As she peered outside, feeling a hint of stuffiness, her gaze caught sight of a pair of wings fluttering amidst the scenery. It seemed as though Silfie had sensed her, she emerged from the tree. Clad in her customary green fairy attire, Silfie met Celena's gaze with her crimson orbs. Celena's face lit up with a smile and eagerly beckoned her fairy friend to join her inside the carriage. To her astonishment, Silfie shrank to the size of a delicate four-inch flower, shimmering with specks of enchanting light, and flew through the open window, settling herself on Celena's shoulder.
"Hi Celena, how have you been?" Silfie asked, curiosity evident in her sparkling crimson eyes clashing with Celena's pink ones.
"Awful, I tell you. They made me come to a tea party, saying that it was punishment. How about you?" Celena slumped down.
"Oh, that sounds terrible. I got grounded for a whole three days. Let me tell you, it wasn't a pleasant experience. I made quite a fuss around the house until my parents finally relented and searched for you. By the way, how is the necklace? Is it still safely concealed?" Silfie inquired, her eyes filled with a hint of accusation.
"It's fine, it's safely hidden behind my pillows. And how much did you thrash around for your parents to let you go?"
"Ah, the great ancient powerful artifact casually tucked by the bed. A good hiding place, by the way," Silfie remarked sarcastically.
''...''
"Excuse me, my Lady, but we have arrived," the coachman announced, opening the carriage door. Panic flashed across Celena's face as she glanced at Silfie, who remained perched nonchalantly on her shoulder.
"It's fine. They can't see me in this form if I don't let them," Silfie reassured Celena, waving off her concern.
Celena stepped out of the carriage, her eyes were greeted by a magnificent three-story mansion adorned in a regal combination of dark blue and white. The imposing structure stood proudly. A grand banner fluttered in the gentle breeze, proudly displaying the emblem of the prestigious household.
The entrance of the mansion was lined with lush forest green bushes, meticulously manicured and arranged in perfect symmetry.
Taking a deep breath, Celena couldn't help but feel a mixture of anticipation and nervousness. The grandeur of the mansion added to the weight of her emotions. She tried to steady herself, focusing on the rhythmic sound of her breathing as she followed the winding path leading toward the front doors.
As she made her way forward, her senses were teased by the subtle fragrance of blooming flowers that wafted through the air, carried by a gentle breeze. The delicate scent mingled with the excitement in the atmosphere, creating an intoxicating blend that heightened her anticipation.
A maid, dressed in a crisp uniform, walked alongside Celena, guiding her through the entrance and into the vicinity of the party. With each step, the soft murmur of conversations and the faint strains of music grew louder, enveloping her in the ambiance of the event. The elegant melodies floated through the air, adding a touch of sophistication and charm to the evening.
Amidst the lively chatter, Celena's attention was drawn to a young woman in her twenties, adorned in an elegant green gown that complemented her sparkling emerald eyes. In hushed tones, she whispered to another woman, her voice filled with intrigue.
"Have you heard the rumors?" she asked, her words carrying a sense of excitement.
"About the Froister household, you mean?" the second woman replied, her fan delicately concealing the heavy makeup adorning her face.
"Specifically about the only daughter!" the lady in the green gown exclaimed, her mischievous smile captivating the attention of those nearby.
Intrigued by the prospect of gossip, a crowd quickly gathered around, their curiosity piqued by the mysterious lady and her intriguing claims. Standing at the center, she radiated a certain magnetism, her braided brown hair cascading over her shoulder, and her pale green eyes filled with a mischievous sparkle. all eyes were fixed upon her.
she exclaimed dramatically, her voice carrying a hint of scandalous delight."I have heard she has been mentally unstable since she was a baby, and her family has concealed this from the rest of the aristocracy."
The words hung in the air, causing gasps and whispers to ripple through the crowd. The shocking revelation stirred a mix of curiosity and judgment among the guests.
"And do you know what? She had the audacity to run away just because she didn't want to wear a corset! I can't even fathom the horror of having her erratic and unsophisticated behavior tarnish this elegant gathering," she continued, her voice dripping with disdain. she pressed her delicate shoulders together, clutching her fan close to her chest.
The crowd reacted with another round of gasps, their eyes widening in disbelief. Celena, however, couldn't help but roll her eyes at the exaggerated account, exchanging a knowing glance with Silfie, who hovered beside her, visibly unimpressed by the theatrics.
