The next day, after a lengthy rest, the group convened in the war room. The war room in Eclipse Moon’s citadel was lit only by firelight and the pale glow of dawn creeping through arrow-slits. The air still carried the iron scent of blood from the battlefield outside. Jackson, Lilith, Mia and Lucas sat in a tense half-circle. Tension hung thick, Marcus’s disapproval of Selene still echoing. Mia shifted, regret etching her face for yesterday’s sharpness.
Marcus stood by the hearth, shoulders rigid. King Torren leaned against the stone wall, arms folded, silver eyes watchful.
Jackson cleared his throat first. “I’m sorry we kept the journey to the Whispering Forest and Mia’s visions from you both. We needed answers.”
“You are right to apologize,” Torren’s voice cut like a blade. “You are t
