[Silthara Palace—Private Courtyard—Continuation]
"…But I have no intention of appointing you as my personal attendant, Lady Arinaya."
The words settled between them.
Arinaya's fingers twitched—just once—betraying the strain beneath her composure. Yet her spine remained straight, her chin lifted, and her dignity unbroken.
Levin watched her closely, then he continued, his voice calm, almost conversational.
"I have no shortage of attendants," he said. "They bring tea, they arrange chambers, and they perform every small task their Malika desires."
He lifted his cup, letting the steam curl between them.
"So tell me," Levin went on, eyes steady, "what reason would compel me to place a noble daughter of House Karzath—one raised to command—into such a position? What is it that you seek, Lady Arinaya?"
Arinaya met his gaze, "Malika… I only desire to—"
"I would prefer honesty," Levin interrupted gently but firmly. "Unvarnished, perhaps it will persuade me."
