Blooming from the Ashes

Ch 15: The Newcomers' Welcome

We entered the dining room where the staff had gathered, a hum of conversation filling the air. The room was elegantly decorated, yet warm and inviting. Long tables were laden with a variety of dishes, and the smell of freshly baked bread mingled with the scent of roasted meats and fresh vegetables.

Ginny gestured for us to take our seats. "Please, make yourselves comfortable. Lunch is about to be served."

As we settled in, I noticed Cyan standing at the far end of the room, his expression cool and distant. He acknowledged Elma and Aiden with a polite nod but barely glanced in my direction. I felt a twinge of unease but pushed it aside.

"Everyone, these are the new students who will be staying with us," Ginny announced to the room. "Elma, Aiden, and Liliana. Please make them feel welcome."

A middle-aged woman with a kind face and sharp eyes stepped forward. "I'm Mildred, the head maid. If you need anything during your stay, please don't hesitate to ask." I remembered Mildred well-she had always been efficient and kind-hearted, though she hadn't stood up for me when I needed her most.

Beside her stood a tall, stern-looking man with a neatly trimmed beard. "I'm Harold, the butler. I manage the household staff and ensure everything runs smoothly here."

Harold had always been professional and distant, yet fair. It felt strange to be introduced to him again, pretending I didn't know him.

Next to Harold was a younger woman, probably in her mid-twenties, with a cheerful smile she introduced herself.

"I'm Beth, one of the maids here. I'll be helping you get settled."

Beth had been a comforting presence during my previous stay. Seeing her again brought back memories, both good and bad.

Introductions continued around the table, with various staff members offering their names and roles. The atmosphere was friendly and familiar, but I couldn't shake the feeling of Cyan's cold gaze lingering on me.

In the past, when I was framed for poisoning Terra, none of them had believed me. Their loyalty to Terra and the influence of the Marchioness had silenced any support they might have given me.

As the meal began, the staff engaged us in light conversation, asking about our journey and our excitement for the academy. Elma and Aiden quickly warmed up to everyone, their natural charm and enthusiasm shining through. I remained polite but reserved, still feeling the weight of the past and Cyan's skepticism.

"So, Liliana," Cyan said suddenly, his tone neutral but his eyes sharp, "You possess quite an unusual talent. Can you tell us more about it?"

I swallowed a bite of my meal and looked up, meeting his gaze steadily. He had asked the same question when I had first entered the Hawthorne estate years ago, however I was too timid to answer him. In the end, Miss Ginny had to shut him up for me. But this time, I answered confidently.

"Yes, it allows me to communicate with and influence the growth of plants. It's been quite useful in various situations." I chose my words carefully, remembering how his distrust had stung in my past life.

Elma, ever the optimist, chimed in. "Liliana's magic is incredible! You should see how she can make flowers bloom in seconds."

Cyan raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. "Useful, perhaps. But practical? Time will tell."

Ginny shot him a disapproving look but said nothing.

The conversation moved on, and I focused on enjoying the meal, determined not to let Cyan's attitude dampen my spirits.

The rest of the lunch passed in a blur of conversation and laughter. Despite the underlying tension, it was a relief to be surrounded by people who, for the most part, seemed genuinely welcoming.

After lunch, Ginny guided us back to our rooms. As we walked, she leaned in and whispered, "Don't mind Cyan. He's just protective of the household. He'll come around."

"Remember, if you need anything, just let me know," she said, her gaze lingering on me a moment longer than necessary. It was a small comfort, but a comfort nonetheless.

We made our way back to our rooms, the weight of the past and the uncertainty of the future heavy on my mind. As I entered my room and touched the tangerine plant on the table, I resolved to focus on the opportunities ahead and to protect my friends from the shadows that had once darkened my life.

I spent the next few hours unpacking and organizing my belongings, after all the academy was going to start in 2 weeks and I had to stay here for the time being. The room was cozy, and I appreciated the peaceful view of the garden from the window.

As the sun began to set, a knock at my door interrupted my thoughts. It was Elma, her eyes bright with excitement.

"Liliana, it's time. Miss Ginny said we're to meet the Hawthorne family now."

I took a deep breath, smoothing down my dress. "Alright, let's go."

We met Aiden and Miss Ginny in the hallway, and together we made our way to the grand drawing room. My heart pounded with anticipation and a hint of nervousness. Meeting the Marquess was one thing, but now we would be introduced to the entire family, including the Marchioness, Terra and Liam.

As we entered the room, I braced myself for whatever lay ahead.