The sun sets high in the sky, as the birds who stayed the winter fly with the wind.

It is gentle for them, and they take full advantage of it by spreading their wings.

Preserving heat in the cold is important since they have to now search for food through the snow.

However, the luckiest of animals are those living in farms, those that get fed by humans.

And it just happens that wild foxes and wolves do also have a taste for chickens who are in supply.

Somehow, despite that humans have taken away their lands, the residents of the forest also do benefit a little.

That is until humans decide it is enough, and start hunting down the foxes, wolves and alike.

It is only natural for them to defend their ground, and they have the means to do it.

Thus, this easy life of sitting inside of the room and eating breakfast the maid delivers has another side.

Yesterday I was told that Harrivetta will be getting visitors, namely her family.

I don’t know who will come but I learned that they should arrive somewhere in the morning.

And also, there is going to be something special, a surprise that makes me a little anxious.

With that my mind opens my eyes and once again I awake in my warm, comfortable canopy bed.

I look out the window and see the sky, the birds flying slowly and the reflection of the sun rays on the snow.

It was snowing in the night, I ponder, when I see that the white puff is quite thick now.

I assume that with my height, even with the heels on, just one step outside would have the snow stick all up to my ankle.

But it’s only because this type of snow is more like goose down, very fluffy, soft, especially sticky and far from solid.

Putting my feet there would be like stepping on the pillow I’m resting my head on now.

I would sink down, perhaps trip and laugh as I would get tickled by all the fluffiness around me.

However, I told myself that I would at least get ready properly today and wake up early.

That’s at least what I thought about doing, but it seems I can’t motivate myself this morning.

Perhaps it is because I don’t get enough fresh air? Then suppose I can open the window and air the room.

But if I do that I would also make this room terribly cold, and go back to bed to warm up.

“May I come in?” There is a knock on my door.

“Ah!” I react startled a little.

“Miss Pyrecilla?” The voice calls my attention.

“Of course, you may come in now.” I get up and wash my face.

I believe there is still time before breakfast, but I can’t really tell.

I’m used to waking up in the morning and looking at the sun to see if it’s early.

If the rays blind my delicate cerise eyes it is a sign that no matter what I must get up now.

But otherwise I don’t worry that much now, since school is not in my current schedule.

“May I suggest something for the day Miss Pyrecilla?” The maid says while looking through the wardrobe.

“I suppose I want something warm, but I would prefer light colours.” I tell her.

“I believe this should be suitable for the young miss, right?” The maid shows me a dress.

“But on a second guess, I think the one on the right is proper.” I reply.

“This one? You have a good taste miss.” The maid looks the dress over.

“But come to think of it, isn’t the first dress the one Harrivetta lent me?” I tilt my head while standing behind the maid.

“I believe that is right. Is something on your mind miss?” The maid asks me.

“Since her family is going to visit, would it be considerate of me to wear it today?” I say while having my tiny arm on my chin.

“Miss Harrivetta used to wear this dress, as far as I remember.” The maid mentions.

“Then I will take it.” I state. “It is her family and I wouldn’t want to spoil the mood by appearing out of place.”

Then it’s decided, I’m going to become Harrivetta’s little sister today and surprise her.

I didn’t think she would take it as a cruel jest, since I already wore her dresses in the past.

Hence why I know she doesn’t have any nostalgic or sentimental attachment to them.

The usual procedure commences. I raise my hands and prepare my lungs to accept the corset.

It goes around quite easy today. I lean down, sitting on the stool, while the maid pulls the strings back.

She uses her foot to press my down on my back as much as possible, but I’m used to that.

Next I straighten up and she finishes by pulling the laces again and tying them securely.

As I’m finished being corseted I open my mouth and start breathing again normally.

“Remind the chambermaid to air the room.” I let out a yawn.

“Of course miss Pyrecilla.” The maid nods.

Next is the dress, which requires a few layers, including petticoats and alike.

My hands only go down after the last main dress is put over my head.

I stand up and flatten any wrinkles on the surface while looking at the mirror.

Afterwards, when I’m satisfied with the result, I sit back down and the maid fashions my hair.

She removes the mobcap. picks up a comb and a few ribbons to tie the hair with.

After a few words I exchange with her, the maid prepares a style that would fit with a beret the most.

“Would miss mind if I suggested the style today?” The maid asks me, looking at my reflection.

“Is it cold outside?” I ask her.

“I suppose it is, but isn’t miss staying indoors today?” The maid asks.

