Dusk settled slowly over the Ice Monarch's territory.
The last bluish shades of the sky disappeared behind the mountains, leaving only the moon reflected across endless stretches of snow. Small flakes drifted silently around the palace, glowing for a few moments whenever they crossed the light of the magical crystals scattered along the walls.
After spending most of the day playing with Vex, Strax had finally managed to get the little dragon to rest.
Managed was perhaps a generous word.
Vex had simply burned so much energy running through the corridors, building ice animals, and forcing her father to participate in imaginary battles that she ended up falling asleep hugging a wooden dragon before dinner was even over.
Now, only Strax and Mercedes remained awake in that part of the palace.
The two stood on the large balcony of the Monarch's private chambers.
