The rumor reached Marcus before Celeste left the receiving chamber.
Albert might offer Evelyn the title of Luna in exchange for the banners. The noble who reported it expected anger. Marcus gave him none.
He folded the message once and placed it beside the unsigned recognition treaty on the council table. A title could not purchase Evelyn. That did not mean Albert would understand the difference.
The doors opened. Albert entered with two Greyhaven councilors and dismissed them before they crossed the room.
“You requested a private audience,” Marcus said.
“I requested an answer.”
Albert stopped opposite him. The ceremonial crown remained in the adjoining hall, visible through the open doors. Ravencrest iron caught the winter light above its Greyhaven silver base. A crown waiting for w
