Rose's POV
It might be because, I was an orphan in my past life, but the passing of my current body's mother didn't bother me much. Although I'm a bit disappointed, I thought that in this new life, I could experience a family, I'm used to how fate treats me though.
But, I'll honor her wishes, even if it means that I'll live my life as a girl. After all, I occupied her son's body, this is the least I could do.
To do this, I must plan ahead and gain as much information as possible.
From the first day, my only ally left currently is my mother's personal maid, Mira. I still don't know if I could fully trust her but I'll continue to observe.
These days, I've been sharpening my ears for useful information, and what I've got so far is that: there is only 1 Empress, which is my deceased mother, 2 Imperial Consorts and Countless Concubines. The 1st Consort has 2 sons, both are older that me. The 2nd Consort has a son and a daughter. I must be especially careful of them! And I've finally made sense about the wish of my mother, turns out, only a male can inherit the throne, so a princess is significantly in a safer position. I truly am grateful, even in death, she's still thinking about my safety, I feel warm and I deeply regret not being able to be with her.
The component of the nobility seemed to be the same in European settings: The Emperor, Grand Duke, Duke, Marquis, Count, Viscount, and Baron. Anything beyond are called civilians and slaves.
Based on my past knowledge about succession, betrayal and bloodshed always follows that is why, I need to get used to this quickly and protect myself! In order to survive, I'm willing to do anything!