Chapter 56. First Blood

The wounded moaned in the great hall, now turned into a makeshift infirmary. Wolves paced among the wounded, offering water, cloth, whispered prayers. The air smelled of blood, sweat, and burning oil.

Selene knelt beside a young warrior, barely more than a boy. His leg was shattered, his breath ragged. She pressed a hand to his brow, whispering words of comfort she wasn’t sure he heard.

Outside, the fortress buzzed with feverish activity. Scouts reported that the enemy had not fled entirely—only regrouped. Fresh banners were spotted along the hills: blood red, gold-tipped spears, green serpents.

Three armies now.

Alaric found her by the gates, his armor stained, his expression grim.

"They’re coming."

Selene wiped the blood from her hands and rose.

"Then let them come."