Kael turned to look at Theron. The Crown Prince had gone visibly pale.
"I will speak with you at home, Father," Kael said, carefully keeping his voice neutral.
Edric pressed his lips together, his expression tightening with the sort of restraint that meant the situation was already worse than either of them wanted to admit. "Is the Crown Prince with you?"
Kael nodded once.
Edric let out a slow breath, and the portal vanished.
That, more than anything, told Kael the matter had already reached the palace.
His father would not have let the connection drop if it were only a private concern. This had become royal business now.
Kael looked back at Theron. "Sire—"
"You will speak with your father," Theron said at once.
He did not say more. He did not need to. Every word in this room could be heard by someone they could not see, and Theron knew it. Kael understood immediately and lowered his head.
