Brindleton mourns: Old-Duchess Claudine dies at 82

(Year 232, Spring) Silence was all that could be heard in Brindleton Bay this morning, after it was announced that the highly beloved Old-Duchess Claudine de Cavalier is no more. The popular lady died this morning after being sick for a short time.

Her full name was Claudine Beatrix (Roxenfox) de Cavalier, born as the oldest of three daughters to the Baron Bendel of Lunderclam in Year 150. Aged 39 she married to Duke Aquess de Cavalier and moved to Cavalier Cove in Brindleton Bay.

Claudine was best known for her deep interest in gardening. She is the one who developed the beautiful Chateau Cavalier garden terraces into what it is today. She also worked on her botanical tables for ten years, which awarded her the «High Order of the National Sprout». She was very interested in community matters, and intended to attend the recent Great Mazaloom Symposium which just took place in San Sequoia, but had to cancel last minute.

When the late Duke Aquess stepped back, an extraordinary move related to his health, the elderly couple moved into the family property Hindquarter Hideaway. They brought their retired Chateau Cook, Emma H. Sherwood.

Old-Duchess Claudine kept gardening, but she also enjoyed creating flower arrangements and playing chess.

Now that both her former Masters are gone, retired Cook Emma (86) has decided to take up on her old career again, serving the family. Youngest son, Lord Leon de Cavalier (37) has moved in at Hindquarter Hideaway. His fiancée, Bonita Roxenfox (36) who is a University graduate this Summer, will move in with him as they plan a wedding this year.

Hindquarter Hideaway is not intended as a family home, but the young couple is expected to reside there for a few years. And old Emma intends to serve them as their Cook, although nobody expects her to be more than a household member, for as long as she  can.

Old-Duchess Claudine will not rest in the chateau crypt, intended for Peers only. She leaves behind 3 children and 3 grandchildren. Duchess Gloria of Meadows is late Claudine's sister.