Chapter: 796

In the end, Emeriel relented with a defeated sigh. "Fine. Let's go."

The shopping took longer than expected, and the sky had already begun to warm with the golden tones of evening by the time they returned. It wouldn't be long before Lord Herod arrived-if he wasn't already within the fortress walls. “Has the former Lord of Agriculture arrived?" she asked one of the stationed guards.

"Yes, Princess. He passed through not long ago, on his way to the Court of Duty."

Emeriel quickened her steps, Amie right behind her, hoping she might catch him before he entered the grand chamber. She hurried through the west corridor toward the great hall. As they rounded the final bend, she caught sight of him, cloaked in formal attire, walking toward the court doors. "Lord Herod!" she called.

He turned at the sound of her voice and smiled, lifting a hand in greeting. "My young friend!"