Cece, Damien, and Edward grew curious as well and leaned forward, their full attention fixed on King Iskara. Iskara's gaze moved over everyone in the room, and he realised there was no longer any reason to keep the truth hidden. He had never intended to conceal it from Ivan in the first place.
But with Ivan already blaming himself for his mother's death, Iskara had not wanted to add to that burden by revealing that the Darkrots had entered the palace that night because of Ivan, an event that ultimately led to Queen Irene's passing.
He exhaled heavily and began, "It's not that I meant to hide it from you, Ivan. You must know that. I only wished to keep it hidden from those who walk in the shadows, lest they come after you should they learn of it. And you were far too young back then."
Understanding his father's words, Ivan simply nodded. "I understand."
Then Iskara repeated the very words Septimus had spoken before:
