Argider strolled through the palace gardens with Sylva, the sun casting a warm glow over the fragrant blossoms. Despite the serene setting, her thoughts were far from peaceful. The events with the butler earlier still lingered in her mind, a nagging reminder of how vulnerable she was—especially now, with her condition. Sylva walked beside her, her children running ahead to chase butterflies.
"Thank you for earlier," Argider finally said, breaking the silence. "I don't know what I would've done without you. You might've saved more than just me today."
Sylva smiled warmly. "It's what anyone would've done." She glanced at Argider, her expression thoughtful. "But, Your Majesty, I can't help but notice... You've been running yourself ragged trying to handle everything on your own. You're the emperor—well, empress now. You don't have to bear every burden yourself."