The Edge of Truth

Kaelith had prepared for many things. A confession. A denial. Even an attempt at deception.

But Seraphine's smile? That was unexpected.

She held the letter between her fingers like it was nothing more than a trivial note. But they both knew better.

"You hesitate," she murmured. "Why?"

Kaelith's gaze darkened. "I do not hesitate."

"No?" Seraphine took a slow step forward, closing the distance he had put between them. "Then take it." She extended the letter toward him, an open invitation.

Kaelith didn't move.

Seraphine tilted her head, studying him. "You wanted answers. They're right here."

A challenge.

Kaelith clenched his jaw. She was testing him, forcing him to decide whether he truly wanted the truth—or if he only wanted to chase it.

But he wasn't a man who played games without intent.

With a sharp motion, he took the letter from her grasp, his fingers brushing hers for the briefest second before he unfolded the parchment.

His eyes scanned the contents.

And the moment he read the words, something inside him went cold.

"So it's true." His voice was quiet, but it carried the weight of steel.

Seraphine watched him, her expression unreadable. "That depends on what you think you've discovered."

Kaelith lifted his gaze, his grip on the letter tightening. "You've been sending messages beyond these walls. To an enemy of the crown."

Seraphine didn't deny it. She didn't flinch.

She simply met his stare and whispered, "And what will you do about it, my prince?"

To be continued…