5.11 Courtroom Intrigues

Cass stirred from his sleep as a knock sounded at his door. With the help of the maids, he freshened up and dressed before making his way downstairs.

As he entered the dining hall, the guards opened the doors, and Seraphina darted towards him. Cass welcomed her embrace with a warm smile, reciprocating the hug.

Lucian observed their interaction with joy, his eyes twinkling with a smile. Cass and Seraphina settled at the table, and Cass addressed Lucian, "Your majesty."

Lucian's smile widened as he replied, "Peach."

The entire room glanced back and forth between the emperor and Cass. Seraphina, too, observed the exchange with curiosity.

Her father had shifted from formality to familiarity, while Cass seemed to adopt the opposite approach. The sudden change left her feeling puzzled and unsure of what was happening.

As the meal arrived, they began to eat. Lucian scanned the room before issuing a command, "Everyone leave."