Madam Scheller squeezed in among a crowd of filthy, grimy serfs, her eyes wide as she searched the papers for a name.
No—she prayed she would not find that name.
Normally, if someone from a noble family like hers had been killed in action, the Military Committee would send someone to notify them in person.
But this time, too many had died. There were not enough officers to go around, so she could only confirm it herself.
After reading through the noble casualty list, Madam Scheller's shoulders finally relaxed.
David was not there.
She checked again, then looked at her younger son.
He shook his head, indicating that he had not seen his brother's name either. Only then did she pull Lucas into a tight embrace, tears of joy streaming uncontrollably down her cheeks.
As long as David was safe, who cared whether that damned war was won or lost? Let His Majesty the Emperor worry about it.
Madam Scheller walked around several village women sitting on the ground and wailing, then hurried home with her younger son in tow. "We had better leave this afternoon. This place is still too close to Vienna. I need to write to your father and have him go to Pressburg as well."
Once they returned home, Madam Scheller immediately ordered the servants to pack. The entire villa descended into chaos.
Early the next morning, as Madam Scheller was sorting through her book chest, Jocelyn entered with two officers.
One of the Lieutenants gave a slight bow and produced his identification. "Is this Baron Scheller's residence? I am from the Military Committee's recruitment unit. I am looking for Mr. Labo Lucas von Scheller."
Madam Scheller hurried forward and returned the bow. "May I ask what you gentlemen need my son for?
"Oh, you see,