The morning sun rose slowly over Ravenswatch, painting the ancient fortress in shades of amber and gold. The towers, once silent after years of political unrest, stirred with new life. Servants hurried through the courtyards carrying supplies. Stable hands saddled horses adorned with the royal crest of House Vane. Soldiers inspected wagons loaded with provisions, while noble banners fluttered proudly in the crisp autumn breeze.
The kingdom had awakened with anticipation.
Today, the First Trial of Ravens would begin.
Inside the Grand Hall, every seat of the Royal Council was occupied.
Seven towering pillars supported the vaulted ceiling, each carved with ravens whose stone eyes seemed to watch every soul beneath them. Sunlight streamed through stained-glass windows depicting the kings a
