her grace

pink lipped, cherry blush and golden haired - she runs through the fields with her head thrown back and a sunshine smile. it is among the grassy pastures where she feels most at home. she dreams to live among mother nature's naturally crafted world. she is rosalia de barcelos of portugal. 

[rosaliadebarcelos]

euphemiaofscotland‌:

euphemia was much too polite to argue with another, especially in so public a setting. if she were, perhaps she might have mentioned that hunting was necessary for survival, that without it, they would be relegated to vegetables and the herbs that grew so slowly in scotland. but instead she merely nodded, her eyes confused. when she spoke, her words were calm. “it is not a pastime for everyone.”

she nodded, already wondering if the italian artist she’d seen around the castle would be willing to come to scotland to paint her terriers when they all eventually returned home. but now, he focus remained on rosalia. her lips pressed together and her eyes were kind. “that is understandable. i have every reason to believe you will do him credit.” her voice was nearly a whisper and if euphemia felt out of her depth, she certainly did not say so. “i am fine. my son and i were quite lucky.” she made no mention of her husband, though there seemed no need to.

rosalia did not enjoy speaking anymore of the sport and so she strayed from the topic, keeping her eyes on the other woman - a softness that always seemed to embody her being. 

“if you ever find yourself in need of recommendations, I would gladly offer - there have been a few who have done some for me before.” the hassle was there as communication and time were both required but she was lucky enough to have the resources and the ability to afford such accommodations. “may God bless you both,” the words murmured as she murmured her catholic prayers. she was still learning to grow from her own grief - her mind often troubled as she tossed and turned in bed. such nightmares plagued her but it was the comfort of her family that kept her smiling - no matter how painful. 

[rosaliadebarcelos]

bastardparma‌:

@rosaliadebarcelos​

    he had just come back from a hunt, pheasant slung over his shoulder as he grinned in victory. he would often go out like this when he needed to clear his head, or when he was not seeking out a drink. his dogs also enjoyed the exercise, eagerly tracking down a meal to fill their bellies. now they were placated & both walked by his side. at least, allegra did – her partner on the other hand, was now being yelled at. “guido, slow down, you brat !” alessandro exclaimed as his hound took off, ignoring all calls from its master. “come back here, what are you doing ?!”

when the whistles they’d been trained to respond to did not work either, alessandro set the pheasant down with a sigh & ran after his pet. as he grew closer, his run slowed into a jog & eventually stopped altogether. it was then that he saw guido nosing at the hand of someone. with a large exhale, he placed his hands on his hips & chastised. “you beast, i did not raise you to pester women.”

rosalia had been staying back, fully content on amusing herself while others in the portuguese party decided to go participate in activities. rather, her mind was occupied with the thoughts of what she’d do with the passing days. the question of memorializing her dead brother’s legacy was at the top of her list of priorities. 

out of the peripherals of her eye, a dog had bounded into her direction. perhaps it was the fact that she had treats constantly tied to her waist. the beautiful canine most likely could smell it off of her. she was delighted, hardly any fear in the boisterous reaction of the dog who was quick to greet her, tailing wagging as if he were in search for a reward. she was quick to pat him, smiling, nearly laughing at the voice of a man (who she naturally assumed was the owner) lecture guido. “please, he is not pestering,” she spoke to the dog as if he were human, “are you?” affectionally doting upon him with endearing fondness. “he’s lovely, what’s his name?” and then her eyes finally looked upward to discern the man. by his garb she denoted that he was of wealth - thus certainly important, and her mouth was quick to add, “pardon my manners - and what is yours?” her cheeks flushed in embarrassment. she had been often scolded by her tutors for her lack of appropriate address and the habit had been rather hard to unlearn. 

[rosaliadebarcelos]

post count this week (march 15th  - march 21st ) : n. of replies ( 16 ) + n. of tasks ( 0 ) points gained: 16 points (in-character replies)  + 3 bonus points (per five replies) = 19 points points allocation: +7 intelligence, +2 influence, +5 wealth, +5 physical health total: 95/150

[guilbarcelos]

In our memories

[rosaliadebarcelos]

guilbarcelos‌:

Guilherme carefully observed, apprehensive, as Ferdinand de Lorraine introduced himself to them both. Guilherme was not liking the Lorraine Lord’s first impression. He had seen plenty of men like him in his lifetime, clever and social boys with easy smiles. Should this fellow show even a margin of impropriety, Guilherme was ready to- he paused. Suddenly the blond boy’s pretty features dawned on him, and before he could interject the man replied to his daughter.

