[The Imperial Palace — Later — Princess Seraphina's Private Garden]
The private garden of the Crown Princess remained untouched by the troubles of the world; snow rested upon distant rooftops. Yet within the garden...spring bloomed.
Golden flowers swayed gently beneath enchanted lanterns. White blossoms climbed marble pillars. The air carried the fragrance of jasmine and moon lilies, and beneath a silk pavilion...two old friends sat across from one another.
A maid quietly poured fresh tea, then disappeared, leaving them alone. For a while...only the sound of birds filled the silence.
Then Seraphina lifted her cup. "I heard Lady Aerlia wishes to leave the Empire."
Levin glanced toward her, his fingers wrapped around the warm porcelain; a small smile appeared as he took a sip.
"It isn't exactly that. She simply wishes to travel." His gaze drifted toward the flowers. "Honestly...I think it is better than locking herself away inside a manor and letting old wounds consume her."
