LORD NIKO'S POV
I sat in the office of the castle as my fingers drummed absentmindedly on the carved armrest of my chair, a habit that betrayed my restlessness. The news I'd been waiting for from Iona came.
The heavy oak door creaked open, and in strode Enforce guard Jasper, his face grim and set in an expression of the utmost seriousness. His breath came in visible puffs, the chill of the early morning still clinging to him. As he approached, his leather boots made muted thuds against the cold floor.
Greetings your majesty" Jasper began, his voice steady but betraying an undercurrent of fatigue. He bowed deeply, though his gaze remained locked onto mine. The tension in the room was palpable, a stark contrast to the usual serenity of my chamber.
"What news do you bring?" I asked, my voice low and edged with impatience.
