I delicately raised the teacup to my lips, its warmth offering a momentary solace amidst the tension that filled the room. Observing the empress's graceful demeanor, I couldn't help but feel a pang of unease as her smile was directed towards Clivat. Her voice, soothing and refined, resonated with an air of sophistication as she spoke, "Miss Clivat, I've recently learned of the Marquess's generous gift-a magnificent greenhouse adorned with rare and precious flowers."
Clivat, her voice mirroring the tender nature of the conversation, acknowledged the truth behind the empress's words and expressed gratitude to both her father and the empress for their thoughtfulness.
The empress's laughter, like a melodious melody, danced through the air. "Oh, Miss Clivat, how wonderful it is to discover your exquisite passion for tending to flowers." Her eyes then shifted towards me, and her playful tone continued, "Miss Mackil, perhaps it's time for you to explore the captivating realm of flora as well. Love for my son can always find its place in due time."
As the empress subtly insinuated that my interests were solely focused on pursuing the prince, whispers began to reverberate around the room, accompanied by curious glances cast my way.
Yet, I had anticipated the empress's mention of the lavish greenhouse gifted to Clivat. Mentally bracing myself, my gaze remained fixed on the empress, poised to respond. However, our attention was abruptly diverted as the grand entrance revealed the arrival of the crown prince.
Confidence exuded from his every step as the crown prince approached Clivat, his courteous greetings paid to the empress. Their eyes met, and I couldn't deny the depth of their affection, a love that resonated in the air with an unspoken intensity. But then, his attention shifted to me, his voice slicing through the silence with an icy tone, "Mother, why have you invited someone lacking in manners while my dear Clivat graces this gathering?"
The empress, seeking to restore order, urged her son to remain silent. Yet, he persisted, launching a barrage of insults my way. He questioned my lack of elemental power and belittled my worth, insinuating that beyond my esteemed lineage, I held no substance in conversation.
All eyes now turned towards me, the room engulfed in a cacophony of hushed whispers. Expectations hung heavy in the air as they anticipated my familiar response-a whirlwind of accusations against Clivat, blaming her for stealing my betrothed, followed by tears and a hasty retreat. But this time, I opted for a different path. I remained composed, my features masking any flicker of emotion, as I calmly raised my teacup to my lips.
Silence descended upon the room as the prince's words finally subsided. Slowly, deliberately, I lowered my teacup, my gaze fixing upon the crown prince with an unwavering intensity.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~[Helen's thoughts]
Hmm, he does look pretty good with that violet hair of his, but he is still not my type. Helen is a fool to be trampled by this mother-son pair, even when she is the heir to Mackil Dukedome. But I am different. And this tea served is so aromatic and refreshing. Their talk ruined my tea.