“That is so, if I ever would pass on the opportunity to go outside.” I answer.

“Then, as per wish, I will prepare one fitting with a hat.” The maid tells me.

Indeed I might know something about the secret surprise ready, but it would be proper not to speak about it out loud.

Eventually, as the maid is finished, I can thank her for the work while looking at her creation in the mirror.

“I suppose this is fine.” I tell her.

“It was my pleasure serving you miss Pyrecilla.” The maid bows to me.

“Now that it’s finished, can I ask you about breakfast?” I inquire.

“Of course. Just a moment miss.” The maid hurries outside.

And after a while another maid knocks on the door while I wait, sitting on the sofa.

“Pardon miss, the breakfast arrived.” A woman’s voice says after knocking.

“Please come in.” I answer.

“Just as the miss ordered.” The maid enters, carrying the plate which she presents to me.

“Very well, you are excused.” I tell her.

“Thank you miss Pyrecilla.” The maid bows.

“But do please tell me before you leave.” I stop her because she closes the door. “How are the preparations going? How is miss Harrivetta?”

“Miss Harrivetta? She is also currently eating breakfast I suppose.” The maid ponders.

“Then I hope we are going to meet her soon, thank you.” I bob slightly to her.

“Of course, she will be waiting at the main hall miss Pyrecilla.” The maid says as she leaves.

I recall that Harrivetta said that we should all meet in the main hall to welcome our guests.

It would be similar from the time I have arrived here with Emmi.

That time she made her entrance a little late but also that was due to our long travel distance.

I can imagine she was really anticipating my visit thus she might have lost the sense of time.

Today will be different, I tell myself, while eating up breakfast quickly.

Lately I noticed that whenever I’m in the presence of Harrivetta and her family I eat more slowly.

Yet, back at my home I would hurry because of the school. That is to say, I want to enjoy the meal at peace,

whenever I get the time, but despite living in the mansion for a while now I still didn’t get many chances to satisfy my sweet tooth.

Ever since I came to this place I thought that I would be able all the delectables I want,

that since the bakery was connected by name, Harrivetta’s family specialised in confectionery.

But now that I think about it again, I never directly asked my friend if that rumour was true.

Then again, my stomach is constantly fighting the urge of breaking the fast,

but as a young lady of manners I mustn’t give in to the temptation of gluttony.

After all, the corset also helps reminds me with strengthening my deliberate restriction,

while the maid, who fastens it onto me, makes sure I’m reminded of that every morning.

Nevertheless, after a few more bites I feel like I had enough and finished eating.

Ladies like me must know their limits and not overextend their capacity.

With that I leave the rest in the hands of the maids and get up from the sofa.

Looking down I notice my high heels that the maid asked me to put on.

They are quite hard to walk in, but I recall Harrivetta manages somehow.

All I need to do is to walk slowly and straight, like a proper lady, I tell myself.

I exit the room and stay close to the wall. Step after step I feel that my ankles are rubbing against the dress.

I try to keep my head high and balance my body with my arms since I’m afraid of falling down,

but the more distance I cross the more I’m getting used to this style of walking.

Putting the heel down first, keeping your legs straight and looking ahead is the key.

Halfway of the corridor is the staircase. I could just go around it, but I felt like trying something today.

Before I met with Harrivetta I decided to test my abilities while climbing them down.

I hold the railing with both of my hands and take a single step. It’s quite a strain to my legs.

However, as I manage to climb down a single step and regain balance, I notice the problem.

It’s because when I place my feet down I look at them and bend forward. Thus, I try to do something else.

I hold my dress with one hand and touch the railing with the other. This technique works better.

I’m still afraid that I would take a wrong step, since I’m not looking down,

but as long as I feel the ground with my feet I should be fine, I think to myself.

And now, that I mastered the ability to walk down the stairs in shoes with these type of heels,

I feel like I could do anything if I wanted. That’s what I say to myself while looking around.

Luckily there was no maid in sight that would witness my trail, even though my face still reddens a little.

With that I let out a quiet sigh and made my way up the stairs and towards Harrivetta’s room.

“Harrivetta, can I intrude?” I ask while knocking on the door delicately.

“Aye, feel welcome to Pyrecilla.” The voice of my friend tells me.

As I enter I see the two girls preparing, with a single maid helping the older one.

Davithea doesn’t require as much maintenance as Harrivetta, since she is still little.

The blond haired girl however does I discover, as I watch how she is being corseted by her maid.

