Finally, Alaric let go. The letter slid back into Lucian's grasp.
"You will obey me," Alaric said, his voice sharp as a blade. "If you notice anything — anyone suspicious, anything unusual — you report it directly to me. No delays. No secrets."
Lucian nodded quickly. "Yes, Your Highness. I swear it."
"And in return…" Alaric leaned forward, eyes narrowing, "…you will follow my orders without question. Do you understand me, Lucian? No clever words. No evasions. Submission."
Lucian's lips parted as though to argue, but the look in the prince's eyes silenced him. He lowered his head, letting his hair fall slightly over his face, concealing the faintest smile that tugged at his lips.
"…I understand, my lord"
Alaric watched him a moment longer before sitting back. "Then you may leave. Guards will be posted outside your chambers. If you step out of line…" His words trailed into warning.
