The King’s Weakness
The kingdom celebrated their return.
But Isabella knew better.
She had learned that peace was often the most dangerous moment.
When enemies attacked, everyone knew where to look.
When swords were drawn, everyone knew who stood against them.
But after a battle...
After a victory...
That was when hidden wounds opened.
That was when old enemies moved quietly.
That was when people became careless.
And Isabella had learned one important lesson.
The greatest threats did not always come from outside.
Sometimes...
They came from the shadows people carried inside themselves.
The journey back to the capital was quieter than the journey away.
The warriors who had traveled with them had witnessed too much.
The first Gate.
The ancient darkness.
The Second Gate.
