"She could eat an entire horse with that pace she's going," Jade softly whispered, poking Teresa slightly on the side to gain her attention. Teresa only nodded, chuckling to herself while scooping on the thick mushroom soup with her wooden spoon.
Two amused ladies sat watching a starving, unfamiliar girl on the opposite side of the table. It's no ordinary scene. They haven't had guests for quite some time. After an assassination attempt, the kingdom closed the castle gates from the public, allowing only those with permits inside.
A commoner's tongue caused a ridiculous rumor about the assassin belonging to this kingdom. News suddenly spread like wildfire, and when everything was in chaos, people seemed to believe almost anything without having to confirm the validity of a rumor.
The royals had thought it was only another attempt out of spite from the Kingdom of Creupias. But the rumor reached them with such an adverse effect despite not wanting to believe it. The royals became afraid even to trust their very own people.
The disappearance of mages who had possibly gone rogue supported the commoner's rumor. No one knows what truly happened to the mages that pledged to serve the kingdom with their magic. However, some would say that they were mistreated and used for their powers, giving them the reason to push for an escape.
The kingdom of Aqora may be full of oppressive rumors that disturb the peace and prompt mistrust among the people, but it is known to be the biggest and strongest among all kingdoms. Amidst disarray, fate decided to land Thana in that very situation.
"If you wish to make more judgments of me, I would appreciate it if it's done with better discretion. Not on the table where I could clearly hear your voices- yes, you're loud, and I feel your eyes weighing on me," Thana speaks half-heartedly after clearing the food in her mouth.
"Apologies," Jade replies with wide, shy eyes, "you poor girl- here, have some more muffin."
Teresa softly smiles as she inspects the ladies. She feels terrible for lying to Jade about Thana's background, and she's aware that Jade might feel confused and curious about the suddenness of Thana's arrival.
But Teresa trusts Jade with all her heart. She knows that Thana would be in good hands within her watch. And sooner or later, she knows they're bound to get along quite well.
Putting Thana to work under the palace might be dangerous, for she has no knowledge of this world. Thana being hidden in the kitchen is the safest method Teresa could think of rather than having to sneak her out of the palace.
Teresa knows that being out of the palace walls is not easy, especially when one is alone and unfamiliar. Being in the capital with no family, no money, and coming from a different world will invite trouble.
She can't simply leave Thana out on her own after the sudden feeling of taking responsibility for the girl. She wants to keep her under her sight. And so Thana will stay in the palace, fed and protected.
Teresa could only hope that Thana doesn't bring attention to herself. The worst-case scenario she could think of is having to get the royal's attention.
But as she looks at the girl with cobalt eyes, she finds herself with hope. Everything will be alright.
"No- we do not speak to royals. When we come across them, which rarely happens, we will make way and bow our heads. We do not make eye contact," Jade explains to Thana. Her eyebrows creased, and she spoke with severeness of the matter.
Thana's eyes drop down disappointingly, and she mutters something barely audible, "how awfully boring."
"Jade is right. Do not bring attention to yourself, especially in front of royalty. Thana, you must be on your best behavior if you want to survive here," Teresa adds.
Thana lifts her right hand near the tip of her right eyebrow in a salute, making Teresa and Jade stare at her, confounded by her sudden action. Thana grins and says, "Yes, ma'am, no trouble shall come your way."
Trouble loves to follow Thana around.
"No trouble should be coming from you. You're lucky that Madam Teresa desired to help you. I have always known her to be that generous," Jade looks at the woman she adores and admires.
And she adds genuinely, "I am in your debt. I will honor your favor, and I will guide Thana as you have guided me before."
Teresa could only smile gratefully at Jade. It may be unfair that Jade is heedless of the situation as she is tasked to watch over someone from another world, but she will still know the truth when the right time comes.
As much as possible, they must be careful. Thana managed to spawn in the palace out of the blue, and she carries no valid identity. Teresa is determined to work on this matter in an instant.
"By the way, you look lovely in that uniform, dear. It fits you perfectly," Teresa comments on Thana's more proper appearance.
Thana felt clean and refreshed after the bath that was offered to her. She wore her uniform the way Jade had instructed her. She brushed her hair and pinned it to the sides so it wouldn't bother her face.
She could not find any make-up that would cover her scars. This could have disturbed her, but she realized how the first three people she met did not make any comments about her face. Then maybe there's no need to conceal.
Thana is going to find her way through this world bare-faced. She doesn't know what awaits her, but the feeling of being slightly confident and at ease helps her. This feeling came after meeting Adelaide in her dreams.
"You did a good job prepping her, Jade. Thank you again. Now, I believe that we are finished with our breakfast. Shall we get on with this day?" Teresa concludes.
"I believe we should. Thana, are you ready?" Jade replies and looks at Thana.
Thana could only nod, "I'm no spoiled brat despite coming from a wealthy family. I have known labor before. How hard could this be?"