"I—" Jean began, but her voice faltered.
The king's face was a mask of contemplation, and he nodded. "We will search her chambers. If there is a stranger there, he will be found."
Jean's heart sank, her breath hitching. Salviana looked equally stricken, her hand reaching out to steady Jean.
The court seemed poised to explode, the nobles' whispered theories growing wilder with each passing second.
"I will lead the search," Alaric's voice cut through the chaos like a blade. He stood, his tall frame commanding the room's attention.
His expression was calm, but there was a flicker of something dangerous in his eyes. "I cannot have suspicious individuals lurking in the castle or working for my wife. But mark my words, if Margaretha is lying, she will face the harshest punishment."
The king nodded. "So be it. Third Prince, the search is yours to lead. We expect swift resolution."
