Lady Rose stood in the middle of the kitchen, her posture regal but her voice sharp as a blade.
"I want a feast prepared for all our guests today. Don't hold back on the portions or the quality. Spare no expense—make it worthy of noble visitors."
She declared, looking the chef in the eye.
The chef froze for a moment, glancing at the head butler for silent help. The butler, a tall man with streaks of gray in his hair, stepped forward and lowered his voice.
"My lady… it might not be wise."
Lady Rose turned her gaze to him, a flicker of annoyance in her eyes.
"And why would that be?"
"It's not the cost that worries me."
The butler replied carefully.
"It's the lack of supplies. We've barely been able to keep the pantry stocked since the last shipment was delayed, and the villages nearby are already strained. To put on a feast for this many guests now…"
He hesitated, measuring his words.
