𓍢ִ໋🌷 ˖◛⁺˖͙

The glass greenhouse in the East Annex of the Imperial Palace was a space dominated not by the tranquility of nature, but by a meticulously orchestrated silence.

Aged ivy vines were intricately wound like arabesque patterns around the high-soaring iron frames, and the drowsy afternoon sunlight filtered through the glass, scattering brilliant rainbow shadows across the tables.

Between vases where red roses and pure white lilies were arranged in noble poses, exquisitely crafted silver teacups shimmered softly, catching the slanting sunlight.

⁽ ¨¨¨⁾𖠚 ☕︎

About twenty noble ladies were seated in small groups, each according to their family's reputation and status. Beyond mere splendor, the stiffened backs, restrained gestures, the rustle of silk dresses, the whispers exchanged secretly behind feather fans, the careful angle of fingers holding teacups, and even the slight friction of spoons against porcelain were all dry calculations disguised as elegance—an invisible social battlefield.

❝ By any chance, have you heard the news, my Lady? ❞

Lady Emily of the House of Parks, seated by the window, began secretly, lightly covering her mouth with a silk fan.

❝ The reason why that lofty heir of Duke Hartford didn't ask anyone for a dance at the last banquet and headed straight for the library instead. ❞

The hands holding teacups paused all at once, and Lady Olivia of the House of Fontaine, seated at the head, elegantly set down her cup with a cool smile.

❝ If it concerns the Duke's rudeness, isn't that a rumor that has already lost its freshness, Lady Emily? ❞

​❝ The essence of the story lies in what happened after, Lady Olivia. ❞

Emily leaned forward slightly and lowered her voice.

​❝ They say what was held in the Duke's hand wasn't the Imperial silk glove, but a crude letter stamped with the crest of a family from the fringes. ❞

In an instant, feather fans fluttered like butterflies along with small gasps. It was the most secret and elegant pastime within this greenhouse, judging others behind the mask of polite secrecy.