“Princess,” Zen says calmly, his voice carrying in the still air “It’s been long.” A derisive huff, and the Princess leans her face against a fist “Empress Regent. I see you’re still as impudent as ever, Sigmond.” Amber eyes slip to me, and I flinch before I can stop myself. A sharp smile curves a
I know he told me to have faith, but at this rate we won’t even have time to look for a gravesite. Before I can think better of it, my hand reaches for the sleeve of his jacket. At once, both Zen and the Empress turn their attention to me. I swallow thickly, but keep my chin up and my gaze on Zen.
“I shall escort you to your lodging,” He says, and unlike before, his voice is free of any emotion I can’t quantize my relief when we start towards the doors of the hall. Holy shit, that was— “Zepherin Sigmond.” At once, the three of us stop. I don’t want to look away, but when Zen turns, I make
We pass through the gardens. Cold breeze blows through the vast expanse of open space. The snowfall from last night has melted some, leaving little slushes of melted snow around, which servants are busy cleaning. “The gardens are a sight to behold in the spring,” Zen tells me, noticing my stare “I
“I’d like someone to escort me to the drill hall.” Zen says casually, and without a hint of even thinking they might reject I’m in awe, really. I don’t think I can ever manage to sound that blatantly authoritative. “Very well, My Lord,” Andrea gestures with a hand, and a boy steps forward “Would t
Understanding seems to flicker over her face “The Imperial family is blessed by the goddess, and their abilities surpass those of a normal man by large. His Highness was sent on his own request.” I nod, absorbing the information. We enter a hall with portraits lining the walls. Andrea tells me bri
I have to give it to them, their expressions don’t change in the slightest. Andrea shows me more of the palace, we pass through a series of arched doorways, enter the grand ballroom, a breathtaking space where the royal court would gather for grand festivities. Our recent conversation and sightse
The last time I was at the palace was a week before the disowning. I remember going to wait in a sitting room while my father and older brothers attended the meeting for the High Houses with the Emperor of that time. “Zen, you come with me today.” Father had put a hand on my shoulder My eyes went