Morning came slowly over Bloodpine Ridge.
Ash drifted with the snow.
Damian stood at the edge of the ruined field, overlooking the burned siege engines and broken standards. The scent of smoke clung to everything.
Behind him, scouts returned from their sweep—bearing more than expected.
“My lord," said Captain Ren, breathless. “We found this in Varrick's command tent."
He handed Damian a bundle of scrolls. Bloodstained. Sealed not with Varrick's serpent—but with a new sigil.
A black sun inside a twisted fang.
Damian froze. “I've seen this before."
“So have I," came Katherine's voice from behind.
She stood in the tent's shadow, pale but upright, eyes burning despite her wounds.
Damian turned quickly. “You should be resting."
She stepped forward. “That symbol—it was in one of the f
