Even though she had stepped down, even though Samuel sat on the throne and wore the crown, the shadow of the woman who had single-handedly dismantled the old noble factions and forced the empire into stability still loomed large over every corridor. To them, she wasn't just a retired princess; she was the architect of their current reality.She reached her private office, pushing the door open without a knock.
Predictably, Demerti was already there. He was sitting at his auxiliary desk, sorting through a neat stack of parchment, but the moment the door opened, he practically bolted to his feet. He looked tired, the dark circles under his eyes contrasting with his sharp, professional attire. He looked every bit the thirty-three-year-old man who was balancing the weight of an imperial administration with the domestic demands of a young family.
"Master," Demerti greeted, his voice a mix of profound respect and palpable relief. "You're here."
