But remember this wont happen again in the future.

Yes, Ill keep that in mind.

I bowed before the Emperor as low as possible.

The Emperor gestured with his chin, pointing towards the entrance to the garden.

I dont want to see you, begone from my sight.

***

After Charlize had left.

The pervading tone of the venue was all but cold and bleak.

Because of that young maid, the atmospheres transformed into this

Just then, Count Bart, a noble, inserted himself into the conversation.

Harsher on her, only then will she do whats she told.

What is that nobleman going on about?

The Empress dowager hardened her face.

Unfortunately for the nobleman, he didnt notice the Empress dowagers fierce gaze and continued speaking carelessly.

Besides, that child is already mature for her age, I see no reason to get so attached to someone.

Well, I dont see any reason why thats your concern, Count Bart. Dont get so attached.

The Empress dowager said in a scornful voice.

Charlize is a maid of the Empresss palace.

Why of course she is, I dont doubt that. However, I dont think having a maid like her will do you any favors.

As if that wasnt enough, the nobleman added insult to injury, whispering to the Empress dowager.

By the way, Your Majesty. Why dont you think of searching for a new maid? Someone better if you will?

Stop, are you suggesting that I replace my maid?

Yes, Your Majesty. Ill even help you. Finding maids with the right talents is so hard these daysluckily, I have someone. My youngest daughter.

Count Bart said so with a grin.

I cherish my daughter even spoiled her a bit but for her Majestys sake, I am willing to give her to you.

Count Bart.

Gasp.

That sharp reaction from the Empress dowager took Count Bart by surprise, he shuddered as his shoulders hardened.

Her Majesty with an intimidating gaze was looking at the Count straight in the eyes.

Is the Count giving instructions on whats best for the Empress dowager?

Ohthats, its not like.

I choose my people. Dont you dare interfere and presume you know whats best for me.

The Empress dowager told him bluntly.

Her expression could send shivers down any mans spine, in that moment she was like a wolf ready to devour Count Bart, a misguided lamb.

Then, the Emperor got up abruptly.

Then Ill be taking my leave now.

Are you returning to the Imperial palace, Your Majesty?

Yes. I remember I have some urgent matters to attend to.

When asked by the Empress dowager, his Majesty merely nodded in agreement to move things along.

Of course, I have urgent matters was just an excuse, in reality, he couldnt accept that things didnt go as he anticipated. His irritation was getting the better of him hence his departure.

Come and read on our website wuxia worldsite. Thanks

Well, then Ill do it!

At that moment, Count Bart got up from his seat with a relieved expression as if he had survived an attempt on his life.

The Emperor looked at Count Bart with pitiful eyes before licking his lips and lying.

Well then mother, Ill see you next time.

Obviously, no one believed that.

The Empress dowagers expression was calm, she simply smiled brightly and responded gracefully.

Yes, Ill happily await your next visit.

* * *

And so, the lengthy tea time was concluded.

The Empress and the Duke walked side by side, having a conversation as sister and brother.

I wanted Charlize to come back with me.

The Empress pouted and grumbled a little.

At first, the Empress was going to have Charlize return with her but the Empress dowager made a sincere request.

When the guests left one by one, said their farewells and thanked the Empress dowager for the venue. She approached the Empress.

Can I send Charlize back a little later?

Oh? Well, may I know why?

Its because I havent even properly thanked her.

Ah..alright..

Since the Empress dowager had gone out of her to tell the Empress, it was hard to say no.

The Empress dowager smiled slightly, giving a curtsy but the Empress as she turned to leave, couldnt help but get a little teary-eyed knowing she would go back without her precious Charlize.

Oh, and.

Yes?

I will never forget the help youve given me today, Empress.

It was a thank you for tea leaves, teacups, and tea utensils.

The Empress dowager knew about it.

The Empress in response gave a smile to her Majesty.

Meanwhile, the Duke who had been quietly listening to his sisters grumblings finally spoke.

That little child.

Little? Oh, you mean Charlize?

The Duke who narrowed his eyebrows for a bit voiced his thoughts.

Shes more than I expected.. shes clever.

What?

The sudden compliment by her brother had the Empress totally stunned. It wasnt like him.

Thats all I wanted to say.

The Duke once again closed his mouth, lost in thought.

I use to think she was just a lucky child that somehow obtained my sisters favor. I saw her as undeserving of it.

She was as my sister said, cute but that was about it. Nothing more than a little kid.

I considered every time she helped Rose in one way or another during the dinner, a coincidence.

Now I find myself pondering, theres something more to her.

More than meets the eye, its because of her, this dinner went smoothly.well better than I imagined. Its like she has some special power

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep