[Bonus chapter]The first sign she denied to see

"It is my honor to be chosen as your lady-in-waiting, Your Majesty." 

Silvia curtsied in front of the empress inside the latter's sitting room. When Silvia raised her head, a gentle smile appeared on Florence's face.

"Marchioness, you don't have to be so formal. Take a seat." Florence motioned her hand to the settee across from her seat. As soon as Silvia sat down, the empress sized her up.

Just by looking at Silvia and the air surrounding her lady-in-waiting, she could tell the rumors were true. Before the empress, Silvia was known to be the noblest woman on the continent. With her enchanting beauty aside, Silvia's contribution to the empire was something that empowered a lot of women — one of them was Florence.