Caedes POV
I stood at the castle's main gate, staring up at the imposing structure before me. Just ahead, the grand throne hall looms, its towering arches and intricate carvings a constant reminder of the weight this place carries. My chest tightens. This was it—my departure.
King Philip stood nearby, his expression a mix of resignation and something I couldn't quite place. Guilt, maybe. Or was it frustration?
He cleared his throat, as if trying to ease the tension in the air. "Boy," he began, his tone strangely soft, "I know I should have treated you better. Things have been... complicated since you arrived. Lilith had gone missing, and the whole castle was in a panic. We were all on edge, and we overlooked receiving you properly. Especially after Myrtil—"
