Two days had passed since Grim's conversation with the voice. Within the royal wing, Empress Alexia walked the familiar path to her daughter's chambers, nodding to the guards who stood at attention as she passed.
Princess Liona's rooms were a reflection of her character. Books lined several walls, interspersed with maps. The princess herself sat at her desk, writing in a journal when her mother entered. She rose immediately, offering a formal curtsy.
"Mother," she greeted, straightening. "I wasn't expecting you until this evening."
"The agricultural council concluded early," Alexia replied, embracing her daughter briefly. Her eyes scanned the room, noting a small lacquered box on the desk. "What's this?"
Liona's expression brightened subtly. "A gift. It arrived three days ago."
Alexia raised an eyebrow, moving toward the desk. "May I?"
"Of course."
