Adrian leaned against the cold marble sink in the bath chamber, the cool water cascading over his face. He closed his eyes, allowing the stream to cleanse the signs of the intense night that had consumed him.

The memories stayed with me—Lilith's lustful control and Abyss's obsessive loyalty came back in quick glimpses. However, this was not the moment for indulgence.

Straightening, he exhaled deeply and grabbed the towel nearby, dragging it across his damp skin. The council awaited, and Zarpha's fate hung in the balance.

Whatever personal distractions he had, they would have to be shoved aside. He needed the kingdom safe so therefore, the kingdom needed him too, and so did Alannah.

****************

When Adrian walked into the council chamber, the atmosphere was filled with tension. The room, dominated by a long, polished table, was filled with nobles, their voices raised in heated debate.

The light from the stained-glass windows created bright patterns on the floor, standing out against the gloomy atmosphere.

"...But we cannot trust her to lead in this time of war!" a sharp voice cut through the din. Lord Drakos, a heavyset man with a red-veined face, slammed his fist on the table. "Queen Alannah is mourning her husband! She's vulnerable, and vulnerability is a luxury we cannot afford."

"We cannot afford chaos either," Lady Calira retorted, her calm tone slicing through the noise like a blade. She was among the younger nobles, clearly showing her sharp wit and strong loyalty to the Queen. "Queen Alannah has ruled Zarpha in all but name for years. Her leadership is what has kept this kingdom stable."

Some people expressed their agreement, while others quietly disagreed.

Adrian's gaze swept across the room, noting the factions forming. Lord Faolan stood silently near the Queen's chair, observing the chaos with a steely calm.

Alannah sat at the head of the table, her black mourning gown contrasting sharply with the white marble throne. Though her posture was regal, her eyes betrayed her weariness. She glanced at Adrian as he entered, relief flickering briefly across her face.

Adrian stepped forward, his presence commanding immediate attention. The arguments subsided into a low murmur before fading into silence.

"Adrian," Alannah said, her voice steady despite the tension. "Thank you for joining us."

Adrian inclined his head respectfully. "Your Majesty. Lords and Ladies of Zarpha." His tone was calm, yet firm, as he addressed the council. "I've heard enough to know we're wasting valuable time. The Shadow Court isn't debating our leadership—they're preparing to strike. Every moment spent bickering is a moment they gain an advantage."

Lord Drakos scowled. "And what would you suggest, Lord Adrian? That we blindly accept Queen Alannah's rule without question?"

"I suggest we recognize the reality of the situation," Adrian replied evenly. He turned to face the room, his gaze sweeping over the nobles. "Queen Alannah has already been ruling this kingdom. King Varos was a figurehead in many ways—an important one, yes, but Alannah managed the day-to-day governance, the diplomacy, the strategy. She knows this kingdom better than anyone here."

A ripple of murmurs passed through the room, but Adrian pressed on.

"This is not the time for change or uncertainty," he continued. "Continuity is our greatest strength. Alannah has proven her competence time and again. What we need now is to rally behind her and focus on preparing for the Shadow Court."

"Continuity?" a voice sneered. Lord Drakos again. "What about perception? Other kingdoms will see this as a sign of weakness—a Queen without her King, ruling in a time of war. They'll think Zarpha is ripe for the taking."

"Then we make them think otherwise," Adrian countered sharply. "We fortify our defenses, strengthen our alliances, and show the world that Zarpha isn't just standing—it's thriving."

"And how do you propose we do that?" another noble asked in a skeptical tone.

Adrian turned to Alannah as he continued. "By supporting our Queen. By giving her the resources and authority she needs to lead effectively. And by setting aside our egos to work together for the survival of this kingdom."

Lord Faolan, who had been silent until now, stepped forward. "Lord Adrian speaks sense," he said calmly. "Queen Alannah's leadership has brought stability to Zarpha. Changing course now would be reckless. We need unity, not division."

Several nobles nodded in agreement.

Adrian seized the moment. "The Shadow Court is watching us. Every sign of weakness, every crack in our foundation—they'll exploit it. We can't afford to fight among ourselves when the real battle is looming."

Alannah straightened in her seat, her shoulders square as she addressed the room. "I understand your concerns," she said steadily. "And I don't take them lightly. But as your Queen, my first duty is to this kingdom. I will do whatever it takes to protect Zarpha—whether it's rallying our forces, forging alliances, or leading from the front."

Her words lingered, like a challenge and a promise. The room fell silent.

After a tense moment, Lord Drakos sighed heavily, leaning back in his chair. "Very well," he said gruffly. "The Queen shall lead—for now. But if the Shadow Court breaches our defenses, it will be on her head."

Adrian's jaw tightened, but he said nothing. The room gradually erupted into a mix of grudging acceptance and quiet discussions about preparations.

Alannah met Adrian's gaze, a faint smile of gratitude curving her lips. He inclined his head slightly, acknowledging her unspoken thanks.

As the meeting concluded, Adrian lingered in the chamber, his mind already racing with plans for the kingdom's defense. He caught Lord Faolan's eye, and the older man approached him with a nod.

"You handled that well," Faolan said. "Drakos is a stubborn fool, but even he couldn't deny your logic."

Adrian allowed himself a small smile. "Thank you, Lord Faolan. Your support made a difference."

Faolan clapped him on the shoulder. "The Queen is lucky to have you by her side. Don't let us down, Adrian."

"I won't," Adrian promised.

As Faolan left, Adrian turned to find Alannah waiting by the door. Her expression was a mixture of relief and determination.

"Thanks, Adrian," she said softly. "I really appreciate your support."

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