“Sir Beth of the Embersworn, come join us!”
She practically floated up to the stage, beaming.
The introductions followed—each character stepping forward as Ben introduced them and narrated their role. Rowan as King Aldric drew massive applause. Viv as the Knight Commander got whistles and cheers. Charlie as Princess Evelaine prompted some good-natured catcalls that made her blush. Duke as Caiden got even louder cheers than Rowan.
He pretended to be surprised, then bowed low and shot Rowan a grin that saidHear that? They love me.
Everyone took their seats at the elaborately decorated game table—a beautiful piece painted to look like weathered stone. The cards were laid out, the tokens distributed as Ben explained the rules.
“Let the Chronicles begin!” Ben declared.
The game moved smoothly. Ben narrated the scenarios, the players bantered as they made their strategic plays, and the crowd laughed at every joke and reacted to every dramaticmoment. Charlie was surprisingly good—calculating, strategic, playing Evelaine with quiet authority. Viv was aggressive, pushing for bold moves. Rowan played the steady, wise Aldric. Duke was... Duke. Charming, witty, making the crowd laugh the hardest with his commentary.
And then, twenty minutes in, it happened.
Rowan made a play that won him the game—Aldric formed an alliance with Viv’s Sir Mariel. The crowd loved it, cheering the partnership and the victory.
Duke leaned back in his chair, grinning. “Ah, forming intimate partnerships, are we? Funny how art imitates life, eh Rowan?”
Rowan's smile tightened slightly. “It was a good strategic move.”
“Oh, absolutely.” Duke's voice was warm, friendly. Nothing but good humor. “Though I have to say, stealing the director's heart is the best way to secure your role on the show.” He laughed, like it was all a joke, like he was just ribbing a friend.
Viv’s face went pale.
The crowd's reaction was confused—some laughter, some gasps.
“Wait, what?” someone called out.
Duke looked genuinely surprised. “Oh. Oh no.” He put a hand to his mouth. “I assumed this was your public declaration!”
Viv's knuckles were white where she gripped her cards.
Duke turned to the crowd, apologetic. “My apologies, folks. I didn't mean to spill any beans. But yes—” He gestured between Rowan and Viv. “These two lovely people have been an item for months now. And honestly? I'm thrilled for them both. Congratulations!”
The theater erupted. Some cheers, but mostly gasps and shocked exclamations. Ben could see phones coming out, people already typing furiously.
On the monitor showing the livestream chat, comments exploded:
WHAT?
ROWAN AND VIVIENNE CROSS ARE TOGETHER???
Rowan found his voice. “Duke?—”
“No, no, don't be embarrassed!” Duke was all warmth and support. “Love is beautiful. I'm happy for you both. Truly.” He looked directly into the camera. “Though I suppose this explains some creative decisions, doesn't it? Maybe if I’d tried that strategy myself, Caiden would have a future in season three.”
The implication hung in the air like poison.
Ben saw Viv's expression crumble, just for a moment, before she forced it back into place.
The crowd was buzzing, distracted. More phones came out. More comments popped up on the live feed.
IS THIS WHY SHE'S KILLING CAIDEN???
WAIT! SHE’S WHAT!?!?
#ThroneOfEmbarrassment
