The news of Eryndor's heroic rescue of Princess Viana swept through the Imperial Palace like a storm, leaving whispers and wide-eyed courtiers in its wake.
In her opulent chambers, Lady Agnes stood frozen, her delicate hands gripping the edge of a gilded table. Her face, usually a mask of serene beauty, paled as her attendant recounted the tale—Eryndor, the legendary Elven leader, had slain a blight-spawn and carried Viana to safety atop a unicorn.
The court was alight with awe, but for Agnes, the news was a bitter poison. Her emerald eyes darkened with envy and unease. She had spent weeks weaving subtle schemes to undermine Viana's position as Rayne's fiancée, but Eryndor's act had elevated the Princess beyond her reach.
"Eryndor himself? He carried her?"
Agnes whispered, her voice trembling with suppressed emotion.
"Yes, my lady," her attendant replied cautiously. "They say his presence alone silenced the hall. Even the Emperor tread carefully."
