"Your Majesty… have you heard of the Sundering Cataclysm?"
Therion's voice carried a quiet gravity as he asked the question, his eyes fixed respectfully on Aurelia.
Aurelia did not hesitate.
"Yes, of course," she replied immediately. "The event that led to witches being heavily restricted in Virelia. It is mentioned often in the court histories, though I suspect the official records do not tell the entire story."
Therion gave a faint nod.
"You would be correct in that assumption, Your Majesty. The official records are… simplified."
Aurelia tilted her head with interest.
"Oh? Then perhaps you should enlighten me, Ser Therion. I would very much like to hear the version that soldiers whisper among themselves when court scribes are not present."
Therion allowed himself the faintest smile before continuing.
"During the Sundering Cataclysm, a coven of witches launched a direct attack on Valkoron itself."
"To assassinate the king?" Aurelia asked.
