Chapter 54. Storms Yet to Come

The night after Selene's coronation passed in a fragile, aching peace. But dawn brought reality crashing back.

A scout—a young wolf named Corin, fleet-footed and sharp-eyed—burst into the great hall where Selene and her council were gathering.

"Riders," he gasped. "From the east. Banners unknown. They approach fast."

Selene rose from her seat at the head of the long, battered table, her crown glinting in the pale morning light.

"How many?"

"At least fifty," Corin said. "Armed."

Murmurs rippled through the hall. Garron frowned deeply, his old fingers tapping an uneven beat against the stone tabletop.

"They could be remnants of the old Houses," Alaric said, his hand instinctively dropping to his sword hilt.

Selene's gaze sharpened. "Or worse—mercenari