Chapter 10 - A Private Conversation & Unspoken Expectations

After the intense discussion at dinner, Aldric found himself summoned privately by his father. The Ravensbourne Manor's dimly lit corridors stretched before him, torches flickering as servants moved like shadows in the background. The summons was expected—Alaric Ravensbourne was not a man to let such a conversation end at the dining table.

Lucien had given him a subtle nod as they parted ways, his gaze sharp with curiosity and hidden thoughts. Marquise Gustov had left, seemingly pleased with Aldric's input, but his father's intentions were still unclear.

Aldric stopped in front of his father's study, a heavy oaken door marked with intricate carvings of the Ravensbourne sigil—a raven clutching a sword.

With a deep breath, he knocked.

"Enter," came Alaric's measured voice.

Aldric pushed open the door and stepped inside.

The study was a fortress of knowledge and power. Bookshelves lined the walls, filled with ancient tomes and ledgers detailing the affairs of both kingdom and family. A grand desk sat at the center, its surface adorned with maps, military reports, and wax-sealed letters—the tools of a man who commanded both armies and politics.

Alaric stood near the fireplace, a goblet of deep red wine in his hand. The firelight cast sharp shadows across his face, emphasizing the chiseled features of a battle-hardened noble. His presence was imposing, even when silent.

Aldric stepped forward and bowed slightly. "You wished to speak with me, Father?"

Alaric took a slow sip of his wine before answering. "Sit."

Aldric obeyed, taking the chair across from his father's desk.

For a moment, silence filled the study, broken only by the crackling of the fire. Then, Alaric's sharp gaze locked onto Aldric.

"You surprised me today," he said, voice steady but carrying weight. "That was not the mind of a reckless boy speaking at dinner."

Aldric met his father's gaze without hesitation. "I take that as a compliment."

A flicker of amusement crossed Alaric's face before vanishing. "Lucien has always been the strategist, the one I expected to inherit my position as head of this house. You… were different."

Aldric nodded, understanding what his father meant. The old Aldric had been dull-witted, complacent, more interested in fleeting pleasures than the responsibilities of nobility. His sudden change had to be disorienting for those who had known him.

"And yet," Alaric continued, "you spoke tonight as if you had spent years on the battlefield. Tell me, Aldric… where did you learn such things?"

Aldric chose his next words carefully. His father was no fool—any weak excuse would only deepen his suspicions.

He exhaled. "I had a lot of time to think while I was unconscious. When I awoke, it felt as if a fog had lifted from my mind."

Not a lie. Just… not the whole truth.

Alaric studied him, the intensity of his stare like a sword pressed against his throat.

Then, he let out a quiet chuckle.

"Hmph. Perhaps nearly dying was the best thing that ever happened to you."

Aldric smiled slightly. "I wouldn't recommend it as a method of self-improvement."

His father's amusement faded as he placed his goblet on the table and leaned forward.

"You may have impressed Gustov, but don't mistake that for trust. You gave him a solution to his problem, and that bought you favor—but favor is not loyalty."

Aldric nodded. "I understand."

Alaric studied him for another moment before continuing.

"The nobility will not accept you easily. Your past reputation as a fool is not so easily erased. If you truly want to prove yourself, you must show them that you are more than just words."

Aldric's mind raced.

'He's testing me. He wants to see if my intelligence is just for show—or if I can truly apply it.'

Alaric leaned back in his chair. "Lucien will be observing you closely. Your actions will determine whether you earn his respect or his suspicion. The same goes for me."

The weight behind those words was clear.

Aldric was not just fighting for his place in the family—he was fighting to prove he deserved it.

Aldric straightened his posture. "Then I will show you that my change is not a fleeting one, Father."

Alaric regarded him for a long moment before nodding.

"Good."

He stood, signaling the conversation was over.

"One last thing," Alaric said as Aldric rose. "The Ravensbourne name carries both power and enemies. If you are serious about your ambitions, be prepared. The moment you step forward, you will be challenged."

Aldric's lips curled into a small, confident smirk.

"I wouldn't have it any other way."