Morning came filtered through the broken roof of the watchtower, painting stripes of light across the dusty floor. Caspian woke to the smell of something actually cooking—not just heating up, but real cooking. Marnie had found herbs and mushrooms during her morning walk and was doing things with them that made everyone's stomach growl audibly.Tobin was already awake, bouncing on his heels near the door. "Today's the day! Deeper into the Deepwood! Monsters to fight, treasures to find, glory to earn!"Bulkan grunted from his spot by the door. It sounded like "calm down, child."Fizzlewick had his nose buried in his tome. "Fascinating! According to my research, the Deepwood's inner region has approximately 47% more dangerous creature encounters than the outer region! Also, the average temperature drops by three degrees the further in you go. Also, the trees grow closer together, which limits visibility and—""Fizz," Elara interrupted gently. "Breakfast first. Facts later."They ate quic

The walk out of the Deepwood took two days. It should have taken one, but nobody had the energy to push harder.Tobin complained about his feet for the first six hours. Then he switched to complaining about the bugs. Then the lack of good food. Then the fact that Fizzlewick wouldn't stop talking."I'm not stopping," Fizzlewick said cheerfully. "I'm providing valuable information! Did you know that the Deepwood has approximately 847 species of insects? Also, the average walking speed of a tired human is about three miles per hour. At our current pace, we'll reach Oakhaven in approximately—""Fizz," Elara said. "Please."He quieted. For about five minutes.Bulkan carried most of the supplies without being asked. He also carried Tobin's pack for a while, though Tobin denied needing help. The giant just grunted and kept walking.Marnie walked at the back, one hand on her apron pocket. The spoon was in there, still glowing faintly. She checked it every few hours. Each time, she nodded to h

The first day of travel was almost pleasant.The road from Oakhaven to Aethelgard City was well-maintained, wide enough for wagons and trade caravans. Farmers moved their goods to market. Travelers passed with nods and waves. The sun was warm, the breeze gentle, and for a few hours, Caspian almost forgot they were walking toward a war council.Tobin filled the silence with his usual enthusiasm. "I heard the capital has buildings seven stories high! Seven! Can you imagine? And street vendors on every corner selling food from all over the kingdom! And actual bathhouses with hot water!"Fizzlewick consulted his tome. "Aethelgard City was founded approximately 847 years ago by King Aldric the First. It has survived three sieges, two plagues, and one catastrophic fire that destroyed the original market district. The current population is estimated at—""Fizz," Elara interrupted. "Maybe save some facts for when we actually get there.""I have approximately 847 facts prepared! I can't just—"

The war council lasted six hours.Caspian's back hurt. His brain hurt. His everything hurt. He'd sat through marathon gaming sessions longer than this, but those had snacks and comfortable chairs. The council chamber had hard wooden benches and a strict no-eating policy that Tobin had already tested and been scolded for.The discussion was overwhelming. Guild masters argued about troop placements. Generals debated supply lines. Mages presented intelligence on rift activity. Scouts reported monster movements. Everyone had opinions. Everyone was certain they were right.The Gilded Fox sat in their assigned section, trying to look like they belonged. Tobin had stopped pretending to pay attention an hour ago and was now subtly counting the ceiling tiles. Fizzlewick was taking furious notes, occasionally muttering about factual discrepancies. Bulkan appeared to be sleeping with his eyes open—a skill Caspian desperately wished he had.Elara listened to everything, her expression focused. Sh

The Royal Palace was even more intimidating in daylight.Caspian stood with his guild at the base of a massive marble staircase, looking up at doors that could have fit their entire tavern inside. Guards lined every step, their armor polished to a blinding shine, their eyes fixed forward but somehow still watching everything.Tobin adjusted his ridiculous hat. "So. Anyone else feel like we're walking to our doom?""Every single day," Elara muttered.Fizzlewick had his tome clutched to his chest like a shield. "The Royal Palace was constructed approximately 327 years ago and has served as the seat of Aethelgard's monarchy ever since. Fun fact: the foundation stones are enchanted to repel any form of magical intrusion, which means—""Fizz," Caspian said gently. "Breathe."He breathed. Didn't help much.Marnie stood quietly at the back, one hand resting on her apron pocket. The spoon was there, humming softly. She looked calm. Then again, she always looked calm. It was both comforting an