The Grand Duchess arrived at the estate in her carriage, stepping out with a composed but stern expression.
Her attendants followed in quiet deference, knowing by now that when she moved with this kind of purpose, nothing was to stand in her way.
She swept into the main hall, her voice ringing with quiet authority.
"Bring Melissa and the elf girl—Silvy—to the drawing room. Now! And tell Kyle I wish to speak with him there as well. Alone."
She ordered.
No one questioned her.
She entered the room ahead of them, choosing the seat at the head of a low table. The windows were drawn, and the afternoon sun cast a dull golden hue across the polished floor. There was a heaviness in the air, as if the walls themselves knew what was about to take place.
Kyle arrived first, his brows furrowed in confusion.
"Is something wrong?"
"You'll see. Just sit. Please."
The Grand Duchess replied with a vague smile.
