressed. <span class="mu-i">“...men.”</span>
<span class="mu-i">“It’s all my dearest Lord father could spare, our house enjoys the deep trust of our magnanimous Duke and we can give no less than our all in the war effort.”</span> This was working perfectly. Getting the measure of the Andrei household, keeping House Vancewell appropriately aloof from ongoing suitors of other parties, and even walking away as the aggrieved party (if she chose to use that minor bit of leverage) when they failed to host a noble lady of her status. <span class="mu-i">“ It really would be such a shame to miss out on any planning for such a lovely episode as a spring wedding. But of course, I’ve acted without thought for the comfort or convenience of others. We had planned to winter in the Duchess’ Court with distant relatives in any event, really we shall be on our way. Perhaps when the weather turns fair we might revisit this and make further plans?”</span>
<span class="mu-i">“Now that you are here-”</span> Roselyn began, doubtless making the requisite insistences on them staying to be followed by Frida’s insistence on leaving (and the back-and-forth from that could take ever so long).
<span class="mu-i">“I cannot allow it.”</span> Lord Andrei’s interruption carried the edge of authority with it and, for once, brooked no interference.
[4/6]
