Mason's POV
The early morning stillness was shattered by the sound of running footsteps and urgent shouts. I jolted awake, my hand instinctively reaching for the sword beside my bed. Before I could fully process what was happening, the door to my chambers burst open, revealing a breathless guard.
"Your Majesty," he gasped, his face pale with fear. "We're under attack. A coup... they've taken the eastern wing of the palace."
My mind raced as I leapt from the bed, already reaching for my armor. "How many?" I demanded, strapping on my breastplate with practiced efficiency.
"At least a hundred, maybe more," the guard replied, his voice shaking. "They caught us off guard. We've lost contact with several key positions."
Cursing under my breath, I grabbed my sword and strode towards the door
