As they approached the restaurant, Emilia felt a pang of nostalgia upon recognizing the familiar entrance. This was the very place where she and Alistair had once shared an intimate dinner away from the prying eyes of the palace, a memory that lingered with unexpected warmth.
Today, however, they entered through the main door rather than discreetly, their presence formal, official. She glanced up, now noticing the sign bearing the name of the establishment, House of Luna, something she hadn't paid attention to before but knew she would never forget after this visit.
They were greeted by a young attendant, and Emilia quietly mentioned their purpose, to meet Lady Marguerite. Within moments, the woman herself appeared, her tranquil demeanor gracing the room. Standing beside her was Lady Seraphine, whose face lit up at the sight of Emilia and Alistair.
"Your Highness, Your Grace," Lady Marguerite greeted, dipping her head gracefully. Her voice was soft, yet commanding, each word carefully measured, leaving Emilia with the sense that Lady Marguerite seldom said more than she meant to.
"Your presence is a true pleasure," Lady Seraphine added, her smile broad and genuine. "And what an honor to receive a visit from the Crown Princess and Crown Prince."
Emilia smiled, "Thank you, Lady Marguerite. Lady Seraphine. The pleasure is ours."
Lady Marguerite gestured with a slight nod. "Shall we continue this conversation in my office? It would allow for more privacy."
They followed Lady Marguerite down a hallway decorated in warm, inviting colors, each step resonating with quiet elegance. Upon reaching her office, Lady Marguerite opened the door and ushered them in. The room was intimate yet refined, with a small collection of books lining one wall and a vase of fresh flowers perched atop a modest wooden desk.
Once seated, Lady Marguerite folded her hands gracefully in her lap, her calm gaze moving between Emilia and Alistair. Lady Seraphine leaned forward, visibly intrigued, her expression a blend of curiosity and excitement.
Emilia handed over the invitation with a slight, formal bow. "We have come on behalf of the Queen to extend an invitation to you both, Lady Marguerite and Lady Seraphine, for Her Majesty's upcoming birthday celebration."
Lady Marguerite accepted the invitation with a gentle smile, her fingertips lightly brushing over the envelope as if savoring its significance. "It is an honor," she said softly, her voice as serene as ever. "We would be delighted to attend."
Lady Seraphine's eyes sparkled as she looked from the invitation to Emilia, "It's been some time since we've had the pleasure of such a grand event." She turned to Alistair. "And I hope, Your Highness, you'll be leading us in the first dance."
Alistair chuckled softly, inclining his head. "I shall do my best not to disappoint, Lady Seraphine. Though I suspect the Queen will expect nothing less."
Lady Marguerite smiled gently at the exchange, her gaze returning to Emilia. "Her Majesty's birthday is a significant occasion," she said, her tone thoughtful. "And I am humbled by the invitation. Tell me, Your Highness, is there anything special Her Majesty would wish for this year?"
With careful words, Emilia responded, "The Queen treasures simplicity and sincerity. She values genuine relationships above all else." Her voice softened as she added, "While it may appear as a grand celebration, it is ultimately a day for her to feel surrounded by those who hold her in respect and admiration.
Lady Marguerite's serene expression remained unchanged, but there was a flicker of understanding in her eyes. "A beautiful sentiment, Your Highness. We will be sure to honor her wishes with all due respect."
Emilia took a quiet breath, readying herself to share the Queen's request. "Her Majesty will not be accepting gifts this year." She paused, meeting each of their gazes. "Instead, the Queen would be most touched if you could each write her a handwritten letter, one that shares your sincerest congratulations and gratitude."
Lady Marguerite's composed expression remained calm, though a faint sparkle of interest softened her gaze. "A handwritten letter…" she murmured, almost to herself, as if turning the idea over in her mind. "How very thoughtful of Her Majesty. It speaks to her desire for genuine connection."
Lady Seraphine leaned forward, "That's so personal and meaningful. I can already picture how beautiful it will be to write her a letter from the heart." Her smile widened as she looked at Emilia. "What a lovely request. The Queen truly is remarkable."
Emilia smiled, pleased with their reactions. "Yes, she is," she agreed softly. "She wants this day to be about shared memories and heartfelt expressions rather than material gifts. I believe a letter will mean far more to her than any present could."
Lady Marguerite inclined her head thoughtfully, her tranquil gaze never wavering. "A letter, then," she said, her voice almost reverent. "One that captures our respect and appreciation for her Majesty. She will have it, Your Highness. I will see to it that the words come from the heart."
Emilia nodded, touched by Lady Marguerite's sincerity. "Thank you, Lady Marguerite. I know the Queen will cherish that."
Alistair observed the exchange quietly, a small smile playing on his lips as he watched Emilia. He could see the warmth and respect in her voice as she conveyed the Queen's wish, and it deepened his admiration for her.
