The wind shrieked like a warning across the ramparts.
Alvin's boots hit the stone floor hard as he burst into the courtyard.
“She's gone," Halden said breathlessly, clutching his bleeding arm. “Captain Draik took her. Rode out ten minutes ago."
Alvin's world narrowed to a pinpoint of rage.
“Which direction?"
“North—toward Frostfall Pass."
Alvin didn't hesitate. “Saddle the black mare. Now."
**
Snow lashed his face as he rode through the gates, cloak whipping behind him like a torn banner. Three scouts flanked him, barely keeping pace.
The pass was narrow—ice cliffs on both sides, death below.
And up ahead, torchlight.
Draik.
He saw Frey slumped over a saddle, shackled in rune-ink chains, lips bloodied. A guard rode beside her.
Alvin drew his sword.
“DRAIK!" he bellowed, voice
