Benitez Grand Theater.
A long line of carriages clogged the entire street, forcing the nobles and wealthy guests attending the Premiere to walk the rest of the way to the Theater.
The Butler, who was also the Stablehand, said helplessly to the carriage, "Madam Benice, we'll have to get out too. The road ahead is blocked."
The attractive woman lifted the carriage curtain, though her complaints and sharp expression spoiled what beauty she had. "Why were those upstarts with no manners invited?"
"Because that King of the North is a strange boy. They say he even keeps an ogre at his manor."
"My heavens. No wonder so many children have gone missing in the city lately."
The Butler helped the startled Madam Benice down from the carriage. Like a canary preening its feathers, she adjusted her broad-brimmed hat and looked around with a scowl.
"There are more people at Royal Family banquets, and they're never this chaotic."
The invitees came from all walks of life: Councilors, Mercenaries, Adventurers. The Square outside the Theater was a breeding ground for chaos.
"Breeze City can't compare to the Royal Capital, of course," the Butler said, obligingly flattering her.
Madam Benice held her head high as she crossed the Square with practiced elegance. After presenting her Invitation Letter, she left the Butler outside and entered the Theater.
The Theater, which could seat nearly a thousand people, was almost full. More than half the nobles in Breeze City were here.
"When I was in the Royal Capital..."
She settled into her seat near the back and had to remove her hat because of the crowd. With no one to listen, her complaints trailed off.
The truly important guests, such as the Councilors and members of the Ancient Families, sat in the front rows and the