The Winter Playroom and Judithe’s Younger Brother

The Winter Playroom and Judithe’s Younger Brother

The Winter Playroom and Judithe’s Younger Brother

“I shall be going to the winter playroom today,” I said. “I must advertise the Plantin Company, and Rihyarda has instructed me to seek out potential retainers among the younger students.”

“In that case, might I introduce my little sister?” Brunhilde asked. “Naturally, it is up to you to decide whether you will accept her, but considering her as a replacement apprentice archattendant for when I graduate does seem wise.”

Brunhilde explained that she had wanted to introduce her sister to me last year but had decided against it, since I wasn’t even used to my own retainers at the time. However, as I socialized with both greater duchies and royalty at the Royal Academy, I absolutely needed at least one apprentice archattendant there with me.

“Please do,” I said.

“Lady Rozemyne, can I introduce my little brother too, then?” Judithe asked, her violet eyes sparkling with anticipation. It reminded me that she was the oldest of all her siblings and that she had mentioned having to work hard for their sake.

I gave her a nod, smiling.

Upon our arrival at the playroom, both Brunhilde and Judithe called over their siblings. An adorable little girl was the first to come over, and she cried out “Sister!” with the brightest smile.

“Lady Rozemyne, allow me to introduce you,” Brunhilde said. “This is my little sister, Bertilde.”

Bertilde was like a mini Brunhilde. The children in the playroom had all greeted me before, but it was hard to remember them when we interacted so rarely.

“My older sister often speaks of you, Lady Rozemyne,” Bertilde continued. “I am glad that we finally have this opportunity to talk.” It seemed that she had discussed fashion trends and such with Brunhilde from a very young age, and she envied her big sister for serving as my retainer and spreading her own trends. “I wish to serve you as well when I go to the Royal Academy.”

“You cannot serve Lady Rozemyne without first earning Lady Elvira’s approval,” Brunhilde said admonishingly. Bertilde was going to be entering the Royal Academy two years from now, and she was currently serving Elvira as an extended family member. It was safe to say that Elvira was specifically training her to one day become my retainer.

Bertilde. Okay. Name: memorized.

“Lady Rozemyne, this is my little brother Theodore,” Judithe said, leading her brother by the shoulders. “He’s going to be joining the Royal Academy next year.”

“Let go of me,” the boy complained. “I can introduce myself.” He had youthful features that made him resemble Judithe, but he came across as especially mature for his age. I got the feeling that it was usually his job to keep his excitable older sister under control.