The next day, dawn broke faintly.
Outside the Silent Court, the moss on the stone bridge looked all the greener in the damp air of early April. The carriage stopped at the bridgehead. Diana did not let the coachman drive any farther; this was the most basic mark of respect for His Highness.
She stepped out of the carriage wearing a long gown of gold and white. Its design was dignified and elegant, with intricate, subtle patterns embroidered in silver thread on its high collar and fitted cuffs-the crest of the Dawn Territory. She had barely slept the night before, rehearsing today's meeting over and over in her mind, along with Lilia's mischievous smile.
She straightened her collar, her movements somewhat stiff.
Veylin approached from behind her with steady steps. Today, he had changed into a dark gray coat, simply cut and free of unnecessary ornamentation, which gave him an air of seriousness and precision.
"Let's go," he said.
Diana nodded and stepped onto the stone bridge first. She could feel her heartbeat striking against her chest, once, then again.
She attributed the feeling to the nervousness of acting on an ally's behalf.
That had to be it.
The butler was already waiting at the entrance to the residence. He wore the same unruffled expression as ever, though his gaze lingered a moment longer when he saw Veylin.
"His Highness is waiting for you in the study."
After passing through the empty, silent corridor and ascending the thickly carpeted staircase, Diana once again entered the dimly lit study.
Prince Wilander sat behind his desk with a thick tome in his hands. Hearing footsteps, he raised his head and put down the book.
His gaze passed over Diana and settled on Veylin.
A flicker of surprise appeared on the prince's face,