The west wing of Rattay Keep was a place of subtle beauty. The stone paths wound through carefully tended gardens, their fragrant blooms illuminated by silver moonlight. Vines twisted along the marble archways, and the soft trickle of a fountain echoed through the night air.
Dikun Silver strode forward, the weight of his sword ever present at his side. Despite the elegance surrounding him, he remained cautious. This was no ordinary meeting — not when it involved Selina Valtoris.
The daughter of House Valtoris was known not only for her beauty but for her cunning. Her father, Lord Valtoris, commanded vast trade networks and held sway over countless merchants. While others fought with swords, the Valtoris family wielded influence — and few could match their skill in courtly manipulation.
And yet, there she stood.
Beneath a trellis of white blossoms, Selina awaited him. Her emerald gown shimmered in the moonlight, the fabric clinging gracefully to her figure. But it was her eyes that held Dikun's attention — sharp, intelligent, and filled with unspoken purpose.
"Sir Dikun Silver," she greeted, her voice like a soft melody. "I was uncertain whether you would come."
"I was uncertain why you summoned me," Dikun replied, his tone measured.
Selina smiled, though there was no warmth in it. "Because the court is a den of wolves, and a lone knight who rises so swiftly draws their gaze. You may defeat the Black Sun on the battlefield, but here? Steel is not the weapon that will save you."
"And you offer counsel in exchange for what?"
"Only conversation, for now," she answered, tilting her head. "Curiosity is not so great a price, is it?"
Dikun said nothing, but the slightest nod invited her to continue.
---
A Merchant's Wisdom
They walked slowly along the garden path, the flowers brushing against the hem of Selina's gown. The tension between them remained, though neither moved with hostility.
"You lead your men well," Selina remarked. "The common folk speak of the Silver Company as protectors. But to the lords of Rattay? They see something far more dangerous."
"And what do they see?"
"A man who holds loyalty without a noble title. A knight who commands respect through action, not blood." Her voice softened, though the weight of her words did not. "That frightens them."
Dikun's jaw tightened. "I seek no throne. Only peace."
"Peace is rarely won without ambition," she countered. "The Black Sun is merely one enemy. The others wear silk instead of armor."
Her gaze flickered with knowing amusement. "But I suspect you already understand that."
Dikun did not respond immediately. He knew the truth in her words. Lord Berrick's court was not unlike a battlefield — veiled threats, alliances made and broken, all in pursuit of power. The nobles would never accept him fully, no matter how many battles he won.
"And you?" Dikun asked, turning the question back on her. "What does Lady Valtoris seek in all this?"
Selina's smile lingered. "A world where strength is not measured solely by blood. My father built his empire not with a sword, but with gold. Trade flows where borders fail. Influence bends even the will of kings."
"And you wield that influence."
"Where necessary." She stepped closer, the faint scent of jasmine clinging to her. "But I also know when to forge alliances. That is why I sought you out, Sir Dikun."
"An alliance?"
"Perhaps," Selina said, her voice lowering. "But alliances are built on trust. And trust is earned."
The words hung between them. Dikun could sense the weight of her offer — unspoken, but undeniable. To align with House Valtoris would grant him resources, influence, and the protection of one of the wealthiest families in the realm.
But it would come at a cost.
"I will consider your words," Dikun said at last.
Selina's smile deepened, though her true thoughts remained concealed. "That is all I ask, Sir Dikun."
---
A Squire's Questions
Returning to the barracks, Dikun found Gareth waiting near the entrance. The squire's face was etched with concern.
"You were gone a while," Gareth remarked.
"Lady Valtoris wished to speak," Dikun answered simply.
"And did she offer you a dagger or a crown?" Gareth's tone was dry, but the underlying tension was clear.
"Neither. Not yet."
Gareth frowned, his youthful uncertainty evident. "The court is a dangerous place. More dangerous than the battlefield, even."
"That's why I need you to watch and learn," Dikun said, placing a firm hand on his shoulder. "A knight must see the world for what it is — not only with his sword, but with his mind."
The squire nodded, though the unease did not leave him.
"And Gareth," Dikun continued, his voice lowering. "Keep an ear to the ground. Rumors often carry more truth than the words of nobles."
"Aye, Sir."
The night air remained heavy as Dikun entered the barracks. The court of Rattay had grown restless. And now, with Selina Valtoris's shadow lingering at the edge of every decision, the storm was only beginning.
---
Next Chapter: A Merchant's Game
Selina's offer continues to weigh on Dikun's mind.
Gareth uncovers whispers of a conspiracy among the nobles.
The Black Sun prepares their next move, striking closer to Brynstead.
Loyalties are tested as Dikun must decide who he can truly trust.
Shall I proceed with the next chapter?