Bab 51: Games of Power

The cold metal token from the Black Vow lay in Valen's palm, the etched words "One cannot trust shadows" glinting faintly in the morning light. He studied it, turning the phrase over in his mind. An invitation or a threat? Either way, he would confront it head-on.

The thought sharpened his resolve. He would meet them and twist their intentions to suit his own. If they thought they could control him, they would soon understand their error.

As he tucked the token away, a sharp knock at the door disrupted his thoughts. He opened it to find an unexpected visitor: Lian Draxius, one of Kael's closest friends. Lian stood in the hallway, his face carefully composed, though his eyes betrayed a glint of anxiety.

"Lian," Valen greeted, his voice neutral, though he watched the young noble closely. "What brings you here?"

Lian shifted slightly, casting a glance down the hall before speaking. "I need to speak with you, Aetheris. Privately. It's… about the Black Vow."