The hand that chokes (part 1)

Despite having eaten just enough to avoid appearing rude, Adela was already feeling the onset of indigestion as she made her way towards the Empress's chambers.

"Where to now?" She inquired, addressing one of Larissa's ladies-in-waiting who was accompanying her through the palace corridors.

"Once we pass through this section, we'll arrive at the area of the palace designated for Her Imperial Highness, Your Excellency."

Resembling the King's palace in Emoria, the palace's architectural structure was distinct from others in Kolhis, featuring more horizontal expansion than vertical depth. It provided Adela with the physical and mental space she needed to organize her thoughts.

I have to deliver that proposal to her effectively...

Larissa de Lanark didn't join her fiancé and her parents for the meal due to sudden fatigue. Instead, she sent a message through one of her ladies-in-waiting, asking her sister to meet with her after they had finished eating.