Lord Theodore's Favorite Ritual
Chapter 223: The Last Picnic.

Chapter 223: The Last Picnic.

Last day of the month.

Theodore Mansion.

Critic Arley, Critic-Ishire.

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Theodore Mansion was busy today. Beyond the perfectly manicured lawns lay a picturesque lagoon, its water shimmering under the pale winter sun. It was here, next to the lagoon, that the three maids of the mansion were busy setting up for an afternoon of leisure for Lord and Lady Theodore. On Theodore’s instructions days ago that he’d planned with the maids.

Mathilda, the newest maid, moved with an air of cautious enthusiasm, eager to prove herself. She carried a rolled-up mat, its rich, crimson fabric embroidered with golden threads, creating intricate patterns that seemed to dance in the light. As she approached the designated spot, she paused to admire the serene beauty of the lagoon, the water reflecting the azure sky and bare branches of winter trees.

"Over here, Mathilda," called Joyous, the senior maid, her voice warm and guiding. Joyous, true to her name, always had a smile on her face and a lightness in her step but that didn’t mean she was a joyful person, she appeared to have more pain in her heart and the name didn’t do what she’d wished it would. She was arranging a low wooden table, ensuring it was level on the soft grass. The table would soon hold an array of delicacies prepared with the butler, a feast fit for their esteemed employers.

Dorothy, the third maid, with her brown hair neatly tied back and her eyes sparkling with mischief, joined Mathilda in spreading out the mat. "Careful not to crease it, Mathilda. Lady Theodore is very particular about such details," she said with a wink, her tone teasing yet kind.

The three worked in harmony, each movement practiced and precise. Joyous unfurled a plaid blanket over the mat, its thick fabric offering comfort against the chill of the approaching winter. Dorothy set out plush cushions, their deep hues adding a touch of elegance and warmth.

As they worked, their conversation drifted to lighter topics. "Did you hear about the city fair next week?" Mathilda asked, her eyes bright with anticipation.

"I did," replied Joyous, placing a silver tray laden with scones, clotted cream, and strawberry jam on the table. "I hear there will be performers from all over the kingdom."

Dorothy, adjusting the position of a porcelain teapot with delicate floral designs, chimed in, "And lots of stalls selling trinkets and sweets. I have never been to a city fair before."

Joyous smiled at the colleague. "You shall love it, Dorothy. It’s a wonderful escape from our daily chores. Perhaps we will see some handsome gentlemen there too."

Mathilda laughed, setting out a plate of finger sandwiches, cucumber, smoked salmon, and egg salad, each cut into perfect triangles. "Always on the lookout, are you, Joyous?"

"One must keep their options open," Joyous retorted with a playful shrug, her eyes twinkling.

The final touches included a selection of pastries: delicate éclairs filled with rich vanilla cream, buttery shortbread, and tart lemon curd tarts. The butler had ensured that every treat was prepared to perfection, a testament to the high standards upheld at Theodore Mansion.

And Theodore made sure there was rum, just incase his Lydia wanted it.

With everything in place, the maids stepped back to admire their handiwork. The scene was set: a cozy, inviting spot by the lagoon where Lord and Lady Theodore could spend a leisurely afternoon reading, sketching, and enjoying the delectable spread prepared for them.

The gentle sounds of the estate was a distant bird call, the soft rustle of leaves in the breeze provided a tranquil backdrop. The maids exchanged satisfied glances, knowing they had done well.

As they prepared to return to the mansion, Joyous put a comforting hand on Mathilda’s shoulder. "You have done a splendid job today, Mathilda. Welcome to Theodore Mansion."

Mathilda beamed, feeling a sense of belonging and pride. The three maids walked back towards the mansion, their laughter and conversation lingering in the crisp winter air, a testament to the camaraderie and shared joys of their service.

"Lady Theodore, the lord asks for your presence by the lagoon"

Lydia, who’d thought today was a bookish day in the library, nodded with a smile, dropped her book and left for the lagoon.

