Chapter 67

"Why are you standing there like that? Do you have something to say to me?"

The Empress asked it as though she had no idea why Adele was standing.

"It seems there aren't enough chairs, Your Majesty."

At that, Seira quickly spoke up.

"Oh dear, what a shame. These are all the tables and chairs the Empress's Palace has."

What nonsense.

But the Empress turned to the room with a grave expression.

"I'm sorry, but is there anyone willing to give up their seat for Miss Adele?"

Of course, no one stood up.

Seira stepped forward in front of the Empress, her face careful and solemn.

"Your Majesty, I know it's forward of me to say so, but none of the ladies gathered here rank below Miss Adele. She is only the Count's fiancée, after all — not yet his Countess."

The other noblewomen chimed in their agreement, as if…