Chapter 12: Shadows in the Court

The council meeting had ended, but the weight of its decisions still lingered in Leon's mind. As he followed his father and siblings out of the chamber, he caught sight of several nobles whispering among themselves, their expressions a mix of curiosity and discontent.

"Duke Everhart leading the investigation..." one murmured.

"Of course the king trusts him," another said, voice laced with sarcasm. "House Everhart has always been favored."

Leon frowned but remained silent. His father had warned him about the court's political games, and now he was witnessing them firsthand. Even within the king's closest circle, allies could turn into rivals at a moment's notice.

As they walked through the palace corridors, Sophia leaned toward him. "Did you notice? Some nobles weren't pleased with the king's decision."

Leon nodded. "I did. But what can they do? The king gave his orders."

Rachel, walking beside them with a smug grin, chuckled. "That doesn't mean they'll accept it quietly. Some of them will try to interfere."

Alistair came to a stop and turned to them, his gaze sharp. "That is precisely why we must tread carefully." He glanced around, ensuring they were alone. "House Everhart is powerful, but we have enemies. Some will use this mission as an opportunity to weaken us."

Lady Eleanor, who had remained quiet throughout the meeting, finally spoke. "Which is why we must stay united. Leon, you will be under close scrutiny now. Even small missteps could be used against you."

Leon inhaled deeply. He had trained for this—his whole life had been preparation for stepping into his role as the heir of House Everhart. But the reality of court politics was far more complex than he had imagined.

They arrived at their chambers, where a group of their personal guards awaited them. Alistair dismissed them with a nod before stepping inside. The family gathered around a large table, and a detailed map of the Western Territories was laid out before them.

Alistair placed a marker on one of the border towns. "This is where we will begin. Reports indicate that this town, Valtorin, was the first to fall. If there are survivors, they may have valuable information."

Sophia traced a finger along the map. "If we take the northern route, we can reach it faster. But it's also the most exposed path. If enemies are watching, they might ambush us."

Rachel cracked her knuckles. "Let them try."

Lady Eleanor sighed. "We must be cautious. Brute strength alone won't win this battle."

Leon studied the map, considering their options. "What about the southern route? It's longer, but we could move with fewer eyes on us."

Alistair gave a small nod of approval. "A wise suggestion. It will add time to our journey, but stealth may be our best advantage."

Leon felt a surge of pride at his father's acknowledgment.

"Then it's decided," Alistair continued. "We leave in three days. Gather what you need. This will not be a short mission."

Rachel smirked. "Finally, something exciting."

Sophia shot her a look. "This isn't just an adventure, Rachel. It's war."

Rachel's smirk faded slightly, but she didn't argue.

As the family dispersed, Leon lingered for a moment, staring at the map. This was real. He wasn't just a noble's son attending banquets and learning etiquette anymore. He was stepping onto a battlefield.

A soft voice interrupted his thoughts. "You'll do fine, you know."

He turned to see his mother standing beside him.

"You remind me of your father when he was your age," Eleanor said, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Strong, but thoughtful. This journey will test you, but I have no doubt you will rise to meet it."

Leon exhaled slowly and nodded. "I won't let our family down."

She smiled. "I know you won't."

But deep in his heart, he wondered—was he truly ready for what lay ahead.