"I do not care."
Valerian's voice did not rise. It did not need to.
The simplicity of those four words carried more weight than any thunderous command. It was cold, final and absolute.
"I do not care for whatever purpose brought her here," he continued, his tone hardening with each word, each syllable laced with restrained fury, "nor do I concern myself with the expectations of any noble house that believes it can dictate the structure of my personal life."
A silence fell over the chamber—thick and suffocating. Not the kind born from confusion. But the kind born from understanding.
His gaze locked onto Tiberin's, sharp and unyielding.
"My word is final," he said, slower this time, ensuring that not a single man in that room could pretend to misunderstand him. "And I have no further intention of discussing what happens within my harem with this council. That is not your concern. It will never be your concern."
Tiberin held his gaze for a brief moment.
