With a sense of exhilaration, Yohana proceeded to lay out her comprehensive strategy, unveiling the names of potential vendors she aimed to recruit, replacing the ones Queen Emma had endorsed. As the conversation unfurled, it became clear that Miss Rita was not just on board, but enthusiastically supportive.
Their collaboration blossomed as they delved into the minutiae of event planning, their ideas and insights intertwining like vines in a carefully cultivated garden. The sun's descent below the horizon marked the passage of time, yet Yohana's spirit remained unyielding.
With the moon high overhead and a plan solidified, Yohana made her farewell, departing Miss Rita's company. The palace's sprawling halls welcomed her back, her steps echoing with purpose—a purpose that, for the first time in a long while, felt within her grasp.
Yohana wasted no time, her purpose guiding her steps straight to Henrie's chamber. With Yohana's absence from dinner, Henrie also abstained. The word had also spread that Princess Elke had chosen solitude, her retreat echoing her recent confrontation with the queen.
As Yohana arrived at Henrie's chamber, a sense of urgency crackled in the air. Mr. Hermann's announcement served as the prelude to her entrance, and Henrie's figure emerged from within. The flicker of surprise in his eyes did not escape Yohana's notice.
"Is Thea not accompanying you today?" Henrie noted that Thea wasn't around.
A faint smile danced on Yohana's lips. "No, Henrie. I assigned her a task in the city, one that required her to operate independently and without drawing undue attention."
"May I know what task?" Henrie's inquiry flowed smoothly as he ushered Yohana into his chamber. A quick scan revealed the gown, still draped over the sofa as if held in a temporal loop.
Yohana's response was swift, "I sent her to meet an acquaintance who might be able to assist in finding performers and musicians for the charity ball."
The gown's lingering presence didn't escape Yohana's notice, its significance still unresolved. "Why is this gown still here? Hasn't it proven its worth as potential evidence?"
Henrie's response was laden with a mixture of disappointment and acceptance. "Unfortunately, it falls short in the eyes of my lawyer. The dress itself lacks any definitive link to the incident involving Eleanor."
The revelation sparked an unexpected reaction from Yohana. Her voice brimmed with a distinct enthusiasm as she held the dress aloft. "That's good news!"
Henrie's brows arched, his gaze fixed on Yohana. "What makes you say that?" The question hung in the air.
"Listen, Henrie, I believe I've stumbled upon something that could alter the course in our benefit!" Yohana's voice carried excitement as she shared the revelations of Miss Rita's testimony and Lady Felicia's presence by her side on that crucial night.
Regret tinged her words as she acknowledged her own oversight. "I do wish I had realized this sooner, Henrie. It might have spared you the effort of searching for the dress tirelessly."
Being confined in that powder room brought back a memory of her childhood, a chilling echo from her past when she had felt so powerless and trapped. It was as though the mere act of that door closing on her had transported her back to the vulnerable younger self.
Amid the resurgence of emotions, she had overlooked a significant clue.
"Runa, this is remarkable news! To have unearthed witnesses of that night is a true breakthrough. Do you think they would agree to testify in court?"
Henrie's reaction was a delightful mix of surprise and relief. His countenance lit up, and the weariness he had carried seemed to evaporate.
Yohana responded, "Miss Rita has willingly offered her help. As for Lady Felicia, I'm planning to approach her soon. Interestingly, our timing couldn't be better, as I have another matter to discuss with her."
"Do you want me to accompany you when meeting her?" Henrie offered.
"Thank you for your offer, Henrie. However, I can handle this on my own. You must have your hands full with other matters. It's getting late, and you should rest soon. Please excuse me. Oh, may I take the dress with me?" Yohana held the blue dress in her arms.
With Henrie's permission, she asked if there was a box available to conceal the dress. She wanted to avoid drawing unnecessary attention. Mr. Hermann quickly provided a suitably sized box for the dress.
Yohana headed toward her room, accompanied by a knight assigned by Henrie, who helped carry the box. Before long, Thea entered Yohana's chamber, holding a piece of paper in her hand.
There was writing on the paper:
"Your Highness, I am delighted to hear that you are safe and well within the palace, where you rightfully belong. Although circumstances prevent me from serving you up close, I am fully committed to assisting you in any way possible.
Please set your worries aside regarding the entertainment you seek. I have gathered a group of exceptional musicians, performers, and dancers who are more than willing to contribute their talents to your cause, free of charge.
With utmost respect,
Madam Geneviere"
***
Today, Yohana embarked on a solo visit to Lady Felicia. Thea had been entrusted with another task, leaving Yohana to navigate this meeting alone. As Yohana entered the courtyard of Lady Felicia's manor, she found the lady herself awaiting her arrival.
In contrast to the grand estates of the other prominent vendors, Lady Felicia's manor was notably smaller. Yet, Yohana felt an immediate sense of comfort here, thanks to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Every servant and maid displayed impeccable manners, offering respectful bows as they carried out their tasks.
Lady Felicia stepped forward as Yohana's carriage came to a halt, even extending a hand to assist her. The gesture was a testament to Lady Felicia's genuine character, a refreshing rarity in a society often obsessed with vainglory.
"Welcome, Lady Runa. It's a pleasure to have you visit my home," greeted Lady Felicia, leading Yohana into her abode with a warm exchange of casual chit-chat.
Once inside a cozy parlor within the manor, Lady Felicia wasted no time in offering a comforting cup of tea. She directed Yohana to a seat bathed in sunlight pouring through a glass window, creating an inviting ambiance.
Curious about Lady Felicia's restaurant venture, Yohana politely inquired, "How is the progress of your eating house, Lady Felicia?"
A spark of excitement danced in Lady Felicia's eyes as she shared her journey, "Landgrave Simon and I scouted a place in the town square for the eating house. The location is stunning, and we've leased it for a year. If the business thrives, we might even consider purchasing the building."
Observing Lady Felicia's enthusiasm, Yohana was relieved to see the uncertainties she showed that night fade away. The preparations for her eating house's opening had evidently immersed her, leaving no room for self-doubt.
As the conversation flowed, Yohana dug deeper, asking, "Have you finalized the menus? Establishing the culinary foundation is crucial for the success of your endeavor."
Lady Felicia's eyes lit up even more, and she confessed with a hint of shyness, "Yes, in fact, anticipating your visit, I've prepared an array of menus for you to sample. Only if you're interested, of course. No pressure."
Yohana's response was immediate and keen, "I would be delighted to try them!"