Chapter 143: A Question Without Preparation
Lyria's POV
Duke Thorncrest made a low sound beside me, something between a sigh and a scoff, as though the entire announcement had left a bitter taste in his mouth.
"What a benevolent pair of rulers," he said lightly.
Baron Redwick snorted immediately, not bothering to hide his disbelief.
"If that is benevolence," he muttered, "then I fear the definition has shifted beyond recognition."
The Queen spoke again in that same tone of hers.
"There is one final matter," she said.
I felt something tighten faintly in my chest at those words.
"I am pleased to announce," she continued, "that in response to the expressed wishes of the people, there will be formal interviews conducted for all candidates."
A murmur of interest rippled through the courtyard below, though it did not reach us fully.
"Both Moon candidates and suitor candidates alike," she clarified, "will be required to participate."
Baron Redwick frowned immediately.
