Finn's voice rang out loud and clear, filled with desperate determination and absolutely zero shame.
The words echoed sharply through the chamber.
Outside, the guards and servants stiffened in shock, their eyes widening as hushed murmurs rippled along the corridor.
Inside, even Orion's expression faltered....if only for the briefest moment. Genuine surprise flashed across his face before it was buried beneath his usual composed indifference.
Slowly, he lowered the book he had been reading. His fingers lingered on its cover for a second longer than necessary before he set it aside completely. Sitting upright, he fixed his gaze on Finn, sharp and probing.
"And where," Orion finally asked, his voice calm but edged with disbelief, "is this coming from?"
He rose from the bed in one smooth motion and began walking toward Finn who began moving back.
Before Finn could react, Orion had already closed the distance.
