Chapter 151: [151] Welcome to the Gilded Cage
The quarters Lord Commander Alaric led Xavier to were nothing like what he’d expected. Instead of stone walls and iron bars, Xavier found himself in a chamber that belonged in a palace. Tapestries depicting the eternal flame hung from polished volcanic stone walls, while crystal formations embedded in the ceiling cast warm, golden light throughout the space. A fire crackled in an ornate hearth, and steam rose from what appeared to be a private bathing chamber carved into the far wall.
"Your accommodations," Alaric announced, gesturing broadly. "I trust they meet with your approval."
Xavier stepped inside, his boots silent on the thick carpet that covered most of the floor. A table near the window held an array of food that made his mouth water—roasted meat, fresh bread, cheese, and fruits he hadn’t seen since leaving Nexus Point. Clean clothes were laid out on the massive bed, fine fabrics in deep blues and grays that would mark him as nobility.
"This is generous," Xavier said carefully, running his fingers along the edge of the table. The wood was smooth, expensive.
"Heroes deserve comfort." Alaric’s tone was pleasant, but his green eyes watched Xavier’s every reaction. "The High Burner insisted on our finest guest quarters when he heard of your... exploits."
"And what exactly has the High Burner heard?"
"Stories travel fast in winter. A man who kills Thornbeasts the way they say becomes legend before the blood dries." Alaric clasped his hands behind his back, the gesture casual but alert. "Merchants speak of it in the markets. Guards tell the tale in taverns. By now, half the city believes you’re some sort of divine champion."
"I’m not."
"No?" Alaric tilted his head slightly. "Then what are you?"
Xavier considered the question while studying the man before him. Alaric carried himself like a soldier, but his eyes held the calculating intelligence of a politician. The kind of man who survived by reading people correctly and acting on that knowledge.
"Someone who was in the right place at the right time," Xavier said finally.
"Modest. I appreciate that quality." Alaric moved toward the door, pausing with his hand on the handle. "The High Burner and Duke Haverford will want to meet you shortly. I suggest you make use of the bath and fresh clothes before then. First impressions matter in Hearthome."