The Rose Princess

Five: The Grand Ball

The castle excitedly buzzed excitedly of the grand ball finally arrived. The castle was laden with decorations and trays of delicacies, while the chefs toiled in the kitchen, preparing a delectable feast. The air was filled with the mingling scents of fresh flowers and savory dishes, a prelude to the night's extravagance.

Ceriva strolled through the grand hall with August and Alda by her side. Their eyes swept over every detail, ensuring nothing was out of place. Lilia trailed behind them, assisting with any of the mistakes. She spent all night thinking about the king. Even as she went to sleep she dreamed of him. They were walking in the garden, talking endlessly about themselves and their lives. She couldn't help feeling she enjoyed being around him.

"This table," August said, her voice clipped as she gestured toward a display of flowers. "Lilia, the arrangement is off-center. Fix it immediately. The guest must be greeted by perfection the moment they step inside."

Lilia nodded, getting her head out of her thoughts and quickly fixing the display.

Ceriva gestured to Lilia to the other display of flowers so she could adjust them.

"Everything is perfect." Ceriva looks around.

"Yes, I suppose, for your first ball. It is good enough." August conceded. "Tell me. Were you successful in completing your duties with the king?"

"Yes, mother," Ceriva whispers. She didn't want anyone to hear them speaking about it. Lilia focused on the display as they said. Her preceding feelings were excitement and happiness that Ceriva and Remi were finally getting close after seemingly giving up. Her next was something that felt unfamiliar, she couldn't tell, but it was a feeling she didn't like.

"It is nothing to be ashamed of Ceriva. It is your job. Let us hope you are carrying his heir soon. A queen who can't provide for her king is worthless."

As they continued their inspection, Queen August pointed out various other things. Ceriva followed her mother's instructions, her mind racing with the myriad tasks yet to be completed.

As they approached the ballroom, Lilia's steps faltered when a voice called her name. She turned to find Lord Astin walking towards her, his brown eyes warm with an unspoken invitation.

Lilia hesitated, glancing toward Ceriva, who briefly acknowledged the exchange with a glance but said nothing. Oblivious to the interaction, August continued walking, her focus unwavering as she discussed the final details with Ceriva.

"Lilia, is that you?"

He was a young nobleman she had known during her time at the convent. He had been a friend, often visiting the convent with his family for charitable events.

"Lord Astin," Lilia greeted, her surprise evident. "What brings you here?"

"I'm visiting Moorcrest on business," he explained with a warm smile. "I heard about the ball tonight and received a last-minute invitation. I must say, It's a pleasure to see a friendly face in these grand halls."

"It is a pleasure to see a familiar one as well." Lilia returned the smile. "How is the convent? Father Fletcher?"

"Ever the energetic one." He chuckles. "He has once again found new orphans to care for but do not worry. Mother Renee is always there to make sure he doesn't overdo it."

"That is good to hear. I always worry for him. He is nearing seventy and still acts as if he is our age."

"The children keep him young." He chuckled again, his expression turned thoughtful. "I have an idea, Lilia. Why don't you accompany me to the ball tonight? It would be wonderful to have you there."