Later that evening, in the war room…
“The Ironfangs have repositioned,” Garran reported. “They’ve abandoned their usual post and are gathering along the East Ravine.”
Rayne frowned. “Too close for comfort.”
“Too coordinated to be coincidence,” Garran muttered. “They’re planning something.”
“Let them,” Rayne said, rising. “If they want a fight, they’ll get one.”
But even as she spoke the words, a strange unease crept into her chest. Not fear. Foreboding.
She glanced toward the empty seat at the end of the table.
Cain wasn’t present.
He’d excused himself, claiming a scouting matter.
Liar, she thought.
Rayne stood. “Double the outer sentries. And summon the guards. I want our best warriors ready to move by nightfall.”
The elders blinked.
“You want to move first?”
“No,” she said,
