Dawn came red over the capital, streaking the sky like blood across a blade. Kaelin stood on the balcony of the Queen’s Wing, her fingers curled around the stone balustrade. Below, the city stirred, oblivious to the declaration that would shake its foundations.
Theron joined her, silent at first. They stood side by side, two sovereigns whose kingdom now faced its first true c***k.
“The west has fallen,” he said finally.
Kaelin shook her head. “No. It’s been stolen. Corrupted. But not lost.”
A soft knock interrupted them. Mira stepped in, her armor only half-buckled.
“We’ve received more reports. Alric’s declaration has emboldened others. The Northern Vale and two eastern villages have expressed support.”
Kaelin narrowed her eyes. “So it spreads.”
“They’re calling themselves the Sove
