Chapter 15: The Enemy Without a Blade
The corridor swallowed his footsteps.
Leon didn't walk fast, but every stride had weight—measured, quiet, deliberate. The torchlight threw long shadows against the tapestries. The air was colder here, heavier near the council hall. Like the walls themselves had heard what was said.
And didn't agree with it.
He passed a pair of serving maids near the corner. They lowered their heads quickly. Not out of politeness.
Out of caution.
He was no longer just the quiet second son.
Now, he was the cursed one. The marked one. The one whose name demons whispered when no one else could hear.
He turned the gallery corner and nearly walked straight into Elena.
She stopped short, scrolls pressed against her chest, the Veiren seal visible even in the low light. Leon didn't flinch. He didn't even blink.
"Elena," he said evenly.
Her eyes flicked to his face. "I was looking for you."