Down in the palace courtyard, the morning routine was already in full swing. Servants hurried past carrying crates and supplies, guards organized their patrol formations, and the crisp air hummed with activity. Kael stood waiting near the palace entrance, adjusting his armor, as the main doors swung open.
Valex strode out onto the stone steps, the morning sun washing over his bare chest. Kael stepped forward to meet him. "Good morning, Your Highness."
"I need my black horse ready for a hunt, Kael," Valex commanded as they walked toward the courtyard center.
Kael raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Your black horse? But why do you need a horse—and that one in particular?"
Valex paused, looking toward the grand staircase. "I shall be taking the queen on a hunt. I do not want her walking all the way there and back. Besides, the black horse is older and far more calm."
Kael bowed his head. "Understood, Your Highness."
