The palace stopped pretending after the court session.Before, people watched me with curiosity.Now they watched with intention.Every corridor carried whispers that quieted when I approached. Servants remained respectful, but nobles no longer hid their scrutiny. I could feel their attention pressing against my back like cold water.
I had crossed an invisible line.And there was no returning.Moana adjusted the clasp of my sea-silk robe while studying my reflection thoughtfully.
"You handled the court well," she said.
"I didn't do anything."
"That was exactly what saved you." She replied gently.
I sighed. "I think they hate me."
Moana's smile faded slightly. "Not hate."She hesitated."They fear change."
I turned toward her. "Because I'm human?"
Her eyes softened."Because the Emperor stood beside you."
The words settled heavily inside my chest.
