Living Like a Mouse? How About a Lion?

The Perfect Tea Party

The kitchen buzzed with life as I strolled in like I owned the place. Pots clanged, knives chopped, and a few maids bustled around trying to keep things running smoothly. No one dared question why I was here, which was just as well. They probably thought I was up to my usual antics—making a scene about stale bread or throwing a fit over child-sized cutlery.

Not today, darlings. 

Today, I'm on a mission.

I rolled up my sleeves and headed straight for the pantry, where all the finest ingredients were kept. The queen had invited me to her little tea party last week, after all, so this was just... reciprocation. A thank-you, if you will. What better way to show my gratitude than with a personal touch?

The maids glanced at me from the corner of their eyes but quickly scurried away as I grabbed a mixing bowl and started pulling out flour, sugar, and a few other essentials. Today was going to be special. Today was going to be the queen's last tea party.

I hope she likes almond scones.

As I sifted flour into the bowl, I let my mind wander to the plan. The tea itself was harmless—pure as can be. The snacks, well, they were a delightful treat too. Nothing dangerous about them on their own. But together? Ah, that was where the magic happened. When the tea met the almond scones, the combination would become deadly. The poison in the petals I had harvested earlier would mix with the compounds in the scones, creating a lethal concoction no one could trace.

A little tea, a little snack... and poof. 

Problem solved.

I worked quickly but efficiently, my hands moving with practiced ease as I kneaded the dough and shaped it into perfect little rounds. My heart thrummed in my chest—not out of nervousness, but excitement. There was something exhilarating about watching everything come together. Every detail had to be just right. Every move precise.

As the scones baked in the oven, I moved on to the tea. The petals were dried now, ready to be crushed into the tea leaves. Just enough to blend in, not enough to draw suspicion. I brewed it with care, inhaling the delicate aroma as the steam rose from the pot.

Who knew revenge could smell so... lovely?

Once everything was ready, I set the table in the grand parlor, making sure each plate and cup was placed perfectly. The sun filtered through the windows, casting a soft, warm glow over the room. It was peaceful—serene. Exactly the kind of setting you'd want for an afternoon tea. How ironic.

I couldn't help but smile as I poured the tea into the delicate porcelain cups and arranged the scones on a pristine silver tray. It all looked so innocent. Who would ever suspect such a lovely scene to be the stage for the queen's demise?

When everything was in place, I stepped back to admire my work. A masterpiece, if I do say so myself.

Now, for the guest of honor.

With a quick nod to the butler, I sent word for the queen. After all, it would be rude not to invite her, especially after she went out of her way to host me last week. What kind of lady would I be if I didn't return the favor?

Minutes passed before the sound of footsteps echoed down the hallway, followed by the unmistakable voice of the queen's handmaid announcing her arrival. I smoothed out my dress and plastered the sweetest smile on my face.

The queen entered, her posture as regal and cold as ever. She cast her sharp eyes around the room, inspecting everything as if she were the one hosting.

Don't worry, Your Majesty. 

You won't be hosting anything after today.

"Penelope," she greeted me with a thin smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "How thoughtful of you to invite me."

Oh, it's my pleasure, really.

"Your Majesty," I curtsied, keeping my tone light and cheerful. "I couldn't possibly forget the lovely tea you hosted last week. I thought it was only right to return the kindness."

She took a seat at the table, her sharp gaze lingering on the tea and the perfectly arranged scones. "You've certainly gone all out."

Only for you.

"Nothing but the best for someone of your status," I replied smoothly, taking my own seat across from her. "I hope you enjoy the scones. I made them myself."

She raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical of the idea of me doing anything domestic, but said nothing. Instead, she reached for a scone, delicately lifting it to her lips before taking a bite. I watched her closely, my heart thrumming with anticipation. The trap was set.

Next, she lifted her cup of tea, taking a slow, deliberate sip. I mirrored her movements, pretending to enjoy my own cup while I kept my eyes on her. Any moment now...

But of course, it wasn't instant. The beauty of the plan was its subtlety. No dramatic collapse, no gasping for breath. Just a slow, creeping lethargy that would eventually take hold. I smiled inwardly, knowing that by the time she realized something was wrong, it would be too late.

We exchanged meaningless pleasantries as we sipped and nibbled, the queen oblivious to what was happening. She thought she had the upper hand, that I was just a pawn in her little game. But little did she know, I was no pawn.

heckmate, Your Majesty.

As the tea party continued, I played my part perfectly. The innocent host, the dutiful noblewoman. No one watching would suspect a thing. I even made small talk about the palace gardens, the upcoming royal events, all the while knowing that this was the end for her.

And when the time came, when the queen excused herself, feeling a sudden wave of exhaustion, I just smiled sweetly and wished her well.

Sleep tight, Your Majesty. 

Sleep tight.

As soon as she left, I let out a slow breath, feeling the weight of what I'd just done settle over me. It was over. Finally, it was over. The queen's reign of terror was finished, and I... well, I'd just secured my place in this twisted game.

I gathered up the dishes, humming a little tune to myself as I cleaned up the remnants of the perfect tea party. Tomorrow, the news would spread, and I'd be free. Free from her threats, free from her gaze, free from the constant danger that had shadowed my every move.

A perfect tea party for a perfect ending.