Book 1: Chapter 4
Ever since her big brother had headed to the west to lead his army, Falanya dedicated time out of her busy schedule to go onto her terrace and gaze in his direction every day.
She understood it was a silly, pointless thing to do. His letters were proof enough that he still hadn’t returned. No matter how much she rubbed her eyes, she knew he wouldn’t appear in front of her.
She understood in theory, not in practice.
Now that she thought about it, she’d done the same thing while he was studying in the Empire. Back then, she looked toward the east. If there was no one to interrupt her, she could continue to stare out forever. Truth be told, with the king bedridden and the prince gone, very few people could scold her for her actions.
“Princess, please return to your room. Too much wind is not good for the body.”
One of those people, the chamberlain Holly, called from within, and Falanya turned to face a swarthy elderly woman of portly stature with short hair and dark skin.
It was uncommon to see those of her race—even in Natra. She was from the southern part of the continent, but Falanya didn’t know the details. For as long as she could remember, this woman had taken care of her.
“Just a little while longer. I have to pray for his safety,” Falanya said.
“Whether you’re praying on a cold terrace or inside a warm room, I’m sure they’ll be heard all the same.”