Prince Mikalius sat in his private garden, surrounded by fragrant lilacs and the soft sound of running water.
The tea in his porcelain cup had gone lukewarm, but he didn't mind. The early sun cast golden hues across the palace stones, and for a moment, everything felt peaceful.
That peace was shattered when a shadow crossed the threshold of the garden.
"Your Highness, we've received word… from the internal investigators."
A guard whispered, eyes darting nervously.
Mikalius raised a brow but gestured calmly for the man to continue.
The guard handed over a scroll sealed with wax.
"Clertion is mobilizing forces. It's not open war yet, but… the target is the Grand Duchess Amanda."
The prince's hand stilled mid-motion. He broke the seal, eyes scanning the contents swiftly. A pulse of annoyance flickered in his chest.
