The morning sun crept over the imperial capital, casting a warm glow across the sprawling city. Pyris Obsidian stood before the floor-to-ceiling windows of his office in Obsidian Tower, staring out at the shimmering skyline. Today was no ordinary day—today, the Valyrian Imperial Family was hosting an elaborate birthday party for the youngest princess, Seraphina Valyrian.
It was more than a simple celebration, though; Pyris knew a trap when he saw one.
The invitation had arrived two weeks earlier, wrapped in gold, bearing the imperial seal of the Dragon Empire. The Valyrians were subtle but not subtle enough. They were playing a dangerous game of politics, and Seraphina was at the center of their ploy.
He knew the Valyrians weren't aiming to kill him outright—that would be too crude, too obvious. No, they had something more elaborate in mind, and he was walking straight into it.
But Pyris was no stranger to manipulation.
