The first meeting of the Free Council was held in the great hall at the heart of the mountains.
William sat among the representatives from the free communities—farmers, healers, builders, traders. They had come from Veridias, from the eastern valleys, from the mountain villages. They had come to build something new.
Seraphina sat across from them, her silver mask gleaming in the torchlight. The other members of the Shadow Council sat beside her, their faces hidden, their hands folded.
"We are gathered here today to discuss the future," Seraphina said. Her voice was cold, precise, controlled. "The agreement has been signed. The alliance has been formed. But words on paper mean nothing without action."
William stood up. "Then let us act."
"What do you propose?"
"I propose we begin with
