She was stuck here? The words reverberated through Vajra’s mind as her new feet took her through the forest. Her daughters fussed around her, distraught at their queen’s turbulent emotions. “And I’m guessing we can’t just break it?” the Emperor had asked. “You don’t just break something like this,” Empress Tianlan had replied. “Vajra accepted. It's a valid contract… if underhanded.” They had entered a discussion on the matter anyway, the Emperor upset on her behalf. Ah, the way his arm had wrapped protectively around her shoulders and his green eyes had filled with resolve had been absolutely, truly wonderful. His big, strong arms were so different from Bi De’s. Heavier. Rougher. Normally, Vajra would have liked to spend hours in that embrace… but she had been too upset herself to truly sink into those big strong arms and enjoy it. The others had tried to comfort her, which had been a blow to her pride, especially because hugs felt very nice, and they too had nearly distracted her. The way Empress Meiling had groomed her had been oddly soothing, to the point she had nearly fallen asleep. Eventually she had begged off, while the others began to converse, on the pretense of testing her new body. The Emperor had her complete trust; his decision was one she would abide by without hesitation, even if she disliked it. But for the moment, she needed to think and take stock of this new duty that had been thrust upon her. (...)