Gray sat in the palace library, reading. He glances up in surprise as the door opens, the Empress’ elaborate robes rustling as she enters the room.

“Empress?” He stands, bowing his head politely. Although his expression remains impassive as always, there is a faint blush on his cheeks that betrays his pleasure at seeing her.

“Do you require something from me?” Gray asks, looking at his Empress with soft eyes.