Lydia, an epitome of grace and beauty, approached the colorful lagoon setup with an air of serene elegance. Her flowing winter gown, made of rich burgundy velvet, swept the ground softly as she walked. In her arms, she cradled her fluffy white cat, Red, whose fur glistened in the gentle afternoon sunlight. The delicate balance of the scene was a view to Lydia’s refined taste, each element meticulously chosen to create an atmosphere of tranquility and charm.

As Lydia reached the mat, she gently placed Red on a plush cushion, the cat immediately curling up into a comfortable ball, purring softly. Lydia’s eyes, a deep shade of blue, sparkled with appreciation as she took in the setup. The lagoon’s surface mirrored the clear sky, creating an enchanting backdrop for the afternoon.

Moments later, Theodore appeared, his eyes instantly drawn to his wife. A tall, distinguished man with an air of quiet confidence, the maids swooned. His gaze softened as he watched Lydia, mesmerized by her beauty and the effortless grace with which she moved. He approached her silently, his heart swelling with love and admiration.

"Lydia," he said softly, reaching out to take her hand. She turned to him, a radiant smile lighting up her face.

"Theodore," she replied, her voice a melodic whisper. They shared a brief, tender moment, their fingers entwined as they stood by the lagoon, the world around them fading into the background.

With a gentle nudge from Theodore, they settled down on the mat, surrounded by an array of the kingdom’s afternoon delicacies. Lydia poured tea from the porcelain teapot, the fragrant steam curling into the crisp air. They began their feast with scones, slathered with clotted cream and strawberry jam, the sweetness of the preserves perfectly balancing the rich, buttery scones.

The picturesque lagoon near Theodore Mansion was just as Theodore expected. They prepared to enjoy a peaceful afternoon picnic. While Conan and Hound, ever watchful, are nearby despite being in the mansion.

As Theodore couldn’t help noticing Conan and Hound standing vigil so he called, "Conan, Hound, come here a moment."

Conan approached with a respectful bow "Yes, lord Theodore?"

Hound nodding, his eyes scanned the surroundings "Lord Theodore, what do you require?"

Theodore smiled with fake warmth and met their eyes, "I appreciate your vigilance, truly. However, Lydia and I wish to spend this afternoon in peace, without the feeling of being watched." he said through gritted teeth.

"But my lord, after the recent attack during the hunt, it’s imperative we remain close. Your safety is our utmost priority." Conan replied with a slight frown.

Hound nodded in agreement to what Conan had said, "Indeed, my lord. We cannot risk another incident. The enemy’s intentions are still unclear."

Lydia shook her head as she joined the conversation, her voice gentle, "We understand your concern, but you must also consider your own well-being. You both need to rest and recover, just as we do."

Theodore stood up, placed a reassuring hand on Sir Conan’s shoulder before whsipering, "You have served me faithfully, Conan, and you too, Hound." he glanced at Hound "But today, I wish for a few hours of tranquility with my wife. We are within the safe confines of the mansion grounds. There is no immediate danger here." he explained.

Conan hesitated, glancing at Hound "My lord, it is not our place to leave you unguarded." The knight has been around Theodore since they returned from the forest and he gained his strength, he even brought in two guards to follow Lydia whenever she went out even while Hound followed her around.

Hound nodded and said firmly, "We have a duty, my lord. We cannot shirk it, even for a moment."

Theodore sighed, smiling through gritted teeth, "I understand your dedication, truly. But consider this an order from your lord. Go and rest. Tend to your own wounds and spirits. The new mansion guards will keep a vigilant watch. Should any danger approach, we will be well alerted." He wanted to spend time with his wife and their presence was irking.

Conan after a moment of silence, bowed his head "As you wish, lord Theodore. But please, call for us at the slightest hint of trouble."

Hound reluctantly looked at the new guards, "We will be nearby, my lord. Rest assured, we will not be far."

