Chapter 200
The capital’s social scene was abuzz with the arrival of Bella Appenz. Naturally, the main topic was whether she was truly the lost daughter of Marquis Wheddon or merely someone who resembled her.
But even more intensely debated was the question of Dehart’s true intentions in keeping someone so similar to the late Duchess by his side.
Was he truly mad? Had his regret and lingering attachment to the deceased Duchess driven him to become a bizarre pervert, seeking satisfaction with a woman who looked exactly like her?
Yet his behavior toward her was too gentlemanly for that, and his demeanor was perfectly normal. Moreover, Bella had a proper guardian: her uncle.
While people’s minds swirled with confusion, three days passed since their chance meeting at the opera house.
Early one morning, meticulously dressed, Nelia crossed the threshold of a tea house, basking in the attention she attracted.
“Oh my, it’s Lady Nelia. How unexpected—she hasn’t been seen anywhere outside the imperial court lately.”
“Maybe she wanted a special date with the Crown Prince.”
“Well, it’s clear she’s put more effort into her appearance than usual. Look at those jewels—looks like a ruby necklace recently purchased by the First Queen herself…”
Low whispers floated through the air, tickling Nelia’s ears. Sensing the simmering envy, Nelia smiled broadly as usual. Receiving such attention was always enjoyable, especially when it was laced with envy and jealousy.
“Long time no see, my lady. Enjoy your time.”
Nelia greeted each person she met with grace before heading toward a private room. Her light, graceful steps reflected her elated mood.
[It really is only you, Nelia.]
When she mentioned Sebelia’s birth mother and she was shaken enough to arrange a meeting in three days, her father praised her warmly. Silas’s compliments pleased Nelia immensely; she was proud of what she had accomplished.
Today, I must bring Sebelia back.
Nelia suppressed a grin as she recalled the small vial inside her bag. The new d**g, a potent hallucinogen mixed with rare foreign herbs, required only two drops to bend the will of its target.
I hope Sebelia becomes a good girl again.
Recalling the unpredictable side effects of the colorless potion, Nelia stopped before the private room.
“Phew.”
Feeling her heart pounding, she forced a gentle smile—the same smile young Sebelia had loved most.
Naturally, memories flooded back: Sebelia curled under her bed, crying after being scolded by their father; dragged by her hair by Nathan before being spotted and helped—a pitiful, foolish girl.
[If you had done it right from the start, none of this would’ve happened, Sebelia. Stop crying, drink warm milk, and go apologize to Father.]
[Yes, Sister….]
The pathetic Sebelia would stop crying instantly at such kind words, accepting her mistakes. The adults would then shower her with praise, proud of her.
Nelia truly enjoyed this.
Click.
So when she found Sebelia sitting, sipping tea without greeting her immediately, Nelia wasn’t even annoyed.
“I must have arrived just in time.”
Sweet rewards always followed after disciplining the hopeless little sister.
* * *
Nelia arrived an hour late and smiled after opening the door.
“I must have arrived just in time.”
Sebelia was too dumbfounded to reply. Instead, she took a sip of the third tea order placed during Nelia’s absence. Meanwhile, Nelia stood at the door, staring intently at Sebelia.
With a fierce look urging her to greet, Sebelia was already feeling drained.
At this rate, all my energy will be sucked dry, and I won’t have the strength left to maintain the illusion.
She’d been sleep-deprived the last few days from Claude’s harsh training. Sebelia sighed, hoping her shared senses with the illusion would hold firm.
Only then would the spy illusion she secretly planted by Nelia’s side provide her with all their true intentions.
As Sebelia steadied herself, Nelia’s patience snapped, and she spoke sharply:
“How could you, Sebelia? I didn’t even expect you to sit, but not even greeting me? What on earth is wrong?”
“Ah, sorry. Please sit. I ordered tea and snacks in advance, so they should be out soon. It’s been a while, Lady Nelia.”
Resigned, Sebelia greeted her, and Nelia smiled approvingly. Then, as naturally as breathing, she began to belittle Sebelia.
“Lady? You should call me ‘sister.’ You’re still so clueless. Guess some things never change. So, have you loosened up yet?”
Nelia fussed as she attempted to sit opposite Sebelia, but paused—no attendant was there to hold her coat or bag.
Her hand hovered awkwardly, then she hesitated before setting her bag aside. Sebelia’s sharp blue eyes flickered at her, but Nelia didn’t notice.
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