[Alvar's POV — Leif's Office—Same Time]
"Woaaahhh!"
"Ohhh!"
"Thank you, my lord!"
The courtyard echoed with cheers, the kind of joy only soldiers could make over shiny rocks and exaggerated speeches.
I stood by the window, arms crossed, watching from above as Leif smiled at them—his expression warm, genuine, and radiant enough to rival the sunlight spilling across the marble floors.
He really doesn't even realize it…
The way his voice carried through the air, steady and kind: "It may become a small kingdom of its own, all because of you. So, thank you for everything—and for coming back safe."
My lips curved faintly. "He'll definitely become a good ruler…" I murmured under my breath.
A voice, smooth and familiar, cut through my thoughts like a blade.
"That's because… that's the fate he's already chosen."
I didn't need to turn to know who it was. The Second Prince's tone always carried that irritating mix of amusement and warning.
