Once inside the grand hall, Aeliana followed Lucian closely, her brow furrowed with concern. She could tell something was troubling him deeply, more than just Lady Selinthra's unwelcome visit.
Lucian led her to the long dining table, its polished surface reflecting the flicker of the massive chandelier above. Kael followed silently, his sword still in hand, scanning the room for any lingering threats.
Lucian gestured for Aeliana to sit, pouring a goblet of wine for her before leaning back in his chair. He ran a hand through his dark hair, his usual stoic demeanor cracking ever so slightly.
"Selinthra," he began, his voice low, "is a powerful sorceress and the head of a coven notorious for meddling in affairs they have no business in. She and I share a… complicated history. We were allies once, but her ambition knows no bounds. If she's here, it's not without a hidden agenda."
