After Kaela's introduction, Alaric and the others took time to visit the remaining girls, meeting each one in turn.
There was nervousness—some were fearful, others deeply quiet—but most had already accepted their fate. Submission hung in the air, not as a chain, but as a silent agreement. A surrender to something larger than themselves.
When the final introduction was done, Alaric and the girls returned to the mansion. Virellen excused herself to inform her father of the arrangement.
It was still early morning. Breakfast was prepared and waiting—courtesy of the mansion servants. Alaric dined with Aurevia, Cellione, Serineth, Virellen and Auralyne in the grand dining hall, beneath the glow of enchanted chandeliers that mimicked soft sunlight.
By the time the plates had been cleared and tea was being poured, Virellen returned. She entered the room briskly, her usual mischief replaced with rare solemnity.
"My father is ready,"
She said.
