When the Crown Falls

Chapter 20 - Maddening Red

Playlist:
War of Hearts — Ruelle

SUJIN SEIMU

Emi sat in her quarters, the deafening silence of the room a stark contrast to the buzzing atmosphere outside. The sound of laughter and chatter floated through the walls, a painful reminder of the joyous celebrations surrounding Lady Yua's pregnancy.

A servant had just finished bringing in tea and small snacks, leaving Emi alone with her thoughts and my subtle presence beside her.

She sipped the tea and whatever herbs it contained did little to nothing with the whirlpool of fears and speculations going through her mind, swirling and twisting, all of them dark and grim.

I remained silent—vigilant and watchful for any unfortunate attempts possibly made, and because of this, I could barely help myself not to notice her pensive expression, the way her fingers absently fiddled with a small trinket on the table.

Did he give that to her?

The thought was gut wrenching.

I took a few steps closer and called out, hoping to snap her away from her deep trance. "My lady,"

I watched her stare absently into space, deaf like she could not hear the yearning in my voice.

Why won't you look at me?

"My lady... I heard there will be a festival tonight at the central square." I halted, waiting for any response. "Lots of food stalls, fireworks, it'll be quite a spectacle. Perhaps you'd like to... sneak out and watch the fireworks together?"

The festival was the only celebration without ties to Lady Yua's news. An annual festivity to celebrate the joy of sharing Aurelia's culture.

"You've been cooped up in your room for too long. I think it's time you get some fresh air, have a little fun" I paused and moved to kneel in front of her. "It pains me to see you like this, My lady. And the fact that I can barely do anything about it bleeds me near to death. "

Perhaps my words finally stirred something in her because she looked at me like she'd seen the concern overwhelming my eyes.

She let out a small sigh and then finally responded, her voice soft and tinged with a hint of resignation. "Perhaps you are right. I suppose a change of scenery wouldn't hurt."

I took her hand in mine and cupped my cheek with it.
Finally, she let out a smile as I leaned into her touch and relished the moment, desperately trying to share my warmth with her.

She was colder than usual, freezing actually.
I should tell Kyone to change Emi's sheets with more thicker ones. Speaking of, where is she?

"What if someone notices us?" Emi suddenly asked. Her hesitation was showing clearly, the fear of being caught creeping up from the shadows.

Let them. I want them to.
I nearly echoed my thoughts.

"I know a spot that has an excellent view of the central lights. It's a little hidden so we won't be disturbed. And it's quiet, away from the noisy crowd It will be just the two of us and we can watch the fireworks display without anyone bothering."

Her lips parted, letting out a soft exhale in the process that made her breath tickle the surface of my skin.

And then she winced, halted, and before I could ask, she had already dipped her fingers on the wet sensation trailing her upper lip, coating her fingertips red. Blood.

My heart dropped.

Without a second, she stumbled and I panicked as she began to fall off the chair. I surged forward and caught her before she hit the ground, cushioning her fall with my arms.

"Physician! I need a physician, now!"

My heart was already threatening in my throat as I tried to process what had happen.

"Where the hell is the physician?!" My voice thundered through the room as I kept calling out for help.

No, please no.

Eventually, I cradled her in my arms despite my touch trembling with worry and fear.