The procession winds its way into the palace, Princess Kathoril leading them deeper through gleaming, brass-lined halls toward the throne room, polished floors reflecting the glow of lantern-crystals set into the walls at even intervals. Vuvi trails near the back, visibly frustrated, arms crossed tight, jaw set in a hard line.
Maribelle leans in close. "What's wrong?"
"I want to see Pip," Vuvi mutters. "I have no idea what he's up to right now, and it's driving me insane."
"We can handle things here," Maribelle offers. "You could go."
Veena's already stepping up on Vuvi's other side. "I'll handle anything to do with the business. I've learned enough from you by now."
Vuvi's whole face softens, warm and grateful. "Thank you!" She grabs Penelo's wrist without another word and takes off at a run, the two of them vanishing back down the corridor they'd just come from. "We'll meet you back here later!"
"Do you even know where you're going?" Sera calls after her.
