Captain Ronan's urgent words echoed sharply across the vast expanse of the Frozen Lake.
"My Lady collapsed during her walk in the garden."
Ronan paused, catching his breath before adding, "She is awake..."
"But Royal Physician Alaric requests Your Majesty's immediate return."
Cassian's calm expression altered instantly. The sharp, controlled mask he maintained as Sovereign slipped, replaced by an unmistakable shadow of deep tension.
"What happened?" Cassian demanded, his voice dropping into a dangerous, dark register.
Captain Ronan lowered his head respectfully, keeping his tone measured.
"Physician Alaric believes Her Majesty simply exhausted herself."
"He refuses to say anything else until Your Majesty returns to the inner chambers."
Cassian's dark brows knitted together in severe concern. The thought of Lin Wan falling ill inside the cold palace made his blood run cold.
"Was she injured?" he asked sharply.
"No, Your Majesty."
"Did she fall onto the stone path?"
