Alaric sat on his dark-golden throne, one hand resting on his chin as he pondered deeply.
Cedric stood beside him, gripping his staff, his silver hair cascading freely over his shoulders. His recent failure to trick Lionel had left him anxious, and he had been carefully weighing his options.
"You still haven't managed to track Allison?" Alaric's voice broke the silence, his piercing gaze shifting to Cedric.
Cedric bowed deeply. "Apologies, Your Majesty. I completely forgot to report what I discovered while tracking the prince."
"You forgot?" Alaric's brow arched, his tone carrying a sharp edge. "Well, now that I've reminded you, speak."
