The corridors of the Summer Palace were quiet at this late hour, the golden sconces along the walls casting long, flickering shadows. A hush had settled over the great halls, not the peace of sleep, but a tense stillness.
Casimir stood before the tall windows of the solar, his arms folded behind his back. Beyond the glass, the gardens sprawled beneath a misting veil of silver. The scent of jasmine was faint even here, teasing the edge of his senses.
Footsteps approached him, soft, measured, and familiar.
He turned as Lady Miranda, chief of his council and steward of the royal household, entered the room. Her grey hair was braided tightly back and her sharp eyes missed nothing.
"My lord," she said, bowing briefly. "Forgive the late hour, but a matter of urgency has arisen."
Casimir arched a brow. "Speak."
Miranda hesitated for half a breath, an unusual thing for her. Then she stepped closer, lowering her voice. "The Seer has come."
