Chapter forty six

Dinner continued in a strained silence. Ambassador Lyra, an enigmatic figure shrouded in silver braids and piercing blue eyes, engaged in polite conversation with the King, their words laced with veiled meanings that went over my head. I, on the other hand, could barely manage a forced smile, my mind replaying the events of the day in a frustrating loop.

Finally, the interminable dinner ended, and I retreated to my chambers, exhaustion clinging to me like a heavy cloak. I stretched, the tension in my muscles threatening to pull me apart, and sank onto the plush bed.

The silence was broken by a soft rapping on the door. "Come in," I called out, hoping it was Mira, my ever-reliable confidante.

The door creaked open, revealing a face unexpected at this hour. Alexander, his usual carefree demeanor replaced by a hint of worry, peeked inside.

"Can I come in?" he asked, already stepping halfway through the doorway.