As we stepped out of the tea party, the crisp afternoon breeze kissed my cheeks, a welcome relief from the stifling atmosphere inside. I exhaled slowly, pressing my fingers lightly against my temple.
"That argument was making my head throb a little," I muttered, rubbing my temple as we walked down the cobbled path.
Cassandra let out a small chuckle, glancing at me with amusement. "I was actually surprised you didn't say anything towards the Madam. You didn't even try to steer the conversation into something deeper. I expected at least a few words from you."
I gave her a small, knowing smile. "My father's stance is not something I easily get into, nor do I want to deal with politics. For now, I just want to enjoy myself."
Marian, who had been silently listening, sighed. "That may be the case now, but it's something you'll have to get used to eventually. In noble society, this is how we battle—through words, influence, and alliances. It's the unspoken warfare of our kind."
Her words struck a chord within me. She was right. We noblewomen may not contribute through managing economic affairs or governing lands directly, but we play a crucial role in shaping power through social maneuvering. Words were our weapons, and influence was our currency. Every tea party, every ball, every whispered rumor—it all contributed to securing our family's standing, forging alliances, and outmaneuvering rivals.
A single misplaced comment could ignite a scandal, while a well-timed whisper could dismantle reputations. But then, I wondered—was there even anything left to ruin of mine? My name was already tainted with notoriety.
It felt like an intricate dance, each step carefully measured—a game played in lavish salons and grand parties, where porcelain cups concealed sharper edges than swords, all under the guise of civility.
But for now, I had no desire to partake. I was not yet desperate enough to claw my way to power among the young noblewomen.
Sensing the weight of the conversation, Cassandra changed the topic with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Well then, if you want to enjoy yourself, how about something thrilling? Would you like to attend a masquerade ball with us?"
I blinked. "A masquerade?" I had heard of them, of course. In the capital, such events were known for their mystery and allure. Most who attended sought adventure or the excitement of anonymity.
Marian grinned. "You know how these balls go. The masks make it easier for people to indulge in things they normally wouldn't. Some attend simply for the thrill, others… for far more intimate pursuits."
I raised a brow. "So you're saying it's a place to—"
"—secure a partner for the night?" Cassandra finished with a playful smirk. "Precisely."
I hummed in thought. So, in a way, it was the noble equivalent of a bar—dance, drink, and, if you so desired, leave with someone at your side. Of course, that all depended on personal preference.
I had always been curious about these gatherings, but experiencing one firsthand would be an entirely different matter. The allure of anonymity, of a night where identities were hidden and social standings momentarily blurred, intrigued me.
In my previous life, even something as simple as going out for drinks at a bar had been beyond me.
That's right—I had been too weak-hearted for such things. But now? Now, I wanted to change that. I wanted to cross this off my list.
"So," Marian leaned closer, her tone teasing, "are you going to bring an escort?"
"No," I answered without hesitation. "Since it's a masquerade, most people come alone and leave with company if they wish. That anonymity is part of the appeal, isn't it?"
Cassandra nodded approvingly. "That's right. Everyone arrives unattached, but who they leave with is another matter entirely. It's all about choice."
I smiled, my mind already drifting to the possibilities of the night ahead. No father to watch over me, no looming expectations. For once, I could indulge in my own curiosity without worry.
Little did I know, my brief taste of freedom would not go unnoticed.
"Will the two gentlemen be joining us as well?" I asked, casting a glance at Cassandra.
She let out a dramatic sigh. "Of course. Sneaking out alone would be impossible, so I have to drag Cedric along. Perks of having a twin brother who's just as reckless and nosy as I am," she added with a smirk.
Marian chuckled. "Same for me. My mother would never let me out without a proper excuse, but luckily, I convinced her I'd be staying at Cassandra's. And since Cedric is coming, Erol won't be far behind. You know how it is—we've always gotten into trouble together."
I laughed. "Oh, I've heard plenty about that. Even my butler warned me, saying it's fine to be friends with you all, but I should steer clear of your... mischief. Apparently, the four of you have quite the reputation." I arched a brow. "Honestly, I was surprised. You all seem perfectly normal whenever I'm around."
Cassandra grinned, eyes glinting with mischief. "Oh, just wait and see."
"Since the four of us will be arriving together, I don't think we'll need that many invitation cards. I'll have a messenger deliver mine to you," Marian said casually.
"That works for me. I'll see you later tonight, then," I replied with a small smile.
With that, we finally parted ways, each of us stepping into our respective carriages. As the wheels began to turn, carrying me back home, I leaned against the cushioned seat, lost in thought.
