Morning sunlight spilled across the silver towers of Ravenswatch, painting the ancient fortress in shades of gold. From the highest battlements, the banners of House Vane fluttered proudly in the cool spring breeze, their black ravens standing against fields of silver.
The castle had only just recovered from the celebrations marking the successful completion of the First and Second Trials of Ravens.
The laughter had faded.
The music had ended.
Now, anticipation hung over the capital once more.
Servants hurried through the corridors carrying sealed scrolls and polished ceremonial armour. Courtiers whispered in quiet groups beneath vaulted ceilings, their voices filled with speculation.
Another trial was coming.
No one knew what form it would take.
Not even the princes.
⸻
Inside th
