Cole hadn’t expected the kingdom of Velar to look this ghastly and bare. The once-vibrant fields were now withered and dry, the air heavy with the scent of decay and desperation. He thought the king wasn’t kidding when he said his kingdom was suffering. How pathetic of him, to have the audacity to beg for help when his kingdom had caused their very downfall in the past.

  As Cole stepped out of the carriage, he felt the eyes of the Velar courtiers upon him. Their fear was evident, a silent recognition of the power he possessed. The soldiers stood at attention, their faces grim and wary. Beside him, Kael was as composed as ever, his expression unreadable, like an impenetrable fortress. They were there for one purpose—to secure their foothold in this wretched kingdom and exact their revenge.

  The palace itself, though grand, showed signs of neglect. Cracks painted the marble floors, and the opulent tapestries hung limp and faded. Cole’s gaze swept over the surroundings, taking in every detail. Each flaw, each sign of decay, was a testament to the kingdom's downfall and decline.

  Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.

  "Quite the welcoming committee," Kael said, his voice low and full of irony.

  Cole smirked, his eyes glinting with cold amusement. "Indeed. It seems they know their place."

  As they moved through the halls, servants scurried out of their way, heads bowed in deference. The tension in the air was almost tangible, a heavy weight that pressed down on everyone present. Cole could hear the whispered conversations, the hushed fears of the Velar court. It was a symphony of despair, and he reveled in it.

  Approaching the grand dining hall, the heavy wooden doors were opened by two guards, revealing a room that contrasted starkly with the rest of the palace. The table was filled with an extravagant feast, an attempt to mask the kingdom's poor and embarrassing state. The Velar king stood at the head of the table, a forced smile on his face as he gestured for them to enter.

  "Welcome, king and princes of Umbral," the king spoke, his voice ridden with an anxious tone. "We are honored by your presence."

  Cole inclined his head, his expression neutral. "The honor is ours, King Velaraus."