Chapter Six-Where Boldness Meets Royalty

This was the first time Gabriel had heard her speak. Her voice low, poised, yet rich with quiet strength, held a certain music that made one pause. It was the sort of voice that lingered, tugging at the edges of memory long after the words had been said. He watched her more intently now, intrigued beyond explanation.

The young maiden raised her chin, yet her eyes remained respectfully lowered, a delicate balance of courage and etiquette.

"And what is it you wish to clarify, Miss...?" Emperor Xander inquired, his tone curious, not unkind.

She cleared her throat before responding, her voice steady. "Before I taste anything or allow myself comfort, I must ask, are we truly free from punishment, or is this merely a tactic to lower our guard? I would hate to indulge in fine treatment, only to be reminded of my place when it is most convenient to your Lordships."

A hush fell over the room. Even Lola, usually quick to interrupt, held her tongue. Her friends exchanged glances as they knew Ava. She rarely spoke, but when she did, it was with purpose.

Gabriel leaned back slightly, a smile playing at his lips. She is bolder than I imagined...

Xander tilted his head, intrigued. "And how, pray, do you believe we nobles treat those from... what was it you called it? The lower lane?"

"You already know the answer, my Lord. It would be redundant of me to say it aloud," she replied coolly, meeting his gaze for the first time.

The emperor gave a short, thoughtful nod. "You're bold. I admire that. You need not fear. I have no intention of harming any of you."

Ava inclined her head. "Very well, Your Majesty. I will hold you to your word."

She took up her cutlery at last, earning a subtle breath of relief from her companions. Xander, however, remained fixed in place, watching her.

"And your name, Miss?" he asked.

"Ava. Ava Moreno."

Gabriel tested the name on his tongue softly. "Ava," he repeated, as if the sound itself were a rare delicacy.

"You do realise," Xander added with a smile, "that such boldness can be a dangerous trait in a world like ours?"

Ava took a sip from her cup, calm and composed. "Life itself is dangerous, my Lord. Fear does not guarantee survival, nor does silence ensure safety. I choose to speak."

Gabriel's smirk widened. He liked her. Far more than he expected to.

Xander turned then to Lola, his tone suddenly lighter. "And what of you? What name hides behind that sharp tongue?"

"Charlotte Cavendish," she said with reluctant pride. "But my friends call me Lola."

Xander nodded. "And where do you hail from?"

"Brindle Mark. A little village in the lower lane. I'm certain Your Majesty has never heard of it."

"You are likely correct," Xander replied smoothly. "Still, you are all welcome here. Enjoy the hospitality of Aldovia."

He rose from his seat, Gabriel trailing after him. But not before casting one last glance at Ava who met his gaze briefly, then promptly looked away, disinterested.

As the two noblemen walked through the grand halls, Gabriel folded his arms.

"Since I'm staying, I presume you plan to bury me under royal duties as well," he said dryly.

Xander chuckled. "You presumed right."

"You know, I stayed for the drama, not the paperwork."

"You can't have one without the other, dear friend. Besides…" Xander arched his brow. "It seems you're quite pleased to have learned the lady's name."

Gabriel gave a crooked smile. "She seems… entertaining."

"She doesn't seem the type to fall for charm easily. You may have to work harder than usual."

"When have I ever run from a challenge?" Gabriel smirked, brushing an imaginary speck from his shoulder.

Xander grinned. "This year is shaping up to be an interesting one."

"And what of you?" Gabriel asked. "What plans do you have for your outspoken prisoner?"

But instead of answering, Xander merely smiled and turned the corner, his silence as telling as it was dangerous.