The Assistant's Misunderstanding

The Princess continued speaking, surrounded by her Ladies-in-waiting.

"I mentioned to my Assistant a few times, rather subtly, that it seemed interesting, but he misunderstood that as my wanting to participate."

The Ladies-in-waiting busily combed Bibi's hair, painted her nails, dressed her, and tied her laces.

A white velvet curtain was drawn between her and me, so I could only see her dark silhouette.

"I see."

"I apologize for my Assistant submitting our application without even asking. It was my oversight."

"So, we have no choice but to participate. Are you alright with this, Princess?"

"It's troublesome, but I suppose I must move. Submitting an application only to immediately withdraw would be akin to mocking the Long-standing Tradition."

I feigned agreement. We all knew it would come to this, one way or another.

"If it were a Swordsmanship Tournament, I'd be confident, but I don't know what kind of event this is, so I'm unsure."...