Chapter 7: Silent Storms

The tower felt colder tonight, the winds howling outside as though they were mourning the calm before a coming storm. Valen stood by the large, arched window of his chambers, staring out into the vast expanse of his territory. The moon hung heavy in the sky, casting its pale light over the land, illuminating the distant hills and forests. He could see the faint glimmer of torchlight from the distant town below—his people, the ones who unknowingly looked to him for protection.

Protection, he thought bitterly. The very idea seemed laughable. They thought he was strong, powerful, a leader. But in truth, he was just a puppet in a game—except now, the strings were invisible, and the rules had changed.

The messenger's words haunted him. Alliances are temporary. Enemies can last forever.

Valen knew Gareth wasn't offering him protection out of goodwill. The nobleman was positioning himself, preparing for something much larger. And now Valen was forced to navigate this treacherous landscape. Every move, every decision could mean his survival—or his destruction.

A soft knock at the door broke his thoughts.

"Enter," Valen called, his voice steady as always, though his mind remained troubled.

Mira stepped into the room, her eyes glowing faintly in the dim light. She was one of the more dangerous disciples—cunning, quick to act, and with ambitions that mirrored his own. Her long, dark hair framed her sharp features, and her lips curled into a small smile as she approached.

"My Lord," she began, bowing slightly. "I bring news."

Valen nodded, waiting for her to continue. His face remained unreadable, thanks to the Nobility skill that kept his emotions locked away.

"The scouts you sent to monitor the Serathin forces have returned," Mira said, her voice soft but with a hint of urgency. "They report significant movement along the border. It appears they are preparing for an incursion—possibly within the week."

Valen's fingers twitched slightly, the only sign of his inner tension. The Serathin Empire was moving faster than he anticipated. War was on the horizon, and he wasn't sure if his forces were ready.

"Are there any details on their numbers or strategy?" Valen asked, his voice cold and detached.

Mira stepped closer, her eyes studying him carefully. "Their numbers are large, as expected. But what's more troubling is that they've enlisted several high-ranking mages. The kind capable of summoning storms and commanding the elements. If they decide to attack, it will not be with conventional forces alone."

Valen remained silent for a moment, his mind racing. Magic had always been a wild card in the game—something that could shift the balance of power in an instant. But this was no game. If the Serathin Empire attacked with both soldiers and magic, his province would be in serious danger.

"I will prepare the defenses," Valen said finally. "We cannot afford to be caught off guard. Have our warlocks reinforce the city walls and increase the patrols along the borders."

Mira nodded but didn't leave right away. Instead, she took another step closer, her green eyes glinting with something unreadable. "There's more, my Lord."

Valen raised an eyebrow, though his face remained expressionless. "Go on."

"There are rumors—rumors that some of your disciples are... less than loyal." Mira's voice dropped to a whisper, her gaze flickering toward the shadows in the room. "It seems Lucian has been having private meetings with certain individuals outside the tower. Those who might have a vested interest in seeing you... weakened."

Valen's eyes narrowed ever so slightly. So, the betrayals were already beginning. He had expected this, of course—Lucian had always been ambitious, and in the game, he had been one of the first to turn against Valen. But hearing it now, in this world, sent a chill down his spine.

"I see," Valen said, his voice icy. "Thank you for bringing this to my attention."

Mira hesitated, her eyes lingering on him for a moment longer. "You should be careful, my Lord. Even those closest to you may not be what they seem."

Valen watched as she left the room, her words hanging in the air like a warning bell.