The sky over the war camp was painted in shades of ash and flame as the horn sounded at dawn.
Not for an attack.
But for a visitor.
An envoy.
Kael was the first to reach Ivy’s tent.
“A rider approaches from the east,” he said, voice tight with suspicion. “Alone. White flag raised. Shadowlands crest.”
Ivy was already pulling on her battle armor.
“Send word to Liora and Jax. I want them at my side.”
“And Ember?” he asked.
Ivy paused. “Keep her guarded. She’s not ready for what this is.”
The envoy rode in just after sunrise.
She was tall, cloaked, and masked in silver.
Her horse was black as coal, with eyes that shimmered like moonlight.
The moment she passed through the boundary runes, half the camp drew weapons.
But Ivy held up a hand.
“Let her speak.”
The woman dismounted s
