The official's handwriting was neat but hurried across the parchment. I scanned the message, my heart quickening with each word.
"It's from Master Marcus Wilkerson," I said, looking up at Alaric. "He says he needs to speak with us urgently on a matter of great importance."
Alaric's jaw tightened. "Did he specify the nature of this 'great importance'?"
"No," I replied, folding the note carefully. "Only that it cannot wait."
Lady Rowena straightened her back, suddenly all aristocratic poise. "Court officials arriving unannounced? This sounds like something requiring privacy." She placed her paintbrush down with deliberate care. "I shall make myself scarce while you attend to this matter."
Alaric gave his mother a look of genuine surprise. "That's... thoughtful of you."
"Don't sound so shocked, Alaric. I do occasionally demonstrate discretion," she remarked dryly. "Besides, this gives me an excellent opportunity to explore parts of the house I haven't yet seen."
