[Silthara Palace — Emperor's Chamber — Night]
Night had settled gently over Silthara Palace.
Beyond the tall carved windows of the Emperor's chamber, the desert sky shimmered beneath a quiet ocean of stars. The moon hung high above the golden towers of Zahryssar, its pale light spilling through the lattice screens and painting silver patterns across the marble floor.
Inside the chamber, the air was warm and calm.
Oil lamps flickered softly along the walls, their flames dancing like small golden serpents in the stillness.
Upon the wide velvet couch near the balcony sat Levin. One leg rested beneath him as he leaned against the armrest, a parchment held loosely between his fingers. The seal had already been broken.
His father's letter.
The familiar handwriting had made his chest soften the moment he opened it. Between Levin's legs, kneeling upon the carpeted floor, was Zeramet.
