The Villianess story: A 100 ways to kill your husband
Chapter 108: Tea party

Chapter 108: Tea party

The room was aromatic, filled with soft pollen from exotic plants, making it seem like it was perfumed by the best roses. Despite being in winter, when the land lost its vibrant colours to an endless stretch of white snow, the greenhouse still has its lustre.

It was filled with vines and exotic flowers and fruits. Making it a colourful set-up. Except for the Wall where the door was located, every other boundary, including the roof of the greenhouse, was made from glass panels, letting the soft glow of the sun rays in, making it warm and cosy.

A lovely tea party was set up inside. A table with delicate cups and saucers was surrounded by soft cushions and colourful pillows.

Vines and flowers wrapped around the chairs and table, making it feel like a magical garden.

In the middle was a fountain; it was amazing how, despite the limitations of technology, they were able to channel the clear water up there. The atmosphere was harmonious and lively with soft classical music being played in the background.

Snacks had already been served, but the tea wasn’t served yet. This tea party was a traditional event held to invite a new member to the royal harem. It was held to show the queen welcomes you in good fate

After Callista arrived, whispers were going around about what she was doing there. She wasn’t a foreign princess nor was she a member of the royal family. Astrid’s eyes drawled from Abrielle to Callista; her gaze was neutral.

Abrielle wondered if Astrid still had a crush on Cedric after being married for at least 6 years now and was a mother of two. She was wedded to a duke heir who held one of the biggest military powers in Darconia. Her husband was also general and a rather charming man from what Hazel wrote in the official backstory.

Despite everything, their marriage lacked love as it was an arranged one that never bloomed. That was how Hazel envisioned it, but she had no idea that there was an unknown backstory that Astrid once had a forbidden crush on Cedric and also related to Cedric’s mask.

Callista ignored the murmurs and took her seat. To be honest, being the female lead had its advantages. Callista shone wherever she entered.

"Ladies, may I have your attention," the queen declared, drawing everyone’s attention to her.

"Today, we are gathered here not just to chit-chat about the latest fashion items or tea. Although we all know that fine lace is indeed trendy now that isn’t the goal today. We are here to officially welcome Abrielle Nightshade, the daughter of the Vesper duchy, now the wife of Cedric, to the Von Drakkar family." Eleanor said with a soft tone. Her every word carries weight and respect.

There was a round of applause in the room; the concubines and the princesses all clapped at their hands in respect for the queen’s words.

"That’s not all. We also have a newcomer that will be around for a while, Callista Starlight, the beautiful priestess of the Starlight Cove." Eleanor invited, and as expected, there was not a single clap, which made the queen nervously laugh.

But Eleanor was not a complete saint to invite someone she doesn’t like without even intention. She wanted to humiliate Callista, who blindly came, not knowing what might be her fate.

Callista bowed her head while playing with her hand. "I know you might be wary of the priestess but I was assured she is a sweet person and would be directly under my protection." Eleanor chimed with a soft smile acting like she was caring. If not for what happened at the victory banquet, Abrielle would have considered helping Callista, but she was presently not fond of her.

"I wonder what she has done all those years while being a slave or what she offered to be rescued by brother Cedric." Astrid chirped in insinuating that Callista was a whore. "I was serving in the temple and Lucian recognized my talent." Callista defended herself.

"You are indeed talented from the way you carry yourself." Princess Ophelia, the eldest daughter of Marinette, who was 18 years old, chimed. Ophelia was a beautiful brunette with Hazel eyes just like her mother. She was hinting at the same thing as Astrid.

"I don’t mean it in that way," Callista muttered, grabbing her arm that was shaking. "That’s enough, Astrid and Ophelia. You are a princess, so act like one." Eleanore cautioned the girls.

"What do you think of Callista, Abrielle?" Astrid boldly asked, putting Abrielle in a tough spot. Abrielle sat up, her eyes trailing from Astrid to Callista. "I think she is a talented priestess and I also want to genuinely apologize for what happened during the victory banquet," Abrielle answered righteously. Callista and every other person were stunned that Abrielle willingly gave a public apology.

"No, there is no need to apologize, Your Highness. I was the one who wore the same dress as you. I am sorry for the fact my apology might have overwhelmed you." Callista quickly blurted, seemingly scared. Abrielle just smiled sweetly at her.

"That’s beautiful; now that’s aside, to welcome Abrielle to her new home, she performs the ceremonial tea pouring." Eleanore declared beckoning the maids to bring forward the tea. From the kettle, the tea was very aromatic, made from the richest leaves and petals.

"This is an exotic tea I am willing to share. It is indigenous to Heliosia and is good for increasing one’s magic vitality and to make the skin more supple." Eleanore explained as the Kettle and tea set was presented to Abrielle.

Abrielle slowly rose on her feet, then delicately took the kettle containing the tea and poured it into an intricate tea cup lined with jewels. She carried the cup walking and turned in the Queen’s direction with a dazzling smile.

"Your majesty. I hope you don’t mind but in the holy land of Vesper. We have a tradition that before the daughter-in-law serves tea to her mother-in-law, the maid that prepared the tea is meant to drink it. Unfortunately, there is only this fine set. I hope you won’t be offended by a maid drinking from it." Abrielle explained, making Eleanore frown.

"Why should I share my tea with a maid?" The queen asked and Abrielle smiled.

"I could not help but notice that the maid’s palms are sweaty, which is suspicious. Why is she nervous unless the tea is poisoned?" Abrielle answered and the room fell silent. Her eyes quietly darted around the room noticing everyone’s expression as her brows knotted.

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