The feast was loud, warm, and full of light.Bonfires burned in the center of the gathering grounds. Tables were lined with roasted meats, fruits, and sweet breads. Laughter echoed through the air. Children ran between the legs of warriors, and music played from flutes and drums.

It was everything a celebration should be.

But Elder Thorne didn’t smile.

He moved through the crowd slowly, watching faces, listening to whispers. Everyone seemed… relaxed. Like the tension of the last few days had ...