Chapter 85: A Cup of Truth
Ariana walked silently through the hallway, just as Leah arrived. Upon seeing her, Leah bowed respectfully and said,
"Queen Ariana, may I put this on you?"
𝕗𝗿𝕖𝐞𝐰𝗲𝕓𝐧𝕠𝕧𝗲𝐥.𝚌𝐨𝚖
Ariana gave a small nod, and Leah stepped forward, gently placing a creamy hat atop her head. It matched her gown perfectly. Once she was done with the hat, she helped Ariana slip on her gloves.
Now fully dressed, Ariana was ready.
"This way, Queen Ariana," Leah said, gesturing ahead. "Two people have already arrived. One more is expected any minute now."
Ariana gave a simple nod, and the two continued walking through the hallway. As they reached the main area, they entered through a garden path. The wind gently blew, and the noon sun blazed overhead. It was harsh, as expected at that hour, but thanks to the hat, it didn’t bother Ariana much.
Finally, she saw the place—an open-air structure, like a garden pavilion. Flowers surrounded the area, blooming in every direction. Three maids stood nearby, dressed differently from the usual palace staff. They were most likely assigned to serve tea.
Ariana’s eyes moved to the two ladies already seated. They both wore light purple dresses, though each had a unique pattern and design. From where she was walking, she could make out some details—one woman had rich brown hair, the other had pure black.
The space ahead was elevated by three gentle steps and had no walls, just elegant shades overhead to block the sun. The tables were adorned with fine ceramics—luxury teacups and dishes that whispered refinement. The women appeared to be deep in conversation, not expecting the Queen to arrive so soon.
When they noticed her, they stood abruptly, slightly startled, then quickly curtsied in unison.
"Greetings, my Queen," they said politely.
Ariana acknowledged the gesture with a slight curtsy and took her seat at the head of the table. She sat gracefully.