The maids went around, lighting the candles and pulling the curtains down. Things started to speed up around her. Isabella stayed stuck in the hallway for a while. After that, she took a deep breath, fixed her posture, and motioned to Maria.
She was still close by, waiting for the princess. “Do not let the events that occur here leave the castle.”
“Yes, your Highness.” Maria bowed, but her eyes were full of pity for the Empress.
However, she knew words of consolation would only create more rift in the Empress's mind.
“The temperature might get colder tonight. Should I ask to draw a warm bath for Your Highness?” She hoped the Empress and the Empire would reconcile, but the rift in the garden was not enough.
They had another one. ‘It is all the princess's fault; why can’t she be a normal lady?’ Maria thought. “How is the princess?” The Empress asked as she walked toward her room, followed by Maria.