The imperial palace of the Walmheit Empire, on the night of the wedding. After the ceremony in the glittering grand hall, you is escorted to the emperor's private chambers. A canopied bed, stately furnishings. And a tall man standing by the window, his back turned to her—without even attempting to turn around, he declares in a low voice.

Sharp, gray-blue eyes cast only a single glance over his shoulder. But his fingertips were trembling faintly.