Trapped in Satin

𝐈𝐈𝐈: Return of a Tyrant

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Finally, dear readers, the evening came to an end, but the most culminating part of the event had yet to begin. Murmurs filled the room as the debutantes and nobles alike, sought to discern the potential distinguished ladies that would be honoured with this season's most coveted title.

"My bets are on Lady Avelyn."

"Good heavens, Eloise, what refined lady engages in gambling of the sort!"

"But why, for she speaks the truth. Lady Avelyn's is the finest amongst this season's debutantes."

"After all, she enjoys the closest connections to the Crown Prince. You do know what the ton is whispering."

"Do not say..."

"This season's selection is the most crucial yet, for the Queen is not merely designating her diamond... but the future Crown Princess herself!"

The ladies squealed in excitement.

"Ladies, make haste!" An imposing voice hushed them as the boomed from the corner of the room.

"Vivienne, how can you imply such things?" One of the ladies queried in a hushed tone, hurriedly fanned herself.

"It's true, it's true — my maiden heard directly from the royal chambers."

"But what of Lady Anelise Agriche?"

"The Viscount's daughter? What of her?"

"It is said that she and the young Prince shared a childhood. Naturally, she would hold the Queen's favour."

"Now that you mention it, Lady Anelise did make a fine debut indeed. She is not quite the eye-sore that gossip so eagerly speculated." One of the debutantes remarked, casting an appreciative gaze toward the subject of discussion.

The gossip within the halls were interrupted by the resonant herald of trumpets, announcing the imminent arrival of Queen Elodia for the final time that evening. She gracefully ascended the ornate throne, as the collective hush that had befallen the assembly intensified.

"Esteemed nobility of Veridia, in light of the exceptional grace displayed tonight by the ladies of our kingdom's distinguished houses, selecting this season's diamond is no short of a challenging decision." She began as her discerning gaze steeped across the hall.

Imbued with regal poise, her speech created an ardour that could be felt by every debutante in the grande ballroom as they exchanged nervous glances.

"My choice is not one of luck. Rather, it reflects the sheer elegance and refinement of a fine lady whose allure has transcended the confines of this grand hall."

"A delicate gem that has encapsulated the quintessence of true nobility and grace - her presence tonight casted a luminous glow that outshined even the most radiant diamond."

In breathless anticipation, the young ladies awaited, each one yearning to have such an indelible mark as to garner the Queen's favor.

"Such coveted honour is bestowed upon none other... than the illustrious Lady Avelyn Waldergrave. May this title as the season's Diamond, be a testament to the brilliance that resides within her noble spirit."

The Queen's words hung in the air.

Lady Avelyn Waldergrave, accustomed to the adulation of high society, graciously acknowledged the honour with a poised nod and a timid smile. Her composure reflected her seasoned familiarity with the triumph, for it was an honour bestowed upon her mother, and her mother before that.