The northern wind carried whispers of unease as Leon and Nora rode through the smoking ruins of the Council Pavilion. Snow clung in soot-streaked patches to fractured columns and collapsed porticos, monuments to a betrayed people. Behind them, Elsa Whitlock—now Acting Chancellor—stood beneath the newly raised Banner of Unity, quill in hand, as lords and envoys assembled on splintered benches. Her composure was steel, but fatigue shadowed her bright eyes.
A herald's horn sounded. Elsa lifted a hand, calling the assembly to silence.
“Lords of the border baronies," she began, voice unwavering in the chill air, “on behalf of Sovereigns Leon Seres and Nora Awen, I pledge renewal of treaties founded on mutual respect. Let not fear of the unknown eclipse our shared destiny."
Murmurs rose among
