Sibyl's steps slowed as she approached the Emperor's private wing.
The corridor here was quieter than the rest of the palace. The guards stood stationed at intervals, with their armor gleaming faintly beneath the afternoon light spilling through tall windows.
They bowed the moment they saw her.
"My Queen."
Sibyl inclined her head graciously, though her eyes drifted toward the large doors at the end of the hall.
Damon's chambers. She paused for a moment. The palace had not seen him in two days.
There was no meetings in the throne room or speech to the people. He didn't even meet with his wives.
Even the servants whispered that he had barely eaten.
She placed a gentle hand over her belly, inhaling slowly as though steadying herself.
Then she continued forward. The guards at the doors crossed their spears instinctively, blocking the entrance.
Sibyl blinked. That wasn't expected.
"My Queen," one of them said carefully, "His Majesty ordered that no one–"
