Author Becomes Character (Revised version)

Thanks to my birthday party, I got to meet a bunch of noble kids my age. Exciting, right? Yeah, not really—it mostly left me feeling like I'd eaten something weird and couldn't quite place what.

And now, because the universe thinks I love socializing, I'm at yet another tea party. Today's venue? Duke Farhan's mansion. One of the empire's big dukes. No pressure.

Even though I look six on the outside, I'm actually an adult inside, so I can kind of see through what's happening here. I'm definitely too young to fit in with her and her friends, yet she still went out of her way to invite me. And let's be real, it's not exactly a mystery why.

Brother Calvin might not be the crowned prince, but he's still royal through and through. From what I've overheard from the maids, there's a group of nobles—the so-called aristocratic party—who think Calvin should take the throne instead of Brother Tristan. I don't fully understand all the noble politics and factions just yet, but one thing's clear: some people want to use my brothers and me as tools to climb the ladder of power. So yeah, I've got to tread carefully.

The carriage finally stopped in front of the mansion, and I peeked out the window to see a row of servants lined up by the grand entrance, standing perfectly straight and formal. Among them was a young lady who looked about 13 or 14. She had shiny copper-brown hair that caught the light and green eyes that sparkled warmly as she smiled at me.

"Princess Anya, welcome to our humble home," Lady Heaven Farhan greeted with a graceful bow, her coppery hair catching the light. "I am Heaven Farhan, the eldest daughter of Duke Farhan."

"Lady Heaven," I replied, curtsying just enough to be polite. "Thank you for your kind invitation. It is a pleasure to be here."

"The pleasure is all ours, Your Highness," she said, her tone warm but carefully measured. "My family and I have been eagerly anticipating your visit."

"And I must say," I added, keeping my smile composed, "your estate is truly impressive. It reflects the excellent taste and refinement of House Farhan."

Her green eyes lit up, though her expression remained poised. "You are far too kind, Princess. My father will be delighted to hear such praise from one so esteemed."

As we walked toward a cozy gazebo covered in blooming roses, I couldn't help but take in the peaceful charm of the garden. The air smelled sweet, and the sunlight slipping through the flowers gave everything a soft, warm glow.

Inside the gazebo, four young ladies sat with an almost too-perfect grace, their elegant gowns shimmering softly in the sunlight. They looked to be around Lady Heaven's age, but the way they all turned to face us in unison sent a chill down my spine. Their sharp, calculating smiles reminded me of hyenas circling their prey, patient but ready to pounce.

"Welcome, Princess Anya," they chimed in unison, their voices flowing together like a well-rehearsed melody.

As they started introducing themselves one by one, my brain decided to take a quick vacation. Their names and fancy titles all blurred together, like some overly complicated song I'd never learn the lyrics to. I knew I should be paying attention—good girls listen and all that—but honestly, it felt like trying to keep up with a tongue-twister nursery rhyme I'd just heard for the first time.

The truth? I wasn't here to make besties or laugh over tea and cakes. This wasn't that kind of party—no running around playing tag or swapping goofy stories. Nope, this was all about showing respect. Duke Farhan's family was kind of a big deal—the richest and most powerful of the empire's four dukes. So yeah, I was here to nod, smile, and not mess it up.

How was I even supposed to relate to them? Most of these girls were, like, 15. What 15-year-old in their right mind wants to hang out with a six-year-old? Spoiler alert: none. And their topics? Crushes, fancy dresses, and the drama of who wore it better. Meanwhile, I'm sitting there like, "So... anyone want to talk about dodging eviction or how to stretch a loaf of bread for a week?"