The Legend of the Reclusive Princess Zuicho of the Rikan Empire ~She Escapes From The Palace Everyday and Works as a Capable Government Official.~ - Chapter 4

In the middle of this terribly busy morning, Saya was inwardly grumbling, “Don’t drag me into something so pointless right now…” But on the outside, she showed deep apology with her whole body.

“I deeply apologize for causing discomfort to everyone because of my carelessness…”

She slowly lowered herself into a formal bow—an elegant one used by noblewomen—bowing her head as she carefully explained herself.

This is how I have to act in front of them.

If I show that I know my place, and if I act like I’m beneath them, they’ll accept it. That’s how it works.

(How simple they are… Even the stubborn officials at the Ministry of the Personnel won’t budge just by seeing numbers.)

She kept a perfect poker face and held her respectful pose. Not even a trace of sarcasm could be seen.

She was good at this kind of back-and-forth, this type of mental endurance battle. Or rather—she had no choice but to get good at it.

She had spent five years in the palace, caught between a court full of greedy women and government posts full of schemers. If she wanted to survive peacefully, this kind of cunning face was absolutely necessary.

(Now then, after all that, there’s no way a “kind” lady like you can’t forgive me… right?)

As if following a script, Saya waited for the next words. Finally, Rangetsu’s red lips parted.

“Well now, everyone. Isn’t that enough? If she’s from a common background, it’s no wonder she lacks manners. It is our duty as the educated ones to guide her. Otherwise, she might never get the chance to learn.”

“Oh my… Lady Rangetsu, how kind you are, even toward a girl like her.”

“Such merciful words… I’m so touched!”

With a voice as beautiful as the sound of bells—just right for her stunning looks, Rangetsu’s followers began praising her blindly.

Even though what she was really saying was “Commoners should know their place and obey the noble,” somehow they still managed to compliment her for it.

(Also, “girl”? I’m already 23 years old…)

Saya wanted to point out that some of them were definitely younger than her, but she knew better than to expect people in the palace to treat others according to age.

In this world, family background, looks, and how much favor you receive from His Majesty will decide your rank. Nothing else matters.

So far, Saya had been safe, thanks to the Emperor ignoring the inner palace completely and focusing only on his official duties, well, aside from formal ceremonies.

…At least, that used to be the case.

Everything changed when a new girl entered the palace not long ago—someone who broke the clear hierarchy that had always been based on social status.

They said she spent the night with the Emperor.

That rumor caused a shockwave through the palace. Thanks to that, the others had become harsher toward Saya too. It was an annoyance, to say the least.

After making her position obvious and feeling satisfied, Lady Rangetsu smiled softly and looked around.

“Now then, wasting time on such a trivial matter is simply not worth it. Let’s go, everyone.”

“You’re absolutely right, Lady Rangetsu.”

“I had many flower petals prepared today. If we float them in the large bath, I’m sure it will look beautiful.”

“Oh my, I’m looking forward to that!”

At Rangetsu’s words, the group began walking away, as if they had completely lost interest in Saya.

As they passed, they gave her cold, hateful looks. Saya could only sigh in her heart and think, I’ll never be able to get along with people like this.

She stayed quiet and waited for them to pass, keeping her head bowed in full respect—as tradition dictated: “Do not raise your head until the noble person is out of sight.” It also helped hide the color of her eyes, which was convenient.

Even when she heard Lady Rangetsu’s cold voice saying, “You should get rid of those earrings,” Saya didn’t even flinch.

(Honestly… what a trivial thing to care about.)