KARINA
Tiny specks of frost coated the dark, heavy bark of the ancient pines encircling the hidden staging area.
Located just three miles outside the imposing iron gates of the Elder Council’s mountain estate, the biting wind cut straight through the heavy woolen cloak hiding my face. I adjusted the thick leather gloves covering my cracked knuckles, inhaling the sharp, frozen air to clear my mind.
Kole approached from the tree line, his shoulders shedding a dusting of white snow.
"The perimeter patrols are shifting to their daytime positions," Kole said, keeping his voice a low rumble. "We move in five minutes."
"Understood," I replied, double-checking the hidden silver dagger strapped to my thigh beneath the heavy red silk of my gown. "We present a unified rogue front, secure a seat
