Carlos stood outside the heavy iron gates of Prince Liam's private residence. He was shivering slightly, though the evening was not cold. He wore a simple, dark cloak, trying to blend into the twilight, but he felt exposed. He had been waiting for this summon for a week, ever since he had pledged his loyalty on his knees. Since then, there had been nothing but silence from the Prince, a silence that felt like a tightening noose.
The gate creaked open. A guard in black armor nodded, gesturing for him to enter.
Carlos walked through the courtyard, his boots echoing loudly on the stone. He felt small. He felt like a trespasser in a world of power he didn't understand. He was led into the main hall, a vast, cavernous room lit by flickering torches that cast dancing shadows on the tapestries depicting ancient battles.
