Meanwhile, across the estate grounds, Thea walked the familiar path to the main residence.
She had changed into a simple but elegant robe—deep indigo edged in silver, hair pinned neatly back—before leaving the Moonvilla wing.
Her steps were steady despite the lingering exhaustion, her expression calm but resolute. Kaelan had sent word earlier: the Shadow Sovereign Isolde had arrived and was resting in the eastern guest quarters. More importantly, he wanted Thea to begin training in earnest—proper grooming to succeed him as House Lord.
She found them in the lord's study.
Kaelan sat behind the massive oak desk, scrolls and ledgers spread before him like a battlefield map.
Isolde lounged in a high-backed chair near the window, one leg crossed over the other, idly twirling a thin dagger between her fingers. She looked up as Thea entered and offered a bright, almost playful smile.
"Thea," she said warmly. "You've grown even lovelier since I last saw you."
