Chapter 12: Reporting to Father
March 28th, 1788.
Later that evening.
Lancelot was on his way to his father’s bedroom. He was escorted by Alicia who was walking ahead of him.
They reached the King’s door. Two royal guards stood at attention, clad in their formal uniforms, halberds upright. Their expressions were unreadable, but both saluted the moment Lancelot approached.
"Open the door," Alicia ordered, standing with hands clasped behind her back.
"With all due respect, Lady Viremont," one of the guards began, "His Majesty has requested no disturbances. He is already asleep—"
"You seem to misunderstand," Alicia cut in smoothly, taking a step forward. "The orders I carry come from the Regent. Do you defy the authority of the Crown?"
The men stiffened. There was a pause—but not long enough for doubt to take root.
"No, milady," the lead guard said, bowing his head. "Forgive us."
The guards unlatched the doors and pulled them open with care, revealing the dim room beyond.
Lancelot turned to Alicia. "Thank you. I’ll speak with him alone."