Page 72 of Lord of the Lone Wolf
“My commander informed me Maseo saved five of our soldiers from an ambush,” Jaega continued. “At considerable risk to himself.”
“His actions proved our judgment sound,” Kitsuki acknowledged, his voice measured. “He has earned his place among our warriors.”
Jaega chose his next words with care, sensing the weight his nephew carried. “It cannot be easy for him to fight against his own father, regardless of their estrangement. His commitment to our cause speaks to his character. I find it hard to believe they are related when they are such opposites.”
Kitsuki’s gaze remained distant. “The difference is striking.”
“His devotion to you and Auslin is clear in every action he takes. Some bonds form quickly yet run deeper than time itself. Even across centuries of life, such connections remain rare and precious.”
“What are you implying, Uncle?”
“That recognizing such a bond need not bring shame,” Jaega answered. “He is a fine young man who has lived without receiving the kindness and affection his gentle heart deserves. To acknowledge what exists between the three of you honors the gift given to you.”
Kitsuki’s shoulders tensed. “Auslin and I have agreed to wait until after the war ends. The timing is not appropriate for such considerations.”
Jaega nodded with approval. “Your restraint shows wisdom. War demands focus, and Maseo needs stability, not theconfusion of navigating new emotions while facing his father in battle.”
“Maseo has enough burdens without adding our complications to them.”
Jaega inclined his head, pleased by his nephew’s maturity. “Your patience will serve you well. When the time comes to explore what lies between you, it will be without the shadow of war hanging over your hearts.”
Kitsuki’s expression softened. “Your understanding means more than I can express, Uncle.”
“Family supports one another through all of life’s complexities. Love in any form is not something to fear but to cherish when it comes.”
“I appreciate your counsel, as always.”
Jaega rose from his seat. “I will summon Lieutenant Norkon. The sooner he departs, the more intelligence he can gather before dawn.”
Kitsuki agreed. “I will await his report.”
Jaega departed the royal tent. The forest smells mingled with those of the military camp, pine and earth alongside steel and leather. They were far enough from the battlefield that the scent of blood wasn’t carried on the wind. Dragon fires burned at intervals along the packed-earth streets, providing light without smoke or the risk of spreading to the canvas structures.
Jaega made his way to his own tent, no less luxurious than Kitsuki’s but decorated in the warm oranges and golds that reflected his own magic rather than the silvers and blues of the king. His personal guard snapped to attention as he approached.
“Summon Lieutenant Norkon to my tent,” Jaega instructed. “The matter is urgent.”
“Yes, General.” The guard bowed, then departed to carry out the order.
Inside, the orange fire in his brazier cast a warm glow over the rich furnishings. He had settled at his desk when Lieutenant Rylan Norkon arrived, who entered with a formal bow. “You summoned me, General?”
“I have a mission of utmost importance,” Jaega replied without preamble. “It requires your unique talents and absolute discretion.”
Norkon straightened, his dark eyes alert. “I stand ready.”
“What I tell you does not leave this tent. We have encountered evidence of a necromancer in Nasume’s forces,” Jaega stated. “The king requires intelligence about what awaits us in Norello.”
Norkon’s posture tensed. “You need me to conduct reconnaissance tonight?”
“Yes. Approach as close to the city as you can manage. Observe any unusual activity, such as rituals, strange constructions, or unnatural gatherings. The information is vital, but not at the cost of your life or discovery. If Nasume has a necromancer in his service, they may possess means to detect intrusion that go beyond conventional methods.”
Norkon nodded, his posture straightening with the gravity of his assignment. “Understood. I will fly there, then report back as quickly as possible. With your permission, I will depart immediately.”
“Granted. May the Powers watch over your path.”
As Norkon left, Jaega felt the weight of command settle more heavily upon his shoulders. The discovery of necromancy changed everything. What had begun as a war over territory and power now threatened to become something far more insidious. The conflict could corrupt the very boundary between life and death.
His personal valet, Grisden, stepped inside, carrying a tray with a meal and fresh water. The dragon shifter had served Jaega since the general’s youth, his loyalty unwavering through countless campaigns.
