Rahua's POV
Today I will start my etiquette lessons. Damion wants to announce our engagement to everyone, for that I will learn how to behave in the High society.
I am glad Lady Vilahna is the one who is going to help me navigate with all the situations.
I have been the castle the past few weeks, I can't help but to wonder how is my family doing. I really miss them.
When I finish the lessons I will ask to be taken to my family I really want to see them.
As I sat down with Lady Vilahna, ready to begin my etiquette lessons, I felt nervous I was sure if would be able to remember every little thing about, the nobility behaviour.
" Vilahna," I said softly, interrupting our lesson preparation, "I have something I need to ask of you."
She looked up at me with concern in her eyes. "Of course, Rahua. What is it?"
"I please don't go easy on me, I have the feeling that I will need a lot of work, there's so many hidden clues that I am not familiar with, I really want to proof to myself that I can do this." I confessed, my voice filled with determination. " I don't want anyone to find fault with Damion because of my strange behaviour."
Lady Vilahna seemed to be lost in a thought, she gave me a comforting gaze. "I understand, Rahua. But keep in mind, that strange behaviour was what attracted Prince Damion to you, it makes you unique in his eyes, even if I teach you how to navigate in the nobility, you shouldn't lose that essence that makes you, 'You'. In his eyes you are already perfect."
Relief flooded through me as I realized that Lady Vilahna was not only my teacher but also a trusted friend, her words hit a spot for me, that made my eyes teary. "Thank you, Vilahna, for your support. It means the world to me."
She smiled warmly, placing a hand on mine. "Of course, Rahua."
I was feeling excited and determinated, I focused on our etiquette lessons. Lady Vilahna guided me through the intricacies of proper behavior and refined speech, teaching me to navigate through the world of nobility.
There was rules I had to remember all the time and live by it.
In theory the true meaning of etiquette is always to show respect and kindness to everyone around you.
But that was laced in a world where power was the currency, so it inevitably to not to be too kind, as to not be perceived as a fool.
"Rules are quite simple," Lady Vilahna says.
"The Queen must hold her head high."
"Hold your silverware correctly. " This was harder than I thought it would be. I feel like I have been eating with the wrong hand all my life.
"Properly use a napkin to wipe your mouth. No sleeves!" Lady Vilahna objects.
"Chew with your mouth closed. As if you are keeping a secret."
" No elbows on the table … ever!" I felt exhausted, I had to think of a thousands not do's at same time, just while eating. I used to live alone, there was not much proper etiquette I had to hold on to, and at Stronghold house, our only concern is to get food on the table everyday.
"Never interrupt someone of higher status when they are speaking to someone else."
"Never raise your voice or speak out of turn," she continued, "Always wait for your turn to speak and maintain a polite tone."
I nodded, trying my best to absorb all the information. It was overwhelming, but I was determined to learn.
"Never comment on someone's appearance unless it's to say something nice." I think that's why, people from Nobel houses always use some sneaky retorts and comments about someone else's appearance.
"Always write a thank you letter."
"You must always help someone in need, particularly if they are less able than you are." In theory, I guess because it depends on the person.
"Introduce yourself and others properly." She said showing me how to do it properly.
"Remember to curtsy or bow when greeting someone of higher status," Lady Vilahna added.
"Make eye contact when speaking to another person."
"Never speak ill of anyone behind their back." Lady Vilahna added, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive reputation.
I nodded, taking in all the rules and guidelines that Lady Vilahna was teaching me. It was a lot to remember my head was already spinning.
Throughout the lessons, Lady Vilahna also shared anecdotes and stories from her own experiences in the High society. It was fascinating to hear about the intricacies and politics that governed their world.
As the days went on, I began to feel more comfortable and confident in my abilities. Lady Vilahna's patient guidance and encouragement played a significant role in my progress.
Finally, after weeks of intensive lessons, I felt ready to put my knowledge into practice.
In the last few weeks I have been studying hard to become worthy of the new status.
I hadn't seen Damion, he had been busy putting in motion the project. They started already to grow crops. He must be so excited.
I make my way back to my chambers, as I walk through the corridor with tapestries I feel again a pull, this time is different, I don't feel as in daze as the last time, but the pull is still strong, is like so kind of curiosity or desire.
I feel my body move, I know I am the taking the step towards. Once again, the images are different. This time I can see it clearly.
As I stepped into the vision, I found myself standing in the same corridor but somehow, it looked different. The tapestry shows a couple that seems to be in love.
The sound of laughter filled the air as I walk down the hall, and my heart was beating fast. Was I having a vivid dream?
I try to speak, to call for someone, but nothing came out, my voice was as if muted.
I continued to walk, the laughter growing louder and more spirited with each step. I couldn't help but be drawn towards it, feeling a sense of familiarity and warmth.
As I turned a corner, I saw a young woman with brown hair and a radiant smile. She was talking with a young man, both of them laughing and chatting animatedly. I knew in my heart immediately who she was, even though it was the first time I had seen her.
Morgana!