The tea party was, of course, as she expected. Everyonedressed in white outfits and adorned with flowers on their headssat like a doll. About five seats at the table were occupied. Though Selena arrived just on time, most people were already in place.

AD

Oh, I didnt think this through. She came on time, thinking it was like a grand banquet, but it seemed that she should have arrived earlier at a tea party.

All that was left was a seat at the corner of the table that was barely visible to other people. Even when Selena appeared, no one came forward to give her a warm welcome. She knew that it would be like this. Without a slight embarrassment, she approached Lirel, who sat at the center of the table.

I thank you for inviting me. I thought I didnt have to come on time. Perhaps it was my mistake that I didnt know unless I was childishly told a different time to arrive, so please forgive me. Lirels face hardened all at once, which confirmed Selenas doubts that she childishly wrote a different time for Selena to arrive late.

Next to Lirel sat Rosalyn. Some of the guests were turned toward Rosalyn, as if the party was being hosted by her. She smiled haughtily, her gaze was very natural. Youre all dressed up today, arent you. Lady Lirel was very worried that only your underwear would be white. Some people giggled at the joke.

Still, the Duke worries so much. Im afraid he tries to buy me clothes whenever he gets time. Even if I wear three dresses a day, he buys me so much that I think I wouldnt be able to wear all of them in my entire life.

In times like this, its better to keep silent. Although showing off a mans affection with a gift was something Selena personally hated, it was the best method when it came to others perspectives. The giggles faded away. Selena didnt stop there.

But whats the point of buying it for me? Im only allowed to wear it in front of the Duke. Ah, like how it was today. When he saw me wearing this dress, he wrapped me in his cloak. Its so pretty that he doesnt want people to see me in it. So please understand if I appear a bit stifling.

Oh. yes, the cloak. of course, that we understand..

The laughter at Selena died down at the mention of Kalcions name. Even though he wasnt present. Selena snorted at the obvious discriminatory treatment and headed for the seat. It was a gathering for people who were forced to come in exchange for power, so one pushed Selena as vigorously as Rosalyn.

The tea party decorations themselves were calming, contrasting to the atmosphere of the party at the Rose Palace. A white cloth tent was built between the trees swaying softly in the wind. Bouquets of white flowers were set on the green grass and a transparent vase was placed on the table. The harmonious landscape could be fitted into a portrait to watch. The environment was perfect to relax in, except for the constant attacks Selena faced.

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All they did in this relaxing atmosphere was eat refreshments, gossip about someone, compliment each other, and brag about something. Selena felt sorry for those beautiful flowers. She didnt want to stir the mood toward herself. Anyway, she attended the party today to find out if anyone had any kind of relationship with someone and what the atmosphere was like.

She didnt even think about reaching out to expand her network or to receive more invitations. Since she saw Rosalyn sitting next to Lirel, her goal for today was accomplished. She was barely keeping in her yawn when Lirel and Rosalyn sneakily stood up from their seats. Everyone, I had something to present to Lady Rosalyn, but I have forgotten to bring it with me. Because it is a valuable item, I must deliver it myself.. May we be excused for a moment?

Oh my, of course.

The two main characters of the tea party immediately left the scene. The main topic of conversation throughout the party was Lirel, and her guests chiming in.

So, uh, I dont know if I should ask you this.

Yes?

When the two figures disappeared, the girl sitting next to Selena murmured. She was one of the many who kept their eyes on Rosalyn the whole time, clapping and giggling alongside her. Selena could barely guess what her status was.

That. the dress youre wearing inside the cloak, is it from Lumera?

Selena was confused since she bought too many dresses at once.

Um, where was it.. I dont remember..

The designers name may have been engraved on the sleeve or on a ribbon at the back. May I have a look?

Yes, well. Go ahead.

Since the girl wasnt suspicious, Selena leaned towards her. The girl carefully searched. Its so beautiful to see even through the cloak.. If its Lumera, itll be really expensive, right? The tag wasnt in the sleeves. So the girl lifted the cloak a bit to look closely at the ribbon behind Selenas back. Ashamed, Selena whispered.

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Hmm, I dont know the price. Since the Duke merely had to spend any.

Wow, as the rumor has it, His Excellencys wealth must be tremendous. Its true then. The lady then pointed to Selenas back. But I think the ribbon was tied wrongly. If the fixing pin comes off, youll get pricked.

The ribbon was hidden by the cloak. If it had stayed that way, it would have been a disaster. D*mn you, Juna.. She couldnt believe how evil Juna was.

Thank you for letting me know. Ill have to go to the washroom to fix my dress.. Do you happen to know the direction of the washroom?

The washroom is in the building over there. Once you reach there, youll find a door with pink flowers on it.

If you dont see a maid, just ring the bell thats there on the right side of the doorway.

The guests were appearing to be strangely kind now.

Is it because of Rosalyns absence?

Perhaps these people participated in Rosalyns joke so as for their families to receive aid in business and power.

But I dont need to welcome them right away. People did this not because they were weak-minded, but because of Selenas potential. For they were afraid that Selena, who carried the Dukes favor, would spill anything, or that she would take the place of the Duchess. They wanted to have an insurance policy just in case.

Selena glanced at the building, forcing a smile. The mansion of Count Hice was a little further from the party venue. Therefore, several buildings were placed on a large site and each had its own purpose. Perhaps thats why it was so quiet with a few people coming and going inside the building.

As soon as Selena opened the door, her eyes landed on the stairs. The door with pink flowers was just behind the stairs, but the maid posted was nowhere to be seen. She reached out to ring the bell, as guided by the other guests, but a sharp voice stopped her.

Am I a maid? Am I a dog? Theres a limit to telling me what to do!

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It was Lirels voice. Withdrawing her hand from the bell, Selena turned her head toward the sound.

If she made an appointment, she should be the one to take care of it. Why do I have to come with her? Now look, my dress has been tarnished by grass.

Oh, My Lady. I know. What should I do? I will try to clean it quickly.

How can you clean it? Oh, seriously. Look at my shoes. Its all messed up. Even my feet are hurting after such a long walk.

Her voice boomed all over the hall. It seemed like she was very angry. Selena crept toward Lirels room. Lirels voice was so loud she didnt need to kill the sound of her footsteps.

Shes not even as pretty as I am, and she dares to call me ugly? Our time is almost over with her family. Just wait and see.

It must have been Rosalyn she was swearing at.

Oh? It seemed she was only close to Rosalyn because there was a contract at play.

In the lounge on the second floor, where Selena had sneaked up, Lirel was lying on the sofa, chattering with a maid who was looking down at her feet.

She says she will become the Crown Princess one day, and now she wants to be the Duchess. Then why did she go to see the Crown Prince again? Such a weird person.

At this point, Selena had heard everything she needed. She came in triumphantly with the spirit of capturing the enemy.

Lady Rosalyn would appreciate it very much if she learns it, wouldnt she?

Kyaaaaa!

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