The court hall in the capital was quieter than usual.
King Alden sat atop the dark-stone dais, light blue eyes unreadable as his ministers filed in one by one, heads bowed in reverence or fear. The carved wolves at his back cast long shadows in the amber light of the high windows, flickering like old ghosts.
"Let the court session begin," the herald announced.
Duke Malloran, Minister of External Affairs, stepped forward first. His deep green robes brushed the polished floor as he bowed. "Your Majesty. Reports from the eastern border suggest increased movement near Velmora. Small incursions. Tested weaknesses."
"And your recommendation?" Alden's voice was clipped.
Malloran hesitated only a breath. "Send a message. Not one of peace, but strength. Reinforce the border. Perhaps even summon the southern lords. They have more to lose than us."
Whispers rustled behind him—some approving, others uncertain.