FAYE
The sun was already high by the time I stepped outside. The entire western field of Blood Crescent territory had transformed overnight—canvas tents rising, tables stacked in rows, lanterns being tested along the walkway, and warriors moving equipment like we were preparing for a royal coronation.
Well… in a way, we were.
Alexander’s Ring of Fire victory ceremony wasn’t exactly a small affair.
I spotted Irene instantly. She stood in the middle of the field, arms crossed, brow arched, watching the event planner like she was judging an amateur about to ruin her entire bloodline. The poor planner’s hands shook as she directed her assistants to adjust the drapes on the main stage.
I sighed and walked toward her.
“Irene,” I called, “you’re terrorizing the staff.”
She didn’t look at m
