Eiden's last words hung in the air like iron, final and inescapable.
Anore blinked at him, unsure if he'd misheard. Greatest scholar this kingdom has ever known? The thought made his chest tighten. He wanted to laugh, to scoff at the absurdity of it, but the look on Eiden's face left no room for mockery. The Duke was serious—dangerously so.
Before Anore could form a reply, a soft knock rattled the study doors.
Eiden's head turned, expression sharpening. "Enter."
The door creaked open, revealing Evan. His posture was as composed as ever, but there was a note of urgency in his eyes as they flicked from Anore to his master. He bowed slightly.
"Master… Lady Delphine has arrived.." Evan announced.
Eiden's brows lifted a fraction. "Now?"
