The heavy courtyard gates opened fully, and the women stepped inside, escorted carefully by the palace attendants. Their eyes widened as they took in the pale stone walls, the neatly trimmed hedges, and the long table set beneath the canopy. Some clutched their shawls tighter, others lowered their heads shyly, all aware that they were standing on the grounds of the Crown Princess herself.
Maribel stepped back politely. "Your Highness, they are here."
I watched them for a moment, then stepped forward. "There is no need for bows," I said calmly. "Please, sit. Have some biscuits and tea."
A few women hesitated, glancing at one another uncertainly, but they eventually complied, seating themselves at the long table. The attendants quietly placed small trays of biscuits and teacups before each of them.
From the side, I noticed the cluster of reporters, pens poised, eyes flicking from me to the gathering crowd. A faint smile curved my lips. "Perfect," I murmured.
