The morning sun rose over Haven, casting long shadows across the village square. William stood at the edge of the healing house, watching the eastern road. The Rust was gone—truly gone this time. The expedition had destroyed the heart of the infection, and the black crystals had crumbled to dust. But something else was coming. Something he couldn't name.
Elara came to stand beside him. "You've been watching the road all morning."
"Something doesn't feel right."
"What do you mean?"
"I don't know. But I feel it. A storm is coming."
---
The messenger arrived at noon.
He rode hard, his horse lathered, his face pale with exhaustion. He carried a letter sealed with the Free Council's mark. William broke the seal and read.
William Draven,
The Free Council has convened. We have received w
