Rose didn't see him walk into the courtyard, and it wasn't until he spoke that she noticed his presence. "Her Royal Majesty, Queen Violeta Ravenor."
Rose thought it was weird that the steward had to announce her. Everyone knew who was coming, but maybe this was one of the things about royals she couldn't understand.
The Queen didn't walk in alone. There were three ladies with her—one on her left, her right, and behind her. They were dressed differently from the maids, and it was clear they were nobles. They walked with their chins in the air and stared at the maids with contempt.
Rose immediately copied the movements of the servants, bending her head and her knees. She did her best to hold her dress up but failed woefully, so she just kept her hands at her sides. After the curtsy, she noticed the maids took their hands from their sides and held them in front while keeping their heads down. None dared to make eye contact with the Queen.
