The first scream shattered the dawn.
A lone border scout burst through the eastern gates, blood streaking his face, eyes wild with terror.
“They’re here!” he choked. “Three packs. Maybe four. They’re crossing the river!”
Chaos detonated across Nightfall.
War horns blared, low and thunderous, echoing through the valley. Wolves surged from their dens, shifting mid-run, claws ripping into stone as they took defensive formation.
Lucien stepped onto the balcony overlooking the courtyard just as the alarms peaked.
Pain tore through his chest.
His vision swam.
He forced himself upright, gripping the cold stone railing until the world steadied.
Kael was instantly at his side. “You should be in bed.”
Lucien bared his teeth. “And let them smell my weakness?”
Kael’s jaw tightened. “They al
