Selene

The Shadowfang great hall thrummed with anticipation, its black stone walls swallowing the torchlight, casting jagged shadows across the long tables. The air was heavy with the scent of roasted venison, mead, and the sharp tang of wolf musk was a reminder that this fortress, for all its grandeur, was a den of predators. I stood in a side chamber adjusting the leather belt of my ceremonial attire, feeling the weight of the silver dagger at my hip grounding me. Tonight was no mere feast. Kaelen was coming, and I needed him to see me strong.

Draven stood nearby, his black leather tunic holding on for dear life as...