The week moved faster than Jake expected.
He spent the days preparing—not just for the feast but for the inevitable confrontation with Kunther. Training sessions with the shadow serpents, testing new combinations of his abilities, and running scenarios in his mind about how to handle a Class II Talent Rank 2 opponent without killing him but making the point stick.
On the third day, he sent word to Lady Matilda.
The message was simple: he would accept her proposal, but on his terms and his timeline. She would have his protection starting immediately, not contingent on marriage but guaranteed by his word as Raikarndel heir. The formal arrangement could be discussed after he'd dealt with Kunther.
Her relief had been palpable even through the written response.
The feast arrived before Kunther made his move.
