The other ladies stared at her, their faces edged with a mixture of disgust and curiosity. One wrong word from Viana, one hit of defensiveness, and she could lose the fragile ground she had gained.
She had to explain, clearly and concisely, the truth, without revealing too much, without sounding defiant. This was a dance of words, truly, a strategic maneuver.
"Indeed, Countess. My palace is filled with men, and women too, of my choosing." Her voice steady, clear, reaching every ear in the hushed room.
She paused, allowing her words to sink in, to resonate. Viana's gaze swept over the gathered noblewomen, her expression earnest.
"Elysia, as you know, has faced trials of grievous challenges that demand swift, and also unconventional responses. The blight and the war—these events have made one truth abundantly clear. The kingdom needs capable people, which happens to be mostly men."
