The sky over Rome overcast as preparing for another tragic scene on steps of Valerian palace crowds linedwhispering awaiting decision their Iron Emperor issue Valerian stood at judgment wearing dark royal robes befitted his severity his eyes merciless blue before him man in chains

"Treason?" Emperor spoke in calm voice all who heard felt like a bolt of thunder military commander leaned forward and whispered in Valerian ear "This it, your majesty..Lord Cagliostro attempting to smuggle kingdom gold finance rebellion"

Valerian showed no expression, merely turning his face toward man raising his hand "Prison until further notice no visitors allowed" man's feet slipped as he dragged out of hall..his eyes pleading vain what no one knew in shadows girl watching her lips trembling and her eyes boiling with tears

{She was his daughter}

Days later, lights shining in royal banquet hall Valerian hosting lavish banquet for nobles young woman entered wearing an elegant gown her hair tied back her steps were confident but her eyes concealed deep concern

"Just one more night I need to arrive...to beg him to release my father" She passed crowd pretending to be daughter provincial noble near back door leading to Emperor's quarters when "You Stop!" turned find two guards stand behind her their faces stern "What's your name? who invited you?"

she tried respond one of them violently grabbed her arm "We'll conduct an investigation..to take her to prison" But cold voice interrupted commotion "Wait" guards froze all turned to source of voice Emperor Valerian himself at entrance glass wine in his hand

he looked at her for long moment then said with calmness no less severe "she won't be prison...she's thief's daughter I know it, and she will be my soon handmaid"