Reborn as the Last van Ambrose

Two days had passed since Grim’s conversation with the voice. Within the royal wing, Empress Alexia walked the familiar path to her daughter’s chambers, nodding to the guards who stood at attention as she passed.

Princess Liona’s rooms were a reflection of her character. Books lined several walls, interspersed with maps. The princess herself sat at her desk, writing in a journal when her mother entered. She rose immediately, offering a formal curtsy.

"Mother," she greeted, straightening. "I wasn’t expecting you until this evening."

"The agricultural council concluded early," Alexia replied, embracing her daughter briefly. Her eyes scanned the room, noting a small lacquered box on the desk. "What’s this?"

Liona’s expression brightened subtly. "A gift. It arrived three days ago."

Alexia raised an eyebrow, moving toward the desk. "May I?"

"Of course."

The Empress opened the box carefully. Inside, nestled on dark velvet, was a remarkable necklace. A silver pendant in the shape of a crescent moon, inlaid with tiny sapphires and pearls that caught the light. The piece was not ostentatiously large or gaudy, but its quality was immediately apparent to Alexia—this was the work of a master jeweler, likely costing a small fortune.

"It’s beautiful," she said, lifting it gently. "Who sent it?"

A slight smile played at Liona’s lips. "There was no name attached, only a note wishing me a happy birthday."

"And yet you seem to know the sender."