The clang of chains echoed across the training yard as foreign dignitaries arrived—envoys from Riverbend, Frostpeak, and Dawncrest—all eager to see Ironclaw's new strength firsthand.
Ethan stood on the balcony above, flanked by warriors in full armor. Below, a banquet was spread—roasted deer, seasoned roots, polished goblets. But every eye was drawn to the post behind him.
Caroline stood chained there, wrists bound, hair tangled, lips bloodied. Her dress was the same one from the feast—now tattered and stained.
A Dawncrest envoy leaned toward his peer. “This is your new alliance?"
Ethan raised his hand.
“She is not Ironclaw," he declared. “She is its warning."
The envoys fell silent.
“She betrayed my people, cost us lives," Ethan said coldly. “Now she serves as a lesson. To enemies.
