In the Name of Empress-Chapter 577 - 345: This Is the Price (2)
She is atop the clouds.
She has only temporarily given up most of her powers, but if her life were truly in danger, she wouldn't mind temporarily reclaiming some strength.
However, she would never do so unless absolutely necessary.
There is no going back; she doesn't want to take that path.
Sofia gracefully arrived at Winter Palace Square.
Sahalin, who was commanding the fountain's repairs, was startled but quickly regained his composure upon seeing the Empress, coming forward to pay respects. 𝐟𝚛𝕖𝚎𝕨𝗲𝐛𝚗𝐨𝐯𝐞𝕝.𝐜𝗼𝗺
In his mind, Sofia was synonymous with invincibility.
After that awe-inspiring move, this view had become a mental imprint.
Sofia glanced at the fountain being repaired, didn't inquire further, and merely said calmly:
"Send word to Roland, principle issues can't be compromised in any way. If former allies want to be our enemies, give them a proper burial."
"I'll be leaving for a while, pay close attention to domestic affairs."
Hearing Sofia mention her departure, Sahalin's voice trembled, "Your Majesty, where are you going?"
As soon as the words left his mouth, he wished he could slap himself.
Was it appropriate to inquire about the Empress's whereabouts?
Before the Battle of White Mountain, Sofia had already distanced herself from affairs, often leaving Saint Rurik Palace, sometimes for half a year or more.
Some had questioned the meaning behind Sofia's actions.
However, the decisive move at White Mountain silenced everyone.
Just as Sahalin was about to apologize for his slip, Sofia's detached voice slowly drifted over.
"No need for that, I'm merely stepping out, and I'll be back. While I'm away, Roland will be in charge of all affairs, assisted by Angelina."
When Sahalin looked up, Sofia's figure had already dissolved into the distance.
Sahalin breathed a sigh of relief and then squinted his eyes, puzzled.
The Empress did depart swiftly, but not much faster than he could.
She was already a Tier Four extraordinary force, quite close to the Holy Sanctuary, yet why has her speed increased so little?
After pondering for a moment, Sahalin finally gave himself a hearty slap.
Sahalin, oh, Sahalin, it's because the Empress took pity on you, a weaker being, that she slowed down her pace a bit. If Her Majesty moved at supersonic speed, what could he hear?
The Empress wasn't slow; it was her silent kindness.
Her Majesty is indeed so gentle, why does she meet someone as blind as Ivan IV?
Sahalin was indignant, though he dared not voice it, yet he still felt it unworthy for Sofia.
...
Francis City.
The hotels arranged for diplomats from various countries were located in adjacent neighborhoods, close enough for ease of visiting each other's rooms and conducting transactions, yet allowing for a certain distance to avoid conflicts.
On the Tulip Hotel's terrace, Roland was swishing a goblet, savoring the Milan Champagne royally selected and brought by Lisa from Talia.
As it turns out, Milan Champagne in this world had no negative effects, and might even be a lucky buff, so there's no harm in indulging.
Lisa squinted her eyes, sitting cheerfully across from Roland.
The chair beneath her had traces of warmth.
Not hers; she had just arrived.
After the Battle of White Mountain, she successfully broke through to Tier Five extraordinary profession [Scorching Flame] and simultaneously mastered Level 5 Flame Magic, Meteor Fire Rain, becoming a Great Mage.
She, extremely sensitive to temperature, could easily deduce the previous guest's identity from the residual warmth of the chair.
The warm breeze from the forest carried a hint of the elf.
It was indeed Sif.
In this city, there seemed to be some unspoken accord reached among Sif, Lisa, and Alina.
Except at public events like banquets and meetings, they wouldn't appear simultaneously.
Initially, Lisa and Sif just missed each other, visiting Roland one after the other.
Then, Alina invited Roland to stargaze together.
Once, twice, thrice, they all showed up consecutively.
The perceptive girls sensed each other's presence.
They came to a mutual realization that perhaps Sif/Lisa/Alina thought it best not to meet for now.
Since that's the case, let's respect each other and maintain this understanding.
Afterward, the meticulous Lisa realized it was a misunderstanding she couldn't easily resolve.
Some things are better left unsaid; once said, everyone would be in a sticky situation.
They too cautiously sought a manner of interaction acceptable to all.
Sharing drinks, reveling, or slumbering together might be a man's dream, but the dream was shattered, leaving behind nothing but a sea of flowers void of even a blossom.
In any case, Lisa would surely never ask who just arrived; she was here to share her joy with Roland, not to add to his troubles.
"Wait, the wine's temperature is too low."
Lisa casually reached out, holding Roland's wine glass, precisely transferring warmth.
Seeing her cheery demeanor, Roland's lips curled into an appealing smile.
"Four years," he said gently.
"What four years?" Lisa paused.
Four years was an unfamiliar figure to her, having known Roland far longer.
Four years ago...
Suddenly, she felt a tightness in her chest, as four years ago marked the day Roland met Sif.
She could accept Sif holding more importance in Roland's heart; who wouldn't find a beautiful elf delightful?
But she still hoped Roland wouldn't be so blatant about it in front of her.
Just as she lowered her head slightly, Roland laughed, saying, "How much do you think this hotel is worth."
"Eleven thousand pounds, maybe." Although feeling a bit stifled, Lisa would never project negative emotions onto Roland, forcing a polite smile and softly responded.
"Could buy a hundred houses at 117 Belphar Street."
Roland softly spoke, "Yet in my heart, that's our home, invaluable."
Lisa abruptly lifted her gaze, looking at Roland.
