Alaric arrived, freshly dressed and exuding his usual air of authority, though his stride was sharper than usual. The news of the attempted arson on Jean had reached his ears while he was on his way to his chambers.
But instead of heading there, he pivoted and made his way toward Jean's quarters. If there was one place he was sure to find answers—and Lucius—it was there.
When he reached the door, he knocked firmly, announcing himself. "It's Alaric. Open up."
The door swung open almost instantly, revealing Lucius. The old vampire stood tall, his presence crackling with unspent rage.
His dark eyes shimmered with barely restrained fury, the kind that seemed ready to ignite at the slightest spark.
"You have to kill that woman before she spirals," Lucius said without preamble, stepping aside to let Alaric in. His tone was cold and absolute, as though he had already planned ten different ways to eliminate the threat.
