A servant set out wine and snacks, then quickly left without question.
Whatever brought these two here, it was no business of his—but they were guests of the kingdom, and must be treated accordingly.
Sigmund gazed into the firelight.
Michael, composed as ever, held a wine glass, unshaken even by the sudden appearance of an emperor.
Sigmund gave a faint smile.
This man neither flattered him, nor feared him.
Is that why I like him so much?
"Aren't you curious why I came?"
Michael met his violet eyes without hesitation.
With someone like Sigmund, you had to show confidence.
"You were bored."
Sigmund laughed under his breath.
No one had ever dared speak to him like that.
Michael found himself liking Sigmund even more.
"Ha! What if I came to oppose the restoration of the Xerxian Kingdom?"
Sigmund's eyes gleamed in the light of the enchanted candles.
Michael met his gaze calmly and replied:
