Wind howled over the fortress summit.
Noah stepped onto the frostbitten platform, sword drawn, cloak torn. Across from him, Severin stood tall, crimson runes pulsing across his armor.
“So it ends here," Severin said, smiling coldly. “You gave up a kingdom for a girl who can barely speak."
“She's louder than you'll ever be," Noah replied.
Behind Severin, two guards dragged out a prisoner—Rowan, bruised, bleeding.
“He wouldn't tell me where your little bride sleeps," Severin said. “But I've learned to hurt slowly."
Noah's grip tightened. “Let him go."
Severin raised a hand. “Or what? You'll fight me? Steel against spell?"
“I don't need magic," Noah growled. “Just purpose."
Their swords met with a crash.
---
Below, in the shattered halls, Sera dodged a lunging blade—Aelya, her perf
