The grand marble halls of Blackwood Castle were as silent as a grave when I entered. Every step of my boots echoed authority. Two soldiers saluted sharply, opening the golden doors to the King's War Chamber.
Inside, Chris Blackwood sat at the head of the massive obsidian table. His presence alone filled the room like a storm—calm, yet every eye was drawn to him. Amara was beside him, her gaze sharp and unreadable, flipping through scrolls of reports.
I placed the transport maps on the table and bowed slightly.
"My King, these are the updated routes from Minister 118. All secured. Supply lines will remain uninterrupted for any upcoming campaign."
Chris leaned back, scanning me with that calculating look only he had. "Good. You never disappoint, Soren."
But my mind wasn't at rest. I cleared my throat.
"My King… if I may."
His brows lifted. "Speak."
I hesitated only a moment. "The Minister's son—he spoke before me today. He begged to join the B.A.M. I refused to answer in front of his father, but…" I looked directly into Chris's eyes, "…the boy's spirit was unshaken. He carries a hunger for loyalty and steel, not politics."
Amara tilted her head, interested. "Another youth daring to throw himself into war. Many have tried. Few last."
Chris smirked faintly, drumming his fingers on the table.
"And what do you think, Soren? Should he be sharpened into a sword… or left in his father's shadow?"
I straightened.
"My King, I serve you only. But I have seen recruits break under their own pride. This boy… did not tremble before me. If molded correctly, he could become more than his father ever was."
The chamber grew quiet. Chris leaned forward, his eyes glowing with that dangerous curiosity.
"Interesting. A minister's son who wants the blood and fire of the B.A.M.…"
He chuckled low.
"Soren, test him. If he survives your trials, he is yours. If he fails, discard him like the others."
I bowed deeply.
"As you command, my King."
When I rose, Amara's eyes caught mine for a brief second. I could not tell if she approved or if she was already calculating the boy's fate.
Either way, the die was cast.
The boy would have his chance.
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