> "Sit down, Nujah. You don't have to be afraid in this room."

Nujah still had his hands clasped tightly on his knees. Hesitantly, he moved to the nearest chair and sat. His legs were trembling.

But Seren's voice… was unlike anyone else's.

Not commanding like his mother's,

Not suffocating like his father's.

It was calm.

Like silence that made you feel safe.

Seren returned to her desk. She picked up a quill, pulled out a fresh piece of parchment, and began to write as she spoke:

> "Your sister, Lyra… You said she's being prepared for a forced marriage. Do you have any proof?"

Nujah lowered his head.

> "I only saw the dress. She's six… and Zirelda wasn't even trying to hide it."

"And…" he continued, his voice dropping lower,

"You're hearing this for the first time, but… the ruler of Calvenhold, Alvaren Deyros, is coming soon. He's the one they're preparing her for—as his bride. I heard Vareth talking about it. That's why… we don't have much time."

Seren paused briefly. Then pressed her quill down harder against the parchment.

> "That's enough. Even this alone is a violation."

A guard was called into the room. Wax and a seal were brought in. Seren took a breath and began to write aloud, each word weighed like steel:

---

📜 Official Statement to the Kingdom of Arthur

From: High Priestess Seren Valinea

Title: Spiritual Advisor of Calvenhold and Royal Guardian under King Arthur

Date: 23 SOL, 763 N.C.

To: The Royal Council of Arthur & High Court of Justice

Subject: Reports of Child Abuse and Criminal Activity Committed by the Vantess Family of Calvenhold

I hereby declare that, based on firsthand testimony and direct observation within the region of Calvenhold, the following offenses have been brought to my attention:

— A six-year-old girl being prepared for forced marriage

— Specifically, to be offered as a bride to Alvaren Deyros, the current ruler of Calvenhold

— The concealed disposal of a deceased male child (Thoren Vantess)

— Clear and repeated signs of domestic abuse, torture, and psychological manipulation

In light of these allegations, I request immediate investigation. Should these claims be validated, I call for the accused to be brought to trial under Arthurian law. Intervention and support from the Crown is urgently required.

Key witness:

> Nujah Vantess, Age 16

Based on testimony and presented evidence, it is recommended he be placed under royal protection.

In the name of sacred light Naraka and justice,

Seren Valinea

(High Priestess and Royal Spiritual Envoy)

[Royal Seal]