Chapter 234: The Search For Lucius
"I—" Jean began, but her voice faltered.
The king’s face was a mask of contemplation, and he nodded. "We will search her chambers. If there is a stranger there, he will be found."
Jean’s heart sank, her breath hitching. Salviana looked equally stricken, her hand reaching out to steady Jean.
The court seemed poised to explode, the nobles’ whispered theories growing wilder with each passing second.
"I will lead the search," Alaric’s voice cut through the chaos like a blade. He stood, his tall frame commanding the room’s attention.
His expression was calm, but there was a flicker of something dangerous in his eyes. "I cannot have suspicious individuals lurking in the castle or working for my wife. But mark my words, if Margaretha is lying, she will face the harshest punishment."
The king nodded. "So be it. Third Prince, the search is yours to lead. We expect swift resolution."
Jean and Salviana exchanged a terrified glance as Alaric turned to leave. Lucius was hidden in Jean’s quarters, and if he was discovered, the consequences would be disastrous.
Alaric’s steady demeanor betrayed no hint of unease, but inwardly, he was calculating.
Whatever this search uncovered, he would find a way to protect them all—and punish those who sought to tear them down.
The grand hall buzzed with restrained anticipation as the necessary figures—nobles, knights, and guards—rose to follow Alaric’s lead.