Feylore

Compliance

Carlotta von Schnappenberg was a woman with poise, who carried such an aura of seriousness that most people would be ashamed if they were to act unruly around her.
Her husband, Albrecht...not so much in that regard.
He was a passionate and kind man. Often too joyous even with the looming issues around their families.
Carlotta watched as her husband gives away barrels and barrels of beer to lesser known vampwelves, who were in turn celebrating their own, useless achievements. They had no right to be happy.
Albrecht von Biermann
Yes, yes! Take as many samples as you wish, they're all yours-!
Albrecht von Biermann
You'd like the haus special? Of course, of course!
Albrecht von Biermann
My family has been perfecting these recipes for ages. Now, I bring the joy of beer to you all!
She couldn't help but shake her head at that.
How could he be so joyous when there was conflicts of interest to address?
Carlotta von Schnappenberg
Albrecht. Do you have a moment?
Albrecht von Biermann
Oh? Yes, of course! Ah, excuse me. I shall be with my liebchen.
Albrecht von Biermann
Be seeing you! There will be more to come!
So the two of them head somewhere private, somewhere they can call safe. It's hard when you're inside the territory of another House.
When Carlotta gazes towards her husband, his face goes from a beaming joy to a more gentle smile, as if he already knew what was to come.
She can't help but feel just a bit of guilt over what she wanted to tell him.
Albrecht von Biermann
Is everything alright, my darling?
Carlotta von Schnappenberg
No.
He tilts his head at that.
Carlotta von Schnappenberg
Let me ask you, Albrecht.
Carlotta von Schnappenberg
Why are you so friendly with vampwelves who could very much kill us should we turn our backs?
Carlotta von Schnappenberg
You know very well they can see your weakness.
Carlotta von Schnappenberg
So why do you still show kindness?
Albrecht von Biermann
.....
Albrecht von Biermann
It's not wrong to be kind.
Albrecht von Biermann
The Biermanns have built good relations for generations now, you see.
Albrecht von Biermann
It is alright to be closed off, but...not all the time!
Carlotta von Schnappenberg
...I am just afraid.
Carlotta von Schnappenberg
If we keep this up, they will see our children as weak!
Carlotta von Schnappenberg
And what of dear ██████?
Hearing the old name of his son, Albrecht recoiled.
It was not something he wanted to hear.
Because it was him who encouraged his boy to be brave. Yet the thought of correcting her on his son's name never crossed his mind.
Why would he, when he loves her so?
Albrecht von Biermann
Carlotta, my dear. I know it is not easy to convince you.
Albrecht von Biermann
But it is okay to loosen up, sometimes.
Albrecht von Biermann
Our kin will be fine. They must shape the path for our families, yes...
Albrecht von Biermann
I have every trust in them to do well.
Carlotta let out another heavy sigh, unsure of his words. She had dealt with a lot in her life. So much loss...
She loved Albrecht however. Giving him a chance wouldn't hurt, right?
Carlotta von Schnappenberg
Indeed, you do.
Carlotta von Schnappenberg
I suppose I will let it slide for now.
The older man took her hand, kissing the back of it with a grin.
He had hope that she would accept his trust in their children, especially with their heir.
Albrecht von Biermann
Shall we head back, then? I'll prepare a special glass just for you.
If only she could believe in him completely. Carlotta was afraid, and understandably so.
Still, for their families' sake, she'll try.
Carlotta von Schnappenberg
Of course, Albrecht. You always do.
If all were to go awry, at least they'll have each other.