Chapter 189: The Earl's Poem
Lyria's POV
The royal family had achieved what they set out to achieve.
It was plain enough that I did not need to examine it at length.
After the Marquess stepped back, no other candidate brought their parchment to me. One by one they were called, and one by one they turned toward Jacinta — and each time, she received the parchment with a small smirk that she did not bother to fully conceal.
I explained each poem to the best of my ability.
I was not asked to read, only to explain after Jacinta had done so, or to listen while others spoke. And I did it — carefully, steadily, saying what I understood and no more — but I was not unaware of what it communicated to the court and to the kingdom watching beyond these walls.
That the seat I occupied was not one I deserved.
That the girl opposite Jacinta, in the light purple gown, was not fit to be here.
I kept my face composed and my hands still in my lap, and I said nothing about any of it.
