The Shadow Alpha didn't come alone.
Fifty warriors materialized from the darkness, moving like smoke given form. They wore black armor that seemed to drink light, faces hidden behind masks carved from obsidian. No banners, no announcements. Just deadly silence.
The woman leading them removed her mask.
She was younger than the stories suggested, maybe thirty, with silver-streaked black hair and eyes that reflected no color at all. Her presence made the air feel thicker, harder to breathe.
"Reign of Glaciara." Her voice was smooth as poison. "The exile who became a queen. How inspiring."
Reign's hand went to her weapon. Behind her, both armies tensed. "You're a long way from your territory, Shadow Alpha."
"Am I?" The woman smiled. "I thought borders had dissolved. Isn't that what this
