Chapter 58 Dance Dance Revolution

*Ana*

I can hear the sound of strings even before we are at the door, and it only grows louder as we make our way up. Two knights guard the entrance. They glare quietly at Mykhol, but upon seeing me, they brighten. They bow with a smile directed at me.

“Your Empress, Lord Mykhol.” They greet me in unison and stay smiling as they look up at me.

The sight catches me off guard, and I find myself smiling back. It’s a reflex, but Mykhol doesn’t seem to like it. Mykhol taps his foot before holding my hand closer.

“Well?” Mykhol goes with a measured stare between the two.

“Aren’t you going to announce us?”

“Oh-I, yes, m’lord.” And the enormous knight turns to cup his hands over his mouth.

“Announcing Empress Ana-”

“Wait,” I move on my own. I take his hand on reflex.

“Your Empress?” The servant immediately looks back at me with wonder.

So does Mykkhol.

“Ana?”

“Can we…not be announced?” I ask, but both look at me as if I’ve said something foolish.

Mykhol shakes his head at me.

“But cousin,