The Duke stood in silence for a moment before nodding toward his office doors.
"Come."
He said, his voice as composed as ever.
Kyle followed without a word, his steps measured and silent.
He could feel the weight of the Duke's gaze at his back, heavy with curiosity, scrutiny—and perhaps approval.
Inside the office, the Duke gestured toward a seat across from his desk, where a steaming cup of tea had already been placed.
Kyle took the seat, lifted the cup, and took a slow sip.
The scent was familiar—an old favorite of his father's. A subtle test of comfort, perhaps. Kyle didn't react.
The Duke didn't waste time. He placed the written report Kyle had sent ahead of his return on the table.
"Fill in the blanks."
Kyle gave a brief nod and began.
He detailed the incident with Tirakos—how the ritual had been set to consume the village, how it had used forbidden magic, and how he'd intervened.