After a few seconds, she is done and turns her head towards me, while sitting straight on her stool.

“This dress appears familiar.” Harrivetta says looking at my attire. “Spoil me the intention if you will Pyrecilla.”

“I hoped to surprise you.” I say while presenting her the dress.

“Wow, you look pretty miss Pyrecilla.” Davithea says.

“It is something I wore in the past.” Harrivetta mentions so to the little girl. “I grew out of it since, but one day it would fit you too Davithea.”

“I suppose that is true.” I nod. “But you already look adorable in your own dress Davithea.”

“Hehe, I get those dresses from Harrie.” She explains.

While Davithea runs towards me and draws circles around me to examine my dress,

I stand still and turn my head a little, following the enthusiastic little miss with my eyes.

“It’s pretty, but I think I like mine better.” She tells me.

“That is fine Davithea. I say the attire suits you well.” I say.

“It’s because you look like an old sister.” The little one giggles.

“I concur.” Harrivetta released a muffled laugh.

“What would that make you, Harrivetta?” I tilt my head.

“Nothing less than a proper lady, right Davithea?” Harrivetta asks.

“But you don’t look like an old sister.” Davithea explains.

“That is a nice thing to say, Davithea.” I tell her.

“You look older than an old sister?” Davithea ponders. “Maybe not old like an old lady, but a little more mature.”

“Now that alone is fair enough.” Harrivetta pleads her to stop.

As the older sister with blond hair was getting ready, her younger friend started thinking.

It was as if she was trying to make a complement but lacked a decent word she could use.

Eventually she said sorry and got interested in Harrivetta’s gorgeous dress.

I admit I was watching it too, but only because I might have been a little jealous.

Hers had ribbon decorations and a set of frills that weighted the frock and increased the overall fluffiness.

She appeared as a princess to me, and one day perhaps I would be fortunate enough to wear something similar.

But nevertheless it is her family she is meeting, not mine, I tell myself.

Me and Davithea are merely decorations for her, hence we should dress a little more modestly.

But then again, it appears that the little girl is more interested in fashioning Harrivetta’s hair,

than to realise the importance of the meeting for her friend. I sigh, as I try to calm her down a little.

“This is indeed pretty, but let miss Harrivetta decide first.” I tell her.

“I can put another ribbon if she doesn’t like this one.” Davithea replies.

“I suppose, but her hair already looks furnished.” I try to explain.

“I will ask the maid for more!” Davithea exclaims.

“That’s not the issue, Davithea.” I say.

“I agree, her hair is too short.” Davithea punts.

“Please allow me to work.” The worried maid whispers to Harrivetta.

Eventually the little girl stopped fastening ribbons onto her friend’s hair.

They were temporary anyway and only functioned as an assist to the comb.

Now, with the finished brushing and stylising, Harrivetta’s hair looks beautiful.

It’s both wavy and spread out, dancing left and right as she turns her head around.

This is professional maid work that I only hope that Emmi can replicate.

“Dare I say you look stunning Harrivetta.” I compliment my friend.

“Worth the wait I suppose.” Harrivetta sighs.

“Tired? Have you eaten yet?” I say worried.

“Nay, but we haven’t much time.” She says while looking at the window

“I could ask the maids.” I suggest.

“I pardon, I will be fine.” She says while her maid applies makeup to her face.

“Do you plan on not eating?” I ask her.

“I haven’t the time, please look. ”She points at the courtyard outside.

There appears to be a carriage arriving at the gate. It is slowly moving through the snow,

but I would say we would have about a minute more before we need to be at the stairs.

This is not enough time to eat anything, but enough for a simple foundation makeup.

Me and Davithea are a little too young however to be playing around with cosmetics.

And furthermore, it is her who is more important, so I decide I would pass on that.

“Say Davithea, aren’t you a little anxious?” I ask my friend.

“I never met Harrie’s other family.” She explains.

“Yet, you did your best to pretty her up, didn’t you?” I tell her. “That must be because you wanted her to leave a good impression, correct?”

“I just didn’t want her to look old.” Davithea smirks.

“However, her purpose was to look mature, don’t you think?” I reply.

“Mature and old are the same things, right?” Davithea tilts her head.

“I suppose if you look at it from your point of view.” I explain. “There are times however it is fine to appear more adult like in order to earn respect of others.”

“Like an older sister?” Davithea ponders.

“Yes, that is right, like an older sister.” I continue. “Because if the older sister isn’t respected by others, she would be taken as improper and callow.”

