When Marchioness Nibeia didn't move away from Seraphina's side, a group began to form naturally around the two of them. The desire to be amongst the most influential people during the current tea party had brought all of them together. Their presence was a magnet, drawing others into their orbit.
Arjan was said to be the Marquis's wife someday, but still, she was never the real power at all. Arjan squeezed her hands tightly as the people around her had gradually fallen apart.
The isolation she felt was a stark reminder of her precarious position, her influence waning in the face of Seraphina's growing power.
...
Marchioness Nibeia's lively conversation made her forget all about the disturbance from earlier. The wives were laughing and sharing bits of information known only within their circle, their camaraderie palpable in the air.
