The moon, swollen and red, climbed above Ironfang Keep's battlements like a harbinger of fate. Elena Moonsong stood on the main tower balcony, silver cloak billowing, her heartbeat synchronized with its pulsing glow. Below her, Kade Ironfang barked orders to seal every gate and arm every sentinel.
“Double the patrols on the eastern wall," Kade commanded, voice sharp. “No one enters or leaves without my say."
Elena watched guards slam iron bars across portcullises. “They'll be here soon," she murmured, eyes tracing shadows moving beyond the outer bailey.
Kade joined her at the railing. He removed his helm, forehead creased with worry. “Varyn's Sentinels march on us under the guise of treason trials. They plan to arrest me at dawn."
Elena turned to him. “Then we must break their plans be