“I’d be more than happy to help in any way I can!” said the man more eagerly than Guilherme was comfortable with, “how may I be of help? I’m pressed for time at the moment, but will seek you out at your earliest convenience.” 

Guilherme watched him grin as if proud of himself for his affability and Guilherme pursed his lips. He bowed and turned to leave, softly guiding his daughter so that they may leave. 

As they put some distance between them he softly said to her, “I am not sure that this will work out my dear. He may not have recognized our name, the fool!, but I have recognized his as well as his features. He is German.”

rosa was rather amused by his sudden willingness to do something to help. brown eyes turned to watch her father’s reaction, one that she predicted by the features upon his face. she stifled a laugh, knowing that there was undeniable judgement by the pretty man’s visage. 

“then perhaps we may exchange details another time when you have more time, my lord,” she was polite in her offer, smiling pleasantly she heeded her father’s attention as she looked at her papa once more, lightly humored by his reaction. 

“oh papa, we are here in switzerland for peace are we not? we musn’t let such prejudices hold us to prior judgement of character. he seems nice,” she offered with consolation, patting her father on the shoulder, “do not worry, I am not foolish. he also said he was busy ... perhaps other arrangements may be made another time,” she offered with a tilt of her head. 

[guilbarcelos]

In our memories

[rosaliadebarcelos]

guilbarcelos‌:

A light chuckle escaped his lips at the idea of trained ducks. Guilherme nodded with a loving smile as Rosalia named each of his children… except one. He thought about the silly fantasy and decided Carlos would have tried training ducks. Brought them sugar cubes. He sighed to the side, pretending to be watching the scenery as he listened to his daughter’s lovely voice. 

“Yes,” he turned back, “I shall ask her.”

They reached the stables and walked in, observing each horse they passed by noting what country they came from. Finally, Guilherme demanded of no one in particular, “the man dressed in fine clothes who recently frequents the stables, is he here?” A stable boy bowed and appropriate to his lower status communicated that yes he had just come from a horse ride. They were led away towards another part of the stables and soon the servant called out.

“Lord Lorraine! You uh, have visitors,” stammered the stable boy. Guilherme raised an eyebrow at the title, surprise to learn the man he had heard of was a lord. 

Clearly come from the exercise, Lord Lorraine turned to them rosy cheeked and windswept hair, and smiled clearly unsure of how to address the pair. 

“Duke Guilherme of Barcelos,” he said sternly, “and my daughter Lady Rosalia of Barcelos. We hear you have good knowledge of horses.” He stopped himself, deciding to respect his daughters wishes and pull back in order for her to lead their plan.

she smiled, glad that her father was always willing to lend an ear. even if her ramblings were sometimes foolish, she was never scolded for sharing her thoughts nor her mind. perhaps that was what made each of the barcelos children so progressive and different from the rest. 

two steps behind her father, she glanced at all the varied horses. they were all beautiful in their own breed, she had nearly forgotten of the task at hand until her father’s question caught her attention once more. she turned her eyes from a beautiful white mare, catching up with her father in time to hear the declaration of a lord. “a lord ...” she murmured softly. she had not expected to be propositioning an offer to a lord. certainly rich men would have better things to do than to entertain the whims of a girl like her ... 

she followed her father’s lead, gracefully curtsying (as much as she could without tripping on the hem of her skirt) “pleasure,” voice soft as she glanced the lord. he was pretty - like a rabbit of sorts. “we seek for you help,” she offered with a smile of her own. “that is if you have the time.”

[rosaliadebarcelos]

euphemiaofscotland‌:

euphemia smiled, her head tilting to the side, as she often did when thinking of her beloved animals. “they are. they’re trying to breed some of hunting smaller game, but i’m not sure how well they would do.” she shrugged one shoulder as she thought of being at home – in scotland – where she could sit with her dogs and look out at the moors. and on good days, she wasn’t even alone. now, her eyes looked back over at other woman and she ignored the memories that returned to her of home.

rosalia’s next words were surprising and euphemia’s brow lifted as she considered them.“i have not. it is an intriguing idea.” perhaps when she returned back to scotland, she would need to commission at least one – though it was an expense she would normally think frivolous. euphemia had always loved her son, but as an adult he rarely gave her reasons to be maternal. her lips turned down into a frown and she was filled with a rush of empathy toward the other woman. a hand reached out toward rosalia, gripping the other woman’s tightly. “i am so sorry,” she murmured. “especially to be so far from home now. you will be in my prayers.” her voice grew softer. “and if you need anything…please don’t hesitate to ask.”

