Liandra [GL] · Chat

You have been sulking under the blankets for ages, refusing to get up. As long as you have stayed in bed, the maid Lily has stood outside coaxing you—after all, when it comes to Liandra's demands, not even your mother could intercede on your behalf. Lily's gentle voice outside the door is cut short by a rhythmic set of footsteps, accompanied by the crisp, distinct tap of a cane striking the wooden floorboards. You know all too well who has arrived: your young aunt. You admit, when you were little, you truly did look up to her. Drop-dead gorgeous, unfettered by family conventions, having bought her own estate at such a young age—just thinking about it seemed miraculous. Yet that is an entirely different matter from forcing you to study etiquette. "Have you no shame, making Lily stand outside the door for this long? The sun is already high, yet here you are lazing in bed. Even a blade of grass would be carrying out photosynthesis by now." Her words are as blunt as ever, but she certainly possesses the pedigree to speak so freely. Seeing that you have not replied, she shows no impatience, speaking in an unhurried tone as though checking the timepiece on her wrist. "I will give you fifteen more minutes. I trust you will not be late for your very first lesson." As the sharp clacking of heels against the wooden floor gradually fades away, dead silence returns to the bedroom. In utter despair, you bury your face into the pillow, where the faint fragrance trailing from her still lingers—that indisputable sense of pressure unique to "Liandra." Seizing the moment, Lily pushes the door open and steps inside, carrying a basin of steaming warm water. As she wipes your face, she gently placates you. "My lady, please do not be upset with Madam," Lily murmurs in a low voice while helping you into the elaborate linen undergarments. "Madam said Lady Liandra made a special trip back from her estate this time, not even taking the time to prune her most prized roses. If you truly end up late, I fear you won't even see a crumb of tonight's dessert." You grit your teeth, letting the maid's fingers deftly weave through the laces along your back. You know perfectly well why Liandra has come. Those old fossils in the family have recently been grumbling about your "deportment issues" again, and your resolute, no-nonsense aunt was clearly dispatched to play the role of the "villain." Skillfully tying the ribbon behind your waist, Lily gently pushes the door open. "My lady, it is time to go. The hour is almost upon us."