Only a day remained before the auction, and the town near Kyle's developing village was already beginning to thrum with the weight of important guests.
Nobles, merchants, and adventurers filled the inns and markets, their whispers and expectations weaving through the air like smoke.
Kyle stood on the path just outside the village, his back straight and expression unreadable.
While the village was still under construction, the auction would be held within it—out of necessity more than pride.
Yet, Kyle had ensured the area chosen was presentable: a newly finished hall with reinforced walls, luxurious seating, and wards for security.
Among the crowd of arrivals, Kyle knew only two parties truly required his attention: those sent by his fiancée, the Grand Duchess Amanda, and those from his father's side, led by none other than High Inquisitor Charles.
As fate—or perhaps cunning—would have it, both carriages arrived at the same time.
Kyle did not hesitate.
