The maids, their hands trembling slightly, cast anxious glances towards one another, silently acknowledging the shared disappointment. In that fleeting moment, their eyes mirrored the mix of emotions that danced within them,a sense of duty, loyalty, and a touch of personal longing.
Although their own hearts sank with the realization that the proposal letters were not meant for their princesses, they maintained their composure. With steadfast resolve, they approached their ladies, their eyes averted, and gently handed over the letters. They murmured soothing words of support, masking their own disappointment behind a facade of strength.
Anna was the first maid to spoke "Princess Rose, the letter I received was for Rhefa" she said in one breath.
Rose froze in disbelief, she snatched the letter from her and read it out "Your beauty is unmatched, I couldn't sleep ever since I saw you serving at the ball, allow me to court you and turn you into a lady. Your beloved Duke Frank" she tore the letter in rage.
The other princesses wear the same expression when they realized, none of the letters was for them, but to a lowly servant.
"I am going to suck her blood dry, that low life" Princess Ella said in anger.
"I don't think that will be enough, I want her to die a terrible death, only then will I have peace of mind" Princess Isa spoke out.
"I clearly told that piece of garbage, to stay away from the ball yet she defied me" Princess Belle frowned.
Princess Leah had a manipulative smile "You all have got nothing to worry about, I know a perfect way we are going to get rid of her" she said.
"Let discuss in my chamber right now"Rose commanded. "You are all useless for nothing, don't follow us and don't you dare tell a soul if you don't want to lose your life" she threatened maids and lead the way, her stepsisters followed.
Anna sighed "What has she gotten herself into."
The rest of the maids seem satisfied with whatsoever they wanted to do to Rhefa, it like they also want her gone. Jealous people around her she needs to stay in her lane but can she really? it not like she loves trouble it was trouble that fell in love with her and now can't do without her.
At the royal court, Eric sat next to his father's throne, His gaze was intense and calculating, like he was dissecting each man's motives and weighing their worth. As the corrupt dukes and lords continued to drone on about their own selfish interests, the prince's facial expression betrayed his distaste for their lack of integrity. His lips were pressed firmly together, his brows furrowed in disapproval.
Despite his obvious displeasure, however, the prince remained composed and patient. He knew that his time would come to enact change and restore fairness to the kingdom. Until then, he bided his time, quietly observing and waiting for the right opportunity to strike the corrupts subject.
Outside the grand entrance to the royal court, her arms crossed over her chest as she awaited her master's return. Her stomach rumbled loudly, She had been up since before dawn and had no time to eat since today was her first day serving the crown prince.
Although the first day didn't start well but seems to be going well now since his highness was kind enough to over look her wrongdoings,She thought.
As the hours ticked by, her discomfort grew, but she refused to let her hunger show. She knew that as a servant, it was her duty to put her master's needs before her own.
Finally, the gates creaked open, and the prince emerged, his regal bearing commanding respect from all who saw him. Rhefa quickly composed herself, smoothing down her tunic and tucking her hair behind her ears. As the prince approached, she bowed low, her eyes focused on the ground.
The prince led the way back into the palace, keeping a five spaces distance between the prince and her. She felt her stomach grumble once again which makes Eric stop on his track and turned backed to look at her.
"I am sorry your highness, I forgot to have breakfast that what, I apologize for the loud sound" she bowed truly sorry.
"I never asked you" he said with zero emotion and move on, she followed silently embarrassed by her own words.
All five of them were united in their desire to implicate Rhefa , but opinions varied on how best to do so. Their voices were hushed and urgent as they crafted their plan, each sister contributing her own unique perspective, until finally, a plan was agreed upon.
With determined expressions on their faces, the princesses rose from the bed and exited the room, ready to set their plan into motion.
Anna took a deep breath and smoothed down her skirts as she made her way through the bustling corridors of the grand Palace . She had been at the Palace long enough to know the quickest route to the kitchen, but today her steps were slow and cautious.
As she approached the door to the bustling kitchen, the smells of freshly baked bread and simmering pots of soup filled her nostrils.
She smiled at the sight of Aunt Maggie, dressed in her apron and bent over a large pot of stew.
"Aunt Maggie," Anna called out softly, trying not to startle the woman. "I need to speak with you about something that happened this morning"
Aunt Maggie straightened up and turned to face Anna, a worried look on her face. "What is it, dear? Has something happened to any of the royals?"
Anna shook her head. "No, it's nothing like that. It's just that...well" she paused for moment and whispered to her ears not wanting the other maids in the kitchen to hear "It about Rhefa" she said with a worried expression.
Aunt Maggie's eyebrows furrowed in concern, but she motioned for Anna to follow her into the quieter part of the kitchen. Anna took a deep breath and followed her.