The noble's present has their eyes and attention on the people that came in. Like a family of royals, they walked down the stairs. An indescribable emotion to bow down washed over all who witnessed their glory.
Even the announcer had sweat on his brows, their aura making him a little scared.
"Madame CeCil, it is a pleasure to meet you here. I did not think you will make it".
"Lady Carter, this is a ball hosted by her Majesty, how can I not come??". The Duchess replied with a smile.
Diane stared at the battle that just started. Sighing inwardly, she cursed. Diane had always tended to avoid gatherings like these, the women here has tongues as sharp as knives and as poisonous as snakes.
In a world were women hardly hold power, or allowed to do what they like, they can only rely on their assets to survive.
Being a doctor, a knight, or a politician in this era as a woman has been frowned upon.
Sometimes, men will wonder why a woman's court has so many hidden vipers.
Assuring the worried girl that she will be fine, Diane walked to a place where she can see what is going on and whoever Elise dances with.
The top of the hall is the best place to see whatever is going on.
Diane went there, not knowing that someone was there before her.
The woman dressed in red licked her ruby lips as she watched Diane climb the stairs without making a sound with her heeled shoes.
"Oh!! Forgive me, I had no idea that someone came here". Diane exclaimed.
The woman laughed, her melodious voice filling Diane's ears and making her stunned.
"No worries. This place is not built for one person is it??".
" Alright then. Forgive me for intruding ". Diane stood close to the woman, feeling no need to shy away.
The first man that danced with Elise looked average. He is not very tall, and not short either. Diane had no idea on who he is.
" That is Baron Burg's son, Peter Burg. He is the third son".
"A Baron's son?? ". Diane didn't seem to realize that it was someone who told her who he is.
" Aahh... Thank you for the reminder". Diane quickly thanked her. She was kind of embarrassed that she didn't know a person like that.
" You haven't been seen in the society for a long time, it's normal that you won't remember some people. Much less a Baron's son". The Lady waved Diane's nervousness off, her nonchalant attitude and tone of speaking calmed Diane's heart a little.
" Sir Levi, son of Earl DeBris".
"Mr Walter, a well known merchant that deals in gold".
The woman introduced every male that came close to Elise, what they did and how their reputation is.
" My name is Maria De Carter". The Lady introduced herself.
"I am Diane McKade". Diane curtsied beautifully. The hem of her gown fluttering due to the wind that caressed them.
"It is a pleasure to meet you Lady Diane. May I ask if you are enjoying this ball??".
"To be truthful...". Something compelled Diane to tell Maria the truth, she just trusts her.
"I hate parties like this. I would prefer staying in the mansion or teaching the Little Ladies". Diane checked Maria's expression from the corner of her eyes. Unfortunately, Maria still had a small smile on her lips, her playful gaze made Diane unable to see through her.
You might think your worst enemy is in the battlefield but you are wrong.
Women, especially strong and cunning ones are the worst enemies a person can get. Hell hath no fury than a woman scorned they say, and it is rather true.
Women can only rely and have faith on the gowns they wear, the headpiece they have on their heads, the latest news they heard, or how scheming they are. In this era, that is the only way a woman can survive.
Look, the Duchess just arrived and others are trying to have her make a mistake.
"Ohohoo..." A lady laughed derisively, pointing her fan at Diane who stood behind Elisa.
"Isn't this Lady Diane?? The Daughter of the Viscount?? How were you able to attend this ball?? Did you come with your parents??". Using the fan to block Diane from seeing half of her face, she pretended to gasp surprisingly.
"How could I have forgotten. The Lady's house is no more. She has no title right now, how sad". The woman snickered softly and others followed her lead. Heads turned to see the drama happening, some of them recognized Diane will some did not.
"Lady Joanne, you were taught not to gossip about others were you not?? To even dare to cause trouble in a ball that is hosted by Her Highness, it could be misinterpreted as you having no respect for the monarchy". Diane had a sharp tongue but she used it in a mild way, after all, she doesn't want to be accused of what she is implying.
Lady Joanne's face turned red. She couldn't retort how she wanted to. Diane's reply gave no room for that.
"Hmph!!". Lady Joanne turned back embarrassed, she went to look for trouble but ended up being the one sent back instead.
Elisa looked on with obvious interest, her eyes fixed on the angry Joanne.
"Little Lady, haven't you found anyone you want to dance with?? Look, there are many people waiting in line". Gesturing to the noblemen trying to exchange glances with Elisa, Diane wanted to leave.
"Where will you go?? Those other ladies might bully you". Concerned, Elisa held her arm.
"Don't worry, I'll be okay. No other person will dare to offend a person from the Duchess home".