A Prince’s Test

Kaelith's fingers lingered on Seraphine's wrist, his grip tightening ever so slightly. "Secrets are dangerous things, Seraphine," he murmured. "Do you truly wish to carry them?"

She held his gaze. "I already do."

A small, humorless smile curved his lips. "Then prove it."

Before she could respond, he stepped back, moving toward a small chest by his desk. He unlocked it with a key from his belt, retrieving a single folded parchment.

When he turned back to her, his expression was unreadable. "Take this to the western outpost. Deliver it personally to Captain Rhylen."

Seraphine frowned. "What is it?"

Kaelith tilted his head slightly. "A message. If you are loyal to me, you will not ask questions. You will do as I command."

The weight of his words settled between them.

Seraphine's fingers curled into her skirts. This was a test—one that could either cement his trust in her or expose the growing rift between them.

Slowly, she reached for the parchment. "And if I refuse?"

Kaelith's eyes darkened. "Then I will know where your loyalty truly lies."

To be continued…