The procession continued to move forward but Sapphire struggled. The Prodigal’s grip burned into her mind, as did the glassy look in the woman’s eye, like she could see something nobody else could. Sapphire fumbled through stiff conversations and well-wishes. She forgot to express gratitude. She tugged at the corset that seemingly tightened with every passing second. Araxia and Kip eyed her closely as she did her best to not entirely embarrass herself.

But the rest of the room didn’t seem to notice – offering her kindness. This relieved her, and the tension slowly eased from her jaw as she felt people’s acceptance.

Kip and Araxia seemed pleased, meeting her gaze from time to time and giving her encouraging nods.

She prayed she might actually make it through lunch.

That was, until the next pair of eyes met hers.

An icy blue that was devoid of kindness – they bored into her, making her step instinctively closer to the queen.

The Princeps.

The woman approached her first. She was beautiful – but in a way that was almost unnerving. Her sharp cheekbones and angular jaw made her beauty seem harsh.

‘Princess. What a miracle you’re here in front of us.’ The woman offered a thin hand, and Sapphire accepted it, startled by how cold her touch was. ‘I am Sadara Princeps – the governor of Ciliria. This is my husband, Tyden.’

‘We are honoured to meet the Lost Princess,’ came Tyden’s harsh voice. ‘Who knew we’d ever have the privilege.’

His tone made Sapphire’s spine stiffen as she turned to meet his gaze. He eyed her like a predator who hadn’t decided if she was dinner or deadwood.

His long blond hair was pulled back into a low ponytail, and his prominent cheekbones made him appear gaunt and sick. The bags under his eyes were hollow, shaded a deep purple that made Sapphire wonder when he had last got proper rest.

A few seconds passed before his wife’s hand wrapped around his thin arm, and the man’s smile seemed to chill the air.

It was the type of smile that made you feel like he’d put his hands around your neck right then and there if he could get away with it. Sapphire wondered how long he would wait to try.

‘It’s an honour to meet you as well. I’ve read about the wonderful things you’ve enacted in Ciliria. I can’t wait to experience your beautiful lands for myself,’ Sapphire replied, feeling tense under Tyden’s piercing gaze.

Sadara smiled, before stepping aside to introduce another figure standing behind her. ‘And this is our son, Kaian. I believe you two are the same age.’