Lord of Deception

The grand banquet continued, but beneath the surface of flowing wine and polite conversation, the real war had begun.

Kael knew that every move he made tonight would determine his future. Allies, enemies, and hidden hands—each watching, waiting for a moment of weakness.

And Kael Ardyn did not intend to show any.

A Silent Warning

As he left the Emperor's presence, Kael felt a faint presence behind him.

A whisper of movement. A breath against his ear.

Then, a note slipped into his hand.

Kael glanced around, but whoever had placed it was already gone.

Unfolding the delicate parchment, he read:

"The shadows watch. Leave the banquet early if you value your life."

A trap? A test? Or a genuine warning?

Kael had no intention of fleeing like a coward. But he would not be reckless either.

Queen Isolde's Invitation

Before he could decide his next move, Queen Isolde approached once more, a predatory smile playing on her lips.

"You intrigue me, Duke Kael," she murmured, sipping her wine. "Perhaps I should take a closer look."

Kael smirked. "Are you offering an alliance, Your Majesty?"

She leaned closer, her voice a soft whisper. "I'm offering a… conversation. One that would be best had in private."

Was it curiosity? A test? Or something more?

Kael knew one thing—she was dangerous. But in this game, danger was power.

He nodded. "Then let's talk."

She smirked and turned, leading him away from the main hall.

And that was when the first dagger was thrown.

The Assassins Move

Kael barely had time to react before a black-cloaked figure lunged from the shadows, blade aimed at his throat.

With unnatural reflexes, Kael twisted aside, grabbing a silver platter from a nearby servant and slamming it into the assassin's face.

A second figure descended from the ceiling, twin daggers flashing.

Before Kael could react, Queen Isolde moved.

With terrifying speed, she unsheathed a hidden blade from her dress and slashed across the assassin's throat in one swift motion.

Blood sprayed across the marble floor as the attacker collapsed.

Kael exhaled, stepping back. "Efficient."

She flicked the blood from her blade. "You're not the only one who plays dangerous games, Duke Kael."

A scream rang out in the banquet hall. More assassins had emerged.

The banquet had turned into a battlefield.

The Emperor's Gambit

Kael turned toward the imperial throne.

The Emperor was unmoving, watching the chaos unfold with a cold smile.

He had expected this. Planned it.

A test. A purge.

Kael's mind raced. If he survived this, he would prove himself. But if he failed…

A third assassin charged at him.

This time, Kael didn't dodge. He grabbed the attacker's wrist, twisted it violently, and drove his knee into their stomach. The assassin gasped before Kael's dagger found their heart.

One by one, the assassins fell—cut down by nobles, guards, and unexpected warriors.

And when the last body hit the ground, the Emperor finally stood.

"Interesting," he mused.

The entire room turned silent.

The Emperor's gaze fell on Kael. A knowing, amused gaze.

"Duke Kael," he said. "You handled yourself well."

Kael forced a smirk. "It seems you throw dangerous parties, Your Majesty."

The Emperor chuckled. "Indeed. And it seems you have survived." He gestured toward the chaos. "Take this as your official welcome into the Empire's true games."

A servant stepped forward, carrying something in a velvet box.

Kael took it and opened the lid.

Inside was a golden signet ring, carved with the imperial crest.

The Emperor's voice was final.

"Congratulations, Duke Kael. You are now one of my chosen."

The banquet was over. The real war had begun.

To be continued...