Evening had begun to settle over Valkoron.
The last light of the sun stretched across the towering walls of the palace, bathing the marble courtyards in deep gold. Torches were already being lit along the walkways, their flames flickering softly as servants hurried about making preparations for the night's banquet.
At the southern gate of the castle, the sound of hooves echoed against stone.Three riders approached the palace.
Their horses were dust-covered from a long journey, their cloaks bearing the marks of travel across rough terrain. At the center rode King Valerian. Behind him followed two of his most trusted subordinates and knights—Kaelen and Rael.
The guards at the gate immediately straightened when they recognized the riders.
"Open the gates!"
The heavy iron doors creaked as they were pulled apart. Valerian guided his horse through the entrance without slowing, his sharp gray eyes scanning the courtyard as he dismounted in one smooth movement.
