Torren took the scroll, its weight feeling far heavier in his hand than such a small object should. He tucked it carefully into his tunic, pressing it against his ribs where it wouldn't be visible. His expression remained guarded but resolute.
"This better work, Dorian," he said, his voice low. A hint of defiance finally broke through his carefully maintained composure.
Dorian chuckled, a sound rich with amusement. He leaned back in his chair, completely at ease. "It will. Nightshade Valley fears no one within the Aurelian Empire, and they definitely don't miss." He paused deliberately, then added with a smirk, "Unlike my men, apparently."
His eyes flicked briefly to Evelyne.
She remained stone-faced as she paced the booth, her expression giving nothing away.
The booth gradually fell silent.
Only the soft clink of goblets from the main dining area and the gentle tune of the pavilion's musicians drifted through the heavy curtains, filling the void between them.
