Chapter 33: The Healing Flower of High Society
The bright morning sun filtered through the windows of the duke's mansion as Tiara prepared for her day. She stood in front of her wardrobe, selecting a simple yet elegant dress suitable for her new undertaking. Her personal maid, Lily, carefully braided Tiara's hair while glancing curiously at the medical satchel her lady was assembling.
"Lady Tiara," Lily said hesitantly, "are you certain about this? Visiting a commoner's hospital is...unconventional for a lady of your status."
Tiara smiled warmly at her. "That's precisely why it's important, Lily. If I can make even a small difference, it's worth it. And besides," she added with a playful wink, "I'm taking Felix with me. No one would dare cause trouble with him around."
Lily sighed but smiled back. "You're too kind, my lady. I'll make sure everything is prepared."
At the Commoners' Hospital
The hospital was modest, a simple stone building with worn wooden benches and rows of cots filled with patients. The air smelled of herbs and salves, a testament to the hardworking healers inside.
When Tiara entered, the staff and patients froze in shock. A noble ladyâno less the daughter of a dukeâwas not a sight they expected to see in such a place.
"Lady Tiara," an older healer stammered, bowing deeply. "What brings you here?"
"I've come to help," Tiara said, her voice calm but firm. "Please, let me assist in any way I can."
The healer hesitated, but the earnestness in Tiara's eyes convinced her. "Very well, my lady. But the work here is difficult, and not for the faint of heart."
Tiara rolled up her sleeves, revealing her delicate but determined hands. "I wouldn't be here if I wasn't ready."
Felix stood near the entrance, his imposing figure discouraging anyone from approaching too closely. Though he kept a stoic expression, he couldn't help but admire Tiara's courage.
A Growing Reputation
Word spread quickly of Tiara's efforts. She tended to the sick, applied poultices, and even taught the healers some advanced techniques from her past life's knowledge.
"Lady Tiara, thank you," a mother said tearfully as Tiara handed her a vial of medicine. "We couldn't afford a healer, and you've saved my son's life."
Tiara knelt to the child's level, brushing a hand over his feverish forehead. "Take care of him, and let me know if he doesn't improve. I'll come back."
The commoners began referring to her as the "Angel of Aurelian."
Back at the Mansion
When Tiara returned home, she was exhausted but content. Cedric was waiting for her in the drawing room, arms crossed and an amused smirk on his face.
"Working in a hospital now, are we?" he teased. "Father is going to have a heart attack when he hears about this."
Tiara flopped onto a chaise lounge, groaning. "Let him. I'm too tired to deal with his lectures today."
Cedric chuckled and tossed her an apple. "You've certainly earned this. But seriously, Tiara, what you're doing is impressive. Even Father might admit thatâafter he stops panicking."
Tiara smiled and took a bite of the apple. "Thanks, Cedric. Coming from you, that means a lot."
At a Social Gathering
The next week, Tiara attended a tea party hosted by Lady Belfort. Unlike the usual tedious conversations, the topic of Tiara's hospital work dominated the gathering.
"Did you hear about Lady Tiara? She's been helping the commoners at the hospital," one noblewoman whispered.
"She's so selfless! No wonder she's becoming the darling of high society," another chimed in.
Tiara handled the compliments with grace, but she couldn't escape Lilith's watchful gaze.
"Lady Tiara," Lilith said, her voice saccharine, "it's so admirable that you're dedicating yourself to such...humble pursuits. I suppose you're just naturally drawn to such things."
Tiara's eyes sparkled with mischief. "Oh, Lady Lilith, it's not so much about being drawn to it as it is about making a real difference. After all, some of us have to contribute something meaningful to society."
The room erupted in laughter, and Lilith's sweet smile tightened ever so slightly.
At the Imperial Palace
Chris was reading a report about Tiara's growing popularity when his aide entered.
"Your Highness, there's a new rumor circulating," the aide said.
Chris raised an eyebrow. "Another one? What is it this time?"
"It seems that Lady Tiara is being referred to as the 'Flower of High Society' and the 'Angel of Aurelian.'"
Chris smirked, leaning back in his chair. "Is that so? She's certainly keeping herself busy. I'll have to see her for myself soonâif she's not too busy saving the world."