Chapter 24 — Shattered Oaths

The last rays of dusk clung stubbornly to the horizon as the Bloodmoon war host assembled at the gates. The air was cold and sharp, carrying the scent of iron and pine sap. War banners snapped in the rising wind—black and silver, the sigil of the moon, the mark of vengeance.

Selene rode at the head of the column, the Lunaris Blade strapped across her back. Its cold weight was a promise—and a warning. Around her, warriors adjusted armor and tightened grips on spears and swords. Every step of the horses’ hooves echoed with the certainty of what lay ahead.

Kieran rode beside her, his expression a mask of focus. In his eyes, the shadow of the man who’d once vowed never to stand beside another Alpha—now unwavering at her side.

As they approached the eastern pass, scouts on swift-footed wolves emerged from the gloom. One dismounted and bowed low. “Alpha,” he said, breathless. “Lucian’s forces have begun their push. The vanguard is harrying the roads, but… it’s a feint. His real army li