"Mother," Princess Sylvia began, her voice laced with curiosity, "why does your face betray such displeasure at my ascension?"
The Empress scoffed. "Why ask? You have what you desired. Is there more you seek from me?"
"Not trouble, Mother," Sylvia countered, a hint of amusement playing on her lips. "Seeing your disquiet, I came out of concern."
"Concern, or a desire for further taunts?" the Empress retorted, her eyes narrowed.
Sylvia's smile faltered slightly. "Perhaps a little of both," she admitted. "But I have no wish to dwell on this matter if it burdens you. If there's nothing more to say, I shall excuse myself."
The Empress hesitated, her gaze flickering towards the door. "What of brother?" she asked, a tremor in her voice.
"That," Sylvia said firmly, "is a conversation I will not avoid. You see, Mother, secrets have a way of resurfacing. The truth, however long buried, will eventually come to light."
