The grand castle bustled with activities as everyone tried to round up their work. The scent of cakes and snacks filled the air. As expected, the big kitchen was the busiest place in the grand castle and half of the slaves were asked to help out there. The guests were also arriving today as Viktor was expected to return on the morrow.
Heidi and Rosie were asked to tend to the younger ladies that would also be arriving. As the guests arrived at the crane house, the sound of horse hooves and carriage wheels echoed throughout the courtyard. There was an unmistakable hint of excitement in the air.
Genevieve, Markus and the queen mother stood at the entrance to welcome the very important guests. Genevieve stood resplendent in her blue gown with a warm smile on her face. A facade she had mastered over the years. The queen mother stood graciously beside her with a small smile on her face.
Viscount Thomas dismounted his horse with a dramatic flourish, his dark eyes sweeping the courtyard before locking onto Genevieve. A charming smile spread across his face as he approached her. "Lady Genevieve, it's been far too long since I've had the pleasure of beholding your lovely countenance."
Genevieve's smile faltered for a moment before she recovered, her voice trembling slightly. "Viscount Thomas, it's...good to see you again."
The Viscount's smile grew wider as he took her hand, his lips brushing against her knuckles. "I've missed you dearly, my dear. Though I must say, I'm surprised you didn't extend an invitation to me personally."
Genevieve's thoughts seethed with resentment, but her smile remained fixed. "I'm afraid I was overwhelmed with preparations, Uncle."
Viscount Thomas's gaze shifted to Queen Mother Emilia, his smile never wavering. "Ah, but the gracious Queen Mother ensured I received an invitation. Thank you, Your Majesty."
Queen Mother Emilia laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "I knew my daughter-in-law might be too busy, Viscount. Welcome to the celebration."
As the Viscount's eyes landed on Markus, his smile took on a sly edge. "And the second prince, all grown up. I remember when you were just a babe in arms."
Markus bowed stiffly, his fists clenched at his sides. "Viscount Thomas, the pleasure is mine."
The Viscount's tone dripped with condescension. "I heard your...essence arrived. How delightful for your mother. Though, of course, your position remains unchanged – second prince, after all."
Markus's jaw clenched, but he maintained his composure. "Indeed, Viscount. This celebration honors the first prince"
"Countess Rachael!" the queen mother called on sighting the older lady get down from her carriage.
As Countess Rachael stepped down from her carriage, the warm sunlight danced across her elegant silver gown, highlighting the intricate embroidery. The servants swiftly attended to her luggage, their movements efficient and silent.
Queen Mother Emilia's face lit up with a radiant smile. "I'm so glad you could join us, Countess. Your presence is a gift."
Countess Rachael's laughter echoed through the courtyard, her voice like music. "How could I possibly miss Viktor's celebration? It's a momentous occasion."
Genevieve's curtsy was graceful, her blue gown rustling softly. "Countess Rachael, it's an honor to have you here."
The countess's eyes twinkled as she took Genevieve's hand. "Lady Genevieve, you look lovelier than ever. I trust you're in good health?"
As Genevieve smiled and nodded, the tension from Viscount Thomas's arrival seemed to dissipate, like mist evaporating in the morning sun.
Markus, standing nearby, caught the countess's attention. "Prince Markus, I almost didn't recognize you! You've grown into a handsome young man."
Markus's bow was charming, his smile disarming. "And you, Countess, remain an epitome of beauty and grace."
The countess's laughter was a joyous sound, her eyes sparkling with delight. "Since when did you learn to talk so sweetly, Prince Markus? You almost swept me off my feet!"
While they were yet talking, another carriage arrived.
Baron Michael stepped out looking splendid in his green coat and black pants. Two young ladies who happened to be his daughters stepped out. One was dressed in a purple gown and her blonde hair was styled beautifully. The other wore a beige gown with lots of flowery designs and embroidery. Their sea blue eyes wandered around the castle in delight.
"Baron Michael, it's always a pleasure to have you here" Markus said with a bow.
The Baron bowed back, "the pleasure is mine prince Markus"
"Father! Father!!" The castle is as large as you promised" the girl in the beige gown shouted while her sister followed behind her.
"Anna!" Baron Michael called hushing the younger girl and turned to face the Queen mother.
As Baron Michael bowed, he apologized, "Forgive her, Your Majesty. Lady Anna is still young and overflowing with enthusiasm."
Queen Mother Emilia smiled graciously. "Ah, Baron, your daughters are lovely. They will make beautiful wives one day."
Baron Michael beamed with pride. "This is Lady Anna," he said, gesturing to the girl in the beige gown, "and this is Lady Charlotte," he continued, nodding towards the girl in purple.
Markus stepped forward, his smile charming. "Welcome to the grand castle, my ladies." He took each of their hands, kissing their knuckles with grace.
Anna's eyes sparkled as she met Markus's gaze. "It's an honor to meet you, Prince Markus. You're even more handsome than the rumors say."
Charlotte, on the other hand, kept her eyes downcast, her fingers tracing the intricate designs on her gown. "It's... an... honor," she muttered softly.
As Anna approached, her eyes shining with excitement, Lady Genevieve smiled warmly. "Ah, Lady Anna, you're as lovely as a sunrise. I've heard so much about you."
Anna's face lit up. "I've always wanted to meet you, Lady Genevieve. You're even more beautiful than I imagined."
Viscount Thomas cleared his throat, his voice tinged with sarcasm. "Baron Michael, it seems you've raised a true social butterfly. I'm surprised she hasn't talked the ears off everyone here yet."
Baron Michael chuckled good-naturedly. "Ah, Viscount Thomas, you know as well as I that a lively spirit like Anna's is a gift. She brings joy to all those around her."
Anna, oblivious to the Viscount's teasing, continued to chat with Genevieve, asking her about her favorite books and hobbies. Genevieve responded patiently, happy to engage with the young girl.
As the guests continued to arrive, the courtyard became a whirlwind of color and conversation. Genevieve, standing beside the Queen Mother, watched with a warm smile as the young ladies giggled and chatted with prince Markus.
Viscount Thomas, however, seemed less than pleased. His eyes narrowed as he observed the scene, his gaze lingering on Markus with a hint of disapproval.
Baron Michael, oblivious to the Viscount's scrutiny, beamed with pride as he introduced his daughters to the other guests. Lady Anna's exuberance was infectious, drawing even the most reserved guests into conversation.
Meanwhile, Lady Charlotte clung to her father's arm, her eyes wide with wonder as she took in the grandeur of the castle.
As the last of the guests arrived, Queen Mother Emilia raised her hands, calling for attention. "Welcome, dear friends and family, to the celebration of Viktor's coming of age. Let us proceed to the grand hall for the feast. After which, the slaves would help you all to your quarters"
With that, the courtyard erupted into a flurry of movement, guests making their way towards the grand hall.