Meanwhile, Regina and Alden made their way through the quiet corridors to Augustus and Gregoria's chambers.
Once outside the door, Alden knocked firmly, "Father, it's me and Regina."
They waited a moment before hearing Augustus's calm, steady voice respond from within, "Come in."
They pushed the door open and stepped inside to find Augustus seated in his chair, with Gregoria nearby as they both glanced up from their evening reading.
Gregoria leaned forward with a curious look, her gaze sharp. "What do you have on your mind, Son?" she asked.
Alden sighed before choosing his words carefully. "Mother, it's about Julian," he began.
Augustus set his book aside as he gave Alden his full attention. "Ah, yes," Augustus said thoughtfully. "You mentioned something about him changing at the dinner table. What exactly happened?"