“oh hunting, I’ve never been quite fond of it. I do not see why we must use one animal and then hurt others in our free time, it’s simply unjust,” she said, shaking her head as wisps of blonde hair fell in her face. she blew away the baby hairs with a sigh. because of this, she had adhered to a strict code of eating only vegetables. she could not stand eating the very flesh of those she called her friends. 

“there are some artists here in switzerland I think they would be intrigued by the proposition itself,” she offered. she did her best to suppress any sign of tears though the visible distress from her face unmistakable. “thank you,” her voice soft. though they didn’t know each other well, she was grateful for the other woman’s empathy. “I am only seeking to honor my brother’s legacy now. it has been a difficult time given the trials and tribulations. are you alright?” she murmured, voice soft. 

[guilbarcelos]

In our memories

[rosaliadebarcelos]

guilbarcelos‌:

“Ah, Sir Waddles,” he repeated, only now remembering the duck’s name. He swallowed a lump in his throat, thinking now of his late wife who indeed would have fuzzed over their daughter’s lack of engagements but not to an extreme as she had just as much confidence in their characters as he did. 

“Indeed? Perhaps we ought to have more ducks in the house,” he said it as if seriously considering it though it was his often misunderstood dry humor. “My dear Vicente could practice his skill of concentration,” he mused, “while Micaela could develop an artistry for animals in movement and put men with a superiority complex’s art to shame.” 

Guilherme began to walk, and lead Rosalia across gardens, intending to pass by the stables. It would be good to have  measure of the space and quality of care available, though he was no such expect as Carlos had been. In truth, he also hoped to glimpse the fellow they had spoken of, and with luck make his own judgements before having his daughter exposed to an unknown variable. 

she laughed, the words sounding funny coming from the stern mouth of his father. it was certainly endearing when a man of guilherme’s imposing stature started uttering the foolish names she had chosen for all her animal friends. 

“I could train them to become our guards, I think they would be mighty fine at it,” she said, sounding mighty pleased with herself. “vicente finds most of them to be a nuisance last I was with him,” she said with a pout. “but it’s alright, he has his own friends in the books he reads,” she shrugged her shoulders. “micaela would do a profound job recording all her observations and spinning them into stories, she told me a wonderful one last night. you should ask her about it papa,” she said, dreamy eyed almost. 

she followed after her father without much thought. 

[guilbarcelos]

In our memories

[rosaliadebarcelos]

guilbarcelos‌:

He nodded his head emphatically as his daughter expressed how little attention she payed to those who were not her animal friends. He knew just how true it was. Even as a small little girl, and as soon as hints of engagements were brought his way, he knew it would take a special kind of man that would not only deserve her, but also attract her. In truth, he did not worry about the kind of men she would show interest in. In fact, he trusted all his children to make smart choices, as wells as choices that could make them happy. Nevertheless, he would be vigilant and careful and protective. 

“Afraid? My Little Ro, it is they should be afraid of stealing you from my side. I dare say, they wouldn’t make it to the door,” he said menacingly before ending his statement with, “in fact, for his own good, your duck friend would trip the fellow lest I take his luxuries away.”

to be born a barcelos was truly luck of the draw considering that many fathers were nothing like her own. her childhood was raised with vast amusement and self fulfillment, a concept that was rare in itself. most other families had their sons and daughters worrying over engagements but the thought of such a thing for herself never occurred. but if it ever did, she trusted her father would make the best choice for her. that or her opinion would be considered. 

she laughed, “you’ll scare them all away papa and then I’ll be a spinster. I don’t think I’d mind but I’m sure mama would’ve scolded you for that,” she smiled, thinking fondly of her mother and how loving she had been. she had left the world far too soon. she smiled, happy to hear that her father had not forgotten sir waddles. “I think he has picked up the habit of chasing anyone that is not family away from me. he’s better than some of the guards.”

[guilbarcelos]

In our memories

[rosaliadebarcelos]

guilbarcelos‌:

With a tender smile he looked upon his daughter. So fragile she was yet so strong. It truly warmed his heart to hear her speak with such conviction, as if Carlos’s dream now fell onto her shoulders and she was more than willing to carry it. Guilherme was glad to see his initial fib about a dozen horses was actually proving to do some good. 

“Just say the word my Little Ro and I shall help with anything I can,” he told her. 

