Lucian had barely begun enjoying a rare moment of peace when Elaine stormed into his office, looking unusually grim.

  "My lord, we have received a letter from the infamous Mercenary King, Varian Blackthorn."

  Lucian blinked. "Who?"

  Elaine placed the letter in front of him. "The most feared sellsword in the empire. He commands an army of mercenaries larger than most noble houses. He… wants to visit Duskwatch."

  This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

  Lucian rubbed his temples. "Why?"

  Dorian, standing nearby, cleared his throat nervously. "Word of our recent economic success and militia reforms has apparently caught his attention. He seems to believe we are a rising power."

  Lucian groaned. "Of course he does. And I assume rejecting his visit would offend him?"

  Elaine nodded. "Deeply."

  Lucian exhaled slowly. "Fine. Let’s just hope this doesn’t spiral into another disaster."

  Dorian pinched the bridge of his nose. "My lord, that is exactly what always happens."