“Okay, I see!” Davithea realises. “That’s like her father, I think?”

Before the blond girl is able to comment on anything, Davithea bites her tongue.

That comment about her father must have upset her a little as she stood up, making her stomp echo through the room.

“I presume it’s time, they await us at the main hall.” Harrivetta says while regaining her composure.

“I do think so as well.” I nod.

“Okay! Let’s go then.” Davithea happily runs out of the room.

“After you miss Harrivetta.” The maid holds the door for her.

Finally, after a morning of getting ready, the three of us leave the room and walk the carpet.

I am a little anxious, especially with Harrivetta’s mood being the unknown,

but as a decoration I simply have to walk with her on the left side, while Davithea follows her on the right side.

As we march through the corridor, with absolutely everything else prepared already,

I noticed that I will have to climb the stairs down from the outer side.

I only practised it once and near the railing, so I’m not quite sure what will happen.

Before I am even able to say or do anything, we are already there.

I hold Harrivetta’s hand, or rather she holds mine and we all take a step down.

Davithea is one with the least difficulty, as she climbs down ahead of us.

Harrivetta holds her little friend’s palm with her right hand, while having the left one lift her dress up a little.

Since I am holding onto is that one, my blond friend forces me slightly forward,

but I don’t fall and keep my balance, while lifting my dress with my remaining hand.

This all might look complicated, and for my legs it is, but I manage to keep up with the pace.

Somehow, despite our difference in height, me and Harrivetta are able to synchronise our movements,

and climb down the stairs with little trouble. That is to say, she is not only taller than me,

but also her grip is that of a strong person. I could say that we all managed to reach the midpoint thanks to her.

“Good morning. It is a pleasure seeing you all again.” Harrivetta says while dropping a crusty.

“Hello, I’m Davithea.” The little one says bobbing.

“My name is Pyrecilla Abronova. Good morning.” I say while dropping crusty.

The three people that were looking up at us were dressed nicely for the occasion,

but didn’t appear as if they were trying to appear elegant. Their attire was noticeably more casual than Harrivetta’s.

“Hello there ladies!” The oldest one says. ”Apart from Harrie, you don’t know my name, isn’t that right? I’m her aunt, miss Gnezevia Francishia.”

“My name is Yevdoshie Francishia.” The lady with medium brown hair says. “And she is…”

“I’m Urhichatta Francishia.” The girl with short brown hair says. “I’m the younger than doshie however, but we are both Harrie’s older sisters.”

Comparatively Urhichatta is taller than Yevdoshie, but apparently she is younger.

I can’t tell just because of their face, but also they appear to wear similar dresses,

and their hair styles are not far from each other. On the other hand, there is the aunt.

She dons attire with thick fur that is quite fluffy and expensive looking.

Although she looks quite old, and her dress isn’t made out of bright colours,

I can understand why an older person would choose this kind of fashion.

“Okay then Harrie, how about you take your friends and we all eat?” The aunt suggests. “It’s only expected if the guests arrive this early that well all have breakfast together.”

“That is a sound idea, we were in such a hurry.” Yevdoshie giggles.

“Doshie simply has an appetite, don’t mind her.” Urhichatta adds.

Before the three of us are able to move and take the stairs down, Gorgie,

who appeared running down the stairs, caught everyone’s attention.

“Oh there is Gorgie too!” Aunts exclaims happily. “Come to me little boy.”

And as he runs down toward the aunt, Harrivetta’s father and mother enter the scene through the side door.

“Good morning sister, Yevdoshie and Urhichatta.” The father bows to each.

“It is a pleasure to meet you on this wonderful morning.” The mother then bows to the guest.

“How have you been brother? I haven’t seen you since the ball at Illifucias.” The aunt says.

“There are work matters.” The father explains. “I haven’t had a day of rest.”

“Well you got to think of it, since soon there is going to a meeting at Granostrias.” The aunt explains. “It's open house since they are celebrating the opening of a business venture.”

“I would love to know more, Gnezevia, but please not here.” The mother pleads to her.

“Of course, absolutely.” The aunt says.

“That’s great, let us go then.” Yevdoshie says.

The company starts trading their greetings with one another as we three climb the stairs down.

The father, mother, aunt and all the siblings embrace each other one by one,

exchange kisses on the cheeks, and shake hands. Surprisingly Harrivetta isn’t the one that gets the most attention.

The two sisters and the aunt take notice of a little girl who appears to them as an angel.

