Part 4

Now that the initial problems had been dealt with, Rebecca could return to the task at hand, the resumption of control over the county of Lichfield. Having heard from Heather that the Duchy was being managed by the Royal Family directly, she decided it best to pay a visit to Stonekeep in person, as letters can be forged but her skills as a mage would leave them with no doubt. Picking who to go with her was slightly tricky, though.

"Hamlin, I need your thoughts." Rebecca said, as they ate breakfast in the dining hall of the Ashe Manor. "I need a show of force but I also can't look to be intimidating the useless King quite yet."

"I take it you will wish for me to remain here." Hamlin said, smiling broadly.

"That would be best, yes. You, Victoria, and Serge are a bit much to be bringing. But I also can't bring just Heather, Jacob, and Marvin." Rebecca answered, before taking another bite of the sausage on her plate.

"There is a... local rusalka." Heather ventured, after chewing his food. "She's an odd sort, prefers warm climates."

"A pet rusalka on a leash seems a bit gauche even for you." Hamlin said, offering his opinion.

"Unfortunately I agree." Rebecca said, as she tapped her fork on her plate, thinking. "Keep her in mind for later uses. I can't expect Victoria and Serge to eat everyone."

"We'll put her on a list. Rusalki are always picky eaters." Heather said, nodding.

"Why do you need more than just us, Boss?" Marv asked, his mouth full of food.

"Marvin, I'll forgive you for now, but if you can't learn to not talk while eating once I start entertaining nobility, you will not be allowed to eat with the guests. Do I make myself clear?" Rebecca stated, putting down her utensils and staring at Marv until he nodded. "Good. Because I am a Duchess, Marvin. A husband and two retainers is enough for Baroness and maybe even a Countess. A Duchess shouldn't be seen making a formal visit with any less than 10 people, ideally 20."

"Duchess, where are we going to find 10 more people?" Jacob asked as he refilled Rebecca's coffee cup, before returning to his seat.

"Jacob you're catching on much quicker than Marvin. Thank you." Rebecca said, gesturing to the cup before taking a sip. "I have an idea. Jacob, go to the library, 4th bookshelf on the left when you enter, 2nd shelf from the bottom, 17th book from the right."

Jacob nodded and left the room.