' I hope she's the one,' Lucia silently prayed, acknowledging that it would be disappointing if the future queen was among Brianne, Regina or Adrianne who couldn't even stand properly due to excitement.
Lucia couldn't help but recall rumors she had heard about the noble ladies of Grenwade. Whispers suggested that they lacked nobility in their actions, often attributed to their inability to afford quality tutors for their daughters, impacting their grace and manners.
Astelle confidently stepped forward, meeting Lucia's gaze directly for a brief moment. A wave of shock ran through Lucia's spine, taken aback by the powerful aura emanating from Astelle. It felt as if she stood before a king or someone of great significance.
Astelle, however, made no gesture of submission, maintaining her calm gaze. She had already perceived the displeasure on Lucia's face, even beneath the attempt to hide it with a polite smile.
Despite the unconfirmed status of King Arien and Lady Astelle's relationship, Lucia chose to treat Astelle with the courtesy befitting any noble lady. She complimented Astelle's looks and demeanor, earning nods of pride from the count and countess. The once stoic count now sported a bright smile, even laughing heartily upon hearing the praises. The rest of the family mirrored his joy.
Astelle, however, remained immune to the flattery, a fact that greatly satisfied Lucia. Recognizing that as a potential queen, Astelle couldn't afford to be entangled in a web of praises, Lucia continued to extend her courtesy and attention.
"Would you like to come in for tea?" Countess Emma asked.
"No...no thank you" Lucia politely declined. She was afraid of ruining her taste buds.
" The journey to Renox is a far so it would be better if we left early" Lucia said.
She instructed the servants who were part of the entourage to carry Astelle's belongings into the carriage. After bidding her family farewell, Astelle left along with Edna.
Inside the lavishly decorated and spacious carriage, Astelle gazed out of the window, showing little interest in admiring the luxurious surroundings.
"Would you care for some snacks?" Lucia offered.
Astelle turned her attention to the array of small snacks displayed on different trays. Some were familiar, while others were entirely new to her.
"Are these all delicacies of Renox?" Astelle inquired as she picked a hexagram-shaped snack from the tray.
"No..not all of them. These are from Gorien and Revander," Lucia explained, pointing to the respective delicacies.
Astelle gracefully enjoyed the snacks while Edna requested refreshing drinks unfamiliar to her. Taking advantage of the moment, Lucia seized the opportunity to educate Astelle on the various delicacies of Renox, initiating her first lesson.
Astelle listened attentively, engaging in the lesson by asking questions and showing a genuine interest in learning about the culinary culture of Renox.
Despite the long and tiring journey, Astelle's eyes lit up upon arriving at Renox. The sight of the bustling capital, filled with people and magnificent buildings, was a stark contrast to the quieter streets of Grenwade.