The baroness's afternoon tea was held in the banquet hall of Viscount Sika's Manor.
In fact, this banquet hall was the council chamber handed down through generations of the Sika Family. Since the reign of Aetandin I, countless decisions concerning Sika Territory had originated here.
Quite a few of them had even affected the entire Northern Continent.
However, this was the first time the banquet hall had been used for afternoon tea.
For afternoon tea in Sika Territory, nobles usually chose a garden in summer, enjoying the breeze as they drank tea and ate pastries. In winter, they chose a study or a recreation room instead.
Choosing a study meant entertaining peers or elders.
A recreation room was for the younger generation.
The choice of tea and pastries was also subject to exacting standards.
The whole process was exceedingly complicated, so the baroness usually preferred staying in her bedroom and reading.
This time, when she had no choice but to step forward, she could only grit her teeth and force herself through it, her heart filled with unease.
She feared being questioned.
She also feared arousing suspicion.
She was not good at any of this.
But things went far better than she had imagined.
At least, when she entered the banquet hall, everyone looked at her, but their gazes held no hostility. They were all very courteous.
Phew!
The baroness relaxed slightly and surveyed those present, maintaining an aristocratic smile.
Then she walked toward the seat of honor.
Afternoon tea might seem like casual conversation.
In reality, it followed a very clearly defined hierarchy.
Especially at a time like this, everyone's seat and clothing were strictly prescribed.
The closer someone sat to the seat of honor, the higher their standing.
And the higher their standing, the more lavishly they dressed.