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Only time would reveal whether Stefan's presence brought reconciliation or renewed threats. Alexei resolved to watch him very closely, the safety of his new family paramount.

In the tense days after Stefan's return, Alexei kept his brother under close watch, wary of deceit but hoping for reconciliation.

Stefan seemed humbler and willing to make amends, yet doubts still plagued Alexei.

He conceded to let Stefan stay in an isolated wing of the castle, neither fully welcomed nor imprisoned.

They had terse but civil conversations, carefully avoiding past grievances. Alexei searched for any sign of deception, but Stefan played the role of penitent well.

The court buzzed with speculation about Stefan’s true motives. Katrina urged Alexei to take care, eyes worried whenever Stefan came near the prince. Alexei shared her caution - too much harm had come before from misplaced trust.

Late one night Alexei was woken urgently with reports of a suspected assassin caught stealing through the upper