A Kingdom That Endured
Across from him, a younger officer finally spoke, careful, respectful. "We received rations, my Lord. Soldiers loyal to Lady Nova came to us regularly. They delivered food, water, and medicine. They asked nothing in return, only that we endure. Their respect for you runs deep."
His hands rested on his knees, knuckles pale from restraint. He didn't dare lift his gaze for long. Each word seemed measured, as if he feared saying too much might shatter the fragile calm in the room. Around them, armor creaked. A few men swallowed, remembering nights that smelled of damp stone and stale air — and the quiet footsteps that meant relief had arrived again.
