I cannot believe what I am hearing right now! I had commanded that our House be announced as the sole victor, yet here he is—declaring Gioffre a winner as well.
My heart pounded, and a bitter taste of betrayal and confusion coated my tongue. Is he really saying that Gioffre is meant to share in this triumph? The crowd's applause rained down around us, a deafening chorus of approval that only deepened my internal disquiet.
Gioffre and I ascended the stage where the Emperor stood, his regal presence dominating the assembly. His voice, smooth yet laced with subtle scheming, resonated through the hall as he began, "Also, I wanted to thank the Archduchess; without her, I am not sure what fate would have befallen the Princess." As he spoke, he turned to me and gently clasped both of my hands.
