Cain Endritt is a small merchant in Hutchrene. He owns a small and dilapidated antique shop that no one wants to visit. Of course, he had to make it look like something uninteresting to drive the common people away. After all, his antique shop is an entry to the black market. Only a few people, mostly nobles, knows the real appearance of his shop.
Anything can be bought and sold in the black market, even human lives, and Cain is the lord of under-the-table transactions. He sells just about anything. From forbidden items to informations to slaves. For a small baron in the countryside, he was intelligent and well-versed in the art of business. To him, money is everything. He accepts both good and bad money. This is the reason why he agreed to help with the rebellion. The promises that he'll be rewarded with riches.
He lend his knowledge about explosives. He wasn't the one who discovered gunpowder, he got it from the eastern continent but he knew how to make it work. He was, in fact, the first person in Sunniva to create explosives and introduce gunnery.
But despite their preparations, the rebellion still failed. And Cain, being a main contributor to the rebellion, was beheaded in the end.
This time around though, Cain isn't the only one who knows about the gunpowder.
I stared at my reflection on the water.
Now, I'm here.
His knowledge of the gunpowder is nothing compared to what I know about modern warfare.
Cain is very useful. He is a very important side character I must have right now. I need his influence on the black market, his resources, and the way his mind works. He was a decent canon fodder when I was reading the novel. But there must be something more about him. What the caharacters are when I read them on the novel are what the author wants the readers to see. But after living here for more than a week, I found out Henrietta is not only an obnoxious and spoiled young lady but also a conniving creature who likes to torture her servants. The Marquis Lovell who appeared strict and stern had a soft side which he only shows when it's about his children.
The characters I knew in the novel are just the tip of an iceberg. There's more about them. And Cain, the possibilities of his traits and his knowledge are endless.
I must have him before that /brother/ of mine gets him.
"Milady, would you like to soak longer in the bath?" Annie, who was standing behind me, asked.
I leaned on the bathtub before shaking my head. "The water's cold. Bring me my robe."
"Yes, milady."
We arrived at the capital last night. I was asleep when we entered the capital and when I woke up we were already at the Lovell mansion. The Lovell mansion in the capital was smaller than the one in Hutchrene. It's a 3 storey mansion with a huge ballroom, a library, servant quarters and a huge rose garden. It's architectural design were elegant and simple. And just like the one in Hutchrene, burgundy is the color that emphasizes everything.
Even here, Henrietta's room was flamboyant like the one she had in Hutchrene. I was feeling sick of seeing all the red and extravagant designs so I requested to stay in the guestroom. The head butler, at first, was confused but in the end he wasn't able to do anything and ended up doing what I want.
The head butler in this mansion was more timid than the ones in the Lovell main estate. It was obvious he was a victim to Henrietta's 'cruelty'.
I stepped out of the bathtub and Annie quickly draped the robe around my shoulder. The water was really cold and I was still shivering. Did Annie forgot to prepare a warm bath?
I shrugged it off and went out of the bathroom. The guest room was more simple than Henrietta's room. A queen-sized canopy bed with with white bed sheets and burgundy pillows. Burgundy carpets, cream-colored couches with burgundy throw pillows, thick burgundy curtains, and golden ornaments placed on top of drawers, tables, and sheleves. A huge crystal chandelier hanging in the middle of the room.
It was simple, elegant, and burgundy. That's what defines a Lovell mansion. Every nook and crany of every rooms must have at least one piece of item that's burgundy colored. It's not like burgundy is a bad color, it's classic and fine. But this house should really need a new color opposite of burgundy in the color wheel.
I sat in front of the vanity table and then Giselle started to dry my hair.
Today is the emperor's birth anniversary. All nobles across the empire were invited. This is also an important part of the novel. The event in which the male lead, Alaric, realizes how deep his affection is for the female protagonist, Adelia. The same with last year's ball, the two wandered in the garden, away from the crowd. During this time, Alaric would notice Adelia as a woman and not as someone he shares the same aspirations for the country with. This is the time where he would think, /"Ah, what would it be like if Lady Adelia was my wife?"/
Reading their thoughts narrated in the novel was beautiful. The author wrote it in a way that it wasn't cringeworthy. Because of this scene, I came to like the chemistry between the two. How wonderful it would be if I get to witness the scene with my own two eyes?
But, before I do that, what did Henrietta do during that time?
Using a finger, I lightly scratched my chin. Henrietta didn't appear much in the first half of the novel. During this year's royal ball, she tried to humiliate Adelia by splashing wine at her, but Alaric came to the rescue and the wine splashed on Henrietta's dress instead. Then everyone laughed at her and she stormed out of the ballroom with fire spewing out of her mouth.
Deserved.
I facepalmed. I really should be siding with Henrietta this time since I am in her body. Well, the original soul deserved it but that doesn't mean I should get to experience what she went through.
That's right. I just have to lay low during the ball and observe. Think of it as a field study to further strengthen my plan.
"M-milady, w-would you like to put crystals o-or jewels on you hair?" Giselle asked pulling me out of my thoughts.
I looked at her, confused. "Why would you put crystals on my hair?"
Giselle started sweating. "Y-y-you always wanted y-your hair t-t-to be.... to be...."
I removed my gaze from her before heaving a sigh. "I understand what you are trying to say. /I/ always wanted my hair to be a peacock's nest and gather everyone's attention."
With a thud, Giselle kneeled on the floor. "M-m-milady! This lowly servant d-didn't mean to say that! I-I deserve to be punished tenfold!"
I gave her a helpless look. So, that's what she really thought. Well, we're the same. Henrietta really is like a peacock.
"I won't punish you. Get up."
She lowered her head even more.
My face twitched. How annoying.
"Did I bought you from a slave trader or something?" I asked while staring at my reflection in the mirror.
"N-no, milady." She answered in a low voice.
"Then get up and fix my hair. Aren't you my maid?"
"M-milady, I-I offended y-you..."
"Do I look offended?" I asked her. "You, not listening when I told you to get up is what's offensive."
She flinched then she immediately got back on her feet. She lowered her head before apologizing.
"Don't ask me to punish you again. I will punsih you when I see fit." I paused and gave her a cold look. "But if you know that your next action would offend me, think before proceeding."
She nodded vigorously. I waved a hand and told her to continue fixing my hair.
"You asked me if I want crystals on my hair? No. I don't want any. Make it simple. I decided to stop being a peacock."
The ball starts at 7 in the evening. It took me a whole day to prepare for it. Well, it took the maids a whole day to prepare me for the ball. All I did was sit there as they do everything for me.
Father is a very busy man so he wasn't able to welcome me yesterday when I arrived at the capital. But he promised me that he'll escort me to the ball. He even made excuses as to why Alaric couldn't come and escort me. Although I already know that Alaric avoids being with Henrietta, I still appreciate the marquis' efforts to not make her daughter feel bad.
We left for the palace an hour before the start of the ball. Sitting inside the carriage with the marquis made me feel even more nervous. The marquis looked dashing in his black tail coat. A burgundy cravat with gold linings was tied around his collar and tucked inderneath his black waistcoat. A simple brooch with a rose design and an emerald jewel in the middle was pinned on his cravat.
He was sitting on the carriage with his legs crossed while looking through a few documents. His golden blonde hair was slicked back neatly. He was also wearing a thin gold eye glasses with thin and small golden chains hanging on its hinges.
He looked dignified and respectable. Truly praiseworthy.
With a frown on his forehead, he dropped the documents and placed it on his side. He removed his glasses and carefully placed it on its box.
"Henrietta, in tonight's ball..."
"Yes, father. I will behave myself." I cut him off. I already knew what he wanted to say. I can't blame him if he's still worried I might stir some trouble.
He sighed, "I will not be with you during the whole duration of the ball. If you want to leave early, just inform your guards."
"I will, father."
He went silent for a moment. My gaze was lowered but I could feel him staring at me, as if trying to figure out what I was thinking.
"I will tell Alaric to accompany you."
I almost choked. I immediately looked at him while shaking my hands.
"Please, do not disturb his highness. Returning from the western border, he must be tired and would love to be alone."
Alaric definitely did not want to see me. It would be best if we do not see each other this time so he could go and confirm his feelings for Adelia. And I would really like it if I get to witness them fall for each other. Reading is different from personally seeing the scene unfold right before your eyes. So, I might do some eavesdropping tonight.
Father sighed, "If you say so."
