"The castle is ready."
Lady Bloodmoon's announcement came three weeks after my fight with Daemon. Three weeks of recovery, negotiation, and careful political maneuvering.
"Ready how? Ready for us to retake it or ready in some other way?"
"Ready for you to walk in and claim it. Daemon's remaining supporters have withdrawn. The castle staff has pledged loyalty. The military has accepted your authority. It's yours."
"Just like that? After months of fighting and struggling, we just walk in?"
"Just like that. Sometimes winning is anticlimactic. No final battle. No dramatic confrontation. Just bureaucratic acknowledgment that you've won."
It felt wrong. Too easy. Like there had to be a catch.
"What about Daemon? What happens to him?"
"That's your decision. He's your prisoner. You can execute him for treason. Exile him like was done to him before. Imprison him permanently. Whatever you think is just."
"What do you think I should do?"
