Early the next morning, Lara arrived at Prince Alaric's estate. Though the palace remained unfinished—its grand halls still echoing with the sounds of ongoing construction—Alaric had ensured that the essentials were complete. His private quarters, the drawing room, and a handful of chambers used for official matters stood polished and ready, a small oasis of order amid the sprawling chaos.
Lara had expected Sandoz to be waiting—and he did not disappoint. He stood at the main entrance like a sentinel, posture straight, arms relaxed at his sides. He wore a plain tunic and fitted trousers, simple garments that did not scream his status as the young heir of a dukedom but it did not diminish the aura that he exuded at such a young age - confidence. He was no longer the timid boy from two years ago.
His gaze was fixed on Lara, so attentive that he failed to notice the two large canines flanking her until it was too late.
