Inside the estate, the grand hall looked as magnificent as ever.
The tall windows let in the golden sunlight, and the chandeliers reflected the light onto the shiny floors. Yet, despite its beauty, the air felt heavy and tense, as if the walls could feel the seriousness of the moment.
Lord Marius eased into a high-backed chair, his movements deliberate and measured. He gestured for Orion to sit beside him. The young man obeyed without hesitation, his eagerness palpable. Viviana lingered a few steps away, arms crossed, her sharp gaze flickering between her father and son. The tension in her posture was unmistakable, her confusion mounting with every passing second.
"Now," Orion began, his voice tinged with hope and urgency. He leaned forward, his hands gripping the edge of the table. "How did it go, Grandfather?"
