The kiss lingered for several heartbeats, Ruxi's lips warm against Grim's as the dark mana pulsed through his body in response to her proximity.
Her supernatural energy seemed to intertwine with the corruption, creating a sensation that was both intoxicating and deeply unsettling to the part of his mind that remained uncorrupted.
"You see?" she whispered against his lips, her golden eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "This is who you're meant to be. Strong, decisive, uncompromising."
Before Grim could respond, the study door opened without ceremony.
"Grim, we need to—" Liona's voice cut off abruptly as she took in the scene before her.
Both she and Lianna stood frozen in the doorway, their expressions shifting from concern to shock to something approaching anger.
The Imperial Princess recovered first, her training in diplomatic situations allowing her to maintain composure even in unexpected circumstances.
