He could not tell whether it was the wine speaking, but the Duke was definitely letting certain things slip.
Ever since the envoy from the capital had visited the duchy, his father had rarely discussed anything political with him. Today, for the first time, the Duke himself had brought up the coming war and had even used older names that pointed clearly toward the erased history of the Kingdom of Valthor.
Julian noted it. He considered pressing for more detail, then decided against it. The Duke was still an Arch Mage. Even with wine in his system he remained aware of the boundaries of what should and should not be said. Pushing too hard would only create unnecessary suspicion.
The conversation then drifted toward more personal ground.
"Speaking of the future," the Duke said, "are you ready for the marriage?"
Julian met his father's gaze evenly.
"Honestly, I am not sure."
The Duke raised an eyebrow, though there was no real disapproval in the expression.
