Elizabeth learns the truth (1)

Lady Elizabeth Rosewen woke up and began her morning routine. She brushed her teeth while getting ready for the bath. Once done, she checked herself in the mirror before pulling out her uniform.

What should I wear today? She pondered, her hand instinctively reaching for a light pink shirt. 

The academy's uniform was checkered in blue and red, the kingdom's colors. Students were required to wear a jacket and slacks or skirts, but they were allowed freedom of choice regarding the shirt below the jacket.

Something that matches his eyes. She thought with a smile and grabbed a soft blush pink shirt.

Yesterday, Ciaran had been called into the principal's office. Someone had accused him of sexually assaulting someone while they were out on a training mission. She couldn't see him yesterday, but Olivia or Livia, as she called her. Livia assured her that she would take care of things and for her to head to her room. 

She put on the shirt and buttoned it up before heading to the mirror and fixing her hair. Once satisfied with her hair, she began putting on makeup, which took her a few minutes. 

With her hair and makeup done, she put on her jacket and made to leave her room. Because her father was a Marquis, she could room by herself. Meanwhile, Earl's daughters and the ones below shared rooms. 

This was done to help foster connections between the future generations, or as Ciaran had told her, but that held no interest for her, and she left the room with a bright smile. 

Walking down the halls of the girl's dormitory, many gave her awkward stares. Which was something she had gotten used to. Because she was betrothed to Ciaran, who was labeled as a sexual deviant who used his power to bed all types of women and men. From what she had heard. 

Many believed that she was being abused and even offered her support if she were to speak out against him. Even her childhood friend Leonardo, or Leo, as she called him. He had secretly visited her and offered protection if she spoke up about what Ciaran had done to her.

She replied honestly that he had done nothing to her, and Leo got angry and left, saying that she would throw away their friendship for someone who abused and used her. She let him go because there was nothing to say. 

Apart from that kiss five years ago, nothing else happened between them, and she tried on multiple occasions to make something happen. Yet each time, he refused, claiming that he wasn't ready. 

She wasn't stupid. She knew he had feelings for his aide, which is probably why he never progressed in their relationship. This left her hurt because she was supposed to be the one to marry him, and he was most likely fooling around with his aide.

If only they could know the truth. She thought as she walked out of the girl's dormitory and noticed that more than usual were glancing at her. This meant that word had spread about Ciaran being officially accused of sexual assault.

Walking into the main building where the academic classrooms were held, she was stopped by Stephanie, who was known as the top gossiper of the academy. Elizabeth showed a fake smile but froze when Steph showed a remorseful look instead of her usually haughty smile.

This made her worried. Maybe Livia had failed to help Ciaran, and he had gotten in trouble. "What's wrong, Steph?" she asked.

"I heard about what happened yesterday," Steph said as tears began to form. I want you to know that anything I may have said regarding the rumors about Lord Maxamus was rude of me, and I hope you don't judge me too harshly."

"What do you mean?" She asked in a caring tone. Monster or Playboy and other slurs were always thrown against him, but never Lord Maxamus.

"I heard that the girl who accused Lord Maxamus was being forced by her father and what's worse." She paused as her tears seemingly disappeared, "It was discovered that her father had ties to the Order of the Pure and tried to force himself on her." 

Elizabeth's eyes widened. Every noble knew of the Order of the Pure, with its practice of interbreeding within its family to keep its bloodline pure. Every noble also knew of the consequences of being affiliated with the order. Even just being accused was a serious matter. 

"You sure?" She said in uncertainty.

Steph nodded, "And what's more." She paused and leaned in close, "I heard that he's taking her as a mistress to protect her."

Elizabeth was stunned, but Steph smiled as she stepped back and spoke loudly, "If I recall, Lord Maxamus even faced off against a Demon General to save you." She paused as she fanned herself, "Lord Maxamus must be a true Man to be able to save the ones he cares about." How she emphasized man was noticeable, and many of the male nobles entering the classroom visibly tensed. 

Elizabeth tuned Steph out as her mind reeled. Who was this girl? How long had they known each other? Why didn't she know about this? All these questions entered her mind, and she didn't have an answer. 

"What say you?" Steph asked, drawing her attention. 

"What?" Elizabeth asked in a shaken voice.

Steph smiled, "I asked if you would be willing to arrange a meeting between Lord Maxamus and me. I want to express my regret about believing the rumors and wish to offer my support."

"I'll have to talk with him, but I'm sure he would be willing to have lunch." Elizabeth responded.

"Good!" Steph clapped, "I look forward to speaking with Lord Maxamus during lunch." She turned around and entered the classroom. 

Elizabeth followed her into the classroom and took her seat. Most girls were looking at her with a hint of jealousy, while the males avoided looking at her.

The teacher began the lecture but ignored it as she thought deeply. 

Livia said she would take care of everything, but wasn't this a little excessive? Why make some girl she had never heard of Ciaran's mistress? What was she trying to do? But more importantly, how did Stephanie learn of all of this? Why didn't Livia let her know? 

All these questions began to eat at her, and by the time class was over, she nearly bolted from the classroom and headed straight for Livia's room. She might get in trouble for missing her next class, but she couldn't wait, and as she drew closer to her room, her pace became faster.