The morning sunlight filtered through the tall windows, casting golden streaks across the grand dining room.
Lucian sat at the head of the long table, his posture relaxed yet commanding.
A slice of bread rested on his plate, half-eaten, while his attention was divided between the food and the guard standing beside him.
"This wing needs reinforcement," Lucian said, his tone curt but thoughtful, gesturing toward a small layout map of the estate spread out beside his plate.
"Double the patrol here during the evenings. I don't want any blind spots."
The guard nodded, his stance stiff and formal. "Understood, sir. Should we also increase the camera coverage?"
Lucian considered for a moment, tapping his fork lightly against the edge of his plate.
"Yes. I want every entrance monitored. And ensure the guards stationed by the east wing are rotated weekly.
Familiarity breeds carelessness."