At her suggestion he pursed his lips, suddenly unsure about the idea. After all, a young man of ambiguous origin was most definitely not the kind of man he wished his precious daughter to approach on her own. At the same time however, he understood that she needed this. A project she would dedicate her time and attention to. Even if the young man turned out to be another animal in the garden, BUT NOTHING more than that! 

“Do be careful Little Ro, should this young man prove to be unworthy in the most minuscule of ways we can easily find another. I cannot say I am comfortable with the idea of you offering the proposition, but I know you and I trust your judgement.”

“I shall do this for me and him, I believe in it,” she said with more gusto than she thought she had. her mind was made up. she sought to achieve and sanctify carlos’s memories. 

she could already tell that her father was skeptical of another man being in her presence aside from immediate family and she smiled. “do not worry papa, I believe I shall be alright. I heed little attention to others if they’re not as adorable as my dearest animal friends.” it was true, she spent more of her time besotted with the activities of her cats, dogs, birds and everything else than the idea of a man or marriage. 

“but are you afraid that some bad man shall do something terrible like steal me from your side?” she was teasing, knowing full well that her father was a man with a reasonable temper and good humor. whoever wished to seek her hand would have to go through guilherme themself. 

[rosaliadebarcelos]

ilserafino‌:

@rosaliadebarcelos

Francesco was crossing again the forest on his way to the village, and he walked by the side of a small babbling brook where many a creature stopped for a drink. A familiar figure of his youth appeared in sight — one he had not seen in quite a while, and had missed. They had sent each other letters, but letters were rarely ever enough. He had sent her flowers and a gift, but hitherto they had not had a chance to meet properly once again. “Rosa!” he called out, his joy radiating through the vibrant tones of his voice. “Rosa, it’s so good to see you!” He pulled her in for an embrace, before a wicked grin appeared on his features. “Did you get the gift I sent you? I hope you put it to good use.”

she had been enjoying nature’s beauty, admiring all it’s lush habitation as her mind wandered in realms of fantasy. it wasn’t until a voice called her name that snapped her from her thoughts. turning around, her eyes met the others. a smile was quick to grace her mouth as she too called his name with familiarity, “francesco!” it had felt like forever since they had last seen each other. there had been pleasant letters that had been exchanged but it still didn’t make up for all the lost time that had gone by. he was no longer a child and she, no longer a little girl anymore. she welcomed the close hug, doing the same, cheeks flushing with friendly happiness. 

“you’ve grown so tall, but so I have I suppose,” she said amused, eyes twinkling with childish humor. as he released her from his grasp she found herself nodding immediately. “thank you! I share it with all the new friends I’ve made along the way. the swiss has some beautiful cats, did you know?” she had adopted yet another one. she was lucky that her father never minded. “but tell me, how have you been enjoying switzerland, have you done exciting things?” she found herself rambling, joy spinning her heels. 

[rosaliadebarcelos]

antiquatus‌:

❛  a brighter dawn awaits us all yet,  ❜  he says solemnly yet surely, almost as if he is unflappable in this certain belief of his.  ❛  and your family most of all,  ❜  he adds, a bit gentler, kinder; but it was her question that leads him to a ponderous mood. it is almost an easy question, one that he has answered variations of throughout the years. the answer he has given then is simply the answer he gives now.  ❛  always,  ❜  he says, even as he blanches at the thought of such unworthiness, that he should be so kept by God when he is so sinful.  ❛  He has more than taken care of me, really,  ❜  he says, voice almost wistful.  ❛  God is an eternal and ever-loving presence in my life even at my lowest moments.  ❜  then, a slight reflective pause, before:  ❛  even in moments when i feel as if He is not there,  ❜  he says slowly, and it’s anathema, isn’t it, for a priest to say there are moments where he doesn’t feel the presence of God ?  and yet that is giulio’s truth, and truth is such a potent and powerful thing.  ❛  indeed, in the end, looking back, such moments are the moments where He has taken care of me the most.  ❜  he smiles a wistful smile, looking at the other in all seriousness before concluding:  ❛  that is why i’m so sure that God is not only with you, my lady rosalia, but that He is taking care of you—even when it feels so dark and dreary.  ❜

“thank you for such comforting words father,” rosa mustered a smile, in an attempt to convince herself that she would be fine and also as a means to reassure the man himself that she was alright. 

