I longed to press Lady Rosalind for more details, but turning, I saw tears streaming down her face with such violence, she seemed on the verge of collapse. Knowing she needed rest, I helped her up quickly. "Mother, please, do not blame yourself. I understand your predicament, truly. Everything you did was for my sake, I know it in my heart. Now, go and rest. I shall take care of myself."
"Very well, my Crimson. I leave you," Lady Rosalind nodded, her voice thick with emotion, and moved towards the door. The maids waiting outside hurried to support her. I watched her retreating figure, my mind a whirlwind of chaotic thoughts. What secrets did the real Crimson Rose hold? I desperately wanted to unravel them.
However, I had gleaned a sliver of truth about my arrival here. Crimson Rose had undoubtedly consumed arsenic – the infamous "Crane's Crown" poison – and perished. My consciousness had simply… slipped into the vacant vessel. But how had I died? I was engrossed in a thrilling video game duel with my brother… had the excitement been too much? Did my heart simply stop? It seemed ludicrous.
I shook my head, dismissing the complex puzzle. The immediate concern was my future. If Lady Rosalind spoke true, significant trouble undoubtedly lay ahead.
Just then, Mrs. Chambers bustled in. Seeing me still nibbling pastries with no sign of starting the lace embroidery, she hurried over. "Milady! Why haven't you begun? When the time comes to return to the Palace, what will you present to His Majesty for his inspection?"
I popped another delicate pastry into my mouth and gave her a sidelong glance. "Very well, I shall begin presently. But first, could you find me a rather… spirited maid? Returning here to silence is dreary. Even embroidery becomes tedious without conversation."
"Milady, embroidery requires focus. Company might prove distracting," Mrs. Chambers cautioned. I feigned incomprehension. "Please, just fetch one. Without companionship, boredom breeds mistakes, surely you understand that, Mrs. Chambers?"
I smiled at her, a look that unnerved her. She acquiesced reluctantly. "As you wish, Milady. I shall summon Primrose immediately." She scurried out.