Inside the reception hall of Duval Castle.
Beside the head seat, the chair reserved for the Baron was empty.
The Former Lady Baron sat alone to the left of the head seat, her deep blue gown lending her an air of severe dignity.
Bernard the butler stood behind her with his hands clasped, like a silent shadow.
Knight Terence and Cecilia sat in the guest seats.
The little girl's back was straight, her hands folded in her lap. Her doll-like, exquisite face showed no trace of emotion.
"Knight Terence, please forgive us," the Former Lady Baron said, lifting a silver cup and taking a small sip of honey water. "Sylvan has been unwell recently. The doctor has advised him to rest, so I will be presiding over today's reception in his stead. That boy... Ever since... well, his health has never fully recovered. It is a constant worry."
Terence understood perfectly.
'Unwell?'
'More likely an excuse for being sidelined in a power struggle.'
