With a war imminent, Gianna spent more and more time on the paláti grounds. She had become despondent in the weeks and months since her family had been torn apart by the political unrest. It was not uncommon to see her wandering listlessly through the deserted halls of the palace, a shell of the vibrant woman she was just that summer. It was odd to consider how much had changed since the events of the circus. She tried not to dwell on the past, but some days were harder than others. Surprisingly enough, this particular day was one of the better ones.

Having risen earlier than usual, the young blonde had taken her time to ready herself for the day. As the second princess of a recently ousted royal line, Gianna had considerably fewer responsibilities than ever in her short life. And so she had taken her breakfast in her chambers before treating herself to a warm bath in the autumn chill. She dressed for the day with the assistance from her handmaid. Elpis had insisted on plaiting a coronet atop her head while Gianna had stated her preference to allow her curls to go free. So, they had come to a compromise which allowed Elpis a pair of braids to hold the royal’s hair out of her face, which were then attached at the nape of her neck and left a cascade of golden curls down her back.

Feeling a bit suffocated from her morning tiff, Gianna took her leave to explore the palace grounds. She needed the fresh air after several dreary days in a row had kept her locked inside. The threat of war meant that additional security had been added to the palace while the staff had been pared down to reduce the number of people coming and going on a daily basis. With such precautions in place, it was no wonder the aura of the place was more unwelcoming these days. It was for these myriad reasons that the princess chose to spend her time outside the palace walls.

With the fresh autumn air in her lungs, Gianna’s spirit was instantly lifted. She stepped a little lighter with the sun on her skin and the breeze rustling the skirts of her plum chiton. She had just returned to the courtyard, intent on finding a snack of olives and cheese in the kitchens, when her attention was drawn to the guards parting once more behind her. She had not realized they were expecting company? The princess redirected herself, not anticipating the young man—not much older than a boy, but not much younger than herself—who crossed the threshold.

Curious about his presence as well as the scroll he held, she fiddled with her golden bangles as she approached. He must have noticed her as well with how quickly he averted his gaze. An amused smile settled on her lips as she decided she already liked this boy. “Excuse me, sir? If I am not mistaken, we appear to be heading in the same direction. Please, allow me to escort you to your destination?” she inquired, nodding to the scroll in his hands. “I am Gianna. And you are?”