Chapter 22

The Hall of Knights was a modest but dignified building, constructed entirely from marble. On either side of the entrance hung massive banners embroidered with the crest of the Catalos Empire, and unlike the other areas of the palace grounds, there were no trees nearby, lending the place a sense of openness. Its architecture was noticeably more antique compared to the surrounding, relatively modern structures.

Only those who had given their lives for the Emperor and Catalos were honored here. The weight of honor and death hung heavy in the air.

Noticing Dianne’s reverent gaze, the Emperor offered an explanation.

“This building has stood since the palace was first constructed. It was originally intended as a mausoleum for the imperial family. But after the war with Arathos, it was repurposed for its current use.”

“That must have been Empress Regnant Aeonara’s decision.”

The Emperor looked at her, mildly surprised.

“You know the history of the imperial palace that well?”

Dianne lowered her head, a little embarrassed.

“Not really. I didn’t even know the Hall of Knights existed until today.”

“Then how did you…?”

“You mentioned the war with Arathos… The Second Continental War was the first major conflict where knights were honored for their sacrifice. And Empress Aeonara’s consort was a knight, after all.”

The Emperor fell silent for a moment. Dianne, startled by his reaction, asked carefully,

“Did I say something inappropriate?”

“No. If anyone’s been improper, it’s me.”

“I’m sorry, I don’t understand…”

“There’s no rule that says a young and beautiful lady can’t also be intelligent. It seems I’ve been more narrow-minded than I realized.”

Dianne’s face flushed bright red. But the Emperor didn’t seem to notice—or perhaps chose not to acknowledge—her reaction. He turned and continued walking toward the Hall.

It took Dianne a moment to collect herself before she could follow.

‘How on earth does a man like that not have a single lover?’

For someone in his position, it wouldn’t have been unusual to have a dozen mistresses, whether for personal or political reasons.

But there had never been any rumors of Emperor Rezion having a lover or mistress. It was a stark contrast to the previous emperor, who was always caught up in scandal.

‘No, why am I even wondering about His Majesty’s love life?’

Dianne shook her head as if to banish the foolish thoughts, drawing a curious glance from the Emperor.

Two guards stood at the entrance of the Hall of Knights. When they saw the Emperor and Dianne approaching, they blinked in disbelief before snapping instantly to attention.

Before they could deliver their booming salute, the Emperor raised a hand, signaling for silence.

“You’ve done well. Walk thirty paces that way and stand with your backs turned. Wait there.”

It was an odd command, but the guards didn’t question it. Well-trained soldiers, they saluted crisply and marched in the direction he indicated.

Dianne glanced after them as she followed the Emperor inside. She didn’t bother counting, but she was certain they had taken exactly thirty paces.

Inside the Hall, silence reigned. It seemed true that no one else was present at this hour. The only sign of life in the entryway was the flickering flame of a candle.

Without the moonlight streaming through the great arched windows, and the lantern the Emperor carried, they wouldn’t have been able to see their own feet.

The Emperor extended the lantern to her.

“Edric Reussen’s portrait is in the fifth chamber down that corridor. If Lira truly comes here, you’ll find her easily.”

“Yes. But with guards here, how did Her Highness get inside?”

The Emperor gave a small, rueful smile.

“Since she was a child, Lira has made a habit of wandering the palace. Climbing trees and walls, driving her nanny to despair. I’d wager she knows at least a dozen ways to sneak into this place.”

Considering her skill of horse riding, Dianne found that entirely believable.

The Emperor studied her quietly as she nodded. The lamplight wavered between them, casting soft shadows across his face, and for a moment something in Dianne’s chest fluttered.

“I’ll stand guard at the entrance. It’s unlikely anything will happen… but if it does, call for me.”

“I’ll be fine. There aren’t any horses in here, after all.”

The Emperor’s mouth curved in a crooked smile.

“I’ll make certain Lira apologizes for that.”

Even just hearing the words was enough to make her feel grateful. Dianne dipped her head slightly, then turned toward the corridor he had indicated.

The hallway curved around the central hall, a half-circle passage that would eventually lead her back to where she began.

Dianne walked slowly down the corridor, lighting the floor with her lantern. Even knowing the Emperor was only a few steps behind her, she couldn’t shake the eerie feeling creeping over her skin.

‘The fifth room… that must be it.’

Each room was separated into its own quiet alcove, though none of them had doors. Dianne came to a stop before the fifth one. She could sense someone inside. The presence was unmistakable. It had to be the princess.

Dianne placed a hand over her pounding heart and took a few deep, steadying breaths. Their first encounter had been less than ideal, but things were different now. She knew far more about Princess Elphenlira’s circumstances than she had back then. If that confrontation had been like blindly navigating a maze, this time she at least had a rough map in hand.

Could she truly persuade the princess? Perhaps not. But she had to try. She might never convince Elphenlira to accept marriage to the Crown Prince of Arathos, but perhaps she could help her let go of her resentment toward the Emperor. Just maybe, she could get her to speak with him. And if she could manage even that much, the Emperor would see that Dianne had done everything in her power.