It is Davithea who gets petted on the head, caressed and who is talked about.

Not even Gorgie can compare, although he does receive just a little acknowledgement.

The group finally moves to the dining room, after the maids get a little tired from just standing around.

But as we do, I can finally see the long table getting filled completely.

Rarely do I see this many people eating together, and at the time some,

I don’t often see this many family members in one room unless it’s an important holiday.

Perhaps I’m just used to having dinner with my mother and Emmi each day.

The food that goes into the room on trolleys is surprisingly quickly taken care off.

Of course I already ate so a second breakfast isn’t what I’m looking forward to.

However, because I didn’t put a lot on my plate, I’m asked instead to work my mouth by speaking.

“Your name is Abronova, you said?” Yevdoshie asks me.

“That is correct.” I nod.

“Your mother is that lady then?” Urhichatta looks at me with a weird expression.

“I pardon?” I tilt my head.

“That’s nothing, don’t pay those words mind.” Urhichatta mentions.

“My mother is that well known? I feel humbled.” I reply a bit annoyed.

“She didn’t mean it in a bad way.” Yevdoshie corrects her sister.

“What did she desire to convey then?” I ask her.

“Your mother is quite popular for good reason, of course.” Urhichatta explains. “And besides, I was simply a little confounded when it realised who you are, if you understand.”

“Is it so, that is good to hear.” I let out some air in relief.

Knowing how they avoided touching the upon subject my mother must be infamous.

Her reputation outside the village must be due to how she always works indoors.

I wish I could take a stand here and explain what kind of person is my mother,

however that would be improper, due place and the atmosphere we are in.

Just like Harrivetta said, I don’t think exchanging opinions now would benefit me or my mother.

Just like Harrivetta said, I don’t think acting out of the role of a guest would help anyone here.

Therefore I will just pretend that I heard nothing and continue with the breakfast.

“Hey Davithea, do you want to go sleigh ride? We are planning one after breakfast.” Urhichatta tells the little girl.

“The sleigh ride is when you connect sledges together and go full gallop?” Davithea exclaims enthusiastically.

“It is indeed like that! And there are many horses and we go through forests too.” Yevdoshie adds.

“That sounds really fun! I only saw a picture in a book.” Davithea says.

“Indeed it is fun, especially that we can do it with the entire family.” Yevdoshie explains. “Tell me Davithea how does Harrie treats you?”

“She is like an older sister, she always complains.” Davithea giggles and the two brown haired girls laugh as well.

“Say Davithea, how long have you been living here?” Urhichatta asks.

“About a month or two. Why did you ask?” Davithea replies.

“Because I have been hearing from father about you.” Urhichatta explains. “Harrivetta wants to adopt you as a sister, but you haven’t yet met us, didn’t you?”

“That’s right! I haven’t yet met everyone.” Davithea explains.

“It’s just that we don’t know much about you.” Yevdoshie mentions. “We just happen to travel to places, mansions, towns and such. Visits like this one now don’t give us a lot of time to talk.”

“Is that really so? I never knew.” Davithea responds.

“Doshie meant that you can come with us if you like.” Urhichatta corrects. “You don’t need to say at home. You can instead travel from city to city and see a lot of places.”

“I suppose that sounds fun, but I have school soon and I want to stay with miss Harrivetta.” Davithea says.

“Miss Harrivetta?” Yevdoshie giggles.

The two older sisters have exchanged their word with the little Davithea.

It doesn’t appear to have a good effect on Harrivetta, who interjected herself into conversation.

“Me and Davithea attend the same school.” Harrivetta explains. “And so I don’t see a reason for her to consider a period of leave.”

“She goes to school and you take care of her?” Yevdoshie asks.

“It’s not a problem I think.” Urhichatta says. “Aunt is a governess as you know, she can take care of her education better than your school.”

“Of course! Have I not heard complaints from you Harrivetta I would doubt.” Yevdoshie mentions. “What do you think Davithea? Is the school adequate for you?”

“I believe it is.” Harrivetta responds. “Ask either of us if you must.”

Saying that, Harrivetta looks at me and then at Davithea. She requires our support from the looks of it.

“I don’t see a problem with the school.” I respond.

“It’s fun and I get a lot of help with Harrivetta.” Davithea says.

“Pardon my injury, but wasn’t there an arrest at the school grounds?” Urhichatta mentions.

“An arrest?” Davithea tilts her head.

“A man posing as a father of one of the students caused turmoil.” Yevdoshie explains. “It reached the newspaper so you must have heard of it too I presume?”

“But he wasn’t a father, so your news are wrong.” Davithea states.

Before others could continue talking, the five of us ladies paused and started thinking.

The situation was as such. Davithea, unknowingly admitted to the doubtful reputation of the school.

She also said that it was not a father, meaning that she was possibly involved in the accident.

Furthermore, since me or Harrivetta also were a part of it, we could turn the tables.

But there was one problem. I recall that Harrivetta said that putting that man into the jail was a good decision.

Yet, I never learned what Davithea or others said. Hence this topic wasn’t only about her,

but also my reputation as a person. In my mind I had two choices, either talk or let Harrivetta say something.

“Well now good ladies, please don’t say words that would ruin the mood.” The aunt says and surprises us. “Whatever happened at school was the correct thing. There was an unpleasant ruffian that was quickly dealt with, that is all there is to it.”

“Yes but does that guarantee that our daughter will be safe in future?” The father asks.

“I am sure that after hearing one incident taken care of so professionally you should not worry.” The aunt voices. “Besides I think it would be unwise for Harrivetta to change schools so close to graduation.”

“You are right Gnezevia.” The mother adds. “She is doing great in terms of studies, thus must we worry so pointlessly? I do not hold that opinion.”

“That is correct mother. Please do not worry about me or Davithea.” Harrivetta adds.

“Harrie you shouldn’t worry either.” The little black haired girl says.

“Of course my dear Davithea. I am sorry to cause your anxiousness.” Harrivetta says. “In the meantime I must excuse myself. I require time for preparations for the sleigh ride.”

It is indeed as Harrivetta says, breakfast is long over and the maids already left.

What is left to do is to think of the future, which is the sleigh ride, together with the entire family.

If she is to attend that event she definitely needs to change from that expensive dress.

It would only dirt it in snow if she decided to carry all the fluff outside.

But on the other hand I wonder if I should feel invited too. I ponder a little,

when I discover that before I am able to stand up and leave, the two sisters stop me in the hallway.

“Ah, there you are Pyrecilla. I was thinking of asking you something.” Urhichatta waves and beckons to come.

“Why of course, what is the matter?” I tilt my head as I stop near them.

“You are a guest here right? It’s because maestro Salayev is going to become your teacher, right?” Urhichatta asks me.

“I suppose that is correct.” I nod my head.

“I knew! Our aunt is his secret admirer, but don’t tell anyone.” Urhichatta mentions. “Besides I feel you would find him easy to like too. He is very straightforward and likes bright minds.”

“It is a prospect I suppose.” I starch my head.

“Besides that Pyrecilla.” Yevdoshie interjects. “Before Chatta bores you, feel free to be invited to the sleigh ride with us. It would be cruel to leave you out.”

“Thank you with pleasure.” I bob gently. “I will be looking forward to the outing.”

Before I was left alone however, Davithea was looking around for someone.

However, she could find her person of interest, thus decided to join our group and ask.

“Hey ladies, have you seen Gorgie anywhere?” Davithea inquires.

“Didn’t he go to his room?” Yevdoshie ponders.

“He might have said something looking forward to the ride.” Urhichatta metions.

“But I think he was showing that he wanted to change?” Yevdoshie suggests.

“Whichever is the case, he went to his room.” Urhichatta says. “You know where it is right?”

“I don’t! I was playing hide-and-seek for that purpose but we stopped at Harrivetta’s room.” Davithea explains half-joking.

“It’s the last room in the corridor, next to mine.” I explain her.

“That’s it? Okay, then I’m going. Pardon me ladies!” Davithea waves and runs up the stairs.

I have to say that my mind is a little dizzy, perhaps from the corset or the exchange.

Whichever is the case I want to say that the two treat Davithea much like Harrivetta’s father does.

Not only that, they also spoke about my mother in a way that raises doubt.

Naturally, that would be considered a negative and offensive comment,

but I was not in power to deny what they said by simply providing a counter statement.

It is because if I did that I would have played into their cards.

In case if I would deny the rumours, providing other evidence, I would then be one aggressive,

trying to force my opinion onto others. If I were to agree with their claims,

speaking ill of my mother, then I would simply blemish my reputation as well as my family.

This is what is called a double bind, a tactic which manipulators use in order to trap their victims.

However you are going to respond will have negative consequences, and thus there is little you can do.

Opting to not engage in the conversation is a valid strategy against it, I think, so that’s why I decided to stay silent.

