Morning light flooded the Silver River Hub.
Arthur stood near the dispatch yard, reviewing convoy schedules. Wagons rolled through the gates in steady rhythm. Crates moved from warehouse to wagon in minutes. The system hummed.
Then a commotion erupted near the eastern entrance.
A horse staggered through the gate. Its flanks were streaked with sweat, foam dripping from its mouth. The rider slumped in the saddle, barely conscious.
Workers rushed to catch him as he fell.
Arthur walked over.
The courier's hands were raw from gripping reins. His face was gray with exhaustion. Someone pressed water to his lips.
He gasped out words: "Message... from the capital... urgent..."
A merchant pushed forward. "That's my dispatch! I've been waiting four days!"
Another merchant grabbed the courier's satchel. "Mine too. Timber prices changed last week. I already sold at the old rate."
Arthur watched the scene quietly.
---
Zack appeared beside him.
