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Chapter 78 — The Mage's Tower

Author: J L FLETCHER
last update Last Updated: 2025-10-17 16:58:50
The King watched the courtyard below, alive with the sounds of wolves returning from the hunt—laughter laced with triumph, pawsteps pounding out restless joy, the clang of weapons surrendering to peace. Ordinary life. He ached for it, for the warmth of simple bonds and the easy certainty of their loyalties.

For him, there was nothing simple anymore.

He turned as Ronan entered, shutting the door with deliberate care. The Beta’s broad frame carried the weight of unspoken things.

“Majesty,” Ronan said. “Veronica has been discharged from the healers, yet she refuses to stay quiet. Every servant in the wing has heard her shrieking. Arnold is stoking the fires of dissent.”

The King’s jaw hardened. “Then she will shriek behind guarded doors. Veronica is confined to her chambers. Armed watch, day and night. She may have silks, food, comfort, but not freedom.”

Ronan studied him carefully. “And Arnold?”

The King’s eyes flared. “He will obey. Or he will learn what defiance costs.”

They did
J L FLETCHER

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