Chapter 14 ~ Ambitions

• "Thirty years ago"
• Kael began, his voice low and steady as they sat near the flickering light of the training hall, “the kingdom was very different from what you see now. The ruler was King Karion IV, a man of old blood and old laws, but weary with age and the weight of his crown. It was a time when the Council of Thorns held real power—seven men and women, each guarding their own interests and secrets.” Lucas listened closely, sensing the weight behind Kael’s words.
• “Tharion was then just one of the council members, far from the king he would become. He was ambitious, yes, but not yet the ruthless monarch you’ve come to know. Back then, he had allies, two of his closest friends were Maelrik, the spymaster, and Lareth, the king’s trusted advisor. Together, they formed a quiet but dangerous triangle, moving in the shadows, plotting.”