“This reminds me of old times.” After changing into more appropriate clothes, Zen and I sneaked out of the Crystal Palace. Here in the forest behind the Palace, with only the two of us and Sparrow, I’m reminded of that first travel from SeraphFall to Aquiliona. It was one month ago. It feels like
Something about this place, of former glory, overrun and ruined by false accusations, makes it feel reverent. I glance at Zen, but his expression is as inscrutable as ever. For a moment, all he does is stare at the ruins ahead. His home. The place he was supposed to grow up in as the young lord of
“Wow. Your family has some serious hoards of weapons.” I say, pure awe in my voice “The Sigmonds were a military power, huh.” “Indeed. Our warriors were usually at the forefront of every war Greten has ever had to face.” Zen says, and he observes the walls and the tables “My father was a veteran wh
“I was thinking of them on the way here.” Zen says, in a way that sounds a little like protest “It hasn’t been that long, My Lady.” “Out with it then.” I give him a look “You’ve already decided on the names, haven’t you?” The way he’s pointedly avoiding my eyes tells me I hit the nail on the he
I snap out of my haze of thoughts with those words, whirl around to look at Zen with eyes wide in horror of the misunderstanding. “Of course not.” I say quickly, too sharply “I’ve never pitied you.” Zen looks down at me, silver eyes steady and chilling. I feel my throat dry up, my heart unwittingl
“Why are suddenly talking about this, My Lady?” Zen asks, slightly shaking his head “I’m just putting the option out here.” I say, entirely serious “If you ever get sick of this world, there’s another too.” His eyes widen a bit at that “I’m not— “I’m not saying this out of pity or sympathy or any
“Who did you make that promise to?” I ask, my own voice just as quiet For a long moment, Zen says nothing. I open my mouth to tell him he doesn’t need to tell me, but his voice sounds out before mine can. “My father. It was the last thing he said to me.” I swallow whatever I was about to say. All
In the Crystal Palace, it has become somewhat of a nightly occurrence to have tea a little before sleeping. At least, a little before Dinah falls asleep. I myself, would be wide awake until the early hours of the day. “Shall I set the tray on the low table, Your Lordship?” I give a nod, and Dinah’