The column came to a halt in the courtyard. Ryn dismounted in one fluid motion, and Cael finally got a clear look at him.

Devastatingly handsome didn't begin to cover it. Ryn Alde looked like he'd been carved by a master sculptor who specialized in dangerous perfection. High cheekbones, strong jaw, an aristocratic nose, and eyes that were indeed steel gray, sharp and assessing, taking in everything with a soldier's tactical awareness.

He was also taller than Cael had expected. At least six-two, with the kind of powerful build that came from a lifetime of combat training. His movements had a controlled grace that spoke of deadly competence.

And when those steel gray eyes locked onto Cael, he felt like he was being evaluated by a predator deciding if he was prey or threat.

"Lord Ashford." Ryn's voice was deep, controlled, and completely devoid of warmth. He inclined his head precisely the appropriate amount for greeting a count, no more, no less. "I am Lord Ryn Alde, Commander of the Royal Knights, representative of Duke Theron Alde. I've been assigned to monitor your estate's progress and ensure compliance with tax agreements."

"Lord Ryn." Lady Mavena stepped forward before Cael could respond, executing a perfect curtsy. "Welcome to Ashford Manor. We're honored by your presence and ready to cooperate fully with your inspection."

Ryn's eyes shifted to her briefly, then moved across the rest of the family before returning to Cael. "Lord Sarek Ashford, I presume?"

"Yes." Cael forced himself to meet those intimidating eyes directly. First rule of dealing with predators: don't show fear. "Welcome to Ashford. I hope your journey was pleasant."

"It was adequate." Ryn's gaze didn't waver. "I've read Assessor Rell's report. He was quite complimentary about your recent improvements. I'm here to verify his assessment and determine whether your progress is sustainable."

The implication was clear: Assessor Rell might have been impressed, but Ryn Alde would not be easily fooled. He was here to find the truth, whatever it might be.

"Of course," Cael said, keeping his voice steady. "I'd be happy to show you everything we've accomplished and explain our plans for continued development."

Something flickered in Ryn's eyes too quick to identify. "I look forward to it. But first, my knights require accommodation and the horses need tending."

"Already arranged," Cael assured him. "Rooms have been prepared for you and your men, and our stable master is ready to care for your horses."

Ryn nodded curtly. "Then we'll settle in and begin the inspection this afternoon. I expect full access to all estate records, construction sites, and personnel."

"You'll have it."

"Good." Ryn turned to issue orders to his knights, and Cael finally allowed himself to breathe.

That had been like facing down a beautiful, deadly storm. Ryn Alde was every bit as intimidating as the novel had suggested, cold, controlled, and absolutely confident in his authority.

And Cael had four days, maybe more, to convince this man that his impossible knowledge and revolutionary projects weren't a threat to the kingdom.

Four days to fool the one person who supposedly couldn't be fooled.

Cael watched Ryn give precise, efficient orders to his knights, every movement controlled and purposeful. A weapon in human form, just as the novel had described.

But as Cael watched, he caught a brief moment when Ryn's expression shifted, just a flicker, barely noticeable. When one of his knights made a joke and the others laughed, Ryn's eyes softened almost imperceptibly before the cold mask snapped back into place.

Human. Underneath all that control and training, Ryn Alde was human.

Maybe, just maybe, that was something Cael could work with.

If he was very, very careful.