Shadows on the Horizon

The court's murmurs had barely settled before the heavy doors of the great hall swung open. A messenger, cloaked in dust and sweat, stumbled forward, his breathing labored.

"Your Majesty," he gasped, dropping to one knee before King Aldric. "A fleet of warships has been spotted off the eastern coast—banners of House Veltros among them."

The court erupted into a frenzy of voices. Lords shouted over one another, some calling for immediate action, others for caution.

Kaelith's mind sharpened. This wasn't just another border raid. This was a provocation.

The king's expression remained unreadable. "How many ships?"

"At least twenty, Your Majesty. More gathering by the hour."

The eastern coast—Veynor's weakest naval defense. If House Veltros attacked, they would leave villages burning in their wake.

Seraphine, standing silent beside Kaelith, tilted her head slightly. Watching. Listening. Calculating.

Kaelith stole a glance at her. Did she already know this was coming? Had she sent word ahead to her true allies?

His father turned to him. "You will handle this, Kaelith. Take a fleet to meet them before they reach our shores."

It was not a request.

Kaelith gave a sharp nod. "I will leave at first light."

Seraphine finally spoke, her voice smooth and measured. "If I may, Your Majesty," she addressed the king. "Attacking their fleet head-on may not be the wisest choice. House Veltros would not risk war unless they had something to gain."

Kaelith's gaze snapped to her. "And what do you suggest, my lady?"

Her emerald eyes met his, unflinching. "Find out what they truly want before you draw your sword."

A strategic mind. A dangerous one.

Kaelith didn't know if she was giving him sound counsel—or subtly guiding him toward a mistake.

Either way, war was coming. And with it, the first test of his unwanted marriage.