Usually, you needed an invitation to enter the Imperial Palace.
Even when you had one, every movement was watched. Guards escorted visitors through specific halls, servants announced every guest, and no one was allowed anywhere near the Imperial family's private residences without permission.
But things for me were never usual.
Not when Nathan was literally the Crown Prince.
The moment my carriage stopped before the palace gates, one of the imperial knights recognized me. His eyes widened ever so slightly before he walked over with a respectful bow.
"Lady Deor."
I smiled pleasantly. "Good morning."
"You may proceed, my lady."
Behind him, another guard quickly ordered the palace gates opened. The heavy iron barriers slowly parted, allowing my carriage to roll into the palace grounds without the usual inspection every other noble was subjected to.
Harper looked at me from across the carriage.
"They didn't even ask for proof."
"They already have it."
