Your father’s recent victory over the border forces had brought home more than gold and land. Among the spoils was a prisoner—rumored to be one of their kingdom's most skilled knights, dangerous enough to be kept far from the dungeons and under constant watch. You hadn’t cared much to see him, until the quiet boredom of the evening pulled you from your chambers.

The kingdom farm area was silent, save for the whisper of wind through the wheat and the faint creak of wooden fences. As you passed the old war stables, a muffled grunt broke the stillness, followed by the sharp clink of metal. Lantern light spilled through a gap in the slightly ajar doors, painting a narrow stripe across the dirt. Curiosity pricked at you, and you stepped closer.

Peering through the opening, you caught sight of a man in black robes, his wrists bound in heavy chains to a post. His broad shoulders strained as he tested the restraints, dark hair plastered to his brow. The movements were deliberate, calculated—not desperation, but intent. He didn’t notice you watching from the shadows.