The gates of Rattay loomed in the distance, the banners of Lord Berrick fluttering defiantly against the gray sky. Dikun Silver led the Silver Company through the outer roads, their armor dulled by dust and their faces hardened from the recent battles. The echoes of the Black Sun's attack still lingered, but their resolve remained unbroken.
Gareth rode at Dikun's side, his posture stiff. Though he had returned from his mission alive, the weight of his decisions clung to him. The young squire had led men into battle. He had watched them die. And now, he bore the responsibility of that burden.
"You did well," Dikun said firmly, breaking the silence.
"I lost three men," Gareth replied, his voice low.
"And you saved seven," Dikun countered. "You completed the mission, struck a blow against the Black Sun, and lived to return. That is the reality of leadership. You will carry their names, Gareth. But do not let them drown you."
The squire nodded, though the pain remained. Dikun understood. He had worn that same expression once — the hollow ache of loss. But Gareth would grow stronger.
"Rattay's nobles will see us differently now," Dikun continued. "We're not just soldiers. We're a force. And that frightens them."
"Let them fear us," Gareth said, a flicker of resolve returning to his voice.
Dikun's lips curved into a faint smile. "Indeed."
---
The Court of Rattay
The grand hall of Rattay was a display of wealth and power. Marble pillars lined the chamber, and golden chandeliers bathed the room in flickering light. Lords and ladies gathered in clusters, their silk robes brushing against the polished floor as they whispered of politics and schemes.
At the head of the hall stood Lord Berrick, his stern gaze fixed upon Dikun as the Silver Company approached. Though the lord's expression remained impassive, Dikun did not miss the flicker of unease in his eyes.
"Sir Dikun Silver," Berrick's voice rang out, commanding the attention of the court. "You return from the ashes of battle once more. Yet the Black Sun still roams free."
"Their supplies are gone. Their forces weakened," Dikun replied evenly. "We strike not for pride, but to end their terror."
Murmurs swept through the chamber. Some nodded in approval. Others, particularly the wealthier nobles, exchanged wary glances. Dikun's rise unsettled them — a man of no noble blood, commanding the loyalty of soldiers and commoners alike.
"And yet your actions provoke further retaliation," one of the lords scoffed. "How long until their blades are at our own gates?"
"Then let them come," Dikun's voice was firm. "I will not stand idle while innocent lives are taken."
Silence fell. Lord Berrick studied him, his expression unreadable. But before the tension could thicken further, a new presence entered the hall.
Selina Valtoris.
She moved with the grace of a queen, her emerald gown flowing like water. Raven-black hair cascaded over her shoulders, and eyes as sharp as a dagger swept over the court. Whispers followed her, though few dared to meet her gaze.
"Lady Valtoris," Lord Berrick greeted, his tone respectful. "Your presence graces us."
Selina inclined her head, her smile polite yet calculated. "I would not miss such a gathering. After all, the rise of the Silver Company is a tale that reaches even the most distant ears."
Dikun felt the weight of her gaze as she turned toward him. There was no hostility in her expression — only curiosity.
"Sir Dikun," she said, her voice like silk. "Your name is spoken often. They say you stand not as a mere knight, but as a commander of men. A force of justice against the darkness."
"I stand for those who cannot defend themselves," Dikun replied, his tone unwavering. "Nothing more."
Selina's lips curved slightly, though the glint in her eyes suggested amusement. "And yet that is what makes you dangerous."
The words lingered, but before Dikun could respond, Lord Berrick raised his hand. "Enough. We will speak further of the Black Sun. For now, rest. The court will watch your next move with great interest, Sir Dikun Silver."
Dikun gave a curt bow. "As you command, my lord."
But even as he turned to leave, he could feel Selina's gaze following him. A force as dangerous as any sword.
---
A Dangerous Offer
That evening, as the Silver Company settled into the barracks, a messenger arrived. A sealed letter, marked with the crest of House Valtoris.
Dikun broke the seal, his eyes scanning the elegant script.
"Sir Dikun Silver,
I would speak with you. Not as enemies, nor as strangers, but as those who understand the weight of power.
The gardens of the west wing await.
— Selina Valtoris"
Dikun's expression remained unreadable as he folded the letter. Gareth watched him closely.
"Another game," the squire muttered.
"Perhaps," Dikun replied. "Or perhaps something more."
And so, under the pale glow of the moon, Dikun Silver made his way to the west wing.
---
Next Chapter: Whispers in the Garden
Dikun meets with Selina Valtoris, navigating the dangerous game of courtly politics.
Rumors spread of betrayal within the ranks of the nobles.
Gareth learns the complexities of leadership as the Silver Company prepares for the next move.
The Black Sun's shadow looms ever closer, threatening to strike once more.
Shall I proceed with the next chapter?