They descended the stairs, and immediately, the Imperial Guard formed a protective bubble around them. Jorel and his men moved with quiet efficiency, creating a five-foot buffer that kept the crowds at bay while allowing them to remain visible.
This was Eris's official introduction to the common folk. As they walked, the initial reaction was one of stunned silence. People stopped mid-bite or mid-chew, their eyes wide as they realized the Emperor and Empress were actually walking among them.
"Empress! Empress!"
A group of children near a sweet-stall began waving enthusiastically. Eris didn't hesitate; she waved back, her smile genuine and unforced. She wasn't the distant, icy queen they had whispered about; she was human, vibrant, and alive.
The adults were slower to react, some bowing deeply, others simply staring in fascination at the "Fire Queen" who looked so at home in their winter furs. Then, a small chant started near the edge of the crowd.