"They really ought to educate her properly," a voice chimed in from the crowd, accompanied by murmurs of agreement.
"But my lady, what good would education do if she lacks a functioning brain inside that thick skull of hers?" another voice retorted, eliciting laughter from the surrounding guests. The sound of amusement temporarily filled the air, only to be interrupted by the distinct clinking of glass from the host, signaling the beginning of the formal proceedings.
sound resonating through the room, the guests gradually started to make their way toward their assigned seats. The rectangular table, adorned with silk white tablecloths, was graced by seven exquisite metal chairs, each meticulously positioned. Only one seat remained unoccupied, undoubtedly reserved for Celena on the right side of the host.
As the guests settled into their designated places, the table transformed into a display of culinary delights. Delectable pastries adorned its surface, emanating a tantalizing aroma that filled the air, enticing the senses. Lavish chilled beverages glistened invitingly, waiting to be savored.
"Are you okay with this? They're insulting you! This is getting frustrating if you ask me," Silfie expressed her concern, in her tiny, worried voice. Celena couldn't help but smile at her loyal friend's protective nature. She released her tight grip on her palm, which she had unknowingly clenched, and took a slow, calming breath.
"If I clash with her right now, I'd only prove her right," Celena responded with determination, her pink eyes gleaming with resilience. Her lips curled into a mischievous grin, a spark of mischief dancing in her gaze.
"The only way for me to fight back is to prove her wrong," Celena added, her eyes locking with Silfie's, a silent understanding passing between them.
Celena embarked on her path toward her seat, casting a deliberate sidelong glance at the girl in green who was seated right beside her. Coming to a graceful halt, she addressed the entire gathering, her voice carrying a note of warmth and genuine enthusiasm.
"Good morning, lovely ladies. Isn't the weather delightful today? The sun's gentle kiss and the cool breeze make it a perfect day, don't you think?" Celena's voice resonated with cheerfulness, aiming to uplift the atmosphere. "I want to express my sincere gratitude for the gracious invitation to this charming tea party. I was pleasantly surprised and truly delighted to be here among all of you," she continued, dipping her head in a slight bow towards the host while placing her hand over her heart.
'I don't know what the hell I am saying!' Celena sweat-dropped, her hands trembling slightly from a mixture of nerves and excitement. The encounter felt stifling, yet she couldn't help but be intrigued experience.
Celena proceeded to pass by the braided maiden gracefully, her every movement radiating poise and confidence. Silfie, ever the mischievous fairy, floated where she last stood, leaving the girl in green gaping at the unexpected turn of events.
Her sudden appearance hushed the crowd, and a murmur of whispers swept through the room, discussing her unexpected outburst. Ignoring the curious gazes and the soft gossip, Celena focused her attention on the lady in the elegant blue dress seated in front, her simple attire complementing her graceful demeanor. Her slim posture remained upright, and her delicate hands were folded on her lap. Celena's pink eyes met the lady's curious pale orange gaze, a silent exchange of acknowledgment passing between them.
"Of course, Lady Celena. I am delighted that you graced us with your presence at this modest gathering," the hostess spoke.
Celena shook her head, "By no means this humble my lady, such fancy yet"... her pink eyes frantically looked around pausing in pursuit of something to describe "These chairs are fantastic to sit upon! the design is so exquisite the details that went into this chair are beyond any craft that I encountered, don't also forget the pastries made by skilled chefs."
'A chair? really Celena that's all you have to say?'
The hostess smiled "Thank you, Lady Celena,"
Celena let out a faint sigh of relief, grateful that the conversation was flowing smoothly. She directed her focus back to the other attendees, listening to their discussions about upcoming festivities in the empire. The room buzzed with excitement as they speculated about the appearance of the Royal family and the princes. Faint rumors circulated about the previous royal adviser being adopted by one of the dukes. However, Celena found herself disinterested in these topics, her mind preoccupied with her thoughts and the challenges she would face in this unfamiliar social setting.
Feeling parched, Celena's gaze fell upon a teapot with the enticing aroma of chamomile tea. Before she could reach for it, the girl in the green gown seated beside her swiftly snatched it, wearing a condescending expression as she turned to Celena.
