The early morning sun cast dappled shadows across the study in Black Stone Castle.
Raylo closed the copy of *Star Realm Traveler's Notes* in his hands.
"My Lord."
The voice of a Personal Guard sounded from outside the door.
"The leader of a small merchant caravan has arrived outside the castle, asking to see you specifically. He says he brings greetings from your 'old friend,' His Majesty Karachi."
Raylo's eyebrow twitched slightly.
'Karachi is moving faster than I expected.'
"Show him to the side hall. I will be there shortly."
"Yes, my Lord."
Raylo carefully put away the notes and walked over to the window.
In the courtyard, the large white cat transformed from Moonlight was lounging lazily on the lawn, sunbathing. The tip of its tail twitched occasionally, teasing a butterfly that fluttered around it.
Not far away, the Space Young Dragon, Coal Ball, was chasing its own tail.
