Rosa's smirk was a facade, her attention fixed on the elders. “You were right. The elders don't hesitate to criticize, forgetting the hierarchy openly. But what Rante castle needs, I know better than the Lady herself. Just because my father didn't extend recognition to his distant relatives doesn't mean he didn't care for the throne. Accusing the former princess of Rante of not knowing her own castle's tradition is dire. Mocking the dress given by the Empress is a sign of disregard, isn’t it, Lady Henna?” Rosa tilted her head, her words dripping with sarcasm.
“What is she talking about, Your Highness?” Henna complained.
Darce sighed. “I warned you to be careful. You're talking to my wife, after all. Did you think I married someone who doesn't deserve her title?” Darce watched their expressions, relishing their discomfort.
Rosa, too, wished to hide her previous title, but the murmurings were too much. They both longed for the gathering to end.