It seemed like Lady Elara's husband had fallen into the clutches of the 'leech,' and that was why she was so bitter about the mention of the princess.
"Liora, dear," the Empress called, her voice regaining its fragile composure as she turned to her daughter. "Would you like to take your master around my palace? Cassian should be done with sword training by now as well."
Liora's face brightened instantly as she hopped off her chair with no hesitation. She grabbed Julian's sleeve with a small tug, her small fingers surprisingly strong.
"Yes, Mother! I want to show him the Glasshouse," Liora chirped, already pulling Julian toward the exit. "The flowers there are much more interesting."
Julian rose and offered a final, deep bow to the Empress and the assembled ladies, his [Mental Stability] holding steady at 28%. The relief that came with the tea party was over, and the reality of his confinement was waiting for him beyond the glass.