How should I go about leaving tonight? Perhaps after dinner would be best. I had never really tried sneaking out before—not properly, at least. But then again, was there even a need for me to sneak? As long as I was careful, I could slip out without raising suspicion. The real challenge would be ensuring that none of the servants grew too curious and decided to inform my father.
I sighed, watching the passing scenery outside the window. No matter what, I would make it to the masquerade tonight.
ꪆৎ
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As I sat at the grand dining table, I focused on eating slowly, carefully keeping my expression neutral. The servants moved about efficiently, setting dishes before me, refilling my glass, and tending to their duties. I answered their occasional inquiries with simple nods or hums, ensuring I didn't give anything away.
Then, just as I was reaching for my wine, a footman stepped forward and presented a letter on a silver tray.
"A letter from Count Roman's residence, my lady," he announced, bowing slightly.
I stilled for only a fraction of a second before gracefully setting my glass down. This was it. The invitation.
With practiced ease, I took the letter, breaking the seal with a composed expression. Inside, the expected words greeted me, confirming the masquerade's details. My heart pounded, but I maintained my usual poise, scanning it as though it were any other routine correspondence.
"Thank you," I said smoothly, folding the letter and placing it beside my plate. "You may go."
The footman bowed and stepped away, and I resumed my meal, careful not to let my excitement betray me.
After finishing dinner, I placed my utensils down and dabbed my lips with a napkin. "Prepare my bath," I instructed my maids, stretching lightly. "I'll take it myself. I'm exhausted from the tea party at Madame Carmen's and wish for some solitude."
The maids exchanged glances, their hesitation lingering in the air. Before any of them could speak, Maya, my personal maid, stepped forward, her brow slightly furrowed.
"My lady," she began carefully, her voice laced with concern. "Forgive me for asking, but… is something wrong? Ever since you returned from the tea party, you've seemed different. It's unlike you to dismiss us so quickly."
I forced a small smile, keeping my tone light. "It's nothing, Maya. The gathering was just tiring, that's all." I waved a hand dismissively. "You're overthinking it."
Maya didn't look convinced, her sharp eyes studying me, but she knew better than to press further. After a brief pause, she nodded. "If you say so, my lady."
"Actually," I added, standing from my seat, "you and the others may retire early as well. There's no need to wait up for me tonight."
Her lips parted slightly in surprise, but she quickly bowed her head. "Understood, my lady."
With that, I turned on my heel, heading toward my chambers, leaving Maya and the other maids behind. I could feel her lingering gaze on my back, but I kept my pace steady, ensuring I betrayed nothing.
I needed to be alone. The night's plans were already set in motion.
Soon, I was alone in the bathing chamber. The warm water was inviting as I stepped in, allowing the heat to soothe my body. I leaned back, closing my eyes for a moment. My mind, however, was racing.
Once I finished, I wrapped myself in a thick towel and moved to my vanity. The room was silent except for the faint crackling of the fireplace. This was it—the final preparations for the night.
I slipped into the dress I had chosen earlier: a flowing off-shoulder gown that draped elegantly around me. Ever since I started wearing this style, it had become a trend, with more and more noblewomen adopting the look. I smirked slightly at the thought—I had become something of an icon, even with my villainess reputation.
Next, I reached for my earrings—artifacts I had impulsively splurged on earlier that day. They held a subtle yet effective enchantment, allowing me to change my hair color at will. As I held them, a pang of regret hit me—I could only use them five times, and they had cost a small fortune. The price still made my heart ache, but tonight, the disguise was worth it.
With a soft shimmer, the magic activated, and in the mirror, I watched as my hair transformed—dark strands fading seamlessly into a radiant golden hue, like spun sunlight cascading over my shoulders.
The final touch—the mask. A simple yet elegant piece that only covered my eyes. I held it in my hands for a moment, admiring the craftsmanship. Not yet. I would put it on later.
In a short span of time, I had meticulously arranged everything. Cassandra had secured a carriage for me, discreetly stationed by the back gate. I had also taken the time to study the knight shift schedule, learning that the guards changed precisely two hours after dinner.
For a brief window, the departing knights would be preoccupied with handing over their duties, while the incoming ones had yet to fully settle into their posts. That fleeting lapse in vigilance was my perfect chance to slip away unnoticed.
I took a deep breath. My heart was pounding wildly, anticipation flooding my veins.
This was it.
Grabbing my robe, I wrapped it around myself and quietly made my way downstairs. The night awaited.