Dinner was announced not long after. General Ryan's aide came to fetch Lucian, bowing stiffly before gesturing for him to follow.
But when Lucian looked behind him, he realized the invitation was for him alone. His companions were left standing in silence.
The secretary, who had been following behind, looked stricken. His face tightened, and he quickly bent forward in apology.
"I—I'm sorry, Lord Lucian. The general… he believes a formal dinner should only be shared between leaders. It's not… it's not my place to question his judgment, but—"
Lucian raised a hand, cutting him off with a calm smile.
"It's fine. I understand. Hosting more guests would strain your already tight supplies. My companions can make do with their own rations."
The words were spoken gently, but they landed like stones.
The secretary froze, his lips trembling. His face paled, and for a brief moment, Lucian thought the man might argue—might shout that this wasn't about supplies but dignity.
