The sun had just begun its slow ascent, painting the sky above Sanguival in golden hues, casting long, regal shadows across the land as King Adeodatus arrived at Blood Castle.
In his chamber, Prince Valerian sat by his desk, absorbed in quiet reading, when a firm knock broke the stillness. He glanced up, slightly startled.
"Yes, one second… Who is it?"
"It is I—your father, Valerian," came the deep, familiar voice.
At once, the book slipped shut. Valerian leapt from his seat and hurried to the door. The moment it opened, the sight of the King's face caused his own to light up like morning breaking over the hills.
"Father!" he breathed, and they embraced—an embrace not hurried, but full of meaning, strong and warm, like old promises kept.
"Come in, Your Majesty," Valerian said with re
