Vellis’s carriage had just come to a stop when Elliot Laval, dressed in refined casual attire, stepped out from the Jinghua Elegant Courtyard to greet her.
“Your Highness, you’re quite late!”
His frankness in pointing out Vellis’s tardiness was softened by the perfectly measured tone Elliot used, making it far from annoying.
Instead, it carried the lighthearted banter typical among friends…
The first to step out of the carriage was the Empire Princess’s guardian knight—Victoria Meikle.
Victoria immediately stood by the carriage and extended her hand, gracefully accepting the small hand Vellis offered and helping her down.
Victoria was already a stunning figure—her physique and features flawless and difficult to fault.
But when Vellis emerged wearing a pure white dress, a crimson ribbon cascading from her delicate shoulder and cinched at the waist, everything around them seemed to pale in comparison.
“Your Highness, youthful and beautiful, truly a goddess beyond this world!”
Elliot exclaimed in awe. Victoria’s expression flickered strangely beside him, but Vellis showed little reaction, her response subdued.
Seeing her indifferent to the compliments, Elliot wondered—could the princess dislike being praised for her beauty?
Yet every woman he had met, even if dismissive with words, secretly cherished such flattery.
Was there truly a woman who did not care about her looks…?
“Professor Laval, you flatter me. Please, lead the way.”
Vellis nodded to him and took the lead walking inside, as if she were the very host of this gathering.
Elliot wiped his nose after a small sneeze. Victoria glanced at him before following behind Vellis.
Once their mistress had entered, the guards and coachmen she brought dispersed, instinctively surrounding the Jinghua Elegant Courtyard.
Passersby did not see Vellis, but they noticed the serious soldiers and began guessing which noble dignitary was spending the day inside.
Entering the elegantly decorated main hall, a person in charge soon approached with several attendants to greet them.
“Your Highness’s arrival brightens our humble establishment!”
The attendants knelt in salute, but Vellis raised her hand, allowing them to stand.
“This is no formal occasion; there’s no need for such strict protocol. Are you the owner of this place?”
The man before her was impeccably dressed, his hair neat, face refined, and clothes tailored to fit his tall, well-proportioned frame.
His occasional aristocratic aura piqued Vellis’s curiosity.
“Your Highness has keen eyes; I am indeed the owner, Humphrey Kelly.”
The man named Humphrey Kelly bowed respectfully in introduction.
“Kelly? Are you nobility?”
Vellis asked.
But in her memory, there was no noble family named Kelly.
“My ancestors were, but the family has since declined. Though we cling to the dignity of lost nobility, the only legacy left is this single shop in the capital Monsel, barely enough to make ends meet.”
Humphrey summarized his background in a few words. Vellis looked him over and said,
“This establishment covers a vast area, with lavish and elegant decoration inside and out. It must have cost a fortune. After all this time, it still shines like new. ‘Barely making ends meet’ doesn’t seem to explain this.”
Humphrey quickly admitted, “Your Highness’s insight is sharp, but with my limited means, I dare not offend you with falsehoods.”
At that moment, Elliot entered and hastily said, “Your Highness, please follow me. This is not the place for such talk.”
Vellis nodded, no longer pressing on the owner’s history.
Humphrey led the way, with Vellis walking second, followed by Victoria, then Elliot and the attendants.
Leaving the hall, they passed through a corridor adorned with various precious oil paintings, then ascended jade steps to the second floor.
Every step along the way—floor, walls, decorations—was either exquisitely luxurious or refined and classical.
The place was remarkably quiet, as if a serene haven hidden within the bustling imperial capital.
They passed a small garden on the second floor. Humphrey pushed open a heavy fragrant wooden door, revealing a simple room with an antique charm.
Inside, dancers, singers, and musicians awaited, ready to follow orders.
Humphrey guided Vellis to sit at a wooden table. With a wave of his hand, gentle and elegant music filled the room.
It was Vellis’s first time in such a place—her past self had rarely ventured beyond the palace walls into such pleasure houses.
“Your Highness, there is a wind-based soundproofing magic array here, but it is one-way. Your conversation will be private, and these musicians and dancers will not overhear…”
“If you wish to command them, a slight hand gesture will suffice. They are trained and will understand your intent.”
Vellis understood immediately. This Humphrey Kelly was not as simple as he appeared.
To precisely divide the room with a wind magic array without dulling the enchanting music from the performers…
This small detail alone proved the power behind Humphrey.
“Understood. You may leave now.”
“Yes, Your Highness.”
Humphrey led the attendants away, leaving two delicate-faced girls—said to be deaf-mutes—standing by, ready to serve.
“Your Highness, is this place to your satisfaction?”
Elliot asked confidently, listening to the soft melodies.
“Not bad.”
Vellis nodded and took a sip of the tea before her.
[ A famous tea from the Northern Coldlands—Jianxue Chun, known for its wonderfully sweet and refreshing aroma. It has a slightly bitter aftertaste, ending with a cool sweetness rising from the stomach. If purchased, it costs about 20 silver dragons per pound. ]
The power of the True Eye was remarkable—Vellis could effortlessly gather such detailed information without straining her mind.
The tea was delicious, though quite expensive.
“I thought there would be others. Is this all the feast is?”
Vellis asked, setting down her cup.
“Ha! Having Your Highness alone is already a grand banquet!”
Elliot chuckled, clapping his hands.
At once, dancers appeared in a flowing line, moving gracefully to the music in their beautiful costumes.
The two deaf-mute girls turned and soon returned, leading a group inside.
Plates of exquisite food were placed on the table in neat order.
From steaming hot cooked dishes and rich soups to fresh, delicate snacks and pastries, plus a variety of cold dishes and stews…
Soon, the entire room was filled with tempting aromas, the atmosphere alive with song and dance.
“A feast is impossible without food!” Elliot personally set out bowls, chopsticks, and cutlery for Vellis.
“Not only is the singing and dancing at Jinghua Elegant Courtyard unmatched, but their kitchen’s delicacies are legendary among the nobility. Your Highness, please enjoy!”
Elliot said as Vellis picked up the cutlery and tasted the food. Instantly, a wonderful burst of flavor exploded on her tongue.
“Indeed, a rare and exquisite taste!”
Before her were alluring dancers, beautiful voices soothing the heart, and a feast that delighted every sense. Vellis found herself becoming immersed in the experience.
Elliot did not rush to reveal the purpose of the visit. Instead, he curiously offered sweet milk instead of wine, toasting Vellis repeatedly.
Thoughtful and unobtrusive, his manner sparked genuine admiration and respect.
This was always a good way to begin serious discussions.
Vellis was no exception.
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