How to court a storm | 𝘈𝘯 𝘐𝘴𝘦𝘬𝘢𝘪 𝘕𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭

(45)

The day of my debut has arrived, and I find myself in a private room at the Claude estate. Despite all the opulence I've witnessed in my own household and even at the Alfonse estate, the grandeur of this place is something to behold. The Claude family's reputation for wealth and extravagance is well-deserved, and it's on full display within the walls of this magnificent estate.

The room in which I prepare is a testament to luxury, with its intricate tapestries, gilded furnishings, and sparkling chandeliers that cast a warm, golden glow. The mirror before me reflects an image of a carefully crafted debutante, adorned in an elegant gown of deep sapphire blue. The fabric shimmers with each movement, and the intricate embroidery tells a story of craftsmanship and artistry.

As I sit in front of the mirror, a sense of anticipation and trepidation washes over me. The debut is a significant event in the life of any young lady of noble birth, a rite of passage into society's highest echelons. It's a chance to make a mark, to form alliances, and to navigate the intricate web of politics that underlies nobility.

Whilst I don't care about them the same way others would, even I know how important this day will be in my plans. They still serve a purpose, and I aim to accomplish this as well as I plan to do everything else.

From what Regina has told me, she's invited all the eligible ladies from any noble family that she could reach. I have no doubt that some will be unable to come due to a variety of circumstances, among them being they might find it odd that a daughter is debuting to other daughters instead of an official noble gathering.

Some of them will be stuck with tradition. I can't force them to attend and I see no reason to. Everything beyond requesting their presence is out of my hands. And today's gathering can show me who is willing to let go of slightly meaningless tradition and perhaps try something new.

The room is filled with the hushed voices of attendants and the rustle of silk as they make final adjustments to my attire. They're meticulous in their movements and preparation, no doubt hoping to impress Regina. They move with practiced precision, ensuring every detail is perfect, every strand of hair in place. It's a difficult process, one that reflects the gravity of the occasion.

A knock on the door catches my attention.

The doors open to Regina and Dahlia.

More than a few weeks have passed since my mother's death.

More than a few weeks since they came to stay at my manor. And more than a few weeks since Regina insisted that I live with her, until the party was over.

Even after I had told her and Dahlia everything.

Almost everything. I didn't feel ready to tell them I'm not from this world.

As I watch my reflection of my sapphire blue gown cascading around me like a waterfall of silk and lace, Regina and Dahlia make their entrance, and the room seems to light up with their presence. Regina, resplendent in a shimmering pink gown that shimmers like rose petals kissed by the sun, commands attention effortlessly. Her elegance and poise are evidence to her years of experience in navigating the complexities of high society despite not being a debuted lady herself.

Dahlia, stands beside Regina, radiating a magnetic allure in a corseted red dress that accentuates her every curve. Her beauty, combined with her innate charm and wit, has made the attendants gaze at her with flushed cheeks and hushed smiles.

The room seems to come alive in their presence, and I can't help but admire the transformation that takes place when they enter.

Regina approaches me with a warm smile, her eyes reflecting the pride she feels for my appearance I suppose. She has every reason to feel as she does. I look regal, perfect. "My lady,'" she says, her voice a soothing melody, "You look absolutely radiant."