The servants in Cassandra's wing moved with quiet efficiency, bowing as Kael passed. Unlike the main family quarters, where servants avoided eye contact and whispered behind hands, Cassandra's staff operated with military precision.
Kael navigated the corridors until he reached the door to Cassandra's personal office. Before he could knock, it opened.
Margaret stood in the doorway, her silver hair pulled back in a severe bun.
"Good to see you're well, my lord."
Kael smiled. "Margaret. Still as stunning and terrifying as ever."
The corner of her mouth twitched. "The Lady is expecting you. She mentioned you would come crawling back eventually."
"I'm not crawling."
"Of course not, my lord."
She stepped aside, and Kael entered the office.
Cassandra sat behind a massive desk covered in holographic displays. Her black hair was in its usual severe braid, her dark violet military uniform pristine, her cold eyes flicking up from her work.
