Fermenting Trouble

Marquis Liam was still conversing with Prince Constantine over the sudden earth shake and windstorm, when he realized that he had yet to see Felicia and Alexander exit the church. 

Have they already left? Their family carriage is still here and the Duke appears to be looking for them.

Most of the attendees had already left out of fright. It was most unusual. The natural disturbance had only taken place inside the church. The ones outside barely felt it. They only realized something was wrong when people ran out in fear. Some sporting bruises from being tossed to the ground or up against the walls.

Liam had to leave as well since his father would be angered if he was forced to wait for him. Bidding farewell to Constantine, he jogged off to his ride.

Duke Roelle was furious. Where were Alex and Felicia? How dare they keep him waiting? Tyren and Helena were already seated inside, but there was no sight of his blood children. One of his coachmen rushed over after exiting the church.

"Well?!" The Duke snapped, impatiently.

"I apologize, your grace but I was not able to locate them. They must have gone to a more secluded location or already left the Cathedral." The man stated with his head down.

"How could they have possibly left when our carriage is still here? They must still be inside!" The Duke growled. "Service has ended, they should know better than to dally!"

Tyren and Helena immediately came to his aid, seeing an opportunity to badmouth Felicia.

"Father, I think Alex took Felicia to go explore. After all, this is her first time coming to the holy church. Sister may not care about punctuality as she is busy exploring." Helena stated, gently.

"Indeed." Tyren added. "Felicia is probably forcing Alex to stay with her. I'm certain he knows we must depart, but given how much Felicia clings to him he's no doubt forgotten about us waiting here."

She paused before continuing with her insinuations. "I think we should take our leave, darling. I know you have other appointments and so do I. Helena too has to finish the book her teacher gave her before he returns tomorrow."

"We can send another carriage to get them once we return home, my dear. They've kept us waiting long enough." Tyren completed.

The Duke signed. "Very well. Let's go."

The entire ride back both mother and daughter were smiling happily. Felicia was going to get reprimanded for sure. Not only was she an inconsiderate brat who did not respect her father's time, or the schedules of Tyren and Helena; but now she was also leading Alex astray!

She won't be able to use the excuse that she was just spending time with her brother because she can easily do that at home. Also, exploring the church doesn't take so long. It's one circular route. This was deliberate inconsideration!

Being punctual is an integral part of etiquette. Every noble lady must have it. And that bitch just proved herself otherwise!

Helena was bouncing with excitement before she remembered something. "Mother, what caused that windstorm and earth shake earlier?"

Tyren stroked her daughter's hair. "I don't know, my love. Thankfully, we did not get hurt."

Helena sat up straighter. "That's because I'm a Saintess. I brought us good luck!"

Tyren laughed. "Indeed, my love. You are a blessing to us all."