IC Inbox}{Elizabeth Charlotte, Princess of Palatine, Duchess of Orleans

[thepalatine]

Comments

[rulethenight]

I don't know if he would apply himself with any vigor if either of us were to suggest it.

I'm afraid it's going to have to be his idea. Or it will have to seem to be.

[thepalatine]

Of course. He does like to make things complicated for everyone involved.

[rulethenight]

Especially himself.
I do have faith in him... he can be terribly enterprising when he is motivated.

[he was running a drug ring out of Versailles, for God's sake.]

But until then, finances are tighter than I'd like.
And it would make bringing in another contract... difficult.
The city is quite clear that one must be able to support one's entire household.

[thepalatine]

[He did endeavor for the Protestants, as well. So when his heart is in the right place...

There's some more of those dots as Liselotte types and retypes and goes through her thoughts a few times before she manages to compose something.]

I appreciate that the idea of my contract is still being kept on the table no matter what. And if we did come to an agreeable arrangement for all of us, I would be sure to bring in my own income to help the household. You wouldn't be beholden to caring for my fiances any longer at least.

[rulethenight]

I know that you would.
If anything, you have probably been the most useful person in this triad of ours.

I don't want you to suffer, Liselotte.
I know that the Down itself is designed for that, but please know you may call on me.

switch to video

[thepalatine]

[Now there's a very long pause. Did she set her phone down perhaps?

But then there's a prompt for an incoming video call from her]

[rulethenight]

Did you miss my face that much, my darling?

[thepalatine]

I have, yes, if I must be entirely honest. My ladies were very impressed by your gallantry in chaperoning me to meet them back in January and I feel I have been remiss in not seeing more of you.

Could I? See more of you? I know there is no expectation of wifely duties, but I...I do miss you both, being down here.

[rulethenight]

Yes, we can certainly arrange that. I... have also been remiss. Especially given your current circumstances.

[He should be better for her. To her.]

I would like that. And, honestly, the least I can do is make sure you have something decent to eat as often as possible.

[thepalatine]

I don't want to make things complicated or strain your hospitality. But anything is a far sight better than this place, while I work on getting a contract in order.

[rulethenight]

I don't think they can be any less complicated. And you don't deserve to have been brought so low.

[thepalatine]

Well, I will gladly prevail upon your good nature and try not to take it too much for granted while I get myself shored away.

...Thank you, Philippe. I don't know what I would do without the both of you.