Blades in the Dark
Smoke curled through the shattered archways of Borderhold's eastern gate as Vera Lanst and Yurian Helios emerged from the Grand Hall, robes replaced by riding leathers and cloaks threaded with wolf fur. The city beyond lay scarred: collapsed scaffolding, overturned carts, and burned gates where Sarkan's mercenaries had struck in their desperation. Yet the people gathered—wolf packs, militia, and citizens alike—mingled in wary clusters, tending fires and clearing rubble.
A herald's horn sounded. Vera and Yurian halted beneath the blood-red banner that still fluttered above the gate. Captain Bren rode up, visor raised. “Your Majesties," he called, voice echoing. “Sarkan's forces regroup at the Iron Ridge Fortress. They hold Grayrock loyalists hostage, threatening executi
