As soon as Layla saw the guard, her first instinct was to return to the castle and wait for the guard to arrive in front of her.
The soft knock at the mansion's front door echoed through the quiet morning, cutting through the stillness. A young guard stationed at the entrance exchanged a wary glance with his partner before cautiously opening the heavy oak door.
A regal-looking man in a deep blue cloak trimmed with silver embroidery stood on the front steps. His posture was stiff, and the royal crest gleamed proudly on the polished badge pinned to his chest. His sharp eyes assessed the guards with practiced indifference.
"I am here on official business. I bear an invitation from His Majesty's court."
The messenger declared, his voice steady and authoritative. He also sounded arrogant, almost as if he had no need to be polite in front of anyone else.
The guards straightened, nodding respectfully.
"Who is the recipient?"
