The announcement came before the arrival.
Not loudly.
Not with ceremony.
But with the kind of quiet efficiency that marked movements of importance within Athax.
Another figure from House Valmird had entered the city.
They did not arrive alone.
Their banners were not numerous, but they did not need to be. The sigil of Valmird carried enough weight on its own—dark and unmistakable, borne by riders who moved with the discipline of those long accustomed to command.
Beside them—
The colors of House Aro.
Silver and deep blue, woven into cloaks and standards that spoke less of war and more of wealth, of trade, of influence built through stability rather than conquest.
Two houses.
Bound.
Distinct.
And arriving together.
The inner courtyard of the palace had been prepared.
Not with celebration.
But with precision.
