บท 266: The New Morning

"I wish Princess Katarina were here to see you," Isabella's voice was like a soft melody as she clasped Ingrid's hands between her own. The warmth of her touch contrasted with the cool, serene air of the temple. "I will miss your visits to this quiet sanctuary, but I am very happy to see you off."

Ingrid's lips curved into a smile. "Thank you, Priestess. My time outside the imperial palace is only temporary. I'll still come to see you as often as I can," she replied.

Isabella's grip tightened ever so slightly, her gaze locking onto Ingrid's with an intensity that made the younger woman pause. The priestess's eyes, usually so calm, seemed to hold a storm beneath their surface. Slowly, her expression softened, but the depth in her eyes remained.

"Your Highness…" Isabella's voice was almost a whisper, barely more than a breath of wind. There was something in her tone that was different than usual—something that made Ingrid's heart felt heavy.