*******
The Crown Prince had left the Royal Ball earlier that night. In his bedroom, he drank wine while watching the birds in the cage.
The number had been restored, even increased, which made him bitter on the inside.
Staring at the wine residing in the cup... dark, like coagulated blood…
'… but tastier.'
... Zeleskiaz was waiting.
The Emperor would soon leave the Royal Ball too, and, shortly after, he would call for his successor to come.
It happened every time an event was held in the Palace. Therefore he waited patiently, expectant that, this time, there wouldn't be as much nagging as usual.
However, the Emperor did not call for him until it got unexpectedly late. The Prince was vexed at how long he stayed put for the obnoxious Emperor.
Although he felt that way, the Prince abided by his call and headed to the Emperor's lounge room, holding onto the ounce of patience he had left.