Page 21 of The Fifth Life of Alicia
The Ambroses—the empire’s geniuses. The Marquess was the Emperor’s right hand and most trusted aide, and that had been the case for generation after generation, since the founding of the Sada Empire four hundred years ago. The Marchioness had taught at the magic academy before having children, and now they were older, she often took on private students.
Lady Sasha was tall, with chestnut brown hair, hazel eyes, and an aura that gave off the feeling that she was the most knowledgeable teddy bear in the world.
“Next to Lady Vivian is Lady Blair, the daughter of Marquess Rainforth.”
The second sword of the empire. Alongside House Vermillion, the Rainforths produced the best knights. The only sword masters capable of using a sword aura in history came from either the royal family, the Vermillions, or the Rainforths.
There were only three known sword masters right now. My father, Marquess Rainforth, and Grand Duke Kalon Stein.
Lady Blair had one vibe, and that was badass. Her jet-black hair was styled into a ponytail that had simple adornments, and her dress fit her aura perfectly. It was a light, simple dress that gave me the feeling that she could cut down an army in it if she felt so inclined.
“Lady Elisa Sayles has arrived!” the butler announced.
“Oh, gosh, I’m not late, am I? I’m so sorry, Lady Georgina, one of the horses was playing up and we were delayed as we changed him out.” Lady Elisa clasped her hands to her stomach, panic flushing her cheeks.
Lady Georgina laughed. “Of course not! We haven’t even poured the tea yet.”
“Oh, thank goodness.” She flattened one of her hands against her chest, and I caught the tremble of her fingers.
She was terrified.
“Let me introduce you to everyone, Lady Elisa.” Lady Georgina repeated the same thing as she just had to me. “Everyone, this is Lady Elisa, the recently adopted daughter of Count Sayles.”
That’s why she was so scared.
In this society, blood was everything, and she would be looked down on by some for not being their biological child.
I didn’t care, of course. Sadly, that wouldn’t be the case for everyone.
“Her mother was Count Sayles’ younger sister, but she sadly passed recently, so the Count and Countess adopted her into their household just before she turned eighteen.” Lady Georgina squeezed Lady Elisa’s hand. “She recently moved to the capital from the southern coast, and the upcoming spring banquet and ball will be her debut into high society. I thought I should invite her today so that we might all help her.”
“Oh, absolutely,” Lady Sasha said, nodding her head. “I’m so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing, Lady Elisa, and I’m sure I speak for us all when I say that.”
We all murmured our assent.
“Thank you.” She bowed her head. “My aunt and uncle have been extremely kind to me, and I’m very grateful for them.”
Lady Georgina smiled. “Your seat is just there at the end of the table, Lady Elisa.”
She sat down as Lady Georgina motioned for the tea to be brought in.
“Now, I think that’s everyone!” She clapped her hands. “This is only my third time hosting a tea party, so I do hope you’ll all excuse any missteps. Today’s tea is a blend from Stein—the rose is a rare kind that only blooms in the Stein mountains during autumn, and it was a gift from the Grand Duke to my father after he helped handle a monster outbreak there a few weeks ago. It wasn’t to Father’s taste, but I enjoyed it, so he happily handed it over to me. I do hope you’ll find it to your liking.”
Stein.
Stein.
Stein.
I couldn’t escape the damn place.
“Lady Sophia Vermillion has arrived!” The butler’s voice boomed through the greenhouse.
Lady Georgina stilled, and all of us turned our eyes in the direction of the doorway. Sophia scuttled in, clutching tightly at her skirts.
“I’m so sorry I’m late. I think Mother took the main carriage so I—” Sophia froze when she saw me. “Alicia?”
“Oh, goodness, Sophia!” I pressed my hand to my chest, widening my eyes in mock surprise. “I’m so sorry, but I have the main carriage with me. I had no idea you were coming, or we could have travelled here together.”
