The private dining room exuded warmth and elegance, its grand table laden with delicacies. Anya and Axel sat across from their hosts, the tension palpable but veiled by the clinking of glasses and polite conversation. The evening had been surprisingly pleasant, with Anya taking note of Maya’s efforts to make her feel at ease, while Axel and Tay exchanged more measured words, each man evaluating the other with quiet intensity.
As the meal concluded, Axel leaned back in his chair, his piercing gaze locking onto Tay. His tone was casual but firm.
“Prince Tay,” he began, “if Anya and I decide to accept your offer, how exactly would we come and go from this place? It’s not exactly...accessible.”
Tay placed his goblet down with a soft clink, meeting Axel’s gaze with equal directness. “You’re
