Johanna had only staggered when a pair of hands held her in time.
She expressed her gratitude while her hands quickly fixed her clothes, but when her eyes met the person in front of her, she froze and her face lost all its colors.
"Your highness,"
Lillian had a bright smile as she gave a slight curtsy.
Johanna returned the gesture stiffly.
The empress of the empire was seldom seen by anyone. There were even rumors that she had some disfigurement. She was not pleasing to the eyes and that's why the emperor gave her no attention.
But Johanna had seen Lillian before.
It happened a long time ago, but she was not someone that can be easily forgotten.
"I wanted to meet you much sooner!" Lillian gasped, "But my health restricted me to my quarters. Forgive me for not attending the wedding,"
"Health comes first,"
Johanna murmured as she averted her gaze.
"You are very considerate, your highness,"