The massive iron-reinforced gates of the Neutral Citadel groaned as they swung inward, the heavy stone scraping against the gravel courtyard.

Nila rode at the head of the column, her fingers gripping the leather reins of her black mare. Beside her, Kaelen sat high in his saddle, his steel-lined doublet catching the pale afternoon light, his golden eyes scanning the high stone balconies of the fortress. Behind them, forty vanguard warriors of the Up Pack rode in perfect, silent formation, their dark gray cloaks snapping in the wind.

The courtyard was packed with delegates from across the northern coalitio. Alphas in heavy furs, high judges in crimson robes, and secondary...