The hush broke the instant Veylen's shadow moved past the threshold. As if the walls themselves had collapsed beneath the strain of conflict, the clang of steel and the screams of wolves flooded into the council chamber.

Elaria’s blood roared in her ears. Her hand still burned where Draven’s grip steadied her, but her father’s memory burned hotter. Veylen’s words had cut deep—snuffing out the fire of your father’s heart—and the echo of them lingered like poison.

She jerked free ...