CHAPTER 24
PEAS IN A POD
Lunch today is fine dining and blissful peace.
How odd.
I passed right by Sól and Nott's table, but they didn't even look up. What's up with that? I had even mentally prepared myself.
But if I'm being completely honest, I didn't think Sól and Nott would've spoken to me during school in the first place. After all, the Kindred aristocracy are known to be exclusionary in who they keep company with. Not to mention, I didn't think we were that close to begin with.
It's just that... Nott kept speaking to me so easily, that I assumed they would continue to do so.
Them blatantly ignoring me now feels weird.
Perhaps, I’m overthinking things… But…
Plucking up my courage, I excuse myself from my ragtag group of friends. Hostile glares immediately flash towards me as my approach nears the Kindred side of the dining hall.
“Good afternoon, Prince Sól, Prince Nott.”
Sól nods his head once as way of recognition, which is his usual reply. But, Nott doesn’t even bother acknowledging my presence.
So, I wasn’t overthinking things… I’m quite perplexed to say the least. He even went so far as to call me a childhood friend a few days ago, why did his personality suddenly flip?
Hah… As if this much will discourage me! Aristole has beaten many things into my head - One of which being how to communicate even under stressful situations. You all are nothing compared to that devil!
Pushing through the stiff atmosphere, a weird excitement courses through my veins as if this were some challenge to overcome. Scanning the other three faces sitting at the table, I match each person up with their respective identities in my mind. Margot Linette isn’t the only person with this skill.
Vali Anthurium; dyed black hair and eyes the shade of amber. Tattoos inspired by the animalistic folklore of Eastern kingdoms snake up both his arms.
…Nott, is this the guy who influenced your rebellious stage?
Hel Hyacinthus; rich garnet hair match his glowing eyes. He’s smaller than the other boys around the table which reminds me of Noel. A sudden urge to ruffle his hair overtakes my senses and my fingers twitch a little.
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No no no… I manage to hold my hand back. That would be social suicide.
And of course, Sigyn Photinia.
In Vampiric mythology, her name means victorious girlfriend. Your parents must really want you to marry one of these idiotic princes, huh? I stifle down my pity for her.
Utilizing my knowledge of battle strategies, I liken the situation to a siege. My mind honing in on the least defended part of this fortress.
Using my brightest beam, I direct an unwavering smile and stare towards Sigyn. “Hello, Lady Sigyn Photinia. My name is Aeriea Newlyn.”
The poor girl looks to be in shock at my sudden address. She recovers quickly and ignores my gaze. I continue the bombardment though. Smiling even more splendidly, I keep talking.
“The commotion during the aptitude exam was quite eye-catching. At first, I thought it was ridiculous to argue over an article of clothing. However, seeing your lovely outfit today, I now understand that you are used to being the most beautifully-dressed in any given room!”
“A-Ah… Hm…” I see her try and force down a pleased smile.
After seeing Leila in action, I realized her weakness - Compliments! Wait, when I think about it, she kind of reminds me of the Flower Fairies.
From the corner of my eye, I see Vali snicker at her reaction - Another opening.
“Good day, Sir Vali Anthurium.” His sneer immediately disappears.
“I recently acquired an Anthurium emerald fountain pen. The quality and fluidity of writing is superb! I am glad your familia decided to take a chance upon the industry.”
Vali observes me for a bit before his amber eyes drawl in amusement - As if he just found a new toy to play with.
Danger, danger!
I feel a slight chill down my spine, so I quickly redirect my attack onto the next person.
“Sir Hel Hyacinthus. I have heard much of the Signet Knights. If it does not bother you, I would love to hear some stories about it sometime.”
Hel looks at me warily. “You know of the Signet Knights?”
“Of course! They are unmatched in strength and the most renowned knight regiment. It is your father who leads the Amaryllis’ personal protection escort, is it not?”
“T-That is correct.” The transition of his garnet eyes going from glaring to wide-eyed in surprise is quite funny.
Vali and Sigyn must think the same, for they narrow their eyes in mirth at his reaction. Hel shoots them a glare and they quickly look away to fix their faces.
Nott is looking at me with a deadpan expression. Sighing, he finally speaks to me. “Can you please stop beguiling my court?”
The flank has succeeded! I cheer in my head.
“What-! As if a mere bloodbag could woo me!” Sigyn stands up and snarls at Nott.
Vali instantly pushes her chair forward, it hits against the back of her knees which causes her to sit back down. “Why you-!”
He giggles deliriously at her outrage.
“Restrain yourself in front of the Second Prince, Sigyn.” Hel grabs her shoulder lightly, but his comment is as sharp as a just-forged sword.
Whew. Tiny, but aggressive.
With her anger unable to be released upon her actual targets, she seems to redirect it at Sól instead. “This is all because you acknowledged her greetings!”
“It would be rude not to reply when someone speaks to you.”
Pressing her ruby-red lips together, Sigyn looks unhappily at both Sól and Nott. One doesn’t notice, while the other doesn’t even care.
Nott grumbles out. “So, what do you want?”
Hmmn. Sigyn doesn’t look like she wants to marry either of these two. Mhm, although they're princes... I completely understand. Nodding my head, I can’t help thinking such rude thoughts.
“Hey!”
Well then, I achieved what I came here to do. To confirm that Nott and Sól aren't angry at me, as well as get to know a few of the Kindred aristocracy.
“Do pardon me, I hope you all have a wonderful day!”
“You…! You’re seriously messing with me, aren’t you!?”
Hmn? I have no idea what you’re talking about, Nott.