Third Arc (Fallen Heart) - 341. Sweet Talk
Just then, a young noblewoman, Lady Seraphine, approached shyly with her mother in tow. Rose had been lost in her conversation with Claire, but she quickly adjusted her posture, offering a polite and gracious smile as the two women neared.
"Your Highness, my daughter wished to greet you," Lady Seraphine's mother said softly, giving her daughter a gentle nudge forward. The young girl, no older than sixteen, curtsied deeply before Rose, her cheeks flushed with nervousness. She seemed intimidated by the presence of the soon-to-be queen, but there was a flicker of ambition in her eyes.
"Thank you for coming to greet me, Lady Seraphine," Rose said warmly, her tone soft and welcoming. She didn't want to intimidate the girl further, though she could feel the mother's calculating gaze from behind. It wasn't unusual for nobles to push their children toward important figures, especially those who were about to ascend to higher levels of power.
Lady Seraphine smiled nervously, her voice barely above a whisper. "It is an honor to meet you, Your Highness. My family has always admired your strength and… and grace."
Her mother, sensing her daughter's hesitation, quickly stepped in. "Indeed, Your Highness. My family has always supported His Majesty and now, of course, we stand fully behind you as well. We've seen how you've handled yourself with such dignity, even under your new role. We're certain you will be a wonderful queen."
Rose nodded, her smile remaining intact though she could sense the deeper intent behind the woman's words. Ever since her coronation had been announced, there had been a noticeable shift in how the court interacted with her. Some nobles, of course, remained cold or indifferent, preferring to wait and see how she handled her position. But others, like Lady Seraphine's mother, were eager to align themselves with her, recognizing that with Angel's support and the power of her own kingdom, Rose would soon be one of the most influential figures in Euphorion.
"I appreciate your kind words," Rose replied, her voice steady. "It is no easy task, but with His Majesty's support and the court, I am confident I will fulfill my duties."
Lady Seraphine's mother smiled brightly, clearly pleased with Rose's response. "You are truly a blessing to this kingdom, Your Highness. The nobility needed someone with your strength and poise to stand by the king's side. His Majesty's strength is undeniable, but with a queen like you, the kingdom will thrive in ways we could only imagine."
While the woman's compliments were flattering, they were also calculated. Rose knew that many of the nobles saw her as more than just Angel's wife—they saw her as an opportunity. With Angel's military might and the court's loyalty firmly secured, those who aligned themselves with Rose could strengthen their own positions. It was a strategic alliance for them.
"I will do my best to ensure that the kingdom remains prosperous and united," Rose said carefully, choosing her words to reflect her understanding of the politics at play. "And I will always stand by His Majesty to protect and guide Euphorion." The words were like a template for her. But yes, she had to do it like it or not.
Lady Seraphine's mother gave a quick nod of approval. "Of course, Your Highness. Our family is honored to be a part of such a prosperous future."
"Lady Seraphine, how are you enjoying the festivities?" Rose asked, turning the conversation back to the young girl, hoping to ease the tension a bit.
Lady Seraphine blushed and nodded quickly. "It's a beautiful event, Your Highness. The gardens are lovely, and the entertainment is wonderful. I—I hope to one day host such an event for my own family."
Her mother beamed with pride, clearly pleased with her daughter's response. She placed a gentle hand on Lady Seraphine's shoulder, urging her to stand a little taller. "Of course, Lady Seraphine will make an excellent hostess when the time comes. She's learning from the best, after all," she said, her voice filled with ambition, though her words remained polite.
Rose smiled again, though inwardly she felt a twinge of discomfort. She had grown accustomed to these kinds of interactions—where every word was a veiled attempt to secure favor or position—but it didn't make them any less exhausting. These small encounters with nobility, especially now, felt more like tactical maneuvers than genuine conversation.
'That's why Angel doesn't want to attend this kind of event.'
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