In the small private library, silence weighed heavily with the burden of Elizabeth's life-threatening scheme. Seraphim was inspecting his gear and weapons for his mission into the Forbidden Territories. The map Elizabeth had pointed to, marking a forgotten underground city, remained spread out on the table.
"I will leave as soon as it's fully dark," Seraphim said, checking the sharpness of the dagger tucked beneath his cloak. "They will be willing to listen—the vampires hate Varlen no less than we do."
"They won't just listen; they will demand payment," Elizabeth replied, her eyes fixed on the library door. She was already anticipating Varlen's retaliation. "Be ready, Seraphim. We'll be attacked legally before you even get halfway there."
As if her words were a spell, a heavy, rhythmic knock sounded at the door—a knock that didn't request permission, but made a declaration.
Before Elizabeth could respond, the oak door was shoved open, revealing the tall, slender figure of a man in dark blue formal wear embroidered with the crest of House Ryan, a symbol of loyalty to Varlen. Lawrence Ryan, the second son of the house, with a handsome, cold face, entered with a rolled parchment in his hand.
"Lady Elizabeth," Lawrence's voice was soft, yet laced with derision. "I hope I am not interrupting your moment of reflection on the consequences of your actions."
Seraphim moved instantly, interposing himself between Elizabeth and the visitor.
"State your business, Ryan," Seraphim growled in a low, menacing tone.
Lawrence offered a slight smile at the defense he clearly deemed futile. He slowly unfurled the parchment, as if to ensure his action created maximum pressure.
"This is a formal summons from the Council," Lawrence announced, his voice loud and clear. "Based on the accusations presented by several nobles, concerning a grave breach of the ancient Covenant and a threat to the Confederacy's peace."
He held the scroll in his hand, not offering it, but forcing Elizabeth to step forward to receive it herself.
"You are summoned to testify before the Emergency Tribunal Committee before sunrise tomorrow," Lawrence added, his eyes clearly reflecting pleasure. "Lord Varlen expressed deep concern for your well-being. He asked me to inform you that any attempt to flee will be regarded as an admission of guilt."
Elizabeth stepped forward calmly, taking the officially sealed parchment into her hands. She didn't look at Lawrence, but her eyes glanced over his shoulder toward Seraphim.
"Thank you for the news, Ryan," Elizabeth replied coolly, before swiftly tearing the summons into two pieces without even a glance. The sound of the tearing paper cracked sharply in the silence.
Lawrence froze, the mockery vanishing from his face.
"Tell Varlen that I will attend," Elizabeth stated. "But not as the defendant. I will attend as the one who raises questions, and I demand that he include accusations concerning his own corruption and conspiracy on the agenda."
She turned her back, dismissing the visitor: "As for you... Seraphim," she commanded. "Tonight, you have more important things to do."