EMPEROR Kallixto and Duke Noxton were outside the lodge, resting after an hour of rigorous sword practice. The clang of steel had finally faded, leaving only the whisper of the forest wind and the distant chirping of morning birds. Kallixto dropped onto a massive boulder, his sword clattering onto the grass as he exhaled heavily. Sweat dampened his temples, and he closed his eyes briefly, savoring the moment of reprieve.
Unexpectedly, Duke Noxton approached and extended a gourd flask toward him. Kallixto raised a brow at the gesture but accepted it without hesitation, uncorking the lid to take a long swallow of water.
“It brought to my attention,” Duke Noxton began, his tone low and edged with bitterness, “that His Majesty had given interest to my estranged wife.”
Kallixto paused mid-dr
