The summon arrived by dawn.
Not by parchment this time.
By escort.
Two royal guards waited outside the greenhouse doors, polished armor catching the early light.
"His Majesty requires your presence." one said.
Requires.
Not requests.
Elias wiped soil from his fingers onto a cloth and nodded once.
His vibration in hands had been steady all morning. Not violent. Just constant.
He followed them.
*****************
The King did not keep him waiting.
This time the meeting room was different. Smaller. No sunlight. No attendants.
Cassian stood near the window.
He didn't seem surprised to see Elias.
He looked tired.
The King remained seated.
"Elias Thornbloom." he said calmly. "Your condition has proven… inconvenient."
Elias bowed.
"I apologize, Your Majesty."
"Do you."
The King folded his hands.
"I have considered the matter carefully. My son's magic has been violent and out of control for years. Since your arrival at the Academy, it has not been."
Silence.
