The sun dipped low over the empire's towers, bathing the capital in a golden hue. Its light brushed softly against the marble spires of the royal academy, where politics danced behind every closed door and hearts began to beat faster beneath armor and title alike.
Inside the eastern wing of the palace, the corridors were hushed. Only the soft rustle of silk robes and distant whispers of court members filled the air. James stood near the tall arched window, arms folded, his silhouette outlined by the fading light. His golden eyes didn't leave the courtyard below, where new knights were being drilled.
He had been quiet since the last council meeting.
"Are you going to stay silent all evening?" Sebastian's voice broke the stillness.
James didn't turn immediately. He exhaled slowly, fingers flexing at his sides. "I'm thinking."
Sebastian leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, expression unreadable. "That's what you always say when you're avoiding your own emotions."