The rest of the ride was silent. Neither of us spoke. After half an hour, we finally arrived at the palace.
Through the carriage window, I was met with a dazzling view.
It was the Palace of Versailles. No... It was much bigger and grander than the Palace of Versailles.
"Henrietta." I looked at father who was already outside by the carriage door. His hand was stretched towards me as if waiting for me to take it.
I nodded and accepted his hand. He helped me out of the carriage and as always, I almost tripped. They made me wear shoes with heels that were two inches tall. Good thing father was quick to assist me.
When I got out of the carriage I got a full view of the palace. We were standing in the courtyard and the huge Versailles-like palace stretched towards the horizon. It was jaw dropping. It was shining like a piece of jewel, so dazzling that even the thousands of stars in the nightsky were no match to its elegance.
There were other carriages in the frontyard. All were being led by palace servants towards a designated place for parking. As for the guests, there were servants dressed in black and white to lead them towards the ballroom. We entered the palace's huge double door entrance. It was widely opened with two royal guards guarding each side.
Once we entered the palace, we were met with an enormous hallyway. There were huge pillars on both sides of the hallway supporting the high dome-like ceiling. Hanging on the ceiling were giant crystal chandeliers with gold metal frames. The chandeliers illuminated the paintings on the ceiling which mostly depicts the history of the empire. They were very detailed to the point that they seemed life-like.
The floor was made of white marble that seems to reflect anything on its surface. Every step one took, it would resound all throughout the corridor. There were also golden statues standing on the sides along with elegant ceramic floor vases. Each vase holds the Sunnivan national flower, Lily. The scent of lilies permeated through the air as if welcoming every guests that passes through the corridor.
We stopped in front of an enormous double door that were opened widely. Two royal guards were standing on attention on each side.
"Are you ready?" Father asked beside me.
To be honest, I am not used to crowds. In my past life, I rarely attend mass gatherings. Whenever I am obliged to make a speech in front of a huge crowd, I get so anxious and nervous that my speech turns monotonous. I never got used to it until the day I died.
And now, I am in the body of a noble lady whose daily life revolves around showcasing oneself in high society. I suddenly need to become an outgoing person to survive this crazy social circle.
But it's alright. This time, I just have to stand at the side and become a wallflower. I only need to talk to one person tonight... talking isn't even required.
I tapped my side, feeling the inside pocket of my gown.
I just have to give /him/ this letter.
"Yes, father." I answered with a smile on my face.
Relief flashed across his face. He then offered me his arms. "Then, let us go?"
I nodded before wrapping my arms around his. I took a deep breath then we stepped into the ballroom.
"The Marquis of Hutchrene, Marquis Hendrich Cecil Lovell and his daughter, Lady Henrietta Eloise Lovell, has arrived."
The moment a butler announced our arrival, all eyes fell on us... No... They were all looking at me.
My mouth twitched and my smile stiffened. Forget about being a wallflower. Seems like everyone is waiting for the comeback of the empire's madwoman.
When I arrived at the capital, the servants in the mansion were different from the ones in Hutchrene. So it was expected that their backstabbing was different from the Hutchrene servants. When I was sneaking out last night to get some fresh air, the servants who were in charge of night vigils were talking in the corridors.
/'The madwoman is back.'
Those were the exact words they uttered. It wasn't mentioned in the novel, that the empire labeled a noble lady a 'madwoman'. I'm guessing Henrietta got this nickname when she threw a tantrum during the emperor's birth anniversary last year. There were a lot of nobles present on the royal ball last year so talks about Henrietta being fucked in the head spread like wildfire. The Marquis must've thought that the rumours were affecting Henrietta so he made her stay in Hutchrene.
But who knew that everyone didn't get over last year's scandal and instead, they're waiting for a second cour.
I suddenly felt conscious.
Giselle made sure I looked simple yet presentable. She fixed my hair into a high bun with a wrap-around braid. She made sure to keep it loose and a little messy. She then fastened in with a simple golden rose hairpin with small beads of white jewel embedded on its petals. She tried to make me wear an extravagant dangling earring but I chose a simple drop earring with a small white pearl hanging on a thin and thread-like golden chain.
I also chose a necklace similar to the the earring. From afar, it appeared like there's a single white pearl on my collarbone.
