"Don't thank me yet," the Emperor said. "You've just painted a target on yourself large enough to be seen from across the capital. The only reason you're still breathing is because I'm curious to see what you'll do next." His gaze sharpened. "Don't disappoint me, daughter."
"I won't, Your Majesty."
He waved a hand. "Dismissed. And Elara?"
She paused at the doorway and looked back.
"Next time you want to raid a palace wing," the Emperor said, "send word first. Professional courtesy."
His expression didn't change, but the corner of his mouth twitched.
Elara bowed one final time and left.
The doors closed behind her with a sound like a vault sealing.
Outside, the two beast knights who'd announced her snapped to attention. One of them looked at her face, then at the doors, then back at her—clearly trying to calculate what had just happened.
Elara walked past them without explanation, file tucked under her arm, legs aching but holding, mind already three steps ahead.
