[Lavinia's Chamber—Later—Lavinia's Pov]
Strange.
Very strange.
I tapped my finger against the armrest again, the sound echoing in the quiet room like a ticking clock.
How did General Luke know Haldor's birthday is tomorrow?
Haldor—who never speaks about himself. Never celebrates. Never acknowledges dates. Never even mentions personal details unless forced.
So how…?
My eyes narrowed.
No one from Eloria knows his birthday. I don't even know his age. He brushes questions away like dust.
Then how did Luke—a man from a conquered kingdom—know? Something is wrong. Something doesn't add up.
Before the thought could deepen, a sharp knock rattled the door.
KNOCK. KNOCK.
"Your Highness," Luke's voice came through the wood—steady, respectful, and perfectly controlled. "General Arwin has arrived."
"Send him inside," I said.
The door opened, and Arwin strode in, bowing deeply. "Greetings, Your Highness."
I nodded once. "Arwin."