“I hope to receive as much as much kindness and consideration as you have father, may God look down upon my family with as much love as he does the church,” she said softly, hands clasped together again. she would pray fervently day and night if it meant reaching inner peace. “thank you for all your wisdom father,” she said, her mood brightening if just a bit, the flush of her cheeks warming again, feeling less sickly and pale from the stress and anxiety of the loss of her brother. “at least the weather is becoming more pleasant, I think that shall also do wonders. I hope I have not taken too much of your time.” she quickly bowed her head as if to apologize. but as quickly as she did that, her eyes returned to his, “perhaps I may speak with you again for more prayers. God has chosen a good disciple to spread his name,” she was sweet and genuine with her compliment. perhaps it was naive to be so kind but she did her best to see the good in everyone she met. 

[rosaliadebarcelos]

starfvllen‌:

“The littler lady, I’m afraid,” Ippolita laughed softly, a light-hearted jest at her own lack of stature. Across from her, Rosalia felt like a giant almost. “It is,” she mused, lost in thought for a brief moment about her beloved home. “There was more snow this year than I had seen in a very long time, but I am hopeful that it will be a warm spring and summer to come. And should you ever desire to visit, please do know that the city gates are always open to you and your family.” That much was true- at least for the foreseeable future, Milan had a very small chance of shifting to the opposite alliance. “That is most gracious of you- I do my best to find methods to make my life less difficult- and I do believe he finds it amusing as well.”

“Ah, that is not difficult to understand, Swiss pears are quite delectable,” Ippolita nodded in agreement. “Although I do wish there were more citrus fruits- oranges from Sicily are quite a treat at this time of year.” She smiled. There was a quiet kindness to the other girl that while some may think odd, she found refreshing and calming. “And how of you, Lady Rosalia, have you been enjoying the springtime activities?” 

“that is very kind of you to offer,” rosalia said with a pleasant smile. she wondered if her father would ever permit her to visit italy, or at least milan. but given the recent circumstances of loss surrounding herself, her siblings and her father, she knew that they’d need each other more than ever to stick by each other. 

she nodded her head in agreement. she thought of the fruit in her own homelands. she had sworn that she wouldn’t be homesick but the longer she was away, the more she wished to go back. “I am, it’s a much needed festivity after the events of what had happened previously,” she didn’t wish to speak further on the subject knowing that the tears would surely fall from her face. a day didn’t goby that she didn’t think of her dear brother. her nose had become rather congested from all the tears she had shed. 

[rosaliadebarcelos]

Delivered to Rosa by a small servant child, paid well for her services: A small bouquet of white daises, perfect for making crowns. A small jar of cut-up fruits, with a note 'treats for the little ones. -f'

rosalia thanked the servant child, inhaling the scent of the white daises with a wide smile. she was surprised to see that a small jar of fruits was also included. the letter scrawled on the note was familiar and she looked upon it fondly. her heart warmed to know that after all these years, the italian boy hadn’t forgotten her and her animal friends. 

[rosaliadebarcelos]

Guilherme sends Gardenias (symbolizing purity and sweetness) with a note that reads: "To my lovely little Ro for all the sweetness she brings to my life. I love you my darling."

rosalia read the note aloud with a smile on her cheeks. her papa always had the sweetest things to say to her and hence it only made their relationship stronger. she’d be sure to thank her father in person the next time they were to see each other. her fingers gently arranged each gardenia into a vase, tying it with a ribbon and keeping the note attached to one of the stems. 

[guilbarcelos]

In our memories

[rosaliadebarcelos]

guilbarcelos‌:

Guilherme chuckled, warmed by her laughter and her sweet and earnest desire to keep Carlos with them in such a positive way. He had only joked, but was now glad to see that joke take root in his daughter. Small seeds of hope, after all, could become great anchors in one’s life. He would know. Guided by pure love Guilherme put his hand on her cheek and said, “we will have to higher a couple of helpers my Little Ro, a dozen horses is a lot of work even for your boundless energy my dear.” The servants would have to be temporary of course, at least until they returned to Portugal. And to do right by Carlos, it would be imperative to employ someone with not only knowledge but love for the animals. 

He thought back to the few letters Carlos had sent during his stay in Switzerland. Guilherme had inquired, upon his arrival, on everyone that had come in contact with his son including even those who worked or frequented the stables. 

“There was mention of a young man I suspect was no servant, however accounts of him seemed to imply he was not below giving advice on the animals. Even joining in menial jobs one such as he, given his garments, would be above. I would not insult him with an offer of employ if I am correct, but one can ask for help can we not Little Ro?” He said, though he was not one to do just that. Not unless it served for a purpose of increasing his children’s happiness. 

she chewed on her bottom lip, nodding at her father’s wisdom. while the idea of having twelve horses sounded wonderful, there had to be enough stable hands to maintain each horse’s needs if they were to kept to top notch health. she was assured carlos would be looking down from above with a smile on his face. he’d be pleased to see rosalia attempting to carry on the legacy. “i can not be tired for brother dearest, I will work hard in his memory,” she said softly, wiping away the tears that began to dry on her cheeks. 

