Chapter 531
"..." — With as silent an audience as I was supposed to be mute, I strolled and came to stand before the mirror, looking at myself... who looked fresh yet mature... in a dress of burgundy, white and golden details just like the colours of my chambers I have come to appreciate so much.
"My lady..." — I heard Paige sigh, awestruck at the sight of my reflex while I also admired the fabric covering my neck that was decorated luxuriously hiding what was underneath for it had not healed completely, aware that such part of the dress was not originally in the design but was recently requested by my detail-oriented, and thoughtful father...
’Lovely...’ — I thought, moved by the elegance the cape and lace added without hindering the piece’s finesse... feeling a different kind of awe at my figure that I wanted to replace soon for the playful one I used to have. Pondering about it while I took a better look at my attire. — ’It feels odd to say I am hot... but should I say I look stunning now? The energy is amiss, nonetheless...’
"Is there some touch-up the lady would like us to repair?" — At some point, Paige asked, worried at how much I stared at myself. Making me finally stand one last time in front of the mirror to shake my head as it was not necessary.
’A touch-up would be dangerous. As I am, I am a stunning weapon.’ — I smirked as I thought, embarrassed even to have such confidence.
Where was I going? Certainly, I had no clue. And evidently, I was not going to ask after learning Dad has been preparing this surprise for months. What I did know was my beauty had heightened in such a wonderful dress and that if I needed to guess, was I to consider any possible answer as to where I would be taken, it would probably be to our household’s manor.
’Did he prepare a birthday party at home?’ — I wondered after Paige told me I had to board a carriage to leave the palace’s grounds. — ’I do not have many friends so it would rather be a little empty for a party... although if I use the Ninth’s title as bait for the nobles, surely many would gladly assist...’
Sir Vitor and Theodore, as well as Paige were my companions as I crossed the Main Palace. I initially thought Dad would come to get me, or maybe... the crown prince... but instead I left my chambers alone, followed by my chaperons and Paige to ultimately meet someone I did not expect at the main Hall.
"My Lady Marianne, congratulations on this day. His Grace has given me the honour of escorting you today to myself... hopefully, you will not find it uncomfortable."
’... Duke Clemente...’ — After watching how stoic his reverence was and how his eyes respectfully looked at me in wait for a response, I nodded slightly ashamed... for I did find it uncomfortable, yet not because of the man himself but for the words I had spilt the last time we crossed paths before Paul took me away.