In the Faust Mansion
Gelda received a call. She picked it up and said,
"Go for Gelda."
A familiar voice responded, "It's me—B.S. Sujibur. And… Mrs. Lilith is returning."
Gelda's eyes widened. "What? Really? And why are you reporting this?"
Sujibur said grimly, "Domr Faust is no more. Prepare for the funeral. In a few days, Lady Lilith will become the new Captain of Black Rose."
Gelda shouted, "What the goddamn hell are you saying?!"
Sujibur replied, "Please... try your best to explain it to the young lord. I know he'll be devastated."
Gelda demanded, "Explain what happened! How the hell did it come to this?! And does Lilith know?! Why are you contacting me?"
Sujibur sighed. "After being MIA, the Sacred Freedom forces somehow captured him. They crucified him… to crush our morale. When Lady Lilith saw what they'd done, she completely lost control. She killed every last one of them without mercy. We tried to help, but... Captain Domr didn't make it. After witnessing her father's death, Lady Lilith is in a state of shock right now. That's why I'm asking you to get ready."
Gelda whispered, "And what about Jewel?"
"He's still fine. We're in regular communication with his unit. The northern border is… safe. Maybe a bit too safe."
Gelda nodded. "Got it."
She walked to Liebe's room, gently knocked on the door, and said,
"Young Lord? May I come in?"
Hearing nothing, she entered quietly.
"Young Lord, wake up."
Liebe stirred and blinked. "Gelda? Why are you being so formal today?"
Gelda hesitated, then said, "I have something to tell you."
Liebe sat up. "What is it?"
She spoke gently. "The Lord Captain of Black Rose… Domr… is no more. Lady Lilith is returning to the mansion for the funeral."
Liebe stared at her. "What? You're joking, right?"
"I'm sorry, Young Lord. Captain Domr is gone. And soon, your mother will be the new Captain of Black Rose. That makes you the one closest to that rank… after her."
Liebe whispered, trembling, "But… I don't want that. I don't want to be the Captain… I want to eat donuts with Grandpa again."
Gelda knelt beside him. "I understand… and I'm so sorry. But there's nothing to be done. Lady Lilith is coming home. We have to be ready."