FLASHBACK
Blood streaked his armor—some his own, most belonging to the countless others who had fallen.
Kaden's steps faltered as he approached the grand hall, his sword dragging against the marble floor.
The doors swung open with a groan, and the sight of his mother, the Queen, brought a momentary relief to his mind. She stood by the tall window, bathed in the golden light of the dying sun. Her silhouette was regal yet there was an unmistakable sorrow etched into the lines of her face.
"Mother," Kaden rasped, his voice tired from shouting commands on the battlefield. His legs trembled as he stepped forward, the exhaustion of the day threatening to topple him.
His mother turned slowly, her sapphire gown catching the light and shimmering like the ocean at dusk. Her piercing blue eyes softened as they fell upon him, but the shadow of worry never left her gaze.