First message
The carriage arrived at dusk, flying the banners of a kingdom Ambrose meant to bind with a wedding ring
Orion waited on the castle steps, armor polished, expression carved from stone. He had guarded generals and kings. A bride should have been simple.
Then the door opened, and she stepped down
She did not look at the banners or the gathered court. She looked at him, steady and unafraid, as if she could see the cracks beneath his discipline. Orion felt it like an arrow finding its mark
From a balcony above, Aeric smiled behind his fan. He had already noticed what his brother would spend weeks denying
Your Highness Orion bowed low I am Lord Marshal Orion. By the king's command, I am your shield until the wedding
His voice was even. His pulse was not
Inside, the king waited. Overhead, the first stars burned awake
She stepped closer, and Orion wondered if duty could survive a single glance