The Mad Princess and the Dying Prince novel Chapter 118

Her father was already the powerful Vice Minister of War, heavily favored by the king. Combined with such an advantageous marriage, her family's political might was nearly absolute.

In Helena's mind, even Princess Corinna had to show her deference. What was a girl like Gwyneth compared to her?

"Lady Helena, what seems to be the trouble?" another noblewoman intervened, trying to play peacemaker. "The princess just went inside to change her gown. If she returns to find a brawl in her gardens..."

Hearing Princess Corinna's name finally curbed Helena's urge to tear into Gwyneth further.

She shot Zella a warning glare, sparing her for the moment. Her true hatred was reserved for Lucia!

She commanded her two maids. "Go. Force her to her knees to beg for my forgiveness!"

"Yes, my lady!"

The heavily built servants lunged toward Lucia.

Zella let out a pathetic gasp, whispering in feigned panic, "Sister, run."

Aurelia tugged anxiously at Helena's sleeve, pretending to plead, "Helena, please, she doesn't know any better..."

Yet, she made absolutely no move to stop the charging servants.

Though the other guests despised Helena's bullying, none of them knew Lucia. No one was willing to make an enemy of a powerful future marchioness for a stranger. They merely watched, expressions torn between pity and morbid curiosity.

"Will you drop to the dirt and apologize to our lady, or do we have to make you?"

The maids had already reached Lucia, their tones dripping with their mistress's arrogance.

They reached out, fingers hooked like claws.

Gwyneth couldn't hold back and started forward, but a friend yanked her back. "Gwyneth, are you truly insane enough to provoke the Marsh family?"

"But she is betrothed to Prince Jareth..."

Someone nearby scoffed.

"Do you actually believe that? There is clearly some dark conspiracy behind it."

The maids seized Lucia by the arms, one on each side. They prepared to kick the backs of her knees to force her down. But in a blur of motion, Lucia raised her hands, seized the backs of their heads, and ruthlessly slammed them together.

Accusing her of bedding the king—how could she ever show her face in society again?!

The surrounding ladies stared at Lucia, thoroughly aghast.

How—how could anyone dare speak such scandalous treason?

"I am the future Princess Consort, and you demand I bow to you? Has House Marsh decided it outranks the royal family? Does Prince Jareth know you consider yourselves his betters?"

Lucia twisted the blade deeper with a serene smile.

Helena's eyes burned with rabid hostility. She gasped for air, her finger trembling as she pointed at Lucia, completely robbed of speech.

She was spoiled, yes, but she wasn't a complete fool. Lucia's words were a deadly trap! If such an accusation of treason reached the crown, her entire family would face the executioner's block!

Heavens, she has courage, Gwyneth thought, staring at Lucia with shining, awestruck eyes.

What magnificent bravery!

It was the first time she had ever seen anyone bring Helena Marsh to the brink of collapse with a mere handful of words.