After Alwin's explanation, they finally entered the meeting room.
"My apologies for being late," the Empress immediately apologized.
"Greetings, Your Majesty," Raymond did the usual greeting. "Not at all. The Pope is not here yet anyway."
Clarisse tried to stand to greet properly, so once again, Raymond stopped her and explained to the Empress, "My apologies, Your Majesty. Clarisse hadn't been feeling well lately, so I didn't want to strain her before the check-up was conducted."
"Raymond, you're exaggerating. Just standing for a few seconds should be fine," Clarisse chided, but Raymond did not back down.
The Empress chuckled and said, "Clarisse, please relax. Save it for the greeting with the Pope. We're not strangers, after all. I am more concerned with your health than any formalities."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Clarisse and Raymond said in unison.
Alwin escorted the Empress until she was seated beside Clarisse.
"I rather feel bad; I haven't visited you more. "
