Albina smiled warmly at Edgar’s reflections on religious tolerance. “I share your sentiments, Lord Edgar,” she began. “In a world with diverse beliefs, the essence of humanity lies in embracing and understanding one another. I’m grateful, too, for the tolerance promoted by King Rupert. It’s a step towards unity in our pursuit of shared values.”
Albina was quite anti-monarchy and did not agree with Edgar. While maybe King Rupert was a touch more progressive than those in history, there was still much more progress to be made and he was not as successful and everyone was ought to think, but she was not one to discuss her views with just anyone, she knew better than to share those sentiments with anyone in reality. When such thoughts could get you beheaded, she was most careful. Even in the comfort of her estate.
With a mischievous glint in her eyes, Albina chuckled at Edgar’s surprised expression when she revealed her knowledge of German. “Ich glaube, dass mein Deutsch in der Tat recht versiert ist. I have a penchant for languages, and German is among the few I’ve dabbled in out of curiousity. It’s a delight to explore different linguistic realms,” she admitted with a playful smile.
As the conversation shifted to the delicate matter of family history, Albina nodded in agreement with Edgar’s decision to set it aside for the time being. She appreciated his understanding and the mutual decision to tread lightly. “Agreed, Lord Edgar. Let us focus on the present and the delightful exchange of ideas,” she responded, her tone warm and reassuring.
When the topic turned to Christmas and Edgar’s mention of Bavarian customs, Albina’s curiosity heightened. His closing of the eyes seemed to carry a deeper sentiment, and she listened attentively to his words. “It’s fascinating to think about the shared customs and traditions that transcend borders,” she remarked. “I’d love to hear more about the unique Bavarian touch to Christmas celebrations. Perhaps you could share a cherished tradition or a special Bavarian dish associated with the holiday?”
“Ah, well, Lord Edgar, you’ve keenly observed. I’ve had the good fortune of picking up a few languages along the way, including German,” she replied with a playful twinkle in her eye. “But I’m always up for learning something new. How about you teach me a word that holds a special place in Bavarian culture? Something unique and delightful.” She leaned in with genuine interest, eager to embrace the linguistic richness of Edgar’s heritage.
As the conversation took an unexpected turn with Edgar’s acceptance of the tree-climbing challenge, Albina couldn’t contain her excitement. She glanced toward the imposing tree outside and then back at Edgar with a teasing grin. “Absolutely, Lord Edgar! If you’re up for the challenge, why not seize the moment?” She pondered for a moment, her mischievous smile widening. “I’ll tell you what - I have an idea how it becomes possible for me to climb the tree alongside you, so I shall accompany you on this endeavour.”
She, Edgar and her brother chaperoning them moved from the sitting room to the hallway, where Albina opened one of the closets, searching it for something which would work for her plan. After a few seconds, she found an old shawl. It was perfect - it would be a most perfect makeshift skirt to protect her dress. She tied it around her dress, almost like an additional layer to shield the dress underneath. To secure it in place further, and prevent the shawl from slipping down, she tied a scarf a little above her knees. Once everything was in place, she gave Edgar a small smile and said softly but excitedly, “I believe I am ready to embark on this endeavor now.”
Albina and Edgar, accompanied by her brother as a chaperone, made their way to the backyard of the Northwick estate, where a solitary English Oak stood tall—a perfect tree for climbing. The idea of conquering the heights excited Albina, and she couldn’t resist teasing Edgar a bit, “I believe we shall be up at the highest parts of the tree in seconds.”
Climbing the tree is something Albina had actually done as a child. It had been a few years however, but she remembered it was quite doable due to the tree having robust perfectly placed and balanced branches. Now, with a more serious tone she spoke, “I shall show you the easiest route, Lord Edgar, not to worry, you will be able to do this.” She exchanged looks with her brother as she was ready to start climbing, who seemed to be perfectly fine with his sister doing this, he trusted in her capabilities to do this without putting herself at risk. He knew she knew was she was doing.
So, Albina went ahead and pulled herself up the lowest branch of the tree, the first time she had not quite enough momentum to get herself up there, restricted by her makeshift dress, but on the second try she was successful. “Some strength in your arms is required to reach this lowest branch,” she explained, “but once you have reached this branch, it shall become easier.” she looked down at Edgar with a reassuring smile. She then more easily climbed up the next two branches, before encouraging Edgar to climb up, “Lord Edgar, the time has come for you to overcome this fear and push yourself to experience something new,” She added playfully, “without there being a need to be confronted with an approaching death.”
She then took a second to appreciate the view, as she waited for Edgar to climb up. From within the tree there was a nice overview of the gardens of the Northwick estate. She got reminded of why she had enjoyed climbing this tree as a child. She knew she was not supposed to do these types of things anymore being out in society, she was not a child anymore, but nevertheless she enjoyed the moment of playfulness of this activity she and Edgar had undertaken together. At that moment however, Albina found herself become a touch emotional. Being so caught up taking care of her siblings, following her pursuit for knowledge, she had not felt so free in a while. Free from the restriction of society, free from any responsibilities and expectations being put on her. She felt like a child once again, enjoying something as silly as climbing a tree.
@Ouijaloveletters - Edgar