The imperial palace seemed to be cold and abandoned as the days stretched on, each one marked by the absence of Magnus. Cassiopeia's heart ached with every echoing step through the grand corridors, his absence casting a shadow over her once vibrant quarter.
Cassiopeia stood by the window, her gaze fixed on the horizon where the sun dipped below the edge of the world—the direction where Magnus was headed. Lin entered the room with soft, careful steps.
"Your Imperial Majesty," she began in a gentle voice, carefully not surprising the empress, "it is time to prepare for the council meeting."
Cassiopeia sighed, her fingers gripping the windowsill as if seeking an anchor in the storm of emotions within her. "I know, Lin. It's just... it feels as if a part of me is missing."
Lin moved close