I also asked her to make my make-up look natural and only go all out with the lipstick. She made me wear a daring red lipstick and honestly, it complimented Henrietta's blonde locks and emerald eyes.
Henrietta ordered a bunch of dresses last year. She emptied out a famous boutique before returning to Hutchrene. All the clothes she bought remained untouched and was only gathering dust in her closet. Before I took over her body, Henrietta was already preparing for this royal ball. She even had some tailor in the capital prepare a dress for her all according to her taste. When I saw it, I immediately scrunched my nose expressing my utter distaste.
To avoid the fate of wearing that bright red gown that felt like it's trying to catch the attention of a bull instead of the people in the ball, I decided to go over Henrietta's closet. And I found a dress she bought last year when she emptied out a whole boutique. It was in the corner of the closet, separated from the others, in a box with a label 'trash'. I had the maids clean it, good thing there weren't any damage.
The gown was black with a low shoulder neckline. The design exposed my shoulders, neck, and collarbone. It was a good contrast of colors. Henrietta's skin was fair and the color of the gown made her skin even fairer. The bodice was made of a black matte fabric, tightly wrapping around my torso, emphasizing my curves. A wide and thick black silk ribbon with silving linings on the edges was wrapped around my waist.
The sleeves were made of the same material as the skirt, black sheer fabric. It was tailored to make it look flowy then a slit on the sides, exposing my fair and slender arms. The sleeves, despite its material, were not allowed to flow freely. It's ends were cuffed by the wrist with a fabric that was the same with the dress' torso then fastened with two silver buttons.
The skirt was made of layers of black sheer fabrics that reached the ground. It didn't need any crinoline, just the layers of fabric alone was enough to make the skirt look wide and bouncy.
To describe the gown in simple terms, it looked like a galaxy. The crystals were crushed to the point were they look like glitters and then sewn into the skirt, one by one. In contrast with the drak fabric, the crystals shone like stars. Every move, they would dazzle.
The dress was simple but screams elegance.
And Henrietta failed to notice its worth. The tailor obviously spent a lot of time making it. Good thing I saw it before it got thrown out.
I sighed. I don't have to worry. The dress is beautiful. Henrietta is beautiful...
/"Oh my, is that Lady Lovell?"
"It's the empire's madwoman."
"Remember what she did last year, truly embarrasing."
"No wonder she hid herself in Hutchrene for the oast months."
"Did you hear? The second prince despises her. Their engagement is a curse on the second prince."
"She treats her maids like slaves!"
"She does not deserve to be standing beside her honorable father."/
Nevermind Henrietta's physical appearance, her personality is rotten and everyone knows it.
Henrietta has keen ears. She has really good hearing than the others. I noticed it when I was still in Hutchrene. Eavesdropping was really easy because of this. At first, I thought it was because the halls of the mansion were quite but her keen hearing played a huge factor. This situation is the proof. Although they were whispers and mumbles, their words were loud and clear.
It was as if... as if....
I was pulled from my thoughts when father gently tapped my hand. I averted my gaze towards him. He gave me a gently smile, "Don't focus on the looks they give you or the words they throw at you. My daughter, you look lovely."
My heart thumped and somehow, all the worries I had a minute ago disappeared.
"Thank you, father."
I must've been yearning for such treatment that I was easily moved from just a simple reassurance.
We continued walking towards the ballroom, not paying attention towards other people's gazes. Why was I affected with their stares and their mockery? Those words and glares were directed towards the original goods. They were for Henrietta. Not for me.
The royal ball started the moment the emperor descended the grand staircase into his throne in the ballroom. The emperor Anastacius Soleil exudes a dignified aura. The moment he entered the room, an extreme pressure pressed on everyone who was present. We were standing far away from his seat so I wasn't able to get a glimpse of what the emperor looked like, but his presence alone was enough to describe his prowess.
After a few speech, the dance began and people started socializing. And as expected, father was summoned by the emperor for a private talk so he had no choice but to leave me to fend for myself. He was hesistant to leave, but I assured him that I will be fine.
I looked at the pocket watch I borrowed from him. The long hand of the clock exactly struck the number 12.
And I have somewhere important to be right now.
I closed the pocketwatch and with a smile on my face I left the ballroom and headed towards the palace garden.
I am going to witness a romantic rendezvous.
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