Sleep evaded those who felt destiny pressing close.

The Ashwood retreat bought us three hours. Three precious hours to tend wounds, repair defenses, and prepare for what everyone knew was coming.

I found Darius on the northern rampart as sunset painted the sky red. Blood-colored light seemed fitting.

"You should rest," he said without turning.

"So should you."

"Can't. Every time I close my eyes, I see how this could go wrong." He gestured at the horizon where Bloodmoon forces were setting ...