Chapter 35: A Brewing Storm
At the Everhart Estate
The morning sunlight poured into Tiara's study as she reviewed reports from the commoners' hospital. Lily stood nearby, organizing the files, while Felix leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, ever-watchful.
"Lady Tiara," Lily began, her voice soft, "did you hear about the new social gathering at the Marquise of Lennox's estate? The whole nobility is expected to attend."
Tiara looked up, raising an eyebrow. "Another one? It seems like there's always some gathering or ball. I wonder if nobles ever actually work."
Felix chuckled lightly. "Some might argue that attending these events is their work, my lady."
"Not for me, though," Tiara replied with a smirk. "But I'll attend. Who knows? Perhaps I'll hear something interesting."
As Tiara prepared for the gathering, an unexpected letter arrived. The seal of the imperial family gleamed on the envelope, instantly catching Felix's attention.
"A letter from the palace?" Felix said, stepping forward.
Tiara broke the seal and scanned the contents. Her expression turned amused.
"What is it?" Lily asked curiously.
"It's an invitation to a private tea party," Tiara said, holding up the letter. "Hosted by none other than Prince Chris himself."
Felix narrowed his eyes. "That's...unusual. The crown prince rarely hosts private gatherings."
"Exactly," Tiara mused, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "I wonder what he's up to."
At the Imperial Palace
Chris sat in his study, absentmindedly flipping through reports. His aide, Marcus, stood nearby, trying to keep the crown prince focused.
"Your Highness, Lady Tiara has accepted the invitation," Marcus said, breaking the silence.
Chris smirked. "Of course she did. I doubt she'd pass up an opportunity to spar with me verbally."
Marcus coughed awkwardly. "May I ask why you've invited her, Your Highness? It's...unusual."
Chris leaned back in his chair, his smirk widening. "Let's just say I'm curious about her. Besides, she's causing quite a stir in the noble circles. It's only prudent to keep her within arm's reach."
Meanwhile, Alistair and Lilith
In a dimly lit room within the imperial palace, Alistair sat across from Lilith. His golden hair gleamed in the candlelight, but his expression was far from charming.
"Tiara Everhart," he said, his tone sharp, "is becoming a nuisance."
Lilith sipped her tea delicately, her lips curling into a sly smile. "She's too busy playing the savior of the commoners. Let her wear herself out."
"She's gaining influence," Alistair snapped. "And worse, she's drawing Chris's attention."
Lilith raised an eyebrow. "Chris's attention? That's...unexpected."
"I won't let her interfere with my plans," Alistair said, his voice low and menacing. "We need to act before she becomes an even bigger threat."
"And what do you suggest?" Lilith asked, feigning boredom.
"Divide and conquer," Alistair replied. "We'll pit her against Chris. If they're too distracted fighting each other, they won't notice what we're doing in the shadows."
Lilith's smile widened. "Oh, Alistair, I do love when you get devious."