Julius barely processed the words coming out of Riley's mouth—not because they lacked importance, but because something, or rather someone, had completely stolen his attention.
Ruby.
She stood behind Riley, almost half-shielded by the flowing black-and-silver robes of the Raven Clan's delegation, yet her presence radiated like a flare in the night.
Julius's eyes widened ever so slightly, a thousand thoughts flashing through his mind in the span of a heartbeat.
Her beautiful face, unmistakable even from afar, stirred a storm of emotions within him.
Surprise. Tension. Anger. Retribution.
And just like that, the reason for Riley's visit became clear.
So that's why they were here.
Riley. The Raven Clan. A force that rarely moved unless the stakes were high.
Now, it all made sense.
But Julius was no fool. He didn't let his inner turmoil show.
Years of leadership, political maneuvering, and martial discipline kicked in.
