A Carriage

Astelle comforted her mother, assuring her that she had plans in place and wouldn't tolerate mistreatment from the king. Countess Emma, though still unconvinced, chose not to press the matter further.

The following day, an opulent and expensive carriage arrived at the Balstead estate, drawing the attention of both commoners and nobles.

"Which lucky star did the Count of Balstead catch?"

"Why is there such a luxurious carriage in Balstead?"

"The crest on the carriage looks familiar. It resembles the Van Dierre family's crest."

"Van Dierre? Which Van Dierre are we talking about? The only family with that name resides in Renox. That's the family of the king's mother."

"The Van Dierre is one of the most powerful families in Renox. Why would they bring a carriage here?"

As the curious onlookers speculated, the Balstead family reveled in joy. Brianne, Regina, and Astelle couldn't contain their happiness. Vincent and Edwin marveled at the carriage's magnificence and intricate designs, attempting to conceal their excitement but failing. The count maintained a stoic expression but even he marvelled at the sight of the carriage, while the countess gave the brightest smile she had.

Lucia, Andrea's personal maid, gracefully stepped out of the carriage and approached the Balstead family. While she anticipated a more composed reaction from them, their expressions revealed a sense of awe and unfamiliarity with such opulence. Lucia sighed inwardly, contemplating the idea that the future queen would come from this family.

Despite her disappointment, one family member caught Lucia's attention. Among the reactions, there was only one person who stood out. No visible response to the grand carriage. Astelle's demeanor remained unreadable, offering no clues as to whether they were pleased or displeased.

Lucia walked towards the family in a graceful manner.

"Greetings" she said with a bow. Though she was the servant of the queen's mother, one of the most respected one at that, status-wise she was beneath them.

All members of the family responded.

"I'm here to take Lady Astelle to Renox for the feast." Lucia said directly as her eyes surveyed the girls in front of her.

Her eyes fell on Astelle and for a brief moment,Lucia was stunned. Such an imposing aura that was laced with grace along with a beautiful face and the perfect stature was indeed breathtaking.

'I hope she's the one' Lucia prayed in her heart. It would be too disappointing if the future queen was among Brianne, Regina and Adrianne who couldn't even stand properly due to excitement.

Lucia approached the Balstead family with grace, offering a polite greeting and a bow. Despite being the servant of the king's mother, she acknowledged the difference in status, yet her presence exuded a certain respect.

"I'm here to take Lady Astelle to Renox for the feast," Lucia declared directly, her eyes scanning the girls before her. When her gaze settled on Astelle, a moment of awe overcame her. Astelle emanated an imposing aura, blending grace with a beautiful countenance and a perfect stature.