Chapter 212. Reluctant Allies

“So, what are you doing here, King Arthur?” Meredith asked, her gaze fixed on him. Her brows were creased, and her eyes held more contempt than usual. The tea house was empty—every maid had been dismissed to give them privacy. The meals she had prepared for the lords still lay across the table, filling the room with their rich aroma.

Arthur met her gaze, refusing to be distracted by the delicious spread below.

“Valtoria is preparing to launch an attack on Eldridge using artifacts you provided,” he said evenly. “Artifacts far stronger than anything we possess. I’ve come to ask for the same—artifacts powerful enough to defeat those who would turn this realm into a living nightmare for its people.”

Meredith stared at him for a moment before smiling faintly. She lowered her gaze, exhaled softly, and tucked a loose strand of hair behind her left ear.

“Umm, are you going to eat?” she asked, gesturing to the table. “I’d really appreciate it if all this food didn’t g