Rain had fallen the night before, leaving the cobbled paths of the estate slick and silver under the morning sun. Liora's gaze lingered on the garden walls as she walked with purpose , not toward Lucien's study, but toward the west wing, where the estate's archives were kept. She hadn't dared enter them until now.
The guard stationed there barely glanced at her. She was Lucien's concubine, after all and for most, that was enough to make them look away.
But inside, hidden behind ancient tapestries and half-forgotten ledgers, she found a man already waiting.
"Forgive me for intruding, my lady," the stranger said, his voice polite, calm. "I'm Osric Vale. Minister of Military Provisions. Newly arrived from the capital."
Liora blinked. "You're far from the court, Minister."
He smiled. "And you're far from where the court believes you belong."
Before she could answer, Osric continued, lowering his voice.
