Shomin no Aji - Chapter 598.1 (Patreon)

Extra Edition / Mob Perspective: The Troubled Entourage Life of a Certain Viscount's Daughter 2
A few days after Francine-sama’s tea party, I finally received word from Trixie-sama that Cristea-sama had made her move.

I had always wondered how she managed to gather information, and I heard that she bought it from merchants’ children and commoner students.
Isn't that beyond just being a gossip lover?

I was semi-forced to attend a tea party by Trixie-sama.
From the conversation last time, I had a bad feeling about this summons…
But, being in a weaker position than Trixie-sama, I had no choice but to attend, and I decided to sit in an inconspicuous spot to observe the situation.

“Ladies, you may have already heard, but it seems Alicia-sama has finally been defeated by Cristea-sama and, astonishingly, has joined the ranks of her former enemy.”

Trixie-sama's words caused a stir among the guests.

What, Alicia-sama has…?
Even if she was defeated, could she really serve under a young lady who was her enemy?
Her family should be in the opposing faction to the Ellisfeed house, so wouldn’t this cause a huge uproar?
Or has the Marquis Gruzier family submitted to Duke Ellisfeed’s family?

While various speculations were flying around, Trixie-sama, with a triumphant expression, called for silence, and the room instantly quieted down.

“Recently, there was a report that Cristea-sama and Alicia-sama were seen greeting each other and chatting amicably as they moved to the classroom. It was also mentioned that Cristea-sama promised to invite Alicia-sama to a tea party…”

Trixie-sama paused there, let out an exaggerated sigh, and then picked up her teacup.

As everyone watched impatiently while she slowly sipped her tea, she placed the cup back on the saucer and gave us a bright smile.

“Therefore, I anonymously advised Alicia-sama’s companions that there’s nothing to gain from staying by her side, and that they should distance themselves for a while and consult their families on how to proceed.”

Wait… Isn't that just a roundabout way of telling them to isolate Alicia-sama?

“Although her companions seemed uncertain, they will eventually follow this advice.”

Trixie-sama’s smile widened into a smirk, but her eyes remained cold and unfeeling, making her look quite frightening.

“Once Alicia-sama’s companions leave her, she will realize she’s no longer suitable to be the Crown Prince’s fiancée. Meanwhile, I intend to subtly introduce other gentlemen to Cristea-sama, by creating opportunities for her to meet them. I’ve heard that the Gadrey and Boatville families are eager to strengthen their ties with the Ellisfeed’s Ducal household. Mentioning Cristea-sama’s tea parties and hinting at her debut in society would be beneficial.”

Trixie-sama glanced at a group of younger noble ladies, who flinched under her gaze.
I remembered that Trinian, the son of the Gadrey family, was in the same grade as them.

“You ladies,” Trixie-sama addressed them, “just share a bit of useful information near these troubled gentlemen. Simply talk about Cristea-sama’s tea parties within their earshot. They will figure out their next move. All you have to do is chat where they can hear you. Isn’t that simple?”

When Trixie-sama tilted her head and smiled wickedly, the young ladies she addressed hesitantly nodded, saying, “Y-yes, if it’s just that…”

They had no other choice.
The atmosphere demanded compliance.
The rest of us averted our eyes, praying that Trixie-sama wouldn't assign us any tasks next.

Next: https://www.patreon.com/posts/105073657