The morning mist clung to the trees like ghostly fingers as Elizabeth stepped outside the High Council’s ancient hall. The air was cool and damp, charged with a tension that set her nerves on edge. Around her, the city was beginning to stir pack members gathering, warriors sharpening blades, and messengers darting through the streets with hurried steps.
Today would change everything.
Lucien appeared at her side, his golden hair still tousled from sleep but his amber eyes sharp and alert. "The scouts have returned," he said in a low voice. "The Nightfangs are on the move. They’ll reach the outer borders by nightfall."
Elizabeth nodded, her fingers brushing the hilt of Solbrand at her waist. The blade seemed to hum with anticipation, almost as if it sensed the battle to come. "And Selene?
