CHAPTER 99
The night had already grown heavy when King Charlenugo came unannounced into her chamber. Grace had just sat, her head buried in her palms, struggling to hush the voice that now returned at every quiet moment. The sound lingered.
The door opened without a knock, and the tall frame of King Charlenugo stepped in, his hand pushing it with authority. His beard was trimmed sharp, his clothes still carrying the scent wine. His eyes held no softness.
"Quicke," he called firmly, though his voice cracked slightly as he studied her slumped form. "You cannot delay any longer. The war won't wait for your weakness."
Grace lifted her head slowly. The deep baritone slipped from her lips, though inside she was trembling. "Father…"
