The morning sun broke through the storm clouds for the first time in days.
Its pale golden light spilled across the snow-covered courtyard of Ravenswatch, transforming the frozen training grounds into a sea of glittering white.
It was quiet.
Peacefully quiet.
No whispers.
No council meetings.
No conspiracies.
For the first time since arriving at Ravenswatch…
The fortress breathed.
⸻
Alistair stood at the edge of the training yard, fastening the leather straps around his wrist.
His body still ached.
The poison remained in his blood, a silent reminder that recovery was far from complete.
Every deep breath burned faintly in his lungs.
Every sudden movement drained his strength more quickly than before.
Sir Roland noticed.
“You should still be resting.”
Alistair smiled.
“If I
