The hallway outside the dueling grounds had emptied, but the echo of violence still lingered. Guards spoke in hushed tones, and the scent of blood clung to the cold stone.
Prince Julius found Princess Seraphina in one of the alcoves above the courtyard, her long silver-blue cloak trailing behind her like frost. She stood at the arched window, watching the courtyard below with arms folded and a look of cold restraint on her face.
"Why did you do that?" Julius said as he approached.
Seraphina didn't turn. "And how is what I do any of your bussines?"
"Youshouldn't have said all of that. It was completely unnecessary, don't you think?" His voice was sharp, with just enough bite to pull her attention.
She exhaled through her nose, almost laughing. "Are you truly this worked up over a guard, brother?"
