"Don't touch her," an angry growl demanded, causing both Kel and the man clutching her hand to flinch.
"Ah, pardon me, Your Highness," the man replied sheepishly. He scratched the back of his head and bowed, dropping Kel's hand.
He spent a few moments glancing between the emperor's glare and Kel's confusion before speaking up again. "I am Thane, His Majesty's sword."
"I am Princess Adriell of Mevani," Kel responded, dipping her head respectfully. She felt a sting in her chest as she spoke and was acutely reminded of last night's conversation with Dash. In less than 24 hours, names that were so dear to her had become painful to even say aloud.
"You're already well-known around here, Princess," Thane grinned.
A warning grunt from the emperor silenced them both before Kel could reply. They proceeded on toward the main palace, Thane tagging along as an escort. Before long, the knight was chattering happily, paying no heed to his master's dissatisfaction.
