"Brother!"
Daemon turned at the familiar voice. Gabriel approached, smiling, with a woman beside him—tall, graceful, with silver hair and piercing blue eyes. She held herself like nobility, and she was. Vivian Starling, the daughter of Duke Starling and Gabriel's betrothed.
The soldiers straightened at once. Whispers swept through the ranks.
"The crown prince..."
"Is that Lady Vivian? She's even more beautiful in person."
Captain Veyne gave a crisp salute, and the rest of the soldiers followed, showing respect to their future king and queen. Gabriel returned their gestures with a warm smile, waving lightly before setting his gaze on Daemon.
Daemon stepped out from the training group, wooden sword still in hand, his expression unreadable. He was flanked by Veyne and Nyxtriel, who kept a careful eye on the new arrivals.
