Post by Deleted on Feb 2, 2016 0:45:38 GMT -5
The letter arrived the evening before bearing the baron's seal, a heavy packet of vellum that instantly reminded her of home and of the man who sent it. With a heavy heart, Anneliese broke the seal and read the contents, letting out a sigh. As expected, the summons to return home with an accounting had arrived. She decided not to speak of it that evening, instead opting to address the matter over breakfast with her family.
There was no question of her returning to Otterloh, of course. Anneliese, as the baron's daughter, had to be the bearer of the news regarding his son's disappearance and with it, the confirmation of Erick as his heir. Searches for Gabriel had come to nothing; her brother was gone without a trace and indications of his return were non-existent. Whether any of the family opted to travel with her remained to be seen, but the choice was theirs to make.
She stalled quite deliberately until the meal was nearly done before she cleared her throat in an effort to gain attention. Producing the letter with the seal readily visible, Anneliese spoke quickly in a desire to have it out there. "Father has summoned me home. There is news that there is a delegation from the Crown Princess going to Vanderhall, and he wishes to know about Gabriel. It is not a summons for any of you, unless you wish to return north with me. But you are welcome to stay here if you prefer."
Offering the letter for inspection, she smiled weakly. "I am sorry to spring it on you all, but I only received this last night and must depart tomorrow, so time is of the essence. What are your thoughts?"
@alaricvann, @vann