Bound by Chains

The massive doors of the common room towered in front of her as Delphinia followed Lyvia down the grand hallway. Her steps faltered for a moment, but Lyvia turned her head, her expression tight but polite.

"It's gonna be okay, Delphie," Lyvia comforted her.

Delphinia straightened her posture and continued, her nerves masked by a carefully composed expression. The common room was as lavish as she remembered—polished oak furniture, a grand fireplace crackling softly, and the faint scent of old books and expensive cologne lingering in the air.

Sitting in one of the couch was her father. His presence dominated the room, his steely gaze already fixed on her as she entered.

"Sit," Robert commanded, gesturing to the chair across from him.