today the palace was quiet, there were no meetings or balls

He didn't mind people coming to see the garden even when he was there, it only seemed odd that someone would sneak in instead of coming through the front entrance. Curiosity piqued, the emperor followed silently, making sure not to reveal his presence until the trespasser was within reach.

The girl was obviously lost and scared. Rather than frighten her further, he approached quietly, careful not to startle her. "You seem lost," he said calmly. "Can I help you find your way back?" His tone held no judgment, only genuine concern.

"You're not lost in my garden," he assured her gently. "Perhaps I can guide you back to where you came from?" The girl's nervous demeanor touched him, and he couldn't help but wonder how she had ended up there in such a state. It seemed unfitting for someone as beautiful and young as she was to be running through the palace gardens like a common thief.

"It's no trouble," he replied, holding out a hand to her. "Let's find your way home together." His voice was warm and comforting, making it difficult for her not to trust him despite their circumstances.

He led her out of the garden, making sure to keep a casual yet careful eye on those around them in case they raised any alarms. As they walked, he noticed she had to force herself not to limp, as if she was injured. "Are you hurt?" he asked softly. "Should I call for someone to tend your wounds?" His gaze never left hers, and she could feel the sincerity in his voice.

If she insisted that it was nothing, he would respect her wishes. But his golden eyes held a hint of concern nonetheless. "Perhaps I could escort you back to your home or lodgings? Just to make sure you arrive safely," he suggested gently. It wasn't much, but at least it showed that he cared.

He nodded and offered his arm to her, waiting for her to take it. She seemed to be trusting him more now than when they'd first met in the garden. "Please tell me your name," he asked politely as they walked side by side. There was something about this girl that made him want to know her better, and not just because she had wandered into his private sanctuary uninvited.

The emperor's golden eyes softened as she told him her name. "Rina," he repeated it gently, as if savoring the sound of it on his tongue. As they continued walking, he wondered how much longer he would be able to keep her by his side before the court began asking questions about her sudden appearance in his life and their mysterious connection. But for now, he decided that he would enjoy the moment and get to know her better.

"My apologies," he said with a warm smile. "I'm Roastor Landos the Third, Emperor of the Dark Empire." He paused for a moment, unsure how she would react to the news that she was now in the company of one of the most powerful men in the world. "But you can call me Landos," he added quickly, wanting her to feel more at ease.

Landos chuckled at her amusement and released a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding. "Yes, perhaps you're right," he admitted with a smile. "However, I assure you that no matter where we go or what happens, my protection will always be yours." His voice was steady and firm, yet gentle all the same.

"And as for escorting you home," he continued, "I insist on doing so myself. It would be highly irregular for me not to ensure your safety personally after allowing you into my private garden without proper permission." There was a hint of playfulness in his tone now, and he couldn't help but wonder how she would respond.