"Since it is a serious matter," she said calmly, "then it naturally cannot be delayed."
This sentence neither denied anything nor continued to pursue the matter.
It itself represented giving way.
Arthur felt a sense of relief in his heart, yet he maintained his posture of bowing with his head lowered, without speaking a word more.
Victoria immediately seized this opportunity to follow the flow.
She stood up swiftly: "Mother, I'll go to the study first to handle some documents. I have arrangements this morning, so I won't accompany you in the dining room."
The Duchess of Kent looked at her without objection: "Very well, don't tire yourself out."
Victoria nodded slightly, then turned to Arthur, her tone slightly lighter than before but allowing no disagreement: "Sir Arthur, after you've finished breakfast, come to the study to find me."
Arthur bowed and replied, "As you command, Your Majesty."
Victoria did not linger any longer and turned to leave the table.