"My lady, allow me to assist you in this trivial matter. As a respected figure such as yourself, it would be beneath you to exert yourself by pouring tea," she remarked with a hint of mockery, prompting light chuckles from those around them.
The underlying message behind her words was clear: 'You are not rational enough to pour tea without someone's assistance.'
Unfazed by the act, Celena maintained her serene smile, The atmosphere seemed to grow colder, and the chuckles quickly subsided, sensing the energy shift.
"Lady Elaina, I appreciate your concern. As you have mentioned, I am indeed a figure of higher status, born into a prestigious family. While there are occasions that warrant someone pouring tea for me, I assure you, I am a well-educated individual who has mastered the art of the tea ceremony," Celena replied, her tone laced with subtle sarcasm.
'That is a fucking lie,' Celena mused inwardly, hoping that those around her would believe her act.
Silfie couldn't help but giggle from her hiding spot, amused by the situation unfolding before them.
With her chin held high and her gaze fixed on Elaina, Celena exuded an air of confidence. Irritation flickered across Elaina's face as she reluctantly placed the teapot down for Celena to pour the tea herself. Celena gracefully—or rather, intentionally clumsily—poured the tea into her cup,
The small talk continued, but it wasn't long before Celena 'accidentally' spilled the cooled tea on Elaina, causing her to scream in dismay and complain about its expense. However, Celena knew that Elaina's claims were false, her heightened senses could discern between valuable and cheap items. Nonetheless, Celena 'sincerely apologized,' appearing genuinely concerned as she placed her hand on the fabric and 'accidentally' ripped a part of it. Celena casually remarked that the quality of the fabric wasn't up to par, then proceeded to ignore Elaina for the remainder of the event, nonchalantly carrying on with the festivities.
As the event neared its end, the ladies gathered by the walking path near the gates, waving their goodbyes to the host. Celena, accompanied by Silfie, made her way to find the designated carriage where her brother awaited. As they walked, Silfie continued to comment on how cool Celena was, but their conversation abruptly halted when they heard a loud slap nearby. Intrigued by the sound, Celena's curiosity won the internal battle, and she veered towards the direction it came from—an obscured tree hidden by small bushes.
The sight before them ignited a fire within Celena, her anger rising like a volcano. In front of her stood the girl in the blue dress, whom she had known all along to be a commoner. The poor girl looked frightened and defenseless, at the mercy of Elaina's wrath. Her violet hair was tangled in Elaina's slick fingers.
"That bitch! Who does she think she is?" Elaina's voice dripped with malice as she relentlessly delivered one slap after another.
"Where does she get that cockiness from? How dare she humiliate me like that!" Elaina's anger grew, and she continued to assault the defenseless girl.
Celena's protective instincts surged forth. With fierce determination, she approached the scene, her grip tightening on a strand of Elaina's braided hair. The look on Celena's face sent shivers down Elaina's spine as she realized she had been caught.
"How dare you!" Celena's voice carried a mixture of fury and disbelief. "Who do you think you are to treat someone like this?" Startled by her sudden appearance, Elaina released her hold on the girl's hair.
In one swift motion, Celena forcefully pulled Elaina's hair, causing her to lose her balance and fall to the ground. Fear filled Elaina's eyes as she quickly picked herself up and fled from the scene, leaving Celena and Silfie standing there, seething with anger at the injustice they had witnessed. Celena looked at the bruised girl, she reached down a hand but was astonished when the said girl slapped her hand away.
"I didn't need your help, Don't expect me to thank you," Celena heard the girl's words echo in her mind, a mix of confusion and disappointment settling within her.
Silfie, perceptive as always, floated closer to Celena "She must have her reasons,"
Celena sighed, "I suppose so," she replied, feeling a sense of resignation.
Silfie nodded in understanding. "Sometimes, people are hesitant to accept help, especially from someone they perceive as different. It can be difficult for them to trust."
"You did what you believed was right, Celena. Even if she didn't express gratitude, your actions may have made a difference in her life."
As Celena stepped towards the carriage, a sinking feeling settled in her heart, Her eyes locked onto her brother's face, and a wave of concern washed over her as she noticed the fury etched on his features. Standing beside him, like a thorn in her side, was Elaina, It was a sight that made her heart ache, knowing that a storm was brewing within their midst.
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