Chapter 518 - Two Kings.

Time didn't pass hastily, but it didn't drag either. Inside that castle, the hours had a different weight—they weren't marked by sun or shadows, but by preparation. Breakfast was served with almost ritualistic precision, dishes impeccably arranged, rich and balanced flavors, everything carefully thought out to please… but also to observe. Exelia noticed this immediately. Each approaching servant, each calculated movement, each glance that avoided direct contact carried more than simple service. It was gathering. Information. Reaction. Kael, on the other hand, treated everything with his usual calm indifference. He ate enough, without haste, without unnecessary comments, as if he were anywhere other than the heart of a kingdom that had already begun to measure his presence with increasing caution.