Vera wore a finely made black gown with a slightly flared hem. It lent her an air of mystery and the unknown.
The old-fashioned court gown was neither as conservative as Loen fashion nor as daring as Intis fashion. It looked more like the Austrian court dress Princess Sisi had worn in a film from Abner's previous life... Its neckline was somewhat low, revealing a patch of smooth, fair skin, but as long as Vera did not bend over, it showed nothing it shouldn't.
The gown's clever cut displayed Vera's graceful neck, full bust, and slender, powerful waist to their best advantage. She radiated feminine charm.
Had Her Highness come straight from a ball? Abner wondered. He rose politely to greet her and showed her to a seat.
Because the meeting was secret, no servants had prepared drinks or desserts. But on Xio's advice, Abner had made sure to have Vera's favorite Duke's Tea ready.
This tea was as renowned as Queen's Tea, which was said to have originated with the Blood Moon Queen. Both were among the most expensive varieties, and legend traced its origins back to a great noble family of the Solomon Empire in the Fourth Epoch.
Xio, as their intermediary, had originally wanted to attend the meeting too, but an urgent assignment had come up at the last minute, leaving her unable to get away.
"Detective Braine, this is our second meeting." Vera lifted her cup and took a small sip of tea. Still smiling, she spoke with pointed emphasis.
*Second meeting? Right. A few months ago, when I went to see my teacher off on an airship, I ran into Her Highness... Only I think I was disguised as Xio at the time. Xio told me afterward that the difference in height had indeed tipped