The battle in the valley ended without a victor.
As night fell, both armies withdrew to prepare for the war everyone knew was coming.
The palace was unusually quiet.
No laughter echoed through the halls.
No music drifted from the banquet rooms.
Even the servants spoke in whispers, as though they feared disturbing the fragile peace.
Kaelira stood alone on her balcony, watching the moon rise over the mountains.
Tomorrow, thousands of people would march into battle because of the crown she wore.
Tomorrow, many of them would never come home.
She closed her eyes, trying to steady the weight pressing against her heart.
A familiar voice broke the silence.
“May I have this dance?”
She turned.
Ronan stood in the doorway.
He looked exhausted, the mark hidden beneath the collar of his c
