As soon as Florian finished his breakfast, he wasted no time lingering in the dining room.He had made up his mind—he wasn't going to wait any longer.
The gardens were quiet when he arrived, the morning sun filtering gently through the leaves.
At first, he let himself stroll as if it were just another casual walk, his steps slow, eyes drifting over blooms heavy with dew. The cool air brushed against his skin, carrying the scent of roses and fresh earth.
It was peaceful. Too peaceful.
'Almost enough to make me forget why I'm here… but no. I'm not here to enjoy the scenery.'
He stopped before the towering shade of a large tree, gaze fixed on the gnarled roots beneath it."Hendrix," he called, voice calm but firm. "I need to talk to you."
For a few moments, there was only silence—the soft rustle of branches, the flutter of exotic birds overhead, the sigh of the wind through the flowers. Then—
"Good morning, Prince Florian." The voice came from behind him, bright and warm.
