The Villainess With White Roses

Chapter 11 - A Entrance Of Intrigue

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THIRD PERSON

The ballroom sparkles with luxury, its chandeliers casting a golden glow over the lively crowd. Noblemen and women drift between conversations, laughter spilling out in waves as they take sips from crystal glasses filled with fine wine. Music swirls through the air as couples glide across the dance floor, elegantly dressed in a rainbow of silk and satin.

Near the entrance, the Duke and Duchess of Eldrie, the evening's hosts, greet each guest warmly.

"Thank you for coming, Lady Haversham," the Duchess says, her voice polite and practiced, offering a nod and a graceful smile.

The Duke nods, clasping the hand of an elderly nobleman. "The pleasure is ours. An evening like this deserves good company." The couple exchanges satisfied glances, clearly pleased with the success of their gathering, as they continue to welcome the guests streaming into the grand hall.

Meanwhile, in a far corner of the ballroom, a group of noblewomen is gathered, their eyes sharp and their voices just low enough to avoid attracting attention. Lady Ella, with her trademark pink curls for gossip, leads the conversation.

"Have you notice, that Lady Castiglivon has not graced us with her presence in quite some time?" Lady Vivian says, her brow raised with fake curiosity.

Vivian, tall and striking in a scarlet gown, exudes an aura of judgment, her every word laced with underlying ridicule.

Lady Eliza, a petite woman with a shrewd smile, smirks. "You didn't hear? Apparently, her father forbade her from attending. After that little scene at Lord Clevere's event... Well, how could he not?"

Lady Rowena, the youngest of the group and new commer into society, gasps. "What happened at Lord Clevere's?"

"Oh, didn't you know?" Lady Ella speaks, a pink-haired woman notorious for her love of gossip. "She slapped the son of a Count Ludwig. Right in front of everyone!" Her eyes sparkle with amusement as she leans in, as if sharing a dark secret. "That girl has no shame."

A chorus of laughter erupts, the ladies fanning themselves as they revel in the story. Lady Rowena, wide-eyed, listens intently, looking around nervously.

Lady Margot, known for her quiet demeanor but sharp tongue, shakes her head in mock sympathy. "Her poor father. The Marquise is such a kind, respectable man. Imagine raising such an ungrateful, viperous daughter! I can't imagine what he must endure."

Ella sniffs disdainfully. "Oh, I saw her near Madame Lilith's boutique last week. She looked dreadful, of course. Not even Madame Lilith's finest could save her."

Rowena glances between them, eyebrows knitting together. "But... is she really as villainous as you say?"

Vivian rolls her eyes. "Villainous is putting it lightly, dear. She's desperate, pathetic, utterly shameless. Always competing for the Crown Prince's attention, practically throwing herself at him. It's embarrassing to watch."

"But the Prince is too kind," Eliza chimes in, putting a gloved hand over her face dramatically. "He tolerates her, of course. A true gentleman would never humiliate a lady, no matter how vile she may be."

The group laughs again, as they continue, sharing every rumor, every little misstep, until a sudden hush falls over the room. The laughter dies, the whispers falter. All eyes are drawn to the grand staircase at the ballroom entrance.

And there she is.

She wore a stunning deep emerald green and black dress that radiated elegance and mystery. The bodice (corset-like top) hugged her shape, with a sweetheart neckline and sheer lace decorated with gold patterns. Semi-sheer, puffy sleeves added a classy touch with their delicate gold details. The layered skirt, with sparkling green underlays and bold black outer layers, created a striking contrast. Gold chains and floral designs flowed through the dress, paired with pretty gold jewelry for a sophisticated finish.