“In the passing Pyrecilla, what do you think about our family?” Yevdoshie asks me out of the blue.

“My sister wants to express her thanks that you came and hope you enjoy your stay.” Urhichatta explains for her.

“If that is what you wish to hear then I wish to thank you for the generous reception.” I drop a small curtsy. “I believe it would be enough to say that the treatment I receive from everyone is close to that of a family member. Still, I have yet to express my gratitude to the parents formally with my mother.”

“That would be splendid. I also await meeting your mother.” Yevdoshie says.

“She is a great inspiration for us.” Urhichatta adds. “But if I said in front of mother she would sulk down.”

“That would be a disaster indeed.” Yevdoshie giggles a little. “But forgive us for the defamatory word doing the meal.”

“Yes, we tried to explain but any further would be too much.” Urhichatta mentions.

“Then I am forever glad with relief that this matter is solved.” I let out some air.

“If you ever want to talk with us about mother, feel unrestrained to do so.” Yevdoshie tells me.

“I presume meeting her personally would be preferable, but you will have to suffice as a substitute for now Pyrecilla.” Urhichatta lets out a guff.

“I will keep that in mind.” I answer them.

Pyrecilla was visibly tired from the conversation and decided to leave the two ladies.

Her destination is the stairs, which she climbs with her mind weighted by something heavy.

She almost trips and falls down in the middle but manages to hang onto the rail.

Every part of her body feels a little bulky to operate but she needs to go back to her room,

change her dress, dress her boosts designed for snow travel and perhaps rest a little.

All that knowing that she will once again go back to the source of her problems.

Pyrecilla isn’t able to change anything in this family, although she would like to help Harrivetta.

First it was Davithea and how she was treated. Now it’s her mother and things the older sisters say about her.

What do they mean exactly by “inspiration”, the red haired girl wonders. Is it that she doesn’t visit the salons?

Perhaps she is famous due to her work as an accountant? Or that she has many connections?

The answer should be clear for her daughter however, since she knows her mother quite well.

If she had the chance she would tell everyone what she thinks about the slander.

However, she also knows that most of her reputation actually comes from the judging of the court in the divorce case with her former husband.

It is that incident which people from good houses remember and perceive Pyrecilla’s mother with.

But the girl knows that those rumours are all lies people are making up, she knows the real truth.

Yet, what chances she has to battle the lies with the truth? Not much in her mind.

“Do you mind if we converse?” There is a knock on the door.

“I believe not. Please come in Harrivetta.” Pyrecilla answers.

After the cerise eye girl arrived at her room, she sat down and started thinking.

However, her deliberation was interrupted by her friend visiting.

Without a word more, the blond girl entered and went to an empty seat opposite to Pyrecilla.

She was no longer wearing her gorgeous dress, just her usual, casual clothes.

Only after mustering her courage and releasing air, Harrivetta decided to talk.

“I have to disclose a word to you.” Harrivetta states. “I will start by apologising for my family’s behaviour first. It was uncalled for them to slander your family’s name, despite what they might think of your mother.”

“That is fair. They apologised to me already.” Pyrecilla mentions.

Even though that “pardon” wasn’t really a way of stating their regret to the red haired girl.

“And furthermore I have to bring up the subject of Davithea.” Harrivetta continues. “Our history starts when I met her in the town, helping her out from someone pursuing her. I handed her some money and offered help, but she denied. I saw her again many times later, but her reaction was the same. It was only after I asked if she wanted to go to school she opened herself to me.”

“Since you discern that she was not safe on the streets I presume.” Pyrecilla adds.

“That is so indeed.” Harrivetta nods. “Following days were peaceful until the man showed up again. I knew that nothing could be done by the police, since she was an orphan, thus I decided to solve the issue myself. The only way I found reasonable was to transfer her to another orphanage. That also wasn’t possible.”

“Thus I presume you had little choice left?” Pyrecilla says.

“Precisely so. Adopting was my only option, despite that she isn’t still officially a part of our family as of now. My father was the one who denied her.” Harrivetta tells the girl. “But I do not know why the parents react in such a way. It was a chance for both her and Gorgie. We do not despite my little brother, at least I hold that opinion, but he also has problems with making friends outside of this house, thus he prefers books.”

“It’s his condition right?” Pyrecilla asks.

“To say that is untrue would be not misleading.” Harrivetta continues. “However, hear me well with what I am about to say.”

“I shall Harrivetta, go on.” Pyrecilla tells her.

