That night, King Edward did not rest.
Orders were sent out one after another. Fast horses left the royal city in all directions.
"Search every road leading to Lowe Pass," Edward commanded. "Check every village, every inn, every river crossing. I want to know where Prince Ernest disappeared."
Spies were dispatched quietly. Trusted captains were given sealed letters. Even merchants traveling north were to be questioned.
King Edward did not believe that a living person could disappear without a trace, especially since no news reached the royal city until the group arrived at Lowe Pass.
At the same time, Edward prepared another message.
The court gathered as the decree was written.
"By royal command," the scribe read aloud, "the Duke of Ironhaven is ordered to lower his banner at once. He is to release General Robert and his men immediately and allow them to march back to the royal city without delay."
Edward's voice was cold.
