Chapter 54. Storms Yet to Come

The night after Selene’s coronation passed in a fragile, aching peace, one born more of exhaustion than certainty. When dawn came, it brought reality crashing back with it.

A scout burst into the great hall where Selene and her council were gathering. Corin was young, fleet-footed, and sharp-eyed, and he looked as though he had run the entire way without stopping.

“Riders,” he gasped. “From the east. Banners unknown. They’re approaching fast.”

Selene rose from her seat at the head of the long, battered table, her newly forged crown catching the pale morning light.

“How many?” she asked.

“At least fifty,” Corin replied. “All armed.”

A ripple of unease passed through the hall. Garron frow