The study was quiet except for the subtle ticking of a bronze clock on the wall. Moonlight poured through the tall windows, glinting off the polished mahogany floor, and casting long shadows across stacks of scrolls, maps, and leather-bound tomes. The air smelled faintly of parchment and wax, a room built for strategy, war, and secrets.
Sebastian entered slowly, his wet hair now brushed back, droplets still clinging to his shoulders from the pool. The ring on Aliena's finger gleamed faintly in his mind, a constant reminder of the promise they had made beneath the setting sun. He closed the door behind him, a soft click echoing in the silent room.
A moment later, a familiar voice broke the quiet.
"You sent for me."
Miles stepped through the doorway, casually closing it behind him. His calm, relaxed demeanor contrasted sharply with the tension coiled in Sebastian's body. The golden-red eyes of the prince studied Miles briefly before speaking.
