Chapter Twenty-Four
The First Friend
Lunch was loud.
Not because anyone argued.
Because everyone seemed to enjoy talking at once.
The Citadel's western terrace overlooked the mountain lake, where waterfalls poured over sheer cliffs before disappearing into dense evergreen forests. Unlike the formal dining halls, this terrace was filled with young heirs, scholars, military cadets, and apprentices sharing meals beneath striped canvas awnings.
Aveline hesitated at the entrance.
Oliver noticed immediately.
"You came."
"I said I would."
He grinned.
"I'm learning that when you say something..."
"...you actually mean it."
She frowned slightly.
"Don't most people?"
Oliver and Nora exchanged an amused glance.
"You'd be surprised."
"Over here!"
Nora waved from a round table overloo
