Chapter 116: A Reunion in the Field
"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.
Gabriel's schedule had been packed for days—meetings, ceremonies, preparations for his coronation. It wasn't surprising that he hadn't visited. Still, seeing him here, out on the training field, caught Daemon slightly off guard.
"You've been busy," Daemon said.
Gabriel laughed lightly. "That's the nature of being next in line to the throne. But I couldn't keep making excuses. I had to come see my brother."
He turned to the soldiers. "You're all training hard. It's good to see. My father would be proud."
Vivian gave a polite smile, bowing slightly to the group. "It's a pleasure to meet you all. The future of the kingdom rests in strong hands."