Sebastian’s POV
Before the first light of dawn, I walked the length of my barracks. The air was cool, and the torches I passed burned steadily, flickering against the rough stone walls. Each warrior slept on a simple cot, their heads resting on folded cloaks. On the tables by their beds were swords, daggers, and small pouches of healing salve. The scent of iron and sweat lingered in the room, remnants of yesterday’s training.
I ran a hand along the hilt of my own sword, the memory of its sharp weight grounding me. "Soon," I thought, "Crimson Moon will kneel."
I moved through the narrow aisle between cots until I reached the edge of the hall where my lieutenants stood guard. Each wore the dark cloak of my army: heavy fabric cut to hide their faces, leaving only their eyes visible. They n
