Even as my heart pounds in my chest—faster than it has in a long, long time—I keep my composure.
I must. I am a princess, after all.
No matter how dazzling she looks in the golden light.
No matter how much the sight of her blurs the rest of the world like morning sun piercing through fog.
"Morvena," I say slowly, letting her name linger in the air. My voice rings with solid, imperial authority. "Do you understand the consequences of defying me?"
"Yes," she replies calmly, her voice as steady as ever. "I am fully aware, Your Highness."
"Very good."
Step.
Step Step.
I walk closer.
She remains bowed, her head lowered, her posture perfect—respectful and controlled.
But no, I don't want her to bow.
I want to see her.
I want to see that face.
Thus, I reach out and gently lift her chin with my gloved fingers, gazed down at it like a goddess from above.
"Then look at me, Morvena," I say, my voice a touch quieter, a breath closer. "And answer my question."
