[House Karzath—The Next Morning—Lady Arinaya's Chamber]
Morning light crept into the chamber like a cautious witness.
It slid across carved pillars and silk cushions, touched the bronze inlays on the floor, and lingered near the low couch where Lady Arinaya sat—one leg folded beneath her, posture composed but not at ease.
"Hm," she murmured at last, fingers tapping softly against the armrest. "So… he did not accept the resignation."
Across from her, Captain Raevahn stood straight-backed, hands clasped behind him, armor absent but discipline intact.
"No, my lady," he replied evenly. "He tore the parchment and declared it void."
A faint, humorless breath left her lips.
"Of course he did." She leaned back, gaze lifting to the ceiling as if the stone itself might offer counsel. "Rakhane does not release what he believes belongs to him. Not power. Not serpents."
Raevahn lowered his eyes a fraction. "He said I would never leave his side while he lives."
