The morning light filtered through the windows of my study as I paced back and forth, the map fragment clutched in my hand. Sleep had eluded me since my discovery of Uncle Everett's hidden route through the Mistwall Mountains. The decision before me weighed heavily—whether to pursue this expedition into the unknown "Veiled Lands" or leave the mysteries buried where they belonged.
"Your Grace?" Theodore's voice interrupted my thoughts as he knocked on the door frame. "A royal messenger has arrived bearing urgent news from King Theron."
I quickly folded the map fragment and tucked it into my inner pocket. "Show him in immediately."
The messenger who entered wore the gold and crimson livery of the Valerius royal house, his expression grim beneath his plumed hat. He bowed deeply before extending a sealed letter bearing the king's personal insignia.
"His Royal Majesty requests your presence at the palace with all possible haste, Duke Thorne. The matter cannot wait."
