A GAME OF POWER

 The sun had barely risen when Lord Ashford's banners were spotted on the horizon.

From the watchtower, Luca observed the approaching party, a procession of riders draped in noble colors, their polished armor glinting in the morning light. They were no ragtag band of mercenaries or opportunists. These were men of the court, well-trained and well-prepared and they had come to test Xander's rule.

Xander stood at the gates of Evermere, watching as the noble's company approached.

Ashford had not come alone. He rode at the head of at least twenty men, all on fine-bred horses, their capes bearing the insignia of his house. Behind them followed a covered carriage, no doubt carrying Ashford's advisors, or perhaps something less obvious.

Beside Xander, Luca muttered, "He wants to make a spectacle of his power."

Xander smirked. "Then let him. He'll soon learn that Evermere does not bow."

As Ashford reached the gates, he reined in his horse and surveyed the town. His gaze lingered on the newly rebuilt walls, the armed guards lining the perimeter, and the people who had gathered to watch the exchange.

Then, finally, his eyes met Xander's.

"Lord Xander," he said smoothly, dismounting. "Or should I say… warlord?"

A few of his men chuckled, but Xander's expression remained unreadable.

"I welcome you to Evermere, Lord Ashford," he said, his voice steady. "You requested an audience. I granted it."

Ashford's lips curled slightly. "How generous of you."

Xander gestured toward the keep. "Shall we?"

Without waiting for a response, he turned and led the way inside. He would not give Ashford the satisfaction of dictating the pace.

The great hall was dimly lit by torches, the scent of burning wood and aged stone filling the space.

Xander took his seat at the long wooden table, Ella beside him, with Luca and several trusted men standing behind. Across from him, Ashford settled into his chair, his posture relaxed but his eyes sharp.

"For centuries," Ashford began, "Evermere was part of a greater noble alliance. Your father understood the importance of alliances, of structure." He leaned forward. "Do you?"

Xander tilted his head. "I understand that alliances only work when built on mutual respect."

Ashford smirked. "Then allow me to be direct. Evermere sits on valuable land, fertile fields, trade routes. You have the strength to hold it now, but strength fades. Without noble backing, Evermere will struggle to maintain its position."

Xander narrowed his eyes. This was the real purpose of the meeting. Ashford wanted Evermere under his control.

Ella spoke up, her voice measured. "And what would Lord Ashford require in exchange for his…backing?"

Ashford's gaze flickered to her. "Loyalty. An oath of fealty. And, of course, a presence in your council."

A thinly veiled demand for control.

Xander exhaled slowly. He had anticipated this, but hearing it aloud stirred a deep frustration within him.

"You expect me to hand over Evermere?"

Ashford chuckled. "No, Lord Xander. I expect you to be wise."

Silence stretched between them.

Then, finally, Xander leaned forward, his voice like steel.

"Evermere belongs to its people. Not to the crown, and not to men who seek to rule from a distance." His eyes locked onto Ashford's. "If you believe I need your protection, you are mistaken."

Ashford's smile didn't falter, but something dark flickered behind his gaze.

"I see." He stood, adjusting his cloak. "Then I shall take my leave. But know this, Evermere's independence is a dangerous thing. The world is not kind to those who refuse to choose a side."

He turned toward the door, but before leaving, he added in a low voice, "I hope, for your sake, that you made the right choice."

Xander watched him go, jaw clenched.

As soon as the doors shut behind Ashford, Luca muttered, "That went well."

Ella's fingers brushed Xander's arm. "He won't let this go."

Xander nodded, his mind already racing.

Ashford wasn't finished. This was only his opening move.

And the real battle for Evermere was just beginning.