After making our way through the hall, greeting nobles and dignitaries with every step, Miss Celesti and I finally arrived at the chamber where the imperial family awaited us.

Suddenly, a wave of nerves washed over me. The thought of standing before royalty made cold sweat gather at the back of my neck.

This is nerve-wracking, I thought to myself, forcing my expression into something calm—something composed.

The grand doors creaked open, and Miss Celesti stepped forward with her usual serene poise. "Your Imperial Majesty, it is I, Celesti Fae Delfin," she announced.

Inside the chamber stood five figures, unmistakably regal in their bearing.

Together, Miss Celesti and I stepped inside and offered a deep bow. "Good day, Your Imperial Majesty," we said in unison.

"Enough with the formalities, Celesti. You’re still part of this family," the emperor said with a warm yet commanding tone.

It was then that I learned something I had only vaguely suspected—Miss Celesti Fae Delfin, the revered high priestess of the Hue Shrine, was of royal blood. The emperor’s stepsister, to be exact. Though they held no animosity between them, she had long ago chosen the sacred path of the priesthood over life within the palace walls.

"I’ve come to present to you the new Saintess," Miss Celesti continued, "and to finalize the plans for her role in the empire’s future." She turned slightly, giving me a subtle nod.

Taking a breath, I stepped forward. "Good day, Your Imperial Majesty. I am Seraphina Ivory, the newly chosen Saintess of the Hue Shrine." I offered another bow, hands clasped before me in practiced grace.

A gentle smile crossed the emperor’s face. "Welcome, Seraphina. I understand you’ve only been here a short while. I am Reis Emberspear, Emperor of this realm."

"It’s true I’ve only been here a few days," I replied, lifting my eyes to meet his, "but Miss Celesti has already taught me much about the empire, and about you and your esteemed family, Your Imperial Majesty."

"Well, isn’t she just the loveliest thing?" the empress said, her voice light and affectionate. "Wouldn’t you agree, Val?"

The Imperial Family—formidable in presence and unmatched in elegance—stood before me in full. The Emberspears.

Born with distinct charcoal-black hair, a sacred mark of their bloodline, they ruled with a blend of strength and compassion. Emperor Reis was known for ushering in a golden age of agricultural innovation, lifting vast regions from poverty. His wife, Her Royal Highness Solavita Emberspear—graceful, commanding, and hailing from the noble Deillao Dukedom—stood beside him. Their children: the stoic crown prince, Valerian Raven Emberspear, heir to the throne; and the radiant Princess Eilith Remara Emberspear, beloved across the empire.

Just as I began to regain my composure, the Crown Prince stood, wordless. He approached, took my hand, and—without hesitation—pressed a soft kiss upon it.

My heart leapt.

Flushed with surprise, I instinctively pulled my hand away, forgetting all royal etiquette in that moment. My eyes widened in panic.

"I-I’m so sorry! My deepest apologies, Your Highness!" I stammered, bowing so low I thought I might collapse. "I didn’t mean to act so rudely—I’m just not used to this! P-Please have mercy!"

Silence followed. Then—

A warm, booming laugh erupted from the emperor.

"It’s alright, Saintess," he said, clearly amused. "There’s no need to fear the Crown Prince. As our empire’s Saintess, you stand on equal ground with him."

Still bent low in apology, I replied quickly, "Even so, Your Majesty, I believe in giving due respect. I acted improperly, and for that, I beg the Crown Prince’s forgiveness."

"It’s fine," Valerian said quietly. His voice was calm, but held a gravity I could feel. "You needn’t bow so low. I was the one out of line."

Miss Celesti’s hand rested gently on my shoulder, coaxing me to rise. Without a word about the incident, she turned to the emperor.

"As we discussed yesterday," she said firmly, "I’d like to finalize our plans for Seraphina’s future while she’s present."

Before he could reply, the Empress interjected with a smile. "Must it be now? Why don’t we talk while eating? You both must be tired."

---

We were soon seated at the grand dining table. Platters of fine delicacies were passed around, and polished silver cutlery clinked against porcelain plates. But despite the elegance of it all, I could only hear the sound of nerves echoing in my ears.

I glanced at Miss Celesti, hoping for a sign—a conversation starter, perhaps.

As though reading my mind, she gently set down her utensils. "Shall we begin the discussion now? I must still present the Saintess at the town square before nightfall."

The emperor chuckled, swirling his wine. "The night is still young, Celesti. Why the rush? Can’t you spare an hour with your dear brother?"

Miss Celesti narrowed her eyes. "Your Imperial Majesty," she said, her voice sharp, "that sort of behavior is unbecoming of an emperor. I would suggest you act accordingly."

The room tensed.

"She’s right," said the empress softly, placing a hand on her husband’s arm. "Still, don’t be too hard on him. It’s rare you’re both in the same place. He’s just… excited."

"I’d prefer we focus on Seraphina’s future," Miss Celesti replied. Though her tone softened, a trace of icy resolve remained.

Then, casually, the emperor spoke again—this time with a sly glint in his eye. "Among the many things to discuss, I believe the matter of her marriage should be a priority."

I froze.

M-marriage? My mind reeled. Already? I’ve only been here for barely three days!

"Marriage?" I repeated in a whisper.

"That is out of the question!" Miss Celesti snapped, now clearly angry. "I came here to hold a serious council, not entertain foolish ideas. If this is how today’s conversation will proceed, then I see no point in continuing it."

Without another word, she stood—abandoning her plate—and pulled me to my feet.

"Miss Celesti, is it truly alright to leave like this?" I asked, glancing anxiously over my shoulder as the royal family watched us go.

"Don’t worry," she replied with a sigh. "He won’t be offended. He’s my doting brother, beneath all that theatrics."

We made our way swiftly through the palace until we reached the main door connecting to the grand ballroom’s exterior. There, the cool air met us, and beyond the stone steps, a white carriage awaited—emblazoned with the sacred symbol of the Hue Shrine.

"That carriage will take you to the town square," she said, her tone more composed. "Priest Leander and Meris will meet you there. Four paladins will ride with you for protection."

As she opened the door and stepped aside, one of the armored paladins approached and offered a respectful bow.

"I have a separate matter to attend to," Miss Celesti added. "I must meet with the dukes. It’s important. For now, you’ll be on your own, Seraphina—but trust that you are not alone."

She gave me one final nod—steady, reassuring—and turned away.

I stepped into the carriage, the doors closing gently behind me.

The ride to the town square had begun.