[Cassius's POV—Imperial Hall, Cassius's Chamber, Nightfall]
The sound of my boots echoed across the obsidian floors—each step like a gavel pounding against the bones of memory.
The palace was silent now. Deadly silent.
Not even the wind dared whistle through the high-arched corridors.
The guards at my chamber door stood to attention, but I only spared them a glance. Ravick was already waiting, as expected—his presence like a shadow stitched to my spine. As I approached, he bowed low.
"Your Majesty."
I didn't slow my stride. "If you're here to beg for my daughter's forgiveness…" I flung the door open. "Get out."
He followed me anyway.
Of course he did.
"No, Your Majesty," Ravick said, falling into step behind me. "I am no one to meddle between a father and his daughter."
I paused.
Turned.
My eyes narrowed into blades. "You are her personal knight."
He bowed again, low and respectful. "That title was claimed by Lord Osric after his oath."
