Behind the Royal Mask

Tea with the Ladies

A soft breeze stirred the air, carrying with it the fragrance of the roses blooming across the palace grounds. Beatrice sat beneath a shaded pavilion in the palace's vast garden, surrounded by six noblewomen, all dressed in their finest gowns. Silk and satin shimmered in the sun, making the scene almost idyllic.

On her right sat Lady Clarissa, a blonde with delicate features and an air of arrogance. She was of the highest nobility and had spent most of her life flaunting it. Her fan flashed open and shut as she emphasized her opinions, emphasizing her power over every conversation. 

Next to her was Lady Helena, older and dignified, with silver hair and an ageless beauty that spoke of wisdom. Lady Margot, a freckle-faced brunette with a warm smile, was friendly but observant, frequently looking to each woman as if weighing her words before speaking. 

Across from Beatrice sat two younger women, Lady Seraphine and Lady Liana, both appearing barely out of their teens, chattering with excitement, their sentences tumbling over each other's.

The ladies were midway through a conversation about upcoming events, the recent appearance of high-ranking diplomats, and the latest fashion trends from neighboring kingdoms. Beatrice sipped her tea, politely nodding at the right times while remaining silent, feeling slightly on the outskirts of their conversations.

Lady Seraphine leaned forward, her eyes sparkling. "Did anyone see the velvet cape the Duchess of Grendell wore at the last court event? Exquisite! The fabric must have cost a fortune."

"Oh, it's a marvel!" Lady Liana gushed. "My family owns a velvet cloak, though it is nothing as grand as the Duchess's. She is such a vision of elegance, don't you think?"

Lady Clarissa tilted her head in amusement. "I believe velvet can be dreadfully heavy if not styled right. Don't you think so, Lady Anya?"

Lady Clarissa looked at her with assessing eyes but Beatrice reciprocated with an unfazed gaze as she said, "Perhaps the wearer's character matters more than the fabric."

Lady Margot gave a tiny, approving nod while Lady Clarissa's expression tightened.

"You are right," Lady Clarissa remarked, "It is our character that sets us apart from the others... the commoners."

Beatrice sipped on her tea, deciding that looking at the rose bush was a better decision than spilling the tea on Lady Clarissa's expensive dress.

Lady Helena shifted the topic by saying, "I heard that some Kings of the Eastern lands have sent word to Prince Alaric regarding possible future alliances. After all, he is going to crowned as the King on the first day of the coming year."

"I doubt that the alliance with the Eastern lands will be formed," Lady Clarissa stated, "The pact between the four kingdoms wouldn't allow it."

"It's for the better though, isn't it," Lady Seraphine said, "This pact has proved to be so useful for the aristocrats."

"Must I remind you that a nation isn't made just of aristocrats, Lady Seraphine?" Beatrice said, trying to be polite but her voice on the edge.

Lady Seraphine gave a small, surprised laugh, clearly unprepared for a conversation that veered even slightly into matters of state. "Oh, well, I only meant... the stability it's brought! Surely you agree that the nobles must take precedence, Lady Anya, considering how much they contribute to the nation's strength?"

"That's right," Lady Clarissa supported, "Our families contribute to the kingdom's prosperity so our comfort precedes. Moreover, it's not like the commoners are starving out there. They are known to indulge in thefts and other violent activities so they can't be pitied."