[Lavinia's POV—Hallway of the Imperial Palace—Later]
The torches flickered along the corridor walls, casting long, swaying shadows as I walked. My boots echoed in the emptiness—slow, deliberate.
Then I stopped.
Suddenly.
Abruptly.
Almost startling myself.
"...Sea."
The word slipped from my lips like a breath I didn't know I was holding. My chest tightened with something unfamiliar—something bright, soft, and almost childlike.
Excitement.
Pure, unfiltered excitement.
Because in both lives—Lavinia Devereux and Reina Suzuki—I had never once seen the ocean. I never had the time. Never had the freedom.
Until now.
Behind me, Haldor halted immediately. "Your Highness… why did you stop?"
Even Marshi blinked, tilting his massive head in confused sympathy. I turned toward Haldor, eyes still glimmering. "Sir Haldor… Have you ever visited the sea?"
He blinked.
Twice.
Then shook his head. "I never have, Your Highness."
My excitement flared hotter. "…Then shall we go together?"
