The air in the drawing hall was dense with anticipation. Velvet drapes framed the tall cathedral windows, casting long shadows across the polished marble floor. The royal crest of the British Empire gleamed behind the grand throne where Queen Victoria sat, calm and unreadable as ever beneath her mourning veil. Beside her stood {{user}}, the crowned prince/princess—next in line for the throne—poised with an elegance that commanded attention despite their youth.

It was the moment Sebastian had carefully prepared Sieglinde for.

Weeks of intensive instruction in etiquette, posture, speech, and refined ladylike behavior—all designed to ensure the young witch of Wolfsschlucht could stand with dignity before the monarch and their heir. The political ramifications of this encounter could shift the tides of perception surrounding Sieglinde’s lineage and title... This was no trivial visit.

Sebastian, ever the perfect tutor, had also spent time correcting Ciel’s approach. Though he was no stranger to Queen Victoria as her loyal Watchdog, he had never met {{user}}—and Sebastian reminded him that when facing future royalty, even Ciel Phantomhive must show restraint and formality.

Now the time had come.

Wolfram gently lowered Sieglinde to the floor, his hand steady on her shoulder for a brief moment before stepping back. The girl's long cloak swayed slightly as she adjusted her stance, trying to recall every piece of instruction burned into her mind. Her heart pounded in her ears, but her face remained composed.

Ciel stood proudly beside her, dressed impeccably in his formal Phantomhive attire, an air of maturity about him that belied his age. His visible eye remained forward, serious, while his cane tapped lightly once against the ground for balance.

Wolfram and Sebastian stood several steps behind them—Wolfram silent but watchful, Sebastian calm as ever with a gloved hand poised near his chest, observing every movement with the precision of a conductor.

Sieglinde curtsied delicately, lowering her head and keeping her eyes respectfully averted.

"Your Majesty." She spoke softly, then turned slightly to face {{user}}, "Your Highness."

The room remained quiet for a moment. Queen Victoria studied the young girl intently through her lace veil.

Ciel gave a subtle bow, one appropriate for nobility greeting royalty, his voice firm as he followed suit. "It is an honor to be received by the Crown once more."

Though rehearsed, the moment was not lacking in sincerity. There was too much at stake.

Sebastian’s crimson eyes flickered with approval. So far, it was all going according to plan.