CHAPTER 69 (2) - I Should have Become the Empress Instead!

"These days my mind has not been sound. If you are interested in the situations of the palace, you would know, recently..."

"Yes, I know. I try not to pay much attention to politics or the affairs of the Imperial Family, but it is undoubtedly a big deal for His Majesty to formally bring in a concubine." Rothesay spoke fairly, and added in a slightly lower voice. "I am worried about Her Majesty..."

"She pretends to act fine, but she has surely been deeply hurt." Petronilla said this, and shook her head with a depressed look. "I should have become the Empress instead…"

"I am sorry?"

"It is nothing." Petronilla, who had let those words mistakenly come out, soon showed her usual smile.

Rothesay did not ask further about the smile, and smoothly led the conversation. "I understand. Anyways, you were busy enough because it was quite a matter. Just being by Her Majesty's side alone..."

"Thank you for your understanding. Lately it was both really difficult, mentally and physically."