The Camellia Tattoo - Chapter 14
‧₊˚ ☁️⋅♡𓂃 ࣪ ִֶָ☾.
this book is completely translated on luna kofi (advanced chapters for the website will follow)
‘Before Igmeyer returns, let’s get things organized,’ Amber declared, her pink eyes shining with determination.
‘But there seems to be something else very important… though I can’t quite recall.’
Her mind, like the snowy landscape beyond the window, was dotted with patches of white. She was frustrated about what she might have missed.
‘Perhaps it’s related to the defense mechanism,’ she pondered, hesitating before sweeping her belly.
Before the feeling of loss could strike like a venomous snake, Amber closed her eyes tightly, shaking her head.
Now is not the time to be swept away by emotions. She must forget. She should think of the child who will come back. This is for that child’s happiness. She needs to strengthen her resolve.
Or else, it seems like it will collapse at any time.
* * *
The next day, Amber woke up earlier than anyone else. Having rested well the previous day, she was in good shape.
“Your name is Huvern, right?”
“Yes, Madam.”
It was just before dawn, a time when a proper butler should be getting up. Knowing this, Amber called for Nora to summon the butler.
“I am not familiar with the culture here, having come from a distant land. I entrust everything to you.”
“I will gladly serve. Please call me anytime.”
Huvern was an elderly butler. He had been with the Niflheim family since the time of the previous Grand Duke, earning considerable respect from the people inside and outside the castle.
‘And… in my past life, he tried to care for me in his own way.’
Regardless of her personality or whether she would be beneficial to the family, Huvern didn’t care. He was a butler, and a good butler did not judge the master and mistress.
For Huvern, she was simply the mistress.
Knowing this, Amber felt comfortable with Huvern.
“I heard that the morning shift maids start their work around this time. The afternoon shift maids will also finish before long. Is there a reason why there are no resident maids in the castle?”
The loyalty of employees who commute from their homes and the loyalty of those who live and work within the castle, where their families are also present, are quite different. Naturally, the latter is much more loyal and trustworthy.
In the past, Amber didn’t bother to question why Igmeyer didn’t have resident maids, but now she wanted to know.
“Until now, it was the Lord’s command. He said that since he often leaves the castle, there is no need to have many people residing here.”
It was rational. However, that was just the mindset of a mercenary.
‘My child will grow up here. My child… as a royal blood, should grow up and be treated accordingly.’
So, there should be resident maids.
However, it was challenging to convey the idea that they were kept because she needed them.
To make being a resident maid a privilege.
“I will announce that ten maids working in the castle will be converted into resident maids. They will receive not only one extra gold coin per month but also an additional monthly payment of a smoked ham, a piece of Shardroh cheese, and a barrel of butter beer on top of their current wages.”
That was generous enough. Huvern seemed slightly surprised, not only by the gold coin but also by the additional items. However, he quickly composed his expression and bowed.
“I will convey this to the Lord. Would you like to decide on it now? While you’re at it, how about meeting all the employees and getting their greetings?”
“Very well. That’s a good idea. Also… I’ve selected Nora from the afternoon shift as the first resident maid and my personal attendant. She’s skillful and has a kind heart. I gave her the silver comb I used, so if any other girls try to take it out of envy, make sure to bring that name to me.”
“Yes, Madam.”
It was his first time meeting the Madam.
Huvern was slightly nervous, not responding immediately.
The atmosphere within the castle could significantly change depending on the character of the mistress. Since the lord used to frequently go out, the mistress’s influence would likely become more significant in the future.
However, those worries seemed unnecessary as the mistress gave clear instructions. Moreover, she not only gave gifts but also paid attention to what happened afterward.
With such kindness, Huvern could retire early with peace of mind.
Thinking so, the old butler quickly moved to follow the Madam’s orders.
* * *
Before long, all the employees in the castle were lined up in the hall as Amber desired. Considering the size of the castle, the number was not very large, allowing her to see everyone’s faces at once.
Amber stood on the stairs, and on her shoulders, there was a cloak that her husband had draped on her.
“Nora, come here.”
“Yes!”
When Amber called her ‘Nora’, some heads turned, but only one responded cheerfully. Amber gracefully gestured for Nora to stand behind her.
“As the butler informed, I will now select resident maids. The selection of resident servants will be postponed until the lord of the castle returns.”
A calm voice resonated in the quiet hall. The expressions of the maids varied – some appeared ambitious, some seemed apprehensive, and others…
‘Found her.’
Amber, who was observing a girl picking at her nails with a disinterested look, asked the butler.
“What’s that girl’s name?”
