The tension had thickened like an approaching storm, a weight pressing against the very walls of the palace. Every glance held secrets, every whisper carried an unspoken threat. And I knew, without a doubt, that Montreve would not let my challenge go unanswered.
The morning after our exchange in the great hall, I found myself summoned to an audience with King Aldric. The request had been formal, yet something in the way the attendant had delivered it felt… off.
Lucian met me in the corridor just outside the King's council chamber. He was already dressed for the day in his usual dark attire, the royal crest gleaming at his shoulder. His gaze met mine, sharp and assessing. "You're prepared?"
"Of course," I murmured. "Should I be concerned?"
Lucian's jaw tightened. "My father does not summon people without reason. And you've been making waves."
I offered a small, wry smile. "Then let's hope I know how to swim."