The tension inside Drukbane began to grow in quiet, visible ways. Wolves howled restlessly every night, their cries sharp and uneven. The moon, when it rose, carried a faint red tint that made everyone uneasy. Even the strongest warriors whispered about the Blood Moon returning too soon.

Draven had become distant. He spent long hours in the council room but rarely spoke. His eyes looked colder, and his voice carried less patience. He dismissed several meetings halfway through, handing his ...