Theodore was grateful but he resisted the urge to roll his eyes, "Thank you, both of you. Now, go. Take some time for yourselves. You have earned it."

Lydia smiled warmly at the two as she said, "Thank you, Conan, Hound. We shall see you later."

"Very well, my lord, my lady. Enjoy your afternoon." Conan replied, bowing once more.

Hound nodded, a hint of a smile on his stern face "We will be back before the evening."

Theodore watched them leave as he waved exaggeratedly, "Take care, both of you." he said.

They left reluctantly, but obediently, their love and loyalty to the lord was something even he couldn’t deny.

Theodore then turned to Lydia with a smile on his lips, "Finally, some peace and quiet. Shall we?"

"Yes, my dear. Let’s enjoy this beautiful day together, thank you for setting this up." She said with a soft laugh.

Lydia’s laughter rang out as she picked up a funny book she had brought along. "I thought we could enjoy a bit of humor today," she said, her eyes twinkling with mischief. Theodore chuckled, his deep voice resonating warmly.

They took turns reading aloud from the book, their laughter blending with the sounds of nature. Each passage brought more joy, the absurdity of the humor lifting their spirits. Red occasionally meowed, as if joining in their amusement until Ebony joined him.

They exchanged so many small kisses that Conan had to stop rolling his eyes at some point.

After a while, Lydia set the book aside and suggested they try sketching each other. Theodore, always up for a challenge, agreed readily. They both fetched their sketch pads and charcoal pencils, settling into comfortable positions across from each other.

Lydia started her sketch with great enthusiasm, her eyes narrowing in concentration as she tried to capture Theodore’s strong features. Meanwhile, Theodore worked diligently, his brow furrowed as he attempted to draw Lydia’s delicate beauty. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of playful competition, each determined to create a masterpiece.

"Are you ready?" Lydia asked him eagerly.

"Yes," he confirmed.

"Okay, let us exchange it" they closed their eyes and swapped paper, they believed they had put all of their heart into sketching.

However, as they exchanged sketches, both burst into laughter. Lydia’s sketch of Theodore looked more like a caricature, with exaggerated features and a comically stern expression. Theodore’s drawing of Lydia, on the other hand, was a series of uneven lines and awkward proportions, completely failing to capture her elegance.

"Oh, Theodore," Lydia exclaimed between giggles, "I fear we will not be renowned artists anytime soon."

Theodore chuckled, shaking his head. "Perhaps not, but I will cherish this masterpiece nonetheless," he said, carefully tucking the sketch into his coat pocket.

They continued to enjoy the afternoon, savoring the finger sandwiches and pastries laid out before them. The cucumber sandwiches were refreshingly crisp, the smoked salmon melted in their mouths, and the egg salad was perfectly seasoned. The éclairs were filled with rich vanilla cream, the shortbread was buttery and crumbly, and the lemon curd tarts provided a delightful tartness that balanced the sweetness of the other treats.

As the sun rose to the middle of the sky, casting a golden warm glow over the lagoon, Lydia and Theodore rose from their comfortable spot. Lydia took Theodore’s arm, and they began to stroll through the gardens, The cats appeared suddenly, following closely behind them. The chill of the approaching winter was evident in the air, but the warmth of their companionship kept them cozy.

The gardens were a wonderland of late autumn beauty. The trees, though bare, had a stark elegance against the almost twilight sky. The last of the chrysanthemums and asters added splashes of color to the landscape, their petals catching the dying light.

They spoke in hushed tones about their plans for the winter, reminiscing about past seasons spent together in the warmth of the mansion. Lydia’s voice was filled with excitement as she mentioned the upcoming city fair, envisioning the vibrant stalls and lively performances.

"I hope to attend this fair with you" she let out.

Theodore paused in his steps, pressed a kiss to her lips and whispered, "You will never have to attend it alone" he promised and that made her heart clench for a reason foreign to her.