Book 2: Chapter 21 (P2)
The empress chuckled and then stamped her feet, and said: “Don’t be so nervous, son. You’re my son. Nobody will say anything even if my cape does touch the floor. You’re not a professional at it. I just want to have my own child help me with it.”
“Understood.”
Perhaps it implies that a sovereign is indicating their favour for someone by allowing them to hold the hem of their cape or clothing. We are talking about a sovereign after all. Nobody is allowed to make a mistake around a sovereign, even more so when they’re permitted to accompany the sovereign to such events. The empress adjusted the black veil in front of her face and then said: “Let’s go, son. Haha, this is the first time I’m attending a ball with my son. I’m a bit nervous. Son, I suddenly want to dance with you, what do you think?”
I was so frightened I froze up. I then said: “I uhh… I don’t know how to…”
“It’s fine. Would they dare to laugh if you couldn’t dance? Let’s do it!”
The empress is a little over-excited today…
“Let’s go!”
The curtain before us suddenly opened and the bright-blinding light shined onto my face. The smell of perfumes and food came rushing over together. The noisy chattering in the room suddenly came to a stop. As I held the empress’s cape, I did my best to maintain the tranquillity she was showing. I scanned the luxurious dance hall after my eyes adjusted to the strong lights. I saw the men and women on both sides in lavish clothing bow. The empress raised her head and slowly walked forth with the aura of a sovereign as I followed behind. Nier had her head down with her hand on her sword handle as she casually followed. I was the only one behind the empress shuffling his feet like a clown.
“Long live your majesty!”