Chapter 21

The room was dimly lit, the flickering firelight casting shadows on the stone walls. Kaden slouched in his chair, his hand lazily swirling the contents of his goblet. The wine was rich and bitter, just as he liked it. He tilted his head back, letting the liquid burn down his throat as it drowned the weight of his thoughts.

The door creaked open, and Isaiah entered, his face drawn with concern. He paused in the doorway, hesitating before stepping into the room. "Kaden," he said, his voice low.

Kaden didn't turn. "If you've come to join me, the goblet is there. Help yourself."

Isaiah frowned, stepping closer. "I've come to tell you that the elders are waiting for you in the council chamber. They demand your presence."