Inside were coins, letters, and a pearl necklace neatly placed. But under a silk cloth lay an old piece of paper. The edges were burned.
He picked it up. The wax seal was black. The mark wasn't from Vargorath.
He opened it, and read it's content.
To Her Majesty, Queen Maravelle,
It is time to repay your debt. The years of silence are over.
Follow the instructions I have sent through my messenger. Do not delay, and do not test my patience. You know what will happen if you refuse.
— V
For a long moment, he didn't move. His hand shook. Then his jaw tightened.
"Mother," he whispered. "What have you done?"
He made his way to the Sovereign's chamber and knocked once.
The old man looked up from the scrolls spread before him.
Kael stopped in front of the desk. "Grandfather, we need to talk."
Marcellus leaned back in his chair. "I can see that. What's happened? Where's the King?"
"Thornak's occupied," Kael said. "He's dealing with... something."
