The Empress summons

Ave watched as Lucian's horse and his entourage galloped away from the palace gate. She stood there until they disappeared out of sight, and the gate was shut closed. Then, she turned and dejectedly walked back into the dull palace, feeling utterly drained and bored.

She had stayed awake the entire night to embroider the shawl she'd given to him. Thankfully, she had learned how to make embroideries at the restaurant where she'd worked during her teenage years. It had been a hobby to pass the time before she was called by the chefs to do something. Though she had been horrible at it, she never gave it up, as it helped her relax.