Silence lingered.
Not the uncomfortable kind.
The kind that followed words too honest to be challenged.
Lord Valerius regarded the Crown Prince for several long moments. Around them, nobles stood frozen, their expressions ranging from admiration to quiet disbelief. No one had expected Sebastian to intervene, let alone speak with such unwavering conviction.
Then, to everyone's surprise...
The elderly noble smiled.
A genuine one.
Slowly, he lowered his head.
"I stand corrected."
The words rippled through the hall.
Several nobles exchanged astonished glances.
Lord Valerius was not a man known for admitting when he was wrong.
Yet here he was.
"I have served three kings," he continued, his voice carrying through the ballroom. "In all those years, I have learned that wisdom often comes disguised as youth."
His gaze shifted to Aliena.
"I questioned your preparation."
His eyes softened.
"I did not question your heart."
He placed one hand over his chest before bowing deeply.
