The banners of Rattay loomed high above the cobbled streets, the golden stag of Lord Berrick displayed proudly for all to see. Yet, as the Silver Company rode through the gates, it was not the splendor of the capital that weighed on Dikun Silver's mind. It was the unseen judgment that awaited him.
The city bustled with life, merchants calling out their wares and commoners whispering behind cupped hands. News of the Silver Company's growing reputation had spread far beyond Brynstead. Some spoke of Dikun as a liberator, a knight of the people. Others, however, saw him as a dangerous force — a man who commanded loyalty not just with words, but with steel.
The council of nobles would not ignore such power.
"They're watching us," Gareth murmured, riding just behind Dikun. Though still clad in his squire's simple tunic, he bore himself with the pride of a warrior who had earned his place.
"Let them watch," Dikun replied, his voice steady. "A man with nothing to hide has no reason to fear the eyes of the court."
Yet even as he spoke the words, the looming shadow of the Black Sun lingered in his thoughts.
---
The Lord of Rattay
The grand hall of Rattay Keep was as imposing as the man who ruled it. Lord Berrick, a figure of wealth and authority, sat atop his throne, draped in fine furs and polished steel. His silver hair gleamed under the sunlight that streamed through stained glass windows, though the sharpness of his gaze betrayed no warmth.
The chamber was filled with nobles, their expressions ranging from curiosity to disdain. Whispers flitted through the air, rumors already poisoning the atmosphere.
"Sir Dikun Silver," Lord Berrick's voice rang out, commanding the room's attention. "You stand before this court, not as a common mercenary, but as the lord of Brynstead. A title earned not through birth, but through blood and steel."
Dikun stepped forward, bowing with practiced ease. "I serve the realm, my lord. Brynstead stands because the Silver Company stood with it."
A murmur ran through the nobles, some nodding in reluctant approval, others sneering.
"And yet," Lord Berrick continued, his tone unreadable, "there are whispers. Tales of unchecked power. Of a company that answers to no lord but its own captain."
Dikun met his gaze without flinching. "The Silver Company serves those who cannot protect themselves. If that is power, then it is a burden I accept without regret."
Lord Berrick's eyes narrowed. "And what of the Black Sun? The banners of death that stain our borders?"
"They are no mere raiders," Dikun replied, his voice firm. "They are organized, disciplined. Someone commands them. And I intend to find out who."
The court fell silent. Lord Berrick studied Dikun for a long moment, then nodded.
"You speak boldly, Sir Dikun. But bold words mean little without proof." He gestured to a servant, who quickly presented a sealed letter. "Reports have reached us of further raids to the south. If you seek to prove your worth, then I will grant you this task."
Dikun accepted the letter without hesitation.
"Destroy the Black Sun," Lord Berrick declared. "Root them out and bring me the name of their master. Do this, and the court will remember who stands for the realm."
---
A Silent Threat
Later that evening, as the Silver Company made camp outside the city walls, the weight of the court's demands pressed heavily on Dikun's mind.
Elira approached, her keen eyes glinting beneath the torchlight. "The nobles fear you," she said simply.
"Good," Dikun replied, though there was no satisfaction in his voice. "Fear keeps them cautious. But it also makes them dangerous."
Elira nodded. "And the Black Sun? If they are truly more than mere bandits, then this will not be a simple hunt."
"No," Dikun agreed. "But we will not stand idle while they burn our lands."
As the flames crackled and the night deepened, Gareth approached, his expression uncertain.
"Sir," he began, "if the Black Sun is as powerful as they say, what if Lord Berrick is sending us to die?"
Dikun placed a hand on Gareth's shoulder, the weight of command evident in his gaze. "Then we will face death as we always have — together."
For the Silver Company, there was no greater loyalty.
---
The Road Ahead
With the dawn came renewed purpose. The company set forth, their banners flying proudly as they rode southward. The path was uncertain, but Dikun knew one thing with absolute certainty.
The Black Sun had risen.
But before its shadow could consume the land, the Silver King would rise to meet it.
---
Next Chapter: Into the Ashen Veil
The Silver Company tracks the movements of the Black Sun.
A deadly ambush forces Gareth to prove himself as Dikun's squire.
A traitor's hand is revealed, threatening the stability of the company.