“Down the hall,” he said, voice like gravel. “First door on the right. Knock three times.”
Julian gave a curt nod. Jace did the same.
They stepped past him, but not without a backward glance—more instinct than distrust, but heavy all the same. The bear shifter didn’t move, just watched them go, jaw clenched tight.
They entered a long hallway veiled in dim lighting—walls a deep matte black, lined with silver sconces that flickered like candlelight. Their footsteps were the only sound as they walked, every shadow whispering of things best left unseen.
They stopped in front of the door—the first on the right, just as instructed.
Julian knocked three times.
The sound echoed down the corridor, then faded into silence.
Then—quiet footsteps. The click of a lock.
The door opened.
Standing in the threshold was a young woman—striking, with long red hair that shimmered like flame and eyes the color of freshly cut emeralds. Her gaze landed on Julian first, scanning him with impassive precision.
Then she looked past him.
And stopped.
Her eyes locked with Jace’s.
Something passed between them—silent, invisible—but unmistakable. Her pupils darkened slightly, a flicker of recognition… or something deeper. They stared at each other, caught in a moment too long to be casual.
Julian’s brow furrowed as he looked between them, confused.
The woman finally blinked, tearing her gaze from Jace. “Come in,” she said softly, stepping aside.
Jace let out a slow exhale, like he’d been holding it the entire time.
Julian gave him a side glance that asked: You good?
Jace nodded once—tight, wordless.
They stepped inside.
The room was dimly lit—furnished in shadow and velvet, with gilded corners and a stillness that felt almost ceremonial.
“The King has agreed to speak with you,” the woman said, closing the door behind them. “Do you know what his terms are for requesting an audience unannounced and uninvited… or shall I explain them to you?”
Jace didn’t blink. “We’re aware.”
Their eyes met again. Another pulse passed between them—quieter this time, but still there.
She nodded. “Very well. Let’s get to it then.”


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