*Rhys*

The morning air was crisp as we left the opulence of the royal Egoren palace behind. The sky stretched above us while my boots crunched on the path. I could feel the weight of my father's instructions pressing upon my shoulders like a yoke.

"Keep a sharp eye," Malcolm murmured to his men, his voice a low rumble in the quiet of the breaking day. His gaze lingered on me, doubtful and edged with disdain.

"Are you sure about this, Rhys?" he asked, turning to ...