Mirabelle had no opportunity to mentally prepare herself for any of it.
Immediately after breakfast, the Duchess gathered the young females and led them deeper into the estate until they reached a large inner courtyard.
Warm sunlight spilled across pale stone pathways that curved elegantly through the open space.
At the center stood a magnificent fountain carved from white marble, its waters cascading around the statue of an enormous fox with multiple flowing tails curled protectively around its body.
Thin streams of water shimmered down the sculpted fur, catching the morning light like liquid silver.
Around the fountain stretched a wide courtyard clearly designed for noble gatherings and celebrations.
Flowerbeds lined the outer edges beneath tall stone arches, overflowing with blooming vines, pale blue lilies, crimson roses, and delicate golden flowers Mirabelle didn't recognize.
