Gael drew the horse to a stop. His hands were steady, but his stomach twisted with nerves. "I have a message for Lord Kaizar," he said clearly. "I have been sent by Queen Syris to deliver it personally.."
The guards exchanged a glance. "You cannot enter without permission," the second one said. "You must hand the message over. We will see that it reaches him safely."
Gael shook his head, lips pressed tight. "I'm on strict instructions. I cannot give it to anyone else. If you do not trust me, you may follow me inside. I am not armed. I will not resist. But I must deliver it myself."
The older guard narrowed his eyes, studying the small boy on the horse. "You are very young for such a task.." he said carefully. "And this is no ordinary message. How do we know you can be trusted?"
