The Arrival of the Duke’s Wife

The afternoon air carried a sense of anticipation as Kael stood at the gates of his manor, his hands clasped behind his back.

The courtyard was bustling with quiet activity as his retainers and guards lined the edges, their uniforms freshly pressed and their armor polished.

Every detail had been attended to; the manor was spotless, the banners of House Vortan fluttered proudly in the wind, and even the villagers had been instructed to present their best appearance.

Beside Kael stood Gerald despite his advanced age, the butler's sharp eyes missed nothing as he surveyed the final preparations.

He adjusted his coat and leaned in slightly.

"Everything is in place, my lord," Gerald said. "Lady Calista's arrival should proceed smoothly. The knights are ready to honor her entrance."

Kael gave a small nod, his expression thoughtful. "It needs to. This is no ordinary visit, Gerald you were right Lady Calista isn't just here to tour the barony. She's here for business and that makes her dangerous."

Gerald inclined his head. "Then it's fortunate that you do not make missteps, my lord."

Kael smirked faintly but said nothing, his sharp eyes fixed on the horizon.

A faint rumble went through the air the sound of hooves and wagon wheels on the freshly repaired road.

Kael straightened, his gaze narrowing as the first signs of Lady Calista's procession appeared over the hill.

The knights in the vanguard were impossible to miss: a column of twenty armored men on massive destriers, their polished plate reflecting the sunlight.

Each bore the silver hawk crest of Duke Avens, their lances tipped with steel and held high.

"They brought an impressive escort," Kael muttered, more to himself than anyone else.

"Standard protocol for a woman of her station," Gerald replied, stepping slightly to the side. "It's as much about appearance as it is protection."

Behind the knights rode a smaller group of retainers, their fine but practical clothing marking them as advisors, stewards, or perhaps negotiators.

They moved with purpose, their eyes scanning the surroundings with practiced vigilance.

Kael could tell at a glance that these were seasoned professionals men and women who knew how important the person sitting in the carriage was.

Then came the centerpiece of the procession: an ornate black-and-gold carriage, drawn by four pristine white horses.

The craftsmanship of the vehicle was exceptional, its sides adorned with intricate carvings of hawks in flight.

Curtains of emerald velvet shielded its occupant from view, though the occasional flicker of movement suggested that Lady Calista was well aware of her surroundings.

Trailing the carriage were two wagons, their contents hidden beneath heavy tarps.

Foot servants, dressed in clean but simple uniforms, followed on foot, their faces flushed from the effort of keeping pace.

Even in their modesty, the entourage radiated wealth and precision.

Kael's gaze lingered on the carriage as it approached. "Quite the display."

Gerald's lips curled into the faintest hint of a smile. "She's making a statement, my lord. And it's not just for you. Everyone in this barony will know she was here."

Kael's jaw tightened, but he said nothing.

As the procession entered the gates, Kael's guards snapped to attention, their spears clinking as they formed a line on either side of the cobblestone path.

The knights at the head of the procession dismounted with practiced ease, their movements precise and disciplined.

One of them a grizzled man with gray streaks in his hair approached Kael with measured steps.

The man removed his helmet, bowing slightly. "Baron Vortan. I am Sir Aldric, commander of Lady Calista's guard. I trust her accommodations have been prepared?"

Kael inclined his head. "They have. Lady Calista will find every comfort awaiting her."

Sir Aldric gave a satisfied nod and stepped back, signaling to the carriage.

A footman hurried forward, bowing deeply before opening the door.

The courtyard fell silent, save for the faint rustling of banners in the wind.

A delicate hand emerged first, adorned with rings of gold and emeralds.

Then, Lady Calista stepped out, her movements slow and deliberate, as if she were fully aware that every eye in the courtyard was on her.

Her gown of emerald green shimmered in the sunlight, its golden embroidery tracing patterns that seemed to move as she walked.

Her raven-black hair was styled into an intricate braid adorned with jewels, and her sharp gray eyes surveyed the scene with quiet authority.

Kael stepped forward, bowing low enough to show respect without appearing servile. "Lady Calista, welcome to my barony. It is an honor to host you."

Her gaze lingered on him for a moment before a faint smile curved her lips. "Baron Vortan. I've heard much about you."

Kael straightened, his tone measured. "I hope the reality lives up to the rumors."

Her smile deepened slightly, though it did not reach her eyes. "We shall see."

Gerald stepped forward, bowing deeply. "My lady, I am Gerald, steward of the Vortan household. It is my pleasure to oversee your visit. If you require anything, please do not hesitate to ask."

Lady Calista's gaze shifted to Gerald, her expression unreadable. "Thank you, steward. I trust everything is in order?"

"Of course, my lady," Gerald replied smoothly. "Your quarters have been prepared, and a feast awaits you in the great hall."

Kael gestured toward the manor. "The manor is at your disposal, my lady. My staff will ensure your every need is met."

Lady Calista inclined her head slightly, her sharp gaze returning to Kael. "I appreciate your hospitality, Baron. I look forward to our discussions."

"As do I," Kael replied, his voice calm but firm.

At a signal from Sir Aldric, the foot servants began unloading the wagons, carrying chests and supplies into the manor under the watchful eyes of both Kael's and Lady Calista's guards.

The knights of her escort formed a loose perimeter, their hands resting lightly on the hilts of their swords as they watched the proceedings.

Kael remained in the courtyard, his expression thoughtful as he observed the efficiency of her entourage.

Gerald, ever perceptive, leaned in slightly.

"She commands respect wherever she goes," Gerald murmured. "Even her servants move with purpose."

Kael smirked faintly. "She wouldn't be here if she didn't."

As Lady Calista began her ascent toward the manor, her movements graceful and deliberate, Kael's gaze remained fixed on her.

This was no ordinary noblewoman she was a force to be reckoned with, a player in a much larger game.

Every word, every action would shape the outcome of her visit.

But for now, all he could do was wait.

Lady Calista paused at the top of the steps, glancing back briefly before disappearing into the manor.

The sound of her footsteps faded, leaving the courtyard in silence.

Kael's lips curved into a faint smile. The game had begun.