At midnight the castle was still.
Moving through the east wing like a shadow, Aric's shoes made no sound as they met the cold stone. He was not an idiot — this could be a setup. But if Lady Isadora wanted him dead, she would not have extended such a frank invitation.
No, this was something else.
And he was excited to learn what she wanted.
He came to the door — a grand, polished oak entrance engraved with delicate patterns of ivy and roses. An intimate space. He smirked. Fitting.
He didn't hesitate and pushed it open.
Inside was Lady Isadora, at a great open window, glowing silver in the moonlight.
Gone was the fitted gown from earlier; she was now draped in a more revealing silk robe. The deep green fabric hugged her curves, and when she turned, her emerald eyes twinkled with amusement.
"You're brave," she said, "to come here without hesitation."
Stepping through the door, Aric smirked. "And you're dangerous, sending an invitation so obvious."
Isadora chuckled. "The Duke is watching you. He will attempt to manipulate you… or annihilate you."
Aric was leaning against the doorframe with his arms crossed. "And what is it you're after, my lady?"
She moved closer, dragging a single finger along his chest, teasing his resolve, testing privilege.
"I would like to know what type of man you are," she said softly.) "A reckless brute? Or someone worth … investing in?"
Aric seized her wrist, holding it so tightly it hurt. Not hard enough to hurt. Just enough to remind her who he was.
Her breath caught a little, but the smile grew larger.
"So," she purred, "which one is it?"
Aric held her gaze.
Lady Isadora was not just another noblewoman. She was a strategist, a survivor. A long game woman.
"You're presenting me with something," Aric said. "What is it?"
She retracted her wrist, with a slight step back "A choice."
She poured a glass of wine, swirling the dark liquid as she spoke.
"The Duke will never trust you. You humiliated his knight. You refused his command. At this instant he's weighing whether you're worth keeping alive."
Aric smirked. "Let him try."
Isadora laughed. "I admire your confidence."
She had a sip, then looked back at him. "Join me instead."
The words were spoken quietly, but they were significant.
"Be my ally," she went on. "I have power, wealth and knowledge. Together, we could change this kingdom … or take it for our own."
Aric studied her. She was ambitious. Cunning. Deadly.
And she was inviting him to sit by her side.
Aric took the goblet from her and raised it to his lips, never breaking her gaze. She was testing him.
"I don't serve," he said. "I lead."
Isadora smiled. "Then let us lead together."
She moved in, pressed a hand to his chest. Her touch was warm, inviting. A different kind of test.
"Power," she said softly, "is best when shared … don't you think?"
Aric smirked.
This was more than politics. It was a game of dominance.
And he was ready to play.