Chapter 225
The entourage of the Princess arrived at the outskirts of Nevan, a windswept trading town nestled beneath sharp cliff walls and flanked by golden plains.
The air held a biting chill, and the sky was draped in soft grey clouds, diffusing the light over the cobbled paths and old stone ruins scattered nearby—a place that held more history than life now.
A ruined watchtower stood half-collapsed beside the main road, its broken arches creating a natural canopy overhead. It was here that the Princess halted the group. The old stone floor beneath their boots was etched with time, and the wind carried a quiet whisper of bygone battles and secrets.
Martina stepped forward with a commanding air, her silver armor subtly veiled under a heavy cloak of navy and gold. Her greenish eyes scanned the gathered group—knights, attendants, guards, and scouts, all with upright backs and lowered heads.
"This is where we part ways," she said, her voice sharp and clear as a blade cutting through fog. "From this point onward, the main mission will proceed under disguise."
A murmur swept through the crowd, but it was quickly stifled.
"All servants and personnel not on the core mission will head to the eastern hideout—Siaska Base, 60 kilometers from here," she continued. "Wait for further orders there and maintain full blackout. You will be contacted only through the secure line."
One of the knights hesitated before saluting. "Understood, Your Highness!"
She turned her back to them, her cloak swirling like a shadow as she gave the final command. "Move swiftly and draw no attention. Our enemies are not blind."
Kael stood silently near the rear, unease gripping his chest. The thought of separating from Lyria weighed heavily—especially with the egg. The magical core inside it resonated with something deep within him, a thread of instinct he couldn't ignore.
As the soldiers began mounting their horses and wagons prepared to depart, Kael stepped forward.
He lowered his head and spoke with respectful weight. "Your Highness, may I speak?"