Chapter 59. The Flame Sleeps

The hidden grove in the Vale Territory, the secret heart of the Ashen Reign, was bathed in the faint, desolate light of the New Moon. It was an hour past midnight, and the air was cold, damp, and utterly silent. The ground, still bearing the faint imprint of the violent spiritual battles fought here, was the site of the final, crucial act of the prophecy.

Neriah stood at the center, alone. She wore the clothes of the Queen—simple, dark leather that afforded no protection but demanded absolute respect. She was mortal, and she was cold, the constant absence of the Ashen Flame an aching emptiness in her chest.

Caius approached slowly, carrying a small, heavy iron box and a single, unlit silver candle. He was fully healed, his Alpha presence overwhelming the quiet grove, but his focus was entirely on her. He placed the items at her feet.

“Kael has the full garrison patrolling the perimeter,” Caius stated, his voice low. “The Order of the Helios is still scattered, deal