The bells began before sunset.
Slow. Hollow. Relentless.
They rang from the High Tower of Avaros, rolling across marble rooftops and stone bridges like waves striking a cliff.
By the time darkness settled over the capital, no one needed confirmation.
Queen Myrielle was dying.
Inside the royal chamber, incense burned thick enough to sting the eyes. Silk curtains had been drawn to keep out the cold, but the room felt frozen regardless.
King Vaelrion sat beside her bed, still in armor.
He had not removed it in three days.
Not the crown.
Not the sword at his hip.
Not even the gauntlets.
As if steel could fight sickness.
Myrielle's breathing was shallow — each inhale weaker than the last.
"You should rest, Your Majesty," the physician said softly.
Vaelrion did not turn his head.
"Leave."
The room emptied without another word.
He removed one gauntlet and took her hand.
It felt fragile.
Like holding the wing of a dying bird.
"You are stronger than this," he murmured.
A faint smile touched her lips.
"Strength does not bargain with time."
His jaw tightened.
The plague had begun in the lower districts. He had ordered infected buildings burned.
Entire streets turned to ash.
Necessary.
He always chose what was necessary.
"My king…" she whispered.
His eyes softened instantly.
"Yes."
"No more fire."
The words hit harder than any blade.
"You think me cruel," he said quietly.
"I think you are afraid."
He didn't answer.
Because she was right.
Not afraid of rebellion.
Not afraid of enemies.
Afraid of losing control.
Her fingers twitched.
Then stilled.
The bells did not change rhythm.
But the world did.
Vaelrion sat there long after her breathing stopped.
And then—
The air shifted.
The candle flames bent inward.
Shadows along the walls stretched unnaturally.
A voice touched his thoughts like smoke slipping under a door.
If you would defy death… climb where fire sleeps.
His grief did not question it.
Grief never questions hope.
He stood.
And for the first time in his life—
The King chose something not for the kingdom.
But for himself.