Soft afternoon sunlight spilled through the conservatory's massive glass panels, wrapping the group of noble daughters in a warmth that felt far more welcoming than the atmosphere truly was. Exotic flora, imported from the warmest reaches of the continent, bloomed in vibrant hues of magenta and gold, filling the air with a sweet, heavy fragrance. At the center of this indoor paradise sat Iryna, surrounded by the elite young women of the capital.
With Philia having thoughtfully excused himself after his earlier greetings to give the young women their own private space, the atmosphere in the conservatory was completely relaxed. Aside from a few silent, attentive maids standing near the trimmed hedges to refill teacups, the room belonged entirely to the daughters of the empire's highest nobility.
