==================
The atmosphere in the Rudenheischt Castle's lobby was markedly different now.
The warmth of the room's intricate wood carvings and the gentle glow of sunlight filtering through the high windows couldn't quite lift the tension that lingered between Amaranthe and the Master of Magic.
After much deliberation, the King and Queen decided to move the meeting with the Masters to a more private setting to discuss the details of their invitation.
Kayer, Emette, and Amaranthe accompanied them, their expressions a mix of curiosity.
This left Cheska, still dazed by the whirlwind of events, sitting quietly on the cushioned bench by the window.
Beside her, Ayessa hummed softly, flipping through the pages of a book she wasn't really reading.
However, Cheska's attention was elsewhere.
Her gaze rested on Duchess Elenoir Glandza, standing with a rigid posture near the far wall.
