Standing in that narrow hallway, I stared at lady Bridget who was holding hands with her husband, a sign of affection that is rarely portrayed by nobles in the north. I doubt nobles here even have feelings for their spouses, but the lord in front of me looked very well in love with his wife. He was an intimidating person in the eyes of society, barbarian even, with how harsh and strict he can be with the knights he commands, yet towards his wife he seemed the most gentle and well-mannered a person can be, someone should be taking notes. Lord Rawclaw's gaze lingered on his wife, admiring her beauty, and a beauty she was. I was looking at the lady as well, a tight smile plastered on my face, how I wish she heard nothing inappropriate.
I felt Hebron's piercing gaze on me, an angry glare I'm assuming is directed toward me.
'' Your highness,your grace, good evening.'' the couple said in unison as they bowed their heads in recognition.
I smiled again, this time a genuine one,'' Good evening,'' I responded,'' how fortunate I must be, for I was looking for you.''
'' Me? How may I be of assistance to you, your highness?'' said the lady pleasantly.
I walked up to her and held her hand,'' Peaches!'' I cheerfully said. A cough sounded from behind me, must be the reaction I was aiming for.
'' Peaches?'' asked a puzzled Bridget.
'' Yes, and so much more. I doubt it's anything interesting for these gentlemen, would you like to finish our tour while we converse?'' I asked, anticipating a confirmation before we headed for the backyard.
As we toured the remaining parts of the estate, my companion explained in boring details the origin of every piece of furniture in our way, she spoke of the history of the land as well as its previous owners who had long ago died, of the people's source of income, of their habits, of their festivals and celebrations, and I nodded to every word, pretending like I did not know it prior to my visit.
The thing is, we in Tanery have excellent intel on them, and they do not know that. My father says it is wise to know and feign ignorance, so I'm doing just that. After a while, Lady Bridget was finally done speaking, so I took the opportunity to ask:"I would like to go see a clothing boutique, or maybe seek a seamstress. Are there any recommendations?"
" Oh yes! Yes of course there is! Leini is known for trade and we get amazing products, this time of the year is not the best for shopping but I know just the boutique for you!" she excitedly responded, looking like a child who stumbled upon a well of candy.
" Excellent!" I told her," When can we see it? My wardrobe choices are unsuitable for this weather." which was true, despite being warned of Esteria's bad weather I was still unprepared. Nasir had already visited the area, and he had told me of how cruel it can get, not to mention Hebron's complaining of the hot weather of Tanery, which was not that hot at all.
" We can send a word to the Boutique owner and she shall come see us soon, I recommend you only shop for the winter season for the spring is the time when the market is the most lively."
I nodded in agreement," Yes, that I am considering. However I would like to go visit her by myself, maybe take a look around the city?"
She looked a bit hesitant as she answered me," If that is your wish, then yes we shall. I have to warn you though, the air is very dry these days, which is not that important if you consider other dire circumstances that would prevent our trip but I…" she suddenly stopped, aware of her mumbling. Her face reddened, bringing attention to her cheeks, a colour contrasting the greens in her eyes. She glowed, red hair and perfect skin, the cold looks so good on her, and I bet she looks beautiful in everything she owns. She was the type of person who would make clothes stand out, a true rare beauty.
I did not mind her mumbling at all, so I inquired, encouraging more:" Is it? I thought the winter is a rainy season."
" N-no, no it is quite the opposite, summer is more humid, my husband says it's due to the location of the land."
" Ah geography, not my favourite subject in school." I responded with a smile.
That perked up her interest," I heard you attended the Academy of Tanery alongside his highness crown prince Alexander and his grace the duke. Is it true it's called that, the academy of Tanery?" she asked.
" Yes, it's weird is it not? I heard that the reason behind not giving it a name is because the founder wanted it to be so known, it would be called The Academy, no need for a name for it to be recognized. It worked, afterall people from all around the globe attended it." I told the Lady, smiling inwardly in pride.
" And is it true that even commoners attend? The crown prince was not expecting that level of interactions with commoners on a daily basis."
" It's a bit different in Tanery, nobles and commoners are not divided by social ranking like everywhere else. Being a noble is more like having a job, royals and those with ' titles' serve the people, the higher ups service the commoners, not the other way around. We still have few privileges when it comes to travelling, but education is all about equal opportunity," I concluded, happy to teach someone about my empire's costumes.
" I see. Now without further delay, would you like to head to the dining hall? We shall dine soon." she said as she gestured for me to walk ahead.
" I would love some supper. I had some snacks with sir Christoffer this afternoon. I have to say, your cook makes excellent sweets."
"I am very delighted to hear this, your highness. I will ensure they are delivered to you regularly throughout the day." responded a very content Bridget.
" That would be great, thank you."
" Do you mind me asking, which sir Christoffer have you spoken with?" she inquired.
" The prettier one." I said it and immediately regretted it. The Lady however laughed, acknowledging that indeed, Axel is very pretty.
" Oh yes, that one. I could not imagine his cousin having tea with a lady." she answered me, still laughing.
I pictured a big gruff Elijah holding a painted tea cup between his big hands and bursted out laughing, joining her now that I understand the joke.