Lady Marguerite tilted her head slightly, a hint of curiosity in her eyes. "Your Highness," she said to Emilia, her tone as gentle as ever, "may I ask, was it you who suggested this idea to the Queen?"
Emilia hesitated briefly, caught off guard by the question, before nodding. "In a way," she admitted, choosing her words carefully. "I merely shared with Her Majesty that such a gesture would resonate deeply, especially among those who have served her loyally."
Lady Marguerite's smile softened further. "Then, Your Highness, you've shown a keen understanding of the Queen's heart. It's a beautiful sentiment, and it is clear she holds you in high regard."
Emilia felt a warmth spread through her, both from Lady Marguerite's kind words and from the thought that her suggestion had been embraced. "Thank you, Lady Marguerite," she replied. "I only hope to serve her Majesty with the same dedication she has shown to us all."
After a moment, Lady Marguerite's calm expression shifted to one of subtle encouragement. "Your Highness, if I may, there is a hunting tomorrow, one that many esteemed figures from the capital will attend."
Her tone was gentle, almost coaxing. "It might be an ideal opportunity for you to appear among them, especially with the Queen's birthday celebration approaching. A personal invitation from you would undoubtedly be most meaningful."
Emilia paused, absorbing the suggestion. She hadn't made a public appearance in some time, her recent duties had largely kept her occupied within palace walls. The idea of facing a public audience after such a hiatus brought an unexpected flutter of apprehension.
Still, she recognized the wisdom in Lady Marguerite's words, understanding the impact it might have on the Queen's reputation and, in turn, on her own standing.
"You make a compelling point, Lady Marguerite," Emilia said after a thoughtful silence, her gaze steady.
"I hadn't considered using the event to extend the Queen's invitations personally. It would certainly make the gesture feel more genuine." She allowed herself a small smile, nodding as she made her decision. "I believe I'll join you, then."
A pleased smile spread across Lady Marguerite's serene face. "Wonderful, Your Highness. It will be a delight to have you there." She reached for a small piece of parchment on her desk and scribbled down a few details, then handed it to Emilia. "This is the location and time. The hunting is set to begin at dawn, but the gathering will continue throughout the day. Many prominent individuals will be present. I believe your appearance will be well-received."
Emilia took the note, her fingers grazing over the parchment as she studied the details Lady Marguerite had provided. "Thank you, Lady Marguerite," she said earnestly. "And thank you for suggesting this opportunity."
Lady Marguerite inclined her head, her expression one of gentle encouragement. "It is my pleasure, Your Highness. And I am certain the capital's people would be thrilled to see you. The Queen's birthday is a time for celebration, and your presence will remind them of the strength and unity of the royal family."
Emilia nodded, taking the words to heart. The reminder of her role and the responsibility it carried settled a new resolve within her. "Then I shall do my best to fulfill that purpose," she said, her voice firm.
Lady Marguerite's eyes gleamed with approval, and she gave Emilia a warm smile. "You already have, Your Highness, just by deciding to attend."
Lady Seraphine, who had been listening quietly, chimed in, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "I think it will be marvelous, Your Highness. Imagine the effect of your presence on everyone there."
Emilia chuckled softly, feeling a bit of her earlier nerves ease. "Thank you, Lady Seraphine. I shall keep that in mind as I prepare," she replied, her voice touched with a hint of warmth.
As Emilia and Alistair rose from their seats, Lady Marguerite's voice interrupted their movement with a gentle suggestion, her tone warm but persuasive.
"Since you've taken the time to visit us here, why not stay a bit longer to enjoy the evening's performance?" Lady Marguerite offered, her eyes twinkling with an inviting smile. "Tonight, we're hosting a very rare and special artist, a talent seldom seen in the capital. It would be an honor to have you both join us."
Emilia opened her mouth to politely decline, her mind already occupied with the responsibilities awaiting her at the palace. But before she could answer, Alistair's hand touched her arm gently, and he spoke before she could form her refusal.
"It would be a shame to miss such an opportunity, especially after Lady Marguerite's gracious invitation," he said, his gaze steady on Emilia. He lifted her hand in his, his touch unexpectedly warm and reassuring. "And I think it's a perfect chance for you to unwind, if only for a while."
Emilia looked up at him, taken aback by his care. She hesitated, glancing back at Lady Marguerite and Lady Seraphine, who both watched her with quiet encouragement. For a moment, she found herself unable to argue.
"Very well," she said finally, relenting with a soft sigh. "If you truly believe it would be rude to decline, then I shall stay."
A smile broke across Alistair's face, a rare expression of satisfaction that softened his usual composed demeanor. He gave her hand a gentle squeeze, silently communicating his appreciation.
"Thank you, Lady Marguerite. We'd be delighted to join you," he said with a polite nod to their host.
***