The debut has just ended, and I'm preparing to leave.
The party will continue without me since I'm tired and in need of rest. The Princess seems eager to retire as well, which means that it's not boring only to me. Once seen the girls and pretending to have assessed them, I don't have any other use, here.
The interesting part is over, so I collect my things to signal that I'm departing.
I will follow the Princess's suggestion and propose all four of the girls as candidates to his majesty. And those of last year as well. I haven't met them, but there's no need since none of the Ethirian young ladies stands a chance.
I get up and smooth my gown, wrinkled by sitting for too long.
«Duchess, let me accompany you,» the Emperor says, offering me his arm. «At least through the imperial gardens.»
«I'm honoured, your majesty.»
«I'd like to ask you for an opinion while we have time.»
«Sure...»
