I finished adjusting my hair in the mirror, smoothing stray strands and checking the drape of my gown one last time after checkingmy stats.
My reflection stared back with calm assurance, though my pulse still hummed with the anticipation of visiting the Queen.
Nero, this better not be another "wake up your emotional instability" trap.
[Relax, host. Consider it a social outing. With royals. No traps. Probably.]
I took a steadying breath and left my chambers. The corridor was quiet, the sounds of servants muted behind closed doors.
Liora and Maribel were already waiting near the carriage. Liora's expression was composed but curious, her eyes following every motion as I approached.
"We're ready," I said.
She nodded. "I am ready, Your Highness."
[She sounds so dutiful. Are you sure you didn't just summon a miniature general?]
Shut up.
