The final plan was set in motion.
Aria stood at the war table, studying the map spread across its surface. Marrow's markings traced the approach route, the weak point on the eastern wall, the extraction path. Everything was in place. Everything was ready. Three days until they moved against Thessaly's heart.
Three days, she thought. Three days until everything changes.
The baby moved inside her, a small flutter against her palm. She pressed her hand to her belly, feeling the familiar rhythm of new life. This child would be born into a world that was finally safe. That was what they were fighting for.
Xavier appeared beside her, his shoulder brushing hers. "The Council is adjourning. Everyone knows their role."
She looked up at him. "It feels different this time."
"Different how?"
"B
