Laverna could no longer pretend to be sick, and her servants were afraid that someone would discover her absence. She spoke to me on our last night together in a different voice: "Yuana..." Although I responded, Laverna remained silent for a few moments, then continued, "I don't think the Crown Prince cares about me."

Thinking that Tait's words had hurt her feelings, I reassured her with great conviction, "There is no one who wouldn't fall in love with you, but he is simply too preoccupied to look at you." Then I continued, "I was just fortunate that Achil gave me enough time because he thought I wouldn't jeopardize his future." Laverna smiled and sat looking at me. "Yuana, you are kind." Then she continued, "But that's not what I mean."

Laverna continued, holding her hand in her lap, "I am Concubine the Crown Prince." Then she looked at me with steady eyes and said, "If he feels interested in me, nothing will stop him from visiting." Then she continued confidently, "He also referred to you by name..." and with concern, she continued "This man doesn't even know the names of most of his concubines, but he made an effort to know yours."

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In confusion, she continued, "I don't know what he's thinking. Perhaps he wanted to see the girl that changed Achil's mind." She sarcastically smiled at what she said and looked at her hand. Then she looked at me, saying, "But I haven't seen this man show any interest in any of his brothers, even Achil... And if you want my advice, Yuana, find a smuggler. He has definitely trapped you."

Laverna went in the morning, and several nights passed without seeing her. Her absence was understandable, as there was a lot she had to make up for during this two-week absence. We lived comfortable days, and news began to spread about the Empress's expanding power due to her son's grand marriage.

I sat leaning against the wall next to the sleeping Tait on a dark and cold night. I didn't want to wake her up, but I wanted to, strongly... So I remained still between action and inaction. Perhaps Tait sensed my struggle and opened her eyes. She looked at me in confusion while I said, "I think it's time for Achil to return."