[Silthara Palace—Ancestral Hall—The Next Day]
Morning light spilled across Levin's table in soft gold ribbons, warm and gentle compared to last night's storm. Outside the open lattice windows, birds trilled their morning hymns, hopping along the stone railings.
On the floor, Asha and Lyserph were rolling over each other—two small, scaled palace creatures purring and nipping playfully. Levin couldn't help the quiet smile tugging at his lips.
Then his hand drifted to his abdomen.
"The recent incident put me in a strain… but after last night… I don't feel that uncomfortable tug anymore."
Heat blossomed faintly on his cheeks as the memory rose without warning.
Zeramet. Kneeling.
Kneeling for him.
The Serpent Emperor, bowing his proud head to Levin's trembling hands.
"I never thought… he would kneel for me… and would apologize," Levin murmured internally, chest softening.
A blush warmed the shadow under his veil—
"Malika."
