The next morning, the den’s war room smelled of parchment and burned wax. The guardians crowded around the table again, maps stretched wide, markers pinned into the parchment where towers and patrol routes had been drawn out in detail.
The only empty space belonged to Fen. He had left at first light, slipping into the Black Woods to consult with the elder mages. The decision hadn’t been Eric’s alone; every one of them had agreed. If anyone could find truth hidden in dusty scrolls or whispered warnings, it was Fen.
“Once he’s back, we’ll know for sure if these maps are even close to right,” Emily said quietly, tracing her finger across one of the marked towers.
Eric grunted in agreement, but before he could add more, the heavy door pushed open.
Kaelen entered with Kairos at his shoulder
