Azalea's eyes raked over Portia from head to toe. "Crown Princess," she said slowly, as if tasting something bitter, "why are you dressed so… plainly? The attire doesn't quite befit your station. It may send the wrong message. You see, in this palace, titles mean little if a woman does not enjoy the favor of her husband."
Her smile was sharp. Her next words, spoken low, barely reached Portia's ears.
"If you need guidance on how to keep your husband close… You may come to us."
Violet laughed gently, folding her hands across her chest. "Crown Princess, unlike your mother-in-law, we do not enjoy power through lineage or alliances. We have to rely on… more creative means to ensure His Majesty's affection."
Her eyes twinkled, cruelly amused. "You and I… we're not so different. Your title is official, yes, but your situation? It's just like ours. We are not mocking you, dear. We are simply stating the reality, and offering help in facing it."
