Chapter 77: The Emperor’s Woman (9)
Three months later, on the day of the emperor’s birthday banquet.
“Congratulations, Father,” Apollonia said, bowing in a graceful manner. She was clad in a frilly pink dress.
The emperor acknowledged her words with a nod but didn’t pay her much attention. Despite being in his mid-forties, he still maintained a commanding presence. Even without being on the battlefield, he held his sword, and his eyes carried the fierceness of a beast.
“It seems Aunt Petra hasn’t arrived yet,” Apollonia remarked, scanning the surroundings.
Ever since Ruwan Merchants retreated from the southern regions of the empire due to the Idena Merchants, she had been occupied with her business and didn’t visit the palace frequently.
“She mentioned being busy,” he replied, his gaze lingering over the banquet hall from his elevated seat. The spot next to him, Petra’s usual place, remained empty as always.
