Chapter 36: Negotiation

The sun was high in the sky when the Elstrand entourage approached Kael's estate.

Lenora sat in the carriage, her hands clenched in her lap as the wheels rolled over the cobbled road leading to the heart of Kael's domain.

Through the window, she could see the barony's fortifications, sturdy walls, disciplined guards at every post, and workers.

Everything about Kael's territory radiated strength and order, a stark contrast to her family's strained and chaotic rule.

Her heart pounded as the carriage slowed in front of the main gate.

Her small escort barely a dozen men was dwarfed by the imposing sight of Kael's guards standing in perfect formation.

She could feel their eyes on her, their expressions unreadable.

This was enemy territory, and she was painfully aware of her vulnerability.

"Lady Lenora," the steward traveling with her said softly. "We're here."