The journey to the frontier had changed many things.
While Prince Alistair and Prince Julian earned the loyalty of soldiers and villagers alike, another battle was unfolding hundreds of miles away.
It was quieter.
Far more dangerous.
It was fought with whispers instead of swords.
Within the marble halls of Ravenswatch.
⸻
Morning sunlight poured through the stained-glass windows of the Royal Council Chamber.
The nine council seats were occupied once more.
King Aldren sat upon the Raven Throne, his weathered hands resting calmly upon its carved arms.
Unlike previous meetings, however…
One chair remained empty.
Lord Malrec.
No explanation had been given.
No one questioned it.
Instead, Chancellor Sterling rose to address the chamber.
“Reports from the eastern frontier have arri
