Two days later, Mikhail sat at his newly repaired study desk.
Maria stood beside him in silence.
The door opened.
Gwenllian entered and immediately knelt before him, her helmet still on.
"You summoned me, your Majesty?"
Mikhail leaned back in his chair.
"Ah, Gwenllian. Yes. I wished to speak with you."
He stood, walked around the desk, and leaned against it in front of her.
She kept her head down.
"Before you decide my fate..." Her voice was tight, controlled. "I want to apologize for everything I've done. It was never my intention to offend you. But I would rather die than raise my sword against the Crown Prince."
Mikhail looked down at her for a long moment.
Then he sighed.
"Yes. I understand your conviction, Valecrown." He paused. "But tell me—you've heard about the war, haven't you? How I led the charge and saved Eldrath from annihilation?"
"Yes, my Lord. I've heard many stories from the common folk." Her voice softened. "Which is why I'm so proud to serve you. Yet... I'm afraid I might not meet the expectations of such a capable leader as yourself, your Majesty."
Mikhail's expression darkened slightly.
"The war taught me many things. That things are not always as they seem. And to never trust anyone."
He knelt down before her, meeting her eye level.
"And I especially don't trust people who hide their faces."
Gwenllian's head snapped up. She reached for her helmet and removed it quickly, setting it aside.
Her black hair fell loose. Her young face was pale, anxious.
Mikhail nodded.
"See? Much better. You don't need to wear that helmet all the time while you're in the palace." He paused. "You're not at war. Yet."
She bowed deeply.
"Understood, your Majesty."
Mikhail stood and leaned back against the desk.
"Now then. I'm going to tell you a few things. And you will treat them with the utmost secrecy."
"Absolutely, your Majesty."
Mikhail's voice dropped, cold and clear.
"I don't trust the Church. Neither do I trust those who operate within it. Even though you're a Holy Knight—even the future Vice Commander—I ask that anything you hear from me, they must not get even a whisper of."
Gwenllian's voice was firm.
"I understand, your Majesty. I would rather die than betray the Crown."
Mikhail nodded slowly.
"Good. Good." He paused. "When Hilowat held your position, he didn't follow me around the palace constantly. I despise being shadowed everywhere. But you're inexperienced. So I'll allow you to accompany me. Watch. Learn."
Her head bowed again.
"It will be my honor."
Mikhail smiled faintly.
"That will be enough. Stand."
Gwenllian rose to her feet.
Mikhail turned to Maria.
"Maria. Did you do what I asked?"
Maria nodded.
"Yes, my Lord. The Emperor has heeded your word. He's ready for your private meeting."
Mikhail's smile turned sharp.
"Good."