“a young man?” she tilted her head wondering who the mysterious man could be. she had not been acquainted with too many of the foreign guests - preferring to spend most of her time in the company of her family members or other ladies. 

“I would love to meet him and if necessary, offer the proposition myself papa,” she offered. if she were to keep carlos’s legacy alive, she was determined to seek out the person who’d help them personally. “would you like me to do that? I know you are busy with portuguese affairs ... keeping myself occupied with tasks shall help me think less of the pain.” 

[rosaliadebarcelos]

starfvllen‌:

“Oh, do not concern yourself overly much with it,” Ippolita smiled softly, feeling Cicero deposit the pear neatly into her hand before pausing and landing on her shoulder. Since the first days she had been training him, Cicero sometimes landed on her hand, but more often than not preferred her shoulder- yet always landing with a gentleness that never brought harm to her clothing.

“Lady Ippolita Sforza of Milan,” Ippolita continued with a soft smile, “Both are lovely creatures,” she continued, gazing over at both the goat and the dove. “It took some effort on my part, but he learns quickly.” A hand gently reaches up to brush the feathers of the falcon, and he lifts off, soaring back up into flight, dipping low over a nearby pear tree. “My stature does not permit me to reach much of the fruit, so this was the answer I came to.” Pausing for a moment, Ippolita turned back to the other girl. “I do hope that you as well as Fluffy and Angel are enjoying the early days of spring here?”

rosa’s eyes admired the bird’s fathers, attempting to memorize his shape and form so that maybe she could draw him later. she had picked up the hobby of collecting information from doodling her observations. she was too embarrassed to share the sketches but she enjoyed looking back at her own documentations. 

“you’re a lady of milan? oh I’ve heard so many wonderful things about your home. I’ve always yearned to visit, is the weather as lovely as people say it is?” she said with genuine interest and excitement. she nodded her head agreeing in her following statements. “I think it’s very clever. he must adore you aplenty to be so dutiful in listening.” she hoped that the other girl wouldn’t see her as odd and perhaps be interested in striking up a longer conversation. “I think fluffy here is rather impatient, he has been demanding for more and more pears! I don’t know if he’ll be able to walk home at this rate,” rosa laughed. “but angel is has adjusted wonderfully.” 

[rosaliadebarcelos]

euphemiaofscotland‌:

though it still seemed strange to euphemia to keep a goat as a pet, the animal was rather clean and soft. and it was certainly most friendly. the scotswoman hoped she’d soon be with one of her lovely dogs and her head tilted to the side as rosalia asked about them.

“terriers, mostly. there is a newer breed from the isle of skye and i simply fell in love with them,” she replied, her lips curving as she thought of the small dogs that loved to jump on her lap for affection when she was home. “but there are some hunting dogs on the estate as well.” she nodded, agreeing with the other woman, for euphemia missed her dogs more than she could say at this moment. she turned back to the goat, however, leaning down to pet it once more. “did you bring them all here?” she inquired, wondering if she would find a plethora of animals housed in one of the barns or outlying buildings. it was a strange thought, but given that this was becoming a rather strange place, euphemia thought it fit quite nicely. “that is very kind of your father.” euphemia’s lips quirked. “are you here with your entire family?”

“terriers? how lovely,” she clasped her hands together, eyes shining with pure adoration. she too had terriers back in portugal and they were fiercely loyal. to think of them now made her heart ache with home sickness. but she had sworn to enjoy the trip here in switzerland and so she shoved away negative thoughts. 

“have you ever commissioned for a painting for them?” she knew the question was odd in itself but she had done this herself. she remembered the looks on the artists face when they realized they would not be painting her but her pets instead. it was her way of commemorating her friends. their lives were much shorter and thus she cherished every second they were with her. “I wish I could’ve but my papa said that some would have a more difficult time with travel than the others. I do miss home dearly because I can’t be with all of them,” she said with a sigh. she took a deep breath at the mention of her family, her mind immediately drifting to her lost brother. “my father is a good man. and ... I was,” she said softly. “my brother has recently passed from the attacks and it has been quite difficult to handle.” she willed herself not to cry. she missed him dearly.