“In storks a cruel selection is present.” Harrivetta explains. “With four initial offspring, the parents need to decide if the food they can hunt is enough to feed all equally. If that is not the case, they are forced to eliminate the weakest one, the one that has the least potential, in order to increase the chances of survival for the rest. Comparatively humans aren’t the same however, but when it comes to families with children that have a clear dysfunction, you won’t find them in villages.”

In my mind, some ideas surfaced as to why Gorgie was treated that way all this time.

He is only able to be alive thanks to the wealth of his family, people who are humans,

not animals which are without sympathy. However, the cruel truth is that his future doesn’t look joyful.

It is simply because he is different, I fear, that the boy is never going to become popular or successful.

Is there anything I could do for him, I wonder. Perhaps the only person who would be able is Davithea.

“That is why you asked Davithea to help him build up confidence?” I asks. “Now I understand it slightly better, yes. You have a golden heart Harrivetta.”

“But as you can see, my family is far from being convinced.” Harrivetta says. “The plan to bring Davithea in was not as successful as I thought. You know very well how she was treated by my sisters, correct?”

“I do yes, I saw them treating her like a source of amusement.” I tell her.

“A mere maid who was dressed like a doll, a marionette.” Harrivetta laments. “But what worries me the most is not my sisters but Davithea herself. I desire for her autonomy, for her to grow into a fine lady, unlike Yevdoshie or Urhichatta. The first step is to make her acknowledge the reality of her carefreeness, which is difficult.”

“Then perhaps that is why you came to me?” I assess. “Then you ask of me to take care of her, to teach her how to become more assertive?”

Since that is the trait Harrivetta respects me the most for I think.

“You heard her right, correct? She said man, instead of her father.” Harrivetta points out. “For her to take cognizance of her situation is what is desired.”

She clearly stated man, Pyrecilla can’t deny that Davithea said that.

“I promised her father that I will take care of her, that I will one day make her understand.” Harrivetta sulks down. “A family is not something easily formed, it requires much effort. But once the bonds are formed, not just between mother and son, or father and daughter, but when the entire family becomes as one body, those affinities can prevail through any hardships, be it the loss of one’s important other, or physical defects.”

“Family like that…sure is something.” Pyrecilla adds with a faint voice.

“But depress not about my case.” Harrivetta raises her friend’s face with her hand. “You are welcome here. Please remember that.”

And then she embraces her warmly. The two ladies stay this way for a little while.

It’s not just Pyrecilla who needed this moment, but Harrivetta as well.

“Harrivetta, I’m thankful.” Pyrecilla manages to voice.

“It is fine, I shall be there for you.” Harrivetta tells her.

This confession made the red haired realise something important. Her family,

the connection between her and her mother is the most important bond she has.

Losing it due anything would be utterly crushing to her mind and completely devastating to her body.

But at the same time, Harrivetta’s perfect family is different. She desires a congregation of like-minded people,

living under one roof, helping each other in need and providing support mentally.

However, in reality her family is far from that image. The truth is that she has an annoying father,

badmouthing older sisters and a mother who only can put a happy face.

Those who suffer because of that, Davithea and Gorgie, can’t do anything.

Not even Harrivetta, despite that she tried, can’t repair this dysfunctional household.

Then would pursuing a perfect family be a goal achievable by human hand?

Perhaps it would be better for Gorgie if the family would just let him read books, just like Pyrecilla does in her free time.

Perhaps it would be better for Davithea if Harrivetta allowed her to act as maid, just like Pyrecilla does help out Emmi in the house.

Perhaps it would be better for the family members to think of themselves more, rather than surrendering their freedom to others?

Then what will the red haired girl have to do in order for her friend to be happy?

What if she simply can’t help? Would suggesting the alternative be efficient for Harrivetta?

Right now, the cerise eyed girl is not quite sure, but perhaps later she will find an opportunity,

she would discover a way to help her friend to avoid living under these conditions.

“May I intrude?” A maid says from the corridor.

“Please don’t mind. What is the issue?” I answer her.

“The sleight is waiting for you, misses.” The maid informs us.

“Then shall we go, Pyrecilla?” Harrivetta says as she stands up and stretches her hand towards me.

“Yes Harrivetta, but let me change first.” I answer as the maid comes in.

“I pardon that I have taken your time.” Harrivetta bows to me. “I will be waiting at the door.”

With that the blond haired girl excuses herself and I change my shoes with the help of the maid.