The queen comes for her crown

The Empress raised a brow at the yearlings bright grin but said no more as Recluse gave her name. Her Klein heritage was glaringly obvious, but Belle was glad she had a name to put to a face. The girl bowed, but also spoke of returning her crown. She didn’t miss what she had to say about Hannibal either, but Deathbelle would ignore it for the moment for manners. The young Klein was not challenging Deathbelle for anything, but that didn’t mean her own children’s future place might not be contested.

Recluse could pull off what Hannibal had been unable to. Maybe she would rise another pillar for the Empire to rest upon. She had good blood and determination, making it not at all beyond the realm of belief. ”Welcome home, my niece.” She offered with a subtle nod and amused smirk. ”And indeed you shall. Come under my wing, dearheart. You’ll have your kingdom soon.” Deathbelle promised, standing back to allow Recluse to enter the Ashen Empire. ”Where are you starting your journey, Recluse? Are you a soldier, priestess, Scout perhaps?” She asked curiously as she ushered her in.