Lies

“Helena!”

I ignored whoever called my name and continued embroidering a tiny hat for my soon-to-be baby who I am expecting to come on the last day of the next month. I smiled while I look at my work: a baby hat made of silk with a white cloud embroidered on it.

It has been a long time since I made something and it was surprising that I found peace while stitching this small thing in my hand.

Too bad I can only enjoy it for a very short time.

“Helena! A soldier came from downtown and told the Emperor that King Laurent was missing! All of his men were massacred in one of the alleys of that place but no one has an idea where the King is!”

I raised an eyebrow, continuing what I was doing while listening to one of the council members—a pudgy old man with a sickening grin on his face. He seemed pleased about the news, making it so obvious to me his huge dislike for the new member of the council.

“And?” I asked, giving no interest in it.

“Are you not thrilled about it?! That means less ally