Valerie's name was not spoken, yet it hung in the air like a death sentence.
Sean stood not far away, his face pale, cold sweat tracing his temples. His hands trembled as he finally stepped forward.
"Gordon," he said hoarsely. "This has gone on too long."
Gordon turned sharply. "What are you implying?"
Sean swallowed hard. "We should inform the Duke. Now."
The room fell instantly silent.
Some soldiers exchanged glances. Some turned their faces away. Others clenched their fists.
"Are you insane?" Gordon hissed softly, the threat unmistakable. "If the Duke knows now—"
"I know!" Sean cut in, his voice suddenly rising, almost desperate. "I know he could kill us all. But I also know if we delay telling him, that death will come even faster."
He scrubbed his face with both hands. "Valerie is not an ordinary servant. She's not someone who can simply… disappear."
The name was finally spoken.
