Two days later, Prince Theodore sat in his air-conditioned office at Gaborone, Votswana, shielded from the sweltering heat outside. The city, usually bustling with activity, seemed to slow under the oppressive sun, but inside the cool confines of his office, Theodore remained focused on the papers spread out before him. His brow furrowed slightly as he skimmed through reports and diplomatic briefs, none of which did much to ease his growing concerns about Valoria.
A soft knock interrupted his thoughts. Without looking up, Theodore waved a hand. "Enter."
The door opened, and one of his aides, a young man with a crisp uniform and neatly combed hair, stepped inside. He moved with purpose, but there was something in his posture that caught Theodore's attention. The aide approached the desk, holding a printed letter.
"Your Royal Highness," the aide began, his tone respectful, "this just arrived. It's from Lord Reginald. He's returned from his meeting with Valoria."