Accusation In Front Of Guests

Alaric's gaze snapped to Jaron, who was smoothing his tunic as though he had just hurried over. His face was a little too composed — like he'd carefully arranged his expression moments before stepping through the door.

Alaric's jaw tightened until his teeth ached. His vision blurred at the edges, and the world seemed to tilt on its axis.

Did Jaron have something to do with Salviana's disappearance?

Was she—was she somewhere close by, hidden within these very walls?

And why did it seem like Jaron was trying too hard to appear normal?

King Gideon's voice cut through Alaric's boiling thoughts. "So, Third Prince, what say you to this marriage truce between Wyfn-garde and Tackeros?"

Alaric didn't respond.

He was already moving — his feet carrying him slowly, deliberately, toward Jaron.

Lucius, still lurking in the shadows with his ever-present umbrella, tilted his head curiously.

The air in the hall crackled.