In the Palace of the 11th Empire
The vast imperial chamber, adorned with gold embellishments and portraits of knights, exuded an air of royal grandeur. At its center stood a majestic blue bed, where a small figure lay—Julia Valessia.
By her bedside stood Astrid Valessia, the empress, her gaze clouded with worry.
Julia slowly parted her lips, breaking the hushed silence of the room:
" Astrid, I already told you… I'm fine. I'm completely healed."
Astrid's voice trembled slightly in response:
" No… You might overexert yourself… I don't want you to fall ill again."
Julia offered her a gentle, almost childlike smile, filled with soothing tenderness. Ever since their hurried departure from the 5th Empire, Astrid had never ceased watching over her, showering her with endless care.
Then, with a slight movement, Julia pushed herself up and sat at the edge of the bed. Her delicate fingers brushed through Astrid's long platinum blonde hair, a mischievous glint in her eyes.
