Soon Tom returned with the girls, Lucas stepped out himself and lifted the flap, his expression tired but steady, then waved Lira, Selene, and Nyx inside. When Tom tried to follow, Lucas raised a hand gently.
"Stay outside for now," Lucas said. "I'll call you if I need you."
Tom studied his face for a moment, clearly wanting to argue, then nodded. "I'll be right here," he said quietly.
The tent closed, leaving the four of them inside. The air felt heavy at once, thick with unsaid things. Lira noticed it immediately and slowed her steps, Selene remained standing, and Nyx's eyes went straight to Lucas, searching him.
"What's wrong," Nyx asked. "You look like you so worried."
Lucas rubbed his palm slowly over his face, careful around the scarred skin, then let out a breath. "The king doesn't trust anyone anymore," he said. "Not the council. Not the commanders. Not even those closest to him."
Nyx stiffened. "What do you mean not even those closest to him."
