Lady Christiana's lips parted, her composure as sharp as the blade resting against her skin.
"That's absurd," she said, her voice steady despite the thin line of crimson gliding down her neck.
But no one in the room echoed her protest.
These were no common nobles—they were tacticians, leaders, and prodigies of their respective factions. Their minds turned faster than swords could be drawn. They studied Kael's face… and what they saw there wasn't denial—it was hesitation.
Prince Kael gave a dry, unconvincing chuckle, forcing the tension out of his tone.
"What a ridiculous accusation," he said, waving a hand with mock ease. "This is all a lie. A foolish misunderstanding—"
Eros laughed quietly, the sound low and dangerous.
"In that case," he said, eyes gleaming beneath his lashes, "you won't mind if I kill her, right?"
The words hit like thunder.
