The crowd again broke into a loud cheer, thundering their applause.
A eunuch stepped forward, his voice ringing with deep honor. "Lady Daphne, please come forward to receive your rewards."
Daphne walked elegantly to the center of the garden.
The Empress watched in silent fury. She had never seen such a complete and undeniable victory. Though it pained her to admit, even to herself, she knew that Daphne truly was an exceptional woman. There was nothing she could say; the crowd's applause was proof of her worth.
As Daphne approached the Emperor, the eunuch announced, "By the will of the Emperor, your title changes from Lady Daphne to Rose Daphne."
The Emperor smiled, and the eunuch continued, "You have also been declared a member of the Royal Court, with the right to attend all courtroom meetings when called upon."
