"Thank you for receiving me," the King said.
His voice carried easily through the hall, smooth and unhurried, the kind of tone that assumed obedience without ever demanding it. "I know it is unusual, what I have done. But one of my own was in danger. That is why I have come personally."
Lies king, Raphael thought silently.
He rolled his eyes inward, careful not to betray himself outwardly. Did the King truly expect them to believe this was about concern? That he had crossed borders, treaties, and centuries of unspoken rules simply to deliver someone? It felt... No it was a lie dressed up as virtue.
Still, caution and politeness was mandatory.
"Your concern for your own is admirable," Raphael said aloud.
The word admirable tasted foul. He nearly cringed around it.
Before the King could respond, Lydia stepped forward. She moved with measured confidence, her spine straight, her expression composed but Raphael felt the tension ripple through the wolves behind her.
