At first, I thought Alice was using the situation to intimidate Lady Rassel for the imperial family's benefit.

While she was still somewhat emotional, Alice had displayed more calculated and "princess-like" behavior since we returned from Belvur last year. It had become a regular part of her demeanor.

But even after the matter seemed resolved—with an apology from Lady Rassel and a pledge of loyalty to the imperial family—Alice continued glaring at her, sitting silently in the student council room.

Ordinarily, once an apology was given and accepted, the issue would be considered settled. Yet, it seemed that wasn’t enough …