Rowan and Kaelen left the quiet area around the glacier, heading down toward the heart of the estate and then out into the public areas of the territory.
Kaelen took him through the vibrant, bustling marketplace, showing him the unique sights of the North.
Rowan's eyes widened at the stands showcasing frozen flower lilies—delicate blooms preserved perfectly inside thin shells of river ice, glittering like crystal in the light.
Away from the palace, and away from the Emperor's orders, Rowan was actually having fun.
He found himself relaxed, watching Kaelen bargain casually with a merchant for a bag of dried mountain berries, completely devoid of the strict, terrifying aura he usually carried on duty.
By the time the afternoon arrived, the sun had reached the highest point it could manage for the day.
