EVERYONE had gathered the moment Emperor Kallixto stepped out of the forest, Thalia cradled in his arms. Without a word, he returned his disguise and walked briskly toward the guest chamber of the orphanage. Fortunately, Princess Stella and the Imperial escorts were quick to manage the curious onlookers, shielding the children and dispersing potential spectators before rumors could spread.
Fortunately, they managed to reach the back door of the orphanage, where few people were around. When Kallixto spotted an empty chamber, he swiftly led Thalia inside, keeping his presence as discreet as possible. He gently set Thalia down on the divan and closed the door behind him. He knelt before her, inspecting her injured ankle with quiet concentration.
“What were you doing here, your majesty?” Tha
