The wind that night didn't just blow; it screamed, a jagged, freezing thing that tore through the castle courtyards and rattled the bones of the fortress itself.
Servants scurried like frightened rats through the corridors, heads bowed, lanterns flickering in their trembling hands.Inside his chambers,
Commander Vaelith stood by the window.
He watched the darkness swallow Valdren, his reflection in the glass a ghostly silhouette behind the silver mask that covered the lower half of his face.
A sharp knock broke the silence."
Enter."Captain Kaelen stepped in, saluting briskly.
"The evening reports, Commander."
Vaelith didn't turn.
He didn't even glance at the parchments Kaelen held out.
His voice was low, a rumble that vibrated in the quiet room."
For tonight's supper, have it
