The wind sweeping across the southern trade road was cold and bitter, carrying whispers from the north. The road had once been lined with banners and bustling caravans. Now, only silence and the faint scent of smoke remained.
Lucas Carter, now Scion of the Roaring King, stood at the head of a small convoy. His cloak fluttered behind him as his eyes scanned the vast horizon. The journey to the Council of Beasts had begun.
Kaela rode beside him, Thunderfang keeping a steady pace. Elira followed, her bow resting across her lap as Luna padded alongside their cart of supplies. Malrick was at the rear, mumbling about faulty travel glyphs and limited ink.
"Anything?" Kaela asked.
Lucas narrowed his gaze. "No signs of ambush. But something's watching."
Elira nodded grimly. "I feel it too."
