"How passionately you defend her, Duke of Ravenmoor," the king said, his voice dripping with mockery. "One might almost believe you have confused pity with love. Tell me, are you truly willing to risk your kingdom's reputation for a woman who was sold into your bed?"
Chuckles rippled through some nobles while others shifted uncomfortably in their seats, looking uneasy at the escalating tension.
Austin looked into the king's eyes without flinching.
"You are insulting her because you fear what acknowledging her truly means," Austin replied calmly.
Whispers erupted the room. This time, a few nobles nodded in agreement while others frowned angrily. The king's smiled didn't waver but his eyes had grown even more colder now.
Instead of answering to Austin, King Lucien turned his gaze back to Alina.
"Very well," he said. "You have come a very long way, girl. Speak then. Let the court of Arcasedia hear what you believe you are owed."
