A Song of Roses

CHAPTER III

I opened my eyes slowly, my mind still foggy from sleep. My senses slowly became alert to my surroundings, and I could feel the softness of the bed under me as I stretched out, feeling pleasantly relaxed and refreshed after a deep and restful sleep. The soft sunlight was shining through the curtains, casting a vibrant and sparkling light that illuminated the room with a subtle warmth. I rang the small bell that lay upon the tabletop next to my bed. And shortly after the servant entered the chamber and said, "Good morning, your grace," the same young girl from yesterday greeted me as she moved the curtains, letting in the bright morning light and freshening the atmosphere. The brunette helped me move the blankets, and I sat up gently, brushing the folds and wrinkles out of my nightgown. I leaned towards the washing stand in the corner of the room, preparing to wash my face, when the servant politely insisted on doing it for me. I tried to protest, but she was quite insistent. After that, she helped me to remove my nightgown. She was gentle and delicate with the task, and I remained quite passive as she quickly removed the gown, folding it neatly and setting it aside. I stood still in front of the full mirror as she helped me with my light green dress, the corset being the first part to be laced. I watched her work swiftly and efficiently, enjoying the gentle, calm sensation that came with watching her movements. After she finished the corset, the dress was pulled onto me, and she began the intricate process of lacing the back. The dress was pulled tight, and the laces were pulled in perfectly even strips.

"Could life be better without corsets? I wondered aloud; the girl seemed confused and perplexed by the question, as no one had ever asked such a thing in her presence. "Y- Your grace... I'm not sure I quite understand the question. The corsets we wear are designed to provide structure and support, and they were designed to flatter the shape of a woman's body. They are an integral part of the fashionable attire we wear." "Well, they suffocate me. That's for sure." I mumbled, my expression becoming frustrated and annoyed. "They may restrict your breathing and are quite uncomfortable; that is true. But they do give the shape of a woman a pleasing and desirable form. Without them, you would likely not look quite as elegant and sophisticated as you do now." "Desirable?" I turned to her, fully facing her, an eyebrow raised in curiosity. She remained silent for a moment, trying to figure out a suitable response without offending me. Then she finally replied. "Yes, desirable, your grace, The shape of a woman's body is considered a sight of beauty. Your waist will appear more streamlined and your shape more striking to the male gaze." I stare back into the mirror, pondering the words 'male gaze', and the unpleasantness that comes with them. I stayed silent as she helped with my necklace and ring. "Is her majesty awake?" I said it in my most polite voice, attempting to hide the irritation and frustration in my tone. "Yes, your grace. Along with Queen Eleanor and your sister, Princess Sophia," the brunette announced politely. I nodded quietly. As she helped me with my shoes, I suddenly paused. "Wait. Have I overslept?" I questioned, my tone slightly panicked. "No, your grace, you have woken up at the right time," she smiled. Her smile was soft and comforting. "We shall go then," I said, taking one final look in the mirror and nodding with satisfaction at my appearance.

As we walked down the stairs of the castle to the dining hall, we passed some statues that were arranged along the side of the corridor. I was surprised to see them, and it made me slightly uncomfortable. I glanced away, not wanting to view their naked form without their permission. Even if it was just a statue.

There was a buzz of conversation, and laughter could be vaguely heard as we got closer to the dining hall. "Good morning," I said, politely greeting everyone as I saw them seated at their places. Mother and Sophia were both present at the table. "Good morning, daughter. I hope you rested well," Father said, acknowledging my presence at the table. He was sipping his morning tea and seemed to be in a good mood. "I did," I replied, accepting the tea from the maid as she poured it for me. I sipped the warm and soothing liquid. "We were discussing where the wedding would be held," my mother said, smiling sweetly at me. "Oh yes, and we have come to the decision. It will be held at Castle Astoria. This Tuesday." Queen Victoria said it cheerfully. "In our castle?" My heart sank at that. "Yes, daughter," my father chimed in. "We thought there could be no more suitable place than Castle Astoria for this joyous occasion." "I agree," King Harold said, nodding his head in agreement. "Castle Astoria is the fitting location for such a grand occasion. It is known all over the world for its beauty and grandeur, and it will lend itself perfectly to the ceremonies and celebrations." "I see..." I mumbled, not quite knowing what else to say. "It has been years since I've been in Rosenia, and I cannot wait to be there." William, a man I dared not consider a prince or even worthy of that title, spoke, and I saw my father smile approvingly at him. Oh yes, I am sure you are looking forward to being there, with all the women of the palace surrounding you, offering their "services."