Blade remained vigilant, and spent a fair bit of time with her, studying her mood. When he was certain that she was not about to snap out of her introspection, he would return to his rooms. On the third day, he was forced to give another brief audience, but it ended without mishap. The lords brought only a few minor, urgent issues to his attention. He knew that they were waiting for Chiana to return to her office before they brought more serious matters for consideration, for which he was glad.Afterwards, he made his way to Chiana's rooms, still clad in his court finery. He found her sitting listlessly on her cushions, a tray of pastries untouched beside her. Her maidens had returned to their embroidery, and Verdan dozed on a chair near the window, basking in the autumn sun's fading warmth. Insash was also in attendance, his nose buried in a tome. Blade frowned at their inattention, his gaze sharpening when he noticed that Chiana's eyes were focussed on her hands, which were clasped in her lap.
