King Heimdal closed his eyes for a long, measured moment, as if weighing the future of a kingdom on the tip of his tongue. When he spoke, his voice was low and deliberate, carrying the gravity of a man who knew the cost of every word.
"Summon General Hemer Frigo," he said. "I only pray it is not already too late. And quietly—send a rider to Kasmeri. He still commands loyalty among the border clans… and controls more than a few bandit groups. His hatred for Zura burns hot, and that fire may yet be useful. If we can win his allegiance, there may still be hope for Northem."
He opened his eyes again, pale and hard as steel. "And one more thing."
Reuben straightened instinctively. "Yes, Father?"
"You will remove your uncle Duval from your inner circle. The court must see where your loyalty truly lie—if they lie with the crown at all."
