Kevin chuckled. "But she didn't. She won. Quite brilliantly, might I add. That Qin blood really shows."
Eros' expression darkened slightly at the mention of her surname. "So it's true?"
"Yes. She's the youngest of the Qin family. The only daughter. Her eldest brother, Alexander Qin, is in the imperial research corps. While Amiel, her third brother, is in business. The family has been… quiet about her existence for years." Kevin hesitated before adding, "I suppose they were preparing her for the military academy."
Eros leaned back, silent. His fingers tapped rhythmically on the desk. "And the engagement?"
Kevin sighed. "Still valid. The Empire arranged it two years ago as a political alliance. You know that. The Qin family's influence and your military position make a perfect match for the crown's long-term plan. Your union was predetermined, and the imperial oracle has set this in stone."
