The public lunch, organised by Duchess Prim, is a grand event. Even the Emperor was supposed to come, but he had some sudden urgencies and sent his regards to the couple.
I'm sitting by the side of my husband, obediently greeting the people that approach us. On the way here, Pericle explained to me that I owe respect only to a few people in the court, and none of them is here now.
Other than for the two Dowager Empresses and the Princess, I'm the most high-ranking woman in the Empire.
Still, I have to curtsey to the host of the event, because I'm in her territory. If we met in another place, then it would be the contrary. Could these rules be more complicated? The Ethirians have too much free time on their hands.
I smile graciously to the people that I'm introduced to, trying to remember the face of those with more relevance.
