s of House Alden, the noble lineage of Elias. His visit was not one of mere diplomacy but of grave concern-whis

m like shadows. Nobles and servants alike bowed, but the air was heavy with unease

r visit were under b

ckered toward the dimly lit chamber where Elias

sts, holding him in place like a caged animal. The boy was trembling, his skin pale, sweat

ere ch

his youth. His breathing was ragged, his chest rising and falling in uneven gasps. Then ca

awakening

uld be cut with a dagger. Then, in a single

trous. His body convulsed as pain racked through his veins, his b

took a

him!" some

is eyes was inhuman. His father stumbled back in horror. The Ki

w his fate-his own blood spille

and Elias was forced to the ground. Chains rattled as he was pi

st. He had come to see the boy-the heir to a noble h

he saw

he next ruler, the child born under the Gods' blessing. But no

his face, gasped between r

led with agony. A plea. A

ches. The King clenched his fists, his sorrow hidden behind

spoken with the we

t to time, hidden in lands unknown. If such a

did not look back. But the gri

he day he

ized Elias' fate wa